Mount Hood

Summer campus improvements

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

As the seasons change from summer to fall, and students gear up for another new year, some may notice a few improvements to Western’s campus. One notable change is the merging of Caffe Allegro and Wolf Express; the retail items that were previously located in Wolf Express will now be found in Caffe Allegro in addition to the café drinks. The only revision to the coffee menu is the smoothies which will now only be found at The Press in Hamersly Library. The location that was previously Wolf Express will be reconstructed into a meeting room named the McKenzie Room. Similar to other spaces in the Werner University Center, the McKenzie Room will be available for club or group reservations and events.

Another noteworthy addition to Western’s campus: the new Student Health and Counseling Center. Located on Monmouth Avenue across from the library, the new center has more medical exam rooms, larger lab areas and an increased number of counseling spaces compared to its previous location. With increased space comes the expansion of services provided by the SHCC, including the renewal of the CCare program, which will provide free contraception and preventive care for students. The official grand opening of the Student Health and Counseling Center will take place on Oct. 2.

Big changes are also coming to the Oregon Military Academy. Money was received to carry out essential renovations to the building and big decisions are still in the works. According to a State of the University Address given by President Rex Fuller in September 2017, it is likely that part of the building will house the Admissions and Financial Aid offices. The vision also includes a “living and learning” area to host visiting groups. According to President Fuller, “the building affords the campus a unique opportunity to develop space that will assist our efforts to provide conferences focused on such things as first-generation enrollments and graduate certificate programs.” These changes are scheduled for the 2017-19 biennium.

Visit wou.edu/president for more information on campus renovations and university planning.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

 

Upcoming performances in a town near you

Alexandra Martin | Entertainment Editor

Take off those Ugg boots and put down that pumpkin spiced whatchamacallit that you’ve waited for this whole year; grab your dancing shoes and prepare yourself for a musically filled fall to remember. Sure, the autumnal weather may have taken a bit of pep out of your summer swagger, but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep the music turned all the way up to 11 until the winds change. Here are some concerts, events and performances coming to a city near you that are sure to satiate even the most particular aesthetic appetite:

 

Monmouth, OR:

Sept. 29, 2017: The Ladybugs at Rice Auditorium

Oct. 6, 2017: BodyVox: BloodyVox at Rice Auditorium

Oct. 6, 2017: Laser Tag in Ackerman Grove

Oct. 13, 2017: Tom Bergeron Brasil Band featuring Choro Das 3 at Smith Music Hall

For more information on these events please visit: calendar.wou.edu

Portland, OR:

Oct. 3, 2017: Bleachers-Gone Now Era-Part 1 at the Roseland Theatre (roselandpdx.com)

Oct. 3, 2017: Nekromantix at the Hawthorne Theatre (mikethrasherpresents.com)

Oct. 3, 2017: Lil Peep-Come Over When You’re Sober Tour at the Wonder Ballroom (roselandpdx.com)

Oct. 4, 2017: DOPE at the Hawthorne Theatre (mikethrasherpresents.com)

Oct. 4, 2017: Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley at the Roseland Theatre (roselandpdx.com)

Oct. 5, 2017: HelloGoodbye at the Hawthorne Theatre (mikethrasherpresents.com)

Oct. 7, 2017: MAX at the Hawthorne Theatre (mikethrasherpresents.com)

Oct. 8, 2017: The Menzingers at the Hawthorne Theatre (mikethrasherpresents.com)

Oct. 8, 2017: The Shins at the Roseland Theatre (roselandpdx.com)

Eugene, OR:

Oct. 29, 2017: Jimmy Eat World at the McDonald Theatre (mikethrasherpresents.com)

Contact the author at journalentertainment@wou.edu

A summary of summer

Alexandra Martin | Entertainment Editor

Being on the “Path of Totality” undoubtedly put Oregon on the map this summer, casting a bit of a shadow on the events—no pun intended—that came before and after the once in a lifetime occurrence around the state and the nation. Across the United States, this past season was not only filled with long hot days, but, at the risk of sounding cliché, hotter and longer nights.

