The Advocate, Issue 20 - Mar. 4, 2016

March 4, 2016

the

advocate Independent Student Voice of MHCC

Volume 51 Issue 20

Mt. Hood’s got talent PAGE 5

New Subaru partnership PAGE 3

Basketball says farewell PAGE 8

REELING IN

THE

BIG ONE

“Sports were created to alleviate that natural aggression.”

MHCC hopes to capture a ‘Salmon Safe’ certification, and become the first community college in Oregon to do so PAGE 4

- PAGE 2

2 PAGE

OPINION

Editorial

advocate-online.net

Reporting microaggressions bogs down progress A local university has attempted to fix an habitual problem with some unorthodox methods, but is it just a drop in a pond?

T

he University of Portland’s recent decision to ask students to report “instances of discomfort,” or microagressions (a term used to describe phrasing typically not meant to be harmful but actually is, typically directed at minorities), left the Advocate staff puzzled. After all, if these are microaggressions, what distinguishes them from a simply awkward or uncomfortable exchange?

Some such phrases have become easily recognizable lately, i.e.

“You speak really good English,” but language can be combined, and interpreted in many ways, regard-

less of its initial intention. That’s not to apologize for microagressions; what we’re wondering about here is the policy. Does the University of Portland really think it’s a better method to write down every uncomfortable verbal exchange on campus, and tackle them all individually before it would have its students take a cultural relevancy course, which is currently not required there?

It’s understandable as to how the school could get to this point, though, located in the heart of one of the whitest cities on Earth, UP has had some ugly racially

“This is a Band-Aid on top of a hit-andrun victim. Only the symptoms, and not the root causes are being addressed” charged encounters lately. These include hurling a Mexican flag at a Latina student during the school’s “Latin Night,” which was

essentially a pep rally were students wore stereotypical Mexican garb (ponchos, sombreros, maracas, etc.). This situation needs to be improved, and it’s commendable that the school took a step in the right direction. But exactly how do officials plan on enforcing this, and how do they determine what a microaggression is, as opposed to a run-of-the-mill blurt from a weird/rude person?

This is a Band-Aid on top of a hit-and-run victim. Only the symptoms, and not the root causes, are being addressed.

To instill a sense of community,

there needs to be common ground for everyone to join in, and while reporting these instances makes the end goal of a safe haven more feasible, does it really help immediately if students are nervously watching each one of their phrases instead of sympathizing with their fellow students?

Especially if these instances go uncorrected – then these conversations become uglier for both persons involved, and to what end? A slap on the wrist?

Sports issue checks and balances, prevent chaos

Clay Vitale

the advocate True competitiveness is within us all. It lies in wait, like a caged animal, until some asshole wanders by and pokes it with a stick. That provocation is how champions are made.

I, like most Midwest-American men, have a love affair with sports.

Baseball is so ingrained in my

genetic code, my DNA might as well have double helix polymers made of red stitching. I don’t limit myself to baseball, however, because if there is a winner and loser involved, chances are it’ll pique my interest.

The sheer desire to witness the rise and fall of two separate parties is an interesting case. It isn’t restricted to human beings, or even animals for that matter. Competition is the most primal of instincts derived from the will to survive. When an invasive weed grows too close to a rose bush, what does that thorny bush do? Spears the weed right in the jugular, that’s what.

Sports were created to alleviate that natural aggression. A combative outlet essentially prevents strangers from beating one another in the streets with car antennas and

traffic cones. Have you watched “The Kingsmen”? Yeah, hostility would ultimately reduce the world’s population to a tribal colony of bloodthirsty sociopaths.

While amusement can be had from taking in the World Bowling Tour, some would find it much more gratifying to watch one human being mount another (keep your mind out of the gutter, you filthy animal) and deliver merciless hammerfists to the side of his or her opponent’s temple. Mixed Martial Arts is the appropriate outlet here, where the athletes are remastered Roman gladiators from the early anno domini years, and the octagon their Colosseum, minus a tiger or two. If teams sports are more your thing (and with the NFL becoming the nation’s most watched tickle fight)

hockey would be your nonstop-shop for action. Those with a penchant for violence can always get their fix with a good ol’ brawl on the ice. Nothing can put you on the edge of your seat like seeing a head coach look toward

Web Photo

Former Blues’ enforcer Cam Janssen gets “facewashed” by former Wild Brad Staubitz

his bench, his team down 3-0 in the first period, and simply give a nod to his enforcer, as if to say, “Go time.” Goons are rostered for the sole reason of changing the tempo of the game in the strategic manner of

dropping gloves and whooping ass.

You know who also whooped ass? “Old Blood and Guts” himself, the fine General George S. Patton.

