MEET THE 18 ASPIRING REPORTERS WHO CREATED THIS NEWSPAPER, PAGES 22-31 t

THEOREGON STATE UNIVERSITYPRIDE and THE OREGONIAN/OREGONLIVE JUNE 2016

What’s next? ABOVE How will small farms adjust to Oregon’s upcoming minimum wage increase? PAGE 16

LEFT Experts study the evolution of style to predict trends PAGE 14

RIGHT Oregon State University’s robotics team takes the next step in technology PAGE 12

Check out more at oregonlive.com/teens The Class of 2016: Meet this year’s reporters and editors and hear what diversity means to them. “Diversity is people with different abilities, flaws and backgrounds coexisting harmoniously.” • Reporter Jovani Camarena

Page 2 / June 2016 Page 3 / June 2016 Introducing The Pride staff of 2016

Alex Diaz Allison Echeverria Dylan Palmer Izzy Escobar Isabel Angeles Lim Jovani Camarena

Elizabeth Radcliffe Hanin Najjar Julian Wyatt Sonide Bocage Sarah Milshtein Kyleah Puyear

The 18 students and nine editors at the High ABOVE | Oregon State Journalism Coordinator School Journalism Institute filed daily blog posts Steven Sandberg interviews reporters Hanin Najjar about their experiences reporting and writing and Dylan Palmer during a live radio broadcast during the weeklong program at Oregon State with KBVR-FM Corvallis. Listen to the interview at University. Excerpts are below: From oregonlive.com/teens. BELOW | A dog show, including this corgi, distracted Aside from personal connections, being surrounded reporters on the way back to the newsroom. by writers provides me with the biggest variety of the blog Photos by BEN BRINK AND JOVANI CAMARENA views and writing styles I have ever encountered. Read more at oregonlive.com/teens With this large pool of diversity, I can learn as much from my peers as I do my editors. I’ve learned that not It was an absolutely incredible experience to get everybody needs a journalism class to be a writer, or to conduct an actual interview, and it was even more Maya Fiallos Kyler Kaykeo Melanie Gonzalez Toli Tate Amelia Underhill Annie Vong needs the experience of working on a newspaper to I’ve never seen a newsroom with so many people coming from so many backgrounds. I want to be part inconceivable to be able to share this experience with a have a love and understanding for reporting. With the legitimate journalist ... I’ll carry this experience with me diversity of writers all working towards the same goal of a community that is diverse and accepting, and I’m for years to come, as I continue my journey toward a as me, I have learned that it only takes one thing in glad I found that here at the institute. career in journalism. common to bring people together. No matter if you were the best writer in the world High School Journalism We would also like to thank the or knew nothing about journalism, this program — Reporter Amelia Underhill, Silverton High School ach summer, The Oregonian/OregonLive partners — Reporter Kyleah Puyear, St. Helens High School with Oregon State University to host the High School Institute is a following people who served as editors, allowed students to improve in writing and to meet collaboration between photographers, designers, presenters and strangers with the same passion as I do. Journalism Institute. My introduction to journalism was as a high school Just watching these incredible young adults interact The seven-day program provides real-life training The Oregonian/ resident assistants at the institute: — Reporter Annie Vong, Parkrose High School E junior, where one of the first class assignments was with each other and tackle project after project in to young journalists with experiences and backgrounds OregonLive and Oregon to randomly pair up, interview our partner and then a week’s time has been so inspiring and awesome. underrepresented in mainstream media. Newsrooms need voices State University. It Jake Arnold Cathy Noah A few weeks ago, during finals, I started wondering write a profile story. Consider my case of déjà vu, then, Hearing them tell stories about their lives and the like theirs to remain relevant and to reflect the increasingly diverse would not be possible Everton Bailey Jr. Dillon Pilorget if the writing I was doing was important. when the first task for the students at the High School daily struggles they take in stride gives me reassurance communities in which we all live. without the generous Samantha Bakall George Rede I always wrote in journals because it made me feel Journalism Institute was to do the exact same thing. about the next generation. If these kids are leading the Many students who attend the program have linguistic or support of: Shawn Barkdull Nora Simon better. I was able to record all my thoughts about So hello from the other side. I’ll admit it’s a bit odd way, we’ll be in just hands. cultural backgrounds different from those that predominate • Oregonian Media Group Aleck Blanger Emily E. Smith school and personal life without really worrying about to be here 12 years later, guiding aspiring journalists Oregon’s secondary school system. Some live in low-income President Steve Moss Ben Brink Hunter Stewart what other people would think. — Editor Samantha Bakall, The Oregonian/OregonLive through how to report and write stories. But it’s also households, and some are in line to become the first person in their and Vice President and Eder Campuzano Wesley Uno But I never really realized the impact of writing completely invigorating to watch their skills blossom family to attend college. The program also reaches students with Editor Mark Katches Lorena Colcer Koji Wieber on other people until I came to the High School As an editor here would say, it’s about stepping over a few days. Journalism Institute. disabilities or those without access to a high school newspaper or • Oregon State University Kjerstin Gabrielson Stephanie Yao Long outside of the comfort zone and into a lizard suit. journalism program. Orange Media Network Molly Harbarger — Editor Gina Mizell, The Oregonian/OregonLive — Reporter Sarah Milshtein, Westview High School You step into your scales and claws and zip yourself This year’s class of 18 talented students — from 10 high and Precollege Programs Anthony Heatherly in. Now, whenever you’re faced with something that schools, seven cities and two states — spent a week in June as • (Medford) Mail Tribune Tony Hernandez I’m reminded this week, too, that journalism is a would normally scare you or make you nervous, there’s working journalists. They reported, wrote and rewrote dozens of Editor Bob Hunter Samantha Matsumoto daring act. no need to be. It’s like a persona. We’ve asked them to think critically and dive into stories with help from professional mentors. • Pro Photo Supply, Gina Mizell Soon after I learned about it, I was forced to put on topics that are unfamiliar to them. To talk to strangers, The stories they produced are tied to a simple but powerful Portland Melissa Navas my lizard suit and face one of my biggest fears: talking theme: “What’s next?” They asked big questions about current • Nikon Elliot Njus develop rapport with their sources and glean the information that will shape their stories. To be open to strangers. It’s not a cure-all — I still got scared when issues and explored the impact of important trends. Their work I would interview people. Whenever I would approach offers a glimpse into the future — one these students will be part to correction and critique. And to do all of this on deadline. someone, I would be scared they would reject me, of writing. but everyone was actually very accommodating and Donations in support of High School Journalism Institute The good news is these students are daring. I’ve In addition to the stories in this newspaper, read more from this friendly. With my lizard suit, I’m not afraid to face my year’s students at oregonlive.com/teens. can be made to the OSU Foundation, witnessed them push themselves, and even in this fears, and I know this is something I can carry with me — Molly Young, The Oregonian/OregonLive 850 S.W. 35th St., Corvallis, OR 97333, 541-737-4218 short time I’ve seen it pay off. They’re learning so and Steven Sandberg, Oregon State University or online at osufoundation.org. much and so quickly. in all my endeavors. — Editor Emily E. Smith, The Oregonian/OregonLive — Reporter Isabel Angeles Lim, Parkrose High School “Diversity gives a new perspective to the world.” • Reporter Annie Vong “Understanding being different makes us original, and being original is such a gold.” • Reporter Amelia Underhill

Page 4 / June 2016 / Commentary Page 5 / June 2016 The truth of Openness on white privilege, disability not an Off deadline by the numbers invitation to judge TOP | Julian Wyatt (left) takes a photo on the campus of Oregon State University while Sonide Bocage poses for another frame. Photo by MAYA FIALLOS By ELIZABETH RADCLIFFE By SARAH MILSHTEIN MIDDLE | Dylan Palmer keeps one eye on the photographer during a portrait session. Photo by ALLISON ECHEVERRIA Contrary to what you might hear people like Bill O’Reilly of Fox Walking into chemistry class earlier this year, I saw we had a substitute BOTTOM LEFT | Allison Echeverria rests during a News say, white privilege is not “the big lie that is keeping some African- teacher. photography workshop in the Orange Media Network newsroom. Photo by DYLAN PALMER Americans from reaching their full potential.” In fact, white privilege is The break in routine meant I had to explain, for probably the 50th time in my school career, why the teacher needed to wear the voice amplifier I had BOTTOM RIGHT | Editor Samantha Bakall watches reporters real and harmful, and it is vital that around my neck. on assignment at the Oregon State University hop farm white Americans acknowledge this outside Corvallis. Photo by ANNIE VONG The device, which looks like a thick, three-inch-long dog tag, transmits reality in order to do something sound to a device I wear that, in turn, transmits it to my hearing aids. I’ve about it. had a hearing impairment since I was 7 that muffles sound, as if everyone is The disparity in opportunity always underwater. by race is evident in the country’s I asked the teacher to wear the amplifier to explain the instructions and rates of unemployment, scholarship the agenda for the day. awards and incarceration, to name “Is this some kind of joke on the sub?” he said. I was speechless. He just a few areas. continued, “I just have a hard time believing someone who is 15 can be Although unemployment rates hearing impaired.” have considerably improved in This teacher was an exception in that he was so rude, but many ask the last few years, they are still questions. I’ve learned to appreciate those questions when they seek to disproportionately high among understand rather than judge. Two days after the encounter with the substitute teacher, I recounted it to minorities. According to the Bureau my regular chemistry teacher, who wears the amplifier microphone every of Labor Statistics, unemployment day when I’m in class. She, too, was upset. She apologized and said later among whites is 4.1 percent, while the rate among blacks is 8.2 percent and she had told school administrators. among Hispanics or Latinos it’s 5.6 percent. She previously had asked In America’s universities, measures such as affirmative action have questions to find out more about afforded more scholarships to minorities, but they haven’t gone far enough. my hearing impairment. She asked Mark Kantrowitz, author of “Secrets to Winning a Scholarship,” told specifically whether it would National Public Radio in 2011, “(Minorities) represent about a third of the affect my work in labs or group applicants, but only about 28 percent of the recipients. Caucasian students discussions. And she offered to receive 72 percent of all scholarships. Minority students receive only 28 stay after class if I needed her to percent of all scholarships.” When white students complain there is nothing repeat part of a lesson. available to them simply because they are not minorities, it could not be At the same time, she further from the truth. encouraged me to push myself harder — which I took to mean she Perhaps the most obvious form of white privilege in America today can wouldn’t let me use my hearing be found in the country’s prisons. According to the NAACP, out of the 2.3 loss as an excuse. million people who are incarcerated, African Americans alone make up 1 Each of these teachers were, million. The association says on its website, “Together, African Americans in their own way, curious in their and Hispanics comprised 58 percent of all prisoners in 2008, even though questions about my hearing aids. African Americans and Hispanics make up approximately one quarter of the But the substitute was disrespectful. I was angry that he would not U.S. population.” believe me — why would anyone lie about being disabled? Moreover, it A recent prominent case of white privilege in the criminal justice system made me feel he didn’t see how hard I was trying in school to learn and was the sentence handed to a white Stanford University swimmer who in hear what my teachers were saying. I was lucky to have the amplifier, but January 2015 sexually assaulted a woman incapacitated by alcohol. Though it’s embarrassing enough to wear around. All he had to do was wear it for he faced 14 years in prison and prosecutors asked the judge for six years, he 15 minutes. was given just six months in jail and three years’ probation. The judge said The other teacher saw I was struggling to hear in class and wanted to a harsher sentence would’ve had a “severe impact” on the student, who was understand how to help. That made me feel welcome in the classroom, and that she would help me to reach my full potential. an Olympic contender. In other situations, people often ask about my hearing loss and how my Those who deny the existence of white privilege only add to the problem. hearing aids work. The questions used to make me angry. Refusing to acknowledge the damage that this prevalent form of racism has But eventually I realized that they’re trying to put themselves in my on our country and society just puts Americans further away from equality. shoes. If I don’t answer them, they’re going to make up an answer for As the recipients of an inherent and sometimes unjust privilege in life, it themselves. is up to whites, myself included, to collectively recognize the problem and I’m glad to answer any questions about my hearing aids. I’d rather work to fight its repercussions until all Americans can say they are truly people ask than sit and wonder. equal. But when I answer, it’s for your curiosity, not for your criticism. “Diversity to me is representation. It’s making sure everyone’s voice is heard.” • Editor Eder Campuzano “Diversity is being surrounded by people who see things differently than you do.” • Reporter Kyleah Puyear

