The Advocate, Issue 27 - May 10, 2019

Volume 53, Issue 27 MAY 10, 2019 advocate-online.net

Prospective VPs visit MHCC PAGE 4

Spoiler-free 'Endgame' review PAGE 5

Doing Mother's Day different PAGE 10

Team effort, baseball success PAGE 11

BOARD CANDIDATES, ASSEMBLE! PAGE 6-8

Aspiring doctor wins ASG top spot PAGE 9

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OPINION EDITORIAL

A D V O C AT E - O N L I N E . N E T

DISTRICT BOARD ENDORSEMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS

W

ith the upcoming May 21 special election comes four Mt. Hood District Board positions up for grabs, and many folks with Mt. Hood ties looking to fill or retain those seats on the seven-member panel.

Running unopposed for Zone 3 (Parkrose area) is newcomer Andrew Speer. For Zone 5 (Rockwood area), running unopposed is incumbent board member Kenney Polson.

Running for Position 6 (at-large) are former board member and chair Diane Noriega and newcomer Courtney Helstein. Running for Position 7, at-large, are current board members Tamie Tlustos-Arnold and Teena Klawa-Ainslie, as well as new candidate LaVerne Lewis.

For more detailed information on all of the candidates, please read our profiles on Pages 6-8 in this issue.

After attending nearly every board meeting and work session over the 201819 academic year, we at the Advocate have gained a general set of expectations for board members, as we’ve had the chance to witness some great work and discussions

take place this year.

We expect board members to show up for meetings and be prepared for what’s on the agenda, but beyond that, be prepared to engage and actively contribute to discussions. Sometimes your view isn’t popular, but sharing it is important and it’s why you were elected.

We also believe that the commitment of board members goes beyond the monthly board work sessions and meetings. It means getting out in the community to advocate for community college support; going to Salem to talk to our elected representatives about the need for community college funding; understanding the demographics of MHCC students, staff, and faculty; and understanding the East Multnomah County economy and its challenges.

Board members have to be willing to have hard conversations, and make hard decisions. Being on the board of a college with declining enrollment, increasing tuition costs, and a tight budget can’t be easy, but that’s why it’s particularly important to not forget the positive things happening at

VPI ENDORSEMENT After learning about all three candidates for Vice President of Instruction (VPI) at MHCC, the Advocate hopes to see Alfred McQuarters fill the position.

McQuarters exemplifies cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion efforts through his specific examples of how he has helped students feel more welcome on campus and how he keeps different minorities in mind when making decisions.

We think his experiences as a student, instructor, dean, department chair, and in more situations give him the perspective needed to make higher-level decisions effectively and fairly.

Throughout the three days of VPI candidates visiting

campus, many Mt. Hood students expressed favoritism for Portland Community College’s registration process and campus culture.

Students said they feel PCC adapts to their current student population better than MHCC has been doing. With McQuarters being from PCC, we believe it would certainly be a great thing to bring some of that energy to MHCC. He’s also already familiar with Mt. Hood and the Portland metro area, which gives him an edge over the out-of-state candidates.

We hope to see Mt. Hood take a step forward by inviting Alfred McQuarters to be our new Vice President of Instruction.

MHCC. Whenever the budget comes up in meetings, the tone often shifts to one of sadness and feeling stuck in place. What’s often forgotten is how many incredible things are taking place already every day on campus. Working within our resources to do what’s best for students and the college is a priority.

It’s also important that board members understand their role versus the role of the college administration, and keep that in mind during the decision making process and in discussions.

We hope current and future board members will keep these things in mind to best represent the community and in fulfilling their duties as a board member.

ENDORSEMENTS The Advocate would like to express our support for Tamie Tlustos-Arnold for Position 7 (at-large). We think her passion for Mt. Hood Community College, her dedication to the board, engagement during meetings, and ideas for the future make her a strong candidate for another term.

While Klawa-Ainslie has been connected with the college from its beginning, we feel that as a whole Tlustos-Arnold currently brings stronger problem solving skills and more effective involvement to the board.

We would also like to express our support for Diane Noriega for Position 6 (atlarge). We believe her combined experience in education, administration, and previous experience on the board make her a prime candidate for the position. The fact that she has stayed connected to the college by serving on the MHCC Foundation shows she is committed to supporting the institution.

Assuming their election by voters, we wish the best to unopposed candidates Andrew Speer and Kenney Polson and look forward to seeing what they also bring to the table the next four years.

Editorials are designed to explore compelling issues that affect the community we serve.

They have no attributed author because they represent the collective voice of the Advocate editorial board.

START FUNDING K-14 EDUCATION

Megan Phelps the advocate An ice cream social was heavily advertised for Wednesday, but the real highlight on the Gresham campus May 8 was the passionate

chanting of the MHCC community calling on the Oregon Legislature to better fund the educational system.

Mt. Hood students, staff, and faculty gathered in the Main Mall for a rally organized by the Oregon Education Association (OEA) and the classified staff association at the college.

Throughout the current legislative session in Salem, educators from K-12 public schools, on up to higher education institutions, have protested what they call inadequate funding provided by the state. The OEA started the campaign “Red for Ed” (wearing red clothes to show support) which has led strong

advocacy within educational groups.

May 8 was a special day for the campaign, as thousands of teachers and others gathered in prominent areas around the state in protest.

There is light ahead for K-12 schools, since the state House of Representatives has passed House Bill 3427, or the “Student Success” funding package, which aims to increase business taxes in order to add $2 billion of new state revenue every two years, aimed at higher K-12 funding.

TO CONTINUE READING, SEE PAGE 12 Advisers

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NEWS

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HISTORIANS ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSES BREXIT Sadie Klein

the advocate Another MHCC historians roundtable came together on Monday to discuss the issues surrounding the United Kingdom leaving the European Union – commonly called “Brexit” (shorthand for “British exit.”)

Some background: The UK consists of Northern Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. In the 1970s, the UK joined the EU, an economic and political partnership of mostly European countries that has grown to 28 countries.

There is freedom of movement between borders for the countries that are a part of the EU. This is beneficial, in terms of immigration, for instance, and for allowing doctors from various countries to travel and provide care in different regions of the EU, the roundtable panel said.

However, that easy movement can be conflicting as well – including the immigration – especially in the eyes of the UK. A public election was held in 2016 to decide if the UK should leave the EU, and two polar positions on the issue arose from this vote: There are many claims the public did not know what they were truly voting for, and that there was use of fear-

MHCC GRADU ATION 2019

mongering through propaganda promoting Brexit.

Meantime, during 2016 the Syrian crisis was at full speed, and the ability for growing migrants/ potential refugees to cross borders freely was a pressing issue at the time, making exiting the EU seem like a popular option. Moreover, the idea that taxes being paid to the EU could instead go towards national health care at home was an intriguing argument.

