Mount Hood

The Oregon Student Association closes

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

The Oregon Student Association, known as OSA, announced Oct. 9 that the organization would be formally closing its doors and suspending all action. The organization acted as a student-led nonprofit advocacy group, well-known across the state for its role in making positive changes in colleges across the state of Oregon. OSA’s website described the organization as a place to “bring students together to build collective power, develop their professional political skills and achieve concrete wings for students on the issues they care about. Through legislative advocacy and grassroots organizing, OSA is working towards a future where a quality, equitable, debt-free higher education is affordable and accessible for ALL Oregonians.”

OSA brought student access to incidental fees to fruition when students passed a bill in Oregon to grant students funding and control over their college experiences. In turn, student governments were then able to collaborate directly with their universities and represent student voices. 

Student leaders from the University of Oregon joined leaders from Oregon State University and Southern Oregon University to further explore Statewide Student Associations. They then “loaded into a van and hit the road” according to OSA’s historical page, spreading ideas about gathering funding for an organization to be founded, tied in directly with the legislature protecting higher education in the state of Oregon.

In 1975, it was given a name — the Oregon Student Association — and within one year, all public universities joined OSA. A board of governors was established and more members were instated to train students in legislative engagement and advocate on behalf of students.

This last year alone, OSA secured the Semiconductor Talent Fund and TRUs+ Behavioral Health Package and also passed SB 1502: School Board Transparency Bill, SB 1596: Right to Repair, SB 1552: Senate Education Omnibus and other higher education investments. TRUs+ Behavioral Health Package will fund multiple other universities alongside Western to create a higher capacity for licensed behavioral health workers, while the school board transparency bill will require posted live streams for governing body meetings of school districts, education service districts, community college districts and public universities.

In past years, OSA has passed bills protecting and supporting university students who experienced sexual violence, increased statewide access to job training, increased education access for incarcerated students, provided free menstrual products on campuses, allocated $19 million to fund members of Oregon Native tribes in higher education and many more.

The announcement Wednesday, Oct. 9, was posted to OSA’s website as well as social media. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of the Oregon Student Association after almost 50 years of student-led advocacy across the state. Since 1975, OSA has empowered future leaders and unified students across Oregon to build collective power to advocate for policies that create a more equitable and accessible higher education system,” it stated. “OSA has worked tirelessly for decades to ensure that the voices and rights of students were heard and respected at every level of decision-making.”

It followed after years of reports that OSA struggled financially and structurally, with tax documents from 2023 claiming a negative net worth of more than $400,000. Nick Keough, OSA’s legislative director, explained that over time, OSA received less and less per year from universities tied with the organization. Each university and college had previously decided what money to allocate toward OSA annually, but as costs rose in the country, money became essential elsewhere.

“This was an unbelievably difficult decision,” said Keough. “This decision is ultimately about recognizing recent constraints we faced and being realistic about the organization’s sustainability.”

Last summer, central leader and Executive Director Joseph Cruz and staff member José Zapata were unfortunately involved in a dangerous car accident that left Cruz critically injured with a long road to recovery and took the life of Zapata.

“The tragic loss of a staff member and the injury of our executive director have just made it incredibly cumbersome to continue operating,” said Keough.

OSA thanked their staff, coalition partners and student leaders in their announcement, expressing that it had been an honor to serve Oregon’s students. “We leave behind not just a legacy, but a call to action. To every student, organizer and advocate; your voice matters, and your work is needed… The fight for a better future for all students is far from over,” OSA stated on their Instagram.

The majority of the responses were devastated, with many commenters personally tied to OSA and remembering their long history of advocacy.

“It will be a different world without OSA’s presence, but I know the contributions it made have inspired us all,” wrote commenter Finn Jacobson from the University of Oregon. “Thank you all for your service.”

“OSA had such an impact and gave folks a truly amazing opportunity to grow and make change. Best wishes,” said Eliott Coda.

Another commenter, Courtney Veronnaeu, described her time with OSA. “OSA is where I learned the power of and how to organize the community to advance racial, gender and economic justice. So grateful for my time on staff and for the many lasting and meaningful friendships that began there.”

Alexandra Flores-Quilty, from Oregon, said: “Heartbreaking to hear. I appreciate the OSA leaders who have been supporting the (organization) during these last few difficult years.”

Portland-based supporter, Elona Wilson, expressed their admiration. “I am constantly inspired by the work (you all) have done, the people you have scaffolded and your deep commitment to Oregon’s students. 50 years of badass change is something all OSA alumni and current students should be incredibly proud of. You will be missed, but know that your legacy will continue to inspire movements far past this moment. Thank you.”

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu.

Declining literacy in America

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

All over the nation, schools have seen a decline in literacy rates among students, but Oregon has seen the steadiest decline since the COVID-19 pandemic. School closures and remote learning due to the pandemic made learning to read much more difficult for students, especially among disadvantaged youth.

In a 2023 study done among students in the Beaverton School District, 61% of third graders and 54% of seventh graders were found to be below proficient in reading. Nationwide only 46% of students were found to be proficient in reading.

Neurological research from more than 20 years ago about the proper way to teach children to read has garnered more attention recently, but the study suggests schools’ failure to teach reading using scientifically backed methods is a key factor for low test scores. 

This year’s scores on the only achievement test to represent a sample of students from every state also showed dismal results: only one of every three eighth-graders was proficient in reading. However, there have been plenty of issues found within Oregon’s reading curriculum that might be at fault for these low test scores.

“There isn’t a single reason for declining literacy rates but rather many factors contributing to it,” said Western education professor Tiffany K. Smith. “The assessments that are used to determine students’ levels of literacy are simply snapshots. They often do not reflect students’ actual literacy abilities. For example, they are timed (for consistency) and often students need more processing time. Sometimes students blow through the assessment just to get it over with. Sometimes students don’t understand directions or the questions and it can’t be further explained by the test administrator.”  

For one, the state’s standards have not been revised since 2019, meaning the standards are based on pre-pandemic learning. Secondly, the Common Core Standards, which were adopted by 41 states and four territories in 2010, focus mostly on what students need to know to be prepared for college. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of October 2023, only 61.4% of recent graduates were enrolled either part-time or full-time at a two-year or four-year university. Yet schools in Oregon continue to push the Common Core Standards in classrooms and schools. 

Even worse, Common Core Standards don’t follow the curriculum that teachers are supposed to use in their classrooms, government-appointed education experts do, and in Oregon, every one of the 197 school districts is given the ability to adopt their own core curriculum.

The Oregon Department of Education — ODE — has a list of approved curricula for school districts to adopt for teaching reading and writing. Districts who wish to deviate from this list must ensure that they choose a curriculum that includes the teaching of phonics and phonemic awareness, but face no penalty if they deviate from the ODE list and are not required to tell the state they have done so.

Many parents point the blame at the 2001 No Child Left Behind Act, or NCLB, which placed consequences on schools based on students’ standardized testing scores. A study that followed a 1998-1999 kindergarten class through completion of high school found that the enactment of NCLB and the Every Student Succeeds Act that followed it have had an impact on children’s socioemotional outcomes. 