This American hero was known for his military leadership and incredibly vulgar speeches. He was not about the bullshit, like when he said, “Battle is the most magnificent competition in which a human being can indulge. It brings out all that is best; it removes all that is base. All men are afraid in battle.

The coward is the one who lets his fear overcome his sense of duty.

Duty is the essence of manhood.”

Eat that, prissy pants. Now go put on your war paint, thump your chest and get back to your roots... or simply indulge yourself in sport and get your pugnacity out in a more culturally acceptable way.

the advocate Editor-in-Chief Adam Elwell

Sports Editor Clay Vitale

Associate Editor Hayden Hunter

Graphic Designers Ayla Buckner Cody Holcombe

Arts+Entertainment Editor Ivy Davis News Editor Gloria Saepharn

Photo Editor Nick Pelster Opinion Editor Adam Elwell

Public Relations Manager Emily Wintringham

Video Team Members Kristina Dawn

Features Editor Jon Fuccillo

Ad Manager Joseph Frantz

Video Editor Chuck Masi

Copy Editor Quincy Smith Staff Writers Glenn Dyer Nicole Kaadi

Monique Mallari Konah Nimo Candice Sandland Beau Blunck Jordan Vawter Web Editor Matana McIntire Advisers Howard Buck Dan Ernst

Front cover by Cody Holcombe

E-mail: advocatt@mhcc.edu Phone: 503-491-7250 www.advocate-online.net #mhccadvocate Mt. Hood Community College 26000 SE Stark Street Gresham, Oregon 97030

The Advocate encourages readers to share their opinion by letters to the editor and guest columns for publication.

All submissions must be typed and include the writer’s name and contact information. Contact information will not be printed unless requested. Original copies will not be returned to the author. The Advocate will not print any unsigned submission. Letters to the editor should not exceed 300 words and guest columns should not exceed 600. The decision to publish is at the discretion of the editorial board. The Advocate reserves the right to edit for style, punctuation, grammar and length. Please bring submissions to The Advocate in Room 1369, or e-mail them to advocatt@mhcc.edu. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Monday the week of publication to be considered for print. Opinions expressed in columns, letters to the editor or advertisements are the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Advocate or MHCC.

NEWS

March 4, 2016

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Subaru partners with Mt. Hood automotive program Joseph Frantz the advocate

Portland’s favorite car company (by all appearances), Subaru, has come to Mt Hood.

The Japanese automotive giant has partnered with MHCC’s automotive technology program in an attempt to establish the company’s new Subaru University program in the Pacific Northwest.

Couple this news with the Chrysler Mopar College Automotive Program (MCAP) and it’s no wonder that MHCC’s automotive training program keeps getting students where they want to be: employed.

The process of bringing Subaru U to Mt. Hood is still in the early stages. This will be only the fourth program of its kind in the country for Subaru, so both parties are still working out the particulars of this new relationship. Some equipment and technical manuals, including four Subaru motors and a transmission, have already made their way to the campus. The program is currently accepting applications and classes will start in the upcoming fall term.

Subaru U will have the exact same layout as the college’s current MCAP and Import automotive cohort programs. It, too, will offer students the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience and

Photos by Nick Pelster

TOP and BOTTOM: Subaru of America is building a 600,000-square-foot car parts distribution center off of Northeast Hogan Drive. The company has also partnered with Mt. Hood Community College’s automotive tech program.

mentor-based training at local automotive dealerships while earning an Applied Science associate degree in automotive technology.

Students interested in the program must apply to a screening process conducted by local automotive dealerships. Once an individual dealership chooses to sponsor a student, he or she will work at that dealership every other school term for the duration of the twoyear program with those work hours counting towards your degree. Once selected, students become employees of the dealership and are expected to make a commitment to that shop.

According to Steve Michener,

the instructor/coordinator for the MCAP/Import cohorts, these sponsorships generally turn into paid positions by the fourth term in

graduates, dating back to 1996. If that’s the case, given the amount of modified Subarus in our parking lot, it’s surprising students aren’t

the program.

Michener went as far as to claim a 100 percent employment rate among new MHCC program

breaking his door down to enroll in the program. In fact, he said, there are more dealer sponsorships available then he has students, for

those willing to travel a few miles west for work.

“We can’t send students fast enough to dealerships in the Portland-Beaverton area,” Michener said. This might reflect the demand for dealership-trained technicians locally, but also could be the result of the relatively small amount of students admitted into the Mt. Hood program each year. In total, the MHCC cohorts consist of only 48 students total, with 24 new applicants making the cut each school year. It’s clear that Subaru of America (subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries in Japan) has made an extensive commitment to the local area, and MHCC is proving to be an integral part of that commitment.