Clearly, leaving the EU would cause an immense amount of economic and immigration-related change for the UK, member of the panel said.

Scheduled roundtable participants included MHCC instructors Elizabeth Milliken, Jonathan Morrow, Peter Cunningham, Brady Carey, Eric Tschuy and Pat Casey.

Now, after much political controversy over Brexit, it won’t be until Oct. 31 that the decision to stay or leave the EU will be finalized.

The question people are asking now, the panel said, is “Will there be a second vote” after voters are properly informed? Politicians are being criticized by the public, and according to the MHCC panelists, debate has evolved into an issue of democracy, rather than an issue simply regarding Brexit.

NEWS BRIEFS with Corwin Benedict

VISITING ARTIST WORKSHOP

On Friday (May 10) at 11 a.m., Anthony Fuemmeler will run a workshop and seminar in Visual Arts (classroom) 17, focusing on making masks. He will share tips and tricks from his experiences with guests; lunch will be provided.

MHCC BASEBALL VS. CLARK COLLEGE

MHCC’s baseball squad, currently tied for first place in the NWAC South Region, plays its final home games of 2019 against the Clark College Penguins on Friday, May 10. Games at Oslund Field are set for 4 and 7 p.m. Admission is free for Mt. Hood students with ID.

THE CRUCIBLE

The MHCC Theatre production, “The Crucible” will open at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 10, in the Studio Theatre. Shows also run Saturday and Sunday, and on May 17-19. This is a classic play based on Arthur Miller’s look at 17th century New England witch trials. Tickets for students will be $7 at the door, and 5$ in advance.

BLOOD DRIVE

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday-Wednesday (May 14-15), there will be a blood drive in the Student Union. Snacks will be provided for donors.

Participants may pre-register, but drop-ins also are welcome.

Last year, MHCC helped the American Red Cross collect 156 units of blood, which helped up to 468 patients in need! Let’s see if we can top that this year.

ASIAN AMERICAN CULTURE NIGHT

At 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, Student Life will celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander month with a movie night. The movie shown will be “Crazy Rich Asians,” directed by Jon Chu, a romantic comedy based on a global bestseller book. It follows Rachel Chu, a native New Yorker who travels to Singapore to meet her boyfriend’s family.

A discussion will be held afterward for anyone interested in participating. Admission is free.

MHCC DISTRICT BOARD MEETING

The Mt. Hood District Board of Education will hold its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, in the Board Room, AC 2359.

MHCC JURIED STUDENT EXHIBIT RECEPTION

From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, there will be an artists’ reception at the MHCC Visual Arts Gallery. This month’s show features the artwork of Mt. Hood students.

OREGON SUPREME COURT HEARINGS

The Oregon Supreme Court will hold oral arguments on two ongoing cases in the College Theatre on Wednesday, May 15. One case starts at 9 a.m. (be there early); the second at 10:30.

For specific case background: https://web.courts. oregon.gov/sclist. These hearings are open to the public, and likely to draw a packed house.

COMMENCEMENT:

Caps & Gowns are now on sale in the Bookstore, beginning at $36 (additional regalia sold separately).

GED & AHSD:

Haven’t completed your degree yet? No problem! A completed degree is not required.

10 a.m. June 15 @ Earl Klapstein Stadium (Gresham Campus) 7 p.m. June 14 @ Earl Klapstein Stadium (Gresham Campus)

For more info, scan this QR Code. Or visit mhcc.edu/graduation

*No tickets required to enter ceremony

GET TO KNOW THE ADVOCATE

Cover by: Eli Rankin / the Advocate On the cover: A parody of a poster for “Avengers: Endgame,” featuring the District Board candidates and Barney, the school mascot.

Contact us!

E-mail: advocatt@mhcc.edu Phone: 503-491-7250 Website: advocate-online.net Mt. Hood Community College Room 1369 26000 SE Stark Street Gresham OR 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.

Writer

Corwin Benedict, one of the newer Advocate staff writers, is earning a high school diploma at the same time as his associate’s degree. He recently moved from Los Angeles, and is happy to finally see green growing things again. He has been a reader and writer his whole life, ever since he discovered the world of fantasy. Currently, he has a novel online with just under a thousand followers. Outside of that, he spends most of his free time playing soccer with friends or playing “League of Legends” online.

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NEWS

A D V O C AT E - O N L I N E . N E T

MHCC SEARCHES FOR VP OF INSTRUCTION Cassie Wilson the advocate

MHCC is on the search for a Vice President of Instruction (VPI) after college President Lisa Skari decided it was a necessary move in restructuring the administration by eliminating the Chief of Staff position.

On the first three days of May, three finalists for the job were brought in separately to spend a day on campus with various assembled groups to ask and answer questions.

Groups included Mt. Hood faculty, students, the president’s executive cabinet, an open forum, and more.

Common themes brought up by students, staff, and faculty included the experiences of nontraditional students; the need for quick decisions to be made in this position; how communication issues can be solved; and how student affairs and instruction interact.

RUTHANNE ORIHUELA Ruthanne Orihuela was the first candidate to visit.

She is currently the executive dean of arts and humanities at the Community College of Denver.

Photos by Fletcher Wold and Megan Phelps / the Advocate

Vice President of Instruction candidates Ruthanne Orihuela, Thomas Broxson, and Alfred McQuarters.

She’s also currently working on a doctorate in Higher Education Student Affairs Leadership from the University of Northern Colorado.

Orihuela’s focus ideas include looking at the entire process of students starting at the college, from filling out the application to the first day of class, to see how complicated that process is and then work to make it more straightforward with tools such as Navigate, a software program designed to ease the registration and planning process.

“We need students to not get frustrated,” she said.

She said that planning goes beyond MHCC, too, and that students should feel supported in planning their futures beyond community college.

Orihuela also brought up institutional outcomes, which to her is posing the question, “What is an MHCC graduate?” and how the college hopes all of their students will be similar at the point of graduation. This can include

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4 P.M. FRI., MAY 17 Come early! Optional campus tours begin at 3 p.m.

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s • Academic program s • Application proces • Campus life • Paying for college

teaching curriculum through diverse perspectives or wanting students to be up-to-speed with technological skills.

When she asked students if MHCC had institutional outcomes, the resounding response was, “If we do, we don’t know what they are.”

She talked about the importance of getting students through developmental education (math, reading, and writing prerequisites) as efficiently as possible so they’re more likely to make it into a program and complete that program, instead of feeling stuck in early courses.

During the open forum, she talked about her experience with a collegewide prioritization process and the idea that colleges need to identify what they’re doing well and expand on it by knowing where money should be invested to support more students.

This process means cutting programs that aren’t as strong as they used to be or don’t have high enrollment or job placement rates.

She said it’s a tough process to go through, but that it can be done through a positive lens.

