The
First copy FREE; additional copies 1
¢
Clackamas Print
Inside: President addresses Student of Concern issues See Page 2
C l a c k a m a s C o m m u n i t y C o l l e g e , O r e g o n C i t y, O R
Vo l u m e 4 1 , I s s u e 1 3
A n
i n d e p e n d e n t ,
s t u d e n t - r u n
n e w s p a p e r
We d n e s d a y, F e b . 2 0 , 2 0 0 8
Student brought into custody after malicious MySpace blogs John Hurlburt The Clackamas Print
Clackamas student Benjamin Caldwell, 23, was taken into custody Friday, Feb. 15, willingly and unarmed for threatening comments on his MySpace.com page, according to the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office. He was held on a police officer hold and transported to a local hospital for a mental health evaluation. Earlier this month, a student contacted Clackamas staff with concerns about remarks on Caldwell’s MySpace profile, said college officials. After the school found additional information, school officials decided that the circumstances had evolved to the point where contacting the sheriff’s office was necessary. Caldwell was banned from campus pending disciplinary procedures, said Dean of Student Services Bill Zuelke. The college is unsure when he will be released from the mental evaluation. Dean of Campus Services Bill Leach feels that the campus is handling the risk. Since Friday, Oregon City police have increased patrols on campus. “We have a really good security team here,” Leach said. “It’s like a city here, and stuff happens. We get issues that come up about students and staff, and we look into all of that.” Caldwell was a member of The Clackamas Print from spring 2007 through fall of the same year. Among his questionable remarks on MySpace were threats targeting the staff of The Print. Zuelke warned one Print member Friday that the student’s name had been
“We burn them to ashes and then burn the ashes...”
Genyva Laubach Clackamas Print
mentioned in Caldwell’s writings. Over the weekend, students discovered a threat targeting The Print, written in December, on another MySpace page. On Monday, Zuelke formally alerted The Print’s full staff that they had been threatened. The post stated: “i think i will go on a shooting spree and start with the print.” Caldwell’s other comments that led to police involvement include: “It’s getting harder to not just start breaking things. It’s getting harder to not just start shooting.” “ave maria ... this is the song that would be my soundtrack for a killing spree it just inspiers creativity.” “i don’t want to think that the world is worth saving. i want to destroy it i want to take my hate for this for this world out of everybody.” Caldwell is an admitted gun rights advocate. In November, he wrote a front-page news story about gun rights for The Print. In 2006, he was issued a concealed weapons permit, which was revoked upon the onset of his police officer hold. On Feb. 15, views were posted on Caldwell’s blog page about the Northern Illinois University shootings, stating, “An armed society is a polite society. The only reason that people go around killing others is that they think they can get away with it.” Student Sean Huggins sees the actions taken against Caldwell as a flagrant example of overreaction due to the fact that the only evidence presented is a few phrases written on Caldwell’s profile. “We have freedom of speech in this nation, which means absolute freedom of speech,”
President Truesdell asks for $5 increase in tuition Lydia E. Bashaw News Editor
CALDWELL
File Photo/2007
Huggins said. Tom Caldwell, Ben Caldwell’s father, did not return The Print’s calls for comment. Many members of the college staff criticized how the school handled the lack of information released about Caldwell. At 4 p.m. Friday, Leach notified the staff that there was a “student of concern” and that the sheriff’s department was involved. The college said that because of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, regulations, it could say little. In a series of e-mails exchanged among staff concerning Leach’s notification, some individuals on staff voiced the opinion that they
should have been informed of Caldwell’s identity by the college. Others said that when the police released the information to the public, the press could have permanently scarred his reputation on campus. English Instructor Kate Gray has extended an open invitation for faculty to participate in a Faculty Senate meeting, which will address the current situation’s impact on the college and its staff. The meeting will be held Thursday at noon in the McLoughlin Auditorium. College President Joanne Truesdell will talk to the campus community today at 2 p.m. in the Fireside Lounge.
On Wednesday, Feb. 13, President Joanne Truesdell asked the board of education to increase tuition $5 per credit hour by summer 2008. The recommendation was made after a survey of the college suggested that students lack resources and services. The increase will help to cover the projected budget deficit for the next school year. “We are not asking students to fund the gap,” Truesdell said. “We are all trying to figure out where the frame is.” Questions regarding the effect on enrollment and how to remain at a reasonable cost were at the forefront of conversation. A rise in tuition could impact distance learning enrollment and community education, a large group of the student body. “… Our tuition increases have not affected enrollment … ” Truesdell said. “It’s about our services, it’s about course offerings and it’s about what’s happening in terms of employment.” The college has always been a leader when it comes to cheap education, but a tuition boost does not mean that Clackamas would skyrocket above other colleges. “When you look at taking 13 credits at Clackamas in the fall, it would cost one of our students $857, and (for) students at Chemeketa, it would have cost $939,” Truesdell said. “If they would have gone to Mt. Hood, it would have cost $1,031, and at Portland Community College, it would have cost $986.” Please see TUITION, Page 2
Fire lit up the night Feb. 18 as Art Instructor Rick True set a Giant Handbuilt book to flame. The book was built by the theatre department as part of “The Big Read” events held on campus. Names of banned books were written on the giant display. Before the book burning, a portion of Ray Bradbury’s book “Fahrenheit 451” was performed by actor Tobias Andersen. As flames lit up the sky, the crowd witnessed the transformation: The book changed from a ball of fire to a work of art. The frame of the book held a quote from Bradbury’s book:“Remember Montag; the public itself stopped reading of its own accord.” Lydia E. Bashaw Clackamas Print
John Shufelt Clackamas Print
2
The
News
Clackamas Print
Wednesday, Feb.20, 2008
Message from the president This is the text from an e-mail containing information about our front-page story sent to campus staff by College President Joanne Truesdell on Sunday, Feb. 17 Dear Campus Community:
John Shufelt Clackamas Print
Laurie Nelson, manager of Let’s Quilt, located across the street from the college, calls an insurance agent after a car came crashing through the store Friday, Feb. 15.