Time will tell if Subaru U experiences the same success as the MCAP and Import programs at Mt. Hood. But, given Subaru’s cult following here and Mt. Hood’s impressive employment/placement rate, this looks a lot like the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

For more information about Subaru U, MCAP, or the Import cohorts, contact Vicki LundmarkTrujillo at 503-491-7470 or Vicki.

Lundmark-Trujillo@mhcc.edu.

Japanese exchange students share cultural day Gloria Saepharn the advocate

Hinamatsuri, also known as Girls’ Day in Japan, was hosted on Wednesday by MHCC’s own Japanese Club and students from our sister school, Ryukoku University, in Kyoto, Japan.

Hinamatsuri is traditionally celebrated on March 3, and is used a means to burn the “bad spirits” from dolls. There was an ancient Japanese custom called “doll floating” in which straw (hina) dolls were put onto a “boat” and sent down a river to the sea. The custom was supposedly intended for the dolls to take the bad spirits or troubles away with them.

The annual campus event offers to “bring Japanese culture to MHCC and introduce people to different kinds of [cultural performances],” said Alicia Morian, Student Organizations Council representative from the Japanese Club. She said the foreign exchange students come to the school to “immerse into our culture”

Photos by Nick Pelster

The calligraphy written by the Japanese exchange students were placed to dry on past issues of The Advocate.

and that “we get to learn a little bit [also], helping them as the Japanese Club, about their culture.”

The event featured sushi, martial arts, activities for students, a kendama (a traditional Japanese toy that has three cups and a spike that fit into the hole of the ball) and people wearing kimonos (women’s robes) and yukatas (men’s robes).

Shinobu Chrisman, field trip coordinator for the Ryukoku program, said the event is planned around the

students’ arrival and the Japanese students show off their calligraphy or whatever they’re good at to introduce their culture to the campus.

Morian said the club tried to cater to the students’ requests to make the event “bigger and better” than last year’s. “They wanted better sushi, so we got the more expensive, better, popular sushis, better drinks, a longer amount of time and more performances,” she said.

Chrisman explained that the

Japanese Club students, along with the Japanese exchange students, taught origami to the Mt. Hood Community College students, faculty and community.

Japanese students stay with American host families while at Mt. Hood, so “that’s where they get all kinds of interaction and learning about American culture. They seem to be enjoying that very much” this year, she said. “It’s good to know different cultures. It broadens your horizon and for Japanese people to understand more about America, and vice-versa.

“The world is becoming more international and global. We need to know that there are other people

out there that you’re not aware of” and to understand and accept cultural differences, she said.

“In America, I want to talk with people, so every day is fun. At Mt. Hood Community College, I can [speak] English. No Japanese is very nice,” said Japanese exchange student, Monami.

The Japanese Club meets 4 to 6 p.m. Thursdays and 1 to 3 p.m.

Fridays in Room 1253. Contact them at: japanclu@mhcc.edu.

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NEWS

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MHCC to become ‘salmon safe’

Mt. Hood plans improvements for Kelly and Beaver Creek uytfygy Mt. Hood plans to seek out a SalmonSafe certification — a potential first for a community college.

MHCC will be working with the Salmon-Safe environmental group, the East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District, the City of Gresham, Intel Labs, Metro, the Sandy River Basin Watershed Council and other organizations to become one of the first institutions in Gresham to provide a safe habitat in which salmon can reproduce.

“This is huge,” said Steve Wise, executive director at Sandy River Basin Watershed Council, referring to the steps the college is taking. Gresham city leaders are all for backing this project because they are currently looking at ways to improve the general water supply, according to Wise.

Hayden Hunter the advocate

“One of their (city) goals was to develop a demonstration campus-scale urban clean water initiative. Enter the college,” he said.

MHCC will have a couple of challenges to hurdle in order to earn the distinction.

Wise said the earthen dam (causeway) on campus provides

a unique challenge for the council and MHCC. The dam blocks water from moving naturally in Kelly Creek. Original campus architects first had an idea of a long bridge, but the college instead went with the dam, quite possibly more cost-effective at the time in the mid-1960s.

Whatever the reason, the fact remains that water flowing along Kelly Creek is 4 to 5 degrees warmer than what is required for

a salmon’s healthy habitat.

Another hurdle MHCC might run into is drainage outfalls. These

“It’s ambitious, it’s complicated, but it’s definitely worth addressing and finding a solution.”

-Steve Wise Executive Director of Sandy River Basin Watershed Council

outfalls are just pipes that spew out all of the water collected on the campus’s surface – runoff from buildings and pavement. Wise said these outfalls pump out more polluted water than the wildlife in these creeks are used to.