When asked by Mt. Hood’s Title III coordinator if she could make quick decisions, Orihuela said she’d hope she’d be given enough notice ahead of the July 1 start date to begin information gathering to help make decisions upon starting.

THOMAS BROXSON VPI candidate, Thomas Broxson, spent May 2nd on campus.

Broxson is currently district dean of natural sciences and mathematics at Pierce College District in Lakewood and Puyallup, Washington (near Tacoma).

Similar to Orihuela, Broxson talked with students, staff, and faculty about guided pathways like

the Navigate program as being key in helping to fix a lot of the issues the college now faces with students registering, planning, and completing their programs.

When nontraditional students expressed their needs, he said they really are the “typical” students at community colleges and that colleges need to adapt to the students they’re serving.

“You are the reason we’re here,” said Broxson.

He noted that society often tells us to just deal with the bureaucratic systems in place, but there’s no real reason we should have to. Colleges should be getting out of the way instead of creating more barriers on top of those already existing, he said.

Broxson talked a lot about the importance of data. He said he’s somewhat of a data-nut and enjoys sorting through any data he can get his hands on to identify problems and non-problems, to develop plans. He forms focus groups based on problems identified to find common causes and then to work for solutions. He said his first-year plan at MHCC would be poring over institutional data and meeting with various campus groups.

When asked about being able to make quick decisions very early into the job, Broxson said he’d be reluctant because it’s better to have more time and conversation to make the best choices.

In regards to communication, Broxson said that having college goals and making sure everyone is working toward them would help create more unified messaging. He also suggests finding what is working well in terms of communication on a smaller level, then scaling it up to work for everyone.

ALFRED MCQUARTERS Alfred McQuarters visited the campus last, on May 3.

He currently serves as dean of math, science, health, physical education, and career technical education at the Portland Community College Southeast Campus. He’s wrapping up a doctorate degree in Adult Higher Education, Community College Leadership through Oregon State University.

TO CONTINUE READING, SEE PAGE 8

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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‘AVENGERS: ENDGAME’ – ALMOST PERFECT 4.5 out of 5 stars

Kurt Larson the advocate

After a decade of buildup, the concluding chapter to the “Avengers” saga has arrived. And it’s hard to believe that the most profitable film franchise in the world has only been in the mainstream consciousness since 2008.

It began as a throwaway scene at the end of the first “Iron Man,” but what was initially conjecture and hopeful wishes on the part of producer Kevin Feige eventually turned into a fullblown cinematic universe. Now, 10 years and several billion dollars later, and with a few rights acquisitions by Disney, a whole new genre of films has saturated the market – a market that Disney is more than happy to cater to.

No one is able to make a superhero movie quite like Marvel studios does, a sentiment which is amplified a

hundred times with the release of their latest film.

Since “Avengers: Infinity War” left audiences with the biggest cliffhanger since “Who shot J.R.?” (from the 1980s “Dallas” television serial), people have been clambering for the conclusion to the this epic saga.

So do the Avengers live up to the expectations they’ve so carefully laid for themselves? Directed by the Russo brothers and written by Stephen McFeely and Christopher Markus, “Endgame” wraps up the final phase for Marvel’s first generation of Avengers films.

After Thanos arrived on Earth in the last movie, it was clear everyone’s favorite cast of heroes had finally met their match. Now, five years after the events of Infinity War, Captain America and the team see a way to turn back the clock and stop him for good. Stopping any great villain always comes at a cost, and in the case of Endgame that cost is its 3-hour runtime.

While the majority of the

film keeps you on the edge of your seat, especially the final battle sequence, it definitely could’ve used a little help with the pacing in the first third. Aside from a couple pacing issues and some very minor CG awkwardness, there’s not much to criticize in the movie.

In part, that’s due to the fact that this is the first time a cinematic universe has been established in a mainstream property and with this amount of buildup. It’s never been done before and will likely never be done this way again.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe as we know it today came about from a mix of pure luck, genius, good timing, and perfect casting.

Unfortunately, the ingredients for this particular form of success only make themselves known once in a blue moon.

But at least we can enjoy it while it lasts.

Endgame is filled with in-

credible character interactions, satisfying story arcs, great comedic moments, and mind-blowing action. For what it is, it’s nearly impeccable. There are nits to be picked about certain aspects of the plot and the internal logic of the Avengers universe, but as far as pure satisfaction is concerned, it gets an A-plus.

It may not be the ending to the series that some viewers hoped for, but at the end of the day, the payoffs the film provides far outweigh any shortcomings.

The feat Marvel President Kevin Feige and the Russo brothers have accomplished with the completion of this franchise is unprecedented and truly awe inspiring.

Not many people are capable of telling such a complex and long running story so skillfully.

The biggest cinematic event in history has concluded and there’s no telling what’s next, but one thing is for sure: If you haven’t seen Endgame, you’re missing out.

Graphic by Angeles Ramirez / the Advocate

JAZZ IN FULL SWING ON CAMPUS Hannah Meisenhelder the advocate

On Saturday, May 4, the MHCC Gresham main campus was filled with the sounds of brass instruments, saxophones, and percussion: It was the 41st annual Northwest Jazz Band Festival, a well-known and wellloved youth jazz competition run by our own Mt. Hood music department.

Were you to take a stroll around campus, you would be surrounded by swing from five different venues where groups were performing from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. You could hardly walk 10 feet without encountering the recurring sight of teenagers in black tuxes, toting instrument cases and tattered Beacock music folders.

A whopping 75 middle- and high school big bands and combo groups were visiting from all around Oregon and Washington, making this the biggest turnout the festival has had in years. There were also 17 different adjudicators and clinicians, all amazingly talented musicians who gave each band constructive feedback on their performance, as well as hosted masterclasses every hour to

help students improve on different elements of jazz.

This year’s festival was also fortunate to host acclaimed jazz pianist Peter Martin as a guest artist.

Having arranged and performed on multiple Grammy️-winning releases, Martin took time off from a professional tour in Austria to attend Mt. Hood’s festival. He gave a masterclass, joined in as a guest with the college’s Big Band performance, and performed alongside MHCC faculty Tim Gilson on bass and Gary Hobbs on drums for an unforgettable jam that included several songs he had written himself.

It was certainly riveting for any jazz enthusiast to see so many talented musicians come together in one place to make music.

You could definitely see a love for the medium in the wide smile on Martin’s face every time he plunked the keys.

Of course, this festival wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless help of many volunteers from in and outside of the Mt. Hood music department, who worked from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. to make this huge undertaking run as seamlessly as possible.

Photo by Bethy Lynn / the Advocate

The Summit High School Bigband performing in the Student Union.

Many of our college student volunteers also performed in the MHCC Big Band at the end of the day.

Grateful for all the help to pull this off, Dan Davey, festival director and MHCC director of jazz, said he plans to make the Northwest Jazz Band Festival even bigger

next year.