Tuition: Raise next year will cost students money Continued from TUITION, Page 1
Even with a $5 increase, the college “would be at $921,” she concluded. The big question is not necessarily where Clackamas will stand with other colleges but where the money will go. Truesdell shared that students at Clackamas put their experience at the front, the services the colleges offers second and the expense third. “(It’s) about accessing the services, technology, support service programs and the experiences for their educational goals,” she said. “The question is, what is the money going towards? Are we providing that quality kind of experience?” “We would not be asking for students to bear the full brunt of any kind of expenditure reduction …” she added. “This will help us … to invest in the kinds of things that help students to persist, complete and achieve their goals.”
John Shufelt Clackamas Print
Members of the board talk about the need to raise tuition before for start of Summer Term.
CORRECTION In issue 12, published Feb. 13, The Print misidentified the bassist on the front page as Zach Dear. Ed Bennett was the bassist. The Print regrets the error.
The
Clackamas Print
The Clackamas Print 19600 S. Molalla Ave. Oregon City, OR 97045 503-657-6958, ext. 2309
Editor in Chief: Megan Koler Copy Editor: Colleen Watkins News Editor: Lydia E. Bashaw A&C Editor: Emily Walters Sports Editor: Andrea Simpson Feature Editor: Kyle Steele Photo Editor: Kayla Berge Photo Associate : Mistymarie Wilks-Salguero News Associate: Matt Garrison
The college is serious in its efforts to create a safe campus for everyone. Our student of concern process worked well and our communication with you is continuing. Bill Zuelke, Dick Ashbaugh and Bill Leach are well connected with the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and Clackamas County Mental Health. They are keeping Baldwin van der Bijl, Courtney Wilton, Jan Godfrey and I informed and participating in the decision making process.
It is with this information that we have determined the campus will operate as usual. I have asked that we create a more visible presence with our security officers and local law enforcement over the next few days, so staff and students can focus their attention on teaching and learning. B i l l Zuelke, dean of student services, will be sending an e-mail to the campus TRUESDELL community informing you what’s happened, what’s next, how the student of concern process works and where to seek support for yourself or your stu-
dents. We will have a complete review of this situation and assess ways for improvement. I have spoken with the presidents of the associations and appreciate their insights. I also appreciate the many comments from our community and welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you further in person at one of our upcoming Fireside Chats. These are difficult times for college campuses nationwide. We will continue working together toward our preferred future.
“Student of Concern” explained Dear Campus Community,
vice president and staff from Community Mental Health. (Throughout the time this process was going on, the student of concern and his writings were being monitored and new material was being discovered and considered.) On Thursday, Feb. 14, new writings were received and the sheriff was notified, and a meeting was scheduled with the sheriff ’s office as well as County Mental Health for
Clackamas Community College has had in place for a number of years a process we call our “Student of Concern Process.” This process is designed to assist us in becoming aware of and address concerns that are raised by and for our students. The recent episode involving one of our students provides an example of how this process works. Before I describe the process, please be aware that right now our process has led to the summary suspension of a student in accord with our student disciplinary process, and the student is prohibited from being on campus or participating in any college activity. The student disciplinary process will proceed in this case. Recently, a student approached one of our faculty members with some material written by a fellow student that he found disturbing. The faculty member, upon reading the material, considered the student who wrote it a ZUELKE “Student of Concern.” The faculty then notified the department chair. Friday, Feb. 15. Before that The department chair in turn meeting occurred, the shernotified the department chair iff ’s office took the action of counseling and advis- that the news has made you ing (the department chair of all aware of. Counseling and Advising is We will continue to monithe point person for all stu- tor this situation, and we are dents of concern issues.) working closely with both the That began a process of sheriff ’s office and County investigation and consulta- Mental Health. tion with staff, deans, the Our Student of Concern
A� M������: Meredith James S���� W������/ P������������: Dale Balbi, Armondo Borboa, Kenton Benfield, Helen Conley, John Hurlburt, Nick Kornafel, Genyva Laubach, Riley Lundgren, Christina Maggio, Jess Shepard, John Shufelt
P��������� A���������: Dusty Ragsdale, Chris Young D��������� A������: Melissa Jones D��������� S��������: Pat Thompson
process is working well, and it helped us protect our campus community and assure an appropriate intervention for one of our students. Please do not hesitate to use this process if you ever have reason to be concerned about one of our students. Just contact the department chair of Counseling and Advising. The news of the last few days brings deep concern and surely some anxiety for all of us. Many of you will encounter students in the coming days who will be experiencing many different emotions. We all know that some of our students are more fragile and/or less resilient than others. Please remember that the college counseling center is staffed with six high-quality counselors who are standing by, ready to assist anyone who needs some help. The counselors can be reached by dialing ext. 2213. This situation impacts all of us as well. Please be advised that we have an excellent employee assistance program at the college for all staff. Services are free and confidential and are for any concern a college staff member may have. Contact HR for more information (ext. 2318). Thank you for your care and concern on behalf of our students. – Bill Zuelke, Dean of Student Services
G����: The Clackamas Print aims to report the news in an honest, unbiased, professional manner. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the student body, college administration, its faculty or The Print. E-mail comments to chiefed@clackamas. edu.
