Western Oregon Journal (2010-2011) Issue 2

www.westernoregonjournal.comInside 2 News 4 Campus Life 6 Culture 8 Post 10 Sports

Vol.11 | Issue 2

Journalthe

We s t e r n O r e g o n U n i v e r s i t y

September 29, 2010Monmouth, Ore.

For the 11th year in a row, the Mel Brown Jazz Camp has yet again put smiles on the faces of a diverse group of campers. Held at Western from Aug. 1-7, this year’s camp accommodated 92 students ages 12 to 65. A chance to perform with legendary jazz musician Mel Brown was a huge opportunity for all who were involved. Brown has played and recorded with some of the classic R&B groups of the Mo Town era such as The Temptations.

There were no requirements for registering and attending the camp; all musical backgrounds and levels were desired and encouraged. Whether the campers had never played an instrument in the past or were attending the camp to perfect a hobby, the musical diversity is what makes this camp a treasure.

“The older campers usually have day jobs and play recreational, or they are teachers and they want to get more experience so they can go back and teach their students better,” explained graduate teaching assistant, Andreya Nicholson. “As for the younger kids, a lot of them play in their jazz bands [or] are heavily involved in the music departments at their schools. They don’t know if they’re going to be music majors or not.”

Nicholson had been prepping for a year to ensure this year’s camp ran as smoothly as possible. Her basic duties included all the business related items for the camp such as mailing letters and forms, printing brochures, recruitment, registration

JAZZSEE PAGE 7

Western’s campus and the greater Willamette Valley provide ample opportunities for students to stretch their bodies alongside their brains, and the inclusion of the new health and wellness center on campus this year will be a major enhancement to athletes and recreational exercisers alike.

Although the rainy Oregon weather delayed the construction process to a degree during the 2009-2010 academic year, the warm weather of this past summer allowed the workers from Hoffman Construction Company to make significant progress on the building.

“I use to take photos once a month [of the construction]. Now I take them every week,” Aquatics/Outdoor Program coordinator Melissa Ineck said. “There is just so much constantly changing.”

Director of Campus Recreation Rick Sedgwick seconded this opinion of the site’s rapid summer development.

“Inside the building you can actually see where the gym is going to be,

where the climbing wall will go . . . Each week I come back [to campus] on Monday and see what’s new.”

“It’s going to be amazing,” Campus Recreation student supervisor Sarah Turgeon stated during a tour of the building.

The building is currently scheduled for completion during winter term. While the classroom portion of the building – known on the construction sight as the ENG, or Education and General, wing – will be available for use at the beginning of winter term, the entirety of the building is scheduled to follow soon after.

“Right now we’re hearing mid-February,” Sedgwick stated with reference to the fitness portion of the center, commonly know as the REC wing among construction workers. “We’re hoping that date will be accurate, but it could move back due to weather conditions and other factors.”

The Wolverton Memorial Pool is also undergoing renovation at

this time, having closed during the early summer months and set to re-open in correlation with the REC wing.

“The pool has been given a face lift,” Ineck explained. “A lot of the work has been primarily mechanical changes. The patrons won’t see these changes, but they’ll definitely benefit from them.”

In addition to these hidden upgrades, a therapy pool is currently being installed beside the existing swimming pool, creating another valuable fitness resource for students and community members undergoing physical therapy.

Like the pool, Improvements were also made to Old P.E. during the summer.

“I don’t know if new students will be able to appreciate the changes that have taken place in Old P.E.,” Ineck stated. “But there are a lot of small changes that definitely add up.”

In particular, Sedgwick is excited for what the health and wellness center and all of

the associated renovations could mean for recreation on campus, emphasizing that the REC wing will not be shut down during the day for use by athletic teams, as is sometimes the case with the current weight room and other facilities on campus.

“[Athletic teams] will have their own space, so students can come work out at seven in the morning or sometime at night – whenever it fits into their schedule,” he said.

Among the activities that will be available once the HWC opens are cycling, aerobic dance, yoga, marital arts, Pilates, kickboxing, aquatics and a 40-foot high by 40-foot wide rock climbing wall.

“Once people see the rock wall and things like that, I’m hoping we’ll be able to increase other opportunities in our department,” Sedgwick stated.

One such potential enhancement Sedgwick has in mind is the addition of personal training

REDEFINING RECREATIONPaige O’Rourke | Editor-in-chief

CONSTRUCTIONSEE PAGE 5

Mel Brown musical camp brings diverse jazz ensemble to Western’s campus

Photo by | Emily Laughlin

What the Jazz is all ♪ about ♫

Chrisitina Tilicki

Campus Life Editor

As the 2010-2011 school year commences, construction of the new health and wellness center is staying strong

WEEKEND WEATHER

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

75° 51°

68° 48°

INSIDE >> NEWS

Learn more about how Western ranked number one in the nation for eliminating the graduation gap between Latino and white students.

SEE PAGE 2

Taking it to the top

CULTURE

Tree to Tree Aerial Adventure course in Gaston, Ore. gives Western students a chance to put their team building skills to the test.

SEE PAGE 6

From tree to tree

SPORTS

Missed the football game this weekend? Check out page 10 to see how the Wolves did against Humboldt State on Saturday, Sept. 25.

SEE PAGE 10

Wolves v. Humboldt

Juniors Travis Church, Justin Steckler and Jason Silver, senior Sarah Turgeon and Campus Recreation Director Rick Sedgwick tour the health and wellness center.

check us outONLINE

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2 NEWS September 29, 2010

www.westernoregonjournal.com

This past summer, Drs. Andrew Hacker and Claudia Dreifus completed their work entitled “Higher Education?: How Colleges Are Wasting Our Money and Failing Our Kids And What We Can Do About It.” This book questions the value of a student’s dollar when it comes to a college education. The cost of college has risen exponentially, more than doubling in the last 10 years alone. For this reason, it is not unusual for students to graduate with tens of thousands of dollars in debt before they land their first job.

If this is the price for a college degree, what are students getting for their money? What do students, and society, gain from a ‘higher education’? Is it

Western: A college that’s “doing it right”Andrew Hacker and Claudia Dreifus praise Western as being a university that has its students’ best interests and learning in mind

Jodessa Chapa | Freelancer

worth all of the money and time invested? Hacker and Dreifus sought the answers to these questions at different institutions across America over the last few years. This August, their findings were published.

Hacker and Dreifus asked the tough questions when it came to the quality of education and experience that students were being given at universities. At each school, they interviewed students and staff alike to get an idea of the universities’ policies. They found that some colleges were quite impressive, but most were disappointing. They arrived at a simple conclusion, stating that “colleges are taking on too many roles and doing none of them well . . . [They] have lost

track of their basic mission to challenge the minds of young people.”

Hacker and Dreifus offer up some tips for universities that include limiting outrageous stipends for administrators, widening the use of software programs in classrooms, engaging students and simply challenging students to pursue fields with a reputation for being impractical, like physical science and philosophy instead of a focus on vocational fields.

These suggestions, while simple in concept, often take a back seat at most universities.

In their search for answers, a few colleges and universities stood out from the rest and were listed as “doing it right.” Among this

list was Western Oregon University.

Hacker and Dreifus praised many features of Western, such as the dedicated faculty and staff, the number of first generation students, and the four year “tuition promise” to help lower the costs of a college education.

Students are able to get the best for their buck at Western because faculty and staff have the students’ best interests in mind. In contrast to many other universities which try to accomplish too many tasks, Western has not lost track of its mission, and continues to support students in their studies. For instance, faculty and

RECOGNITION SEE PAGE 3

At Western, students receive a personalized education, such as within HST 441: Aristophanes’ Athens taught by history professor Dr. Ben Lowe.

Across the nation, studies show that Latino students are less likely to graduate than white students in many universities. However, in a recent study by the Education Trust, several universities have been able to minimize this graduation gap, and some able to nearly eliminate it.

In this study, Western’s graduation gap was listed as -5.9 percent. This percentage means that graduation rates for Latino students are higher at Western than for white students. This is in contrast to almost every other university in the nation. Nationally, trends have shown that there has been a continuous gap between graduation rates.