Page 6 / June 2016 Page 7 / June 2016 As an earthquake threatens the region, OSU researchers urge people to prepare By ALLISON ECHEVERRIA and DYLAN PALMER

Patrick Corcoran, a coastal natural hazards specialist at Oregon State University, uses his OSU-branded fuzzy dice to raise awareness of the colossal earthquake expected to hit the Pacific Northwest. “Pick two numbers between one and six,” he often says to coastal residents. “Two and four,” he said someone might reply. Corcoran then explains that the odds of a massive earthquake occurring in their lifetime are the same as rolling one of those numbers. In the next 50 years, he said, scientists believe there’s a 37 percent chance of a magnitude 8 to 9 earthquake striking somewhere along the northern half of the West Coast, known as the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Experts at OSU have worked to spread awareness and preparedness for when that quake, colloquially referred to as “The Big One,” hits the region. “If the lottery was one out of three, I’d be playing,” he said. The earthquake will come from the subduction zone, which spans from Vancouver Island in Canada to northern California, according to the Pacific ABOVE | After an earthquake simulation, a deep gap appeared between a concrete pile and the surface from lateral pressure. of similar magnitude to the catastrophic He said the pressure of the Cascadia they should be worried because of the Northwest Seismic Network. one in Japan in 2011. That upheaval Subduction Zone will increase until unknown outcome. Estimated impacts The fault presents the Northwest BELOW | Pedro Lomónaco, director of OSU’s O.H. Hinsdale Wave Research Lab, shows the results of an earthquake simulation, also caused a massive tsunami to hit the it ruptures. The break will cause the “We have no cultural reference for of The Big One with a troubling prospect: an earthquake such as the displacement of a pillar and cracks in the ground. nation’s shores. anticipated earthquake. this,” Corcoran said. “So the issue is not A similar earthquake in the Because some people on the to downplay the hazard but to up-play the Northwest would damage buildings, continent haven’t felt significant hazard.” • Almost 10 million tons bridges and roads, along with earthquakes in the past, Lomónaco said Yeh said the methods for alerting of debris telecommunication, water and waste there is a lack of belief that the Big One people to incoming tsunamis and • 27,600 houses displaced systems, according to the Oregon will occur. earthquakes vary. There is virtually no • 24,000 buildings Resilience Plan. The aftermath would However, he said scientists have warning time for an earthquake, which destroyed require up to a year of rebuilding, an found evidence in the sediment deposits could result in the deaths of numerous effort that would cost at least $32 billion. along the coastal marshes that prove people because of collapsed buildings, • 85,000 buildings The number of combined deaths tsunamis have hit the shores in the past. he said. As for a tsunami, warnings can extensively damaged from the earthquake and resulting “It’s not a matter of if it’s going range anywhere from a few minutes to a • 650 to 5,000 dead after tsunami would likely exceed 10,000, to happen, it’s a matter of when,” said few hours, he said. the earthquake with more than 30,000 injured, Lomónaco. Yeh emphasizes the importance according to the Cascadia Region Experts say science cannot answer of constructing earthquake-resilient • 600 to 5,000 deaths due Earthquake Workgroup, a collection of the question of when it will happen. buildings and a foolproof system for to the tsunami businesspeople, emergency managers, “A prediction is very difficult at this evacuation on the coast to ensure scientists and others. moment,” said Yeh, adding that people residents’ safety. Source: Oregon Resilience Plan Until recently, people believed the want an estimate of when the quake “You have to have a quality life,” Pacific Northwest did not have any will occur because the impact will be Yeh said, “and at the same time, you earthquakes or tsunamis, said Harry tremendous. have to be aware of this very severe Yeh, a professor in OSU’s College of Corcoran said that people don’t natural hazard. Sometimes nature is very Engineering specializing in tsunami- want to believe it will happen, but that friendly, and sometimes it’s not.” related problems. That’s largely because of a lack of documentation and the discovery of the subduction zone around 1970, he said. This continent was settled by people far later than others, “so we do not have a long written history in this country,” Yeh said. However, research conducted in 2012 by Chris Goldfinger, a professor at OSU’s College of Earth, Ocean ABOVE | A pressure test at the research and Atmospheric Sciences, found that lab created a large crack in a titanium- numerous earthquakes have struck along reinforced slab of concrete. the Cascadia Subduction Zone over the LEFT | Pedro Lomónaco, director of past 10,000 years. OSU’s O.H. Hinsdale Wave Research Lab, Subduction zones exist where heavy simulates the effects of liquefaction, oceanic crusts sink below the lighter the process when saturated or partially continental crust, according to the U.S. saturated soil behaves like a liquid with Geological Survey. They lead to the applied stress. formation of mountains, like the Cascades, said Pedro Lomónaco, director of OSU’s Photos by ALLISON ECHEVERRIA O.H. Hinsdale Wave Research Laboratory. “Diversity is found in the mindset and voices of any individual, regardless of their differences.” • Reporter Kyler Kaykeo “Diversity is understanding gained through exposure to different points of view.” • Editor Elliot Njus

Page 8 / June 2016 Page 9 / June 2016 Crafting the future of Oregon’s expanding beer economy

By KYLEAH PUYEAR and ANNIE VONG expand to keep costs down,” he said. 15, a popular Corvallis brewery. Emerson predicts that competition may slowly For Townsend, who spends his days tending doz- Shaun Townsend stands beside Oregon State Uni- eliminate smaller breweries, making room for the more ens of new hop varieties in search of the next popular versity’s experimental hop field with a bag of bright successful breweries to grow. breed, rising temperatures, increased pest concerns green hops in each hand. “We’re going to see more disruptions and more and possible water shortages are expected to affect He reaches into one, pulls out a few dried cones and breweries exit the market,” he added. the growing cycle and, by association, the craft beer crushes them gently between his palms, dipping his For many Oregonians, their love of craft beer cen- industry. nose into his hands to take in the pine and citrus scent. ters on the unique taste that innovative brewers use to “It’s like whack-a-mole,” Townsend said. “There Townsend, a hop breeder at the university, works with bring a local feel to their beer, Emerson said. are so many issues popping up, you never know where other scientists to develop new varieties, helping pro- “Craft beer is an expression of the time and place of it’s going to come from.” vide brewers with new taste profiles. where it’s brewed,” he said. On average, hop plants take three years to mature “The hops are the palette brewers paint with,” he To achieve that local taste, brewers often use Ore- before they’re ready for harvest. But warmer winters said. “We’re trying to give them more colors.” gon-grown ingredients such as hops, barley and fruits. can delay the plant’s natural dormancy cycle, pushing With more than 220 craft breweries statewide — the Breweries buy a variety of ingredients based on the back the growing season and eventual harvest. For second highest per-capita in the nation — beer and the style and seasonal demands from consumers. brewers who rely on local hop farmers, this can affect ingredients used to make it are key components in Or- “I brew what I want, but I also pay attention to what their production. egon’s economy, communities and culture. The num- consumers want,” said Nick Arzner, owner of Block To ensure they will have enough hops for future ber of small breweries is growing yearly, providing batches, many breweries rely on hop contracts, work- new jobs and styles for consumers, but with such rapid ing one-on-one with farmers to reserve what they growth, the industry is poised for change. need. According to the national Brewers Association, the Arzner said he has contracted his hop supply for his craft beer industry contributed more than $1.8 billion sought-after India pale ales and experimental brews for to Oregon’s economy in 2014 and employed more than OPPOSITE PAGE | Hop breeder Shaun Townsend holds the next six years. a handful of dried hop cones, top, from Oregon State 17,000 people. Looking toward the future, craft brewers such as University’s experimental hop farm, below. As demand for craft beer continues to rise, there are Arzner are staying competitive by expanding their dozens more breweries opening every year across the BELOW | A brewer at Block 15 walks between distribution and canning more of their beers, making state. But not everyone can be successful, said Patrick brewing tanks while cleaning. them more accessible for consumers. Emerson, an economist at Oregon State University. “In the past 10 years, it’s become an industry that’s “New small breweries are going to face pressure to Photos by ANNIE VONG and KYLEAH PUYEAR significant statewide,” Emerson said.

More than 220 craft breweries statewide, the second highest per capita in the nation More than $1.8 billion the craft beer industry contributed to Oregon’s economy in 2014 More than 17,000

people employed by the Oregon beer industry in 2014

Source: Brewers Association

“It’s like whack-a-mole. There are so many issues popping up, you never know where it’s going to come from.”

Shaun Townsend, hop breeder at Oregon State University “Diversity means being able to see, appreciate and tolerate our unique differences.” • Editor George Rede “Diversity means listening to a wide array of experiences and respecting them.” • Reporter Elizabeth Radcliffe