The
Opinion
Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008
Students respond to page of letters from previous issue Dear Editor, I think there is a situation at hand that is totally unacceptable. Concerning the letter to the editor in last week’s paper, where people were responding to the gay student who runs the blood drive but can’t himself give blood, there is no excuse to only publish such vulgar hateful responses and no others. I was told that the positive letters greatly outnumbered the negative ones and yet the larger stack was “misplaced.” I find this highly unlikely and entirely either irresponsible or vile should it be intentional. I don’t feel like I should have to pull my punches; you allowed nothing but horribly close-minded and ignorant letters to be published. If people are allowed to express those kind of views, views that scream out “We are ignorant and proud of it!” then we certainly deserve that. A place of learning should also, at best, be a place of tolerance. This campus is a place where people come together from all over and from all walks of life to learn. Is the lesson we want remembered the most to be intolerance? I hope not; that is a lesson taught all too much anymore. There were a number of people hurt and angered by the incredibly insensitive and ignorant letters that were published. That is entirely uncalled for. I believe that the person in charge of that heinous act should have to apologize publicly and personally for their actions regarding this already sensitive situation. I hope that the paper can keep up its usual level of balance and entertainment in the future. I was highly disappointed in the lack of professionalism shown last week. I hope that doesn’t occur again; it doesn’t reflect well on The Print as a whole for that kind of a thing to be published. On one last aspect, not only is it the fault of the person who published the article, but the editor is also at fault for not catching the error and correcting it appropriately. I would be more understanding if it was to only go through one person, but for two people to knowingly put such hurtful material in is most definitely unacceptable. – Greg Stein
Dear Editor, I’ve read the article on Mitch Knudsen and the letters printed last week, and I whole heartedly disagree with the majority of responses. The ignorance and malice shown in the letters were equal to those found on any Internet forum, not what I would expect to read in a college paper. HIV may have been a bigger problem for gay males in the past, but now it is common for heterosexual men and women as well. Everyone who is sexually active is at risk. The American Red Cross now tests all the blood it receives for HIV six times and refuses the blood if even one test is positive. It seems to me that this is more about a silly fear of homosexuality being contagious than actually contracting HIV. That said, only two out of the 11 letters were even remotely supportive of the gay community. I’m not at all convinced that those could be the only letters received, noting how ridiculous the FDA regulation is. It seemed completely one-sided and biased, and it makes me wonder what the staff of this publication is teaching student writers when only one side is presented and the other ignored. – Kathryn Parker
Clackamas Print 3
Unprinted letters to the Editor Editor’s Note: The letters below are six out of the 39 letters that were originally submitted after the article “Sexual orientation prevents male student from giving blood” was published. Because a disproportionate representation of the general sentiment was presented, The Print is providing a sample of the original, unprinted supportive responses.
Dear Editor,
Dear Editor:
Dear Editor,
To not be able to give blood because you are gay is unfair. To hold such a judgment on gay men is like still holding judgment on African Americans. Everyone should be treated equally no matter their sexual orientation. I feel like the bias this country has on gays and lesbians is almost like black and white segregation. It’s almost cruel in a way. Straight people who find gays promiscuous, even though gays and straights are just the same as straight people, get to decide whether they can do certain things, like give blood and get married. Just because you like someone of the same sex doesn’t mean that you are a bad person or you should be treated differently. People cannot help who they like or how they feel about someone! No one should ever be told they can’t give blood because of something that they can’t help.
Upon reading your article, I couldn’t help but feel disgusted – not because I have a prejudice about homosexuals but because people are so native and stereotypical. I personally don’t agree with homosexuality, but I’m not going to try to stop someone else from making his or her own choice. The idea that all gay men have AIDS or some other STD is ridiculous. I know two people personally who are infected with HIV, and neither one of them is gay. If the American Red Cross wants blood to save lives, it shouldn’t matter what the donor’s sexual orientation is as long as the blood can be used to save lives. Like mentioned in the article, “they check every unit of blood.” I think it’s great Mitch Knudsen continues to help plan and be a part of the blood drive even though he is unable to donate.
When I read this article, it made me feel angry due to the fact that the American Red Cross is supposed to help people by receiving as many donations as possible. Though some have the disease, the assumption that “all” gays have HIV is ridiculous. If gays were allowed to donate, they could save so many more lives. Obviously, the more people who can be potential donors and can actually donate create a higher chance of saving lives. I believe gay men should be allowed and be more accepted. It’s pure reality now. They shouldn’t be mistreated or disrespected by who they are. Stereotypes are stereotypes, and I’m disappointed that the American Red Cross doesn’t see anything but the “gay man who has HIV.” What does that say about the American Red Cross, in a sense that they want to save as many lives as possible? They’re contradicting their beliefs because they refuse gay men’s donations.
