Mount Hood

Strawberry oatmeal bar recipe

Rylie Horrall |  Lifestyle Editor

Granola bars and breakfast bars can be a quick option for a snack throughout the day, or as a small meal in the morning. In addition, making them at home can be a fun activity to do by oneself or with others.

STRAWBERRY OATMEAL BARS

Start to finish: 55 minutes

Servings: 16 bars

1 cup old fashioned oats

¾ cup white whole wheat flour (all-purpose flour can substitute)

⅓ cup light brown sugar

¼ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

6 tablespoons melted, unsalted butter (coconut oil can substitute)

2 cups small-diced strawberries (about 10 ounces divided)

1 teaspoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

OPTIONAL VANILLA GLAZE

½ cup sifted powdered sugar

½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 tablespoon milk

 

Preheat the oven to 375° F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper so that the paper overhangs two sides like handles.

In a medium bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, ginger and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it forms clumps and the dry ingredients are evenly moistened. Set aside a ½ cup of the crumble mixture, then press the rest into an even layer in the bottom of the prepared pan.

Scatter half of the strawberries over the crust. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the top, then sprinkle on the lemon juice and ½ tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Scatter on the remaining berries, then the remaining ½ tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle the reserved crumbs evenly over the top, but know that some of the fruit will show.

Bake the bars for 35 to 40 minutes, until the fruit is bubbly and the crumb topping smells toasty and looks golden. Place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely; the process can be sped up by placing it in the refrigerator.

While the bars cool, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, briskly whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla and milk until smooth. Feel free to add more milk if a thinner consistency is desired. Using the parchment-paper handles, lift the bars from the pan. Drizzle with glaze, slice and serve.

 

Recipe from wellplated.com

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Photo by Rylie Horrall

Eateries that are currently open with limitations

Rylie Horrall |  Lifestyle Editor

With the world currently at odds with COVID-19, many businesses have unfortunately had to close their doors or, on a lighter note, had to modify the way they operate. In the Indy-Mo area, there have been multiple restaurants that have altered their normal routines, changing from dine-in to takeout and delivery only.

In terms of fast food franchises, the ones in the surrounding area have merely taken away the dine-in option previously offered, but continue to provide through their drive-thrus. Dairy Queen, McDonald’s, Carl’s Jr., KFC and Subway are all continuing to provide service without allowing customers to sit-in. Many have even gone to lengths such as taping off their tables so customers that walk in to order are aware that dine-in is still not available. Burgerville and KFC have also given the option for delivery for the time being.

Nearby pizza establishments — Figaro’s, Papa Murphy’s, Domino’s, Mendi’s, Little Caesars and Yeasty Beasty — have mostly retained their same delivery and takeout options prior to the pandemic, however, Yeasty Beasty has since taken away the option to dine inside. The other businesses didn’t have buildings where customers could eat inside, so there wasn’t a need to change in that aspect.

In regards to food trucks, many have taken away the dining areas that used to surround the space around the trucks. Tucky’s and Lonney’s Lunch Wagon no longer have their respective picnic tables and tents, but still offer food for pick-up and takeout. Many have even taken to expanding their online ordering — like The Donut Bar and Tucky’s — so customers don’t have to linger longer while waiting for their meals.

Fan favorite restaurants near the university — Sing Fay, Momiji’s, Yang’s Teriyaki, Koyote’s, Urban Deli, Casa Burrito — have also taken away their dine-in options. While Momiji’s now offers delivery, the other restaurants have stuck with takeout as their sole method of customer interaction.

A handful of eateries have unfortunately had to close their doors completely, some even permanently, such as Main Street Pub and Eatery ⏤ which closed due to additional factors as well. Nevertheless, students living in the area still have a chance to grab food from some of their favorite places amidst the chaos of a pandemic.

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Social events turned virtual

Rylie Horrall |  Lifestyle Editor

Our current pandemic situation has affected how numerous people go about their lives; some can’t go to their favorite restaurants, take a night out with a loved one or friends or even hold a birthday party during this time of self-isolation. In this day and age, most have technology that enables us to stay in contact with those we hold dear, even if it isn’t the same as seeing them in person. This doesn’t change the fact that get-togethers are currently inadvisable; however, those in the household can still celebrate birthdays and accomplishments.

While it’s advised to stay in and limit contact with others, there isn’t any ‘rule’ saying that festivities can’t happen with people already living in the same household. In regards to birthday celebrations, people can still make decorations and cook food — which can be a fun activity to participate in. Maybe it isn’t the same as going out like someone could have previously planned, but, it doesn’t mean it has to be skipped altogether.

For someone who wants to ‘party’ or just socialize with others not in their household, there are many video chatting applications that can be utilized for more than solely conversation. As an example, Discord can be used for video and audio calls, and gaming software can be displayed so everyone can participate. To continue with the party theme, JackBox Party can be played remotely for everyone, as long as the screen is visible, leading to an enjoyable time similar to playing in person. Netflix Party and the website rabb.it are options for groups who want to watch movies or TV shows together; the former allows all users to sync up their devices so everyone can view at the same time, while the latter depends on the ‘host,’ or whoever has control of the room.

Right now, the idea of going out freely without concern for COVID-19 may seem bleak, and staying cooped up without friends could be disheartening. Birthdays are still coming and going, but plans have to be altered or cancelled for safety and health reasons. Nevertheless, some enjoyment can be achieved through celebration with roommates or virtual contact with friends afar.

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Williams takes the stay-at-home order to create more art

Never Retallack |  Entertainment Editor

Hayley Williams, the frontwoman for the punk-rock band Paramore, released two parts of  “Petals for Armor” in February and March and now the final album is ready.

