World Hijab Day

Photographer Marwah Alzabidi

Linn-Benton celebrates Muslim women’s right to hijab

Embracing different cultures under one roof, Linn-Benton welcomes diversity among students.

Feb. 1 is known as World Hijab Day. It is a day for Muslims and non-Muslims to come together and experience hijab, the traditional Muslim head scarf, for a day.

The Human and Civil Rights Club put together a Hijab Panel on Monday, Feb. 1, to better inform the campus of the wearing the hijab. The event was held at noon in the library.

Three woman braved the crowd: Elham Maqsood, Maryam Almasoodi, and Mona Gutub. The panel was mediated by social science instructor, Tim Watson.

“Draw the Hijab over your whole body,” said Maqsood. “Cover body from head to toe.”

A hijab is a veil that covers the head and chest. It is worn by some Muslim women after the age of puberty in the presence of adult males outside of their immediate family.

Maqsood began the discussion with “alssalam ealaykum,” which means peace be upon you. She then went on to discuss the religion Islam.

The religion began in Arabia and was revealed to humanity by the Prophet Muhammad. Those who follow Islam are called Muslims. Muslims believe that there is only one God. The Arabic word for God is Allah.

Maqsood explained the Holy Quran, which is a compilation of the verbal revelations given to the Holy Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years. The Holy Quran is the Holy Book of the Muslims. It sets forth their law and commandments, codes for their social and moral behavior, and contains comprehensive religious philosophy.

After discussing the religion and the Holy Quran, Maqsood explained the five pillars of Islam. These five pillars put into perspective the framework of Muslim life. The five pillars are: the testimony of faith, prayer, giving Zakat (support of the needy), fasting the month of Ramadan, and the pilgrimage of Makkah.

“Most western people have very negative ideas about Muslim women,” said Maqsood. “They think that we’re ignorant, segregated, and invisible.”

Muslim women are not represented in the media the way that they would like to be portrayed.

“Both genders are equal,” said Maqsood.

In Islam, sex is only allowed in matrimony. Men and women are not to engage in any sexual contact before marriage. When Muslim women wear a hijab they’re covering up and limiting the temptations. They also practice “lowering the gaze,” which also helps avoid any misleading behaviors.

“The face is what tempts men,” said Watson.

In America, Muslim women wear hijabs with their faces revealed for the communication factor, as American culture tends to rely on facial expressions for nonverbal communication. However, when traveling to Saudi Arabia they might cover their faces up because it’s less acceptable in their culture to reveal it.

“When I used to go to Saudi Arabia I would cover my face...over there it is tradition,” said Maqsood.

After presenting Maqsood fielded questions from the audience.

Christina Johnson a sociology student asked, “Do you see us objectifying ourselves as women?”

“No,” replied Maqsood.

Chelsey Mick, SLC clubs and engagement director asked, “Is it ever hot or uncomfortable?”

“It is good, we do it for god. It is not for us,” said Almasoodi.

Social science instructor Arfa Aflatooni asked hot button topics.

“Why don’t men cover their face? It’s a double standard here. It puts men in a difficult position.”

No matter the question the panel didn’t back down.

Maqsood closed by telling a story about discrimination her daughter has faced as a teenager.

“Don’t care about them,” said Maqsood.

She went on to tell a story about how her daughter’s classmates tried to convince her to take off her hijab because her mother wasn’t there. She stood up for her faith.

“If you're not from a society you can't judge it.”

To Wash or Not to Wash

Hand washing can save lives

Throughout the Linn-Benton campus there are 18 separate buildings. Among these buildings are restrooms.

Located inside all the restrooms are sinks, soap, paper towels, or hand dryers. There is even a friendly reminder posted to wash your hands after using the restroom.

A survey conducted on campus by The Commuter, 15 percent of staff and students do not wash their hands.

Honestly, how many of you remember to wash your hands after using the restroom? How to properly wash your hands? These are questions that every person should be asking themselves.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “keeping hands clean is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection and illness.”

Hand washing is as simple as tying your shoe. It is most effective in all settings if done properly.

Keeping your hands clean can stop germs from spreading person to person and through the community. This is very important as Linn-Benton is a community college with thousands on campus daily.

There are times a minimum of four times before activities and five times after activities in which hand washing is necessary to help prevent the spread of infection and illness. When in doubt, a good hand wash never hurt anyone.  