Meantime: If you’d love to hear jazz music at Mt. Hood but missed out on this festival, have no fear: MHCC will host the OMEA State Jazz Championship all day on Saturday, May 18. The event will be free and open to all, and will be held in the College Theatre.

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NEWS

MT. HOOD DISTRICT BOARD CANDIDATES Four District Board positions are open for the May 2019 special election. Ballots are due by 8 p.m. on May 21. Board members serve on a voluntary basis and are responsible for tuition, the college budget, properties, managing taxpayer dollars, and more.

The candidates on these two pages are running for contested positions. To read about the unopposed candidates Andrew Speer (Zone 3) and Kenney Polson (Zone 5) turn to Page 8. For our expectations of board members and our candidate endorsements, read our editorial on Page 2.

Megan Phelps the advocate

Photo by Megan Phelps / the Advocate

DIANE NORIEGA

POSITION 6, AT-LARGE

Running for Position 6 (at-large) for a second term on the board, after serving on the MHCC Foundation board for the past four years, Diane C. Noriega brings years of higher education experience at various levels.

Noriega’s experience in higher education ranges from professor to interim college president, along with the positions of provost, academic vice president, and dean, all of which took place in California.

She said she believes her experience is her best contribution: “I can speak the language with the administration and translate with fellow board members who may come from different backgrounds (like private business or public service).”

She added that it’s important to understand the groups the board is serving – faculty, students, and unions, for example.

Her motivation to run again, after a four-year gap, is to stay connected to the

Megan Phelps the advocate

Photo provided by Courtney Helstein

COURTNEY HELSTEIN POSITION 6, AT-LARGE PA G E 6

Running for Position 6 (at-large) on the MHCC District Board, Courtney Helstein hopes to bring her political campaign experience, educational background, and passion for change to the panel, if elected.

Helstein said she knows what it’s like being a student today, having graduated eight years ago with $40,000 of student debt.

Her priorities include student-focused initiatives like ensuring affordability; ensuring programs are preparing students for the workforce with corresponding jobs that offer a family wage with benefits; that campus safety practices are trauma informed; and that the college recognizes the nontraditional students’ needs.

She said she thinks Mt. Hood can

college. She and her late husband have continued to donate to MHCC and her involvement keeps her going, she said. “I love it. I get as much out of it as I give … the college has my heart.”

(In fact, she is a Silver donor, as recognized by the Foundation, this year.)

Noriega hopes to maintain the quality of programs offered at Mt. Hood while in a negative budget situation, she said. Based on her Foundation work, she understands the importance of going beyond the Legislature to partner with industry professionals and utilize fundraising efforts.

She noted the college’s aging infrastructure and equipment, and said a general obligation bond measure needs to be passed in order to update infrastructure. “(W)e’ve got to make the connection between all of our communities and how we’re preparing their employees far more than four-year institutions,” she said about building local support.

Noriega said she also hopes to improve enrollment by having new energy directed

toward a grades K-14 system, saying that when students graduate from high school, they should turn to local institutions like MHCC to gain focused job preparation.

She also hopes to improve accessibility, meaning serving more low-income individuals, diverse groups, and people who most need training.

If elected, she offers her own skills as a Latina, Spanish-speaking individual, she noted.

Noriega said she believes the college has “fabulous faculty and outstanding programs” and that it’s been doing the best it can with the little it has. But she was saddened by tuition rates rising again, stating “We can’t continue to keep this place going on the backs of the students.”

She said being a good board member requires someone who “is always prepared, does their homework, makes sure they’ve studied the agenda, asks questions and thinks big-picture... (and doesn’t) simply focus on one issue at the expense of everything else.”

improve by transforming how it offers services and programs by better fitting the needs of students. This includes the times that services are available, offering childcare, and basic healthcare, including reproductive care.

When asked what makes a good board member Helstein said, “It goes back to the word ‘community’ … at the end of the day, the college is a reflection of the needs of students, faculty, and community, as an economic engine for East (Multnomah) County.” Based on her experience, she said, she knows she might not always have answers, but the willingness to listen and “be the change” has a real impact.

As a board member she would go to students first, stating that she believes an educational institution needs two things: educators and students. Gaining student

input gives them the opportunity to be a part of solutions.

Helstein’s first experience on campus was as an organizer with the Oregon Student Association, registering students and young adults to vote. This led her to be a community organizer for Oregon’s Tuition Equity policy in 2013, then campaign manager and later chief of staff for Oregon state Rep. Carla Piluso, D-Gresham, among other public policy efforts.

NEWS Cassie Wilson the advocate

Photo provided by LaVerne Lewis

LAVERNE LEWIS

POSITION 7, AT-LARGE

Currently a part-time instructor at MHCC, LaVerne Lewis plans to resign from her teaching position if she’s elected for Position 7 (at-large seat) on the college’s District Board.

Lewis has taught accounting and criminal justice at MHCC since 2011, and she’s just wrapping up her doctorate degree in education and online learning from Northcentral University. She’s also a small business owner, doing accounting and taxes, and director at the Rockwood Center, a faith-based community arts, service and outreach organization.

On top of that, she is a retired Multnomah County Sheriff ’s deputy.

The three things that inspired Lewis to run for a board position were her desire to keep tuition affordable, her concern with

Cassie Wilson the advocate

Photo provided by Mt. Hood Community College

TEENA KLAWA-AINSLIE POSITION 7, AT-LARGE

Current District Board member Teena Klawa-Ainslie is running for what would be her third term on the panel – this time running for Position 7 (at-large), since selling her long-time home (in District 3) and moving into an assisted living facility, still within the MHCC service district.

Aside from the current four-year term wrapping up, Klawa-Ainslie also served on the Mt. Hood board from 1996-1999.

She said she’s been working in education for 40 or 50 years, and also has taken many classes at MHCC which earned her a vocational education certificate.

Klawa-Ainslie said she’s enjoyed her current term on the board and has loved working with former President Debbie

Cassie Wilson the advocate

Photo provided by Tamie Tlustos-Arnold

TAMIE TLUSTOS-ARNOLD POSITION 7, AT-LARGE

Current MHCC District Board member and Mt. Hood graduate Tamie Tlustos-Arnold is ready to continue working hard for the college she loves if elected for another term, she said.

Tlustos-Arnold received her associate of science from MHCC, was ASG president during her time as a student, and has taught in MHCC’s nursing program.

She’s currently wrapping up her first term serving on the Board.

“There was something about Mt. Hood. It gave me my start, it inspired me, it was small enough that I knew my teachers and they were supportive of me,” said Tlustos-Arnold.

“I know as a long-time member of the community the value of education

campus safety, and her passion for student success, she said. While student success is broad, she more specifically wants to see there be more options for students in having pathways from MHCC to a job related to their degree, by partnering with the community and industry leaders to get more internships for students, she said.