Burning Man, the Superbowl of self-proclaimed “radical” festivals held in Black Rock City, Nevada is one of the grandest festivals of modern day. This festival is one that will surely cost a pretty penny; around 425-1200 of them to be exact according to burningman.org. Aside from the cost, Burning Man is one of the few festivals that promote community, self-reflection and the free exchange of goods and services. This freedom is something that draws people from all walks of life to attend each year.

Another lighthearted event that took place this past summer was based out of Veneta, Oregon. The Oregon Country Fair shares a similar outlook as Burning Man, being one of the state’s most artisanal and free-spirited events. Riddled with music, puppeteers, dancing and an assortment of other liberated happenings throughout the three-day festival; it is something every Oregonian ought to experience in their lifetime.

From quirky alternative to funky blues comes the Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland, Oregon. An annual 3 to 5 day engagement, this festival is unlike others in that it is held in the heart of the city. But once inside the gates, a person tends to forget the hustle and bustle of the city life surrounding them and is immersed in those rhythmic, soulful, funky beats that almost no one can withstand enjoying.

Of course, these are just a couple examples of where this past summer has taken us. Naturally, one thing is always certain: next summer will undoubtedly be just as, if not more, spectacular.

Contact the author at journalentertainment@wou.edu

New Student Week provides a warm welcome for incoming students

Photo by Amber Glinski
Sam Dunaway | News Editor

New Student Week kicked off with the Sunday night Play Fair. Hundreds of new students gathered in the gym for ice breakers, ultimate rock-paper-scissors, dancing and group selfies. The evening ended with the traditional “W” group photo in the New PE Gym.

Monday’s activities included a convocation featuring Monti Washington. Washington shared his story about growing up in and out of foster homes, spending nights on the streets and being the victim of emotional and physical abuse at a young age. His story was impactful, inspiring and it encouraged students to be themselves and embrace their story.

One of the biggest hits of the week was the Dating Doctor. David Coleman offered real advice about dating, relationships, pickup lines and love.

Maura Cullen has been speaking to Western students for 25 years. Her program, “Toto We’re Not in Kansas Anymore,” explored issues focused around gender, race, sexual orientation, socio-economic class, age and religion. It’s aim was to lead students to recognize why they discriminate against others and what each person can do to create a more inclusive and diverse community.

The Student Orgs and Activities Fair on Wednesday provided an opportunity for new students to find ways to get involved on campus. Organizations ranging from student government, club sports, religious organizations, fraternities and sororities were in attendance. Students had the chance to sign up to volunteer, find out about club meetings and events and learn more about starting an organization on campus.

As new students begin to explore an unfamiliar environment, it’s important to talk about the use of alcohol in an appropriate and safe manner. The “Shot of Reality” program focused on safe drinking habits, education on the dangers of alcohol and how to take care of a person who has had too much to drink.

A unique New Student Week tradition premiered on Friday — the New Student Sunrise. Students made their way to the McArthur Stadium bright and early to gather and experience the rise of the sun as their first year of college began. This chapter of life comes to an end near graduation when the students gather again to watch the sunset, perfectly bookending their college experience. This event, hosted by the Student Activities Board, is expected to become a lasting Western tradition.

A study done by Jeff S. Howard from East Tennessee State University found that students that participate in orientation like New Student Week are more likely to stay at the university all four years, earn higher GPAs, and feel more connected to the university than those who didn’t. The purpose of New Student Week isn’t just to welcome Western students to campus, but also to make a meaningful impact on their college years and give them the tools they need to be successful throughout their career as a Western student.

From everyone at the Western Journal: good luck all new and returning students, and have a great fall term.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu.

Wolves see overtime loss

Zoe Strickland | Managing Editor

The Wolves spent Oct. 23 in a deadlock against the No. 22-ranked Humboldt State University Lumberjacks — eventually succumbing to a 48-49 loss in overtime. This was the first home game of the season for Western.