Page 10 / June 2016 Page 11 / June 2016

police car, making it hard for officers to see the violation. Advocates join forces Campus rape That’s why state police have added reporting New tools join the fight 40 unmarked cars to their fleet. In cars without markings and visible lights, A Washington Post Granger said, police see how drivers to combat victim shaming behave when they don’t know they’re analysis of federal campus safety data found wide being watched. against distracted driving Kapri said she’s interested in By KYLER KAYKEO and TOLI TATE dealt with suicidal thoughts she said. With no shifting. differences among U.S. The Stanford case could be a sign. When a New York proposal to use a new one to talk to, Tracy saw no path to closure. colleges and universities in Brenda Tracy remembers waking up Judy Neighbours, assistant director of student-athlete Brock Turner was sentenced device transportation officials are the morning of June 24, 1998, in a friend’s OSU’s Survivor Advocacy and Resource to six months in jail with probation for raping their reporting of campus By ISABEL ANGELES LIM good at multitasking,” said Marie said crash and conviction data suggest calling “textalyzers.” As police use apartment in Corvallis. She was naked, and on Center, said she’s seen about 200 victims an unconscious woman, thousands petitioned rapes in 2014, the most and SARAH MILSHTEIN Dodds, a spokeswoman for AAA teens are actually less likely to text and breathalyzers to test blood alcohol her lay a used condom and vomit. Tracy said since the center opened in October. Though online to change the sentence. current year available. Oregon/Idaho. “But the reality is that drive than other age groups. content in the field, they could use a she had been gang-raped by four men several few cases reach police or campus authorities, At Baylor University, the school fired The Post analysis, Andie Portie recalls the time her we’re not.” That’s why some states have turned textalyzer to test whether drivers were hours before, including two Oregon State Neighbours said it’s more important to give football coach Art Briles and demoted college published June 7 and friend crashed a car into a fire hydrant. Texting while driving is often their attention to other demographics, texting or calling on a cellphone without victims information about their options and President Kenneth Starr after investigators University football players. covering more than 1,300 The friend dropped a phone under thought of as a youth problem, and including children not even old enough accessing the content of the messages. Tracy, then 24, reported the incident to simply listen. found that Baylor failed to respond education campaigns frequently schools with at least 1,000 the car seat and looked down to pick it to drive. Lawmakers in New York are police the next day and told her family. Instead “One of the things that contributes to appropriately to reports of sexual assault up. The car swerved and went off the focus on teenagers. Indeed, a recent In Connecticut, state transportation considering laws that would allow survivors being able to recover well,” she said, and dating violence allegedly committed by students each, found 99 of receiving support, she said, she was blamed, road, hitting the hydrant. The friend and AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety officials and Boston public broadcaster police to use the devices, The New rejected and accused of lying. Discouraged, “is having a safe place to go to talk about it.” football players. schools that had at least 10 a passenger were OK, she said, but the study found that 12 percent of crashes WGBH launched an online game meant Neighbours believes that survivors Neighbours is working to educate York Times reported, and which would she declined to press charges. reports of rape on their main car was wrecked. involving teen drivers occurred while to encourage kids to pressure their find support from hearing stories from other incoming OSU freshmen about sex crimes allow police officers to suspend the Campus sexual assault is a long-standing campuses in 2014. Brown That’s why Portie, a 21-year-old they were using their cellphone. parents to stop texting and driving. licenses of drivers who refuse the use national problem, given new attention by survivors that are similar to their own. using an online program called Haven. But Kelly Kapri, who manages the Tracy shared her story with The “We need to see that as more and more University in Providence, Oregon State University student, doesn’t A federal agency, meanwhile, took of the textalyzer. Similarly, using the recent cases at Stanford, Baylor and Vanderbilt Oregon Department of Transportation’s Oregonian/OregonLive in 2014. Since then, survivors come forward, people don’t question Rhode Island, and the text while driving. to shaming texting drivers on social technology in Oregon would require a involving student-athletes. she has become a leading voice for sexual them, don’t say, ‘What’d you do wrong?’” “It’s never that important,” she said. Safe and Courteous Driving program, media. When a driver tweeted she change in state law, Kapri said. Oregon is among states that have University of Connecticut assault victims. Neighbours said. Texting while driving, along with was bored while driving, the National States across the country are passed laws to assist in the investigation and topped the list with 43 each. “The support was incredible, and I did not This week, Tracy spoke to the University other distractions, is increasingly to Highway Traffic Safety Administration prosecution of rape cases. Many campuses, The Post also found each taking different approaches to expect it,” she said. “People understood that I of Nebraska football team at the invitation of blame for serious crashes, authorities publicly replied, “We’d rather you be including Oregon State University, are working addressing texting and driving to see was trying to help other people that had been Coach Mike Riley, head coach at OSU when about 500 schools that had say. So as transportation officials in bored than in a wreck.” to provide more resources to victims of sex what works, Kapri said. through the same thing.” Tracy was allegedly assaulted. Two of the zero reports of rape that year Oregon and elsewhere once developed Authorities have also found laws crimes. “I could probably “As a nation, we’re all struggling,” Tracy teamed up with Portland attorney men accused of raping Tracy were members on their main campuses. new education campaigns and on texting and driving are difficult to Three recent studies show that one in five she said. Jacqueline Swanson to lobby the Oregon of Riley’s team. Each was suspended for Oregon State University enforcement techniques to combat enforce. women are victims of sexual assault. In one Legislature for changes that would give one game and given 25 hours of community find someone of the largest studies ever done concerning and the University of Oregon drunken driving, they’re now looking Oregon State Police Senior Trooper prosecutors more time to bring cases against service. reported 6 each. for tactics that will persuade drivers to Scott Granger and other officers on college sexual violence, a survey by the accused rapists. Lawmakers passed a bill in “I absolutely believe that there is healing Association of American Universities last year Reed College, a private stay off their phones — or at least make texting and patrol usually look for drivers holding 2015 to extend the statute of limitations for on the other side of this meeting for me,” it easier to catch drivers in the act. their hand up to their head, or for a found that more than 20 percent of female rape from six years to 12. In 2016, they added Tracy told The Pride before flying to Nebraska. liberal arts school in undergraduates said they were victims of In Oregon, an average of five bright glow on the driver’s face from a a provision that if new evidence is found even “There really is something to be said about Portland, had the highest people were injured each week in a driving within five cellphone screen. Oregon State Police Troopers Scott sexual assault and misconduct. Meanwhile, after 12 years, the statute of limitations does the healing power of accountability and of an total report of rapes per Granger (left) and Ian Normand show campus crime statistics show an increasing distracted driving crash involving a “I could probably find someone not apply. apology.” 1,000 students. Reed, with an unmarked police car on the campus number of reported rapes at college campuses. Tracy and Swanson also worked with On June 22, Tracy found herself face to cellphone between 2010 and 2014, the minutes of being texting and driving within five minutes an enrollment of 1,394 in Corvallis, one of 40 such cars the Tracy and other advocates say there is state Sen. Sara Gelser, D-Corvallis, to pass face with Riley. They hugged. He apologized. state transportation department said. In of being on patrol,” said Granger. state police agency added to its fleet still work to do in shifting beliefs away from Melissa’s Law, a statewide protocol with the She cried. students, reported 18 rapes, the same period, more than 1,500 people on patrol.” Phones, he said, “are like an appendage in an effort to catch more distracted victim blaming toward greater support and goal of resolving all sex crime cases in a timely Tracy and her son, Darius Adams, are a rate of 12.9 per 1,000. were convicted on average each month of the body for some people.” drivers. understanding of their ordeal. manner. The law is named after Melissa Bittler, continuing efforts to persuade the NCAA OSU, with 28,886 of using a cellphone while driving. Oregon State Police Senior Trooper But people tend to put their phone Scott Granger Photo by SARAH MILSHTEIN Victims of sexual assault are often blamed a Portland 14-year-old killed in 2001. to ban student-athletes who commit violent students in Corvallis, and “Human beings like to think we’re down the second they see a marked for what happened to them. People argue that “It’s not about strengthening the offenses such as rape and domestic abuse. UO, with an enrollment of victims’ clothes or behavior incite the abuse, punishments,” Gelser said. “It’s more of “We just have to decide that human lives while minimizing assailants’ actions. strengthening investigations.” are more important than athletic ability,” Tracy 24,096 in Eugene, each The lack of support from Tracy’s Along with legal gains in Oregon, the said, “and we have to start looking at how had a rate of 0.2 per 1,000 community made her feel ashamed and backlash in a handful of cases across the we’re socializing our men and our boys, what students. isolated. For years, she hated her body and country suggests that cultural attitudes are is healthy masculinity.” Sources: The Washington Post, U.S. Education Department

Help for victims

The Survivor Advocacy and Resource Center at Oregon State University offers an open door to sexual assault victims with a mantra of “listen, believe, support.”

For information: Student Health Services 311 Plageman Building 108 S.W. Memorial Place Corvallis, OR 97331 541-737-9355 survivoradvocacy@ oregonstate.edu

During a Skype interview with Pride reporters, Brenda Tracy said she hopes that sharing her story about rape will inspire other victims to speak out.

Photo by BEN BRINK “A mix of races, cultures, languages, sexualities, genders and opinions coming together.” • Reporter Allison Echeverria “Diversity is finding parallels in seemingly opposite individuals.” • Reporter Isabel Angeles Lim

Page 12 / June 2016 Page 13 / June 2016 OSU builds human-like robot, launches ‘next revolution’

By ELIZABETH RADCLIFFE The robot featured on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” is called ATRIAS, a four-year, $4.7 million Members of the Oregon State University robotics project involving robotics engineers and students at team got unexpected national attention when come- OSU and two other universities. The team designed and dian Stephen Colbert mocked it in his late-night bit built what they say is the first robot to accurately and “Nerds vs. Robots.” efficiently mimic the way humans walk. Engineers are “I think it’s pretty obvious what’s happening now planning to perfect the model with a new robot here,” Colbert says after showing a clip of the en- they named Cassie, which could affect the future of ev- gineers kicking their robot to prove its stability. erything from search and rescue to mail delivery. “Clearly these scientists built a cyborg weakling as a ATRIAS was designed in collaboration with the Uni- punching bag so they could take out years of pent-up versity of Michigan and Carnegie Mellon University nerd rage.” in Pittsburgh, with the goal of creating a machine that After the show aired, there was a huge spike in could maneuver like a human without wasting energy. video views on the Dynamic Robotics Laboratory’s “If we want robots to be able to do what we do,” YouTube channel, with one video getting almost says Zaytsev, “they’re going to have to be able to move 140,000 views. the way we move.” “Then again, it did show us abusing a robot,” There are other robots that can walk like people do, Pavel Zaytsev, a mechanical engineer on the team, such as the one created by Boston Dynamics, but they says with a laugh. need much more power to function. “They use maybe 100 times more energy than ATRI- AS or Cassie,” says project leader Jonathan Hurst, associate professor of mechanical engineering at OSU LEFT | Mikhail Jones, Oregon State University and co-founder of Agility Robotics. research engineer and co-founder of Agility Robotics, OSU owns the technological developments produced demonstrates the ATRIAS robot’s ability to react at the Dynamic Robotics Laboratory. The university when kicked in a video that plays on a big screen in also owns part of Hurst’s company, which licenses the the Dynamic Robotics Laboratory. technology and makes improvements, with the goal of eventually selling its own robots. BELOW | Oregon State University mechanical Funding for the research is provided partially by the engineer Pavel Zaytsev explains the innovative spring Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, which is mass model robot, which preserves energy and interested in having robots work with teams of soldiers. allows ‘‘human-like’’ movement. The government maintains the right to use the technol- Photo by ELIZABETH RADCLIFFE Photos by SONIDE BOCAGE ogy without paying royalties, Hurst says. ATRIAS is a spring mass model, meaning that when it Teza Ross, 9, says she loves decorating her new virtual home at the Minecraft: Beaverville Creative walks, the springs in its legs allow the energy expended to Free Build Camp at Oregon State University. reverberate through its body and be recycled, rather than being expelled into the ground. The robot showed “for the first time ever on any ma- chine, real human-like walking and running,” says Hurst. “That’s just never been done before.” Video games teach principles ATRIAS isn’t perfect, however. It’s large, fragile, un- able to turn and has to be constantly moving to maintain its balance. The team used this knowledge to move for- ward, members say. of computer programming “OK, these are the lessons we learned, now let’s build a whole new robot,” says Zaytsev. The new robot, with funding of just under $1 million, By SONIDE BOCAGE “They think they’re playing Minecraft, and is expected to overcome the obstacles that ATRIAS faced. my goal as a counselor is to use it in an educa- Cassie will have small ankles and feet — whereas ATRI- Oregon State University is helping prepare tional way so that they’re getting something out AS had legs similar to stilts — and it will be able to steer the next generation in science, technology, en- of it,” says Jack Standeven, who’s been leading and stand still. gineering and math concepts by reaching out to the Minecraft camp for five years. “We are also designing Cassie to be very, very tough, kids where they are today: in the world of video Boys consistently outnumber girls in signing so it can be running around in the mud and in the rain games. up for the summer science and math camps, outside,” says Hurst. “It should be able to fall without Each summer, OSU offers camps that teach but interest among girls is increasing, thanks to breaking.” elementary, middle and high school students OSU’s recruiting efforts. Camp assistant Court- The nationally renowned robotics program allows programming through video games such as Mi- ney Ahlgren says organizers reach out to girls many OSU students to gain valuable experience working necraft and robotics engineering through Lego in local schools and have downloaded special in the lab. Hurst says “a number of PhDs, PhD projects, Mindstorms kits. Minecraft packages that are attractive to girls, master’s degrees and a whole army of undergraduate re- At the Minecraft: Beaverville Creative Free such as furniture and pets. search projects” result from the team’s work. Build Camp on June 22, Maggie Law and “Boys enjoy building things and mass de- Mitch Bernards, a 19-year-old engineer experimenting Teza Ross, both 9, are building a virtual house struction,” she says. “Girls enjoy building with carbon fiber to protect the electronics in the robot, together. With excitement they can barely con- things and decorating them.” says he loves working in the lab. tain, they show visitors how they plan to deco- OSU also offers STEM clubs for girls during “It’s much more enjoyable than classes,” he says. “It’s rate and add furniture. the school year and works with students at Gar- kind of nice how much freedom I have to work.” “I like how you can build whatever you want field Elementary School in Corvallis. Hurst believes Cassie will have the potential to change to,” Teza says. “The idea is reaching kids at a very young the world in many fields, doing what humans often can’t But there’s one caveat: The campers have to age so they think of themselves as STEM ca- do or simply don’t want to do. He mentions possible use work together to build anything. pable and competent,” says Cathy Law, OSU’s for package delivery, search and rescue, and natural disas- “I like how you get to play with everybody STEM Academy director. ter relief efforts. and it’s about teamwork,” Maggie says. She believes technology will be fully present Hurst says the Dynamic Robotics Laboratory hopes to Camp organizers say they use video games in students’ college careers and everyday lives have Cassie models “walking and running outside” by the such as Minecraft to teach students basic princi- and shape fields from car mechanics to art and end of the year. ples of programming without them even know- music. “It’s really exciting to be in robotics right now,” Zayt- ing it, such as using computer commands and “I think the world is going to be completely sev says. We’re on the precipice of what is going to be the shortcuts. integrated,’’ Law said. next revolution.” “It’s a perspective that only some people can share.” • Reporter Sarah Milshtein “Bringing together different voices, backgrounds and life experiences so we can better understand the world.” • Editor Gina Mizell

