Mount Hood

A Closer Look at Lana Del Ray

Written by: Nicholas Sarysz

Lana Del Rey is an American singer, songwriter and record producer, whose real name is Elizabeth Woolridge Grant. Del Rey rose to fame in 2011 with her debut single “Video Games” and, shortly after, the album “Born to Die.” She is most well known for her melancholic style of pop music.

The artist was born into an upper-middle-class family in upstate New York in the 1980s. Growing up singing in church, Del Rey was later sent to a boarding school as a teenager for her deviant behavior. It wasn’t until a couple of years after she finished school that she started her music career.

Del Rey has received both critical acclaim and criticism throughout her career. Many dislike her because of her image and persona — which they view as inauthentic or manufactured. Others take issue with her lyrics and the themes she often explores, such as Hollywood glamor, sadness and drug use.

Del Rey’s  biggest criticism early  in her career came from many questioning her authenticity. Despite being labeled as an indie artist, her 2008 debut EP, released under the name “Lizzy Grant,” was produced by well-known figure David Kane. When she later changed her stage name to Lana Del Rey and moved to London after a failed album in 2010, the internet quickly flooded with claims of her new persona being fabricated by label executives.

Despite the criticism, Lana Del Rey has grown to become an incredibly successful and influential artist. Her music has been praised for its haunting beauty, melancholic lyrics and vintage aesthetic. Her albums have topped the charts in multiple countries and sold millions of records worldwide. She has won several awards and has gone multi-platinum with many of her albums — solidifying her place in the music industry. 

Whether or not Lana Del Rey’s image and persona are authentic is irrelevant. What matters is the impact she has had on the music industry and the emotions her music evokes in her listeners. Love her or hate her, there’s no denying that Lana Del Rey is a unique and impactful artist.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Students Watercolor Show

Written by: Gretchen Sims

Jan. 20 wrapped up the most recent student exhibit in the Instructional Technology Center. The works from the student watercolor show showed off the incredible talent of Western’s student artists. 

The exhibit was an exciting first for some students. Quinlan Wedge, an artist displayed in the show, said, “It felt rewarding to have my art displayed in the ITC gallery. I have had a couple pieces displayed in other places, such as a show in my hometown and a winery show, but it’s special to see my art made at WOU in an official WOU gallery space. I’m not graduating this year, but it feels full circle, you know?”

An interesting tidbit about this exhibit is that these pieces were curated from the same class assignment.

“My favorite aspect of the course was how much artistic freedom we were all given,” said Jude Bokovoy, a senior with a major in communication studies and a minor in art & design. “As you can see throughout the exhibit everyone’s artwork is drastically different from one another, can you believe we all had the same assignments?”

This exhibit was Bokovoy’s first show. 

Bokovoy added, “Honestly, it was a little intimidating having my artwork displayed at first. I originally took this course for fun, unlike the incredibly talented art majors that were the vast majority of the class. Therefore, I wasn’t too focused on the final product, instead, I was devoted to applying all of the techniques that were being taught. At the end of the day, I am very happy that I was able to have my work displayed in a gallery for the very first time.”

This exhibit was not only a vibrant display of the talent in the Western community, but it was also a chance for budding and experienced artists alike to convey heartfelt messages through their works.

“I’m regularly reforming my ideas about my art and what I want it to be, but something that has always remained true is that I want the viewer to find joy in it. Art can mean anything you want it to, and I’d rather look for things that make me feel happy and remind me of childhood than things that make me scared or uncomfortable. Of course, that type of art has value too, but I’m just not one of those artists!” said Wedge. 

Be sure to look out for future upcoming exhibits to check out the incredibly skilled artists that Western galleries are so incredibly honored to host. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Sending Subjects

Written by:Jude Bokovoy 

Been waiting for a topic to be discussed in the lifestyle section of the Western Howl? Wait no longer. Shoot an email to howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu and see it in an upcoming edition. Whether seeking advice or information regarding a particular topic or trend, the staff over at the Howl appreciate any and all student suggestions. Send in ideas for next week’s issue. If one is feeling up to the task, every student is welcome to pitch an idea to write themselves as a freelance writer. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Glamorous Gallivanting

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Running out of activities to do with friends? Check out the list below for some inspiration for the next girls night.

Holiday — Valentine’s day is just around the corner. Celebrate one’s most beloved friends by having a sleepover. Come in Valentine’s pajamas, bring heart-shaped charcuterie boards, make pink cocktails and watch romantic movies all night long.

