Megan's Blog

Natasha Shevel “Right now, I’m between psychology and social services. I initially went into social services because it was a way for me to help people. Then I talked to my academic advisor and that helped me understand that psychology also allows me to go into counseling and therapy, and that’s what I would love to do. I did want to go into law enforcement for the longest time, but for law enforcement, you don’t really need a degree. One of my coworkers explained to me the importance of figuring out what you want to do and what you’d enjoy doing. She helped me work out what I’d like to do. The counselor here as well really helped me work things through and if opened my perspective up about what I truly want to do.” Cat Bricker “Right now I’m getting my accounting clerk certifications. I’m contracted at HP, so I decided to go back to school to butter up my resume. My husband works here, so that’s a bonus. He’s an instructional assistant in the welding department. I...

Lebanon, Oregon, Mayor Paul Aziz has decorated his house since 2010, and accepts donations, in the white mail box located in his front yard, for a charity every year. This year, donations are going toward the new Applegate Veteran Facility. The lights will go on in six days, for more information, go to cascadechristmaslights.com. The Kuhn Theater in Lebanon, Oregon was built in the 1930s. In recent years, 2005, it has been restored and reopened thanks to national pressure and donations to help renovate the cinema in order to show movies in the modern era--projections instead of film. Now showing Frozen 2, the theater is set up for Christmas and open daily. For more information and show times, go to kuhncinema.com. Linn Lanes Bowling Alley in Lebanon, Oregon is a staple for Lebanon families and many bowling tournaments. Elizabeth Wright has worked here for quite some time, and although Thursdays aren't that busy, Fridays can get insane, she says. Known for the b...

     I am going to photograph Albany, although I live in Lacomb currently. I lived in Albany for 15 years. I was born in Lebanon, but we moved to Albany when I was three. I went to school in Albany, and some of my fondest memories growing up were in this town. I am going to go to the Albany Regal Cinemas to take a portrait. I have always loved going to the theater, and this photo would really be able to demonstrate that. For the landmark, I am going to photograph Monteith Park, specifically the stage. I have always loved getting on that stage when no one is around to just dance and be a goof, not to mention the countless times I went to River Rhythms as a kid. Finally, for the action, I would like to try to get people representing a presidential candidate or Kate Brown outside City Hall or Target, where they usually are. Sometimes there are even people on 34th who are part of a Union. These movements really make me smile because I remember when I was little, I loved how m...

South Albany High School in Albany, Oregon, is home to the award winning SAHS Cheer. A stunt group made up of Kaylie Johnson (flier), Summer Ohling, Alissa Welch, and Kinna Cangiuna, practices a Tick-Tock, a move where they switch legs in a stunt. SAHS cheer practices in the commons, the South Albany cafeteria. Stunter Alyssa Marstall, an All-State member of the South Albany High School cheer in Albany, Oregon, achieves a successful Tick-Tock in stunt. The whole South Albany High School cheer team erupts in applause as she takes in the success of an advanced move. SAHS cheer in Albany, Oregon, practices combinations in the Commons Cafeteria Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 3-6:30. They start with stretching, then they stunt for a while, practice forms and their routines, and finally, they practice tumbling and combination jumps.

     Lynsey Addario's adventures so far in this book are absolutely insane. I can't think of any other way to describe them. To think one person has had the ability to experience so many different cultures first hand just in their twenties is pretty amazing. The war, loss, and lives she has had the privilege to photograph is impeccable. I admire her love for what she does, and it is inspiring to read about such a young person doing such incredible things around the world and in what we consider dangerous atmospheres.      The main thing which has made an impact on me is when a car bomb goes off right in front of her and the guy who was standing just within arms length of her ends up dying because he wanted to capture the action. It was so close to being her and not Paul. This was her first real experience with loss, which I think is also really notable. Her reaction is so relatable and raw. When she goes out of eyesight to cry, I got pretty emotional while...

Eddie Hernandez has worked at Beggs Tire and Wheel in Albany for the last two years, but has been in the industry for over 20, working at Les Schwab and South Pacific Auto Sales. He is an Assistant Manager and the lead mechanic for the shop. What are his favorite parts of the job? "Helping out those that are less fortunate than us, being able to give back to the community with great service, compassion, and understanding."  Eddie Hernandez