The study, which was finally published in 2017, found that the NCLB had a negative impact on students’ test-taking anxiety, which has only worsened recently. 

However, there is both good and bad news for the state of student literacy. In an executive report — The State of the American Student: Fall 2024 — published by Arizona State University’s Teachers College, statistics and a path forward were found, which teachers and school districts could follow to improve student literacy. 

The good news is that students and teachers are showing signs of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a 30-state survey, students have regained about a third of their pandemic-era learning losses and a quarter of their reading. School districts are pushing for more tutoring, high-quality curricula and extended learning times, in an effort for them to become more permanent in learning. 

The bad news is that recovery is slow and uneven among students of different backgrounds and school districts. While there has been an upward trend in the recovery that students have experienced, they are not even halfway to a full academic recovery. For students with little time left in the K-12 system, this slow rate of academic recovery is bad news. But even the so-called “COVID Babies” are entering kindergarten less prepared for grade-level learning than pre-pandemic students. 

Additionally, eight out of ten teachers say they find teaching overwhelming and have complained about inadequate support in the classroom. Lack of funding for districts and chronic absenteeism — defined as students missing at least 10% of school days — has also worsened these problems. 

One of the most important factors emerging from the pandemic was parents being unprepared to become educators for their children. Parents of students with disabilities found it difficult to provide their children with the proper services, and disadvantaged students often lacked the proper technology to be able to access online learning. 

Some states are searching for solutions to combat declining literacy and teacher fatigue. In Salem, Massachusetts, one middle school reduced absenteeism and increased achievement by making school more engaging and fun with more field trips, hands-on learning opportunities and personalized instruction. One student said, “It’s actually making me excited to go to 

school. It’s just like a happier version of school.”

The State of the American Student: Fall 2024 recommends prioritizing relationships between teachers and students, having a partnership with parents that is central to the education system and ensuring that the best strategies reach the children who need them. The report also suggests school districts get involved with policymakers and advocates to help hold institutions accountable for meeting their obligations to all students — especially those who are most vulnerable. 

“We are still seeing the effects of COVID and long-term stress and trauma on students and their families,” Smith said. “This prolonged stress and trauma has research-based effects on literacy rates.”

The first goal for teachers and school administrators is to reengage students and parents in learning. From there, they will have the ability to gain more post-pandemic academic recovery, especially in the areas of mathematics and literacy. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Western’s community garden

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

Located on campus near Rice Auditorium, behind the in-progress new Student Success Center building, a community garden grows despite being surrounded by construction. Currently, it is being taken care of solely by Western alumnus Rick Tingle. The garden consists of several compost piles, strawberries, potatoes, raspberries, squash and many other fruits and vegetables. It also is home to a satellite dish, which is in the process of being dismantled. 

Although the garden is in a fenced-off area, Tingle planted raspberries along the fence specifically for students to graze. “It used to be that people knew the garden was here only by coming down this trail and they would come by and pick the raspberries,” he said. Eventually, he wants the fence to be covered with additional plants, such as blueberries and cherry tomatoes. 

“Every one of these plants I started on my balcony… I got to know every one of these plants, and I’ve watered them by hand every morning since late winter and early spring,” Tingle said. 

His hard work in the garden was coming to fruition, with cucumbers, tomatoes and Japanese eggplant being harvested.

Tingle graduated in the spring of 2024 from Western with a Master of Science in Criminal Justice: Justice Studies. “Before that, here at (Western), I got my bachelor’s of anthropology and psychology and all of those things just dance. They interact,” he said. Before graduating with his master’s degree, Tingle wrote a research paper about how community gardens could help solve food inequity problems on college campuses — part of the reason why Tingle remains at Western, although no longer a student.

“I don’t mind being one of those invisible people doing the hard work in the garden. I just want the results of the hard work to be visible and effective,” Tingle wrote in a document. He is working toward the goal of “providing healthy foods for hungry people” at Western. 

Tingle has been in the community garden every single day for two years. Even when the heat rose to 100 degrees during the summer, he was still planting, watering and keeping up his composting project. 

Last autumn, Tingle began working with Western’s food pantry. Every Tuesday, the food pantry has supplied him with food that they would have otherwise had to throw away. Tingle is given a wide variety of expired or rotten food, such as potatoes, rice, bread and even cupcakes, before adding it to the different compost piles within the garden.

“The strawberries weren’t doing anything. Maybe the soil hadn’t been replenished. And then I got maybe 150 pounds of potatoes,” said Tingle — he ended up crushing the potatoes and mixing them in with the soil. In turn, the strawberries started growing with full force, with a sea of red potatoes growing in between the strawberry plants. 

On sunny days, Tingle covers the compost piles with cardboard to make sure that the compost-eating creatures stay up top. “I’ve trimmed, I’ve pulled all the weeds and I keep it watered along the fence. I use those weeds with the compost,” Tingle said. He also mixes unexpected things like popcorn kernels into the compost. “This is what’s fun to me. It’s like an experimental compost.” Since he expects there to be much more food thrown out because of the start of the school year, Tingle has considered making another row and starting a new composting project altogether.

Ideally, the garden will become a place where students can work, enjoy their hobbies and make connections with other students. In the community garden, students can learn about gardening and composting and also have a space to feel comfortable and partake in Tingle’s “experimental composting.” 

“From my research, one of the key points was that students need to feel comfortable in the garden space and their needs should be considered while planning the layout of the garden,” wrote Tingle. “Students need to interact in an enjoyable, creative atmosphere.” 

“I want to let people know that there is a garden here and that it has been in transition, but we could use help right now beautifying it,” Tingle said. Success has been evident in Tingle taking care of the garden by himself, but he needs help making it accessible and appealing to all students. Any student can volunteer, whether it’s picking weeds, planting, general maintenance or painting the planter boxes.

“The last class that I did was a sustainability class because all of my research, all my findings, for my paper…  I learned about permaculture. And one thing about permaculture is design. It’s a creative design, there’s an aspect that you have to make. The garden needs to be more than just planting and eating vegetables,” said Tingle.

Volunteers could also help make a website for the community garden. “Together we can begin to network and consider methods of a working garden website where people can communicate where help might be needed. The website may also be developed so that students might be able to check for real-time status updates of their plants in the garden,” he wrote. 

If students are interested in helping out in any way or have any questions or suggestions, email Rick Tingle at rtingle18@mail.wou.edu.

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

Millennials vs Gen Z

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Fashion has been a decade-specific vital component of style as generations’ styles and trends evolved. Clothing went from being functional and necessary to becoming a status symbol for designers and high-profile personalities. People dressed more modestly in the ’40s and ’50s, whereas the ’60s and ’70s introduced a new rebellious style of attire that offered more individualism rather than uniformity. The 1980s and 1990s made those designs more distressed and destructive and discovered a method to combine high fashion with more basic and inexpensive apparel. The 2000s were chaotic, but the 2010s and beyond showed potential for consistency. Music has a major effect on fashion, with artists using their outfits to make statements and grand impressions. Hip-hop has been a major contributor to this for decades. Artists like MF Doom, Erika Badou and Nelly have worn accessories representing their individuality and music. Musicians see clothes as a statement about who they are and their uniqueness. 