Spa — Spend the night in face masks, painting nails and sipping on a sparkling chilled drink.

Movie — Is there a new movie coming out that all of one’s friends are wanting to watch? Better yet, is there a movie series to dedicate the evening to?

Get drinks — This is a great activity to do with a new friend. There is no time commitment or agenda. One could get well drinks and do karaoke at a bar in town, or if classy cocktails are of interest, there are plenty of places to visit in Salem.

Make vision boards — Not only are they fun to make, this activity also gives the opportunity to learn more about one another. When finished, each person can give a mini presentation about their board. 

TV show premieres — Television series that release an episode each week are a great way to dedicate a day to spending quality time with friends. Popular shows of this kind include “The Kardashians”, “Love is Blind” and any series within “The Bachelor” franchise.

Appetizers — Having each person bring an appetizer is a great way to exchange recipes and try something new. If there are enough people, there could be enough food to count as a whole meal.

Powerpoint — Find something one thinks is funny or is passionate about to give a presentation on. Get creative with layouts, pictures and graphics.

Art — Having a little project to do can be relaxing, encourage bonding and can even act as a creative outlet. Plus, it will provide a physical object to use as a decoration — coupled with a good memory of being with friends.

Making a dish together — Making a meal or dessert takes a good amount of time and can be customized. There are a number of options. Classics include mini pizzas, baking and decorating cookies or a cake.

Games — There are so many games to choose from; chances are there are already a few in one’s home. Card, board or personal question games such as “For the Girls,” are all great options that could be played for hours.

Happy hour — Most restaurants have a happy hour menu early in the evening and last hour of the night. Mix and match drinks and appetizers to share with friends.

Go to a game — Get out of the house by going to see the Blazers or stay close to home by going to a Western home game.

Theme — Have a tv show, trend or even a color that the group is currently obsessed with? Make it a girls night by dressing up, bringing snacks and doing activities related to the theme.

Make bucket lists — These don’t need to be generic. Really put some thought into a personalized bucket list. They don’t need to be things to check off before one’s expiration date. They could be lists to complete before graduation or even a list of activities to do with one’s group of friends.

A night in the city — Feeling ambitious? Drive out of town to a nearby city such as Portland. There are plenty of places to have dinner, go out for drinks and much more. If one is feeling extra spontaneous, book a cheap place to stay. In the morning, go out for brunch before heading back home.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Staying Healthy During Cold and Flu Season

Writtten by: Nicholas Sarysz

All year long, leading a healthy lifestyle is important, but during the cold and flu season, it becomes even more essential. Maintaining good physical and mental health can strengthen one’s  immune system and lower one’s risk of illness. Here are some suggestions to keep oneself from getting sick this winter.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet — Eating well is essential for maintaining a robust immune system. Ensure that one’s diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. The vitamins and minerals in these foods help to support one’s immune system. Increase consumption of immune-boosting foods like green tea, garlic and ginger.

Drink enough water — Keep one’s body hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. This will help to keep one’s immune system strong. Aim for eight glasses of water or more each day.

Exercise regularly — Routine physical activity is crucial for overall health and can help boost one’s immune system. Aim for 30 minutes or more per day of moderate exercise. Exercise can boost immune cell circulation throughout the body and lower stress levels, which can impair immunity.

Get enough sleep— A sound immune system depends on getting enough sleep. To assist one’s  body in relaxing and recharging, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Control stress — Stress can impair one’s immune system and increase one’s susceptibility to disease. Try to reduce stress levels by exercising or using relaxation methods like yoga or meditation.

Avoid unhealthy habits — Immune systems can become weakened by bad habits like smoking, binge drinking or a sedentary lifestyle. Make an effort to break these habits and choose healthier alternatives.

Wash hands frequently — Hand washing is one of the most efficient ways to stop the spread of germs, so do it often. Wash one’s hands thoroughly, especially after being in a public area or after blowing one’s nose, for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.

Disinfect surfaces —The flu and cold viruses can survive for several hours on surfaces. To help lower the risk of infection, regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and keyboards.

Avoid close contact with sick people — Avoid being in close proximity to sick people one knows. If one must be in close proximity, put on a mask and frequently wash one’s hands.