– Heather Asquith
Dear Editor:
Dear Editor: In response to the article written, “Sexual orientation prevents male student from giving blood,” it’s such a wonderful thing that the male written about is able to coordinate and organize a blood drive. Yet, it does not seem right that he himself is unable to donate blood due to his sexuality. He has been tested, claims he only has one partner, and there is blood testing now that picks up such things they would be looking for in blood. It is sad and almost unforgiving how someone puts so much time into organizing a blood drive but is unable to give blood because of MSM. – Samantha Posvar
– Heather Williams
It is my opinion that gay men who have had sex should be able to give blood. Their blood could help save lives. Restricting their ability to donate only hurts people – both those who wish to donate and those who need to donate. With modern technology, not letting these men donate is bordering on extreme ignorance. With the advances in technology in the last 30 years, these men should be able to donate blood. Every drop of blood is already tested. These men could also get tested before the drive and bring proof that they are HIV-free. Reform needs to happen in the Red Cross’ blood donation restrictions. – Tyler Dearborn
– Brittany Kolb Dear Editor, After reading the headline “Sexual orientation prevents male students from giving blood,” I was angry. How can this affect the blood so much? I do not like how the Red Cross only discriminates against homosexual and not lesbians. Every person should be allowed to give blood no matter who they would sleep with. Everyone has the same chance as everyone else to get a STD or HIV, no matter his or her sex partner. It makes me sick to think that the person who set up such a great cause cannot even give blood himself. His blood could save a life just as well as my blood or your blood – and that’s the overall reason for a blood drive. – Magen Pettitt
Editor in Chief responds in wake of errors in Opinion section Megan Koler Editor in Chief
Last week in the Opinion section, The Print published letters in response to the article entitled “Sexual orientation prevents male student from giving blood.” Due to an error in the organization of the 39 letters received, the vast majority of those printed were of an anti-homosexual nature or in support of the Federal Drug Administration’s ban on gay men giving blood. It was an absolutely unintended misrepresentation of the proportion of supportive letters to ones opposing the American Red cross. Normally, The Print strives to show an even distribution of all submitted
sentiments. In this case, nearly 75 percent of the letters received were from students who were as outraged by the FDA ban as Mitch Knudsen and Carol Burnell. An example of the supportive letters is provided in this issue of the newspaper. To anyone who has been hurt by the error: On behalf of the rest of The Print staff, I deeply apologize. However, it is our obligation to publish as many responses to our articles as possible. The editorial staff will never turn away a letter simply because we disagree with the views being expressed by the writer. It is our opinion that every individual has a right to be heard, even those who express beliefs that some people may consider “close-minded” or “ignorant.” In response to the claims that The Print was purposely showcasing only the negative letters as an
elaborate means to push some kind of anti-homosexual agenda, I can only say that those accusations are ridiculously absurd and offensive. I personally went to a lot of trouble to research and write my article about the fact that Knudsen was unable to contribute to the blood drive because the basic rights of all students, staff and faculty are of great concern to this newspaper and to me. Unfortunately, because we are only a weekly publication, there hasn’t been an opportunity to explain this misunderstanding until today. I still thank the students who sent in letters, and I encourage everyone to continue to write in should they feel so inclined. Even though The Print’s intentions were misunderstood, seeing so many students come to the defense of members of their community is encouraging. Please never stop.
4
The
Clackamas Print
The secrets of campus lovers John Hurlburt The Clackamas Print
In the wake of Valentine’s Day, people may still have the image embedded in their minds of two individuals trying to inhale each other’s souls through their mouths. The scene is likely familiar to those who have stepped foot in public: a couple passionately clinging to one another while passersby are forced to either witness the display or find a new interest in the way they tie their shoes. At what point does a show of affection become an annoyance? In the eyes of student Michaela Carlson, it’s when holding hands or a quick hug and a kiss develop into more than just that. “I wish people would keep their personal relationships a bit more personal,” Carlson said. “Any place where there is a lot of student traffic, in my opinion, would not be an appropriate place for people to be making out.” Some free expressions of fondness appall Alexander Costa. His most memorable observation of such a sight involves a pregnant woman smoking a cigarette and embracing her partner, just outside the cafeteria. “Kissing is fine in public,” Costa said, “but using tongue and sexual gestures I find unclassy and sort of disgusting.” Many wish not to see unrestricted exhibits of liking and love, and at the same time, those who are kissing often do not wish to be watched. One exception is student Brandon Buss, who doesn’t mind an audience but prefers a quieter place. “It’s a natural thing,” Buss said. Buss’ opinion is that as long as people are not making a scene or getting in anyone’s way, their conduct shouldn’t matter. Cassie Wellington doesn’t care whether or not couples make out providing that it is not out in the open. “After a certain point … it becomes a get-a-room type of thing,” Wellington said. Although getting a room on campus isn’t an option, a few areas are out of the view of the general populace. For example, near the Environmental Learning Center, northeast of Clairmont Hall, a network of paths runs through a lightly forested region in a circle around a pond. Student Stephen Ragsdale believes the spot is a suitable place for a romantic moment alone. “Anywhere outside should be OK,” he added. However, there is one notable downside to the paths – they are fairly primitive, and much of the ground is typically muddy, so it would be wise to put on an inexpensive pair of shoes before taking to the trails. Another perhaps-appropriate location for somewhat intimate relations is the forest just east of the Pauling Center. Although there is not a lot of cover, some spaces in between the trees provide opportunities to lie back and relax. According to Buss, one problem with the site is the lack of seats. “The ground’s just too hard,” he said. For individuals who are uncomfortable watching others polish their partner’s teeth, the good news is that open public displays of affection on campus do not appear to be the norm. Costa says that he only sees people making out about once a month at the college. Carlson confirms this; thankfully, she doesn’t observe the scenario very often. So, to anyone feeling the desire to engorge someone else’s face, just remember to do so courteously and keep innocent bystanders in mind.
Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008
Feature
Instructor talks fairness Burnell and her partner finally recieve rights that only heterosexual couples have enjoyed Kyle Steele Feature Editor
On Feb. 4 gay couples lined up in front of Oregon courthouses, awaiting their chance to sign up for the opportunity that would allow them to receive some of the rights that many heterosexual couples take for granted. The legalization of domestic partnerships in Oregon passed through a federal judge Friday, Feb. 1, taking effect the following Monday. Clackamas’ own Carol Burnell, an English instructor at the college for the past four years and the adviser of the Gay Straight Alliance, decided along with her partner to wait until Valentine’s Day to register. “We joke about getting domesticated,” Burnell said. The couple has been together for six and a half years, and had a formal ceremony with friends and family five years ago. Even though, in their eyes, they have been married since that time, Oregon law did not recognize them as such. This left them without vari-
ous basic rights that married a medical emergency and they were annulled; they just couples have. rights concerning a deceased never happened in a legal The law “gives us cer- partner. sense.” tain legal benefits through “You really want to have As far as the domestic which we had to pay a lot families and people to be partnership goes, for Burnell, of money to try to get even protected under the law and it was all about obtaining the part of those on our own, by doing wills and power of attorneys and all kinds of stuff,” Burnell said. The court’s opinion was a big success for gay rights advocates. The domestic partnership bill was originally signed by Gov. Ted Kulongoski on May 9, 2007, to be effective at the beginning of 2008, but a court challenge postponed the outcome of the legislation until recently, when the judge ruled in Kayla Berge Clackamas Print the favor of the Carol Burnell recounts her string of attempts to gain marriage state. equality rights for her and her partner. “Not only did we win on the merits of the case; we really be safe,” Burnell said. paper that would provide her won new rights,” said Jeana This isn’t the first time family with a little peace Frazzini, executive director that Burnell has attempted of mind. She considers the of Basic Rights Oregon, to to get fair representation commitment and the ceremoThe Oregonian after the rul- for her family by means of ny that she and her partner ing Feb. 1. Oregon law. In 2005, when held five years ago more Some of the privileges that Multnomah County was important than any event gay couples can now enjoy briefly offering gay mar- afterward. through the bill, known as riage, they signed up. “ … Actually being marthe Oregon Family Fairness “We got our $60 check ried to someone, that’s a very Act, are property rights, the back in the mail,” Burnell private, personal thing in my ability to make decisions for said. “They were basically opinion, and the other part is one’s partner in the case of canceled. I don’t even think the legal part,” Burnell said.
Welcoming a new United States citizen wrong. Additionally, Ljucevic has a unique backstory. He and his family traveled from former Yugoslavia – now Bosnia and Herzegovina – to the United States Feb. 7, 2002. “Since that time, I am here in Portland with my family,” he said. Upon arriving in the States, Ljucevic worked to expand his knowledge of the English language and began the naturalization process to become a United States citi-
Getting to this point was not easy. The Clackamas Print “We were a little bit under depression,” Ljucevic said. It seems that “behind the “It is not really easy comscenes” is all the rage – bands ing from another continent, offer backstage passes, DVD another war. Every day you movies have “making of” are not sure what is going commentary and news junkon; the (United States) govies want insider information ernment could change the on politics and the latest gosrequirements (for registrasip. tion) … or change someEngineering Team Leader thing. We came here legalHilmo Ljucevic is familiar ly … all of this had scary with the unseen operations moments.” of the college. His job is one One fear was that the that, when done right, no government would delay the registration process to becoming a citizen, which would have made it more difficult for Ljucevic to find work. Citizenship is a requirement for many jobs, and this resulted in him initially missing out on opportunities for which he was otherwise eligible. He was finally able to get a position here at Clackamas. Ljucevic was originally hired as a high voltage integrated circuit control technician. Among other things, Kenton Benfield Clackamas Print this qualifies him for Hilmo Ljucevic monitors the school’s temperature control for each maintenance work and building. The system allows him to adjust it from anywhere. to control much of the campus utility infrastructure, including one likely notices and, thus, zen. water, power, gas consumpis taken for granted, but it is He was sworn in as a citi- tion for the heating boilers significant in that it would zen after scoring an impres- and temperature control. most definitely be a topic of sive 100 percent on his citiUpon receiving his citidiscussion if something went zenship exam Jan. 9. zenship, Ljucevic was asked
Kenton Benfield
to define his long-term goals. He joked that being the mayor of Portland might not be so bad, reflecting the new sense of opportunity that was now open to him. He has since been promoted to engineering team lead, or head control engineer. One example of a day-today task Ljucevic might perform is the operation of the temperature control system for the college. From within Ljucevic’s office, or anywhere in the world, the entire campus can be monitored by an online computer system that reports constantly-updated information about the temperature of every room. Most of the system is automated by a flow chart of his design; however, custom alterations can be implemented in real-time through the Web interface. In one instance, Ljucevic jokingly implied that he would have been able to connect through the Internet and alter some settings while staying in Europe in 2006. The changes would have occurred almost instantly in Oregon. It is so flexible that if anyone on campus ever has a request to adjust the temperature of any room, he or she need only contact Ljucevic and request the change. The next time a student doesn’t notice the temperature of a room on campus, he or she can thank Ljucevic for a job well-done.
5 & ‘Quilters’ tells of pioneer women’s lives
The
Clackamas Print
Jess Sheppard The Clackamas Print
Ever think a story could be told in quilts? It can, and the theatrical production getting ready to open at Clackamas does just that. “Quilters” is a women’s show, written by women and performed by women. “It’s a woman’s life in quilts,” said Jayne Stevens, Clackamas’s Artist in Residence and an actress in the production. The performance opens with a mother on her deathbed, surrounded by her daughters, and goes on to tell the tale of life – not just the mother’s life or those of the daughters, but life itself. The quilts and musical numbers help to convey a story that Theatre Director David Smith-English describes as “very episodic.” The show “uses quilts as a metaphor for the social structure of pioneer women,” Smith-English said. Quilting wasn’t just a hobby done for fun in the pioneer
Arts Culture
Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008
days. “You were born, and you were wrapped in a quilt,” SmithEnglish said. “You would quilt with your mother. Quilts would be part of your dowry. This was something that women did as a community that would hold them together.” While the plot is set such a long time ago, the issues and hardships faced by the characters in “Quilters” have changed very little over time. “We’ve got marriage. We’ve got a fire,” Smith-English said. “We have a hilarious scene where four women are about to get their periods.” Stevens said, “That would be different if a man wrote it. It’s definitely a female perspective.” The music of “Quilters” proved to be a challenge for both Smith-English and the actresses, who play nearly a dozen parts each. “It’s very demanding stuff,” Smith-English said. Musical rehearsals had to begin three days before the scheduled acting rehearsals for fear that the production wouldn’t be ready in time for the first showing.