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Oregon State LEFT | A blue University’s silk dress from historic apparel 1912 incorpo- collection rates intricate includes a designs with beaded cultural influ- handbag from ences. the late 1920s. RIGHT | A mesh bag from 1925 and a pair of shoes from 1842 make up part of the university’s collection. Back to the future in fashion

By HANIN NAJJAR and AMELIA UNDERHILL Figueroa and other OSU experts say they can people live have influenced fashion trends throughout Chicago, where she roamed the city with a camera and icons are meeting the consumer interest in seeing fashion, Dickson said. Researchers at the university predict how fashion will change by studying the history, Figueroa said. studied what people were wearing to figure out what different ethnicities, ages and body types. are working on finding natural dyes to decrease Dawn Figueroa slips her hands into blue latex evolution of style. For example, with the rising popularity of cars in was going to be cool. “I’m tired of seeing girls that I’m never going to the use of artificial ones that are damaging to the look like,” she said. environment. gloves and opens the doors of the wooden cabinet Marianne Dickson works in the fashion industry as the 1920s, the length of women’s dresses became a One of the courses she teaches at the university is Fashion Trend Analysis, which focuses on forecasting Dickson predicts the industry will continue With a rise in the use of social media, consumers to reveal an array of colorful dresses from the early a designer and teaches at the university. Some of her problem, she said. So hemlines rose to make it easier trends. evolving to relate to everyday people. It’s possible, have a voice more than ever before, she said. The 1900s. classes focus on what could be in style next. for women to get in and out of cars. Celebrities and other influential figures have the she said, that there will be a decrease in makeup and fashion industry will have to address the issues She pulls a lace-trimmed blue silk dress made in “To predict the future,” Dickson says, “we look at Changing attitudes about gender roles during this power to spark a trend, Dickson said. When a celebrity photo retouching on models. that people are raising, including concerns about Portland from the closet, pointing out the intricate history.” decade contributed, as well, Figueroa said. wears a certain product or endorses a brand, there is Another change Dickson wants: “I’d like to see companies’ lack of transparency in how their products beading and explaining how this style might’ve been Figueroa, a museum assistant, researches the Wars and other significant events also affected a rise in the demand for that product. Professional ‘plus-size’ disappear,” she said. “I want that word are made. worn on the Titanic. origins of each piece in the university’s Historic what people wore. During World War II, women gave basketball player Stephen Curry’s new Under Armour gone.” And because of social media, fashion shows reach History surrounds Figueroa at work on the Oregon and Cultural Textile and Apparel Collection. She up their nylon stockings and switched to rayon, she shoes were a perfect example, she said. As technology advances, Dickson said, designers a wider audience than in years past. In an age of State University campus. Closets and drawers line the studies and photographs the clothes and catalogues said, because nylon was needed to make parachutes. “Steph Curry,” she said, “is one the best things that try to keep up. She wonders whether clothing in the instant gratification, Dickson said, the industry must room on the second floor of Milam Hall. Each closet them in an online database, available to students and Today, consumer demands, technology, celebrities ever happened to them.” future will integrate touch screens and headphones. anticipate the next trend faster and try to make those is filled with antique clothing from different countries researchers. and the environment influence fashion. Consumers also drive some changes in fashion, Consumers’ concerns about the environment new items available as soon as consumers want them and time periods that reflect a distinct style. Advances in technology, social attitudes and how Dickson previously worked as a designer in Dickson said. Greater diversity in models and fashion could lead to scientific developments that change — which could be as soon as they hit the runway.

Photos by HANIN NAJJAR AND AMELIA UNDERHILL A showroom mannequin wears an art deco-style dress, with a 1925 blue silk and velvet hat. Dawn Figueroa, a museum assistant who works with Oregon State University’s Historic and Cultural Textile and Apparel Collection, holds a 1912 lace-trimmed blue silk dress. “Diversity means to be critically and actively aware of all the differences that exist between us.” • Resident assistant Aleck Blanger “Diversity is differences that are valuable to me.” • Reporter Toli Tate

Page 16 / June 2016 Page 17 / June 2016

Better lifestyle or bankruptcy? Farms prepare for Oregon’s minimum wage increase

Photo by JULIAN WYATT “Being able to celebrate what’s different and being able to say, ‘This is what we have in common.’” • Reporter Melanie Gonzalez “In journalism, it is essential to telling stories that reflect, educate and inspire the communities we cover.” • Editor Emily E. Smith

Page 18 / June 2016 Page 19 / June 2016

Dresler said, the demand for food will TOP LEFT | Tom Denison, “People can’t afford to live with minimum wage. If we don’t treat our continue to rise. The United Nations owner of Denison Farms, estimates that by 2050, farms will need has run his business for to produce 60 percent more food to feed several decades. His workers as well as we possibly can, we won’t have workers.” the world’s growing population. Corvallis land produces a variety of fruits and Tom Denison, owner of Denison Farms Retired Oregon State University vegetables, including Extension Service economist 20,000 tomato plants. By MAYA FIALLOS for transportation, clothing or their after. During harvest season, Denison minimum wage now, and that won’t Bruce Sorte spends a lot of time and JULIAN WYATT children’s educations. hires about 40 people, some of whom change under the new law. New wages thinking about the future of food. He ABOVE AND LEFT | Seascape “For the work we do, it’s good that work from dawn until dusk. won’t affect farms that hire workers on thinks farmworkers deserve to live strawberries, and all other Gustavo Velasco moved through we get an increase,” Velasco said. “People can’t afford to live with a piece-rate basis. But those workers comfortably, but worries it will spur a produce, are picked by a row of strawberries, crouching and Velasco’s boss, farm owner Tom minimum wage,” Denison said. “If we are younger and less experienced than decrease in jobs. Already, machines are hand at Denison Farms. At quickly plucking several of the ripe Denison, said he pays every employee don’t treat our workers as well as we Velasco. starting to replace workers. Robots can least 80 percent of what is fruit from the bush. He put them into higher than minimum wage — even the possibly can, we won’t have workers.” While Denison supports the new pick lettuce without requiring an hourly grown is sold within a a wheelbarrow and moved on. Around new people. They get raises every year But not all farm workers earn minimum wage law, labor costs are wage. 100-mile radius of the him, other men did the same, wearing more than all of his other expenses Sorte started picking beans at 10 organic farm in Corvallis. hats to shade their faces from the sun. It combined. He could raise his prices — years old and has seen the labor force was a hot June morning, and the air was he hasn’t done so in about six years — change drastically since then. The sweet with the smell of freshly picked Oregon’s minimum wage but he fears that customers might opt for minimum wage has increased before, fruit. Long sections of berries, grapes, imported strawberries from countries and he thinks it’s not a coincidence tomatoes and zucchini stretched across that pay workers less. that, over the years, Willamette Valley In February, Oregon lawmakers approved a historic increase to the ON THE COVER | Timoteo the farm. He’s confident he can adapt, but he farmers moved from growing labor- state’s minimum wage. Pay will rise in three different tiers based on Lopez, a Denison Farms Velasco, 37, has worked at Denison intensive crops to grass seed, which population density, every July until 2022. After that, it will increase knows some farmers can’t. employee, is one of Farms for nine years, traveling back and doesn’t require as many workers to tend along with cost of living. Many farmers tried to stop the 40 seasonal workers forth between Mexico and Corvallis. law from passing. They said it could and harvest. who pick fruit and sell It’s a long trip but worth it. Velasco is in Tier 1: Portland urban growth boundary bankrupt growers with tight profit Eventually, farmers will adapt, even Tier 2: Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Deschutes, Hood the produce at farmers a good place when it comes to pay, he margins or push small farms to sell out if the first bump of 50 cents on July 1 markets. said, but not all farmworkers can say the River, Jackson, Josephine, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, to bigger companies. might hurt a little bit. same. Polk, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington and Yamhill counties “Not everybody makes profit every “People will make those In February, Oregon passed one of Tier 3: Malheur, Lake, Harney, Wheeler, Sherman, Gilliam, year, and it’s a gamble,” said Jennifer adjustments,” Sorte said. “In the short Photos by JULIAN WYATT the country’s highest minimum wage Wallowa, Grant, Jefferson, Baker, Union, Crook, Klamath, Douglas, Dresler, Oregon Farm Bureau director run, the adjustments won’t be as good as laws, which will be phased in over time Coos, Curry, Umatilla and Morrow counties of state public policy. “Farming is a in the long run.” and depend on location. Since then, Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 3 gamble. It’s unpredictable.” But the future also brings farmers have been preparing budgets for Some farmers, like those who sell confidence to farmworkers like Velasco, future seasons. Some farm owners say 2016...... $9.75...... $9.75...... $9.50 wheat or corn for processing, don’t have said Ramón Ramírez, president of they are left to decide whether they will 2017...... $11.25...... $10.25...... $10.00 the freedom to increase their prices at Oregon’s farmworkers union Pineros y have to fire workers, raise prices or cut 2018...... $12.00...... $10.75 ...... $10.50 will and worry their profit might not Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste. back on production. But advocates say 2019...... $12.50...... $11.25...... $11.00 keep pace with labor costs. “Farmworkers are not getting a fair the millions of permanent and seasonal 2020...... $13.25...... $12.00...... $11.50 The Oregon Department of treatment. Period,” Ramírez said. “We farmworkers — often low-income and 2021...... $14.00...... $12.75...... $12.00 Agriculture reports that the state lost have to change the way that we look at without support networks in the U.S. 2022...... $14.75...... $13.50...... $12.50 400 farms and ranches between 2013 farmworkers. They are valuable workers. — will benefit. A large portion of these Source: State of Oregon Compiled by Julian Wyatt and 2014 — a trend experts predict They put food on our tables, and I think workers receive the $9.25 minimum will continue. Oregon now has 34,600, that they should be treated with a lot wage or less, making it difficult to pay mostly small family farms. Meanwhile, more respect than they do now.” “Diversity is differences among people and what makes us all unique.” • Reporter Julian Wyatt “Diversity means different perspectives and unique voices, all valued equally.” • Director Molly Young

Page 20 / June 2016 Page 21 / June 2016 Record-breaking Oregon State women’s team lost star basketball players, but it’s just the beginning

