Mount Hood

Nightmare Factory: water sprays, spooky maze and endless fun

Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

The Oregon School for the Deaf, located at 999 Locust St NE in Salem, has orchestrated a spooky haunted house for the last several years called The Nightmare Factory.
I first went in 2017 and was pleasantly surprised by the low fees and relatively small lines; this year, I decided to go on the day of Halloween in hopes of it being a slower night.
The grand amount of time spent in any of the lines added up to about an hour and a half, and the fee was only $15. For a VIP pass, it would cost $25 which is a relatively good price for what you get. The VIP pass allows customers to skip the line and go straight through to the haunted house.
Once at the actual entrance of the haunted house — or rather school — each group was sent to one of three different hallways. This allows the employees to better monitor the smaller groups of about seven to eight people by letting in one hallway at a time.
The set and props were impressive; every detail was carefully thought out, and the actors were fully committed to terrifying as many people as possible.
While this was a no contact haunt, several actors would act like they were going to touch customers’ faces, just to cause tension. There were also several points where water would be sprayed at those going through the house. The water was quite unpleasant, seeing as it was aimed right at eye level — not a fan favorite.
There may not have been one central theme, but they did have several throughout the night including clowns, zombies and ghosts. Having sets like a scary swamp and a carnival provided an immersive ambiance for the night.
There was a long portion with strobe lights, while the haunt-goers had to weave through a maze, convincing my group at one point that we were going in circles.
After a full thirty minutes of screams and fog machines, the exit led to the chilly outdoors.
Overall rating: This haunted house greatly improved from how it was two years ago; it fully developed into a heightened version of what it used to be. With actors committed to scaring each person, and a set so thorough, it seemed there was no escape — I have no complaints. I highly recommend anyone in need of a good fright to check it out next year.

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Photo by Emily Hedges

Review: Sequels are hard to do right, “Zombieland: Double Tap” was up for the challenge

Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

When “Zombieland” came out in 2009 many were shocked by how fun this zombie comedy was to watch, receiving more positive reviews than not. Ten years later, Reuben Fleischer returned to direct the sequel, “Zombieland: Double Tap.” 

For those who saw the first film, they will know that the sequel title alludes to Jesse Eisenberg’s character, Columbus, rules for surviving in the zombie apocalypse. Shooting a zombie twice to ensure that they are dead — or rather, double tap.

Throughout the first and second film, Columbus is narrating the story in the past tense, delivering punchy one-liners and guiding the audience through the movie.

Along with Eisenberg, the rest of the original cast also starred in the sequel: Emma Stone as Wichita, Woody Harrelson as Tallahassee and Abigail Breslin as Little Rock.

While the only character who looks physically different is Breslin, now a young adult, Columbus’ character development was interesting to see. He was more physically daring and ready to fight the new breed of zombies that terrorize his group. 

Keeping true to the brand of “Zombieland,” the sequel was full of surprises, dark humor and lots of gore. The introduction of a new community of survivors who are weed-loving pacifists was a jab at millenials and earned some hearty laughter from the crowd. 

Zombie movies are a hard genre to nail. After “Shaun of the Dead” (2004), I think a niche for more comedy horror movies emerged. Comedy horror is one of my favorite genres; it takes situations and creatures that normally fill an audience with fear, and turn it into something laughable.

Overall rating: I prefer the first “Zombieland” but when it comes to sequels, they did a great job of creating a new idea while keeping the core elements of what made it successful in the first place. Anyone who enjoys a funny horror film with a great cast of characters should check out “Zombieland: Double Tap.” 

 

Contact the at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Photos courtesy of zombieland.com

Women’s Club Soccer team continues to raise funds for their first-ever national tournament

Hannah Greene | Sports Editor

Disclaimer: This is a firsthand account of the attempt at raising funds for the Women’s Club Soccer team expenses for the national tournament. Being that I am on the team, I was in the loop of what was going on but not in every process or agreement made. Below is an account/summary of information I received from all parties involved, the Co-President Sarah Texter, Andy Main and President Rex Fuller. I, myself, am very grateful for all the support this team has received since the announcement of us going to compete in the NIRSA tournament.

 

On Oct. 4, the Women’s Club Soccer team was selected to participate in the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association tournament in Round Rock, Texas. This was one of the rare times any club or intramural team from Western Oregon University has ever been selected or invited to something this big. It was also the first time a women’s club team would attend a national tournament. 