Millennials were the generation born between 1981 and 1996, with ages currently ranging from 28 to 43. Fashion for millennials has advanced significantly, particularly in streetwear. Brands include Supreme, DCs and Adidas. Musicians in the period, such as Soulja Boy and Avril Lavigne, wore baggy pants with belts and chains, as well as skate shoes like Converse, Vans and DCs. Some notable millennial celebrities who have made fashion statements include Paris Hilton, who has worn items that have sparked trends, such as velvet Juicy Couture tracksuits; Britney Spears and Christina Aguilar. Together they helped popularize the 2000s Y2K look. There’s also Billy Porter, who is known for his outlandish ensembles that make androgynous looks work. Finally, Timothée Chalamet stands out for his powerful but experimental style on the red carpet. Aside from developing music and apparel, all of these superstars grew up in a generation that valued fashion as a vital part of their brand. It’s not surprising that when celebrities and original influencers donned specific apparel, people followed suit. Clothing companies would pick their inventory based on what was popular at the moment, and millennials worldwide would loot the shelves for those tracksuits, Hillary Duff’s new jewelry piece or J.Lo’s perfume.

Now, millennial fashion is bright and trendsetting. 

Generation Z was born between 1997 and 2012, which means their ages range from 12 to 27. Gen Z introduces a new style of fashion onto the scene, where trends have resurrected. In today’s world of rapid fashion and social media, trends come and go quickly. With trends coming and disappearing, it’s tough to pinpoint where Generation Z gets their style. A popular motif is a return to basics, with teenagers and adults now wearing plain-colored clothes and focusing on accessories and layering. There is also an edgy aspect that is prominent in many Generation Z styles, seen with renowned celebrities such as Billie Eilish, who is rather experimental with her attire. She wears masculine style and feminine apparel in a variety of hues that are well-planned and adorned. Emma Chamberlain has also made her YouTube channel the focal point of her fashion offerings with a preference for vintage and modern apparel, which gives her style a nostalgic feel. Lil Nas X is among the most outlandishly dressed celebrities. Nas takes his outfits extremely seriously — they are always well-thought-out and resemble costume designs. Every item of Nas’ clothing tells a narrative, and everything is designed to work together seamlessly. And, of course, Zendaya, who is possibly the Gen Z “queen of fashion” with her seamlessly fierce looks. A fan favorite at the Met Gala, audiences look toward her movie premieres to see what she pulls out of her fabulous bag. She’s a true talent for Gen Z and knows how to be original and unique. For Gen Z, clothing is more of a statement piece in terms of impressions, since it is about adding a specific item to a look rather than the appearance itself. For example, a new trend has been to wear hair bows of every color and size. Gen Z’s clothing preferences are always changing, thus many trends may or may not last, and many people will forget about them. While constant change might be a negative, it also allows Gen Z to experiment and be creative with their wardrobe. Combining complementary colors and accessories opens up a world of options. Generation Z has the potential to recycle vintage items in ways previous generations did not, and much of it is paying off. With the emergence of fast fashion, Generation Z is turning to charity stores and secondhand sites to discover excellent quality things that they can incorporate into their wardrobe — a return to vintage styles with a new perspective.

Overall, every generation has its ups and downs, and everyone will always believe that their generation’s dress was more cool and right for the period. Fortunately, the nicest part about new generations is that they can take a little bit of each generation’s style and trends and either reuse them or even make the decision to let them go altogether. Individuality and culture have never been more widespread in previous generations with everyone having the opportunity to develop their distinctive style. Millennials are responsible for the existence of Generation Z fashion for they did the dirty work of finding what looks good and trendy, and without them, many of the celebrities of this time wouldn’t have such a stance on iconic pieces. Gen Z continues to thrive, so maybe things will change. But until then, this one goes to the millennials.   

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

This week in entirely made up horoscopes…

This signs past life:

Aries: A war leader who forced their way into the front line.

Taurus: Chef of a Mediterranean/Canadian fusion restaurant.

Gemini: Magician who accidentally sets the stage on fire. 

Cancer: A Shark whose pescetarian  

Leo: A motivational speaker who is not so motivating.

Virgo: Chemist who is trying to morph an Oreo and a hotdog.  

Libra: Detective who steals the food from the crime scenes. 

Scorpio: Professional rock thrower.

Sagittarius: Celebrity who said the wrong thing in an interview and got canceled for it.

Capricorn: A black cat named Okra.

Aquarius: An architect who adds pointless elevators to every one-story building.

Pisces: Angry poet who writes about past relationships when they were the problem.  

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Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

Charlie Brown — no scares, just heartfelt Halloween

“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” streaming on Apple TV+

Based on Charles M. Schulz’s “Peanuts” comic strip, the Halloween classic follows Charlie Brown and the gang as they celebrate Halloween and Linus waits for the Great Pumpkin. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” is perfect if one is looking for a cozy fall movie.

“The Addams Family” streaming on Paramount+

The Addams family is the first family of all things dark and creepy, so what better movie to watch for Halloween? With a live severed hand, a butler of unknown origins and two deranged children, anyone who watches this film will feel the Halloween vibes.

Not So Scary — a few scares, but mostly funny

“Scary Movie” franchise streaming on Paramount+

This movie franchise was the introduction of horror movies into the parody genre that was started by British comedy group Monty Python in the 1970s. The films incorporate elements and tropes from different horror movies, blending them to create a parody that is raunchy, ridiculous and funny all at the same time. 

Jumpscares and Chills — The scare factor is higher, but mostly jumpscares

“Cabin in the Woods” streaming on Peacock

“Cabin in the Woods” is right up there on this list with the “Scary Movie” franchise of parody movies; however, this movie takes on more of the traditional horror genre aspects. 

“The Ritual” streaming on Netflix

A true monster movie, this movie makes the audience feel as if they are being watched and hunted by the creature alongside the main characters. Set in the Swedish wilderness, this movie pits distorted pagan beliefs against modern protagonists. 

Heartstopping Horror — the scares are what makes the plot

“The Conjuring Universe” streaming on Max

This nine-movie franchise follows cases that were worked on and researched by Ed and Lorraine Warren, with most of the movies being interconnected in the universe. The movies have a plethora of antagonists, from possessed dolls to demon nuns, sure to terrify viewers.

Leave the Lights on to Sleep — can’t escape the horror, leave the lights on

“Terrifier” franchise streaming on Peacock

Viewer discretion is advised with any of the four movies within the “Terrifier” franchise. “Terrifier 3” was released in theaters Oct. 11 and is currently #1 at the box office. The movies are unrated, and contain heavy amounts of violence and gore, alongside the traditional horror elements of the movie. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice review

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

Content Warning: This article contains spoilers.

The sequel to the 1988 cult classic “Beetlejuice” hit theaters Sep. 6, continuing the story 36 years later. Actors Winona Ryder, Jefferey Jones and Katherine O’Hara reprise their roles as members of the Deetz family, with Michael Keaton returning as the titular character.

