by Jihad Yarber

Oswego, NY- April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention month.

According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), 11% of college students experience rape or sexual assault on campus. Oswego State educates those on campus about how to assess these situations through Title IX training.

Title IX is a section of the federal Education Amendments Act of 1972 that prevents sexual discrimination in colleges.  Discrimination includes sexual harassment, assault, and rape.

Title IX training is required for many clubs, organizations, and employers on campus. It goes through the basics of sexual harassment training and how to avoid being a bystander.

Oswego State student Alyssa Barrett says the Title IX training provided on campus is beneficial.

“I feel like it was beneficial, not just for organizations or jobs. I think the video they show was effective. I think it’s important just to know about it in general,” she said.

Fraternities and sororities on campus must also go through the Title IX training in order to spread awareness about sexual harassment and assault to incoming members.

“Greek life honestly has a bad reputation,” Kappa Sigma president Steven Gerencser said. “People just think that we’re drinking clubs and all we do is take advantage of girls and do all that stuff, but I think it’s good because it shows we don’t just do that, it’s not the stereotypes. We care about people and it’s good we’re teaching our pledges that.”

Both Barrett and Gerencser feel the training is an excellent step to assure their wellbeing.

Reported by: Abigail Buttacavoli, WTOP-10 TV 

What’s better than the aroma of freshly popped popcorn and the boom of a new blockbuster film? To the people of Oswego, one little movie theater has been a family favorite for almost a century.

This year Oswego Cinema is celebrating 75 years in business since its grand opening on January 22, 1941. Originally located on the corner of Bridge Street and Second Street where the current theater stands was the Hippodrome Theater which opened its doors around 1910.

The Oswego Cinema,  referred to as the Oswego 7 Cinemas for its seven screen rooms, was built in 1940 for M. Shapiro and Sons and designed in the art deco style by noted architect of his time John Ebberson. The old time charm and the movement of the lights give an appearance of going back in time and that attracts Oswego moviegoers.

Vinny Ruggio, a lifelong Oswego resident, brought his grandchildren to the movies and explained his memories and his love of the theater. “It’s the best gig in town, even now for me,” he said, “and I want my grandchildren to enjoy the same experience and I hope this place always stays open.”

“I like the art deco atmosphere of the place, it just has a lot of history, being almost 75 years old,” said Cole Smith, the general manager. He believes the theater is a great part of the town.

Each and every person who comes through the doors of the cinema is witnessing a unique piece of history. Here’s to 75 more years!