2019 – Page 22 – The Western Howl

Sage Kiernan-Sherrow | News Editor

Western Oregon University’s campus has officially expanded into Salem after the WOU Board of Trustees unanimously voted to purchase the historical downtown Vick building on Sept. 11. This $2.735 million decision established Western as the only public university in Oregon with face-to-face instruction in the state capitol and will inaugurate two new degree programs unique to the Salem campus: a M.A in Organizational Leadership and an A.B in Liberal Studies.

In the FAQ section of the statement issued by President Fuller on Sept. 13, the purpose of Western’s expansion “reflects (Western’s) mission of delivering transformative education and personalized service in our region, including providing convenient and flexible degree programs for working adults where they are.”

WOU:Salem, as the campus is being referred to, is designed to provide accessibility to the numerous amounts of working and commuting students from the Salem area, with many classes strategically being offered during the evening in an attempt to accommodate working students’s busy schedules.

One such Tuesday evening hybrid class is being taught by Dr. Lars Söderlund, who called it “a thrill and an honor to teach at an institution where it feels that our commuting and non-traditional students can benefit from hybrid-format classes which maximize both time in the classroom and time spent reflecting.” Dr. Söderlund hopes that his Professional Editing class will “be more easily connectable to student’s professional lives.”

Renovations are still being completed at the Vick building which is set to open in 2020; in the meantime, Western students with Salem-based classes like Dr. Söderlund’s on their fall schedules can expect to continue to receive instruction at the Willamette Education Service District (WESD) Marion Center. Until the Vick building’s official opening, preview photos of the space as well as additional updates can be found on Western’s various social media platforms.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home »

Western welcomes the class of 2023 with annual New Student Week events

Compiled by Sage Kiernan-Sherrow and Caity Healy

Following move-in day for returning and new students, which occurred on Sunday, Sept. 22, Western began New Student Week, a tradition focused on welcoming students through numerous informational presentations, promotions from student organizations and entertaining events. This week began with this year’s convocation speaker, Monti Washington, inspiring students by detailing how he faced life’s obstacles and ended with new students signing their names in a sidewalk they will likely be strutting along for the next four years.

Welcome to Monmouth & Independence Celebration: On Tuesday, Sept. 24, businesses from all around the Monmouth-Indy area headed to Western to have the opportunity to get to know the new students. With Independence Cinema passing out their old posters, Jack’s Pub grilling up some grub and prizes being won everywhere, no student left empty-handed.

Student Organizations & Activities Fair: The quickest way to get to know the clubs and organizations on campus, this Wednesday, Sept. 25 event was a hit in The Grove. Students had an opportunity to walk around and see all that Western has to offer outside of classes, while meeting some of the students who potentially have similar interests to them.

WUC Premiere Night: As the New Student Week website notes, “Werner University Center’s biggest night” occurred on Thursday, Sept. 26. With every room in the building hosting different events, students could go through and get stamps, which they could later trade in for a bingo card to win some prizes. With free photobooths, caricatures, food and merch, students were able to get to know the WUC while having a good time.

New Student Sunrise Breakfast and the Signing of New Student Week Walk: While the sunrise (and of course, free breakfast) was a new addition as of just last year, it’s already become a favorite for students, as they were able to do it again on Friday, Sept. 27. Afterwards, the sidewalk signing, a tradition that ages back for decades, was an opportunity for these students to literally make their mark on campus. Painting their names in the classic colors of the Wolves, it was a picture-perfect way to celebrate becoming a student at Western.

Variety Show and Video: Taking to the stage Saturday, Sept. 28, students showcased their various talents in the annual Variety Show. One of Western’s traditional New Student Week events, the Variety Show allows students to display a diverse line up of talents, from dancing to singing a song. At the end of the student performances, PLUS Team showcased a little something of their own. Full of highlights and bloopers from the week, the New Student Week video made its premiere showing before being released to Western’s YouTube channel.

Contact the authors at howlnews@wou.edu and howlmanagingeditor@wou.edu

The Western Howl

Home »

This week in completely made up horoscopes

[fruitful_tabs type=”accordion” width=”100%” fit=”false”]

[fruitful_tab title=”Aries 3/21-4/19″] Ooouh, Aries, all of your new pens are so nice. The stars wonder how long it’ll take this year before you lose them all.

