Megan's Journalism blog

  The sign for Laura Lane, a dead end street in my small neighborhood, mid-afternoon on a rainy day. This street is mainly used for cattle such as horses, goats and sheep. Throughout the day, cattle transport can be seen coming on and off of this street.  A view of the street from my parents’ house. There aren’t many houses or large buildings, as mainly what can be seen are just large empty fields and property used for animals and fertilizing. The heavy rain can be seen in the distance through the sky as well.  Christina Freitas, a senior home care worker, leaving for work in the morning. Living out of town means that nothing is necessarily within walking distance. Driving is needed and sometimes that means longer commutes. Although, there are upsides to that. Living out of town gives you perspective on the world and nature around everyone. 

  Halle Freitas, 17, is currently a student enrolled at Lebanon High school and taking a class at LBCC. She is currently taking Calculus at Linn-Benton and taking two college courses in high school: AP government and AP Literature. Because of COVID, all her classes have been online.  “School has been rough online, it’s harder to be in the mindset to learn and it’s been taking a toll on me mentally”, Freitas explains.  As far as her career path goes, she plans to possibly go into business. Her original plan was to go into chemical engineering, but she changed her mind because she decided that that’s not truly what she wants to do. After she finishes high school, she would like to go to Oregon State University for their band program. 

  A line of customers wait to get beverages at the Heritage mall Starbucks, mid afternoon. They can all be seen wearing masks in the line, keeping distance from each other. Places such as these are staying open in the mall by taking many precautions with one being wearing masks and keeping customers at a distance in lines. The play area at the food court of Albany Heritage mall  is seen to be closed, with other stores being seen as empty and closed up in the background. Not many people can be seen near or around as well. AT&T is seen to be closed while Bath and Body Works is booming with customers and people.  Caden Holler, a customer at the Albany Target store, is seen purchasing items at checkout. Both him and the cashier are seen in masks as he exchanges cash, paying for his items.