Three generations of Deetz return to Winter River in the wake of a tragedy — the passing of Charles Deetz, the family patriarch played by Jones. Lydia, played by Ryder, is still haunted by Beetlejuice, and her life soon turns upside down when her daughter, Astrid, played by Jenna Ortega, opens a portal to the Afterlife. 

Realizing she needs help navigating the Afterlife, Lydia summons Beetlejuice, who is attempting to stay hidden from his soul-sucking ex-wife, Delores, played by Monica Bellucci. 

The film offers 105 minutes of hijinx, camp and a score by Danny Elfman, and in true fashion of its predecessor, Beetlejuice only appears on the screen for a total of 17 minutes, “He’s such a fun character to write, but he’s not the protagonist of the movie,” said writers and producers Miles Millar and Alfred Gough. “It was tricky in terms of keeping the right balance. People love him so much. It’s called ‘Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice’ for a reason, so he needs to be essential to the movie. It makes you think harder about what those scenes are going to be, and what his contribution to the movie is. It feels incredibly satisfying, and like you’ve spent a lot more time with him than you think. That’s the magic trick of that character.”

The film’s reviews, however, vary between a love for the movie and a lamentation of the movie’s length. 

“It takes way too long — nearly an hour of a 105-minute movie — for Beetlejuice’s actual story to emerge and for Keaton to take center stage again,” said ScreenCrush critic Matt Singer. Many fans also felt that Beetlejuice and Delores’ storyline felt tacked on and that the movie could have done without it. 

However, those who loved the movie, like David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter, spoke of “zippy pacing, buoyant energy and a steady stream of laugh-out-loud moments” and how the actors “warm to dizzying lunacy.”“Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” grossed $111 million domestically and $147 million worldwide on its opening weekend, and currently sits number nine on ScreenRant’s Top 10 Grossing Movies of 2024 So Far list, between “Twisters” and “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.”

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Rose retirement

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

One of the most captivating talents in National Basketball Association — NBA — history, Derrick Rose, announced his retirement from basketball Sep. 26, 2024. For the fans who had followed his career from the beginning, this moment spurred a mix of emotions. Rose’s career was tumultuous and demanding, giving fans an example of a relentless determination to overcome obstacles that would have broken most athletes. His decision to retire officially ended the chapter on one of the most valued, yet tragic figures in NBA history.

Derrick Rose’s rise to fame occurred years before he set foot in the NBA. Rose was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago and attended high school at Simeon Career Academy. He led his high school team to two Illinois state championships, which earned him national recognition. His elite athleticism, speed and ability to finish at the rim made him one of the most sought-after prospects in the country.

After high school, Rose gained attention from NBA scouts while playing college basketball at the University of Memphis. He led Memphis to the most wins in National Collegiate Athletic Association — NCAA — history, Memphis’ first number-one ranking and an appearance in the national championship game. This groundbreaking season by Rose allowed him to put his name into the NBA draft, finally fulfilling his dream and beginning the story of his life.

In 2008, Rose was drafted to the Chicago Bulls as the number one overall pick and instantly rose to stardom. His fast-paced play, explosive dunks and top-tier playmaking ability made him a fan favorite. Not only was he the best player on his team, he was arguably the best player in college basketball at the time.

As a rookie, Rose averaged 16.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and even led all rookies in the passing category by racking up 6.3 assists per game. 

After his first year, Rose became an NBA All-Star for three consecutive years. He succeeded on the court and reached his prime midway through his career. In his third season, Rose became the youngest player in NBA history to take home the MVP award, winning at the age of 22. That year, he averaged 25 points and 7.7 assists and also led the Chicago Bulls to the Eastern Conference Finals. Unfortunately, their run was cut short by LeBron James and the Miami Heat’s “Big Three.” 

Sadly, in game one of the 2012 playoffs, Rose tore his ACL in his left knee. This was the season after he won MVP, making the injury even more consequential and mentally taxing on Rose. Rose was then sidelined for the entire 2012-2013 season, and over those next two years, he only played 10 games because of this gruesome injury. Once Rose did return to the court in the 2013-2014 season, fans and players could see that he was not the same player he once was. 

During the 2016 offseason, the Chicago Bulls decided to part ways with Rose, trading him to the New York Knicks for guard Dennis Smith Jr. and a second-round draft pick. This devastated Rose, and his reaction was documented for the public to see. Rose was visibly emotional when he received the news, leading him to break down in front of the cameras. 

Throughout the next couple of seasons, Rose suffered additional knee injuries, including a torn meniscus in his right knee. These setbacks robbed him of the explosive athleticism that had made him such a unique talent. Fans were distraught to see how different of a player Rose had become, and that his body truly couldn’t hold up to the demands of the NBA anymore. 

Throughout Rose’s career, he played for the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Although he never got back to the same playstyle he once had, Rose found a way to adapt as a role player. 

One of the most emotional moments of his career came Oct. 31, 2018, while playing with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Rose scored a career-high 50 points in a victory over the Utah Jazz. Tears filled Rose’s eyes as he was embraced by teammates, visibly emotional in his post-game interview — when asked what this game meant to him, Rose responded, “Everything, man, I worked my ass off.” 

For many, this performance symbolized Rose’s spirit. That night, his refusal to let injuries define him or his career was put on full display.

Statistically, even though his numbers may not reflect the full amount of his impact, Rose finished his career with averages of 17.7 points and 5.3 assists per game. Fortunately, the NBA community understands that Rose’s influence on the game goes beyond stats.

When looking back at his historical career, what-ifs remain: What might have been if Derrick Rose’s body held up? How many championships could the Bulls have won with a healthy Rose leading the charge?

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Fall sports calendar

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

Thursday, Oct. 10

12 p.m. — Men’s Soccer vs. Simon Fraser University B.C.

2:30 p.m. — Women’s Soccer vs. Montana State University Billings

Friday, Oct. 11

8 – 10 p.m. — Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Hoops and Howl

Saturday, Oct. 12

10 a.m. — Women’s Soccer vs. Seattle Pacific University

1 p.m. — Men’s Rugby vs. Oregon State University

1:05 p.m. — Football vs. Eastern New Mexico University

Thursday, Oct. 24

12 p.m. — Men’s Soccer vs. Northwest Nazarene University

7 p.m. — Volleyball vs. the University of Alaska Anchorage

Saturday, Oct. 26

All Day — Women’s+ Rugby, tournament

10 a.m. — Men’s Soccer vs. Montana State University Billings

1 p.m. — Men’s Rugby vs. Washington State University

1:05 p.m. — Football vs. Texas A&M University, Kingsville

7 p.m. — Volleyball vs. the University of Alaska Fairbanks

Sunday, Oct. 27

6 p.m. — Women’s Soccer Club vs. Oregon State University

Thursday, Oct. 31

12 p.m. — Men’s Soccer vs. Saint Martin’s University

2:30 p.m. — Women’s Soccer vs. Western Washington University

Saturday, Nov. 2

10 a.m. — Women’s Soccer vs. Simon Fraser University B.C.