“In reality, there shouldn’t be [a gap]… If you’re graduating from the same high schools taking the same courses, going to the same kinds of universities there is no logical reason for a gap based on preparation,” Associate Provost David McDonald stated. “In fact, what they found was there was a handful of schools, with Western being the most successful, that eliminate gaps and actually create educational environments for Latino students who were incredibly likely to graduate.”

Western has been

able to minimize the graduation gap because of the university’s mission to help students succeed.

“It’s not by accident we have the highest

likelihood of success because we have really made a commitment to have all of our students be successful regardless of ethnicity… any student that we admit should receive the necessary support to graduate,” stated McDonald.

One way Western creates a positive learning experience for students is

by having small classes. Students are able to interact with their professors and receive hands-on help when needed. Faculty and staff genuinely care for students

and their success is made a priority. Residence halls on campus also create a learning community for students. Students having support where they live is another way to positively impact and help increase graduation rates for all.

E x t r a c u r r i c u l a r activities, clubs and student leadership are all other ways for students

to become involved at Western and are places where they can find additional support. For example, the Student Enrichment Program

provides advising, assistance in filling out scholarship or graduate school applications and financial aid forms, courses for credit such as “Career Planning” and “Critical Thinking” and many more helpful tools. The Student Enrichment Program’s mission statement is, “to increase graduation rates among our students.”

MEChA is another resource for both white and Latino students that focuses on political activism and education of different cultures. Students are

encouraged to participate in activities such as marches or rallies for reforms and other political issues. Also, numerous activities are held throughout the year which encourage cultural education and diversity.

“There are so many people on campus who are committed to forming a bond with minority students and

Students gather for the first MEChA meeting of the 2010-2011 school year. MEChistAs advocate for political reforms and provide cultural education to students of all ethnicities.

aiding them in their academics and personal growth,” sophomore geography major and MECha member Shannon Grosse said. “Western acts as a community with many different types of neighborhoods that relate and interact with each other as often or infrequent as an individual chooses.”

Even prospective students can experience the support and encouragement that Western provides to its students. Preview days were created to give prospective students and their families a closer look at what the school can provide. Preview days have been a useful tool for Western because prospective students are able to make a better decision after seeing the campus, meeting students and faculty and talking to people who are leaders in programs such as our campus resources. Prospective students can see that Western is a place dedicated to its students, and many choose to go because of its promise of support for all students.

With the availability of countless resources, encouraging faculty and staff, small classes and a mission to support students through graduation and beyond, it is no wonder that Western is top in the nation for eliminating the graduation gap between students.

Taking it to the top: Eliminating the gaps in educationWestern recognized for having smallest graduation gap between White, Latino students in the nation

Kelsey Davais | News Editor





NEWS 3 September 29, 2010


Sullivan-Vance receives Gail Rola Memorial AwardAcademic Advising director Karen Sullivan-Vance is recognized for being a passionate leader

Karen Sullivan-Vance, the director of the Academic Advising and Learning Center, has been awarded the Gail Rola Memorial Award for 2010.

Despite her passion for her current occupation, Sullivan-Vance has not always worked in the advising field. When she graduated with her Bachelor of Arts, she worked with a seafood consulting firm, but she realized the job was not what she wanted to pursue. Since then, Sullivan-Vance has worked in many different college departments including admissions, financial aid, continued education and non-traditional student services. She realized a passion for advising while working at a school that did not provide advising services for part-time students.

“I was appalled,” stated Sullivan-Vance.

From that time on, Sullivan-Vance has been determined to provide the best advising facilities possible to all students. As an adviser, Sullivan-Vance does not want to simply check off boxes of requirements. She wants students to create their own goals, and she wants to help them achieve those goals.

“It’s such a privilege

Kelsey Davais | News Editor

to work with freshmen and transfer students. Everyone has dreams and goals, and you get invited to watch these students become incredible individuals,” explained Sullivan-Vance.

Since she was a first

generation student herself, Sullivan-Vance knows the importance of having that needed support throughout college. Sullivan-Vance appreciates that Western strives to assist all students, especially first generation students. Through her own struggles that she faced while in college, she has learned how to give support to others and uses her knowledge to help students from all backgrounds.

Because of her great effort to help students, Sullivan-Vance was given the Gail Rola Memorial Award this year. Some criteria for receiving the

award includes having a compassionate and caring attitude towards co-workers and students, creating a project of some sort that demonstrates the director’s goals for helping students, demonstrating inclusion

with both co-workers and students and other positive qualities.

Perhaps what is most unique about Sullivan-Vance receiving this award is that she did not know she had won it until a colleague called to congratulate her. At first, she did not believe it could be true and thought it was a mistake or must be a surprise since she was not told. She confirmed her colleague’s words by looking on Western’s website, where she read the press release about her receiving the award and cried when she realized it was true. Sullivan-Vance

later found out that a letter had been sent to her in May, but she never received it.

“I feel a sense of responsibility to Gail Rola to honor her. She was an incredible person,” stated Sullivan-Vance.

She plans to create a training opportunity to educate advisers and focus on assisting foster alums who are entering college in honor of Gail Rola and the award that she has received.

Students are not the only ones who benefit from Sullivan-Vance’s advising and leadership skills. Tamie Saffell, an academic adviser who works with Sullivan-Vance, has learned under her leadership.

“The best thing about working with Karen is her willingness to take on the role of being a mentor. In her role as the director, she allows her staff opportunities to develop on a professional level,” stated Saffell.

After being encouraged by Sullivan-Vance, Saffell turned in the necessary paperwork and was also given a national award for her advising abilities. Academic Adviser Andrea Nelson also appreciates the support Sullivan-Vance gives to her staff.

“She is concerned

not only with the work that needs to be done on a daily basis in our office, but is also very attentive to the professional development of all who work with and for her. She takes time with each one of us when we have questions large or small and also sets aside retreat days where we can meet as a team to discuss issues and develop long-term plans for both the office and ourselves as advising professionals,”

explained Nelson.Students and colleagues

alike believe Sullivan-Vance demonstrates the positive qualities described by the Gail Rola Memorial Award.

“The most important quality that makes Karen good at her job is that she truly cares about people,” said Saffell. “Whether it is her staff or a student, she will work with the person to help him or her grow so that the person can reach his or her full potential.”

“I liked the atmosphere of the college. Monmouth is a lot like my hometown. I like the small campus and that I can make a name for myself here.”

Ashley Holten, freshmanMajor: PsychologyHometown: Newport, Ore.

Gabe Bowlby, freshman Major: EducationHometown: Hillsboro, Ore.

“I took a year off of school in general, and my sister-in-law attends WOU and always talks about it. I decided to apply and I really like it. This place is a great learning environment. It’s a good community and the people are all really nice.”

Melissa Yager, freshmanMajor: NursingHometown: Olympia, Wash.

“I wasn’t really interested in any Washington schools and WOU has a great nursing program. I came to visit and I fell in love with the college. It’s small and friendly, and I love the people here.”

Curtis Harper, freshmanMajor: Criminal JusticeHometown: Heppner, Ore.

“WOU has a strong criminal justice program and I like the campus. My parents came here for the Police Academy, and so it’s always been an option for me. I like the environment here; its laid back and friendly.”

Kevin Brockman, juniorMajor: BusinessHometown: Gaffey, S.C.

“A college degree is important to me so I chose to come to WOU because it is inexpensive and still provides a great education.”

Kevin Swearingen, seniorMajor: Chemistry

“When I was applying to schools, some of them never even answered my inquiries; WOU never treated me like that. They are helpful and friendly. My professors know me by name, and I have made some great friends.”

Sara Chan, graduateMajor: PsychologyCountry: Malaysia

“WOU gives personalized attention to its students and the student to faculty ratio isn’t off the charts. I like Oregon’s weather and the school fits my needs.”

Q: Why did you pick Western?staff take time to get to know their students and give personal assistance. Staff makes students and their learning their priority, not research. This concentration on student success is what truly sets Western apart from other universities.

Dr. Kent Neely, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, has read “Higher Education?” and strongly agrees with the facts written about Western.