In conclusion, maintaining a strong immune system and avoiding illness during the cold and flu season depends greatly on caring for one’s physical and mental health. By adhering to these recommendations, one can help prevent illness and maintain good health throughout the winter.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

It’s About Time

Written by: Jude Bokovoy 

The life of a college student can get plenty unorganized when time management skills aren’t in one’s toolkit. Skip the stress by adding these three suggestions to one’s daily routine and get back on track today.

Set a sleeping schedule — Of course, it’s best to wake up early to be one’s most productive self. But it’s much more than that. In reality, if one wakes up at 7 a.m. but doesn’t go to bed until 2 a.m. it wouldn’t be good. This is why setting up a sleeping regimen can be crucial to success. Ideally, one should be getting eight to ten hours of sleep each night. It can be okay to get less but definitely not more. Although it may seem like the healthier option to sleep more, sleeping too much can lead to a lack of energy throughout the day. If one goes to bed at 11 p.m. and wakes up at 7 a.m., it would be the perfect amount of rest, while giving the opportunity to knock out some tasks in the morning.

Leave early — The main reason why people find themselves arriving late to their plans is because they didn’t give themselves enough time to get there. To ensure timeliness, give oneself 10 minutes or more of breathing room. Let’s be real, it’s better to arrive early and watch TikToks in one’s car than to be late to an appointment for something as trivial as scrolling too long before one’s departure.

Have a planner — This cannot be stressed enough. Being able to see one’s entire week laid out on paper is a blessing.. Keeping a planner updated can allow one to keep up with assignments, fill in unexpected plans, plan far out and feel more relieved when seeing everything laid out. There is an abundance of options to choose from when it comes to layout, size, space and whatever else one can think of. Outlet stores such as T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s have many options at a great price.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Recap of the 16th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Week

Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

To honor and remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Western and Student Engagement partnered with the City of Monmouth to bring a week of celebratory events to the community. This year, MLK Week marked the 16th anniversary of celebration at Western and ran from Monday, Jan. 16 through Friday, Jan. 20. 

On Jan. 16, amidst a three-day weekend, Western students were encouraged to appreciate and reflect on the efforts of the civil rights leader via participation in a day of service. The event was not specifically geared towards members of the Western or Monmouth communities, but for those wanting to give back to the elderly and/or disabled Monmouth residents through community service. Participants of the service day assisted in projects ranging from yardscaping, housework and graffiti removal.

Justin Sunada, Assistant Director for the Center for Professional Pathways, played a significant role in making the service event happen. According to Sunada, he had pitched the idea of a community service event at a monthly meeting for the Monmouth Business Association. Sunada, alongside City of Monmouth’s Director of Community and Economic Development, Suzanne Dufner, immediately began the process of brainstorming ideas for service projects.

Sunada states, “Doing more with the City (of Monmouth) and getting students off campus as much as possible has always been a goal for us so the timing was just right with this event.” 

Approximately 40 individuals — from students, faculty, community members and City of Monmouth employees — participated in the Day of Service, making it a successful first event to kick off MLK Week.

On Tuesday, Jan. 17, the Black Student Union took over for the remainder of the week. Running from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., BSU invited students to join them in the creation of their very own dream board. The event participants explored individuality while reflecting on their own personal and/or professional dreams.

On Wednesday, Western students sat for a panel discussion led by Western Professor Mike Wilson surrounding the topic of some of Dr. King’s lesser known statements and aspirations. This event, titled “Sincerely: Reading and Discussion,” was hosted by BSU and was made possible by Maya Hopwood, Deshaun Stevens, Amari Hendrix, Dawn Johnson and Western Professor Mike Johnson.

On Thursday, Western and BSU had the honor of welcoming Dr. Lakeya Omogun as their 16th annual MLK Week keynote speaker. Dr. Omogun — a Nigerian artist, scholar, writer and speaker — gave a moving speech to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This event took place in the Pacific Room of the Werner University Center and was free for all students.

“The turn out for the Panel “Sincerely” was way more than expected!” said Hopwood. “We felt that people appreciated hearing our views on MLK’s writings and I hope our main message of ‘it’s not over yet and it will take EVERYONE to lead this charge’ really got across.”

This year, Western hoped to raise a total of $2023 in fundraising, which would directly benefit Abby’s House’s Basic Needs Fund and Care Cupboards — a free service available for students, providing snacks, school supplies and menstrual hygiene products. 