What Mt. Hood students should see within the next year is a completely re-vegetated upper Kelly Creek slope, on the piece of land behind the tennis courts and by the Aquatics Center. Wise said

this is the first project the groups will be tackling in their five-year plan to become salmon-safe.

There is also a partially built bioswale – a piece of land designed to reduce pollutants from water runoff - that they plan to complete this year.

“That is an early action opportunity … (among) the things that are ecologically productive, not costly, (are) good and visible demonstrations that the community can see,” Wise said.

This is the first step towards Mt. Hood becoming an ecologically healthy institution, according to Wise. There are other certifications that the council and the institution are already considering so that MHCC can be an environmental “leader in its community,” he said. For instance, Tree Campus USA and Backyard Habitats are being looked at for potential next steps.

The Sandy River Basin Watershed Council has been active since 1995, and has had a presence on Mt. Hood’s campus since 2014. Its main goal is to increase awareness about and to prevent more harm to the ecological system.

The environmental partners are currently working to restore

habitats for native salmon and steelhead in the Sandy River basin. Both Beaver and Kelly Creek enter the Sandy River and contain steelhead and salmon in their waters.

Salmon-Safe is a nonprofit group based in Portland for the past 21 years. It has been involved in many projects to reduce the environmental impacts on rivers containing salmon, primarily fighting pollution. Its stated goal is to extend its range of positive influence in key agricultural and urban watersheds throughout the West Coast range of Pacific salmon species.

Wise hopes to include MHCC classes and students in the campus-related process, especially considering the sciences behind producing a green infrastructure.

Salmon-Safe representatives are scheduled to visit the Gresham campus in April to analyze the grounds and see if the facility is up to standard, then follow up in the future, Wise said. “We will check back over the next few years to see if you have complied.

“It’s ambitious, it’s a little complicated, but it’s definitely worth addressing and finding a solution.”

Fair offers jobs, apprenticeships, opportunities Parkrose Job Fair gives community a chance for better future Companies planning on attending (partial list) • Aflac • City of Portland • FedEx Ground • Fred Meyer Stores • Holiday Inn • Home Depot • Panera Bread • Portland Police Bureau • Quantem Aviation Services

Hayden Hunter the advocate

Last year, Mt. Hood’s Maywood Park campus held its first annual job fair for upwards of 500 people.

On Thursday, the branch campus will be hosting the Second Annual Parkrose Community Job Fair, a coalition between MHCC, WorkSource Portland Metro and the Historic Parkrose business organization.

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MHCC hosts three job fairs yearly, one each term. According to Bhaktirose Dawdy, Career and Academic Group Advising Coordinator, the job fairs in the fall and winter have anywhere from

300-500 community members and students attending, however the job fair in the spring has had more than twice that and averages 500 students.

According to Dawdy, the job fair isn’t just for students and community members who have a job. She feels that a lot of students settle with the wages they currently make when they could be making more at a job that provides grants towards schooling.

“This year, we’re more prepared,” said Lupe Pelayo, Maywood Park site coordinator. He said the campus aims to be prepared for at least 500 people again, and is planning to better address foot traffic during the event.

“We didn’t really know what to expect last year. We think that we have done better planning of where

to put employers so that we can get less congestion,” said Pelayo.

He said he thinks the reason Maywood got such a high turnout is a mixture of things, including marketing, its location, and current unemployment rates.

Companies planning on attending the March 10 event will include Aflac, the City of Portland, Fred Meyer (Kroger) stores, Home Depot, Portland Police Bureau,

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Quantem Aviation Services, and others. Pelayo expects more than 30 businesses to attend.

Pelayo pointed out that the fair is not just for students, but also any job seekers from the local community.

Attendees should wear appropriate business attire and bring a resumé.

The Maywood Park campus is at Northeast 101st Ave. and Prescott Street in Portland.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

March 4, 2016

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MHCC students shine at talent night

Reconciling opposites Former MHCC art instructor brings her work to the Visual Arts Gallery

Photos by Nick Pelster and Emily Wintringham

FROM LEFT: Eleonora Kazaryan, Zoe Russell, Tyler Cloninger, Rainshine Heffner, Jossie Hernandez, Marianna Martini, Dan Davey.

Matana McIntire the advocate

If you have an iPhone, press your home button three times.

Look at the inverted colors, the elements of contrast on your bright screen: They might remind you of Barbara Black’s artwork.

A retired Mt. Hood art instructor, Black has returned to the college to display her artwork Photo by Chuck Masi this month Barbara Black, speaking in the Visual about her artwork.