[/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Taurus 4/20-5/20″] With the start of a new month and a new school year, it may seem like a lot has filled your plate fast; your stubborn attitude will make everything else that much more difficult. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Gemini 5/21-6/20″] We all know you’re going to show up to class and make professors think you’re a good student, just so they don’t see your other (unproductive/procrastinating) side. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Cancer 6/21-7/22″] Don’t worry, you aren’t the only one having a breakdown one the first day of classes. Just keep down the crying and your day should go smooth. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Leo 7/23-8/22″] This is the time for you Leo to really outgrow the expectations you have for yourself; you CAN eat that pint of ice cream and finish an entire season of “Friends” in two days. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Virgo 8/23-9/22″] Hey Virgo, it’s absolutely OK if you add a little more spice than the recipe requires. I see you over there holding the measuring cup under a magnifying glass. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Libra 9/23-10/22″] Oh no, here we go again. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Scorpio 10/23-11/21″] It’s no shocker that people view you the way that you do, because you know you act a certain way. But with where the planet is at, you also know that will cause other things to happen for you. Keep that in mind with the start of the new term. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Sagittarius 11/22-12/21″] LET’S BRING BACK ROLLING BACKPACKS. WE CAN RIDE EACH OTHER’S BACKPACKS AND CREATE A TRAIN [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Capricorn 12/22-1/19″] Make sure you sit at the very front of the class. That way, your professor can hear you loud and clear when you fact check every part of the lesson. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Aquarius 1/20-2/18″] The stars know that you’re excited to be starting classes… oh, it’s the pumpkin spice lattes you’re excited about… hey, at least you’re excited for something, Aquarius. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Pisces 2/19-3/20″] Yo, Pisces. I see you didn’t even clean the old papers out of your backpack from last school year. Or from… two years ago? Three?! You monster. [/fruitful_tab]

[/fruitful_tabs]

The Western Howl

Home »

SOLVE your summer volunteering problem

Cora McClain | Copy Editor

Now that summer has rolled around and class is out, a good bit of relaxation is in order. However, if the extra time might be a bit too boring, then give volunteering a try. From the local library to the community garden, there’s bound to be a plethora of opportunities for volunteering. But if you’re looking to do something a bit bigger than shelving books, perhaps cleaning up your local environment is more up your alley.

It’s easy to say that the earth has a few problems — trying to solve those problems is a bit more challenging. Luckily, there is an organization that makes solving these problems a little easier.

SOLVE is a volunteering opportunity organization that is dedicated to “taking care of Oregon.” On their website, solveoregon.org, there is a simple search engine that allows anyone to search for local volunteer opportunities in beach, city-wide and creek clean-ups as well as invasive plant removal and native tree and shrub planting. The easy-to-use platform also gives you the date and location of the event, and even a contact for the organizer of the event to answer any questions. Often, the volunteers are provided with gloves, safety vests, trash bags and even lunch on-site.

So, if you decide that you want to take an afternoon to help out the environment, try SOLVE and see if there are any clean ups in your area. If not, any interested person could also organize a clean-up through SOLVE’s site. Visit solveoregon.org/create-your-own-event to learn more.

Contact the author at howlcopyeditor@wou.edu

Photo by Cora McClain

The Western Howl

Home »

Four variations on classic s’mores

Rebecca Meyers | Lifestyle Editor

Summer isn’t truly complete without a few s’mores. This classic treat is easy to make, delicious, and is often associated with great memories made around campfires. However, sometimes even old favorites can use a new and interesting twist. Here are a few different ways to mix up your s’mores this summer.

The mixed berry s’more: I’m a believer that chocolate and berries go great together, so why not throw a few into some s’mores? You know, in case you need something that screams “summer” even louder than this campfire tradition.

The peanut butter s’more: Most of us know someone who’s a sucker for peanut butter and chocolate, and if you don’t, that person may be you. If so, this simple twist of spreading a good chunky peanut butter on the graham crackers is one you might enjoy.

The cookie sandwich s’more: Whether your favorite cookie is Oreo or chocolate chip, swapping the classic graham crackers with even more sugary goodness is one way to make your s’mores unique.

The s’more “cobbler”: Weather not cooperating? Having trouble finding a suitable place for a campfire? Fortunately, this alternative version of s’mores can be done with an oven by layering graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallows in a lasagna or pie pan and heating until the marshmallows are toasty and melted.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Photo by Rebecca Meyers

The Western Howl

Home »

“Godzilla: King of the Monsters” review

Chrys Weedon | Entertainment Editor

On May 31, 2019, everyone’s favorite titan made a return in “Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” a sequel to the 2014 movie “Godzilla.” The 34th installment in the “Godzilla” franchise, although not the best in its history, satisfies all of this reviewer’s cravings for more Godzilla screen time and big monsters fighting each other.