Women’s Club Soccer is not a varsity team, therefore funding is not equal or advantageous for these types of tournaments. Since the entry fee was paid and the team was given the “okay” to pursue their chance at a national tournament, they have been faced with several roadblocks and setbacks. With that being said, there have been enormous amounts of help and support to get these women on a plane to Texas.

Monmouth is a small community, but a large supporter of anything associated with Western — especially when it comes to athletics. The Women’s Club Soccer team wanted to take advantage of this and before doing so reached out to the WOU Foundation to follow the steps correctly in asking for sponsors or money. The WOU Foundation returned saying the team was not allowed to ask Monmouth businesses because they already donate to Western Oregon University, and to be sponsored or funded it had to come from direct donations or through “people you know.” Many, such as the co-presidents and some team members, thought this was strange because club sports don’t see any of the money donated by Monmouth businesses; most funds are distributed to support the school and varsity athletics.

This didn’t stop the women’s team and a GoFundMe page was created; families, friends and community members donated, and REBuild Salem gave some sponsorship money as well as a tour and test of the new facility and equipment.

“The amount of money the Women’s Club Soccer has raised in such a short amount of time has been incredible. It’s really a testament to how organized and motivated they are. They continue to exceed expectations both on and off the field,” said Andy Main, the assistant director of campus recreation intramural and club sports, about the team finding ways to fund their way to Texas.

As of Oct. 18, the team had raised $4,109 of the $11,500 total needed for the tournament. This money was raised through generous donations, a bake sale and the money given from the Incidental Fee Committee for travel funds.

The team continued to show gratitude and perseverance, taking every step necessary and never overstepping boundaries or rules, making for an easier but longer process.

This was when Co-President Sarah Texter, a returning player from last year, reached out to President Rex Fuller for funding. Initially, communication was rough due to delays and miscommunication from President Fuller and his staff in regards to this matter. Ultimately, in the end, Texter met with President Fuller and he apologized for the delays and discussed how this experience has been a learning opportunity for both sides.

“This process has been very long and frustrating, but in the end all the hard work we have put in to make this trip happen will be worth it,” said Texter after receiving a response from President Fuller.

On Friday, Nov. 1, an email was received stating that President Fuller would support the Women’s Club Soccer team and give them funding matching the amount given by campus recreation.

“I am very grateful to receive a generous amount of support from the school,” said Texter shortly after the email from President Fuller was received.

“They’ve faced some obstacles along the way, but everyone from family members, the IFC travel sub-committee, and even President Fuller himself have stepped up to help out,” said Main after hearing the news of funding from President Fuller. “It really makes me proud to be a part of the WOU community.”

Women’s Club Soccer continues to trudge forward and raise money for the tournament, grateful for any donations given to them. The roster has been set in stone, the plane tickets have been purchased and the team is hyped and ready. The NIRSA tournament will be held during Nov. 21-23 in Round Rock, Texas. Come out and support these women at their next home game against the Beavers on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 4:30 p.m.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

A feast for the Wolves, Bearcats are main dish as the Men’s Rugby team leave everything on the field to take home the semi-final win

Hannah Greene | Sports Editor

Teeth were sharpened, growls were exchanged and the Wolves were ready to start their semi-final match against the Bearcats.

The Men’s Rugby team came into the game with a 4-0 winning streak after already beating Willamette University in the past. 

At noon, Saturday, Nov. 2, the Wolves came locked and loaded, a score made by senior Riley Bardes within the first three minutes of the game .

Not even 10 minutes after, Keegan Echevarria, a first-year, scored the second try of the game. The Wolves were heating up and scored their third try after Levi Jenks, a returning senior, crossed the endzone. The two points were then completed by sophomore Braedon Eltagonde. The Wolves were ahead 17-0 in only 20 minutes — and they weren’t done yet. Trever Kahunahana, a returning senior, scored another try, and moments later, Bernard Barber, another returning senior, scored too, making the score 27-0. 

Three minutes later, Willamette retaliated with their first completed try, making the score 27-5. This didn’t even phase the Wolves; they knew they’d score again, and Wylie Cossitt, a returning sophomore, took it upon himself to get the momentum back, scoring a try and adding five more points. Following this jump, Robert Cummings “RC,” a transfer, scored the seventh try of the game — followed by Eltagonde’s two-point kick, leaving the fans and the Bearcats with a halftime score of 39-5.