By ALEX DIAZ and MELANIE GONZALEZ

Gabby Hanson knew the season was over as she hugged the departing se- niors in the Oregon State locker room after the team’s loss to undefeated Connecticut. Then she realized her senior year had started. Coming off the program’s first trip to the Final Four, where OSU fell to the No. 1 team 80-51, coach Scott Rueck and the Beavers aim to rebuild after losing five seniors, including star players Jamie Weisner and Ruth Ham- blin. Despite these losses, the Beavers believe they have the talent and leader- ship to continue as one of the nation’s top teams. “We’re hungrier than ever, honest- ly,” senior point guard Sydney Wiese said. “Because there’s so much uncer- tainty, and there’s doubts out there, I’m sure, of what’s gonna become of us after this historic year. I think it’s just been fueling us.” The Beavers broke school records in 2015-16 and finished No. 2 in the nation with a 32-5 record. But a few years ago, they were far from those accomplishments. The team was in ruins when Rueck, an OSU alumnus, took over as head Photo by ALEX DIAZ coach in 2010. Former coach LaVonda Coach Scott Rueck took over in 2010 and las led the Beavers to three NCAA Tournament appearances. Wagner was fired after multiple play- ers and coaches left the team and made Dorm a new option for OSU allegations of player mistreatment. En- 2016-17 Oregon State women’s basketball team ter Rueck, who previously built a Divi- sion III power at George Fox, winning WHO’S GONE PER-GAME AVERAGE AWARDS the national championship in 2009. Jamie Weisner 17.3 points, 5.6 rebounds Pac-12 Player of the Year “I’ve been an Oregon State person Ruth Hamblin 11.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.5 blocks Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year my whole life,” Rueck said. “So to get Deven Hunter 6.2 points, 5.5 rebounds students in substance recovery to work here and coach here is really a Samantha Siegner 2.1 points, 2.2 rebounds dream.” Jen’Von’Ta Hill 1.1 points, 0.6 rebounds Rueck led OSU to the NCAA Tour- By JOVANI CAMARENA ABOVE | Dixon Lodge will soon be the nament the past three seasons, the WHO’S BACK POSITION PER-GAME AVERAGE AWARDS and IZZY ESCOBAR dormitory for Oregon State students in school’s first appearances since 1996. Sydney Wiese senior guard 12.8 points, 5.7 rebounds All-America honorable mention Recovery Living and recovery. Sara Caldwell-Kan, seen here The Beavers won their first regular Gabby Hanson senior guard 7.8 points, 3.5 rebounds Pac-12 Defensive honorable mention Oregon State University will Learning Community at McNary Hall, is on the advisory board season Pac-12 title in school history in Marie Gülich junior center 4.1 points, 3.9 rebounds become the first in the state to offer for the Collegiate Recovery Community 2015. They repeated as Pac-12 cham- Katie McWilliams sophomore guard 3.2 points, 2.0 rebounds program. Taylor Kalmer sophomore guard 2.7 points, 0.6 rebounds housing for students battling drug or pions this year, while Weisner earned Who’s in charge: John the conference’s Player of the Year and Breanna Brown junior forward/center 2.2 points, 1.7 rebounds alcohol addiction. Ruyak, OSU alcohol, drug Photo by IZZY ESCOBAR Kolbie Orum senior forward 2.3 points, 1.3 rebounds The new dorm, which will open this Hamblin was named the Defensive and recovery specialist Player of the Year for the second con- Tarea Green redshirt freshman center fall, is one way OSU is adapting to meet LEFT | Students who stay sober for a Where it is: Dixon Lodge, secutive season. the needs of students recovering from certain amount of time get their names Then they rolled through the NCAA WHO’S NEW POSITION PROSPECTS addiction. Three other major institutions 265 SW 11th St., Corvallis on a tree that tracks recovery birthdays Tournament, with a dramatic 60-57 Mikayla Pivec freshman guard five-star recruit nationwide — Texas Tech University, Phone: 541-737-1184 in McNary Hall. Kat Tudor freshman guard four-star recruit win over top seed Baylor in Dallas, Ohio State University and St. Cloud Email: john.ruyak@ Madison Washington freshman wing four-star recruit Photo by JOVANI CAMARENA sending them to the Final Four. oregonstate.edu Janessa Thropay freshman forward three-star recruit – Compiled by MELANIE GONZALEZ University in Minnesota — provide “It was just a culmination of so recovery housing. many tough lessons, and it was this Oregon State is one of three public Fifteen cups hang empty near a sink at team reaching a level that that’s what universities statewide with substance the center. we had built everything for,” Rueck abuse recovery programs, all added in All-American last season and the pens is when it becomes theirs,” Rueck transition to a faster offensive pace. A Going to school can be stressful, said. “It was the perfect opportunity for school’s record-holder in 3-pointers, and said. go-to scorer also must emerge, as Weis- the last six years. the Recovery Living and Learning said. The new dorm will house 15-20 especially when you’re in recovery. the team. That was our greatest win.” The Collegiate Recovery Hanson, a tough perimeter defender and OSU will also welcome four talented ner averaged 17.3 points per game as a Community, will be another a way to students at first, then closer to 50 once Caldwell-Kan said the typical college OSU fans may recognize the Bea- returning starter, think they are more freshmen in Mikayla Pivec, Kat Tu- senior. Community started at OSU in 2013 help students who are traditionally renovations are finished. The space will experience is portrayed as a time for vers’ defense and outside shooting as than ready to fill the vacant leadership dor, Madison Washington, and Janessa “This team is going to be very dif- to help students with substance abuse underserved. include a kitchen, a specific RA, pool students to start drinking. the root of their success. But to them, roles in their senior seasons. They took Thropay. Rueck said “they better be” ferent than I think what has been seen problems, following the University of “Through a unified community, we table and an entertainment area. “Colleges are pretty recovery-hostile “competitive culture” is the key. Oregon in 2010 and Southern Oregon seek to strengthen students’ sobriety The recovery program is currently environments,” Caldwell-Kan said. While recruiting, Rueck looks for the initiative to spearhead summer ready to contribute at this level, given in the past few years, which is honestly University in 2012. The majority of and support their success as academics, crammed into one room in McNary Hall. But members of the recovery players who can compete at the Pac-12 workouts, even surprising Rueck. all the senior departures. very exciting,” Hanson said. students who participate in the program leaders, and community members,” he Sara Caldwell-Kan, who sits on community help each other, Caldwell- level. But he also looks for people with “Who else is gonna do it?” Wiese The Beavers will need to adjust their The team may look different, but are non-traditional, meaning they don’t said in a news release. the recovery program’s advisory board, Kan said. They study together, hold selfless character who don’t have an at- said. “We’ve had the experiences. We playing style without the defensive OSU’s goals remain the same. With go to college straight after high school. Ruyak found a home for the dorm in says something as simple as the round- movie nights and play video games. It’s titude on the court. know what it takes.” presence of Hamblin, who averaged 10 a high bar hanging over the Beavers’ John Ruyak, OSU’s alcohol, Dixon Lodge, a space used until this year the-clock coffee the program offers is that sort of support that keeps members “We are basically building a family,” That type of player ownership creates rebounds and 3.5 blocks per game last heads, they are eager for what’s next. drug and recovery specialist and the for visiting international scholars. It was important because it fosters community going, and the new dorm means a new Rueck said. a special team, Rueck said. season. Rueck said the Beavers will “It’s a new story,” Wiese said. “So program’s director, said the dorm, called funded by a $300,000 donation, Ruyak and connections among the students. way for those students to connect. Wiese, an honorable mention “To me, that is when the magic hap- change some defensive schemes and we’re here to write it as best as we can.” “Diversity means accepting differences.” • Reporter Sonide Bocage “Diversity means accepting and embracing all cultures and perspectives.” • Reporter Dylan Palmer

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•TOLI TATE A Navajo teen finds her purpose

Story and photo by KYLER KAYKEO When Toli turned 13, she prepared for the annual family trip to visit her grand- parents on the Navajo reservation in northeast Arizona as she had done every fter years of homeschooling alongside her two sisters, Toli summer before, but with a different purpose. She was on her way to perform a Ki- Tate left that sheltered environment and found herself in naalda, a coming-of-age Navajo tradition, where a young woman who first shows a Portland public school, surrounded by white friends and signs of growing up takes part in a five-day process of performing adult duties. white influences. “We woke at sunrise and ran miles through the hot and rocky terrain, while later Even as a fourth-grader, Toli sensed a disconnection helping to take care of our parents and grandparents, and finally preparing the food with her Native American ties. But at the age of 13, after I never really liked — corn cake,” Toli said. “And at the end of the day we ran A celebrating a Navajo tradition known as a Kinaalda and back and forth again along that same path for miles on end.” learning of her family’s fears of losing their land, Toli saw At the end of her experience, Toli reflected on how she felt. She found herself a need for change. Now Toli wants to create awareness of and her Navajo culture, realizing the importance of the Kinaalda. Upon returning Native American issues by writing about her people and fighting for the reserva- to Oregon, Toli wanted to express how going through the ceremony was for her. tions that families like hers call home. “I wanted to tell my friends what it was like, but I didn’t because none of them “I always had white friends, but it wasn’t till I actually went to school and realized that almost 100 percent of the people at Beverly Cleary were white,” Toli had any knowledge on any of the Navajo culture,” Toli said. said of her changing sensibilities at her elementary school. She was aware of her During a family dinner, Toli overheard her parents and grandparents discussing heritage as the middle of three girls with a Navajo father and Caucasian mother that developers were interested in buying her grandparents’ property, while the and was excited to show off her government was in the process of restricting grazing rights on her great-grand- uniqueness to her friends. mother’s land. “I always thought it was cool to say Her peers’ lack of knowledge and that I could sing in Navajo,” Toli said. Toli’s sense of neglect toward Native Although she played sports and American history and culture grew shared her sisters’ love of art, Toli into the main fuel for her to seek also discovered a passion for writing. change. She seized the opportunity to She wrote in journals about how her work with Grant Magazine as a way life was going and what was bother- of finding her own voice in her writ- ing her. Eventually she developed a ing. And she has broadened her scope. more serious style of writing, and as a She aims to bring the same prom- freshman became a member of Grant inence to Navajo life as that of Af- High School’s magazine class. rican American history and culture. “Being a part of Grant’s magazine Toli wants to use her writing to bring was an amazing experience,” she greater awareness of the challenges said. As one of two freshmen in the facing Native people. She also pro- class, she wrote news and features poses creating a student organization on a variety of subjects. to help in that effort. Aside from polishing her writing, But to do all of this, she must rely Toli played soccer and basketball on her competitive nature. on Grant’s junior varsity team. In ad- “My mother had always said, ‘do- dition, Toli enjoyed going on nature ing as good as you can’ was all that hikes and runs with her dog. matters,” Toli said, “while I argued to • be the best and nothing but the best.”

•ALEX DIAZ A connection between basketball and family

Story and photo by MELANIE GONZALEZ Big Al’s, a bowling alley in Beaverton. Alex said that he views Roy as a role mod- el. “There’s no one like him,” he said. lex Diaz remembers trips to the Moda Center to watch the Alex has played basketball since the second grade, and his passion has never fal- Trail Blazers, slamming Thundersticks together and eating tered. He played center before realizing his full potential as a guard. Leland Johnson, a nachos. personal coach he knew, helped improve his dribbling and shooting so he could make Who was always by his side? His mother, Alma. There’s the transition. no one else more important to him. Alex made the junior varsity team “She A believes in at Parkrose High School. Though me,” Alex Alma wasn’t able to make most said. “The games because of work, Alex said least I owe her is going to college.” he always played best when she Alex said his mom taught him an cheered from the stands. One time, immense respect for women. She he scored 30 points in her presence. taught him to be kind. Most impor- But near the end of his freshman tantly, she taught him perseverance. year, Alex sustained a knee injury She was a 16-year-old mother who that would follow him into the next went on to graduate from high season. school and earn a college degree in Alex doesn’t know whether that nursing. injury will keep him from playing Alex loves a photo of his mom at this year. He hopes he’ll be able to her high school graduation, dressed in her cap and gown and holding pursue his passion, earn a college him at the age of 2 in her arms. scholarship and play for the Univer- “She didn’t give up on me or her sity of Oregon. education,” he said. Alex wants to be successful and Alex and Alma bonded through independent. He hopes that down the basketball. She helped introduce him road he can be there for his children, to former Trail Blazers Greg Oden much like how his mom was always Photo illustration by TOLI TATE, JULIAN WYATT AND SHAWN BARKDULL and Brandon Roy by taking him to there for him. “Diversity is essential for unlocking everyone’s true potential.” • Resident assistant and program alum Lorena Colcer “Diversity means acceptance and respect for all.” • Editor Tony Hernandez

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•KYLEAH PUYEAR •DYLAN PALMER Writing leads the way to a successful future Activism leads student to racial acceptance

