Paula Ortiz Cazaubon
Articles
Quarantine from the lens of a photojournalist
Like everyone else, life has shifted abruptly and dramatically for these seven photojournalists. Although The Beacon continues to work remotely amidst the coronavirus pandemic, photojournalists face new challenges as they attempt to capture images that represent the stories we continue to write. They are faced with the grief that comes from what they have lost in the transition, the frustration that comes with helplessness, and the anxiety of not knowing what will happen next.
Students self-express through stickers
We have all seen it before. You walk along your merry way and see countless people with their water bottles layered in copious numbers of stickers, making the actual color of the water bottle hardly visible. Behind the sound of the tip-tapping of fingers flying, typing notes and papers on keyboards, is the image of a completely sticker-covered laptop. With all the opportunities for self-expression stickers make available to us, even refrigerators can gain opinions and personalities. The Beacon decided to talk to students about their stickers, setting out to discover the reasons why students love putting them on just about any surface and the meanings behind the ones they chose.
STAFF OPINION: You're the worst type of customer. You just don't know it yet
We forget that because we’re paying for a service we’re still dealing with human beings. We’re flawed and imperfect, and that doesn't magically go away when you wait on someone. No one is actively trying to ruin your day or inconvenience you.
STAFF OPINION: Enough with the catcalling!
We should all be obligated to reflect on catcalling — who it impacts and how to stop it. We’re in the bubble of a private Catholic school that has a small community where everyone knows everyone. We’re part of a bigger bubble that is Portland, a fairly progressive, liberal city, yet catcalling still happens. This opinion wasn’t written because I hate men or because I blame men for all my problems. I wrote it because regardless of me responding and defending myself, I was terrified. Because even if it wasn’t dark out, it could’ve still gone wrong. Because my parents taught me to always walk holding my keys and because having to double-check the people walking behind me shouldn’t be routine for me.
Staff Opinion: Listen to your body
I remember sitting on my living room couch with my mom and sisters. Every Thursday night we would stop what we were doing and get ready to watch Grey's Anatomy. I distinctly remember the Grey’s Anatomy episode when a woman came into the hospital with a huge tumor on her belly. She kept putting off getting it checked because she was scared. Bad past experiences with doctors and hospitals left her wanting to deal with hospitals as little as possible. Her putting it off ultimately led to her death. This episode really stuck with me.
Another Latinx playlist: Christmas edition
We know this may come as a shock to some people, but there are more Spanish Christmas songs than just “Feliz Navidad.” But worry not! The Beacon is here to school you on the most popping Spanish Christmas songs in the game. So, without further ado, Feliz Navidad y’all! Let’s get this bread and ace all our finals.
We've got your second Latinx playlist: Soft rock edition
For the second playlist honoring Latinx heritage month, The Beacon has decided to show you a different aspect of Latin music. This playlist is more soft rock, alternative and indie pop. All of these musicians deserve some recognition for their highly talented tunes. This playlist is perfect for study sessions or for just some feel-good jams you can bop to at any time of the day.
We have your Latinx playlist
In observance of Latinx Heritage month (which runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15), The Beacon is going to bring you playlists for the next few weeks, featuring some of the best Latinx artists in the business. Grab some headphones, read up on the song’s background information and get dancing to our first playlist.
Staff Opinion: Political correctness hinders healthy dialogue
Before I rub anyone the wrong way, let me say that as active members of society we need to constantly question the systems or practices that are in place. Not to sound overly dramatic, but it’s the way to move forward. To grow and learn from what’s working and what isn’t. So, please just bear with me until the end of this piece.