Arts Gallery.

She is one of the three former Mt. Hood faculty members featured in the current exhibit, “Spotlight on Three Artists,” that runs through March 17.

Black spoke about her work, particularly its bright colors and the importance of contrast. “I do like contrast, because I think one of the things I like to reconcile in my work are all kinds of contrasts,” she said.

The idea of reconciliation is a strong one within her work.

It nearly embodies mixedmedia work altogether: The act of combining techniques and mediums to create a cohesive, beautiful piece. In discussing the

types of media she works with – prints, collage elements, water colors, and oil pastels, to name a few - she laughed over the word “reconciliation” coming up again.

“I really like bringing different kinds of things together. If the form changes, the meaning feels different,” she said. Essentially, it becomes a whole new piece.

Black has been expressing herself through art since she was a little girl. She drew for years, only picking up painting during art school. It was in graduate school, though, where her life took a turn. She met an instructor and a classmate with whom she discussed opening a co-op gallery, a gallery owned and operated by local artists.

That gallery was Blackfish Gallery, and it opened in 1979 with a dozen artists, including Black.

Her art is still at the Blackfish Gallery in northwest Portland, a permanent home for it to be displayed. But for students, staff and community members, her works are more easily available at the Visual Arts Gallery, for another two weeks.

TOP: “terra incognita v”, acrylic on paper, painted by Barbara Black.

View the video at: advocate-online.net Subscribe to our channel at: youtube.com/ mhccadvocate

More than a dozen acts stepped up to the stage and delivered last Thursday night, at MHCC’s Got Talent 2016 event.

The competition was hosted

by Linh Hoang, Student Activities Board receptions coordinator and emceed by Ethan Archer, former ASG member. Contestants had their ‘celebrity moment’ as their pictures were taken at MHCC’s own version of the Academy Awards red carpet.

Nineteen acts competed for the grand prize of a trophy, a $500 Amazon gift card, and a free dinner at Southpark Seafood Restaurant.

The winner: a group of four competitive break-dancers who call themselves New Birth Crew.

Claudia Bautista, singing “If I Ain’t Got You,” won the People’s Choice Award voted by the audience members present at the end of the show. Judges gave a special recognition award to Eleonora Kazaryan, who performed a ballet, “Dying Swan.”

The judges panel included Dan Davey, MHCC jazz instructor; Marianne Martini, public speaking instructor; and Jossie Hernandez, ASG director for the SAB. Jordae Neish, also known as Rubic City, started off the night singing an original pop song titled “Fly,” with instrumentals playing in

the background.

Pianist Erika Dizon was second to bat, playing “Elegy of the Soul.”

The composer is unknown.

Shae Bedford performed a rendition of “Change is Gonna Come,” by Sam Cooke, in honor of Black History Month. She played the guitar as she sang.

Kasandra Bosch sang “Where is the Love” by the Black Eyed Peas, under colorful spotlights.

Kazaryan danced the “Dying Swan” in her ballet performance. She eloquently told a story as if she were a dying swan herself, going through the final stages of its life. She spent most of the ballet on her toes, with her arms slowly flapping mimicking the gestures of a swan. Her final moves were jerking her arms like wings and ending her performance by curling into a fetal position.

Melissa Homewood performed “Gavotte,” noted violinist Shinichi Suzuki’s rendition of the classic German piece, written by Bach.

New Birth Crew broke the tranquil atmosphere with their freestyle breaking, which ended as the top winning performance.

New Birth Crew (NBC) has been performing for seven years and released YouTube videos called “Breaking in the Gorge.”

Kymon Robbs, lead singer in the group KJR Soulsters, sang “Home” with passion. Jessica Ramirez sang a Spanish ballad, “Tuyo,” accompanied

by a guitarist.

Rapper Victoria Cowal freestyled her own lyrics, stalling between bars only once during a long run of unique metaphors.

Brittany Cowels performed “Holy Water” by Big & Rich.

Zoe Russell sang a cover of “Black Pearl” by Sonny Charles & The Checkmates, also to honor Black History Month.

Baustista’s version of “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys, was a big favorite and cinched the People’s Choice Award.

MIkesh Thapa played an original song he called a “classic medley” but has no formal title.

Sydney Lavoie performed “Drop-pop Candy” and brought some sass into it. Estrella Neish sang “I See Fire” by Ed Sheeran. Her performance started off sweet and elegant and got more powerful as she continued.

ASG senator Anh Nguyen sang a Vietnamese love song, “Sau Tất Cả” or “After All”.

Rap duo Knight, featuring Rainshine Heffner and Tyler Cloningner, perfomed a freestyle number they made up on the spot.