Sunday, Nov. 3

All Day — Cross Country, Stumptown Youth XC Championship

Thursday, Nov. 7

1 p.m. — Women’s Soccer vs. Central Washington University

7 p.m. — Volleyball vs. Saint Martin’s University

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Letter from the editor

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-chief

Western,

Welcome back, or maybe just welcome. Maybe you’ve been reading “The Western Howl” for years, or maybe this is the first issue you’re glancing at — either way, thank you. I’d like to introduce you to my wonderful team, whose names you’ve hopefully seen by now as you flip through, and the culmination of hours of hard work in this issue — our first of the school year — of “The Western Howl.”

We are a hand-crafted newspaper by students, for students. This year, we have more diverse perspectives than ever before, with sports covered by real student athletes, the news reported by an on-campus editor and the paper built by a team of devoted, passionate editors and designers.

This first issue, titled “Goal Season Incoming,” is, as you’ve likely guessed, representative of the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic school year here at Western. We hoped to encapsulate a winning season, not just for our school’s sports teams, but also for all students and staff who may be starting new things or returning to something familiar. We feel you, completely — we are trying to embrace the new and the old, to make something grand out of a historic school paper.

If you haven’t already noticed, the style of our front page is different. The design team and I scoured through nationally recognized publications as well as previous versions of “The Western Howl” — previously titled “The Lamron,” “The Western Star,” “The Journal” and more ridiculous titles — for inspiration. We wanted to draw attention to the heart of the paper — the writing and the creative mind of a designer at work — and offer a preview of what’s inside. A sneak peek, if you will.

So, expect change. Expect design elements you haven’t seen from us before. Look for new names, new faces, new stories, freelancers, photos and more. Maybe you’ll fall in love with our mock horoscopes, or maybe you’ll rock our new word search puzzles on our physical copies. Maybe you’re just interested to see what the college newspaper talks about — if that’s the case, I welcome you with open arms and invite you to stay tuned.

There’s so much we hope to give you this year.

If that sounds good to you, I’m excited to let you know we’re doing more printed issues than ever. This year, expect three printed issues a term, dispersed at campus and off-campus locations for your viewing pleasure. If you’re still dying for something to read, keep checking your email; you’ll catch our digital issues weekly. We have a website too — wou.edu/westernhowl — where we post individual articles and issues.

As a student-led publication, we want to highlight student engagement and involvement. We could not be here, creating this paper, if it wasn’t for not only Western but the community the school has garnered. We are here because you read. We are here because you want to write. We are here because you care. And we’re here to talk about the things that matter and impact you.

Because of that, we’ve opened a “Submit News Tips” section of our website under “Contact Us.” We are so lucky to represent the student community here at Western, but to do that, we must be honest and true. So, please — if you have even the slightest hint of a story idea — I ask that you consider submitting a tip. We have pledged to uphold your voices, and this is our opportunity to pull stories from our readers. Of course, I cannot guarantee that we’ll cover your suggestion, but still, I implore you to submit it regardless.

This year, I have a few goals for the Howl: that the viewers will feel consistently represented and accounted for, the work will be done well and we will be proud of each and every issue that is released and that, just maybe, we will finally make zero calls to Public Campus Safety while at Terry House. No promises on that last one, though.

Thank you for reading this letter from the editor as well as this issue of “The Western Howl.” And, to Public Campus Safety, thank you for rescuing us from an ice storm, taking care of the dead mouse in the bathroom and letting us borrow your drill.

I’m incredibly thankful to spend another year at Western doing what I love — writing and leading — for an amazing, hardworking team of talented individuals.

Sincerely,

Hannah Field

Contact the author at howleditorinchief @mail.wou.edu

Hall gov.

Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor

Every residence hall at Western has a student government. Hall governments are a place for students to go if they want to voice any concerns, ideas or opinions about their hall. Not only that, but in past years, members of hall governments have gotten new supplies for kitchens and lounges. Maddy Wilson, assistant resident advisor for Arbor Park and Landers, stated, “Last year they bought new TVs for both Sequoia and the Landers Lower Lounge, so that’s one big thing that they’ve done.” 

Beyond that, the hall government teams have also put together various programs for students, such as block parties, that help students build stronger communities and bond.

Leadership and Programs Coordinator Connor King-Goehring, stressed the importance of building a community at a smaller level. “Buildings have their own governments to talk to that are their peers, just because it’s easier to talk to someone that you see every day in your hall,” said King-Goehring. “All students have a voice on campus. … (They) don’t need to be involved to have a voice on campus, but getting involved in hall government will really uplift the students’ voices.” King-Goehring emphasizes that all students should be represented, especially since first-year students are required to live on campus unless waived by Western.

Students participating in hall governments can plan events that they believe will be fun and engaging for their peers, like parades. “Last year was our first annual Pride parade,” said King-Goehring — last June, RAs marched for Pride in Monmouth behind a decorated car-float and handed out LGBTQ+ flags to the crowd. It was planned by the combined efforts of RHA and Monmouth Has Pride committee. By participating in hall governments, people can start events, such as involving themselves in Pride as King-Goehring did, and even shape traditions that potentially make life at Western more enriching.

“I am the coordinator of leadership and programs, and so I work on a professional staff level,” said King-Goehring. “I work here full time as my job. My role in hall government is I oversee the Residence Hall Association that sits above the hall government.” 

When King-Goehring was a student at Western, he was involved in hall governments and housing. “I came back professionally advising RHA and Hall gov. because I enjoy housing and advising student leaders.”

King-Goehring placed emphasis on seeing students overcome their fears and gain confidence in their roles — stating that he loves “watching the joy in students and the student leaders’ eyes when they put on these programs and when they’re doing all these amazing things, and being like, ‘That’s because of you. You’re the one who did it.’”

Augusta Edwards, Ackerman’s resident director, understands the importance of having communication between a school’s residents and its staff. “I went to a college that did not have any form of hall government or even a Residence Hall Association, and then I worked at a college where I was working to bring back the Residence Hall Association,” said Edwards. Even though they didn’t have a hall government, they still knew how beneficial it would be to the students. “Hall government’s a great starting point into learning what your voice is and what your voice does.”

This is Edwards’ second year working at Western. As a Resident Director, they help oversee the hall government of Ackerman and watch students gain valuable experience by being in the hall government. For instance, the treasurer will learn budgeting skills and might get to work with vendors for certain programs. “It’s good to be involved. It helps build campus connections and that sense of belonging that WOU has been really working really hard to foster,” said Edwards.

Being a part of a student government does come with some challenges, according to Edwards. “In regards to hall government, we’re bringing all these people in hopefully with these diverse experiences and these new ideas, and how do we get these people to work together? Conflict is inevitable, and so how do we move past conflict and work together as a team?” 

Many of Western’s programs, especially hall governments, face the problem of low student involvement. “Getting students involved” is the hardest part about being an ARA, according to Wilson. Each hall has meetings that are open to all residents of that building, regardless of whether or not the student is a member of the government. “Come to at least one meeting and check it out. It’s not as scary as you think. The people who are there want to be involved, and they’re very friendly, and they want to make friends,” said Wilson. “I would say if people are interested in joining Hall gov … then to reach out to their (resident director) and they can get them connected.”