The second half allowed the teams to build momentum. RC snagged the first try of the half and his second try of the game, giving the Wolves an extra little oomph. But the Bearcats weren’t ready to give up just yet; scoring their overall second try of the game gave themselves double digits but not enough to keep up with the Wolves. 

Seconds after, Barber returned the Bearcats try with one of his own, and his second of the game, driving Western forward. 

The match continued to move forward in favor of the Wolves with continuous scoring. More point-grabbers of the game include: Anu Kanoho, a returner and last week’s Man of the Match, Jenks with his second try of the game and Andrew-James Reyes, a returning junior. 

 The Wolves ended the game with a score of 70-10.

Hats off to Willamette for keeping their heads in the game, playing with a total of 15 men. The Bearcats never gave up, even after the Wolves continued to score and add to the board. 

Man of the Match was awarded to Hakam Nagra, a returning sophomore, for his defensive skills and stability, as well as being a player the Wolves could depend on for being wherever he was needed. 

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Photos by Emily Prall

OSU Women’s Basketball welcome the USA Women’s National Basketball team to their court for home opener

Hannah Greene | Sports Editor

Drums rattled the sidewalk as spectators crowded the Gill Coliseum entry — it was on, the home opener for Oregon State University Women’s Basketball team faced none other than the United States Women’s Basketball team. The feels were real, chills were sent across the bleachers and the support for women’s athletics was roaring.

On Nov. 4, fans from all over came to watch the Beavers take on the USA team, a rare opportunity.

As I stepped into the Coliseum, my eyes began to tear up and my body was filled with an indescribable feeling as the players for both teams were introduced — an image forever ingrained in my head, the epitome of what women had fought for: the right to play sports. Every single player out there was proud, excited, happy and focused, but most of all, they were on the court supporting each other. Before the whistle blew to start the game, the USA players high-fived and shook hands with the OSU players.

Throughout the entire game, the USA team was giving pointers and hints to the Beavers, consistently showing encouragement.

The first half was not dominated by either team, with the Beavers challenging USA to every ball and shot. The crowd continued to cheer only for OSU and the crickets were standing strong every time the USA made points or got the ball. No matter what color shirt was worn, one could only cheer for the Beavers — the underdogs. 

The second half started with USA being the dominant team, and this carried on until the end, with every second entertaining the spectators. The Beavers never gave up, the pep in their step never faltered. The chance to play a national team with professional players would keep any competitor on their toes.

The game came to a close with the USA Women’s National team beating the Oregon State Beavers 81-58, but that didn’t mean the court was filled with grief and disappointment – just pure joy. 

The USA team takes on the University of Oregon Ducks this Saturday, Nov. 10 in Eugene at 4 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $12 for general admission.

If you get the chance to go to this game, do not pass it up. Whether you are a basketball fan or not, a sports fan or not, these athletes are sure to delight and engage everyone.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Photo by Hannah Greene

Trick or treating may be over, but the hat tricks aren’t: Women’s Club Soccer bring home a “W” and a shutout to up their standing in league

Max Carmona | Freelancer

As the Women’s Club Soccer team stepped onto the field, all cold and unwanted air was gone. The sun welcomed the team and their smiles welcomed the spectators. The Wolves warmed up with excitement and laughs while the University of Portland Vikings were nowhere to be found.

About 20 minutes before the game started, the Vikings showed up — unorganized, confused and with only a total of eleven players, enough for the field but no subs. The Wolves brought a squad of 19 giving them eight subs.

The start of the half can always tip either way, no matter how prepared or stacked a team may be. The Wolves’ defense held their line and barely allowed for any attack from the Vikings, while Portland’s defense was challenged minute by minute. Multiple opportunities were created by an assortment of Wolves returners including Hannah Greene, Kawehi Taniguchi, Chase Tokita, Haley Willmott,  and Gha Ming NG. 

After countless attacks and attempts on goals, it was surprising that the score did not reflect this. The Wolves disconnected at times, never knowing who was going for the ball first, not talking or communicating when necessary and players hiding from the ball rather than opening up to receive a pass. But, they continued strong plays on their attacking half. 

An injury was sustained on the field for the Vikings. Portland had no subs to cover this player, leaving them down one ‘man,’ and giving Western an advantage.