The music in “Quilters” is different than that of many other musicals. The orchestra is on stage with the actresses, in costume. Orchestra members even have lines of their own. The band includes a violin, cello and bass, as well as a guitar played by Dean of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Bill Briare. The music director and keyboardist for the show is Mike Van Liew. “The music is sophisticated and interesting,” Smith-English said. “This is not a typical musical.” The cast features Clackamas veterans such as Stevens, Heather Ovalle, Brianne Shewbert and Theatre Instructor Cyndy Smith-English. It also includes the acting talents of Shannon McBride, Hannah Munsy, Kristina Poul and Beth Hungerford. “It’s a serious damn show,” Smith-English said. “Quilters” runs Feb. 28 through March 9. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Sunday showings start at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 general admission and staff, $10 for students, as well as seniors who are at least 62 years of age, and $8 for children ages six to 12. To purchase tickets, call 503-657-6958, ext. 2356, or email Theatre Department Secretary Jennifer Schwartzman at Jens@clackamas.edu.
Mistymarie Wilks-Salguero Clackamas Print
ABOVE: The all-women cast of “Quilters” sings about a corn-cob doll and shakes their pointer fingers toward the audience at a special show for the board of education. RIGHT: The teacher of the schoolhouse in “Quilters” lectures one of her students.
Former pro-surfer shows more mature side after ‘Curious George’ Andrea Simpson The Clackamas Print
The highly anticipated fourth album from singer-songwriter Jack Johnson, titled “Sleep Through The Static,” was released Feb. 5 and soon met with mediocre reviews from magazines such as Rolling Stone and Spin, and online shopping outlets like Amazon.com. Johnson’s first two CDs had success underground, but it was truly his third release, “In Between Dreams,” that pushed him to widely-celebrated fame. He also churned out the popular 2006 soundtrack to the children’s movie “Curious George.” “Sleep Through The Static” was produced by folk rock artist Ben Harper’s producer, JP Plunier, who backed Johnson’s 2001 debut, “Brushfire Fairytales.” The album has been credited as having departed from Johnson’s normally beach-tripping, wave-riding, mellow-yellow sound. In some ways, this has proven true with the addition of piano player Zach Gill, who adds a jazzier tone to the music. In other ways, I feel that the recording should have been
called “In Between Dreams: the Zoloft Years.” Many of the songs have a sound that is similar to Johnson’s previous work but merely slowed down and combined with more mature lyrics. The CD is ideal for listening while staring at the rain and contemplating life and relationships. It starts out with “All at Once” – an unusual way to open since the song begins with the extremely depressing lyrics, “All at once/ The world can overwhelm me/ There’s almost nothing that you could tell me/ That could ease my mind.” These words set the undertone for the rest of the track list. The title track speaks of the Iraq War but
comes out seeming like a jumble of metaphors and, overall, a bit overdone. It resembles a bunch of anti-war sentiments that were
simply mashed together and set to a go-with-the-flow beat. I can, however, appreciate the political theme.
Album Cover
“If I Had Eyes,” “What You Thought You Need” and “Go On” are more buoyant in nature. The drums and bongos stand out on the stripped-down acoustic record. It was nice, after a couple of downer songs, to hear a slightly quickened tempo. The ballad “Angel,” which consists of some of the CD’s most beautiful moments, speaks of the amazing transforming power of a smile or a kiss. This message is magnified by Johnson’s soothing voice. “Same Girl” has the same sentimental meaning. It starts off, “If you could read my mind/ You’d say, baby, you’re right/ And I don’t wanna fight anymore/ You’re usually righter than I am/ And I’m not a very good fighter/ And my, neither are you.” The other songs on the release tend to blend together with their low-key pace and forgettable lyrics. This album will be a favorite for true-blue Johnson groupies, but I don’t forsee it resulting in a ton of hits for pop radio. Although it lacks the feel-good Hawaiian rhythm that made “In Between Dreams” a favorite on the charts, it has the same unique formula to which fans are accustomed.
6
&
Arts Culture
Campus Poll: What did you get for Valentine’s Day?