The most important part is how simple it really is: wet, lather, scrub, rinse, and dry. These five steps are easy, but just remember that while performing these steps to scrub for at least 20 seconds. It is very important to scrub the germs away.  

The CDC suggests humming the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.

When asked how long you should wash your hands for, student Brittney Holder said, “Counting the ABC’s.”

If water and soap are not available then use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

According to the CDC, “Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of microbes on hands in some situations, but sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs.” “Hand sanitizers may not be as effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.”

When should you wash your hands?

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating food
• Before and after caring for someone who is sick
• Before and after treating a cut or wound
• After using the toilet
• After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
• After touching garbage

What is the right way to wash your hands?

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.
• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

How do you use hand sanitizers?

• Apply the product to the palm of one hand (read the label to learn the correct amount).
• Rub your hands together.
• Rub the product over all surfaces of your hands and fingers until your hands are dry.

State Representative, Dan Rayfield visits LB

History instructor Scott McAleer and his History of Western Civilization classes welcomed the sixteenth House of Representatives, Dan Rayfield on Tuesday, Jan. 19 to discuss several important topics.

Rayfield discussed refinancing loans, state budgets, expenditures, fafsa issues, lobbyists, ballot measures, and internships.

There are Legislative Internship Opportunity and a Political Campaign Internship Opportunity during winter, spring and summer 2016.

Positions available are field intern, fundraising intern, and legislative intern.

Application deadline for internships will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Anyone interested should send a resume and cover letter discussing their interest in the position, qualifications for the position, and availability to Zach Baker at zach.baker@state.or.us.

Social Media Awareness: Social networking vs. handwritten letters to remain connected

On Feb. 23 the Diversity Achievement Center presented the pro’s and con’s regarding social media.

During the event, a film called “Social Bankruptcy” showcased what life would be like without social media, and how it affects individuals. Social media is everywhere, and it’s unavoidable, having become a communication tool for the majority of society.

According to outthinkgroup.com there are six types of social media: social network, bookmarking sites, social news, media sharing, microblogging and blog comments, and forums.

Apps are now being developed to curate your apps. One creator is Appcrawlr, and they have designed a site to better organize apps and how they’re used. A major focus is on social networking apps.

With social media as the number one activity on the web it has dangers associated with it. According to statistics from InternetSafety101.org, “Of the active adult users of Facebook, 66 percent reported they did not know privacy controls existed on Facebook and/or they did not know how to use the privacy controls.”

“If I could make a change to social media, it would probably be to get rid of the dangers that come with it,” said student Luis Cabeza.

Social media isn’t just about the apps used daily, it’s about the communication people have with each other. What happened to all the hand-written letters? At the end of the event cards, envelopes, and stamps were provided to write a letter that the DAC would send out.

According to The Wall Street Journal, studies suggest there's real value in learning and maintaining this ancient skill, even as we increasingly communicate electronically.

"It seems there is something really important about manually manipulating and drawing out two-dimensional things we see all the time," says Karin Harman James, assistant professor of psychology and neuroscience at Indiana University who led the study.

According to huffingtonpost.com there are nine reasons to not abandon hand written letters.

Those nine reasons are that they create lasting memories, show how much a person cares, make people feel good, make every word count, spark creativity, require undivided attention, require unplugging, they honor tradition, and they are timeless.  

“It has been a pretty long time since I have written a letter. It’s kind of hard to say, but I feel like I haven't written one since my sophomore year in high school,” said Cabeza.

Family Fun Day: Children and parents fill the Activity Center to raise funds

Kids play putt-putt golf.

For 38 years Family Fun Day has provided an opportunity for children and their parents to bond.      

This year’s annual Family Fun Day kicked off on Feb. 28 in the Activities Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Parents, children and staff all played a major role in the event.

The event featured activities for children and parents to embrace their imagination. The fun included a photo booth, putt-putt golf, face painting, target toss, karate, obstacle course, bounce house, fishing, Dr. Seuss games, and a reading area, transforming the gym into a playground.

Safe Haven Humane Society offered children a chance to meet Bailey and Fozzy the dogs, and a chance to color a critter. There was a used toy and books sale. Children also purchased playdough and silly putty from the Philomath Parent Cooperative Preschool.

Along with the activities, Mid-Valley Doula Network provided a family rest area for feeding and changing.