With a long-standing background in higher education, Neely knows about the challenges that schools face. The most important question for a college still remains ‘Are you servicing the student?’ Neely feels that Western has got it right when it comes to running a college “without a lot of fluff.” Here, students receive individual attention from professors and staff; they don’t fade into a sea of other students. The

professors and educators also focus on actively participating in the research and development of their field.

“It’s high time someone noticed!” English professor Dr. Gavin Keulks stated.

Keulks went on to say that this kind of attention is “personally gratifying” and “hugely satisfying,” commenting that “If you want to identify quality, look for things that grow during difficult times. Anything can grow when conditions are perfect.”

Although the current economy is less than ideal, Western has done its best to keep working hard and moving forward. Keulks feels Western has a “rare but blessed trinity” made up of an exemplary faculty, student body and administrative team.

“Quite simply, there’s no other public university in Oregon that is more deserving of its students,” Keulks said.

This kind of national praise is flattering, but what effect will this attention

have on the university in the long run?

University President John Minahan saw an opportunity in Western when he began work as the Dean in the late 1980s. Today, the school has changed immensely and is being recognized for its achievements. President Minahan hopes that the unexpected praise will fuel more confidence in the faculty here at Western.

“Most of them don’t realize how good they really are,” he stated.

When asked how Western compares to other schools in his experience, Minahan said that he never tried to make Western imitate any other schools.

“We are not a little Harvard or Stanford,” Minahan stated. “[College] strengths are individual, [and] ours is in our faculty.”

For more information on “Higher Education?,” check out highereducation questionmark.com for the latest blog entries by Hacker and Dreifus, interviews with the authors and reviews.

RECOGNITION FROM PAGE 2

AALC director Karen Sullivan-Vance was honored to be a recipient of the Gail Rola Memorial Award for excellence in advising and leadership.

““The most important quality that makes Karen good at her job is that she truly cares about people. Whether it is her staff or a student, [Karen] will work with the person to help him or her grow so that the person can reach his or her

- Tamie SaffellAcademic Adviser

full potential.”


4 CAMPUS LIFE


September 29, 2010

Being as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible has long been a goal of faculty, staff and students at Western. In recent years, many new systems and projects have been implemented to help the campus reach these goals. Ackerman Hall, the upcoming Health and Wellness Center, the recycling system and a new composting system are just a few of the ways Western is going green.

Redefining what it means to have a “green thumb”As Western’s campus becomes more environmentally-minded, growth in sustainability efforts occurs

Christina Tilicki | Campus Life Editor

- Throw anything that can be recycled into the blue bins in classrooms and dorm rooms (this includes glass, plastic, paper and metals)- Buy in bulk- Use reusable shopping bags- Participate in the composting system in Valsetz- Only buy what you need- Avoid purchasing products with flashy packaging

Expensive tastes: campus cateringCatering costs at Western require facility users to maximize budgets.

Healther Worthing | Freelancer

The mission of Western’s campus dining and catering is to “Exceed customer’s expectations.” But on campus, clubs are finding too often that campus catering is likewise exceeding food budgets.

“Participating in campus dining is usually a very positive experience,” said the WUC’s Facilities Scheduling and Program Manager, Kathy Bolan. “Students enjoy the wholesale price compared to retail, and convenience plays a role also.”

Freshman Ally Sanders agrees, “The variety that is offered throughout the day is

great; from grilled food to smoothies you always have a tasty choice.”

For clubs though, the price of catering events can at times discourage gatherings with food and beverages. With prices such as $15.00 for a gallon of orange juice, $10.00 for lemonade and $2.00 for a bagel, club leaders are finding that over half of a clubs budget goes to refreshments, making it difficult to have reasonable spending on recruitment, promotion and whatever the clubs ultimate goal is.

With only a few exceptions, clubs are

required to utilize campus dining opposed to bringing their own food. This is mostly due to safety and liability concerns. There have been negative responses to this policy.

“We have lost business due to costs,” Director of Food Services Karen J. Nelles stated.

Despite the option of “No Frills Dining” where a group picks up food in the kitchen and food is served on paper only, the costs are still too high for some clubs.

Multicultural Student Union member Paula Sumoza said, “Our budget is tight, the majority of

time we can only afford the cheapest choice on the menu, pasta. It would be nice to have something other than pasta occasionally.”

Food is a vital part to any culture and being able to share and explore those differences of palette is a responsibility for a multicultural club. However, WOU catering does not offer the desired choice at times and so outside sources must be appealed to.

“It would be ideal if WOU catering offered more cultural diverse food at a more affordable price,” reflected Sumoza.

One of the many electric carts used by Physical Plant employees at Western; yet another way Western does what it can to go green.

Regular and Decaf Coffee …….. $12.00 per gallonHot Chocolate or Hot Cider ........ $9.00 per gallonApple or Orange Juice ………… $15.00 per gallonFresh Bagels w/Cream Cheese...$16.50 per dozenYogurt and Granola Bar………... $6.25 per personBelgian Waffle Breakfast……..... $9.95 per personBoxed Lunch …………..........… $8.95 per personSoup and Salad Bar……………. $9.95 per personPasta Selections………....…… $ 10.95 per person16” Pepperoni Pizza………..........….......... $15.95Chicken Dinner………………... $10.95 per personRoasted Pork Loin Dinner…..... $13.95 per personGourmet Cheese & Cracker Display ….... $118.00 (serves 40-45)Deli Meat & Cheese Tray …..............…... $140.00 (serves 40-45)Ice Cream Sundae Bar ...………. $3.75 per person

Quick Facts: What you can do to help Western go green

Catering Costs at Western

Additional projects that have been executed around campus are sustainable metal and plastic benches that are made out of recycled milk cartons as well as trash/recycling receptacles. As the faculty and staff sees fit and as budget allows, more of these green trash/recycling stations will be added in which students have the option of throwing away garbage into one bin and recycling glass, plastic or aluminum into another.

Sustainable lighting is another project that is new to Western. The older globe-style lamp posts are being replaced with more energy efficient, LED lamp posts that are styled so there is no way for the light to go upwards. Not only is the light directed towards the ground, but it is great for students and community members who enjoy star-gazing as the light doesn’t obstruct the opportunity to view the stars. More of these lamp posts will be gradually added throughout campus as funds become available.

New bike shelters and bike racks are another project that Tom Neal, director of the Physical Plant has been recently working on. Wanting to go through local metal fabricators to make the costs of putting in bike shelters more affordable, Neal has a number of places throughout campus he hopes to build these shelters.

The replacement of the current bike racks with something that is more secure is an ongoing mission.

“You’ll notice that this new style is placed outside the new Ackerman Hall,” explained Neal. “It’s more secure for your bike, you can lock up frame, tire, the whole thing to it rather than the old style we have out there where only the tire went in it and people would have their bikes kicked over, their tires would get bent.” In addition, this put the bikes at risk of easily getting stolen. With only the front tire secured versus the frame, all one would have to do is unhook the tire and walk off with a new bike.

“We have a local firm we work with for the bike racks,” Neal went on to say. “Part of sustainability is trying to do as much locally as you can. So, we’re working with a local firm to bend the metal and create the hoops for the locking.” Building more secure bike racks and situating bike shelters throughout campus is an attempt to encourage students to ride their bikes to and around campus rather than driving their cars. Not only do students get more exercise this way, it is also a great way to be environmentally friendly.

Along with eco-friendly buildings such as Ackerman Hall and the future Health and Wellness Center, these new programs help Western stay green. Short-term goals such as continuing the recycling system, further developing the composting system and building more bike racks and energy-efficient campus lighting are a few of the ways Western does what it can to be as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible. Students, community members, faculty and staff can all do their part by using these systems.

SEEING GREEN: THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABILITY AT WESTERN

New to Western is the collection of organic material for compost that has been implemented in Valsetz. The ultimate goal of the composting system is to be able to use organic food waste, grass clippings, chips from branches and leaves for compost to use throughout campus. Eventually, a system will be built to continuously turn and mix the organic waste to ensure it breaks down into the best organic compost.