Lewis hopes to be a voice in Salem for improved community college funding, a supporter of the vision of the college president, and advocate for the college in any other way the board decides as a unified body, she said.

Lewis said she believes a good community college board member understands their role as a board member and public servant, should be a leader and team player, be flexible, and never forget the mission of the college they serve.

In terms of what stands out to Lewis about MHCC right now, she said the

college’s presence in the community is one that is strong and full of pride.

With a background in education and accounting, Lewis hopes to bring her perspective as a faculty member and as someone who understands fiscal responsibility. She’s been a part of many boards in the past, and was also previously appointed to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, Oregon Advisory Committee, for three years.

If elected, Lewis hopes to continue teaching elsewhere, and feels comfortable managing her other responsibilities along with being a board member.

“There’s a lot of pride in Mt. Hood Community College. Students feel proud to say, ‘This is where I go.’ It’s wellrepresented. It has a good, established reputation that is visible,” she said.

Derr and current President Lisa Skari.

She’s also passionate about the role community colleges play in the local economy and in preparing residents with the education they need to get great jobs, she said.

She hopes for another term on the board to continue to keep working as a team, and to see through the current projects she’s involved with, such as the 102nd and Pacific/Generations Gateway Project – a proposed plan for a new community building in Portland’s Gateway neighborhood where more nursing and medical assistant classes would be held.

“I’ve been working on that for 45 years with Frieda Christopher from David Douglas (school district),” Klawa-Ainslie said. “I guess they’re going to break

ground in about a year.”

When it comes to what makes a good community college board member, she said, “Paying attention to detail and listening to what’s going on and being open to talk to any community member who wants to talk about community college education.”

Throughout the 2018-19 academic year, Klawa-Ainslie has often participated in board meetings and work sessions by telephone, when she doesn’t have a ride to the college, she said. She said she feels just as involved and is kept informed on agenda items via email.

and the importance of this college to our community. It just seemed natural that it had given me so much that I wanted to give back to my community and the college that I love so much,” she said.

Her time as ASG president fueled her passion for advocacy at MHCC and moving forward in all aspects of her life, she said.

In deciding to run for another fouryear term, Tlustos-Arnold said, “I feel like I’ve made a difference. I feel like I’ve had something positive to contribute to the board. I wanted to continue that momentum.”

Some of the ideas Tlustos-Arnold hopes to work on if elected include pushing for expanded use of Open Educational Resources (OER) to make college more affordable. She also wants to take a serious look at the college infrastructure and all

possible options that MHCC has to make things safer and more updated, she said.

“This is a big investment for this community and we need to take care of it,” she said.

Other ideas include looking into the idea of creating affordable student housing options and working to make sure the college staff and faculty reflect the diversity of its students.

She said some characteristics of a good community college board member include being engaged, giving time, speaking up, being prepared for meetings, and being an active board member beyond the twicemonthly meetings.

“I’ve lived in East County almost all my life. I went to Mt. Hood Community College and have a passion for it,” she said.

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NEWS

A D V O C AT E - O N L I N E . N E T

Jennifer Salazar the advocate

Photo provided by Andrew Speer

ANDREW SPEER

ZONE 3 (Unopposed)

Andrew Speer’s primary drive for running to be a District Board member is his desire to give back to the college that was part of his life when choosing a career path.

“I have always appreciated [the] community college model, I’m at a point in my life where I have the time and a big drive to give back to the college,” said Speer, a Mt. Hood alumnus.

Running to represent Zone 3, Speer has been collaborating with local K-12 school districts, including Parkrose, David Douglas, and Reynolds. He has held meetings with superintendents of those districts to build more connections between them and Mt. Hood, especially in order to understand their needs in

Omar Saradi the advocate

Photo provided by Mt. Hood Community College

KENNEY POLSON ZONE 5 (Unopposed)

Kenney Polson is many things – smooth jazz musician, composer, educator, and a current member of the MHCC District Board of Education.

Representing Zone 5 since 2015, Polson is looking to continue his contributions to the board in the next four years with the goal of “striving for equality and inclusion in the decision making at MHCC,” he said.

This time around Polson is running unopposed for the Board seat, so his focus is to continue his duties and work through changes he sees as fit to improve MHCC. On top of family and music responsibilities, Polson said he looks to plan and serve the college while balancing things “very carefully.” He said his 30-year

programs and career technical offerings.

Speer balances his own family and career, he said. As he looks for way to give back to the community through careful time management, he said he wants potential voters to know, “I’m just a normal person looking to give back. I’m excited to have a say and represent my community at the college in a way that is meaningful.”

Speer believes a good board member should have the relatability and connection to a community college to fully understand the needs of students and faculty. He graduated from Mt. Hood in 2005 with an associate’s degree in economics. He said he is familiar with the needs and concerns of students at MHCC, which allows him to understand students on a higher level.

As a person who spends a lot of time

with numbers, Speer also believes he can bring a different perspective to concerns or ideas the board might have, he said.

If elected, Speer said he hopes to bring quality decision-making processes, and be able to weigh financial consideration with the goal to maintain tuition affordability for students.

He also believes that sometimes certain decisions are not popular but might be necessary for the success of the school, he said.

experience as an educator has shown that he’s capable of this.

Currently, he said thinks MHCC is doing well with keeping the costs of college level education down. He added that it’s “not an easy task, especially when the support from the state is minimal,” which is an ongoing topic surrounding the funding of community colleges in Oregon for many years now.

When it comes to what changes or improvements he’d like to see at MHCC, Polson said more staff diversity is needed.

“I would like to see the faculty demographics look like the student demographics. Students need to see people who look like them,” he said. “It’s motivational and it is necessary for those who need someone in which they can relate.”

This has been a common issue brought

up by the Mt. Hood community, so Polson aims to be that voice on the board the next four years, he said. He noted he has gained cultural awareness from living in South America, Asia, and traveling to more than 50 countries.

Polson thinks that a good board member for a community college is “someone who has intelligence and who has not forgotten where they have come from. Someone who is sensitive and tolerant of needs of other cultures,” a quality that lines up with his vast experience, he said.

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A common theme for McQuarters was his stated ability to view issues through multiple lenses.

He’s been a student, faculty member, dean, and department chair.

His choice of subject to study for his doctorate program was a desire to expand on his experience by having more background to what he’s learned through his positions.

In approaching the VPI position, McQuarters said he would listen and understand work currently being done in managing ongoing projects, figuring out what to abandon, and planning the future of instruction. He stressed the importance of institutional PA G E 8

knowledge here.

Describing his efforts toward better communication, he said he feels he’s learned a lot from working in large, multi-campus districts. He said there should be more transparency, meetings, and connection with leadership to make sure faculty feel plugged in.

He said he’s accomplished this by having dedicated office hours open for faculty visits, the same way instructors hold office hours for students.