There were three ways students could raise money for Abby’s House, one of which was by making a donation directly through the WOU Foundation page. Students could also raise money by participating in pay-to-play table carnival games or through participation in the “Pie Your Professor” event.

Although the initial goal of $2023 was unmet, Western was able to raise $1283 towards assisting and meeting students’ basic needs. 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Western’s Athletics Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Title lX

Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

On Jan. 28, Western’s athletic teams celebrated the 50th anniversary of the long-standing federal civil rights law, Title IX.

For those unfamiliar with the law, Title IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits sex-based discrimination — including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation — in educational institutions that receive federal funding. In 1972, Title IX was enacted as part of the revised Education Amendments, which acted to update the previous Civil Rights Act of 1964 which contains no mention of educational discrimination.

The opening of the Title IX text is as follows:

“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, approximately 44% of student athlete opportunities go to women. This is a significant increase since pre-Title IX, a time where only 15% of college athletes were women. 

The 50th anniversary celebration was held in conjunction with Western’s women’s basketball game against Saint Martin’s University. 

As a reminder, Western holds its own policies and procedures regarding sexual harassment and sexual misconduct under the guidance of the Title IX team. 

All students who witness or become subject to sexual misconduct or harassment are thereby required to report all information to the Title IX coordinator. Students can file a report related to sexual harassment and/or sexual misconduct with the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

A List of Ways to Spend Time Alone

Wrtten by: Mikayla Coleman

Feeling disconnected from oneself? Noticing codependency on significant people in one’s life? Use this list of ideas to spend some quality time with oneself — allowing for growth, reflection and heightened confidence in one’s identity and place in the world. 

Take a hike. Monmouth has many nice places to walk, whether one is looking for a long trek or a short stroll. If one wants to get out of their comfort zone, Riverfront Park in Salem is a great choice for a change of scenery even in the colder months. Bundle up, get moving and breathe the fresh winter air. 

Try meditation. Depending on what level one is starting at, there are many options to try meditation. Those who identify as beginners can find great guided meditations and breathing exercises on Youtube. 

Visit an art gallery. There are many unique art galleries with rotating displays within Monmouth’s vicinity. Some in the Salem Area include Ernie and Gray, Salem on the Edge or the concrete gallery tucked in the back of the small, but amazing art supply store, the Art Department, located in the heart of downtown Salem.

Watch a thought-provoking documentary. Believe it or not, there are some documentaries that do not fall under the true crime umbrella. Some interesting documentaries that can be streamed on Netflix include “The Mind, Explained,” “How To Change Your Mind,” or “Human: The World Within.” 

Play a wholesome video game. Sometimes there is nothing better than cuddling oneself in a comfy blanket and playing some video games. Nintendo in particular has a lot of options that abstain from obsessive violence and fill one with that blissful childhood nostalgia, such as all of the variations of “Animal Crossing” or “Mario Kart.” Another good cross-platform option is “Stardew Valley.” 

Do a digital declutter. Take a minute to finally pay attention to those disregarded text messages and emails. Take a look at one’s computer desktop and remove any old screenshots or non-important files. This small gesture can make a huge difference — when life becomes busy, it will be well worth it to have those things organized. 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu




Self Care Suggestions

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Self-care can mean a variety of things to any given person. At its core, self-care is taking time to work on oneself. Whether it’s self improvement, unwinding or picking up the pieces of an emotional week, self-care is always there to help. Here are some things to add to one’s agenda recommended by fellow Western students: 

Activities

  • Drinking tea
  • Napping
  • Reading
  • Making an iced coffee
  • Doing daily skincare routine
  • Working out
  • Worship
  • Relax while listening to music
  • Time with pets
  • Paint night 
  • Meditation
  • Everything showers
  • Cleaning room

Products

  • Guasha-ing using  “The Ordinary” face oil
  • Face masks
  • Exfoliating cleanser 
  • Glow recipe Watermelon glow Niacinamide dew drops
  • Paula’s Choice 2% BHA liquid exfoliant
  • Ice roller
  • “Aquaphor”
  • Truly Black Jelly body serum
  • “Good Molecules” Hyaluronic acid serum
  • “Good Molecules” Hyperpigmentation serum
  • Hydrating under eye masks
  • Neutrogena oil free moisturizer
  • Fuzzy bow robe headband 