King-Goehring, along with many other people involved in hall governments, are always striving to put students’ wellbeing first. “It’s volunteer work, and it’s seen as volunteer work,” he said. “A motto that university housing follows is: you’re human first, and then a student and then a student leader.” Staff of hall governments prioritize student health and can accommodate for class schedules, mental health and other obstacles that may come up in students’ lives. 

Elections for hall governments are already underway. However, it is not too late for students to get involved — they can attend a meeting any time throughout the year and voice their thoughts to their peers, or contact their resident director to make their opinions known. “I love being involved and knowing that I’m making a change,” said Wilson.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Events happening this fall

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Indigenous Peoples Day — Each year, Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on the second Monday in October. A celebration will take place in Salem’s Riverfront Park Oct. 14. Indigenous Peoples Day, formerly known as Columbus Day, commemorates the histories, cultures and perspectives of indigenous peoples and their forebears in North America. The event will feature children’s activities, lecturers, dancers and other attractions. The day raises awareness of Indigenous peoples challenges, tenacity and unique customs, fostering understanding and unity across cultures. 

Community Action Harvest Fest — Hosted at the Willamette Heritage Center Oct. 30 from 5 – 9 p.m., the Community Action Harvest Fest is an immersive costume party conducted amidst one of Salem’s most haunted locations, the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill. The event will include beverages, dancing, tarot readings and fundraising for the ARCHES homeless initiative. General admission is $40, and there is the Magic of Harvest Fest’s VIP Dye Room for $100, which includes free drinks and food as well as private access and accommodations. 

Turner Night Market — Turner, Oregon, will have a night market on 5325 Denver St. from 4 – 9 p.m. Oct. 11, with several food vendors, live music, locally made earth items, beer and wine. 

Fazio Farms Corn Maze in the City — Located at the corner of Fazio Way and NE 13th Street, Portland, Oregon. The hours are Monday – Friday from 4 – 8 p.m. and Saturday –- Sunday from 9 – 8 pm. Fazio Farms and Corn Maze offers a fun and immersive corn maze, pumpkin patch, food, drinks and produce tents with fresh corn, pickles, and more. 

Yachats Village Mushroom Festival — The Yachats Mushroom Festival runs from Friday, Oct. 18, to Sunday, Oct. 20. The celebration kicks off on Friday night with a mushroom-themed event in the Yachats Commons, complete with cocktails and nibbles. Restaurants in town will serve mushroom-based dishes gathered from the nearby forests. Every festival walk is led by an experienced mycologist, forest ecologist or naturalist. 

The Great Onion Festival — The Sherwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Great Onion Festival, an annual event at 16155 Southwest Sunset Blvd., Sherwood, Oregon from 9 – 4 p.m. The celebration includes food, crafts, an onion-eating competition and entertainment. The event commemorates Sherwood’s heritage and the significance of farming in America. Some claim the celebration commemorates a time when people went to tremendous efforts to cultivate the land. 

Squishing of The Squash at The Oregon Zoo — The Squishing of the Squash event will take place Oct. 19 – 20 and 26 – 27 at the Portland Zoo. Throughout both weekends, visitors may see the zoo’s enrichment team and keepers give pumpkins and other holiday-themed snacks to the animals. There is also live entertainment, such as magic shows and puppet shows. Adults and children are welcome to dress up for their visit to the zoo. All tickets must be purchased in advance online. 

History and Mystery Dallas — History and Mystery is a paranormal tour in Dallas, Oregon, every Saturday at 6 and 8 p.m. The tour covers the history of these awe-inspiring buildings and discusses local mythology about the spooky behind their walls. Certain long-forgotten structures are open for viewers to get a glimpse into the mystique of downtown Dallas. 

Annual Hood River Valley Harvest Festival — Hood River Harvest Festival runs Oct. 11, from 1 to 6 p.m., Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The valley’s farms and orchards provide food markets, massive displays of apples, pears, squash, raw honey, stunning flowers and local plants and herbs. It also features live music, restaurants and food trucks. Merchants of homemade goods are selling locally made hats, candles, cheese, jams, carpentry, paintings, apparel and jewelry. 

West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta —  Held in the Lake of the Commons, 8325 SW Nyberg St., Tualatin, Oregon, 97062 Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. since 2004, The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta has been one of Oregon’s most well-known fall festivals. People from all across the country have gathered to see costumed individuals race enormous pumpkin boats. Pumpkin racing occurs between 12 and 2 p.m., and food, entertainment, pumpkin bowling and pumpkin golf are also available.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Can’t help fall-ing in love

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Scary Movie Marathon — A scary movie night is an excellent and cost-effective date idea, perfect for snuggling up together while celebrating the spooky season. Setting the perfect environment is essential — dim the lights, make some popcorn and curl up beneath a blanket to establish the tone. Netflix and other streaming services offer a wide range of options, as do free movies on YouTube. 

Make Fall Treats — A terrific bonding activity and something that gets the laughter and conversation going is to try making an online recipe for apple pie, cookies, muffins or hot chocolate to enjoy together while listening to soft music in the background or reminiscing. Date night just got sweeter with some delicious treats and a cozy atmosphere that would make anyone fall in love.

Farmers Market — A farmers market is a pleasant and relaxed fall date idea that is perfect for casual chat. Fall farmers markets are filled with fresh produce such as pumpkins, apples, squash and other seasonal items, making it an ideal time to go exploring together. While walking around the market, one may taste handcrafted items and select fresh ingredients for that evening’s dinner date.. Most also include live music, flower booths or warm beverages like cider, coffee or hot chocolate.   

Pumpkin Patch — Visiting a pumpkin patch is a classic fall date idea that mixes enjoyment, nostalgia and a little adventure. It creates a great setting for enjoying the crisp autumn air while wandering through rows of pumpkins, seeking the perfect one to take home. Pumpkin patches sometimes provide other activities like hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos and marketplaces, making it feel like an outing to the farmers market. 

Haunted House — To truly judge a relationship by its compatibility, a haunted house is an exciting fall date idea that is ideal for getting into the creepy mood of the season. It adds fun and anticipation to any October night, resulting in moments of shared adrenaline and possibly fearful embraces. Whether couples are navigating creepy passages, evading jump scares or laughing off the stress together, the experience triggers a wide range of emotions that can draw two people closer. It may also reveal who is the bravest.

Fall Hikes — Fall is one of the nicest times of year for hiking if one is seeking a date that combines the season’s natural beauty with quality time spent outside. As the weather cools and the leaves turn vivid colors of red, orange and yellow, nature transforms into a beautiful background for a hike. Walking along forest paths or up gorgeous mountains provide opportunities to take in spectacular scenery, allowing people to linger and enjoy the moment together. 

Horseback Riding — Riding through stunning trails adorned with colorful foliage provides a calm getaway from the chaos and rush of daily life, allowing potential couples to connect with nature and each another. It’s an experience that differs from normal date activities by providing a feeling of adventure and originality. 