He’s also sometimes come into work outside of his normal hours to meet with instructors who work night and weekend classes because

they’re serving nontraditional students on the campus and need to feel connected, just like faculty working weekday hours.

When it comes to cultural diversity at the college, McQuarters said, “More than the content, it’s how you deliver content.”

Examples of his work in inclusion include helping implement the use and identification of pronouns that individuals at PCC would like to go by so that staff, faculty, and students in the LGBTQ community feel more welcome there. He also described the identity cards he carries in his suit pocket: The cards

list various minority groups so he is reminded of the various groups his decisions might affect to try to prevent unintended issues before they crop up.

When it comes to making quick decisions, McQuarters said it wouldn’t be an issue because part of his job would be to manage current projects and not just sit around, only listening and not taking action for a year. He said he’s good at multitasking.

When asked why he would want to leave PCC, he said it’s just part of his personal journey. In every higher position he’s taken on, he said it’s meant getting to

impact more students. The VPI position would expand that even further for him, he said.

THE DECISION A final decision on the VPI position is expected this month after the hiring committee reviews survey responses and then deliberates based on their own candidate interactions and interviews.

Regardless of the final selection, the three days of forums allowed staff, faculty, and students to reflect on their Mt. Hood experiences and how the college can work to improve systems for everyone.

NEWS | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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GET TO KNOW NEXT YEAR’S ASG PRESIDENT Jennifer Salazar the advocate

Mt. Hood’s next ASG president, winner of the election held last month, is 16-year-old Collin-Kazu Lewis – easily one of the youngest ASG presidents in school history.

Lewis, who typically goes by “Kazu,” has great ambitions for MHCC and for making it a better school for everyone, he said.

“A president not only expresses the students’ voice, but is also there for students, no matter what. We’re all (ASG) here for you,” he said.

A lot of people define others by their age… and Lewis would know.

In a room full of young adults and one respected older person, who would one usually go to for life advice? There’s no doubt many people would choose to talk to the older person. A lot of times, young adults aren’t given the respect they deserve and are seen as naïve. Lewis has experienced this scenario at least once in his life. When first entering college, he sometimes felt he wasn’t receiving the respect he had earned, because of his age, he said.

Collin-Kazu said he understands this issue and that’s why he works on a daily basis to prove to people that he deserves the spot he has obtained as next year’s ASG President.

Photo by Fletcher Wold / the Advocate

Future ASG President Collin-Kazu Lewis (left) stands with his brother Preston-Kye Lewis, who helped him come out of his shell.

He doesn’t let his age define who he is as a person and appreciates those who don’t define him by that, he added. “I appreciate you putting your confidence in me; I’ll make you proud,” he said in reaction to winning the majority of students’ votes.

All of his future goals and dreams tie to his position as ASG president, Lewis explained. “In ASG, I’m learning how to become a leader,” he said. He did not know what to expect from April’s election, since this is his first year at MHCC. “It’s hard to wrap my head around it, but it’s slowly sinking in,” he said. He is grateful for all the people he has met, the growing

experience of the election, and for all of the feedback he has received from students and faculty, he said.

He also enjoyed support received from his family and the current ASG team, he said.

Lewis has already surprised many with his many accomplishments, early in life. In 2018, when he was a freshman at Reynolds High School, he entered the Metro East Early College Academy (MEECA) and started early college at MHCC. He’s currently taking prerequisites to obtain an associate’s degree in pre-medicine. Once he earns both a high school diploma and his Mt. Hood degree, by 2021, he plans on going to Portland State University

to finish pre-medicine and then transfer to a medical school.

His main interest is in radiology, he said. “I have always been interested in medicine. I am an adventurous person, so as soon as I learned about it, I was like, I gotta get into that.”

He also has been interested in getting politically involved within his planned career. After spending some time at a hospital, he definitely sees himself becoming the chief of a hospital,” he said.

“I don’t plan on getting into something so extreme, like Congress, just small things affecting people in the most positive way,” he said.

During an interview Lewis disclosed that he was not always as sociable as he is now, sometimes never speaking during a school day.

He attributes much of his growth to his older brother, Kye (formal name, Preston-Kye).

Since his brother also attended MHCC, fellow students sometimes mistake him for Key. Although they have a familial resemblance, CollinKazu said the two were opposites while growing up, but that Kye taught him how to be social.

When they have time the two enjoy exploring, taking “random day trips” to ghost towns and

natural areas, Collin-Kazu said.

He’s looking forward to going to one place in particular this summer.

“There’s actually this ghost town in southern Oregon called Golden. It’s like six hours away and it’s an abandoned mining town. I thought it would be fun to go down there because it’s one of the best preserved ones,” he said.

As far as his parents, they were surprised to hear that he took on the campaign for ASG president but have supported him throughout his time at the college, Lewis said.

“The independence they gave me really built my character of who I am today,” adding they were happy he became involved with student government but also encouraged him to slow down and not overwork himself.

Lewis mentioned other parts of his identity, as he is half Japanese, and half Caucasian, and traveled to Japan several times while growing up to visit his mother’s side of the family.

“It’s very fun and eye-opening to see different cultures of the world,” he said. He enjoys traveling to meet people, see the landscape, and really understand the culture to expand his understanding, he said.

Megan Phelps contributed reporting for this story.

‘OUTSTANDING’ INSTRUCTOR HONORED Chris Barney the advocate

Forensics – the formal style of debate – is an art form. To some individuals, it is a joyous experience, to others, a terrifying challenge.

Either way, one important aspect is the chance to have a stupendous and inspiring coach and/or instructor.

Shannon Valdivia is one such instructor, whose teachings I have had the privilege of receiving.

In April, she was honored by the Phi Rho Pi National Forensics Honorary Organization with the Collie-Taylor Coach Fellowship Award. This is an award given to a coach deemed to be outstanding in the Phi Rho Pi’s National Community College Speech and Debate Tournament, held in Reno (at which Mt. Hood student Austin Schubert won three bronze medals.)

It was another significant accolade for Valdivia, who has led

Mt. Hood’s forensic program to all sorts of competitive success.

“It is an honor to be recognized by your peers and your students. It is also humbling – after all, I’m just doing my job,” she said. “I wouldn’t be where I [am] without the many students that I’ve had to work with.”

The award is a wonderful example of how passionate and dedicated Valdivia is, and has been.

Just as everyone else starts on their own journey, her forensics history began at a specific place.

“I had competed for a couple of years (as a student) and was encouraged by my mentor, Michael Dugaw, the former forensics teacher and coach at Lower Columbia Community College in Longview, Washington, to consider coaching.

“I initially thought he was crazy.

After graduate school, I gave it a shot and fell in love with it,” she said. “It is very rewarding to help students discover the power of the

spoken word and find their voice, while also developing a diverse set of speaking skills that can be used in a variety of settings.”