“I got a V-Day card from a group of Christian hippies with a ferret.” – Maekol James
“I got my four wisdom teeth pulled.” – Phillis Escobar
Emily Walters Arts & Culture Editor
Imaginative writers on campus: take a seat and whip up some literary works. The Writers’ Club is now accepting submissions for its annual creative writing contest, and the deadline is fast approaching – March 7 at 5 p.m. Students may choose from four categories: fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction and scripts for plays or screenplays. Small cash prizes are given to the top three winners in each category, in addition to publication in the club’s yearly book. The collection will also feature short pieces written by the club members. “The club decided, instead of just publishing only the yearly contest winners in a small pamphlet … that we wanted to create a book each year,” said Writers’ Club President Greg Stein. “It’s a bit more work, but it is fun and worth it. (It) benefits not only the contest winners, but the club members as well.” Stein has been involved with the club for a few years. After the last president had to leave, he took over the job. It has now been “just over two years” since he accepted the position. The Writers’ Club meets every Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Winklesky Literary Arts Center – Roger Rook 220 – and is always open for anyone to drop in. Meetings consist of announcements and introductions, followed by the attendees reading their most recent writings to the group so that all may
“I didn’t get anything. I did get drunk.” – Tommy Polinski Campus Poll compiled by Genyva Laubach
critique and offer suggestions. Do not be frightened away at the thought of tough criticism; the environment is intimate and friendly, and while the conversation may get a little off-track at times, it is in a good way. “The meetings of the Writers’ Cub can vary,” said Rose Lefebvre, who works as an accommodations specialist in the Disability Resource Center at the college and holds the position of secretary in the Writers’ Club. “Sometimes we discuss movies, books, authors, plays. Sometimes we
Clackamas Print
A 10-year-old girl talking about penises isn’t funny or cute; it’s a clichéd gag and just a tad creepy. Sadly, that’s a good chunk of the comedy in “Definitely, Maybe.” Will Hayes’ (Ryan Reynolds) daughter Maya (Abigail Breslin) is supposed to be adorable, but she quickly becomes a nuisance. Honestly, she and her father talk about sex so much that I thought Chris Hanson was about to casually saunter into the room and have a little chat with Mr. Hayes. The premise of the film is that Hayes is going through a bitter divorce that is, obviously, upsetting his daughter. So, being the clever little lass that she is, Maya takes on the role of Dr. Phil and demands that her father tell her stories of his past relationships and how he met her mother. According to Maya, if her father does this, he will be able to figure out where he screwed up and fix his failed marriage. Unfortunately, this concept is about as realistic as Dr. Phil’s advice. Hayes agrees to his daughter’s demands, but on one condition: he changes all the names so she has to figure out which one of the three women he talks about is her mother. The story that he weaves for Maya is about as convoluted as a Marvel Comic book albeit less entertaining.
do some writing exercises for fun.” Stein said, “I am not sure how things were when the club started, but since I have been in there, things have changed. We have a bit more organized meetings.” “Beforehand, we did not do much of anything outside of the club,” he continued. “Occasionally, we go to one of the plays on campus as a group, to support the theatre department.” Lefebvre describes the Writers’ Club as “laidback, relaxed and a fun place to share ideas, thoughts, cre-
ations and ourselves.” “Meetings are always fun and interesting, and I love the way that the young people in the club accept me as one of them and treat me like a friend and cohort,” Lefebvre said. “Everyone is caring and kind.” For more information on the Writers’ Club, particularly its contest, contact English Instructor James Grabill at ext. 2824, by e-mail jimg@clackamas.edu, or stop by his office, room 225 in Roger Rook Hall.
Contributed by Rose Lefebvre
The Writers’ Club at its meeting last Friday, Feb. 15. From left to right, Matt Ostergren, Vice President; Ben Ripplinger; Greg Stein, President; Ted Johnson and Nate Courtney.
Movie is ‘Definitely, Maybe’ a hit and miss The Clackamas Print
“I got a rose and an avocado. It was sweet.” – Kaitlyn Wert
Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008
Club seeks students’ literary spawn
Ta y o S t a l n a k e r
“I got a swift kick in the ass.” – Glen Hoover
The
The story starts out in Hayes’ college days in Wisconsin, where he’s currently dating a woman named Emily (Elizabeth Banks). At this time, Hayes is a young political consultant and speech writer who is headed out to New York City to work on Bill Clinton’s ’92 campaign for president. This is where the movie gets interesting. Hayes’ passion for Clinton and the three women in his life are juxtaposed nicely and make for some great comedy. Clinton jokes never get old – they just get funnier. The other “savior” of the film is Kevin Kline. Kline plays an overdramatic political author/ journalist who’s dating one of Hayes’ love interests, Summer (Rachel Weisz). Kline’s character is a raging alcoholic and womanizer. He reminded me of a leftist Christopher Hitchens, and provided an amusing drunken scene with Hayes about halfway through the film. Despite the enjoyable scenes at the Clinton campaign headquarters and Kline, the rest of the film is filled with all the same schlock that one would expect from a Hollywood romcom. The story is one we’ve all heard before, and most viewers will probably leave feeling entertained but unfulfilled. That’s the problem with most romantic comedies – they’re pointless and don’t offer people a realistic look at the ups and downs of love. I’m not saying “Definitely, Maybe” is an awful film, but I might be. Maybe.