Their witty lines brought laughter from the crowd, and the judges noted how fast they were able to rap.

Singer-songwriter Penny Grand ended the talent show with an allacoustic original song, “Hand-inHand.”

in that time. That might sound like a good idea late at night after a gallon of bourbon and Tylenol, but in practice it makes the film incredibly hard to understand for most people, and distracting for those who actually recognize the sources (I swear, I heard a few quotes from Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.” If you are going to take dialogue from something, why “The Crucible”?!).

On top of that, while the adults give a nice performance, the child actors are less than satisfactory.

During scenes of intense horror, they look more like they are about to yawn or even laugh instead of the expected reaction – horror.

However, what is probably the worst part of all are the actual horror elements in play. Though

“The Witch” does not go as far as to use cheap jump scares to get a reaction, the only times it does elicit a fearful response are scenes that heavily sample from other films, such as “The Exorcist” or “The Lords of Salem.” The only things that do feel original are the more dull parts of the movie. It feels incredibly padded and needlessly slow, despite a modest runtime of 90 minutes.

Overall, it’s not a time-waster.

It is certainly better than anything Blumhouse is working on and, though not very original, it still has some scary moments that might tide you over until the end.

The direction is satisfying and some of the visuals are very pleasing to look at. Hardcore horror fans will probably be let

down by the lack of innovation, but during the film I was able to entertain myself with Monty Python references, so there is some level of good to it.

It recieves a moderate rating of 3 out of 5 on a goat head scale.

Emily Wintringham

the advocate

New horror movie ‘The Witch’ fails to satisfy Glenn Dyer

the advocate

3/5 on the goat head scale

If you happen to be going to the movies soon and all the showings of “Norm of the North” are sold out, then you might consider watching a different horror movie: the featurelength debut of promising director Robert Eggers, “The Witch.”

The film centers around Thomasin, the wide-eyed daughter of a Puritan dissident who moves his entire family into the unforgiving wilderness of 1630s New England.

Shock and terror ensue, as the family

struggles to survive the dark forces that take hold of its members.

In the years following “Paranormal Activity,” the horror movie industry has come to be dominated by Blumhouse Productions and its attempts to make a quick buck with films such as “Unfriended” and “Sinister.”

However, every now and then a genuinely good horror film manages to slip through the cracks and rise to glory. “The Witch” is not one of those films.

While the direction is fine and we do get some decent performances out of the adult actors, the rest of the picture leaves much to be desired. For some inane reason the filmmakers decided to lift much of the dialogue from period pieces set

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Madeline Partridge: horn player and chem major Ivy Davis

the advocate Madeline Partridge has more than a few things in common with the rest of us Mt. Hood students: For instance, she’s constantly busy with school work.

What sets this young student apart, you might ask? She plays horn in both Wind Ensemble and Orchestra, she’s majoring in chemistry, she likes playing hurling, and she’s her own individual, like everyone else.

“I started playing horn when I was in seventh grade,” said Partridge, now in her third year at MHCC. That was eight years ago. With an entire family involved in music, and a grandpa who plays French horn, it was easy for her to fall in love with the brass instrument. She recalled a moment, saying, “I was 3 and one of my first memories is hearing my grandpa practicing – I remember

him playing, and always being kind of entranced by it.” She described it as a “weird” and “crazy” instrument that not very many people play.

Generally when asked about horn, people will refer to the more common trumpet, said Partridge. She explained, “you probably shouldn’t say that to a horn player, we get a little bit offended – not to throw trumpet players under the bus.”

From sixth grade, Partridge knew she wanted to play horn but actually started with low brass (the trombone, euphonium, and tuba family of instruments), then “was able to switch to horn, which is kind of an unusual change.” The talented musician has been playing the instrument since age 12 and says it’s gotten her through tough times and makes for a nice break from chemistry.

Currently Partridge is taking or-

ganic chemistry and calculus, along with her music courses. This is her last year at MHCC and then she will transfer to Southern Oregon University to major in forensic chemistry. “As boring as it sounds, I would like to have a lab job,” she said – but being able to get to college and have actual fields of degrees one could go into is even better. Getting a forensics job with Multnomah County or the federal DEA doing case labwork is what she hopes for. Photo by Ivy Davis

Though she plans to major in chemistry, she still wants to keep playing horn. Playing gives her a break from a long day of chemistry and calculus block classes.

“It’s nice to have something that’s not so linear, and not quite so many rules, where you can be a little more creative,” she said.

In what Partridge calls her “five minutes of free time,” she plays a sport called hurling.