It takes an average of one year for organic compost to become ready for use. The goal of this composting area is to have three stations: one for dumping fresh waste and gradually turning it, one for turning waste that is already breaking down and a final station for ready to use compost.

COMPOSTING

During New Student Week, the Green Team held a session educating new students on how Western stays green and how students can get involved. Sophomores Maija Kellner and Brandy Quinn along with Junior Chenise Crockett were the presenters of this seminar and, through a well developed power point presentation, were able to educate a great turnout of students.

Kellner started the presentation by informing students of Green Team’s goals.“We are the students here at Western Oregon who are involved in preserving the

environment and getting more people aware about recycling and living sustainably.”The Green Team is responsible for daily recycling collections, cleaning the recycling

center and educating students around campus about the recycling system and living green. The recycling system which the Green Team is responsible for maintaining has their main recycling center at the Physical Plant located by the residence halls. Smaller, blue recycling bins are located throughout campus in classrooms, in the WUC, Valsetz dining hall and green topped bins are along the walkways throughout campus.

THE GREEN TEAM



September 29, 2010 CAMPUS LIFE 5

CONSTRUCTION FROM PAGE 1

sessions that “majors from the Health and PE department could use as internships.”

Another possibility is an indoor triathlon held during the fall or winter terms. Another possibility is an indoor triathlon held during the fall or winter terms.

“It’s something that I’ve heard taking place on military bases, but I think it would be a good opportunity to have another big event [like the outdoor triathlon in the spring] for students to take part in,” Ineck said. “It may not happen the first year the facility is open, but certainly in later years. I

While much attention has been given to the construction of the Health and Wellness Center (HWC) and Ackerman Hall, several other areas of campus have been upgraded throughout the summer. One such building is Bellamy Hall, more commonly referred to as HSS, where Fortis Construction has been working throughout the spring and summer terms to refurbish the building inside and out and improve upon some of its existing elements.

“[The recent changes to] HSS was Phase Two of a two phase project to renovate the building as far as energy upgrades and seismic upgrades,” Physical Plant Facilities Engineer Paul Finke stated.

Finke explained that Phase One of these upgrades took place in 2008 and consisted of seismic upgrades to the first floor, allowing for greater floor space and the inclusion of a faculty wing in which the Speech and Communications department is now housed.

Phase Two, which began in April with the closing of the third floor, focused on energy upgrades to the entire classroom portion of the building.

“[We] added insulation, replaced the antiquated phase [vacuum] system with new air handler equipment visible on the roof, and added new windows, new wall finishing, ceiling tiles and lights,” Finke said.

In addition to these inside upgrades, the outside of the building now dons the familiar red brick design that Western’s campus is so well known for, although with a unique architectural design surrounding the first floor windows.

While still undergoing “little touch ups here and there,” Finke explained that the renovations to the building are basically complete, with the university having obtained the certificate of occupancy needed to allow students, staff and faculty back into the building for fall term.

A sizable crowd gathered for the Ackerman Hall Dedication Ceremony that took place last Thursday, Sept. 23, on the south side of the building. Attendees included faculty, staff and student members, representatives from Maylem and Lease Crutcher Lewis (LCL) Construction companies and descendants of past University President John Henry Ackerman.

“This project has been about the challenges presented to us from nearly day one,” Dean of Students and Judicial Affairs Tina Fuchs stated during her ceremonial speech. “Did we expect to design a full live/learn center? No, not initially, but our students wanted it . . . It would have been irresponsible for us not to pursue a live/learn residence hall community. . . And, after two years of design and construction, we can tell our students we

would be very interested in taking that on.”

However, both Sedgwick and Ineck acknowledge that an abundance of exercise/recreational activities does not come without a price tag.

“There will be a lot of opportunities for new programs, and it will mean an increase in student fees, but we are trying to keep the expenses as low as possible for students,” Sedgwick said.

The interviewing process for a facility director commenced this week. Current applicants include Ruth Olson, N. Beth Hawk and H. Rip Ripley, with the fourth and final applicant set to be announced later this week and the interview scheduled for Monday, Oct. 4.

Sedgwick stated that he hopes there will be a fair amount of student involvement in the decision process.

Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Gary Dukes stated that a final decision on who to hire will be determined in the upcoming weeks, with the chosen individual scheduled to begin working for the university in early November. This will allow the new director plenty of time to figure out the logistics of hiring staff and running the health and wellness center.

For more information and to view developments on the construction site, be sure to check out: http://www.wou.edu/press_r e l e a s e / c o n s t r u c t i o n /health_wellness.php.

Teaching old buildings new tricksBellamy Hall and West House receive renovations

Paige O’Rourke | Editor-in-chief

Ackerman Hall Dedication Ceremony makes the cutStill working toward “LEED Platinum” status, Ackerman Hall undergoes official ribbon-cutting ceremony

Paige O’Rourke | Editor-in-chief

delivered on that promise.”Fuchs’ words, alongside

a variety of other faculty, staff, student and community voices, marked the swearing in of Ackerman as not only Western’s newest residence hall, but as a unique and defining aspect of the campus.

Still, though the building has been labeled complete by many, it has yet to receive the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum status. As many of the ceremony’s speakers remarked, should the building follow the necessary procedures to earn the coveted title, it will be the first construct in the nation to do so.

“When it comes to a project like this, there’s no substitute for flat out brightness and hard work,” University President John Minahan stated. “People are enjoying this building beyond what we expected.

To me it’s magic to see this theory come to life with our students breathing in it, living in it, smiling in it and learning in it. I am privileged to be a part of the incredibly complex organism that made this happen – because that’s what it is, a community of folks and energy that brought this building into existence.”

Among those of the Ackerman lineage present during the ceremony were great-grandchildren Jim Carlton, Fred Carlton and Pat Cooper, all of whom spoke on behalf of their great grandfather.

“Having this building named after our grandfather is a distinct honor,” Fred Carlton stated, going on to add that he believes “Ackerman would be proud to hear his name associated with something for the future, and not just something to recognize his past . . . What this building represents is a community.

It represents an ideal and it represents a future.”

From students who simply enjoy spending time in their rooms to those who feel the need to shouting out how much they “love this building!”, the near completion of Ackerman Hall’s construction process

marks the beginning of an opportunity for a change in the way that Western views itself, and, in turn, in the way it is viewed by others.

“Behind me stands not just another residence hall, but a mark of change – a time where WOU is the leader and other schools

can look to us,” Residence Hall Association (RHA) president and senior Lindsey Gibson stated. “It is a launching point for us to begin a new era of environmental and civic responsibility, both for on-campus living and within the community.”

An artist’s rendition of the completed health and wellness center includes a 40-foot high by 40-foot wide rock climbing wall, indoor running track, cycling room and plenty of lounge areas for students to relax between activities.

Past university president John Henry Ackerman’s great-grandchildren Fred Carlton, Pat Cooper and Jim Carlton participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside Residence Hall Association president Lindsey Gibson.

BELLAMY HALL (HSS)

WEST HOUSE

Home to the offices of the Business and Economics program, West House has been newly refurbished by LCG Pence Construction.

“We moved the faculty out right after commencement,” Finke stated, going on to say that “the primary scope of that project was renovation and ADA [American’s with Disabilities Act] improvements.”

ADA improvements included the construction of a new ramp leading into the first floor of the building and the creation of ADA compliant restrooms.

In addition to making the building more accessible to those with disabilities, Finke explained that the building has been “totally re-wired,” with West House previously containing the original knob and tube wiring installed during the building’s initial construction in the 1920s.

Energy-efficient lights were also added alongside a general refurbishment of the offices, the installment of fire sprinklers, the addition of new wall siding to replace the vinyl siding that was cracking and the creation of a conference room for the Business and Economics program.


Photo courtesy | wou.edu

6 CULTURE September 29, 2010


A Friend in Every TreeSydni Wiese | Culture Editor

“I don’t think any place smells quite as fresh as Oregon does,” said junior Samantha Rhon, returning to Western for the third year of her business degree plan. Originally from West Jordan, Utah, Rhon was ecstatic to arrive once again at her “second home.”

