Mount Hood

Tips for those who want to get a new piercing

Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

Getting a new piercing can be a fun, spontaneous activity when wanting to try something new. I was someone who got their ears pierced when I was very young, but as I got older, I wanted to get more — specifically in my ears. One thing I didn’t realize was just how much work went into taking care of different types of piercings, so I thought I’d jot down a few tips for anyone who is pondering the idea of getting one.

  • Always remember to clean it when necessary. Piercings can get infected very easily if careless, so it’s important to clean the spot every day for at least the first few months — unless instructed otherwise. Many businesses that offer piercings often will include a piercing care kit post-piercing, but for those that don’t have an after-care kit, use a saline solution to keep it from getting infected.
  • Do not take the piercing out until enough time has passed, ensuring that it won’t close. Sometimes the piercing will get infected despite one’s best efforts — and the pain can potentially drive people nuts. Some might think the ideal thing to do is to take the jewelry out, but depending on how much time has passed since it was pierced, it could close very quickly. Others may just be sick of the stud, hoop or bar that is currently being used, however the same problem will happen; it’s important to wait until the hold is healed for a long enough period that it won’t close.
  • Use hypoallergenic jewelry during the healing stage. For example, once it’s okay to switch out earrings, make sure the studs or hoops are safe to put into a new piercing. If the metal on the earring isn’t hypoallergenic, it can irritate the piercing and make it become sore or infected, potentially both. 
  • Don’t let jewelry snag on anything — clothing, hair, bags, etc. — because it will definitely hurt. Become more mindful of the piercing to avoid hurting yourself; having unneeded soreness is a pain and can be easily avoided. Make sure hair isn’t looped around an earring when putting up hair, or wear clothing without mesh or lace so it doesn’t get caught.
  • Finally, try not to touch the piercing too much after it’s first done. Hands can carry a lot of germs, and a newly sensitive area will sap them up easily. It’s cool to see that there’s something new on the face, ear or body, however, for the sake of the piercing, just don’t touch it.

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Photo by Kay Bruley

This week in completely made up horoscopes

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

[fruitful_tab title=”Aries 3/21-4/19″] Round 1: FIGHT [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Taurus 4/20-5/20″] You may think that was a good idea, but be honest with yourself… it most surely was not. Have fun fixing it. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Gemini 5/21-6/20″] You want some advice? [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Cancer 6/21-7/22″] An apple a day keeps the doctor away; an apple aimed at his head keeps him away for life. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Leo 7/23-8/22″] Don’t let yourself get overshadowed by the DiCaprios and DiVincis of the world… can’t all be special. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Virgo 8/23-9/22″] 🙁 Virgo, you’re the snack that DOESN’T smile back, and that’s ok 🙂 [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Libra 9/23-10/22″] Take some time to relax Libra. Maybe grab some popcorn, place some bets, and watch the Sagittarii v Capricorns fight it out. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Scorpio 10/23-11/21″] It’s okay, Spring Break is only 54 days away. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Sagittarius 11/22-12/21″] Attack any capricorn you see today 🙂 [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Capricorn 12/22-1/19″] Be safe, you’ll probably get attacked by a sagittarius today. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Aquarius 1/20-2/18″] Inserting yourself into the Sag v Cap situation will definitely make it better 🙂 [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Pisces 2/19-3/20″] Steer clear of both Sagittariuses and Capricorns this week. Both are crazy tbh. [/fruitful_tab]

[/fruitful_tabs]

Opinion: Representation in media matters

Caity Healy  | Managing Editor

The other week, I was binge-watching the second season of Netflix’s “You.” Part way into the season, they introduced a d/Deaf/Hard-of-hearing character — it’s not obvious how he identifies, which is why I use both forms of the letter “D” as well as “hard-of-hearing” — as the late husband of a main character. 

I could write a whole other piece about the way that the other characters addressed the d/Deaf character, but that’s not the point I’m making today; rather, I want to focus on how viewers addressed this character, and characters alike.

When I sat down to watch the episode, I had a friend with me. Afterwards, they said something along the lines of, “the problem with having so many d/Deaf characters is that it just isn’t realistic. It throws off the balance.” My reaction? That’s absolutely ridiculous.