Hurling is Ireland’s n a t i o n sport and one of the oldest sports in his-

with their relationship status wind up either in a committed relationship or actively seeking one. At the beginning of the movie, the main character breaks it off with her longterm boyfriend in order to discover “who she is.” But, instead, what we see is this woman getting hung up on a handful of men, or getting really drunk.

Another issue with the film is that there are so many subplots that it is impossible to invest emotionally in any of them. Some of the characters and many of the scenes are gratuitous and do absolutely nothing to further the plot. It’s trying to tell too many stories at once, and as a result I found myself ambivalent about all of them. I saw this film with my closest friend. In the parking lot afterwards she said to me, “I was hoping for a little more,” to which I responded, “I was hoping for a little less.” The storyline would have benefited

greatly from cutting out some of these characters and subplots and focusing on telling one clean story from start to finish.

What is interesting about this movie was that Rebel Wilson’s character (Robin) is simultaneously the worst and best part of it. She is a fun and positive influence on the main character (a mopey zoo lion through most of the movie); however, she is also completely two-dimensional. She doesn’t care about anything but sex and parties and it is pretty unconvincing that she and this main character became close friends so quickly. At the end of this movie, it is revealed that Robin is rich. No explanation is given for this, and it is referenced that she has the same job as the main character (Alice) and lazily qualified with the response from Robin that she has that job to spend time with Alice – even though Robin was already at that firm on Alice’s

first day. But, Robin is the comedic relief of the movie and she delivers some enjoyable lines.

Leaving this movie, I felt worse about not having a boyfriend than when I walked in, which I doubt was the intention of the creators.

The plot has more holes than Swiss cheese, the characters are flat and

tory. “It’s kind of like lacrosse and field hockey,” she explained. She plays for a club team consisting of all men and one woman – her. Just like in any sport, the point is to get the ball to the other side, she said – getting the leather ball under the goal is three points, and over the goal is one point.

Partridge tries to spend time with friends outside of school, but ends up spending the majority of her time studying, practicing, and hurling.

On Thursday evening, she performed with the Wind Ensemble and Orchestra, under MHCC instructor Grant Linsell. The groups are scheduled for another Mt. Hood concert on June 2.

And looking forward, Partridge plans on continuing to playing horn throughout her life, possibly joining a community group.

Madaline Partridge with her horn.

‘How to Be Single’ more like ‘how to get drunk’ Quincy Smith the advocate

2/5 on the martini scale

I love being single. I love doing whatever I want, anytime I want. So when I watched the trailer for “How To Be Single,” I must say it piqued my interest. The movie appeared to be a celebration of women like me, women who were unapologetically aware of who they are and unafraid to walk through life unaccompanied by a romantic companion. So, you can imagine my disappointment when I found the movie is a complete and utter dud.

Firstly, while the movie tries to support female friendships and self-growth through introspection, it cannot seem to break away from the idea of monogamous relationships.

The few characters in the film who start off completely comfortable

the emotional appeals seem rushed and half-assed. The only appropriate time to watch this movie is when you’re hammered drunk after a night out with your girlfriends and there’s nothing else on TV and you don’t have Netflix, for some reason.

Don’t pay money to go see this.

See “Deadpool” a fourth time instead.

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SPORTS

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Farewell sophomores and thanks for the memories Saints close out season, celebrate last game together on Mt. Hood’s Sophomore Night Jon Fuccillo the advocate

A

lthough the Mt. Hood women’s basketball team got blitzed by 30-points at the hands of powerhouse conference foe Lane Community College, the Fab Five left their all on the hardwood one last time in their Sophomore Night finale Saturday in the Yoshida Event Center.

The final score was lopsided at 83-53, but the Saints battled an early deficit to make a game of it with the Titans (now 15-1 in the South Region and 28-1 overall).

“We knew they were a tough team, but it would have been amazing to have won,” said Saints forward Madison Weaver, who plans on making a slew of university visits for both volleyball and basketball scholarship opportunities during spring break. “They’re No. 1 in NWAC. All around, there isn’t one player on that team that doesn’t deserve to start.”

All five sophomores that made up this year’s Saints team were greeted by family members and friends while receiving a handful of gifts from the school. “It’s a bittersweet feeling,” said Weaver.

“I’ve had an on-and-off relationship

with basketball... I’m definitely going to miss it. I don’t know what I am going to do without it. I’ve been playing since fourth grade.”

Weaver said she has been dealing with concussion-like symptoms since Jan. 30, but decided to play anyway, without informing teammates or the coaching staff. “I’ve known since I got it, but I didn’t want our team to know and (force us to) forfeit games, so I continued on,” said Weaver (the already shorthanded Saints would then be unable to field a five-woman team). “I’m just glad the season ended because my head hurts. Our trainer was really mad, since the risks are really big.”