As part of the “Welcome to School” celebration, perspective trips were set up at the end of New Student Week as a last hurrah before school began. Students were invited to attend the Tree to Tree Aerial Adventure Course, the Lloyd Center and Portland Zoo, or participate on a Service trip on Saturday, September 25, 2010.SAY HI TO HEIGHTS The Tree to Tree

Adventure Course was a popular excursion. Students were challenged physically by being strapped into a harness and “set loose” (according to multiple students) amidst an obstacle course set high in the trees, in Gaston, Ore. “Everyone must work

together to complete the course,” said freshman participant Chelsea Kays. “It’s based on team work. You choose your own course and how challenging it is by taking different pathways. It’s not something I’d recommend for someone who hates heights, that’s for sure!” Moving literally from

tree to tree, students crossed the playground above the earth through the use of platforms, tight rope walks, rickety bridges and even swinging ropes. Most agreed that the experience was thrilling, and exceptionally challenging.

“I loved it!” said Jeremy Alverez, a freshman Chemistry major. “It was such a challenge, but so much fun to get through. These guys [freshmen Max Richards and Sasha Giggens] are like my new best friends. I’m not afraid of heights, but there were some moments…they were there for me and really made me feel comfortable. We had an awesome time—I hope I get to go back.”ROARING INTO TOWN

What more could you ask for in a welcome than to be greeted by the roar of a tiger? Although students may have had the pleasure of hearing the deep voice of the big cats at the Portland Zoo, the trip into Salem’s neighboring city was a joy.

“I’ve lived here my whole life,” said freshman Mark Provenzano, “But this is the first time since I was about eight I’ve been to the zoo. It was a pleasure to go back and remember the good times and see what’s changed. Who really could get tired of the animals anyways? Besides, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a real live cheetah before. That was worth it right there.”

Lloyd Center Mall and the Portland Zoo may not have had the flare of a new theme park, but students felt they were able to make the best possible memories on a beautifully sunny afternoon in autumn.

“Downtown Portland is a little different than Salem,” said freshman Scott Shane who is originally from Hawaii. “I thought that Salem would be bigger than the majority of the cities just because it’s the capital. I guess that was naive of me, because I felt

like I was a small particle in the air when we were there; I think it was a good first experience. It opened my eyes a little.”CREATING SMILES

Serving others is a big part of the Western student community. Volunteering to help one another create a better environment and healthier lives, has been one of the values Western strives to uphold; it was a value the excursion crew did not forget.

Splitting into three teams, participants on the service trip chose to aid the Polk County community by fixing up an after school facility, playing games and doing crafts with children in Independence, and a third group worked in a community garden in Salem. Volunteers were given a free t-shirt and enjoyed a group lunch at the end of the morning.

“Volunteering is something we value very highly at Western,” said PLUS Team member, Johnathon Farmer. “There’s an old saying that goes, ‘We ware only as strong as our weakest link.’ I think that saying couldn’t be more true, or important. I’m glad we had the option for students to experience how the campus branches out to help others, much like many of us did in high school. Furthering your education doesn’t always have to be about book learning.”ENDING THE WEEK While New Student Week

has always had a record of beginning the year with a blast, the final trips were a hit with everyone who participated. “We began the year with adventure, together,” said Kays.

Students form tight bonds through a team effort

(Above) Freshman Ally Summers gets ready to swing down one of the ropes at the Tree to Tree Adventure Park while a supervisor keeps watch. (Below) Sophomore Kaleb Johnson climbs up one of the park obstacles.

Photos by | Sydni Wiese

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CULTURE 7September 29, 2010


JAZZFROM PAGE 1

processes and many more small tasks that make a huge difference in the overall execution of the camp.

Faculty and staff that were involved with the camp included a variety of instructors that have performed with Mel Brown, teach as faculty members at Western and are professional recording artists. Brown was the creative director this year and Gordon Lee was the chief administrator and logistic director who is also a part-time faculty member at Western.

“I teach Beginning Musicianship, Jazz History, Music Improvisation [and] private jazz piano lessons [at Western],” said Lee.

As the chief administrator of the camp, which is a full-time job, Lee was unable to teach any courses for the camp this summer. However, many of the instructors are local musicians that came from Western.

The camp also boasted a “camp mom” who was in charge of making sure that some of the younger campers had a nurturing figure to turn to for help. Camp counselors stayed in the dorms with the campers and were

there to help the students in any way possible.

This year, the cost of the camp was $695. Upon registration, campers were required to put down a $100 deposit and had the opportunity to pay the rest of the amount in installments. A great program, particularly for younger campers; the chance to save up to pay for the camp made attending a reality.

“It does seem like a huge chunk of money but for the amount of instruction that the kids are getting at this camp, it’s invaluable,” said Nicholson. “They get free lessons and they get

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time with some of the top recording artists in the Pacific Northwest. Camps like this is where I learned to become a musician. This is where I fell in love with music.”

Individuals who participate come into the camp with a preconceived notion of what jazz is and they learn what a huge variety of music can be considered “jazz.”

The camp started off with registration and placement. Depending on the musical instrument played and skill level, campers were placed into a master class, a large and a small ensemble for rehearsals. Elective courses

and private lessons were also offered as well as plenty of practice time for students. After a week of practice and rehearsals, friends and families of the campers were invited for a day of performances in Smith Auditorium.

Not only do the students have an opportunity to learn a variety of musical techniques, life skills are also on the agenda – particularly for the younger campers. The students learn how to take what they are good at, and share those skills with others. Self-esteem, self-worth, social skills, determination and a

new love for music are some of the many skills these younger campers developed as a result of the camp.

Feedback from the campers and faculty was mutual. The campers loved the event and many of them, particularly the younger students, are very excited to come back to learn even more next summer.

“The faculty and staff felt this was a very good year that ran very smoothly,” Lee stated. “There were lots of young teens, which we like to have. This means that many will come back in future years.”

Photos courtesy | Dustin Willetts

8 POST September 29, 2010


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A bridge for cross-cultural friendshipI am a Chinese

exchange student at Western, and I have been here for almost one year. Sometimes I feel alone because I feel isolated and misunderstood. I am willing to make friends with locals and try to show my friendliness, but I still cannot make friends like the ones I have in China.

This phenomenon is common among many Chinese international students. What makes the two countries’ young people have difficulties in becoming friends? In my opinion, the reasons are cultural differences and Chinese students’ English language skills cause difficulties in communicating; however, is there any action that should be taken beyond Chinese students themselves? Does Western have responsibilities to help build up the relationship between international and domestic students when Western enrolls more and more international students year after year? Do domestic students have responsibilities in building relationships with international students? I believe the answers are “Yes.”

According to Western’s database, there are over

300 international students from 22 different countries while there are over 6,000 undergraduate students total. How can Western help U.S. students know more about foreign cultures as well as international students adapt to U.S. life? There is a good solution to solve the problem easily: Western could do better advertising local events and activities such as international movie night to give more information to international students and encourage them to attend the activities like U.S. students.

Western is a mid-size university with many activities; they may feel like they cannot spend too much time or money for international students. I still believe it is reasonable to take their parts in building the relationship between international and native students. Sometimes paying means benefits. First, better advertising like providing more cards, more posters and more mailings will not cost too much money. All of these can have an effect on income and attendance for events and activities. Also, these solutions can help enhance the communication between

international students and native students and help international students adapt to U.S. culture much more quickly. In addition, U.S. students would know more about the world beyond the U.S.

I am encouraging Western to take some action to build the relationship bridge. Domestic students act like hosts providing support to international students who must strengthen their skills like the deck of a bridge. Western connects everyone together like cables of the bridge.

U.S. students should be open-minded to exchange students. International students are unavoidably shy because of their language skills. But actually, they wish to blend in with U.S. students. Not only will U.S. students gain more information about the whole world by paying attention to helping and communicating with international students, but international students will have a more fantastic experience while studying abroad because of cross-cultural friendship. Let us build this friendship bridge together.

Zhilin Li | Guest columnist

Bungee jumping: Going over the edge

with a smile

My dad began by saying, “Now, why would you want to jump off a perfectly good bridge?”