To be clear, this isn’t the first time I’ve heard someone say something along these lines. I’ve heard it regarding disabled folks in TV/film, LGBTQ+ in TV/film and I’ve heard it about other minority or other-identifying groups. I’ve heard people say that it bothers them how unrealistic the “overrepresentation” is, and it leaves me with a few questions: is it really overrepresentation or throwing off the balance? Also, in most cases, does it really matter how “realistic” a film or TV show is? Finally, is it really the “accuracy” of the representation that bothers you, or is it internalized bias?

Let’s start with the question of whether it is or is not realistic. According to cdc.gov, 61 million adults in the U.S. have a disability — roughly 1 in 4. So, in order for media to be “accurate,” 1 in 4 characters would need to have a disability. Of course, not all disability is visible. But that’s what’s important — representing folks who identify with all different kinds of disabilities. 

Now let’s answer question two: if realism is really important or not. Unless you’re watching a documentary, or watching a historically-based program, I would argue that it doesn’t matter. We can’t pick and choose when realism is important or not. If it doesn’t bother you that an impossible plot is occurring, it shouldn’t bother you that there is a larger number of minority characters, which brings me to my final point.

Self-reflection is an important practice. If you are bothered by something like this, you might want to ask yourself why. If you can’t whole-heartedly say that it is due to the fact that you find it unrealistic, then it probably has something to do with your internalized bias against folks who identify in ways that you might not. We all have our biases, and if you aren’t reflecting on them, you’ll only perpetuate them.

A change in perspective could do viewers a lot of good if they find themselves upset by this representation in media. The only way to normalize representing the underrepresented, is to simply give them screen time — played by actors who actually identify with their character’s identities. It’s time to become comfortable with the fact that these folks deserve the roles they’re earning. It’s time to realize that these characters are here to stay, and they’re just going to keep coming.

 

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu

Opinion: Is Western really going to become Hispanic-serving?

Mia Sierra  | Guest Writer

As a Hispanic student, more specifically a Mexican student, one way I like to be involved on campus is by attending M.E.C.H.A. meetings. M.E.C.H.A. — which stands for Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán — is a club that seeks to promote Chicano unity and empowerment at Western. In one meeting, the topic of Western becoming a Hispanic Serving Institute came up. This means that 25% or more of students attending Western identify as Hispanic, which will lead to the university getting more money. 

I was surprised when I heard that Western was planning to become Hispanic-serving. First, because I didn’t even think that there were any Hispanic Serving Institutes in the United States, and second, because seemingly no one has talked about it. 

I checked Western’s student racial demographics online. It shows that 60% are white, while Hispanic/Latino students make up about 15%. For a school to be eligible to become a Hispanic Serving Institute, the college or university must have 25% or more Hispanic students enrolled, said Gina Ann Garcia in her book  “Becoming Hispanic-Serving Institutions: Opportunities for Colleges and Universities.”

For Western to become Hispanic-serving, administration must find a way to increase Hispanic enrollment from 15% to 25%. In a speech I found online from Sep. 17, 2018 titled “President’s State of the University Address Rice Auditorium,” President Rex Fuller addresses Western’s goal to become a Hispanic Serving Institution. 

“As one of our objectives in this plan, WOU should embrace the goal of becoming a Hispanic Serving Institution. Once achieved, WOU would be the only four-year institution in Oregon with such a designation. To achieve this, we need to see Hispanic enrollment grow from 16% to 25% of total enrollment. Or, we need to grow from just under 800 to 1,200 Hispanic students,” Fuller said.

With the need of increasing Hispanic enrollment, I don’t think that Western will be able to achieve a 25% Hispanic student population. The reason I believe this is because during M.E.C.H.A. meetings, many of the students expressed how they don’t feel represented here at Western. They feel that Western lacks the resources for representation and aid for Hispanic/Latino students. This may cause Hispanic students to transfer to a different university and deter future students from attending Western.   

Although Fuller talks about the goal for Western to become a Hispanic Serving Institute, I noticed that he doesn’t talk about how Western plans to increase Hispanic enrollment, he just talks about what needs to happen. With no plan of action, is Western Oregon University really going to be a Hispanic Serving Institute?

