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The "Performative Male" paper doll with all his accessories. Art by Basil Allen. In early August 2025, Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park was the venue of a Performative Male Contest , drawing large crowds of matcha-drinking, tote-bag-wearing contestants. This event was one of many similar gatherings throughout the nation, in the wake of the performative male trend gaining significant traction on social media platforms.  For those who are unfamiliar, Urban Dictionary defines  perfor

Students planting oak saplings during Willamette University's Oak Fest on Oct. 3, 2025. Photo by Mac Childers. Even parents could be found meandering with Willamette students and other community members to celebrate the fourth annual “Oak Fest” from Oct. 2-5. This year’s Fest, an event organized by Growing Oaks, covered a wide range of events such as an ecological tour of Bush Pasture Park, a potluck dinner presenting a natural dye workshop with oak materials, and a winery sh

Professor Mike Chasar answers a question about his song analysis during a lecture on “The Poetry of Bob Dylan” in Willamette University's Rogers Music Hall on Oct. 1, 2025. Photo by Mac Childers. Brought together by a shared passion for the work of renowned American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan, professor Mike Chasar welcomed Willamette professors James Miley and Erik Noftle, as well as Western Oregon University professor Dr. Ryan Topper, for a book release party and discussio