Ultimately, the Wolves would get 517 offensive yards for the day. The players to watch included senior Paul Revis, who accumulated a whopping 176-yards and two touchdowns, and sophomore Torreahno Sweet, whose 111-yards gained the Wolves three touchdowns throughout the course of the game.

HSU obtained the majority of their points by taking advantage of long plays and holes in Western’s defensive line. Western’s path to points involved more plays and ultimately more time in possession of the ball.

Fans saw a continuous back-and-forth between the two teams, with the Lumberjacks leading 7-14 after the first quarter. The second quarter saw three touchdowns at the hands of senior Kenny Portara, Revis and Sweet, raising the score to 28-14 at the half.

Though the third quarter began to even out the score, the Wolves held the lead with 35-28. What began to look promising in the third quarter ultimately came to a halt in the fourth.

A 42-42 tie at the end of the fourth led the game into overtime. The overtime caused both teams to kick it into gear; the Lumberjack’s Ja’Quan Gardner and Wolves’ Sweet both scored touchdowns at the top. Lumberjack Jose Morales completed the kick, bringing HSU to a combined 49 points.

The roughest moment of the day came when Wolves junior Adrian Saldana missed the kick that would’ve once again tied the game 49-49. Instead, the Wolves surrendered the win to the Lumberjacks. This was the third consecutive home loss for the Wolves against HSU. They face the team again on the road in October.

The loss results in the Wolves falling 1-3 overall. On Sep. 30 the Wolves head to Glendora, CA to head off against Azusa Pacific. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.

Contact the author at journalmanaging@wou.edu.

Monmouth offers small town fun

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

Between the hustle and bustle of a new school year, preparing for and beginning the fall term and attempting to adjust to an entirely new schedule, it can be a daunting task for students to find time for themselves. However, in order to let your brain reboot and therefore increase productivity, it’s incredibly important. While attending school in the small town of Monmouth may seem like it limits your options for fun, in reality, there’s still a plethora of ways to unwind and find enjoyment just down the road from Western’s campus.

What better way to take a break from the day-to-day business than to treat yourself to one of the amazing restaurants that the city has to offer? All along Main Street, students can find endless eateries that can match any craving. From pizza at Yeasty Beasty, to celebrating Wing Wednesdays at the Main St Pub & Eatery — even to satisfying a sweet tooth down the road at Fro-Zone Frozen Yogurt in Independence. Simply walking down Main Street will offer you countless mouth-watering options. However, if students go a little further they can find more treats that Monmouth has to offer. Hidden away are restaurants such as Rookies, Pink House Cafe and Starduster Diner — all student favorites.

While the choice of food is seemingly endless, it is certainly not all that Monmouth has to offer. When the weekend rolls around and you’re looking for a little fun, get a group together or take a date down to PuttSkee’s off of Monmouth-Independence Highway for some mini golf. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, head to the skatepark next door to show off some impressive tricks. Or, if you want to work on those strikes and spares, head down to Dallas’ Starlite Lanes to get a good game of bowling in.

Itching to see something in theaters? On Friday nights go take part in discounted films in Independence with Midnight Movies. And if students are up for a short drive, they can go to Salem “because there’s always something to do there,” as noted by sophomore nursing major Mercedes Allen.

Oftentimes, the best way to unwind is simply to stay at home. However, that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice having a good time. For students who choose this route, whether you’re living off campus or in a dorm, sometimes the best nights involve getting creative in a kitchen, blasting your favorite music or having a movie or game night with the people closest to you. So, turn on Netflix, or head down to the nearest Red Box and stay in for a night of binge-watching good times.

The life of a student at Western Oregon University is typically a very busy and scheduled one. When it’s finally the weekend, it’s important to remember to make time for yourself. With all of the small town charm Monmouth provides, that perfect, relaxing weekend is right in the palm of your hands — take advantage of it.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

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Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

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