Paint and Sip — Paint and Sip is a fun, relaxing fall date idea that combines art, drinks and a comfortable setting. Usually, seasonal or autumn-themed paintings can include subjects such as pumpkins, fall foliage or rustic landscapes. While painting, the couple can talk, laugh at one another’s progress or give advice or criticism, making the hobby more enjoyable and participatory. 

Fall Photos — Taking seasonal photos in the park is a romantic and captivating date idea that captures the warmth and beauty of the season, while also generating lasting memories to frame. The internet is a great place to check for inspiration, like creating a ghost photoshoot: grab a sheet, accessories and various props and dress as ghosts for pictures. It’s also an excellent chance to take a relaxing walk, engage in conversation and absorb the natural beauty surrounding you. 

Costume Party — A costume party is a fun and creative fall date idea that encapsulates the whimsical and festive spirit of the spooky season. At the party, enjoy the social side of interacting with others, appreciate their attire and partake in themed activities and music, allowing for the perfect activity to unwind and have fun while completely immersed in the event.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

This week in entirely made up horoscopes

The Signs in a horror movie:

Aries: Decides to argue with the killer instead of trying to escape

Taurus: Dies while leaving their hiding spot to find a snack

Gemini: killed mid-yap

Cancer: frat bro who dresses up as the killer to scare people

Leo: Sacrifices friend to save themself

Virgo: survives, but at what cost?

Libra: The geek that thinks they’re smarter than everyone 

Scorpio: Befriends the killer

Sagittarius: The dumb cheerleader that dies first

Capricorn: The real killer

Aquarius: Survives by making a flamethrower out of perfume and a lighter

Pisces: The supposed killer 

Fall playlist

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

“Being Cool” — Kimya Dawson

“Rhiannon” — Fleetwood Mac

“All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)” — Taylor Swift

“Oh Klahoma” — Jack Stauber

“Motion Sickness” — Phoebe Bridgers

“The Yawning Grave” — Lord Huron

“Whistling Tree” — Haunted Like Human

“Blood Orange Morning Light” — Andrew Montana

“In a Bad Way” — Haunted Like Human

“Tree Hugger” — Kimya Dawson & Antsy Pants

“Eleanor Rigby” — Cody Fry

“Harpy Hare” — Yaelokre

“the fruits” — Paris Paloma

“Tire Swing” — Kimya Dawson

“Massachusetts” — Jensen McRae

“this is me trying – the long pond studio sessions” — Taylor Swift

“Which Witch” — Florence + the Machine

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Here there be. . . dragons?

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

This year saw a resurgence of dragon-based media. Author Rebecca Yarros’ Empyrean series — following Violet Sorrengail at Basgiath War College as she and her friends become dragon riders  — has sold five million copies globally. 

Season two of Max’s “House of the Dragon” — based on author George R.R. Martin’s book “Fire and Blood” — premiered this summer, drawing nearly eight million viewers per episode. Other books that featured dragons, such as “When the Moon Hatched” by Sarah A. Parker and “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon, also sold extremely well this year with the latter selling more than one million copies in English worldwide.

What sets all these stories apart is their depiction and definition of dragons. So, time to answer the question: what defines a dragon?

Traditionally, dragons are flying lizards with at least 11 different subspecies, with the most common being wyverns, basilisks and hydras. Most have the ability to breathe fire or water, two elemental abilities that set apart Western and Eastern dragons. 

However, what defines each subspecies of a dragon is not its abilities but its number of limbs. Commonly, dragons have four legs and two wings, meaning any other number of legs and wings would classify the creature as something other than a dragon. For example, the dragons in “House of the Dragon” have two legs and two wings, which would technically classify them as wyverns instead of dragons, although the show never mentions this.

In interviews, when questioned about his choice to only give his dragons two legs, author George R.R. Martin was quick to defend his creative liberty. “No known species in the natural world has four legs and two wings,” Martin said. In doing this, Martin believes he has brought a more realistic feel to his fantasy world.

The Empyrean series has a more traditional definition of dragons and wyverns, dragons with four legs and wyverns with two, as well as having the wyverns occupy a traditionally evil role. The series even goes so far as to classify the dragons by color and tail types. 

With how popular dragon media is, one can’t help but wonder why they have remained so steadfast in pop culture. 

Professor Emily Zarka at Arizona State University has a few ideas as to why this is. “One enduring reason dragons continue to appear in our world could be because they represent the power of nature,” Zarka said, before adding, “More importantly, I believe, the beauty, terror and power of the dragon evokes mystery and suggests that not all phenomena are easily explained or understood.”

Whether fans agree or disagree on the definition of a dragon, one thing is evident: dragons will always be an important part of Eastern and Western media. The creatures are practically ingrained in the cultures and don’t seem to be leaving anytime soon, especially from the reading community.

The third book in the Empyrean series, “Onyx Storm,” is set to release in Jan. 2025, with copies available for preorder now. “House of the Dragon” has been renewed for another two seasons, with filming for season three starting in early 2025. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Cicadas broods infected with Massospora fungus

Written by: Jaylin Hardin | Sports Editor

In late spring and early summer across the south and midwest, two broods of cicadas, XIX and XIII, will be hatching simultaneously. Cicada broods typically hatch every 13 and 17 years — for brood XIX and brood XIII, respectively — and the last time these broods hatched at the same time was 1803, making this an entomological phenomenon. All seven cicada species will be represented in both broods this year — it won’t be until 2037 that all seven are represented again.

Jason Bittel from the “Washington Post” had the opportunity to sit down with experts on cicada life cycles. 

“It’s pretty spectacular, from the standpoint of a scientist that’s interested in cicadas,” said Matt Kasson, a mycologist at West Virginia University. Mycologists focus on the study of fungi and how they are spread. 

This time around, scientists hope to investigate and uncover the mysteries around a parasitic fungus that affects adult cicadas. The fungus, called Massospora cicadina, affects only the Magicicada species, also known as periodical cicadas because of the broods’ hatching periods.

Infection of the cicadas first occurs when they emerge from their broods; spores attach themselves to their abdomens and begin to grow.  

When the fungus’ spores infect a cicada, its body is flooded with amphetamine and psilocybin, and its lower abdomen along with reproductive organs are replaced with the fungus. The fungus takes on a chalky white appearance, leading scientists to call them “saltshakers of death.” 

The presence of amphetamine and psilocybin in the cicada’s body changes the insects’ behavior. The most common behavior change in cicadas is hypersexuality. Additionally, during the mating cycle of the cicada’s life, infected male cicadas don’t only mate with female cicadas — they mimic the mating patterns of female cicadas so other males will mate with them.  

This pattern of behavior in infected male cicadas causes the fungus to be sexually transmitted, to males and females alike. However, it is less prevalent in females than it is in males. 

“Periodical cicadas have interlocking genitalia. So when they pull apart, guess what happens? Rip. And then there’s a cicada walking around with someone else’s genitals stuck to them,” said Dr. John Cooley, an associate professor in residence of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Connecticut, Hartford, “…and now the cicada that’s infected is busted open.”