Books

  • “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is about a young Andalusian shepherd who is longing to search the Earth for the most magical treasure anyone has ever discovered. While traveling in Egypt, he finds himself face to face with the alchemist. 
  • “All the Light we Cannot See” byAnthony Doerr is set in France during World War II. A blind French girl and German boy spend time together during the travesty. 
  • “Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood introduces two scientists who enter a fake relationship to study love but end up falling for each other, thus altering their experiment. 
  • “Things I Never Got Over” by Lucy Score follows a middle aged woman whose life is falling apart after running away from the altar. 
  • “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover is about a young woman named Lily who meets a surgeon that appears to be the man of her dreams. 
  • “It Starts with Us” by Colleen Hoover shows the main character Lily and her young love Atlas trying to restart their relationship as adults. 
  • “Daisy Jones and the Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid is about the popular (genre) band and their 60’s inexplicable breakup from the lead singer’s point of view.
  • “Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid tells the story of a family’s decision of what to take and leave from the people who made them. 
  • “The Inheritance Games” by Jennifer Lynn Barnes depicts a teenage girl that mysteriously inherits most of a multi-billionaire’s wealth and property without having any correspondence with the billionaire’s family.
  • “You are a Badass” by Jen Sincero guides one through how to live life to the fullest.
  • “Archer’s Voice” by Mia Sheridan is about a woman trapped in a horrific memory, but her true love proves to be the key to her own freedom.
  • “Atomic Habits” by James Clear guides one through how to change habits and make each day a little bit better. 
  • “It Happened One Summer” by Tessa Bailey is about a young woman whose mistakes land her in her hometown in the summer. 
  • “Three Women” by Lisa Taddeo is a long term study on three women regarding their relationships, coupling and desires. 
  • “Everything I know about Love” by Dolly Alderton is a memoir dedicated to navigating her early twenties.
  • “The Charm Offensive” by Alison Cochrun introduces Charles Winslaw after leaving his tech company. Winslaw tries to eradicate his image by becoming a contestant on a bachelor-esque dating show. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Beautiful Board

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Creating a personalized vision board is the perfect way to get a sense of what is truly important and explore what one’s goals are. Plus, it can be a great way to have a relaxing time making the masterpiece to display. The board can consist of yearly goals, futuristic goals or the curation of  one’s overall lifestyle. There are many routes to take when laying out one’s board. Here are some suggestions to get started.

Routine — What are some things that would help life be more motivating and organized? Whatever that may be, glue it down. Examples may include a skincare routine, using a planner or making one’s bed. 

Dream pet — Who doesn’t have their ideal pet ingrained in their head?

Trips — There are so many places to go around this beautiful planet, where would one like to start? Adventuring just around the corner, simply going home for a weekend or a special place on the bucket list are all good options.

Affirmations — Be kind to oneself. Even just a few words of encouragement can work wonders when received each day while looking over one’s board.

Little things that make one happy — Whatever that may be, make sure to include it. Flowers, iced coffee or butterflies — there are no limits. 

Fashion — Everyone has some clothing items they wished were in their closet. One could go that particular route or select pictures of a certain style to include within their board. 

Career — Adding one’s desired career can help with motivation when taking difficult courses. After all this is why most pursue a degree.

Home — Is there a kitchen or bedroom aesthetic that one’s been daydreaming about? 

Activities — Ask oneself what one wants to do more often. Going on picnics, walks or reading are all great ideas to include. Including it in the board could be just the thing to inspire one to get out and do it. 

Intentions — What impressions does one want to leave behind? Place a few key words down to help focus on what is important.

Plans to look forward to — The board doesn’t have to be all about the future. Place some exciting trips and events that are in one’s grasp.

Health — What would be beneficial to one’s health? Well balanced meals, working out or a skincare routine are all good ideas to consider adding.

Encouraging quotes or scriptures — Add some pick-me-ups to help boost each day. 

Help make the world a better place — Whatever one feels inclined to do, place it on the board. Examples are volunteering or simply working on being a kinder person to those one is surrounded by.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu



Momentum builds for “Greater Idaho” Movement in Eastern Oregon

Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

Senate Joint Memorial 2 —more popularly dubbed the “Greater Idaho” bill— was introduced to the Oregon legislature by Republican Sen. Dennis Linthicum on Jan. 10.​​ 

If passed, the bill will seek out discussions regarding readjustments and relocations of Oregon and Idaho state lines. The bill will not set the secession into motion.

