Welcome Day A Hit

Welcome Day commenced on Sept. 19 with a  "kick-off speech" in Takena Hall.

Mark Urista, Communication Faculty, introduced the day's speakers and performers, including Choir groups Blue Light Special and The Sirens, whose a cappella performances enchanted the audience.

LBCC President Greg Hamann made a short yet inspirational speech, welcoming new and returning students and wishing them a great and successful year.

Ruth Krueger, Poetry Club member, sited an original poem titled "Rivers," and extended a warm welcome for interested students to get involved. The Poetry Club meets at 3 p.m. on Tuesdays in the Hot Shot Cafe.

Our Student Body President Amanda McCowan's energetic and lively speech got the audience excited about the new school year and about the chance to try their hand at sinking President Hamann in the dunk-tank later that day. (A lucky few were successful.) McCowan talked about different clubs on campus and said that if anyone wants to start a club to come see the SLC (Student Leadership Council.) "Our ultimate goal is to make your college experience one you'll never forget."

SLC Assistant Advisor James Smith spoke about the "importance of getting the most out of our college experience," encouraging students to not just go through the motions, but to "go the extra mile" and get involved. "In the true spirit of what it means to be a roadrunner, write your own story."

Speeches wrapped up, and the "kick-off" ended with a raffle. Our Dean Sally Moore chose the winning raffle tickets from a box, and Journalism Advisor Rob Priewe handed out several prizes, including: a gift certificate for 3 tuition credits, several $50 bookstore gift cards, a portable DVD player, a wireless headset, gift cards to Chile's and Arco (the mention of free gas got the crowd cheering), and 5 pairs of tickets to the Barreljumpers on-campus performance on Oct. 5.

There was a fashion show in the Commons, followed by a few trivia questions, including when LBCC was founded, (1967), and small, stuffed roadrunners flew through the air to those who chimed in first with the correct answers. Raffle tickets were drawn to award two of the most exciting prizes of the day, 60-second shopping sprees at the bookstore.

Winners, Samuel Heuirre and Patty Nobles, had their right arms saran-wrapped together and backpacks strapped to their backs. When the timer started, they waddled around as fast as they could, cramming what they wanted into the other one's bag as spectators and students rooted them on from outside. They were able to gather a nice amount of supplies including notebooks, pens, paper, clothes, and of course new backpacks to start the year off right. Heuirre's loot totaled $291 and Nobles' was $202.

Javier Cervantes represented the Diversity Achievement Center and shared a few of the club's upcoming events, which include a Day of the Dead celebration, taking place Oct. 30 to Nov. 1, to commemorate people who have passed on. Anyone who would like to participate in honoring and remembering a loved one is welcome to come. Bring a photo of them, their favorite food, or just stop by the DAC to find out more. They will also be introducing the new layout of the center.

Eric Bryant, Moodle Administrator, had an information booth set up. The Destination Graduation classes will all be using Moodle, so for new students who aren't familiar or encounter problems using Moodle, it'll be helpful to remember that you can visit the student help desk for assistance, or you can text or call (541) 704-7001.

Support can be found on campus in many forms. The LBCC Veterans' Club, "The Voice for Veterans on Campus," was formed in 2009 to help veterans and their families. Faculty Advisor Lewis Franklin welcomes not only veterans but all students who want to participate in supporting veterans. See the Moodle calendar and keep your eye on The Commuter for upcoming meeting times.

The Career and Counseling Center was also in the courtyard sharing the resources they offer to students. Career, personal, and crisis counselors are available to students as well as employment specialists. "When a student is in crisis and they don't know where to turn, they can call us." said Charles Madriaga, College Counselor.

There was a lot to see, learn, and enjoy on Welcome Day. Returning student Michael McDonald thought there was a lot of good information on new programs, clubs, and the help that LBCC provides. "I had a lot of fun too, just walking around."

The Horticulture Club sold vegetables and fresh flowers as well as offering tours of the rooftop garden. The Theater group had a few puppets on display (Puppetry will be offered for the first time this Fall), and shared information on the other classes they will be offering this year, a few of which students may be surprised to learn, can go towards satisfying general education requirements.

Last but certainly not least, The Commuter was proud to be there speaking with students and letting them know that even those who are non-journalism majors are welcome to participate. Our new Editor-In-Chief Sean Bassinger felt that we had a really good turnout at Welcome Day this year. "A lot of students want to get actively involved with their community. It's very refreshing."

Bassinger encourages anyone who's interested in contributing to our school paper to stop by the office or send an email to Commuter@LinnBenton.edu. We're looking forward to the new school year and hoping there will be more student submissions, whether it be fiction, poetry, or even letters to the editor.