I responded with a smirk, “The same reason why people jump out of perfectly good airplanes.”

Bungee jumping was an adrenaline rush that I had always thought of going through with. This past summer I finally had the means, the money and a friend crazy enough to join me in accomplishing this thrill. People that

Blakelee McCulley | Copy Editor

have known me since I was a baby thought I was crazy and commented, “I didn’t realize you were such a thrill seeker.”

I’ll admit, I’m a closet thrill seeker. I was always the kid who wanted to go on all of those scary, cool rides at the county fair that not one of my friends would join me on. So this summer, I decided to jump off a bridge. No

BUNGEE JUMPINGSEE PAGE 9

Photo courtesy| Blakelee McCulley

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September 29, 2010


POST 9

World-class performers from Cirque du Soleil, Moscow Circus and others in their newest show, Boom Town – a jaw-dropping stage spectacular perfect for audiences of all ages. Performers fl y fast and climb high with an agility

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Tickets: $29 ($11 students)

Coming next: Bluegrass with The Travelin’ McCourys–Dec. 4

Call 503-838-8333 • www.wou.edu/sfa

October 4, 7:30 p.m.Rice Auditorium, Western Oregon University, Monmouth

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Mt. Hood OHV usesignificantly limited.

About time.Mt. Hood National Forest cuts back miles for off highway vehicle use from approximately 2,500 to 146

Christina Tilicki | Campus Life Editor

I backpack, I camp and I hike. Growing up in the Willamette Valley, I was outdoors as much as possible. My family didn’t own a computer until I was in high school and we never owned a game console. Cable TV was a luxury I never knew until I had to pay the bill myself. The primary source of entertainment I partook in was anything and everything outside.

On outings with family and friends, my sister and I were raised to use our own two feet. Not only did my parents consider off-highway vehicles (OHV) such as ATVs and dirt bikes a dangerous waste of money, it was a way to be lazy. That philosophy has stuck with me and I scowl at the mere sight of tire tracks in the mud and the distant sound of a peace-disturbing engine.

Once home to roughly 2,500 miles of roads and trails accessible to OHVs, the Mount Hood National Forest is significantly limiting this access to a mere 146 miles. My initial reaction to this news? About time.

OHV drivers cause environmental damage, scare wildlife, cause considerable amounts of unnecessary noise, create illegal and injurious trails through meadows and streams and endanger hikers. One of 12 national forests implementing an OHV plan, Mount Hood National Forest has gone to considerable lengths in an attempt to preserve the natural beauty this region boasts.

Conservation and environmental groups are obviously in favor of this new plan as well as those who own land in the area and have to deal with trespassing riders

on a regular basis. Those opposed? OHV users. Arguments this group of ignorant, careless individuals have been using include: having paid their OHV fees, they have every right to use the land as they see fit, the plans will encourage rouge trail-making, OHVs cause less litter and environmental damage than hikers and horses and OHV use is the only way for certain individuals to enjoy the gorgeous scenery.

I will address the final argument first as this is the only argument I agree with, to an extent. There are individuals who, due to physical disabilities, are unable to go on a hike or a camping trip. For example, a paraplegic would not be able to take his or her wheelchair onto narrow wilderness trails. One of the only alternatives to enjoy nature is to ride an ATV in that area. For this tiny group, I truly sympathize. I cannot imagine what it would be like to want to enjoy the beauty that surrounds us and be unable to do so.

I sympathize if you are one of the few OHV users who stays on designated trails, do not leave your trash scattered throughout the forest and cause immense environmental havoc. However, if you partake in any of these activities, I offer no sympathy. Hikers and backpackers have to pay for forest passes and day-use fees as well.

Whining about how you have to pay to use the trails doesn’t fly with me. If the new plan is properly enforced, rouge trail-making will not happen and penalties will apply. Many riders feel they are above the law and will try to tear up the land regardless of an established plan or not.

Any outdoorsman who has seen a wilderness trail and then has seen a wilderness trail after a dirt bike has raged through it will understand the extreme environmental damage these machines cause. I have backpacked through the Three Sisters Wilderness area in the Willamette National Forest and have passed horseback riders. Horses cause little to no damage compared to OHVs. In addition, many horseback riders steer clear of certain areas because their horses get spooked by OHVs. How is that fair? Horses stand to cause the most damage when the trails are wet and susceptible to erosion. Unlike OHV riders, horseback riders respect these wilderness areas and rarely ride when there is this danger.

Litter disgusts me. I am not saying that OHV riders are the only people who litter in our forests, but from my experience, they are the worst. They zoom into untouched areas trying to be all macho, chug down a 24 pack of cheap beer and are too lazy to pack their garbage out. I’ve seen it firsthand and am sick of it.

To angered OHV users who have followed designated roads and do not make their own trails, I say this: blame the irresponsible, selfish OHV riders who have ruined it for you. For those OHV riders who are perfectly happy ruining the environmental habitat of these flourishing forests: good riddance.

to go. My friend went first. He’s always been afraid of heights, but he made it back alive after his two jumps with only a couple tears shed along the way.

Yes, that’s right, not one, but two jumps.

The first jump we were instructed to “picture Superman, Wonder Woman, Xena Warrior Princess, whatever gets you over the edge.” It was simple enough. So, as I climbed over the bar of the bridge and onto the platform, I imagined flinging myself over the edge like Superman.

Before I knew it, the man was counting down: “In three, two, one!” I flew through the air and began screaming, letting go of everything and trusting in my bungee cord to not let me down.

The feeling was close to flying. Until I got closer to the bottom, gravity was pulling at my every nerve, and I felt like it would last forever - until the first bounce. Several choice words were screamed as I rebounded back into the air, at the speed of 70 mph, and fell back down towards the earth again. This continued several more times before they sent a rope with a carabiner attached to it in order to reel me back up.

Then came the second jump, for which we had been instructed to “pretend as if you were doing a stunt for a movie and there’s a big explosion, and just explode backwards.” So this time I went off backwards, looking up at the bridge as I fell. About halfway down I realized I hadn’t made a peep

yet, which I corrected quickly by letting loose a terrified scream. I laughed and cursed as I bounced up and down like a yo-yo.

Afterwards, one of the members of the bungee crew asked which jump I liked better. I responded by saying breathlessly, “The second one.” It’s only slightly more reassuring when you can’t see the ground below and are staring into the overcast sky above.

My blood was pumping and the adrenaline rush was still coming when I was “initiated” into the Dangerous Sports Club by being handed a gray tank top with the bungee.com logo on the back and a card with my name on it. I was grinning from ear to ear; I was ready to go again.

This makes me wonder what thrilling adventure I’ll go on next and who I’ll bring with me. Sometimes people have to experience a thrill, something that scares them, a dream that has yet to be fulfilled. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Do one thing everyday that scares you.”

Have you done something today that has scared you? If not, perhaps you should. Do more than average; do something extraordinary, like bungee jumping. (Of course, if anyone is interested in bungee jumping, let me know; if I bring two friends, I get one jump for free!)

exceptions. Something inside of me was begging me to go. So I went. Luckily, the directions to the jump point were easy to follow, and my friend and I made it without the least bit of trouble.

Once we got there, it was quite a surprise to see at least 20 other fellow jumpers all harnessed and ready to go at a moment’s notice. The bungee jumping crew who had to deal with us “crazies” were very friendly and overall awesome.

As my friend and I looked over the edge of the bridge, we watched as one jumper flung himself from the platform. Nervousness began to set in for the first time as I realized exactly why people are more willing to go skydiving than bungee jumping: when you go skydiving your perception of the ground is slightly different than during bungee jumping. One hundred and ninety-one feet is a lot closer to the ground than 10,000 feet.

During our crash course session in bungee jumping safety, a blood curdling scream rang through the air, forcing everyone to turn their attention towards the edge. Then a round of giggles followed the scream as a small girl bounced underneath the bridge, and everyone was put at ease once more.

My friend turned to me and stated, “Okay, you need to beat that girl’s scream.”

I shook my head; it was an impossibility.

