What has been referred to for years as the Department of Public Safety on the University of Oregon campus has now officially changed its name to the University of Oregon Police Department. “With the name change, there’s no difference in the way that we’re deploying our services right now,” said Kelly McIver, UOPD’s Public Information Officer. While there are police officers currently on staff, they are not usually engaged with regular patrols or response. UOPD’s number one priority is campus safety involving off-campus hazards, such as bike theft.

UOPD, however, first has to ease the reputation for being harsh on students. “It’s a common misconception that the Department of Public Safety, or now the Police Department, is here to enforce things on students, but that couldn’t be more wrong,” said McIver.

The proposed equipment changes and potential addition of firearms within the next year have raised the concerns of students, among them recent graduate Matthew Brauer. “I think the more people in authority that we have around us carrying weaponry visibly creates a sort of nervous environment that people, and especially students, don’t need to be in,” he remarked.

“No equipment changes, there’s not firearms being carried by officers on campus. That’s something that we’re going to be talking about on campus this year during the academic year 2012-13” said Kelly McIver. Students’ votes play a large role in whether UOPD will ever carry firearms on campus. Fore more information please visit police.uoregon.edu.

Student safety on campus is a concern, especially when it comes to problems between pedestrians and drivers. Many students who walk to class are confused about the laws related to jay-walking and whether or not they have the right of way. Adam Lillengreen, UOPD officer, said, “In the city of Eugene, jay-walking is defined as failing to cross the street at a right angle.” Crossing the street at a 45 degree angle or less could cause a hazardous situation, resulting in a ticket. As long as pedestrians follow the 90 degree rule, it’s legal not to use a crosswalk. Yet, Lillengreen continued, “Generally speaking, pedestrians have the right of way whenever they’re at a crosswalk. That crosswalk doesn’t necessarily have to be marked.” If someone decides to cross the street at 90 degrees, cars legally have the right of way but it’s not technically illegal. Students should always be aware of their surroundings in order to safely cross any street.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and Eugene is working hard to raise awareness. Students and staff have several options for getting involved in the fight against breast cancer. On October 21st, the third annual “Race for the Cure” will be held at Autzen Stadium; participants have the option of a 5k walk or run. To register for the Eugene “Race for the Cure,” go to komenoregon.org. Also, Dutch Brothers, an Oregon-based coffee shop in the Eugene area, is doing its part to stay active in the fight against breast cancer. All month pink ‘be aware’ travel mugs will be on sale.They are $12 each and the proceeds will be going to uninsured or underinsured women who can’t afford screenings.