Story and photo by ANNIE VONG Her love for writing and poetry unfolded in her language arts class taught by Story and photo by ALLISON ECHEVERRIA were usually full of testosterone. The events helped the team unify before games. Charles Sanderson. Not only did she have the opportunity to write poetry, but his During that racially insensitive dinner in November, one of his teammates t 9 years old, Kyleah Puyear never thought she’d become class gave her the chance to interact with her peers and help teach them about ylan Palmer, a newly turned varsity player for Grant High began filming a video on Snapchat. The smartphone app had a new feature that the matriarch of the family. writing. School’s soccer team, found it easy to fall into his team’s plays recorded video in reverse. routine and enjoyed the camaraderie until he heard the The students spoke “reggin,” which caused the phone to spit out the n-word Growing up with seven siblings, from a mixture of “He was the first person I knew that was passionate about their job, and I want- “n-word” during a dinner Nov. 2, 2015. on subsequent replays. parents, she struggled to maintain a normal childhood. As ed to be like that,” Kyleah said. “He pushed me to do things I haven’t done before That term bothered the junior. He was raised by his Dylan’s teammates reacted with laughter. They repeated the term, as if it were her parents moved in and out due to a problematic mar- and encouraged me to pursue writing and poetry.” mother, who is black and Native American, and a white a joke. He didn’t see it that way. riage, she had more pressure than the average kid, having Kyleah continued to help students with their writing at a SLAM! program. Even- to change D father. The incident opened Dylan’s eyes to the thoughtlessness of his peers. He A tually, her writing and leadership her sister’s His discomfort grew as teammates repeated the word. discussed the situation with his principal, vice principal, athletic department skills led her to join a yearbook class. They joked about it without a care. Dylan, 17, left early director and soccer coach. It led to a discussion with the team about racial issues. diaper and She entered as a sophomore and cook for the family. Writing was one with the word ringing in his ears. He felt he had no choice. “Change isn’t going to happen all of a sudden,” he said, “but people were stayed through the rest of her high That encounter drove him to speak out about the issue and led to talking.” of the few opportunities for her to school years, eventually becoming escape the stressful nights. conversations with students and teachers. Despite little visible change from his teammates, he wasn’t discouraged. editor-in-chief. Having difficult re- “Writing takes so much of my Dylan’s confusion about his He wanted schoolwide discussions sponsibilities at a young age matured focus, it distracts me,” Kyleah said. racial identity started at a young age. on race to take place. Sophomore Kyleah. Being used to plenty of tasks Her journals supported her as she Growing up in Portland, a city with classmate Toli Tate said Dylan’s dealt with her responsibilities. She at home, it made it easier for her to a small minority population, was efforts fostered classroom discussions noted everything that annoyed her in manage her peers. strange for him because he has darker during two 1½-hour sessions one of her journals, which she called Kyleah continued to work with the skin, he said. between teachers and their students. her “ranting journal.” Another, she yearbook class until her recent grad- After attending Alameda That led to the creation of the described with a smile, has an ele- uation from St. Helens High School. Elementary School, he ventured to Student Equity Team, a group of phant on the cover and is saved for Now, she will be attending Portland Beaumont Middle School expecting diverse individuals who led race- poems she plans to work on. Community College and discovering more diversity. He hoped to find social related discussions. Next year, Grant Too shy to join band or the track new careers. The troubles from her circles where he could fit in. Instead, High School plans to increase the team, Kyleah stuck with what she childhood made Kyleah determined he was greeted with racial cliques number of discussions to four times a knew best and found her passion to have a successful future, one with where black students stuck together year, he said. through watching slam poetry with a career relating to her passion for and white students did the same. Dylan has found he enjoys her best friend, Emily. writing and a flourishing family. He made friends in both circles, advocating for diversity. He’s no “It was called ‘That Girl,’” Kyleah “I want a close-knit family where but it made him uncomfortable, longer confused about race. said. “It was so intense and emotion- we can talk to each other about because he didn’t fully fit into either “I discovered I want to make al. We didn’t know that poetry was anything and it’s comfortable and group. It felt like he had “one foot in a difference in the world,” he said. this intense.” happy,” Kyleah said. each group,” he said. “I thought I was too small to make Eventually, he found his footing a change, as one person. I learned in high school sports, which led that anyone can spark change. I’m him to the soccer team’s dinner. The fighting for the things I believe in.” gatherings, held at various homes,

•SARAH MILSHTEIN Former victim finds her voice •ALLISON ECHEVERRIA Channeling past helps student move forward Story and photo by ISABEL ANGELES LIM stamped spiral-bound notebook when she was 7 after her parents divorced. Poetry filled those pages. arah Milshtein remembers the feeling of ice-cold putty Whether or not the poems made sense didn’t matter to her as long as the words Story and photo by DYLAN PALMER “It was difficult, but I’m alive,” she said. inside her ear when she tried on her first hearing aid. rhymed. When she brought a poem to her dad to read one day, he was amazed by Her single father barely made enough to support them. They moved around a lot When she wore them to class for the first time, the mar- t 10 years old, Allison Echeverria poked her mother, who in Washington and Yamhill counties as he looked for more affordable homes. her rhythm. She and her dad would discuss and debate current events. Sometimes bled blue, white and purple aids drew a crowd of fellow wouldn’t wake up at 7 one morning in 2009. Moving around meant Allison didn’t have many friends. She became second-graders. Fascinated, they asked how the devices she would make up a news story, and her dad would guess whether it was true. “Mom! Mom! Mom!” she said. introverted and reserved. worked and even begged to try them on themselves. During freshman year, her school encouraged students to join a club. Speech But her mother continued to sleep with her neck Because of the solitude, she said, “It kind of shaped a lot of who I was as a S When fourth grade came around, that changed. Her and debate seemed like the best option. When her first competition for the debate crooked, snoring louder than Allison had ever heard. She (younger) person.” peers started team came around, she again found noticed her mother’s flush face and messy hair and clothes. Soon after that morning in 2009, Allison’s mother began distancing herself from to exclude an opportunity to argue for social A Allison was terrified. Feeling completely helpless, she her daughter. About a month later, she disappeared. The two never saw each other and tease her. A friend of her dad’s justice. She earned second place returned to again, Allison said. told her she should hide her hearing with her speech about being hear- her room and Allison initially tried to forget aids. waited. about what happened with her mother. When a teacher assigned her to ing-impaired. Ten hours later, her mother woke As she grew older, she became upset write about a struggle in her life, she She can still remember the cream- up. Allison said her mother was about her mother’s abandonment. took it as an opportunity to stand up and-crimson dress she wore for her recovering from a night of heavy drug But rather than letting her for herself. uncle’s wedding and the realization use. emotions consume her, Allison She remembers the look of awe on that she didn’t feel comfortable She had a rough relationship with channeled the energy into her her classmates’ faces as she recited wearing it. She dated boys in middle her mother, who she said was a drug activities. She took up sports, clubs her narrative. It altered her relation- school to make everyone think she addict. People who meet Allison today and writing to help redirect her ships with her classmates for the may not guess she had a difficult emotions. was straight. better. upbringing. The 17-year-old junior at “I just took the negative and put it Today, she has realized how Westview High School’s Queer Westview High School has channeled into a positive outlet,” she said. writing, speaking and advocacy can Straight Alliance club, where she her emotions to give her the energy to Now living in Hillsboro, be used for self-expression. She uses hopes to be a leader next year, is a push through. Allison has reinvented herself after words to help others understand safe space for her. Sarah aims to be Allison’s parents divorced when transferring from Southridge High what it’s like to be Jewish, hear- a leader that acknowledges all the she was an infant. Her father received School. She created the nickname ing-impaired and also a lesbian. little struggles and realities members full custody, and the two lived in Alaska for herself and grew out of her “If we can educate bullies through of the LGBT community face on a McMinnville. She was allowed to visit timid personality. writing,” she said, “we can get some her mother every other weekend. Allison said it can often feel like, understanding and some ignorant daily basis, at home and at school. It was tough being a girl raised by “Your life is the most difficult thing, questions answered.” “If you’re truly passionate, pour a man, she said. Her dad couldn’t help but you can always overcome it in the Sarah wrote her first poem at a your heart out,” she said, “but don’t much, because he couldn’t understand end because it doesn’t stay terrible young age. Her mom gave her a be mad when they don’t get it.” female emotions and other issues. forever.” “Seeing the inherently unique qualities that each of us possess no matter the background we come from.” • Photo editor Ben Brink “We’re different, but in some ways at heart we’re still similar.” • Reporter Izzy Escobar

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•SONIDE BOCAGE •HANIN NAJJAR Keeping a cultural identity in America A voice for the voiceless