Finally it was our turn

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September 29, 2010


10 SPORTS

VOLLEYBALLSEE PAGE 11

Wolves outscored 6-0 to the undefeated FalconsWestern’s defense struggled to keep SPU out of the net on Saturday

Soccer | SEE PAGE 11

“Burn, destroy, wreck and kill”

This summer I had the opportunity to watch the Portland Timbers football club (PTFC) with my older brother Jon. Although the 2010 World Cup reinvigorated my enthusiasm for soccer, as I’m sure it did for

many, I had not been to a soccer game other than when I played the sport in kindergarten.

While there are many in the United States that do not appreciate the athletic abilities of the players and the entertainment value that a soccer game has, my older brother included, I find that it is quite entertaining and I envy the abilities that these athletes have.

Upon arriving at PGE Park on Southwest Morrison Street in Portland,

TIMBERSSEE PAGE 11

Western f a l l s t o Humboldt Jerod Young | Freelancer

Western’s football program came into the Saturday, Sept. 25 game No. 1 in the GNAC (Great Northwest Athletic Conference) with a 2-1 overall record, 2-0 in the GNAC. When Humboldt State arrived in Monmouth, it was third in the GNAC with a record of 2-1 overall, 1-0 in the GNAC.

The first quarter of the game saw a fair share of turnovers by both teams. Western began the game with the ball but turned it over on a fumble at the 36-yard line. After

FOOTBALLSEE PAGE 12

Lexington Martin | Freelancer Walking towards the women’s soccer

field on Sept. 25 at 11 a.m., athletes and fans alike began to see nothing more than gray skies above and a foggy mist in the air, light enough to taste. However, as the intensity of each young woman from Seattle Pacific University (SPU) and Western started to rise, so did the sun.

Athletes from each pack formed a passion and a desire during the pregame preparation – which made the intensity of



the competition between the Falcons and Wolves that much more fierce.

In regards to approaching the woman’s eighth game of the season, head coach Rod Fretz said, "We try not to focus on the team’s reputation before we play them, instead we focus on applying what needs to be done on field…it’s about those little things.”

As each of the starting players took

Ore., the excitement to watch the Timbers and be a part of the notorious “Timbers Army” was overwhelming. Walking past the retail trailer that sells forest green scarves and other items favored by the Timbers Army, I became more than ready to cheer for “our boys,” as one of the famous Timbers chants goes.

Column by Chris Reed

Managing Editor

There are sports that have passed the test of time and that remain relatively unchanged over the years both in the rules that govern them and their long-standing popularity. These include baseball, golf and tennis.

Then there are sports that are relatively new, games that see more change than the stock market. The higher-ups are constantly changing the rules to make their respective sports more enjoyable, profitable and sensible. The two that jump out are basketball and football.

I love every sport I’ve mentioned. But something bothers me about the latter category, and it bothers me more and more every time I think about it.

Football and basketball, despite being the most popular, marketable and profitable sports in America, absolutely need to find a new way to end games.

Let me illustrate my point.

The long-standing sports, the ones that have “matured,” (if I may use that term so brazenly) have consistent flow from beginning to end. A tennis player still serves, hits, slices, volleys and moves with the same purpose in the first set as he does in

the fifth; a pitcher tries to prevent runs when he throws the ball, regardless of the inning in which he’s pitching; a golfer is always going to shoot for a low score no matter if it’s early or late in the tournament.

This is not the case in football or basketball. The last two minutes of a football game are drastically different from the first two because the rules create a strong incentive for teams to employ radical schemes and strategies in the later portions of the game. Coaches call silly timeouts to “ice” kickers (which, statistically, is actually better for the kickers, ironically). Teams play “prevent” defenses. Quarterbacks spike the ball and take knees.

It turns into a completely different game.

Basketball is even worse. This goes without saying, but why are games being decided primarily by free throws? Players are penalized for committing fouls throughout the course of the game, so why is hacking away at an opponent rewarded in the late stages? The game has not been chiseled enough, so coaches and players are constantly finding loopholes in the rules, loopholes that make the end boring, unsatisfying and terribly long.

I am not saying anything about disliking these games. As I watch this year’s NFL games and prepare for the upcoming NBA season, I just wish some of the rules made the games consistent throughout. “It’s just strategy!” cry the diehards. My take: the rules should never allow strategy and gamesmanship to alter that dramatically.

TIMBERSSEE PAGE 11

Column by Jeffrey Larson

Sports Editor

Western clipped by undefeated SPU

Jerod Young | Freelancer

The clock struck 6:45, fifteen minutes before game time on Thursday, Sept. 23rd, and Western students, parents and volleyball fans came flooding into New PE, nearly filling every possible seat in the building to watch their Wolves take on the undefeated, No. 20 Seattle Pacific Falcons.

The crowd displayed all types of Wolves fans; from brand new freshmen seeing a Western game for the first time to older experienced students that showed up shirtless and showed Wolves pride with “W-O-U-!” spelled out displaying one letter per student, each of them loudly and proudly heckling the Seattle team the entire match.

“The crowd tonight was terrific and really

helped us,” said head coach Brad Saindon.

Despite Western’s back and forth 2010 season, it held a 3-1 record within the GNAC coming into the game, which is strong enough to keep the team in solid third place behind the No. 15 Western Washington and Seattle Pacific.

In the first set Western appeared to be intimidated by the 10-0 Falcons as the Wolves quickly found themselves behind by the score of 15-10. But with encouragement from Saindon, Western answered the deficit with three straight points to cut the lead to 15-12. Seattle Pacific regained composure and cruised to a 20-14 lead followed by a 25-18 lead to

Sophomore Danielle Reese (18) goes for one of her 11 kills in the Thursday evening game against nationally ranked SPU. Redshirt freshman Krissi Kemper (5) looks on.

Junior quarterback Evan Mozzochi (10) passes for one of his eight completions. He had a total of 87 passing yards in the game.

Some of America’s most popular sports need to change their rules

After the final whistle and an hour and a half of chants, the Timbers Army proceeded to yell, with some using a certain vulgar hand gesture to express their anger toward the officials for the many missed calls.

Moments after the players, coaches and officials left the field, the crowd began the usual slow moving exit from their seats and proceeded out of the stadium to continue their ordinary lives outside of the “Army.”

As we were leaving, I told my brother that out of all the sports games I have been too, including the Portland Trailblazers and Portland Winterhawks games, the Timbers Army is by far the most outspoken, provocative and enthusiastic fan base in sports. The Timbers Army is the greatest group of fans in sports.

“Rose City ‘til I die! Rose City ‘til I die! I know I am, I’m sure I am, Rose City ‘til I die!”

to consume our pizza and beer, the players arrived on the field to a resounding roar from the crowd of 14,985 people.

The moment we had all been waiting for had finally arrived: the Timbers were ready for another battle with their “Army” supporting them from behind the northern goal. Immediately, the Army began one of their many enthusiastic chants.

Since Milford is a regular attendee of PTFC games, he instructed my brother and me in learning many of the chants. Soon, after constant chanting, we learned nearly every word to every chant the Timbers Army has.

Within five minutes, the Timbers jumped out to an early 1-0 lead with The Austin Aztexes eager to get back into the game. By halftime, the efforts of the Aztex defense prevented the Timbers from getting a larger lead and the Aztex offense penetrated the Timbers defense to tie the game at 1-1.

“Go home you bums, go home you bums, go home

you bums, go home!”After entering the

stadium in search of my friend Milford who was going to serve as our “guide” to being in the Timbers Army, we proceeded to find some of that delicious stadium food and beer that is a must for everyone when attending any sporting event.

We finally found Milford at another concession stand buying the maximum two beers per trip. He escorted us down to his game time seats near the front row of section 106 where we stood, waiting for the game and the chants to begin.

While seated in the tight confines of PGE Park’s stadium seating, I remarked to Milford that being 6’ 4” and sitting in these small seats was pretty painful. Thankfully, he remarked, once the game started we would be standing for the remainder of it.

After the 20 minute wait, which we utilized

September 29, 2010


SPORTS 11

to the field, it became clear this would be a game of voracious survival towards claiming the ultimate win. As sophomore Marina Austin stated, “It’s our energy and our passion that makes us hungry for [the win].”