The event raised approximately $6,000. All money raised was from donations, ticket sales and concessions. All proceeds go the Parenting Education Grant Fund, allowing families to attend classes regardless of their financial situation.

Anyone who purchased over $20 in tickets received an Oil Can Henry's VIP pass, generously donated for 50 percent off their full service oil change or any other maintenance service.

Sponsors were G2 Fun Zone, Denise and Paul Strombeck and Good Samaritan Preschool. Food sponsors were Costco, Scio Thriftway and Fred Meyers. Volunteers were Kohls Associates in Action and LBCC Parenting Education faculty, class participants, families, and friends.

For $1 guests could purchase a ticket for a chance to win a variety of prizes ranging from handmade jackets, monthly flower delivery from Raindrop Flower Farm, OSU men’s sweatshirts and t-shirts, a free yoga session from Tiny Buddha Belly, and a marine discovery tour for two in Newport.

Profile: ROV Club at Linn-Benton

ROV’s or remotely operated vehicles are underwater robots that allow a person to control it above the water’s surface. ROV’s are connected to the topside via an umbilical link that houses communication cables, an energy source, and information transfer.

The ROV club is currently in the process of building their own remotely operated vehicle, however there are past ROV’s and one research ROV that club members can look at for reference while at the campus.

Currently at LBCC on Monday and Wednesday at 4 p.m. the ROV club meets in Madrone Hall in Room-114. The advisor for the ROV club is Greg Mulder, physics department chair.

Fellow student and ROV club member Melanie Woodard is the acting president. There are currently 20 people on the team.

“Everyone is a valued member and plays an important role with the building of LBCC's remote operated vehicle,” said member Cat Regan.

Club members can expect to work with a team to develop tools to solve engineering problems.

“Go swimming with a robot, and meet a great deal of talented and passionate individuals,” said member Willis Rogers.

Each year, the ROV Team participates in a competition both nationally and internationally called the MATE ROV Competition. MATE stands for Marine Advanced Technology Education.

“It’s a friendly competition where each team learns and helps each other out with problems they may face,” said Regan.

While attending group meetings the club discusses each sub team’s current project and what the team as a whole is working on. After group discussion, they break off into sub teams and work on current projects.

“We also make jokes, play with lasers, and draw lots of pictures,” said Regan.

There are four separate teams that cohesively work together as a team. Each team has a specific task such as: camera team, collection team, laser measurement team and a propulsion team.

The importance of the ROV club is to research and collect vital information. Without individuals like the members of the ROV club, humanity would still be in the dark when it comes to below the surface.

“ROV students get to learn about the depths of the ocean that no man can reach, due to pressures and temperatures. You can discover new species and learn more about a world that has barely been investigated,” said Regan.

“The ROV club is important because it allows students to work in an engineering environment. It's one thing to learn all the material in classes, but to work with a team to develop something really gives experience we all need. There are not very many opportunities for this type of thing outside of post-associate degree undergraduate work,” said Rogers.

If you find yourself reading this profile of the ROV club, attend the twice weekly meetings, and inform a member of your interest in joining the club. You never know what could be out there in the deep blue sea of knowledge.

For further information please contact Greg Mulder at mulderg@linnbenton.edu

Inclusive Panel Discussion at Linn-Benton

On Wednesday, Jan. 28 LBCC held and inclusive environment panel in the library.

Members on the panel included: Jane Sandberg (moderator), OSU staff member Tay McEdwards, Assistant Professor at OSU Dr. Qwo-li Driskill, student Kamran Ahmed Mirza, and LBCC student and community outreach director for the SLC Wyatt Zuber.

There are several terms used to describe someone whose gender was given to them at birth, and how they assimilate gender such as: transgender, trans*, gender non-conforming and cisgender. Each of these terms are considered an umbrella term.

Transgender is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity and/or gender expression differs from what is typically associated with the sex they were assigned at birth. People under the transgender umbrella may describe themselves using one or more of a wide variety of terms. Some transgender people are prescribed hormones or undergo surgery to change their bodies. But not all transgender people can or will take those steps, and a transgender identity is not dependent upon medical procedures.

Trans* is another umbrella term that makes a special effort to include all non-cisgender gender identities, including but not limited to: transgender, transexual, transvestite, genderqueer, genderfluid, non-binary, genderfuck, genderless, agender, non-gendered, third gender, two-spirited, bigender, and trans man and trans woman.