The newest “Godzilla” film follows the cryptozoologist organization “Monarch,” and their fight against a group of eco-terrorists planning to awaken all of the titans to bring a natural balance back to the world. 2019 really does love villains who want to restore “natural balance” to the universe, doesn’t it?

While “Godzilla: King of Monsters” introduces a menagerie of new characters, it does bring back one of the most iconic faces from the last movie: Dr. Ishiro Serizawa. Director Michael Dougherty and writers Zach Shields and Max Borenstein included magnificent references to Dr. Serizawa’s backstory, and they didn’t deny audiences any of his critical attitudes toward humanity. Not only that, but they give Serizawa one of the most touching scenes in the movie, where he finally comes face-to-face with the beast of his affection, Godzilla themself. He literally touches the face of God(zilla).

Some movie critics think they’re too good for “Godzilla.” “The plot line is full of holes,” they say, “focus more on the human characters, there’s too much fighting,” they complain. They’re snobs, the lot of them. I would argue that the focus on Godzilla’s fight against Ghidorah and the other titans is a marked improvement from the movie’s prequel. The 2014 movie focused far too much on a romance story, of all things. I’m pretty sure no one is watching “Godzilla” for a love story, unless it’s the romance between Godzilla and Mothra, thank you very much.

All in all, “Godzilla: King of the Monsters” satisfies. There’s lots of fighting and wonderful connections to Godzilla lore. I will admit, the characters did tend to fall flat and the plot lines were convenient, but that’s keeping with the style of the “Godzilla” franchise. This audience member isn’t complaining.

Overall rating: I would strongly recommend this film.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of warnerbros.com

The Western Howl

Home »

Beat the heat with these local concerts

Chrys Weedon | Entertainment Editor

Summer in a small town can often get lonely and boring — especially in a college town, when everyone has gone back to their hometowns for the season.

But the good news is, you can break the summer monotony with the public summer events the cities of Monmouth and Independence provide for their citizens, detailed below.

Monmouth:

Every summer, Monmouth has a summer “music in the park” series. Each Wednesday, starting July 10 and ending Aug. 28, a different band will be playing in the Main Street Park Amphitheater. All concerts begin at 6:30 p.m., and the bands cover a wide variety of genres. Attendance is free, and wine, beer and food will be available. Pets are discouraged.

July 10: Ted Vaughn Blues Band

Genre: Blues

July 17: Brass Roots Movement

Genre: New Orleans jazz

July 24: Garcia Birthday Band

Genre: Grateful Dead tribute

July 31: Midnight Serenaders

Genre: Swing

Aug. 7: Coming Up Threes

Genre: Celtic

Aug. 14: Cascade Crescendo

Genre: Jamgrass

Aug. 21: Tezeta Band

Genre: Ethiopian Funk

Aug. 28: The Resolectrics

Genre: Rock

More information can be found at www.ci.monmouth.or.us under the “things to see and do” tab.

Independence:

The Independence Amphitheater in Riverview Park will be the location of the Independence “River’s Edge Summer Series,” a lineup of concerts and movie showings free to the public. Opening bands will begin at 6:30 p.m. and headliners at 8:30 p.m. starting on July 12 and occuring every Friday until Aug. 16. Movie showings will occur every Thursday starting on July 11 and lasting until Aug. 15. Movies in July will begin at 9:45 p.m. and movies in August will begin at 8:30 p.m.

Concerts (headliners):

July 12: Erotic City

Genre: Prince tribute band

July 19: Shoot to Thrill

Genre: AC/DC tribute band

July 26: Appetite for Deception

Genre: Guns & Roses tribute band

Aug. 2: Who’s Bad

Genre: Michael Jackson tribute band

Aug. 9: Ty Curtis

Genre: Blues-rock band

Aug. 16: Triple Shot

Genre: Heart, Pat Benatar, and Bad Company tribute band

Movies:

July 11: “Bumblebee”

July 18: “Wreck It Ralph 2”

July 25: “Aquaman”

Aug. 1: “Signs”

Aug. 8: “Back to the Future”

Aug. 15: “Captain Marvel”

More information can be found at www.independenceamphitheater.com.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
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.

Accessibility Public Records Privacy Student Consumer Information

WOU prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by WOU.

WOU’s campus expansion into Salem establishes new degree programs and ease of accessibility

Western welcomes the class of 2023 with annual New Student Week events

This week in completely made up horoscopes

SOLVE your summer volunteering problem

Four variations on classic s’mores

“Godzilla: King of the Monsters” review

Beat the heat with these local concerts

Monmouth:

Independence:

Tools

Resources