Sports
The Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008
Clackamas Print
7
brothers don’t just have dna in common
Mike and Vance Beeson are separated in weight class but joined in interests and academics Andrea Simpson Sports Editor
The Greek philosopher Antisthenes said, “When brothers agree, no fortress is so strong as their common life.” For the Beeson brothers, common life isn’t hard to find. Both are full-time students at Clackamas and among the school’s best wrestlers. Mike and Vance Beeson hail from Eagle, Idaho, located right outside of Boise. They wrestled at Eagle High School, where Vance won the state competition all four years and had an astounding record of 154-3. Mike placed second as a freshman and junior, winning state as a senior. Wrestling is in their blood. “My 15-year-old brother wrestled but quit in the sixth grade,” Mike, who is two years older, said. “My dad did it in high school. It’s just part of the family.” The sport has also brought them closer together as siblings. “It has helped us make a lot of the same friends,” Mike said. “It brought us to the same college, too.” The college has played a pivotal role in their education. “I came to Clackamas because of grade issues,” Vance said. “My grades weren’t good enough to go directly to a university. I’m from Boise, so it was closer than any other junior colleges with a good wrestling program. That was a big reason to come here.” The brothers are aiming for their trans-
fer degrees and plan on returning to their home state to attend Boise State University. “If we go to the same school, we will probably room together,” Mike said. Vance added, “Even if we don’t go to the same school, it probably won’t change our relationship that much.” According to those who work with them, the siblings definitely interact as teammates. “They act like brothers,” said Head Wrestling Coach Josh Rhoden. “It makes it fun because there are five or six sophomores on the team, which is unusual. We are a fairly experienced team. “Community colleges tend to be a revolving door. They feed into it more than the other guys, but it does help with the team chemistry. They are all making jokes before a match, and it helps loosen the tension.” Wrestling isn’t the only area of their lives that is associated with fond memories. “My first memory of my brother is at his fifth birthday party,” Mike said. “He was wearing blue pants with white stars on them, MC Hammer-style.” More recently, Mike and Vance have bonded over wild, and sometimes illegal, escapades. “We went cliff-jumping at midnight,” Mike said. “It was in high school, prob-
Baseball shows dedication throughout the entire year Dale Balbi
The Clackamas Print
ting,” he added. McBride has also received attention from the major leagues. He was recently drafted in the 42nd round by the Kansas City Royals. However, baseball isn’t the athletes’ only focus – they have an average 3.2 GPA. “These guys are students first and baseball players second,” Robinson said. The team has one main aspiration for the season: “Our goal is to finish first or second in the region, in order to make the playoffs,” Robinson said. The baseball team’s first game is March 1 against Spokane Falls Community College. “We are having a good time and are excited about the games,” Robinson said.
The Clackamas baseball team looks more dedicated than ever. The team includes 15 of last season’s 32 players. Consequently, experience is one of its strengths. Also as a result, the players know each other as athletes as well as people. “These guys mesh well together both on and off the field, and have good team chemistry,” said Head Coach Robin Robinson. The team adheres to a seemingly busy schedule. “September through October, the team practices their baseball skills,” Robinson said. “November through December, the team works in the weight room. January through February, the team practices more, and March though May, the team plays games.” Some of the players look forward to practicing at least two months prior to the seasons’ start. “I like it. I work on ways to put the ball in play and balance mechanics,” said centerfielder Todd McBride. Lydia E. Bashaw Clackamas Print “I always learn something Jim Bray swings at a pitch during a new every practice about hitscrimmage game on Friday, Feb. 15.
ably our junior year.” Vance said, “Once, we broke into an Aquatic Center in Boise. There was a maintenance shell on the roof, and we broke the lock on it and jumped from the rafters into the pool and just swam around for a while.” When they are not wrestling or studying, the men enjoy different pastimes. “I hang out with friends,” Vance said. “I enjoy working out in the gym as well.” Mike said, “I like to long board when it’s sunny … I like to wakeboard and
try to snowboard. I like hanging with friends.” With nationals coming up, neither Mike nor Vance has much time for anything other than preparing to compete with some of the most talented wrestlers from around the country. “I am excited for nationals and at the same time can’t wait for it to be over,” Vance said. “It’s been a long season.” The NJCAA National Championships are being held in Rochester, Minn., on Feb. 22 and 23.
Basketball looks forward to securing spot for NWAACCs With just one game to go for men’s and women’s basketball, the teams anticipate victories Megan Koler Editor in Chief
ings are 8-5 in league play and 16-12 in season play. Both the men’s and women’s teams will face off against Chemeketa Community College in a home game today. The women will play at 5:30 p.m., and the men at 7:30 p.m., in the Randall Gym. This will be their last home game this season. Information regarding the NWAACC championships – hosted in Kennewick, Wash., from Feb. 28 to March 2 – can be found at the college’s athletics Web site, http://depts.clackamas.edu/athletics/ Basketball.
A spot in this year’s Northwest Athletic Association of Community College’s championship tournament seems imminent for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, who each have a mere one game to go. The women’s team won both their games this week. They defeated Mt. Hood Community College at their home game last Wednesday, 75-53, and Southwest Oregon this past Saturday, 55-53. The men’s team won their home game against Mt. Hood CC as well, 72-60, but they faltered in Coos Bay against Southwest Oregon, losing 75-110. Both teams are nestled comfortably within the top four places in the NWAACC standings, while the women’s team is tied for third with Linn-Benton. The men’s team also sits in third place. With only one game left to go, their chances of placing in time Megan Koler Clackamas Print for NWAACCs seem secure. Coach Jim Martineau instructs the team The women’s standings are Feb. 13 during the game against Mt. Hood 8-5 in league play and 18-9 in season play. The men’s stand- Community College.
8
Back Page
The Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008
Clackamas Print
Can you feel the love? ^.^ Continued quotes: What did you get for V-Day? “I got the adoration of all my fans.” – Tim Lussier “I got roses, a teddy bear and Seattle Chocolates delivered to my house.” – Staci Savage “I actually got a break-up.” – Mikael Aalta
Characters Vike and Anjel from “Random Mist” promoting “Print Love”
Random Mist by Mistymarie Wilks-Salguero
Sp rts Sc res Men’s Basketball
02-13-08 – Clackamas 72, Mt. Hood 60 02-16-08 – SW Oregon 110, Clackamas 75
Wo w ! We g a v e y o u t w o awesome athletes this week!
Games This Week Women’s Basketball Today - Clackamas vs Chemeketa (Home) at 5:30 p.m.
Men’s Basketball Today - Clackamas vs. Chemeketa (Home) at 7:30 p.m.
Wrestling Feb 22-23 NJCAA National Championships (Rochester, Minn) at 10a.m.
Women’s Basketball
02-13-08 – Clackamas 75, Mt. Hood 53 02-16-08 – Clackamas 55, SW Oregon 53