 

Contact the author at mcelest01@gmail.com

Try these date ideas for quickly approaching Valentine’s Day

Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

Valentine’s Day is a time where many people decide to go out on dates — whether it’s a first date with a stranger, or an outing with a long-term partner. In a small community like the Monmouth-Independence area, it can be difficult to find a place to go to. Here are a few suggestions for those thinking of going out on Valentine’s Day.

A simple date can involve going to the movies, and the Independence Cinema isn’t far for those looking to watch one on Valentine’s Day. Located at 450 S. 2nd Street in Independence, it can provide the perfect low-key and relaxing date for a couple of lovebirds. Currently, there are options for those wanting to see a drama, horror or animated film, but the showings for Valentine’s Day are not confirmed. Potentially, couples can choose to watch the upcoming horror “Fantasy Island,” the fun fantasy “Sonic the Hedgehog” or the romantic drama “The Photograph.” For those that want to inquire at showtimes, they can go to the website independencecinema8.com, or call (503) 606-3000. Closed-captioning devices are available at the front desk at each showing.

Jubilee Champagne and Dessert Bar is nearby for those wanting to eat something sweet with their sweetheart. In addition to desserts and champagne, the establishment also has various things to choose from for a lunch date. Jubilee Champagne and Dessert is located at 296 S Main St. in Independence, and is open Tues.–Fri. 3–9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.–8 p.m. If a more sophisticated and romantic dinner is the goal, try Roberts Crossing in Salem, which has an extensive dinner and drink menu. Roberts Crossing is in Salem at 3635 River Road South and is open Tue.–Thu. 4–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 4–9:30 p.m. and Sunday 4–8:30 p.m. More information can be found on Jubilee’s Instagram (@jubilee.champagne.dessert) and Facebook, and Roberts Crossing’s website robertscrossing.com.

While these places can be great for going out, a nice night in at home can be a perfect alternative for those that would rather stay in or save money. A romantic night at home can involve cooking a meal together, snuggling up under a blanket to watch a movie, baking something sweet, painting together or anything else that comes to mind.

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Planning the perfect Super Bowl party

Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

Snacks: For most parties, snacks are some of the most important must-haves. People will graze on chips while watching TV, or start a conversation over the appetizers. An easy set up is an assortment of chips in large bowls sporadically placed around, or, if chips aren’t preferred, use pretzels and popcorn, or a combination of all of these to provide variety. Other finger foods that can be prepared with minimal effort are mozzarella cheese sticks, mini corn dogs or hot dogs, pizza rolls or various fruit and vegetable platters. Alternatively, simply ordering a pizza is a quick way to provide food for a larger group of people. 

For those that decide on chips, try making one of these dips to pair with it.

ONION DIP

Start to finish: ~1 hour

1 packet of onion dip seasoning

16 ounces of sour cream

Add sour cream to a bowl with the onion dip seasoning. Mix together thoroughly and let it sit for at least an hour before serving. Alternatively, seasoning can be poured straight into the sour cream container.

BACON CHEESEBURGER DIP

Start to finish: 40 minutes

½ pound ground beef

6 strips bacon, cut into 1 inch pieces

1 small onion, diced

1 clove garlic, chopped

4 ounces of cream cheese, room temperature

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup mayonnaise

¾ cup mozzarella, shredded

¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 teaspoon mustard

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once finished, drain the grease from the pan and set it aside. Cook the bacon in the same pan until crispy for about 6–10 minutes. Set aside and save a tablespoon of the grease.

Add onion to the pan with the bacon grease and saute until tender, about 5–7 minutes.

Add the garlic and saute until fragrant, about a minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Mix the ground beef, bacon, onions and garlic, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, ½ cup of the mozzarella cheese, ½ of the cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and ketchup together in a large bowl. Pour into a baking dish.

Bake in a preheated oven (350 °F) until the top starts to turn a light golden brown and bubbling, taking about 20–25 minutes. A few minutes before it is done, add ¼ cup of cheddar cheese and a ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese to the top and stick it back in the oven until the cheese is melted. Serve with warm tortilla chips.