Fifteen eastern counties have been proposed to move to the state of Idaho — together, they take up approximately 65% of Oregon’s land mass and roughly 9% of the population. As of Jan. 11, 2023, 11 of the 15 Eastern Oregon counties have already voted in favor of joining Idaho, including Klamath, Lake, Union, Grant, Sherman, Morrow, Wheeler, Baker, Malheur, Jefferson and Harney. Wallowa County is next in line to vote on the prospect of joining Idaho in their upcoming May election.

The idea behind the “Greater Idaho” bill initially began with the “Greater Idaho” movement — or “Move Oregon’s Border for a Greater Idaho” —  in early 2020, led by Mike McCarter from La Pine, Oregon. The movement’s aim was to convince Oregon legislatures to readjust the Oregon/Idaho border to move conservative Eastern Oregon counties into the state of Idaho — a largely Republican state — in an effort to realign cultural differences.

“Eastern Oregon is culturally, politically, (and) economically much more similar to Idaho than it is to western Oregon,” said Matt McCaw, a spokesperson for the “Greater Idaho” movement. “Our movement is about self-determination and matching people to (the) government that they want and that matches their values.”

Oregon has a long-standing history, with its border set almost 200 years ago. However, McCaw argues that the border was enacted at a time with no cultural and political divisions.

“The policy and the government that works for western Oregon, that western Oregonians want, does not work in eastern Oregon and it’s not what eastern Oregonians want,” said McCaw.

As the “Greater Idaho” movement gains momentum across much of the Eastern Oregon counties, many Oregon residents are left questioning whether such redistricting is likely.

McCaw is confident, stating, “We absolutely believe this is possible … If that does not happen this session then we will keep trying in the next session.”

This is not the first time discussions have occurred regarding changes in state boundaries. 

In 1958, the Oregon boundary between the state of Washington was slightly amended, known as the Senate Joint Resolution 10. The measure authorized the modification of Washington state boundaries along the Columbia River.

According to “Greater Idaho” official website, there are two phases to the movement, the second which includes the eventual merging of Northern California into Idaho’s state line. Northern California counties included in the proposal include all or parts of Siskiyou, Shasta, Tehama, Del Norte, Modoc and Lassen. Such planning, however, would be part of a future phase.

For more information about the “Greater Idaho” movement, visit their official website at www.greateridaho.org, or read the Senate Joint Memorial 2 bill at https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov. 

 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Western Oregon University turns 167

Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

On Jan. 18, Western celebrated its 167th birthday with a small commemoration on the second floor of the Werner University Center.

A table was set up from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., complete with cupcakes and a poster board where students could share a thing or two on what they love about their campus. 

In 2022, Western’s mascot, Wolfie, made his debut appearance at Western’s birthday celebration after having undergone a serious makeover. The change in appearance was enacted in order for Wolfie to more accurately mirror his look in Western advertisements and merchandise.

Although Wolfie could not make it to the event this year, students were nevertheless invited to have their photograph or polaroid taken by a photographer in front of a balloon backdrop.

For a brief history of Western, it was Jan. 18, 1856 — 167 years ago — when 11 Disciples of Christ pioneers signed the charter that established Western Oregon University, then Monmouth University. The founders of Western continue to be honored today; a plaque depicting their image hangs in the lobby of Campbell Hall.

Western’s birthday also brings remembrance to the 24 Presidents in Western’s history, many of whom’s memory remains in the buildings and establishments on campus.

So far in Western history, this is the second birthday celebration hosted by Student Engagement, with more to come in the future.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Get your Study On

Written by:Mikayla Coleman

Two Fish and an Elephant” — Khruangbin

“Shades of Man” — Khruangbin 

“Apollo’s Mood” — The Olympians 

“When We Meet” — Cuco 

“Clair de Lune” — Lofi Fruits Music, Chill Fruits Music

“Wohltemperiertes Klavier (lofi Bach)” — Crazy Monkey

“Stale Cupcakes (From “Animal Crossing”)” — Moisés Nieto

“coffee shop jam” — leon chang

“Pokémon center” — Tee Lopes, GameChops 

“It’s Showtime!” — LewisPlaysGuitar

“Fallen Down” — Toby Fox

“It’s Raining Somewhere Else” — Toby Fox 

“In the summertime” — Lofi Fruits Music, Fets, Avocuddle 

“Steven Universe” — Lofi Fruits Music, Chill Fruits Music

“Stars Wars: Cantina Band” — Lofi Fruits Music, Chill Fruits Music 

“Hideout” — Tesk 

“Sorry, I Like You” — Burbank

“Game over!” — Harris Cole

“Redbone” — DontCry

“Office Pothos Lament” — Louie Zong

“Plantasia” — Mort Garson 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Big INK presents:What a Relief?