Valdivia has now served as an instructor and coach for a total 25 years: at LCCC, Clackamas Community College and at Mt. Hood for the past 22 years.

Asked what motivates her to keep on, she said, “Forensics is not for the weak of heart. It is very physically and mentally demanding.

What has kept me going for 25 years has been the students. When I see them grow and develop into amazing speakers – it keeps me coming back.”

Far beyond competition, Valdivia is passionate about public speaking as a valuable tool in many areas of life.

“There has never been a time when developing strong speaking skills has been [more] imperative.

Whether preparing to enter the

Staff Photo / the Advocate

workplace or to become an active participant in our democracy – it is time for folks to speak out and speak up!” she said.

As stated earlier, I had the privilege of sitting under her teaching. I still remember one class session that clearly demonstrated not only her abilities, but also that passion. She delivered a speech she wrote to demonstrate what she was expecting of class members for their first speech of the term. As she spoke, she had me mesmerized;

I felt like I had been a witness to the events she unraveled for the class. Needless to say, I was struck... speechless.

Valdivia is truly a gem in the world of public speaking.

As for advice she has for potential students or competitors, she offered this: “Never underestimate your abilities. You have something important to share with the world.

Speak even if your voice shakes.

Speak truth to power, but make sure you can back it up!”

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

A D V O C AT E - O N L I N E . N E T

MIXING IT UP THIS MOTHER’S DAY Chloe Collins the advocate

Graphic by Svetlana Meshcheryakova/ the Advocate

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Mother’s Day is upon us (yes, Sunday, May 12), and I’m here to tell you that flowers and brunch are old.

Here in the Portland metro area, the city is bustling with different activities and restaurants.

Portlanders do not have to settle for buying a bouquet and taking our mothers out to brunch.

Don’t get me wrong; brunch is delicious.

However, there are so many options when it comes to showing your mother she is appreciated on this special day.

If you feel like mixing it up for Mother’s Day 2019, allow me to pitch some ideas.

Try treating your mom to “tea and bubbles.”

Pix Pâtisserie Bakery and Bar in Portland will be hosting a Mother’s Day tea party. Cost of admission is $40 for adults and $18 for children, which includes 10 sweet and savory snacks, one pot of Townshend’s tea, and a glass of sparkling wine. Minors attending the event will receive six snacks and a non-alcoholic beverage.

Reservations are required, and can be scheduled for one of three different time slots.

Does your mom enjoy a good string band from time to time? This year for Mother’s Day, you can take your mom to the 2019 Bridgetown Bluegrass Festival. There will be 15 bluegrass bands performing on two different stages.

Vendors will be selling beer, cider, and food.

This all-ages event is set to be held at the Alberta Abbey Art Center in Portland. The festival takes place the day before Mother’s Day and runs

from 10 a.m. to midnight on Saturday. General Admission for adults is $22, $10 for children.

If your mom is musically inclined toward the classics, consider treating her to the Oregon Symphony this holiday. On Sunday the Oregon Symphony will bring the music, and Peer Gynt will bring the art. As the symphony plays, a retelling of the Norwegian fairytale, “Peer Gynt,” will be projected on the screens above the musicians. The concert begins at 2 p.m. at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland.

Perhaps your mom has a knack for creative art, and you should think about taking her to a painting event. Portland Cider Co. will be hosting a painting party to celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday. The class will be painting a rose topiary. Not only is this event open to anyone over the age of 10, but it is also a beginner’s class, so there’s no need to stress about skill level. The painting party will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and tickets cost $30 each. It is recommended that you arrive 30 minutes early for food and drinks.

Listen, some things were said about brunch and it seems necessary to clear the air: Brunch is amazing, and maybe your mom does love a good breakfast-and-lunch combo. In Portland this year, you can take your mom to brunch at the Crystal Ballroom, Portland’s Culinary Workshop, or even out to eat on a two-hour cruise.

So, you see, there are so many things to do with your mom this holiday. Regardless of where you end up spending time with her, your mom will enjoy your company, all the same.

SPORTS

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ONCE AGAIN, SAINTS BUILT FOR SUCCESS

Photo by Fletcher Wold / the Advocate

The Saints look to finish their season strong, with a doubleheader at home Friday at 4 and 7 p.m. against Clark College.

Benjamin Anctil the advocate

The Saints baseball team has had a phenomenal season so far with a record of 22-9 (12-4 in conference play), and has climbed into a first-place tie with Linn-Benton Community College with just four games remaining.

Veteran head coach Bryan Donohue has continually led Mt. Hood to regional titles, and this season could be no different.

“We’ve been dealing with some

injuries lately that have caused us to adjust some things here and there,” the coach remarked. “But the guys are playing good right now and I think more than anything else we’re just trying to get excited for the opportunity of finishing strong, hopefully winning a (South) region title.”

The Saints host Clark College in a double header Friday (games start at 4 and 7 p.m.) in their final games at Oslund Field, then play the Penguins twice again Saturday in Vancouver.

Donohue was asked the keys to

the team’s run this season.

“We’ve hit really well. Our offense has been consistently one of our best successes,” he said. “We’ve done a really good job of scoring runs consistently. Our defense has also proved to step up in big situations.

We’ve had some individual pitching performances that have been pretty special to get us the win against some teams we’ve really battled against.”

Pitching staffs at this college level are typically between eight and 10 guys, but a few Mt. Hood pitchers have really stood out, the coach said.

“Dawson Day (second in the NWAC with 91 strikeouts on the season) is one of our proficient pitchers who has also led our team in hitting (as an outfielder, batting .434 in South Region play). He’s been solid this season – dominant, really.

“We have had some other guys like Tyler Elliot, who stepped into a starting role for us and has been pitching consistently for us. Our closer Tucker Grote (five saves, with a 1.67 ERA) has also stepped up in some huge roles. He’s battling some arm issues right now but we hope to have him back by the end of this week.” Donohue paused to reflect for moment. “It’s been a lot of different

guys on different days that have been asked to step up and do a job for us and have really followed through, to execute,” he said.

With a program that has been so consistently successful through the years, it’s not a surprise that there are prospects on the Saints roster looking at moving on to play at the four-year university level.

“Most of our sophomores will be moving on. A lot of them are still trying to decide where they’re going to end up going. There are some pretty good universities that some guys are getting recruited by,” Donohue said. “Day is getting recruited by some big Division I schools; he’s trying to figure out what he wants to do.”

Already, pitcher Tyler Elliot has signed to play at Montana StateBillings, and outfielder Brian Rice has signed at the University of Jamestown, in North Dakota, said Donohue. “There are a handful of other guys that are talking with schools and just trying to figure out what the best spot for them is.”

In summing up the Saints, Donohue added, “I think the biggest thing about our team is that we’ve shown depth, not only on the

mound but as an offensive team, too.