Gender nonconforming is yet another term used to describe people whose gender expression is different from conventional expectations of masculinity and femininity. Not all gender nonconforming people identify as transgender; nor are all transgender people gender non-conforming.

Cisgender is a term used to describe people who are not transgender. “Cis-” is a Latin prefix meaning “on the same side as,” and is therefore an antonym of “trans-.”

Transphobia is a term used as a bias or prejudice against transgender, trans*, and gender nonconforming people. Transphobia can be manifested in harassment and violence; exclusions from employment, healthcare, legal protections, or particular communities; or microaggressions against trans* individuals. The term cissexism is often used as a synonym for transphobia.

The panel was brought together to raise awareness of the harm caused by non-neutral environments for trans* and transgender individuals. Several topics were brought up during the discussion, including customer service interactions. Customer service interactions are one of the more serious topics mentioned because everyday people come into contact and communicate with a diverse group of people in the community.

Customer service issues such as cell phone companies have been around for eons. It’s nothing new, however it can be difficult for individuals from the trans* and transgender community. An issue that seemed to be unanimous among the panel was the usage of surnames.  

Pronouns and surnames are a way of identifying and approaching an individual. As children we’re told to use sir and ma’am in reference to people. However, this is a sensitive subject for the trans* and transgender community. Each individual prefers a different set of pronouns and surnames. The panelists were asked what they preferred.

“I prefer they, them and theirs,” said Driskill.

“I prefer females pronouns,” said Mirza.

“I prefer the surnames she, her or them, theirs and they,” said Sandberg.

During the question and answer portion of the panel, personal experiences with customer service, good and bad, were shared. For panelist McEdwards, he would rather the “conflict” between customer and customer service representative be quick and discreet.

“Misgendered? Apologize and quickly move on,” said McEdwards.

Another issue discussed revolved around the public areas in the community. Businesses, restaurants, and doctor offices are just a few places where it’s not necessarily understood how to interact with individuals of the trans* and transgender community.

“An openly dedicated company makes me more comfortable,” said Mirza.

The panelists were asked what it means to them to be trans* and or transgender. One panelist summed it up for everyone on the panel.

“For me, being trans* is about a sense of identity and I have a lot of pride,” said Mirza.

A college community has a responsibility to make everyone feels welcome and comfortable, and is not a place for discrimination. Students and staff on campus share the same goal of education. By understanding individuality, the environment can be more approachable and inviting for those of the trans* and transgender community, and LBCC took a step forward to support that message at last week’s discussion.

Leggings: To Wear or Not to Wear?

One particular item of clothing has become increasing popular, especially on campus. At Linn-Benton you can’t walk across the quad without seeing someone wearing leggings. That’s right, leggings are everywhere.

“[Leggings are a] popular dress fashion trend for women right now, and seem to have replaced denim as a casual wear staple. Leggings also give winter short skirt wearers an option to keep their legs warm,” said Chareane Wimbley-Gouveia, Learning Center coordinator.  

Leggings aren’t what they use to be. During the Renaissance period leggings were called hose. Hose were worn by both men and women. Wearing hose showed your status in society.  

They are many types of leggings such as: standard, jeggings, thermal leggings, stirrup leggings, and footed leggings.

In the 80’s, pop singers such as Cyndi Lauper and Madonna and films such as “Flashdance” brought the leggings into mainstream. It wasn’t until 2006 that leggings reclaimed their fame and took over the scene.

“Personally I always make sure my leggings fit correctly, so that they’re appropriate for wearing out in public,” said SLC President Adelaine Carter.

The way in which leggings are worn have been misconstrued by passer-byers. Instead of being an article of clothing to keep warm, they have become a provocative item.

“As far as wearing leggings to school I think it’s perfectly acceptable. They are a warm comfortable clothing option that’s perfect for a cold and rainy climate like Oregon,” said Carter.

Wearing leggings in the 21st century aren’t what they once were. Some say they do serve a purpose regardless of the provocative nature. Whether you choose to wear them for comfort, style or just because, you should consider what others see when you wear them in public. Each day we are criticized by the people around us. It’s unintentional, and yet it’s happens.

“Leggings are fine to wear as long as you don’t wear them as pants,” said student Rebecca Chandler.