Written by: Gretchen Sims 

The most recent exhibit to grace the Cannon Art Gallery is a collaborative project showcasing artists who attended the Whiteaker Printmakers’ BIG INK workshop in Eugene, Oregon. This show will run from Jan. 11 through Feb. 10, 2023. 

BIG INK, founded by Lyell Castonguay and Carand Burnet, began as a small organization teaching the art of printmaking. However, as demand grew, BIG INK was able to fund a transportable press — a feat once deemed impossible and impractical — and now travels across the country creating an outlet for creativity. 

The artists who collabed with BIG INK for the Cannon Art showcase include Eric Fry, Bets Cole, Keith Van Norman, Richard Harrington, Priscilla Montoya, Stephanie Juanillo, Jenna Phillpot, Robert Sumner, Sandi Bonn, Gale Everett, Cory Olsen, Jessica Billey, Erik Sandgren, Tedd Anderson, Joy Kloman and Beth Howe.

There are so many pieces for the show that they are split between the second floor of the Hamersly Library and the Cannon Art Gallery. The pieces in the Cannon Art Gallery can only be viewed from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., but the pieces in the Hamersly Library can be viewed during regular operating hours. 

The prints in the Cannon Art Gallery are the main event. Pieces by Keith Van Norman and Jessica Billey lie against the right wall of the gallery. The prints “What’s so amazing that keeps us stargazing” and “The Tree” are a true inspiration to the viewer.

Directly across from the main entrance, pieces by Erik Sandgren perfectly sweep the viewers’ eyes around the room with their intricate yet freeform designs. 

Finally, on the wall directly to the viewers’ lefts, are prints titled “Zona Rossa,” “Zebra with Oxpeckers (Maasai Mara, Kenya),” “Where the Crawdads Sing,” “A Fish Out of Water,” “Loon,” “The Bicycle” and “Solidarity.” 

Some of the prints are available for purchase, so if interested, be sure to check them out. Supporting local artists is more important now than ever. 

Of course one does not have to be interested in purchasing the art pieces in order to view them, so be sure to pay a visit and check out these talented artists before they are gone.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

A students’ tips for acing scholarship applications

Written by:Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

As of Nov. 1 2022, Western’s General Scholarship Application is open for students seeking financial aid for the 2023-2024 academic year, with a deadline of Mar. 1. If students are discouraged from applying for scholarships, they are not alone. Scholarships tend to be highly competitive, making it seem as if the odds of being awarded one are slim to none. Here are six tips to help make scholarship applications less daunting.

Make an impression. This may seem obvious, but the standard for neatness and specificity in scholarship essays is often ignored. These attributes encompass many aspects of the application process. When filling out scholarship forms, the key is to formulate a chain of working drafts, working off one form in order to perfect the other. When writing an essay, include concrete details and examples of one’s accomplishments. A good rule of thumb to make the writing process smoother is to include the standard “who,” “what,” “where,” “when” and “why.”

Create a list of your good traits. Today, there are scholarships available for nearly every individual trait, from nationality, one’s spoken languages, first generation students and students who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. Students often believe that applying for a broader, general scholarship increases their chances of being awarded. However, students who apply for trait-specific scholarships have a smaller pool of applicants to compete against.

Apply for small awards. If there is a scholarship that fits one’s qualifications but is offering a small award, don’t overlook it. Small awards can add up quickly. In addition, small awards tend to have less competition than larger awards.

Take advantage of ScholarshipUniverse. ScholarshipUniverse, available through the WOU portal, includes an integrated search engine for more than 8000 scholarship opportunities. ScholarshipUniverse has an integrated questionnaire, which narrows down scholarships according to the student’s qualifications and individual traits.

Complete the full application, including the optional work. Many scholarship applications provide students with “optional” application materials, such as essays, letters of recommendation, or even something humorous, such as a joke. While it may sound exhausting to complete this additional and very much optional piece of work, it may increase one’s chances of being awarded against more qualified applicants who failed to complete it.