It’s been fun to work with because they’re a lot of guys who just do what they need to do to help us succeed in every game.”

The Mt. Hood freshmen have also contributed to the team’s momentum.

The Advocate was able to interview a pair of first-year players. “The way we practice really leads us to success,” said outfielder Trevor Bentley. “We have a high intensity environment – we’re also a family.”

Bentley recalled a highlight earlier this week when the Saints played Everett on the road. “We had one inning left and we were down 3-1 and then we ended up scoring five, just like that,” he said. “We all just stepped up and contributed to play the team game.”

Pitcher Koben Jamison said, “As a team, hitting-wise, when we get going, we go strong. We’re able to hit the ball well. Defensive-wise we’re pretty solid in the middle of the field.

Our outfield covers all of it really well. Our pitching staff is playing great too, all of them.”

If there was one thing one could say to size up the Saints in 2019, Jamison said, “We’re a blue collar team and we work hard.”

BLAZERS BENCH MUST PRODUCE TO MOVE ON Julia Empleo the advocate

As of press deadline for the Advocate on Thursday, the Portland Trail Blazers were set to play Game 6 at home, looking to tie their second-round series with the Denver Nuggets after falling down, 3 games to 2, hoping to extend the series to a Game 7 in Denver.

Denver is a team that has given the Blazers trouble during the regular season, winning three of the four games they played. But, even just to set up that “matchup nightmare,” Portland had to overcome recent bad history.

The Blazers were swept both times in the first round the last two years; they ended the same place last year in the Western Conference (No. 3 seed) but were swept by the No. 6 New Orleans Pelicans, something most Portland fans would like to forget.

During the first round of this season’s playoff run, the Blazers faced the Oklahoma City Thunder, who finished sixth in the West. Most experts around the league gave the Blazers little chance to win this series, too, even with their higher seed, in large part because the past couple playoff appearance were so disappointing – something the Blazers were very aware of.

The Blazers have been a completely different team in these 2019 playoffs, however!

Portland came out strong and won the first two games at home, then lost Game 3 in Oklahoma City. There was a lot of trash talking by the Thunder’s Russell Westbrook, matched up with Damian Lillard in this series. Westbrook ended the regular season averaging a triple-double (double-digits in points, rebounds and assists each game) for third straight season. But that Westbrook was a no-show in this series, and even OKC’s AllStar forward Paul George, playing through a shoulder injury, wasn’t enough to contain Portland’s backcourt, who were phenomenal in this series.

Portland starting guards Lillard and CJ McCollum averaged 57 points per game for the series. After stealing a win in Oklahoma to take a 3-1 series lead, Lillard had a monster Game 5, back in Portland on April 23. The All-Star point guard scored 50 points and buried the game-winning, 37-foot 3-pointer over George (the Thunder’s best defender) as the final horn sounded. That shot sent the Blazers to the conference semifinals to face the Nuggets, who ground out a tough, seven-game series against the San Antonio Spurs.

Once again, the Blazers are fighting through adversity, as the Nuggets are a tough matchup. The Blazers backcourt has had a hard time finding its rhythm at the start of games because of what Denver’s defense, one

Photo by Fletcher Wold / the Advocate

of the best in the league all year, can do.

Since scoring 39 points in Game 1, Lillard hasn’t had a big game and CJ McCollum is trying hard to pick up the offense. The Blazers have won two games in this series – and not because of the backcourt dominating the game, but because of the other guys stepping up. They have to learn how to rely on each other more, offensively and defensively.

The Blazers bench is producing meaningful minutes in this series. Rodney Hood has been

particularly big, hitting a couple of clutch shots during Game 3 in Portland as the game went to four overtimes – the first time in the NBA playoffs since 1953. The Blazers were able to come out with the win thanks to Hood’s fresh legs, and were able to put to a stop a game that seemed like it would never end.

But with the Blazers losing twice since, they and Portland fans everywhere are hoping they can tie the series, and then finish the Nuggets on their home court, on Mother’s Day. PA G E 1 1

OPINION

A D V O C AT E - O N L I N E . N E T

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

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Photo by Maysee Thao / the Advocate

Mt. Hood full-time faculty union President Cheryl Johnson speaking during the rally on Wednesday, May 8 in the Main Mall on campus.

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The Senate must approve the bill before it can advance, however.

And Republican lawmakers have not shown up at the Capitol to vote, as of Advocate press time on Thursday. Although Democrats hold a “super majority” in Salem this year, the process requires a minimum number of legislators to be present, so the vote has essentially been put on hold.

While both sides have viewpoints to express, we can’t sit around waiting for our representatives to come together to support our schools. It’s sad that we can’t come together on this common issue that needs to be addressed.

One concern voiced by Republicans is that the new tax bill would hurt small business owners. It’s important to note that the bill does have a tiered system in place to more fairly tax businesses, according to lawmakers (from both parties) who helped write it.

Specifically: The smallest businesses would be exempt from the new tax completely. Those earning between $150,000 and $1 million per year would pay a flat fee of $250, while the largest would pay a percentage of revenue, between .37 percent and .45 percent.

As the Advocate noted in an editorial published earlier this year, Oregon has a track record of chronically underfunding its education system. This bill could help assist in updating educational systems and supporting K-12 students at risk of dropping out of school.

It’s also plain to see that community colleges are often overlooked when it comes to state funding. The legislative argument for not including higher education in the bill is because higher education can raise its own revenue by increasing tuition and fees. Indeed, MHCC has increased per-credit hour tuition by $31 since 2016.

The fact of the matter is that community colleges like Mt. Hood support those Oregon residents who need it most. We offer the most affordable option to those seeking higher education. Secondary education also benefits the community because it provides a trained workforce, giving back to the community at large. Maybe the state needs to think about K-14, not just K-12. Additional education for job preparation helps the state increase revenue and supports citizens by allowing those who need it most to move up the economic ladder.

To emphasize the college’s benefits, Mt. Hood full-time faculty union President Cheryl Johnson took time during the rally to speak about various programs it offers, including forestry, dental hygiene, machine tools, and funeral services. With each program she listed its value to the community, and the infrastructure needs at MHCC to update programs for safety and workplace needs.

Nicki Belnap was a key voice on Wednesday. An OEA organizer, she’s been a key figure on campus to help organize students and staff to demand more state funding. Asked what we as a community can do to be involved, she said, “Do something: Whatever level you are most comfortable with, just do something. Don’t just be passive.” She said students can be active by contacting legislators, voting in elections, and staying motivated through grassroots methods.

If you are a student or community member who wants to give the Legislature a piece of your mind, don’t be afraid to reach out to representatives by viewing the map at oregonlegislature.gov/FindYourLegislator/leg-districts.html which provides contact information. It’s time for Oregon to invest in our collective future and hold the private sector accountable by paying its fair share of taxes.