While also studying the habits of these infected cicadas, scientists like Kasson and Cooley are hoping to research the use of the fungus in the field of medicine. M. cicadina is used in cultures in China and among New Zealand’s Maori as a traditional medicine for inflammation.

There is a positive side to the emergence of cicada broods, however. Cicada emergences have had ecological benefits, providing an array of protein for predators, as well as boosts in phosphorus and nitrogen for plant life, thanks to trillions of decaying insect bodies.

“If you’re out during this year’s emergence and your dog or toddler happens to gulp down a cicada or three, don’t worry about it,” said Maureen Turcatel, collections manager of insects at the Field Museum in Chicago. “Cicadas can’t bite or sting, and they are perfectly edible.”

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Western’s boil water notice

Written by: Libby Thoma | Staff Writer

On Wednesday, April 17, Western released an email stating that a water main break on campus affected the following buildings: Administration, The Cottage, ITC, Maple Hall, Campbell Hall, Bellamy Hall, Academic Programs Support Center and the Advising Center. 

Drinking water in said buildings was not guaranteed to be safe and was sent off to be tested to ensure safe potability levels. The aforementioned buildings were then put under a 24-hour boil water notice, ordered by the City of Monmouth. 

A water main break occurs when the water main, the service line maintained by the city to ensure clean water is delivered to taps, acquires a hole or a crack, allowing surrounding soil and other contaminants to seep in. Contaminants include but are not limited to debris and bacteria. To fix this issue, the pipe is dug up and repaired or replaced, water quality is tested to ensure safety and the hole is patched up. 

The waters were said to be okay for handwashing — just not drinking. Hand sanitizers and water bottles were placed in the affected buildings for extra caution during those 24 hours. These buildings were closed due to safety concerns, causing classes to be canceled and faculty, staff and students to be evacuated. On Thursday, April 18, Western released that the test returned and that the water from the affected buildings was safe to drink. The boil water notice was subsequently lifted.  

If this occurs again, it is important to limit water use as contaminated water can put one at risk for waterborne diseases. Water filters such as Brita are only for filtering potable drinking water, so before a safety — potability notice — it is recommended to drink other liquids or bottled water and shower as little as possible. 

There is no need to worry, as of April 18, the water is officially safe to drink.

Contact the author at ethoma23@mail.wou.edu

Not who I knew

Written by: Jaylin Hardin | Sports Editor

Content warning: gun violence, murder

We all have a friend who has been close to us for years. For me, it was a boy named Alex. Alex and I met during our junior year of high school during football season. He had just transferred from the 6A school in our area and was on the football team. I was the football team manager. I don’t really remember our first meeting in all honesty. 

Alex and I became fast friends and then like siblings. We were tight. 90% of my Snapchat memories from Senior year are from that f—-r either sleeping or pulling some shenanigans in class. He was especially close with my mom, sometimes even preferring to hang out with her over me when we’d fight over petty s–t.

Alex didn’t always have the best life. His biological mother abandoned him, and his adoptive family kicked him out as soon as he was 18. But, we still tried our best to stay in contact, even with our busy schedules, me with school and work, him sometimes out of service for months working for Grayback Forestry.

The last time I heard from him was Aug. 14, when he warned me about a fire that was close to Salem. My last two texts have remained unread since. Ten days prior, he had done the unthinkable.

I didn’t know about it until recently, maybe two weeks ago, only a few days after his arrest. My mom had called me and told me the news — she had found out from her former coworker. The world spun constantly that day.

Information on what happened is limited. I can’t even find the full story, but, from what I understand, Alex was somewhere he should not have been with some friends he should not have been with. Their day out ended with shooting someone and then to ensure he was dead, ran him over with their truck. His “friends” had been arrested almost immediately — it took them longer to connect Alex to the crime. The idiot had sent texts about covering up the crime and had photos of the victim’s firearm on his phone.

I think I cried all day that day. I was angry and felt like I failed my friend, like I didn’t do enough to help him. His last texts to me were looking out for me. I don’t think when the police searched his phone they even read my messages. They are still unread.

For me, the hardest thing is finding out someone you would trust with your life could do something so horrible. Alex was the person I trusted everything with in high school, the person who knew almost everything about me. We walked together at graduation. He is my brother. 

Finding out what he did was the worst. 

This is not the Alex I know. 

The Alex I know is sweet and funny. He makes smart decisions and has a somewhat steady head on his shoulders. 

At the same time, it terrifies me. What if this is truly who he is and he had just hidden it all this time? What if I had done more to help him stay on track and out of trouble?

My mom feels like she failed him too. Alex had been in her ERC — Educational Resource Center — classroom for his ADHD and that is mostly where their bond formed — where she developed her maternal feelings toward him. She still calls him her kid. 

This is not the Alex she knows either.

As I sit here on my laptop, staring at what he is being charged with, I am sobbing. This was my best friend and now he is someone I no longer know.

So far, he has had two court dates, one for the first three initial charges: second-degree murder, criminal conspiracy and aggravated assault. There was a second court date adding on two more charges: hindering prosecution and tampering with evidence. My high school best friend is being charged with four felonies and a misdemeanor.

I am not sitting here and telling this story without a purpose or a reason. Part of me wanted to share this because I know, somewhere out there, people are going through the same thing. Their brother or sister or father or mother has done something unspeakable and they don’t know how to feel. Sometimes it’s horror, sometimes it’s pain.

I also wanted to highlight how unexpected life can really be and how it changes people. I had gone weeks without thinking about Alex and this news suddenly came up and rocked my world. I was not expecting it at all. And I think in a way, him not answering my texts was almost how he could avoid having people close to him questioned about his character by the police. His way of trying to keep the people close to him out of this.

I still feel angry at my friend. I feel sad. I will not get him back for years and when I do, he will be a completely changed person, and so will I because of his actions. He will be hardened, brittle and angry. I will likely be a wife and a mother by the time he is released. And when he is, I will still be there to support him and hopefully get him on his feet. 

No matter the stupid things he does, Alex is my brother and best friend. He always will be, murder charges will never change that. Especially when I think about the situation he had to be in to do such a thing.

Alex will always be my brother. 

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

2014 Tumblr vibes

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

“Sweater Weather” — The Neighbourhood

“Colors” — Halsey

“Robbers” — The 1975

“Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?” — Arctic Monkeys

“Primadonna” — Marina and the Diamonds

“Someone New” — Hozier

“Another Love” — Tom Odell

“Do I Wanna Know?” — Arctic Monkeys

“Tennis Court” — Lorde

“Young and Beautiful” — Lana Del Rey

“Kids” — MGMT

“Cigarette Daydreams” — Cage the Elephant

“Young Blood” — The Naked and Famous

“Someday” — The Strokes

“Take Me to Church” — Hozier

“Little Talks” — Of Monsters and Men

“Born to Die” — Lana Del Rey

“Royals” — Lorde

“Daddy Issues” — The Neighbourhood

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

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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.

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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.