Story and photo by AMELIA UNDERHILL Story and photo by ELIZABETH RADCLIFFE surprised to see an ordinary man who lived an ordinary life. Sonide and her family She says that she’s living between the two cultures. moved into her father’s apartment and began to get acquainted with their new home. “Being a Muslim in America, I feel like my own story is misrepresented,” she anin Najjar left her home country of Saudi Arabia when tepping off the airplane in Oregon, Sonide Bocage When she was in second grade and still getting used to being in America, said. “I’m in a bubble. I’m not one or the other. I’m both, and I’m trying to find she was only a year old. Although she has found a new immediately felt lost. Sonide overheard two kids on the playground at school one day. One of the balance and accept them both as who I am.” home here in the United States, she hasn’t forgotten about The 6-year-old Haitian was bombarded by the bright, children jokingly called the other a pig, and Sonide was shocked. When she visits Saudi Arabia, she feels like she doesn’t quite fit in because those she left behind in the Middle East. colorful Christmas lights and bustling crowds of people “Where I’m from, you can’t call people that,” she says. she wasn’t raised there. She doesn’t know what’s popular or what the people are She wants to scream for those who can only whisper, around her, all speaking an unfamiliar language. She She felt that she had to stand up for the child, so she walked over and said to wearing or eating. She feels disconnected from the culture. to speak out against the media’s marginalizing of Muslims followed her family through the airport in a daze; she the other, “Hey, you can’t say that!” In the U.S., she feels set apart as well because she had a different upbringing and to deliver had never seen so many white people in her life. As her “I was a sassy kid,” she adds with a laugh. H and comes from a different background S to the public all family began the trek up the escalator — yet another new When both children were confused at her outburst, she realized that the word than her peers. of the hidden experience — Sonide and her teenage sister both cried, was not as derogatory in America as it was in her homeland. Hanin said that when most stories that go undetected. overwhelmed by the unfamiliarity of the scene, she says. Like most teens in America, Sonide struggles to figure herself out in the Americans hear the word “Muslim,” Hanin said her passion came to Now 16 and an incoming junior at Parkrose High School, Sonide has had to context of the world as she decides on colleges and careers. they think of the Sept. 11 attacks and light when she found her own voice. the Islamic State group. adjust to new schools, a new country and a new language. Amid the struggles of “Most high school students want to succeed, and just like them, I want to “I used to be a really shy girl,” she “All Muslims aren’t like that,” she fitting into a new culture, she constantly strives to find her place. succeed,” she says. said. “Even if my mom asked me to said. “And when people have never Although she loves Oregon, she still identifies with her native home, Port-au- Though Sonide didn’t know a word of English when she arrived in America, it order pizza over the phone, I couldn’t Prince. is now her favorite subject in school. do it.” met a Muslim before, they just think of “Something about me,” she says, “is Haiti.” “I can write it better than I can say it,” she says. However, that changed shortly those things.” Sonide remembers her tropical hometown as a sunny and dry place that sees In fact, people are often surprised to learn that Sonide can speak three languages: after Hanin joined her community’s Hanin said her vision of Muslim rain only about once a month. English, Creole and French. She is exploring journalism, book writing and pediatrics speech club, Future Stars. stereotypes disappearing from the “When it would rain, everyone as career options. “Speech club gave me a voice,” she media came when she asked herself, would be happy, and ever since then, I Sonide writes commentary for said. “I feel like speaking is my gift, “What am I going to do as a journalist? love the rain,” she says. her school newspaper, covering and I want to spread it to other people. What is my mission going to be?” In Port-au-Prince, Sonide lived teen depression and global events. In some countries people are put in jail She wants her work as a writer to with her mother in the big city, right Primarily, though, she writes profiles if they speak out, and I want to be those be something personal that hits close to next door to her godmother. on students in her school who are people’s voice.” home. “She lived in a big house; it was from different countries. She wants Hanin, a senior at the International “There are so many tall and had lots of rooms,” she says. to ensure that they are heard by their School of Beaverton, is studying misinterpretations of Muslims in Without her father present peers, and she uses her writing to help journalism and enjoys writing in her Hollywood and in the media,” she said, in her life, Sonide went back and them express themselves. free time. “and I want to change that.” forth between her mother’s and “I like to be other people’s godmother’s homes. voices,” she says. In 2006, Sonide moved to rainy Though she’s been in America for Oregon with her mother and older 10 years, her childhood still shapes sister in order to be with her father, her goals and dreams. •KYLER KAYKEO whom she had not yet met. “I think growing up in Haiti “I pictured a castle. My dad would makes me different,” she says. “I feel be the king, my mom would be the like I need to do so much more.” queen, and I would be a princess,” she Sonide is constantly moving Coping with reality in virtual reality says. forward and doing what she can to Life in America wasn’t exactly the find her purpose in society. Story and photo by TOLI TATE Like Kyler, his sister suffered without having a father or authority figure that fairytale she had pictured, however. “I’d say I’m still learning,” she she would listen to. The “dynamic duo” had different ways to cope with the loss of When she met her father, she was says. yler Kaykeo was in fifth grade when he returned home their father. His sister used drugs. Kyler played video games non-stop. from school to find a note scribbled on scratch paper in his He liked them because they were something he was good at. He didn’t have older sister’s handwriting. The note was short and simple, any family support to motivate him to pursue anything else. •ISABEL ANGELES LIM telling Kyler and his mother that she had run away and “It was a way to get out of my reality and the world that I was in,” Kyler said. that she didn’t want them to look for her. “I could block everything out that was going on.” Kyler’s sister was the second family member to leave In his sophomore year, he decided to change his ways. Kyler focused more on K his life at the time. Four years before, their father had been eating healthy and exercising. From struggle to success as a writer convicted of first-degree felony aggravated robbery and The newfound motivation helped Kyler create a stronger relationship with sentenced to 10 years in a Utah prison. Than and leave his comfort zone to make friends. The loneliness Kyler once dealt His father’s absence forced Kyler to learn to take care of himself while his with was gone — things were looking up. Story and photo by SARAH MILSHTEIN start writing in the first place. mom worked several jobs to support two children. And when his sister left, Kyler Then, in August 2015, Kaykeo was released from jail. Than, Kyler and She never showed her writing to anybody. had to find a way to cope with the losses and loneliness. He found his sense of Kyler’s grandmother drove to Salt Lake City to pick his father up. It was the first sabel Angeles Lim spent hours in elementary school each “I was constantly comparing myself to others, which is probably why I push myself security in video games. time Kyler had seen his father in 10 years. day writing fiction, even skipping meals to write. in school,” she said. “I wrote fiction to escape reality.” “When I wasn’t drowned in schoolwork, I played video games,” Kyler said. At first, Kyler was excited to see Kaykeo. But he soon realized that the man That all changed the winter of fourth grade. Isabel, sitting But after the encounter in the elementary school cafeteria, she felt her writing “It was an outlet that I could go to.” he referred to as “dad” didn’t know him at all. at a lunch table, overheard a friend mutter under her breath, wasn’t good enough. Kyler was born Aug. 2, 1999, to Linda Than and Anousak Kaykeo. The father- “I can never be a son to a man that was never a dad to me,” Kyler says. “Why is she so weird?” That began to change for Isabel during her freshman year at Parkrose High School. son relationship hadn’t formed by the time of Kaykeo’s arrest in 2005. Kyler saw him sporadically The comment, she said, stung enough to make her lose A teacher encouraged her to take Ad- “I didn’t have much memory of throughout the year. On one of his I her passion for vanced Placement English Language (him) because I was 6,’’ Kyler said. visits, his sister contacted his father, reading and and Composition as a sophomore. ‘‘Maybe the fondest memory I have saying that she wanted to come home. writing. She worked for about six weeks of him is when he drove me around at When his sister returned, Kyler Today, she is trying to regain her mo- on an essay about the lack of foreign night because that was the only way I learned that she had developed an tivation for writing — a difficult task language education in America. The could fall asleep.” addiction to heroin. after years of avoiding it. As a child, Kyler didn’t participate class project intended to showcase each Years before, Kyler would have “I wasn’t going to let what happened in extracurricular activities. Instead, writer’s best work. resorted to playing video games as an to me keep me from doing something he stayed at home with his sister, who escape. Instead, Kyler continued to “My teacher pulled me aside after the that’s good for me,” she said. is five years older. They built a strong focus on eating well and running track. As a child, Isabel spent her free time project and said I wasn’t giving myself bond, and Kyler described them as “the As he enters 12th grade at Fort trying to describe her surroundings. enough credit for the writing I was dynamic duo.” Vancouver High School, Kyler is She remembered trying to describe in doing,” Isabel said. Although his mom was often away planning for the future. Next year he words the park across the street from That teacher and others have inspired at work, Kyler had support from his will be in Running Start, a program that her elementary school. Often she would her to take more challenging courses to sister. But he lost that support when she will allow him to take college classes. describe how the light would come help guide her back on the writing path. ran away in 2009. Kyler also wants to try out for the high through the branches. Other times she “I felt like I was being pressured into “I was angry at her because she school football and basketball teams. would write Harry Potter fan fiction. writing,” Isabel said, “but the truth is just got up and left without telling us,” Kyler has things to work on with She said writing helped calm her now I am getting praised for it, and Kyler said. “Then I felt abandoned his family, but he has found new ways struggles with body image in elemen- that’s what is making me get back into because she was the only person that to cope with problems he faces along tary school, part of what made Isabel writing.” was there for me.” the way. “Diversity is not an ethnicity. It is recognizing that each person brings a unique value to the world.” • Reporter Hanin Najjar “Diversity is super rad.” • Editor Molly Harbarger

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•JOVANI CAMARENA •AMELIA UNDERHILL Finding a ‘pawsitive’ way to cope A goal is worth a thousand words

Story and photo by IZZY ESCOBAR and self-worth when he sees his dog happy. “He helps me deal with any change,” Story and photo by BY HANIN NAJJAR mates. Jovani said. Over time, the Silverton Foxes became more than a team, Amy said. Her team- eading, writing and homework are a fact of life for most When Jovani woke up on Aug. 18, 2014, he didn’t plan on bringing home a dog. eneath dark clouds, Amelia Underhill ran down the soccer mates became more like sisters. high schoolers. For Jovani Camarena, it was a way to cope He didn’t even know he would visit an animal shelter. field through heavy rain and harsh wind trying to score. In “We started having team dinners and homework parties,” Amy said. “We practi- with moving seven times before he was 14. spite of the bitter conditions of the pitch, Amelia — Amy “It was a really busy day,’’ Jovani said. “It was a week before school started. I cally live at each other’s houses during the summertime.” “I moved when I was in elementary school because of to her friends — loved it, she said. Similar to how soccer connects her teammates, it also connects Amy’s family. It had a doctor’s appointment that financial To her, soccer means more than kicking a ball. It rep- provides Amy a chance to bond with one of her three brothers, 11-year-old Collin, troubles,” day at 2 p.m.” resents lifelong friendships and dreams for the future. who also plays. Amy recalled with a smile a recent family trip to Genoa, where R he said. Jovani told the doctor about B Fifteen-year-old Amy, a sophomore at Silverton High she and Collin played soccer under the blazing sun of the Italian spring in their When his loneliness. He also men- School, grandmother’s backyard. Jovani’s tioned that he wanted a dog. Pets was born In ninth grade, the stress and mother couldn’t make rent, it was weren’t allowed in his apartment in Genoa, Italy. She moved to anxiety of high school began to time to find another place to stay. building, so the doctor wrote him Portland at 6 years old. When she settle in. Soccer became a safe Sometimes Jovani, now 16, and a note. was 8, she moved to Silverton. haven where she could release all his mother would find themselves Soon afterward, Jovani and his The move wasn’t easy, Amy said. her tensions. Amy said that when homeless. Amy found it difficult to start she walks onto the soccer field, all mom drove to the nearest animal Jovani made friends every time at a new school and make new her anxiety melts away. Nothing he moved to a new place. When shelter, more than an hour’s drive friends. She had played soccer in matters on the field. he had to change schools, he had from their house. After a short Portland, and she joined a Sil- “It’s just me, the ball and the to leave them behind and start search, they found the young verton team where she met her goal,” Amy said. fresh. terrier. first friends. Her love for soccer Amy dreams of getting into Because of the family’s tough Since then, the rat terrier mix multiplied. college with her passion for soccer. finances, it was his mother’s has been a member of the family. Joining the soccer team made There, she plans to study journal- boyfriend who filled out the After high school, Jovani plans Silverton her “home,” Amy said, ism. Her love for journalism comes paperwork and put up the $120 to to attend a four-year university. “not just a place to live.” from wanting to tell stories about adopt Jovani’s best friend: Coco, a Because of his strong connec- Six years later, Amy still plays people whose stories are unheard 3-year-old rat terrier mix. with all the same members from and from wanting to learn about tion to animals, Jovani plans to “I was depressed, and it was her original team. Now they play different cultures and perspectives. like Coco was a cure,” Jovani become a veterinarian. for their high school team, the Her passion for soccer and said. “I always had a connection Silverton Foxes. journalism are linked, Amy said. The Reynolds High School to them that I didn’t have with Trust is vital to the success and Whether with a soccer ball or a senior feels a sense of purpose humans,” Jovani said. victory of a team, Amy said, and pen, both require creativity. Both she learned to rely on her team- are part of her identity.

•IZZY ESCOBAR •ANNIE VONG Conquering loneliness with the power of the pen Shared rivalry pushes sister to pursue passion