During the first half of the battle, it only took 20 seconds for Western to make their first offensive move, in which Austin attempted a goal. Shortly after, Western was craving more chances to take the lead resulting in four fouls. SPU then took their first three shots against Western resulting in the game’s first goal by SPU sophomore Kendall Thoreson.

Throughout the first half, Western had only one attempt for a goal and SPU had seven chances to raise the numbers on the scoreboard, four of which were successful in going in the net. Even though

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VOLLEYBALLFROM PAGE 10

it seemed as if the Falcons were soaring through this competition with a 4-0 lead, the Wolves howled back during the fight with much needed vitality and energy.

Taking the field during the second half Western drove in for three more goal attempts by sophomore Becca Hoiland, junior LaChante “Budda” Horton and Austin – two saved by SPU keeper Maddie Dickinson, while Horton’s ball went wide. SPU’s Hannah Masson followed by scoring two more, making the final score of the battle 6-0, a Falcons victory.

With SPU (7-0-1) conquering the GNAC ranks with a 4-0-0, Western has fallen to 0-4-0 in the GNAC. On Sept. 30 Western will battle on the road against Montana State Billings, then it’s back to their home turf to face Northwest Nazarene at 1 p.m. on Oct. 2.

Section 106

“When I root, I root for the Timbers!”

SOCCER | FROM PAGE 10

win set one.With the first-set

jitters out of the way, Western jumped out to an early 5-3 lead over Seattle Pacific. Western came out playing excellent defense in the second set with kill after kill at the net by sophomore Danielle Reese and freshman Becky Blees; both having six combined kills in game two.

“Tonight was a breakout night for Becky, really showed what she can do for us,” said Saindon.

Western only held the Falcons to a three-point lead through more than half of set two, but Seattle Pacific pulled ahead and won set two with an identical score as set one, 25-18. Despite the loss in the set, Western kept even with the Falcons, each having 31 total attacks in the set.

Set three for the Wolves started as a reverse of set two as they found

themselves down early 9-6, but Western proved it still had fight left against the undefeated Falcons and followed up on a 6-3 run of its own, capped by a tie with Seattle Pacific at 12. After a quick Seattle timeout, the Falcons were able to come back and win set three, 25-21, and the match, three sets to none.

Western once again displayed outstanding defense in set three, only allowing the deficit to reach five points throughout the game and scoring a match-high 21 points.

In the third set Western out-attacked Seattle Pacific, 38-31. Once again, Blees was a co-leader along with redshirt freshman Krissi Kemper in attacks with three each.

Saindon said after the Western loss; “I am happy with the way that we played. We had good serving tonight against a legit, well-coached Seattle Pacific team.”

(TOP) Senior Jorden Burrows sets freshman Becky Blees up for a kill. (BOTTOM) Senior defender Jill Petersen looks to pass down the sideline.

WatchSaturday, Oct. 2

Women’s soccerNorthwest Nazarene at Wolves, 1 p.m., Soccer FieldWestern’s women’s soccer team works to recover from its 6-0 loss against Seattle Pacific on Thursday. They will face Northwest Nazarene at home on Saturday. Men’s RugbyWillamette University at Wolves, 1 p.m., Rugby Field Ranked 12th in the nation, Western’s men’s rugby team begins the 2010 season at home and attempts to rank higher in the nation.

September 29, 2010


12 SPORTS

Photos by | Emily Laughlin

a failed fourth-down attempt by Humboldt, Western also ran a play on fourth-and-two. Quarterback A.J. Robinson ran a keeper up the middle and gained four yards for the first down. The Wolves ran the exact same quarterback-keeper play the following play and Robinson fumbled the ball and Humboldt recovered.

Coach Ferguson said of the turnovers: “We needed our QB’s and running back to play better; producing in the red zone is key.”

Humboldt drove the ball down to the Western 28-yard line and Western senior safety Caleb Singleton intercepted the short pass play. On the drive, Western kicker Kelly Morgan’s 40-yard field goal was blocked and returned by safety Jordan Smith for a Humboldt State touchdown.

The early part of the second quarter saw a similar fate. Morgan’s attempt on a 39-yard attempt missed to the

left. Western received redemption with an interception by junior lineman Levi Smith on the 45-yard line halfway through the quarter.

Ferguson complemented the defense’s play; “Our D played really well early; they put out great effort switch on their quarterback.”

Humboldt receiver Patrick Gondkoff received a touchdown pass from Mike Proulx with seven seconds left in the half but was called back on an illegal-touch penalty. Western then blocked a field-goal to end the half, 7-0 in favor of Humboldt.

Despite the special team’s miscue, Western led in first-half yardage, 126 to 112, but gave up 33 yards in penalties. The only action in the third quarter came at the 8:37 mark when Humboldt’s Mike Proulx threw a touchdown pass to receiver Dirk Dallas in the top left corner of the end zone, giving the Lumberjacks a 14-0 lead.

The fourth quarter began with Western on Humboldt’s 4-yard line. Running back Darryl Valdez fumbled the ball and the Lumberjacks recovered.

Humboldt got to the 48-yard line when Caleb Singleton came through for the Wolves with his second interception, which allowed quarterback Evan Mozzochi to throw a touchdown pass to Demario Ballard with 6:21 left in the game.

Unfortunately, Humboldt’s ground attack was too much for Western as the run game gained first down after first down to end the game and give Humboldt State the 14-7 victory. The total passing yards were close, 136-126 for Humboldt, as was the total offense, which came to 307-290 in favor of Humboldt.

Coach Arne Ferguson said after the close game; “Our DB’s [Defensive backs], corners, and safeties all did nice jobs rushing their quarterback.”

FOOTBALL | FROM PAGE 10

(Above) Western’s defense halts Humboldt’s rush. Humboldt had only 171 rushing yards on the afternoon thanks to Western’s superb defense. (Below) Western’s offensive line worked hard to protect its quarterbacks, but Western’s quarterbacks were sacked three times in the afternoon game.

After losing at home on Thursday to the undefeated Seattle Pacific Falcons, who are ranked second in the GNAC, the Wolves, third in the GNAC, remained home to face the Montana State Billings (MSU Billings) Yellowjackets, eighth in the GNAC.

The Wolves opened up the first set with a 3-0 run before senior Stephanie Beeler gave Western one of their 22 serve errors for the game. The Yellowjackets, however, did not recover from the early first set deficit, losing the first set 25-19.

The Yellowjackets came into the second set on fire by outscoring the Wolves 3-10 early in the set. The Wolves eight serve errors in the second set enabled the Yellowjackets to keep the pressure on the Wolves and take the second set 19-25.

Beeler and sophomore Samantha Ward led the Wolves in the third set with five kills apiece to help the Wolves win the third set 25-16. The Wolves continued to keep the pressure on the Yellowjackets in the fourth set by earning 12 kills off of 12 assists; four of those assists came from freshman setter Nikki Conley.

Head coach Brad Saindon acknowledged Conely’s play saying that this was her first game back from being out for three weeks with a concussion and that this was “her first chance to get her feet wet” and “Nikki was good.”

Freshman Krissi Kemper, Beeler and sophomore Danielle Reese all had three kills in the decisive fourth set. Kemper and Beller finished the game with 10 kills apiece and Reese had nine kills to give Western their sixth victory of the season (6-5), and fourth victory in the GNAC (4-2).

“The difference tonight was that Becky [Blees] had a breakout night … Krissi [Kemper] had a great night … Sam [Ward] had a great night, Dani [Reese] had a great night, and Steph Beeler, I thought had another really good night, maybe the best night of her life,” added Saindon.

The Wolves now embark on a two-day road trip in which they play Central Washington on Sept. 30 and Northwest Nazarene on Oct. 2 before they return home for a three-day home stand beginning with a game against Saint Martin’s on Oct. 9.

Western drops Montana State

Western remains third in GNAC with winJeffrey Larson | Sports Editor

Billings in four sets at home

Documents

Western Oregon Journal (2010-2011) Issue 2