Recipe from wishesndishes.com

 

Decorations: No party is complete without decorations, but they don’t have to be extravagant. Red, white and yellow or gold — depending on the preference of team — can serve as the palette for decorations. Something simple like streamers can liven up a room in no time. They can be hung up where the wall meets the ceiling or arranged in the doorway in an alternating pattern. Draping all three colors on a bare wall will make for a fun, themed photo opportunity to prove just how lively the day was. 

Another decoration choice is a banner; many stores offer blank ones that can be customized specifically, or a cheaper route is to buy one and write on it. Pennant banners can come in a variety of colors to match the theme of the party, and can be relatively low cost. Take a black, gold or silver sharpie and go crazy with writing witty slogans.

Finally, either buying or making football shaped wall adornments can bring it all together. Some stores that have decorations for sale will likely have something like this, or drawing a football on printer or construction paper and cutting them out will also work just fine. Creating the decoration could also be a fun activity for those that are setting up the party.

 

Dressing up: Repping one of the teams is a must for those attending or hosting a Super Bowl party. The easy way to do this is by wearing a jersey of the preferred team, but, for those that don’t own a Kansas City Chiefs or San Francisco 49ers jersey, opt to wear a shirt with the team logo or that matches the respective team’s colors. For die-hard fans of either team, try decking out fully in the team’s colors — match pants with a top to create an all red outfit, or try pairing fun socks or a beanie with the rest of the ensemble.

For those who want to take their team spirit to the next step, try using face paint. It’ll stand out in photos and can be an entertaining activity for anyone that attends. Get prepped beforehand, or plan something for the guests to do before the game begins. Set up a painting station with face paint and brushes — or markers that are safe to use on the face — and have the guests line up and start. If everyone has the same thing drawn on their faces, take a group selfie to show off some team spirit.

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Photo by Caity Healy (jersey)

Photos by Rylie Horrall (decorations and chips)

Monday meditation methods to ease the soul

Sean Martinez  | Copy Editor

With midterms looming on the horizon, getting into a relaxed state of mind can be challenging for students. One of the more helpful ways of achieving that is through meditation. There are many different practices, ranging from sitting in one place to simply walking around the block. 

Dr. Lars Söderlund, the Chair of the English Department, leads a Meditation Club in the hopes of providing students with an outlet to reduce stress. 

For the past five years, Söderlund has utilized all kinds of meditations. The first method Söderlund explained was ‘concentration meditation.’ It’s one of the most commonly practiced meditations, which involves sitting in a comfortable place, with eyes closed and directing one’s attention to a single thing at a time. This can be breathing, posture, physical pain, anything. The aim is to be aware of the things the mind is focusing on. If the mind starts to sway off topic, try to shift the focus back to the initial focus.

“You can be more or less specific, you just want to make sure that you’re acknowledging what’s happening and moving back to the breath,” Söderlund said. 

Another form of meditation that Söderlund recommended is ‘loving-kindness.’ The ‘loving-kindness’ meditation, or Maitrī, is a Buddhist meditation method that wishes goodwill to oneself and others. Phrases can begin with ‘May I be happy’ or ‘May I be healthy and safe,’ but the phrases can be whatever is desired. These phrases can also be wished upon other people — loved ones, acquaintances, disagreeable people or even the whole world.

“And when I do that everyday I feel like a million bucks,” Söderlund added. 

Söderlund’s overall favorite meditation is called “do nothing.” The instructions are straight-forward — sit in one place and allow the mind to go wherever it wants to go. This strategy in particular can be helpful to students as it’s normal to have random, recurring thoughts happen in the middle of class. Dedicating some time to let these thoughts loose can be a huge relief. 

“I’ve had the greatest revelations while doing it,” Söderlund said. “You realize your brain kinda runs on autopilot.” 

These are just a few of several meditation methods. Söderlund also says that meditations can be done with apps — there are several — or they can be self-guided. Meditation Club takes place in Bellamy Hall room 122 every Monday from 5-6 p.m. 

 

Contact the author at howlcopyeditor@wou.edu

Photo by Kay Bruley