Quickly after this injury, a shot was kicked and kissed the back of the net by Taniguchi, making the score 1-0. This sent a ripple effect through the Western team, making everyone crave more goals.

The energy was heightened and the Wolves weren’t done; Sarah Texter, a returner, carried the ball up from defense and was able to find the goal — no one could stop her drive and determination — making the score 2-0, Wolves.

The first half came to a close and Western was able to come off the field feeling excited and confident. 

The sun dropped and coolness waved across the field, but the smiles were still there.

Second half started with a new lineup amongst the Wolves, getting fresh players on the field. Even having the new substitutes on the field, the intensity remained and the starters from first half had nothing but cheers and support for their fellow teammates. 

The ball continued to remain on the Wolves’ offensive half, giving the Wolves’ defense many opportunities to push up and get in the attack to try for more goals. By having the forwards stay high, and the midfielders on the attack with the forwards, this opened the playing field up for Texter to take the ball to goal again — and make her second goal of the game, Wolves 3 and the Vikings 0. A hat trick was on the rise.

Moments later, Kaylee Leong, a new player for the Wolves, scored the fourth goal of the game — feat for Leong, and an advantage for Western.

More subs were brought into the game giving the Wolves more ammunition and more chances for scoring. Multiple corner kick chances were given to Western, giving Greene the ball to set up her teammates.

And then, the hat trick moment came. Texter was given the ball again and took it all the way to the goal, scoring for the Wolves. And that she did, making her third goal and the final goal of the game to put the Wolves five goals ahead. The cheers were endless and the big smile across Texter’s face made for a sweet victory. 

The Wolves finished the game strong; they had won their first game, no more tying. A new month, a whole new team. Nov. 2 was a day to propel the Women’s Soccer Club forward.

The next home game for the Wolves will be on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 4:30 p.m. on the turf field against the Oregon State Beavers.

 

Contact the author at mcarmona18@wou.edu

Photo by Tobi Greene

Western’s Dia de los Muertos celebration invited students to a night of fun and remembrance featuring traditional food and dance

Sage Kiernan-Sherrow | News Editor

“Our dead are never dead until we have forgotten them,” said Western’s Multicultural Student Union Representative, Paola Sumoza, during the Dia de los Muertos celebration on Oct. 30. The MSU hosts a Dia de los Muertos celebration every year; the event is free and anyone is welcome to attend and learn more about this important historical holiday.

Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is an ancient holiday with its roots in Aztec culture. Later, it fused with Catholic beliefs when the Spanish conquistadores began colonizing the Americas. Today, Dia de los Muertos is a two-day celebration strongly celebrated in Mexico, and in some Latin American countries as well. It is celebrated on the first and second day of November; the first day is dedicated to the children who have died and is known as Dia de los Angelitos.

With a focus on honoring ancestors and loved ones, Dia de los Muertos invites the dead to come to the land of the living to reconnect with their families. Traditionally, the families of the dead set up altars — much like the one displayed in the Werner University Center paying homage to culturally-impactful deceased Hispanic and Latinx figures. The altars are decorated with ofrendas, or offerings, which provide ancestors with a safe passage back home. Most ofrendas carry symbolic meaning; while photographs of deceased loved ones are displayed, so too is water for the dead who are thirsty after their long journey and salt for purification.

An important figure representative of Dia de los Muertos is La Catrina, or the goddess of the dead. Donned in a feathered hat typical of the bourgeoisie, La Catrina was originally a political cartoon created by Jose Guadalupe Posada in the early 1900s to symbolize that death comes for everyone — even the aristocracy.

Dia de los Muertos was also represented in the 2017 Disney movie “Coco,” a film that gave representation to many people. During Western’s Dia de los Muertos festivities, Sumoza touched on this importance, saying, “now that I have my children, I’m teaching them these traditions and customs that we have and when we first watched “Coco,” something interesting that my daughter said was ‘Look mom, “Coco” celebrates it like we celebrate it.’”

At Western’s Dia de los Muertos celebration, students were invited to participate in cultural festivities, such as consuming pan de muerto, watching traditional dances which featured performances by Ballet Folklorico Tlanese, and getting their faces painted in traditional calavera — or sugar skull — design. It was a bright and colorful approach to processing death and grief, and respecting the ancestors that came before. 

 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Photos by Sage Kiernan-Sherrow

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