Guard Jesse Morris had mixed emotions about the season ending, especially since the sophomore-heavy squad hoped for a spirited effort at making the NWAC championship games in Kennewick, Wash.

“It’s sad because I feel like we should be going to the tournament, but I’m proud of us and I love those girls,” said Morris, who plans on attending Concordia University of Edmonton in Canada with Saints teammate Delanee Martin. “I’m always going to remember this year and all that we accomplished.”

In the first quarter, the Titans led 19-3 and would cruise the rest of

With only five players on their active roster, the Saints were able to piece together their best season in league play since 2011-2012.

“I feel like I’ve made a few really great friendships since I’ve been here, and now it’s time to move on. I’m definitely going to miss my team.” - Lacey Weddle All Photos by Jeff Hinds

the way, like they’ve been doing all season long.

By halftime, the Saints did creep closer, to trail 33-21.

Titans head coach Greg Sheley had nothing but high praise for the Mt. Hood women. “That’s a special group of five. They deserve a lot of credit for what they accomplished this season with just five players,” he said.

Saints sophomore Lacey Weddle contributed 22 points in the loss, adding seven rebounds and five assists. She finished the year averaging 13.3 points. Martin chipped in with 16 points, while

Alexis Imbler grabbed a game-high 15 rebounds.

“These last couple of days I’ve been feeling bummed that the season is over,” said Weddle. “I feel like I’ve made a few really great friendships since I’ve been here, and now it’s time to move on. I’m definitely going to miss my team.”

Saints first-year head coach John Hawley was thrilled with the team’s effort this season, even if they couldn’t win a lot of games.

“As a team we overcame a lot of adversity,” said Hawley. “Every day was a challenge with the low

numbers we had. But we decided to not let these circumstances dictate our games. I’m extremely proud of these young ladies.”

Despite being shorthanded, the Saints far outperformed previous teams. Since the 2012-2013 season, they had only won one league game, total. The last time they won four games in the South Region was the season before.

So, the program made positive strides and looks to build on that momentum next season when Hawley brings in an entire new group of players.

Mt. Hood men turn page on 2015-2016 season, drop finale to Lane Titans His team trailing, 78-57, with four minutes left on Saturday, Saints star sophomore Jamal Muhammad was replaced by freshman Isaiah Alder, and took his place on the bench with a distraught look on his face.

This was the last time the Mt. Hood sophomores would play together, and were honored after the season finale in the Yoshida Event Center.

It hasn’t been easy for the Saints men this season, and Saturday was no exception.

Mt. Hood (3-13 in the South Region, and 6-21 overall) went on to lose to a very talented Lane Community College squad, 86-69.

The Titans closed out the regular season with a record of 11-5 in regional play and 23-6 overall, and are headed to the NWAC championship tournament in Kennewick, Wash., while the Saints can only watch.

The horizon is still bright for Mt. Hood though, as freshman Cody Thompson returns next year.

Mt. Hood lost its last game of the year, 86-69, on Sophomore Night to the Lane Titans on Saturday. The Saints rolled out an all-sophomore starting five as a tribute.

The 6-foot-6 Grants Pass native finished the contest with a teamhigh 20 points in just 16 minutes of action. On the year, he averaged 13 points and four rebounds, but since Jan. 30 he’s gone off for 19.4 points per contest.

Saints fans had a chance to say farewell to sophomores Muhammad, Kody Kennedy, Jeremy Brown, Micah Hardeman and Brenton Shropshire, who all got the chance to start in their

final game as a Saint. Shropshire, a 6-foot-8 Hawaiian, tied his season best with seven boards.

“It sucks that the season is over,” said Kennedy, who plans on playing at a four-year college next season.

“I’m excited to find out who might be interested in me, even with it being a tough year.”

It certainly has been a long season. The team struggled with cohesive play and tensions boiled over in recent weeks. In response

to some of the turmoil, both head coach John Hawley and assistant coach Que Quarterman would not offer comment, but referenced the handling of any team issues as internal matters.

Muhammad, who served a pair of one-game suspensions, meanwhile, has nursed both shoulder and hand injuries on his shooting side all season and said he wants to a year off to rehab and get healthy.

“This summer I plan on moving

to Seattle and working for an Amateur Athletic Union team called EYBL, who I played for, and will be training and mentoring kids,” he said. “I’m trying to give kids what I didn’t have growing up, and I will be getting paid to do so. I want to finish college in Canada where you can play for five years (combined). So, I can take a year off and get better, and then play three more years there and eventually play overseas and help