“Leggings are fine with boots or Uggs,” said previous student Lex Porter.

Women have fought for equality and not to be objectified, but when you wear barely anything down below you’re asking for the unwanted attention. Dress for the career you want, and don’t attract the wrong kind of attention. However if your career doesn’t require business attire and actually requires leggings then you’re all set for success.  

Vape Pen Debate at Linn-Benton

Over the winter break a new policy was implemented at Linn-Benton. Students and faculty are no longer allowed to use vape pens on campus.

“From the College side of this argument, and I have observed this first hand, Vape users are disruptive to classroom, study, and culinary environments,” said Bruce Thompson, safety and loss prevention.

Currently Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Lane Community College, and Chemeketa Community College prohibit the use of vape pens on campus.

“I don’t think vape pens need to be treated like cigarettes as far as having a designated vaping area,” said previous student Johnie Stiltner.

Vape pens are to be used at the designated smoke shacks located around campus by McKenzie Hall, Takena Hall, English Language & Culture Institute, Luckiamute Center, and behind the service building.

“I do not like being forced to use the smoking area because the smell of cigarettes makes me nauseous,” said student Dennis Hill.

The use of vape pens is considered to be a healthier alternative over tobacco cigarette smoking according to many retailers, however considering that they are a new product there is little evidence proving a “healthy” alternative.

“To me vape pens are trading one evil for another,” said SLC President Adelaine Carter.  

Vaporizers use water, e-liquids, or juices that are made up of four ingredients: Propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, food-grade flavors, and the optional nicotine.

“Smokeless does not mean harmless,” said Chareane Wimbley-Gouveia, Learning Center coordinator.

The debate of whether vaping is cleaner for you and the environment because it does not emit second-hand smoke or nasty smells continues.

“The smell is barely there when someone uses a vape pen compared to cigarettes,” said student Christie Gangewer.

Currently the FDA does not regulate vape pens, according to vaporizer-pen.org. There are no laws with regards to the materials and ingredients that must be used in production of vape pens. It is also said that the odds of vaporizers helping you quit smoking overnight are very low.

There have been cases of users being allergic to one of the ingredients in e-liquids called Propylene Glycol.

“I think vape pens are a cool tool for people who like to use them and are way less invasive than cigarettes,” said student Kamran Ahmed Mirza.

Overall vape pens are legal and a consenting adult can engage in their use.

“Vape pens are a personal choice,” said student Nikki Ponce.

Army Infantry Specialist: Brent Riley

Army Infantry Specialist Brent Riley takes a break
near the Iran border.

Local resident Brent Riley was an Army Infantry Specialist for the U.S. He first joined when he was 18-years-old.

Riley was first deployed at nineteen.

“I wanted to go fight terrorists and see the world,” said Riley.

He also has family members who are veterans. His grandfather fought in WWI and his cousin was in the army as well.

He was on active duty for five and a half years. During that time he was deployed every other year. He spent 15 months in Baghdad in 2006 and 12 months in the Diyala province in 2008.

Riley was in combat infantry, which means that he kicked down doors, cleared houses, captured high value targets, missions, patrols, raids, firefights, and security.

After his five years of off-and-on deployment Riley was honorably discharged. He was ready to be a civilian and own his life once again.

“It was a good and bad experience,” said Riley.

He loved the friends he made and the bonds they forged in war. When he lost people he loved in the war it was a difficult experience for him.

“Being in the service has made me a better person,” said Riley.

Life wasn’t easy for Riley after being discharged. He had to readjust his way of thinking about the people around him. He had to form new relationships with people. He had better bonds with his combat pals than his wife and family because of what they went through together.

“Life is great now. No one has shot at me since I left Iraq, so every day is a good day,” said Riley.

After his stint in the army he has no regrets. Even the loss of his combat pals and the lack of sleep he still has no regrets. Everything that he went through only made him a stronger individual.

Currently Riley is finishing up his bachelor’s degree and wants to continue on with his education to complete his master’s. When he is finished with school he would like to move to Central Oregon. He would like to be a business systems analyst when he completes his college career.

Once moved to Central Oregon “I would like to hunt, fish, snowboard, and drink beer until he’s old and dead,” said Riley.

Fighting for your country and rights isn’t for everyone. It takes a certain kind of individual. Army Infantry Specialist Brent Riley is the that kind of individual.