Story and photo by JOVANI CAMARENA However, Izzy said: “It bothers me when people want to know about my family Story and photo by KYLEAH PUYEAR life. Art is a big part of Annie’s family, ranging from her mother’s nail art to her and they refer to (my godparents) as my foster parents.” brother’s realistic drawings. With the artistic ability that runs in the family, Annie lizabeth Escobar was 15 when her mother told her she was Izzy considers her adoptive parents and siblings her true family. iblings can be more than a brother or sister. They can be a was surrounded by art at a young age. At home, Annie watched in awe as her an accident. Izzy finds happiness in her love of Korean pop music — K-pop — and mentor, an inspiration, a friend. brother drew, thinking it was something she wanted to do. Although her mother said it was a joke, it made television shows such as “Orange is the New Black,” “Pretty Little Liars” and For siblings Annie and Richard Vong, their sister-brother “I would watch him draw these amazing pieces, and I wanted to be able to do Elizabeth — who goes by Izzy — feel as if she wasn’t “Vampire Diaries.” connection goes beyond causing trouble and annoying that,” Annie said. wanted. It certainly never made her laugh. But it’s her involvement in the student newspaper, The Bronco Blaze, that their mom, Rose. Through his support and inspiration, Her interest grew in middle school, when she started painting. She soon Her mother got pregnant at 15. That’s how old Izzy helps most. Richard has become Annie’s role model and the reason she discovered that it was something she loved. E turned in March. “Journalism has helped me through some tough times,” she said. S pushes past her challenges. With Richard’s encouragement, Annie eventually pursued a path toward art and Shortly She joined the newspaper “I look up to him, but he doesn’t know that,” Annie said. other interests she had, such as music. She started taking music lessons, and now after her in her freshman year at Parkrose “He’s a father, he’s a friend, he’s my brother.” plays the piano, flute, oboe and ukelele and is learning the guitalele, which is the second birthday, Izzy started living High School. The Vong siblings moved around Portland a lot as they grew up. Being five combination of a guitar and ukulele. The passion Annie has to pursue these things with her godparents. At first, her At first, she just took years apart in age, they fought and can be credited to the push she birth mother was around often. She photos. Then she wrote about bickered as typical siblings do. received from her older brother. would visit every few days. the nutritional value and But when their parents divorced “He always told me, ‘If you want Days turned into months. quality of school lunches, and and their father left, Annie and her to do it, you can do it,’” Annie said. Personal meetings turned into text it empowered her to share her older brother turned to each other When Annie was 14, Richard messages. encouraged her to join the rugby opinion. Since then, she has for support. Without a father figure, During this time, Izzy was Richard stepped in to teach Annie team, something far outside her written many other stories. adopted by her godparents. They about life and to push her to her full comfort zone. But by the end of the Her personal challenges were good friends of her mother’s potential. season Annie knew he was right. have empowered her to think when she was pregnant. Richard is the silly one, the one “I was happy that I joined rugby As time progressed, she freely without people setting her who always wants people to laugh because I got to meet new people, distanced herself from her daughter. back. and smile, while Annie is serious and I know I wouldn’t have joined Izzy didn’t feel comfortable The newspaper gave Izzy and thoughtful. As her role model, without Richard’s push,” Annie with the person her mother was the opportunity to show off that he taught and helped Annie with said. becoming, and Izzy said her independence by sharing her things a father would, like how The learning and encouraging mother’s behavior affected her in opinion with an audience. to not fight with mom and how to between Annie and Richard is many ways. Izzy said it led her That independence also solve problems. a two-way street. Annie, the to have low self-esteem and self- helped her to make important “He’s always the one to help responsible one, nurtures Richard’s worth. life decisions. Izzy wants to me and my mom connect,” said self-confidence. Together, they She is close with her adoptive study journalism in college. Annie, a sophomore at Parkrose make an unbreakable team that parents and siblings. But she also She’ll be the first in her family High School. “When we run into continue to challenge each other to says there’s a void in her heart — to pursue higher education. problems, he helps me sort them strive for more. she still feels a connection to her Living away from her out and pushes me to fix it.” “It’s like having your best friend biological siblings. birth mother has left a scar. But Beyond that, he taught her what as a brother,” Annie said. She talks about it openly. journalism helped her heal. passion can bring to a person’s “Diversity is a garden of flowers that grow with each other and bloom as one.” • Reporter Maya Fiallos “Diversity is like a symphony. The music wouldn’t sound as sweet without all the instruments.” • Editor Samantha Bakall

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•ELIZABETH RADCLIFFE •JULIAN WYATT Opening minds through fictional stories Simple things transformed by artist’s eye

Story and photo by SONIDE BOCAGE as she nervously bursts into laughter. Story and photo by MAYA FIALLOS Julian’s house is full of family portraits his dad drew. Later, his own creations As she talks, she looks up at the ceiling and smiles as she remembers her first were added to the wall. arry Potter taught Elizabeth Radcliffe to always be there day of school. All that the students at North Marion Middle School knew about very day after school and on the weekends, Julian Wyatt He enjoys realistic drawings like portraits because the process is long and for people. her was that she liked Harry Potter and that her last name was the same as the is outside, shooting hoops in his driveway. He doesn’t tough. He starts with rough, undefined lines. Then he spends hours defining and The teen wizard and his band of loyal friends enthralled actor who plays Potter in the movies. play basketball competitively but uses the sport to relieve shading, playing with light and dark to give a picture depth and proportion. Elizabeth so much that she read the entire series in a “For a whole year, students thought that I was lying about my last name,” she says. stress. “As I’m adding each detail it never seems tedious because I thoroughly look month when she was in fifth grade. Through books like Elizabeth also likes author John Green because his books are mostly based on Each time he releases the ball from his hands, he forward to getting to the point of completion,” Julian said. these, Elizabeth learned how people can overcome phys- teens and how they don’t get taken seriously by adults. One of her favorites is watches its Sketching is easy for Julian. ical and emotional challenges with the support of others “Paper Towns,” about a boy who romanticizes a girl as being more than human. E arc through H He can always get his hands on and how to stay open-minded about others’ differences. “The whole book is about how everybody is as complex as you are and no- the air. pen and paper. But he embraces This made Elizabeth want to help writers open readers’ body’s life is easy,” she says. “It’s minds — as a book editor. She speaks passionately as she explains how she wants writers to be heard and really satisfying to see a ball go art that can be done inside the She discovered her love for books at age 10 when her mother started home- understood. She would like to edit fiction stories that have an impact on people’s through a hoop for me,” Julian said. digital world. He spends as much schooling her because her mom was unhappy with the Milwaukie schools. She lives and help them think more Julian is more artistic than time behind the computer, using turned to books as an escape. deeply. athletic. He finds peace in everything graphic design programs for Elizabeth says that when she reads, “Reading books helps you that is pleasing to the eye. school projects or for fun. she feels like the world is silent, understand the world around you He spent his childhood coloring He is an illustrator and with the only sound being the voice in a more complex way,” says the and painting, which eventually designer for Grant Magazine at inside her head. It’s like time itself 17-year-old, who will be a senior morphed into sketching and graphic Grant High School in Portland. has frozen, and the book becomes next fall at North Marion High design. His passion lies in creating There, he trains his eye on other a magical portal transporting her to School. a beautiful image, in the pride that people’s work. whole new world of intelligence and Elizabeth believes that her pur- comes with the finished product. In his off time, he focuses on understanding. pose in life is to help people under- He grew up in an artistic family. the eye itself. “I like being able to immerse my- stand other people’s perspectives. His grandmother often painted the “I just find the human eye surroundings of her Grants Pass self in different worlds,” she says. She knows it will be difficult to find intriguing and beautiful,” Julian Elizabeth says it’s a shame people home. She lived on a serene 6½ a job in the book editing world. If said. don’t read more. that doesn’t work out, Elizabeth acres. It’s more than just creating “There’s more to be learned and hopes to become a journalist or an As Julian and his sister sat understood in books than movies or English teacher, professions that on the porch, working on their an eye for him. It’s drawing TV,” she says. “I feel like you get also help spread understanding in own watercolors, the tall trees and something aesthetically pleasing more into the character’s head and the world. colorful wildflowers showed up on and through that showing what is author’s head and understand where Elizabeth doesn’t know what their grandma’s canvas. Tessa, the inside a person. they’re coming from.” the next chapter of her life will family collie, would lay a few inches Those small details often Elizabeth moved to Hubbard and bring, but of one thing she is sure: away, peacefully slumbering. reveal the bigger picture. went back to public schools in sev- She wants to help others discover enth grade. themselves through books, just like “I was socially awkward,” she says she did. •MELANIE GONZALEZ •MAYA FIALLOS A curious mind with astronomical dreams

Changing countries brings a new sense of independence Story and photo by ALEX DIAZ Then Melanie found herself in a new world, when she moved to Portland to become closer with her stepfather’s family. 12-year old Melanie Gonzalez stayed up all night to Reynolds High School became Melanie’s home away from home. At first, she Story and photo by JULIAN WYATT Life in the U.S. gives her new independence and a sense of safety. analyze “Across the Universe,” unlocking her true passion was very shy and reluctant to meet new people, but the classes she took helped her “I was happy because I knew that I’d have such a better life here,” Maya said. for space travel. bond with some of the students. aya Fiallos sat up in her bed with a sudden feeling of Her mother first considered moving to the U.S. for Maya’s seventh-grade year The sky’s the limit for most but not for Melanie. It wasn’t until she took a yearbook class that she blossomed. She met shock. Outside her window she watched as the sun set and but didn’t officially decide to make the move until last November, during Ma- Someday, she hopes to travel through the endless abyss of outgoing and happy people who clicked with her and showed her how to step out the moon rose, stars spilling across the Honduran sky. Her ya’s sophomore year. Maya wanted to leave the dysfunctional society but not her space. But currently, she strives to learn about the world of her comfort zone and be more social and open. big move to the United States was just two days away, and friends. A around her and beyond by studying astrophysics and “I learned not to put myself in a box and define who I could and couldn’t hang sadness crept in as she asked herself, “Will this be the last “It was bittersweet,” she said. Her mother chose Portland for the quality of life capturing photos for her school yearbook. out with,” Melanie said. time that I see all of this?” and better schools. Maria Fiallos was tired of constantly driving in Tegucigalpa, “Astrophysics and photography may seem like they She continues to dive into science, as she is currently reading “A Brief History She didn’t want to lose the view from her suburban M and Portland’s transportation system stood out. have nothing in common,” Melanie of Time” by Stephen Hawking. home, surrounded by hills. “She said, ‘You know, let’s just go there and not buy a car. Let’s live in a small Melanie longs for the next step “I remem- said. “But for me, they’re both apartment, have more money and about expanding your knowledge of in her discovery to be at a four- ber I cried myself to sleep,” she said. live happier,’” Maya said. Maya landed in Portland late at everything around you.” year university. That might mean Maya attends Lincoln High Melanie displayed that curiosity leaving her mother, Ana, whom night. She was mesmerized by the School, where she can take class- buildings and bridge lights. Fall at an early age. She had a habit of Melanie describes as protective es that she couldn’t in the private leaves covered the city with a layer picking up roly polys and putting and caring. Even being apart schools in Tegucigalpa. She is also of orange, an unfamiliar sight for them in her pockets, until teachers for a week for the High School putting her Spanish to use with Ore- someone from a tropical climate. told her to empty them to ensure no Journalism Institute made her Her life in Honduras didn’t always gon’s first high school level Spanish bugs were released into class. hesitant. feel safe. It is considered one of magazine, Puño y Letra (Fist and Religion initially taught Melanie “I just want to make my the most dangerous countries in the Letter). about her surroundings. She spent mom happy and give my kids world. Maya misses the culture and Initially, it was hard to fit in. most of her early years in an urban what my mother gave me: love scenery of her hometown Teguci- “When I first got here I didn’t area of Los Angeles, not far from and care,” Melanie said. “I want galpa, but she watched as it grew want to make any friends — I just downtown. She mostly stayed with to give back and be successful.” increasingly politically corrupt and wanted to focus on my grades — be- her mother and visited her father So Melanie plans to pursue as gang violence rose. She could cause I have my forever friends back every other weekend to go to church. her dreams, hoping to help people never walk the streets alone. At an home,” Maya said. But inevitably, It wasn’t until early adolescence with science. Maybe she’ll keep age when American teenagers would she began talking to people. “You that she decided to transition exploring astrophysics. usually be getting their driver’s li- cannot live without friends.” to a more scientific belief “I don’t know truly yet,” censes, she had to rely on her mother This upcoming school year she’ll system. Melanie follows theistic Melanie said. “I still need to dig to drive her everywhere. The vio- take a class in astronomy, where she creationism, a view that regards down and find out what I want to lence even reached one of her close can study the stars that she used to religious teachings about God as do.” friends, whose uncle and cousins see out of her bedroom window in compatible with modern scientific After all, her opportunities were killed. Honduras. understanding. span the universe. FRONT ROW, FROM LEFT SECOND ROW, FROM LEFT THIRD ROW, FROM LEFT Kyleah Puyear \ St. Helens, Melanie Gonzalez \ Reynolds, Annie Vong \ Parkrose, Amelia Underhill \ Alex Diaz \ Parkrose, Sarah Milshtein \ Westview, Jovani Camarena \ Reynolds, Isabel Angeles Lim \ Parkrose, Izzy Escobar \ Parkrose, Hanin Najjar Silverton, Maya Fiallos \ Lincoln, Julian Wyatt \ Grant, Dylan Palmer \ Grant, Elizabeth Radcliffe \ North Marion, The PRIDE 2016 staff \ International School of Beaverton, Sonide Bocage \ Parkrose Toli Tate \ Grant, Allison Echeverria \ Westview Kyler Kaykeo \ Fort Vancouver Staff portrait by BEN BRINK