Some Feelings Never Change
By: Eleanor Peterson
Looking through the archives, the evolution and transformation of the Klipsun magazine is apparent. What started out as an annual publication printed at the school’s own print plant in the late 1960s is now a significant platform for students, aspiring journalists and community members alike. Despite the cultural, technological and social changes that have occurred in the decades of the Klipsun’s running-history, Western Washington University student spirit and personality have been a constant. Here’s a look at some feelings that have never changed.
1967, Vol 01, Issue 01 – Fall, “College... According to the Catalog”, Photo by Larry Adams
The Klipsun was first conceived as a yearbook, featuring announcements on homecoming, football and the arts. This photo is taken from a tongue-in-cheek photo essay meant to resemble the school’s catalog. “Students are encouraged to become involved in some aspect of the out-of-class activity program.” Catalog, p. 31.
1972, Issue 06 – Spring, “Klipsun Gallery”, Photo by Leo Verbon
The first decade of the Klipsun saw moody and dramatic photo portraits and magazine spreads, reflective of the increasing popularity of conceptual photography during the time. Never mind the lack of color in photos, there is nothing more expressive than a cartwheel.
1980, Volume 10, Issue 02 – January, “More than a Bike”, Photo by R. Scott Terrell (Yes, that Scott Terrell – now an adjunct instructor!)
Biking in Bellingham has a timeless quality to it. Theresa St. Hilaire wrote on her experience riding a moped and claimed that, “They offer a less strenuous alternative to bicycles --- although you’ll probably have to work about twice as long to earn the money to buy one.”
1983, Volume 13, Issue 01 – March “Personal Stereo-Portable Escape”, Photo by Dave
Jack Show this photo to your grandparents next time they complain about young people wearing headphones in public. A scene similar to one you may see today; Red Square provides the perfect opportunity for a quick main character moment in between classes.
1983, Volume 13, Issue 02 – April, “Where Freedom is Still Fashionable: A Plunge into Bellingham’s Second-Hand Clothing Store Scene”, Photo by Dave Jack
Thrifted from The Prudent Penny at 306 W. Champion in 1983, “causal wear matches casual attitudes”. Featuring satin zip-up baseball jacket for $10.50, Levis for $5.25, Brunswick saddle shoes for $3.50, a 73 Kandel letterman sweater for $26 and Cari Michelle shades for $4.00. To embrace one’s unique style will never go out of style, especially on a budget.
1990 – October, “Graduate Turns Disability into a Plus”, Photo by Dave Rubert
Tim Roos, a 1987 Western graduate, explains the influence his disability has had on his life for what he describes as the better. Roos for the October 1990 Klipsun issue said, “I think my disability has made me the person I am today.” His humorous and honest speeches to Western classes provided him with the opportunity to educate and become closer to people.
1991, Volume 28, Issue 02 – October “Western 101 A Guide for Prospective Hipsters”
Photo by Mark Talkington, Pictured: sophomore Mike Ridgeway, senior Natan Lukes, sophomore Erin Brummel and sophomore Mike Schindler
Western dining halls have long been a hot topic on campus, but something that brings the student body together. According to the 1991 Klipsun story, Western 101: A Guide for Prospective Hipsters, “All you have to do is start bitching about the food and anyone with a grain of social sense will chime right in with similar complaints.”
2005, Volume 36, Issue 01- September, “The 21 Run” Photos by Amanda Woolley. D
A series of events familiar to current and former students alike.
a] ‘It's my Birthday!’ Jeff announces to The Rogue.
b] Jeff marks his drink tally on his forearm.
c] Toward the end of the nighty Jeff prepares to pass out.”
The “21 run”, a celebratory introduction to bar hopping, is regarded by many as a rite of passage.
It is common for college students, such as Jeff photographed here, to dive headfirst into the privileges of adulthood during their 21 run.
2006, Volume 36, Issue 05 – April “Exchanging Experiences”, Photo by Kathryn Brenize Pictured: Saiko Sugiyamu Thomas Yount and Nami Isato
The International Student Exchange Program has been partnered with WWU EdAbroad since 1983. Since then, international exchange students have become an important part of the Western community. Bringing with them opportunities for intercultural exchange and understanding, Western would not be the same without its international exchange community.
2009, Volume 40, Issue 01 – Fall, “A Smashing Experience”, Photo Courtesy of Miranda Eubanks
Super Smash Bros was first released in 1999 for the Nintendo 64. Since then, the game has been published across a variety of consoles and gaming methods. Though not at the forefront of videogame hype, the game has never lost its influence and significance within the gaming community.
2013, Volume 44, Issue 02 – Fall, “The Fall: The impact of taking a leap”, Photo illustration by Ian Koppe “Kenny Powers does a backflip off of the Stadium Piece on the Communications Facility lawn of Western’s campus.”
Kenny Powers, interviewed for the Klipsun’s Fall 2013 issue, spoke on the impact of concussions on his passion for parkour and stunts. Though not everyone can do a backflip, everyone can relate to the feeling of having their world turned upside-down after an unexpected challenge. Power’s journey to overcome hurdles (metaphorically and literally) reflects the determination and grit of students.
2017, Volume 47, Issue 02 – Winter, “Proud to be a Bitch: Reclaiming an offensive term for power, strength and independence”, Photos by Kjell Deal
An opinion piece for the 2017 winter issue of the Klipsun focuses on the use of language in feminism. The reclaiming of this derogatory term highlights the progressive and open-minded thinking of Western students, something that has not much changed since 2017.