“Petals for Armor” is a 15-song creation of Williams’ diary; the vulnerability and rawness in each song has shocked fans.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Williams commented on the album that “I needed these songs to help me get to a place where I could name my shame, take inventory of emotional scars, true friends, awful coping mechanisms and discover what I desire for my life.”

Her most recent EP released for the album was the song “Dead Horse,” an emotional rollercoaster of her romantic life. The song is powerful and confronts issues of infidelity and expectations, featuring several different versions of herself throughout the song to show her metaphorical growth and changes.

The album is a journey through her emotions, dealing with unmanaged rage in “Simmer” and “Leave it Alone,” and questioning the health of her relationships in “Why We Ever,” “Taken” and “Dead Horse.”

This album is vastly different from her music with Paramore; she takes risks with more funky and abstract beats that showcase her gentle vocals and emotions.  

The last song on the album, “Crystal Clear,” is one of my favorites because it is the perfect end to her journey. She talks about broken trust and anger — how she would never be so naive again —  and the song simply ends with her saying “I won’t give into the fear. It’s a feeling. I’m still right here.” This powerful line shows that she can work through her fear and continue on in her life, taking risks and proving others wrong.

Overall, the album was a journey for Williams and listeners; the songs have captivating musicality and intense lyrics that make the album a must listen.

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of petalsforarmor.com

Film Festivals have never been so easy to access

Never Retallack |  Entertainment Editor

In a time where art, literature and film are less accessible in person, it’s time to look at what is still available online. 

Film festivals are huge events that happen worldwide, but with the shifting times, there are several events that will be happening on smaller screens this year.

 

May 29 to June 7: The Brooklyn Film Festival is having their 23rd film festival. With over 148 films coming in from each continent, they will be fighting for the “Grand Chameleon” and 28 other awards offered. Due to the current situation, they will be allowing free access through their website: https://www.brooklynfilmfestival.org/?gclid=CjwKCAjw7-P1BRA2EiwAXoPWAxDccLm_-225G_0A-l7Lgz_OT4M0dDm_1nAU6-OyapTo93KfRFwDLxoCd3YQAvD_BwE

 

May 22 to June 14: The Ashland Independent Film Festival would be holding its 19 year in person festival, but due to safety precautions, they plan to move online. Over 24 days, there will be 30 featurette films and over 108 short films. More information can be found on their website:

https://filmfestivalflix.com/festival/aiff/#.XqslBqhKjct

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Club Sports Coaches of the year; Arias and Sato

Hannah Greene |  Sports Editor

“A coach is someone who can give correction without resentment,” – Coach John Wooden

This year, along with our Rookies and Players of the Year, The Western Howl presents the Club Sports Coaches of the Year. 

 

Male Coach of the Year

Jorge Arias

As a volunteer coach, Arias not only invested his time, but also his passion for the sport. Arias was able to bring the team together and create a solidified unit — leading the team to the All Conference Title. This was Arias’ first year coaching a University Club Sports team ever, adapting each day and always putting forth his dedication. 

“We would love for this coach to be recognized for all the hard work he has done for our soccer community here (at Western),” said the President of the Men’s Club Soccer team, Juan Perez.

 

Female Coach of the Year

Jennifer Sato

Sato stepped onto the pitch ready to educate and get the team to the championships. Sato has shown her commitment to the team and each individual player, motivating and encouraging the team to always improve, while also pushing them to reach new heights. Due to the COVID-19 virus, the Women’s Rugby team was unable to compete in this year’s championships; however, this only drives the team’s determination for next year, ready to do what Coach Sato directs. “Sato has done an excellent job as a coach and I look forward to seeing the impact she will have on next year’s team,” said President of the Women’s Rugby team, Nelly Blancas.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of George Arias

Photo by Hannah Greene

Leading by example, Club Sports Players of the Year

Hannah Greene |  Sports Editor

Following the Rookies of the Year, The Western Howl presents the Club Players of the Year — voted on by you, the fans, teammates, coaches, the Assistant Club Sports Director and the Club Sports Supervisor. Though there are many great and recognizable athletes among us, these two earned every part of this acknowledgement. Below are the two Club Sports Players of the Year.

 

Men’s Rugby

Trever Kahunahana 

Junior

3rd year on the team

Kahunahana was the team captain and led by example — always putting in the extra hours whether at the gym or on the field on off days. He continued to push his teammates alongside him. As a team captain, he represented the core values of Men’s Rugby and made an impact in every second he played. Kahunahana, even injured, was a force to be reckoned with — proving that size truly does not matter.

Kahunahana was dedicated, with a solid work ethic that showed on the pitch, never allowing anything or anyone to get in his way. Along with his dedication, he also showed commitment to his teammates, creating a stronghold that was unbreakable 

Kahunahana was not only recognized as captain and a strong component on the team, but he also received the 1st team all-conference Northwest Collegiate Rugby Conference, NCRC.

 

Women’s Soccer

Kawehi Taniguchi

Senior

2nd year on the team

Taniguchi brought her A-game every second — being one of the most consistent players on the team. Her creativity, passing accuracy and shooting ability made her a dominant figure, not only in the midfield, but also as a starting player in every lineup. Taniguchi is a highly technical player with the ability to do the unexpected. Her first touch and dribbling ability created more possession and drive for the team — which in turn produced opportunities for herself and teammates to shoot on goal. Taniguchi has a high soccer IQ on and off the field, as well as versatility — proving she can play any position. Her spirit and intensity were a driving force behind the numerous wins that the Women’s Club Soccer team were able to attain.

Taniguchi is a hard worker with great determination, displayed during practices and games. She is a natural leader that supported her teammates and pushed them every step of the match.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Photo by Hannah Greene

Photo courtesy of Matthew Texter