Reapply. Scholarships are not a one-time deal. Even if a student fails to secure financial aid from a particular scholarship, it is wise to reapply. In fact, the next application process will roll out much smoother than the first application process, considering the student is already well-versed in the process.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Explore Next Door

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Monmouth is at the center of an assortment of towns and cities, giving students an opportunity to explore different places, most of which are only a short drive away. Take a look at the list below for inspiration for one’s next day trip.

Dallas — Bike or walk along the Rickreall Trail System. This trail weaves in and out of trees, parks and along the creek throughout the town. For a bite to eat, go to Spoon N Folks Thai Cuisine for a thai iced tea, noodles or curry — all for a reasonable price. For students over 21 years of age, there are a few bars that have free pool nights as well as darts and karaoke. 

Salem — Try breakfast at Isaac’s Downtown for coffee, bagel sandwiches and pastries. Bush’s Pasture Park is a great place to take a peaceful stroll. The Riverfront Park is another great place for a walk; during the spring one can go down to the dock to feed grown ducks and baby ducklings, then head to Basil and Board for unique individual pizzas for lunch. Whether it’s the mall or a museum, both are great places to kill some time. Sip on a cocktail while sharing an appetizer with friends during happy hour at Ritter’s Housemade Foods. For dinner, have some tacos or pasta at the Masonry Grill.

Corvallis — Grab a cup of coffee and a plant at Greenhouse Coffee and Plants. Pick up a sweet or savory crepe at the Saturday Corvallis Farmers Market. For those who enjoy hiking or mountain biking, the Oregon State University McDonald-Dunn Research Forest is a great place to visit. Have a sandwich and side salad at downtown’s Bodhi Cafe and Bakery. Watch a movie at Darkside Cinema or roll a strike at Highland Bowl. End the day with a burger and fries at Bo and Vine Burger Bar.

McMinnville — This town is full of galleries for those who appreciate art. Those who are 21 and older can enjoy wine tastings and tours at a variety of wineries. Experiment with a variety of “tapas” at La Rambla Restaurant and Bar— warning, it can get pricey. Spend the rest of the time exploring all of the cute shops downtown. 

Lincoln City — The beach is a great place to fly a kite, find shells, explore and relax while watching the sunset. Order a burger and fries at HWY 101 Burger and play a game of pool. If shopping is a hobby, look no further, the Lincoln City Outlets are full of rare and popular stores. There are also lots of shops and restaurants to choose from when walking along the downtown strip. 

Portland — Drive an electric scooter along the riverfront while taking in the beautiful scenery and getting the city feel. Try creative sandwiches at Lardo for lunch. Explore the Alberta Arts District by going into small shops, visiting hidden food trucks then getting a scoop at Salt and Straw Ice Cream. Test one’s capacity for heat with a chicken slider and fries at Dave’s Hot Chicken. Portland has plenty of things to do, just search up one’s desires and chances are that Portland has it. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Pleasing Pasta

Written by: Jude Bokovoy

Searching for a simple, quick and healthy pasta recipe? Take a gander at the recipe below to see if it sounds like it would be up one’s alley. 

LEMON KALE AND PARMESAN RIGATONI

Start to Finish: 15 minutes 

Yields: 2 servings

½ bag of rigatoni 

½ of a lemon

3 large kale leaves

4 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic petals

5 tablespoons parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon seasonings of choice

Start by putting four cups of water into a pot over heat to boil. In the meantime, remove garlic petals from the clove. Smash petals with the back of a knife to flatten then place in a warm pan with two tablespoons of olive oil. When water is boiling, place kale leaves into the pot until soft. It should take around three minutes. When ready, put the kale leaves into a blender by using tongs, then add garlic and olive oil. Add seasonings then blend until smooth. Bring another four cups of water to boil then add pasta to cook. While pasta is cooking, add the sauce into a pan to reheat (if using red pepper flakes this is a great time to add them). Once pasta is done, add to the pan and fold until pasta is evenly coated. Plate then sprinkle with parmesan cheese. One can find a video tutorial on the Tik Tok account @justines.table.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Get to Work

Written by: Mikayla Coleman

First developed by psychoanalyst Carl Jung, shadow work is described by medicalnewstoday.com as a type of therapy that focuses on the shadow self — a hidden or repressed part of the psyche. The goal of shadow work is to combine the shadow self and the present psyche of a person so that repressed impulses can be managed in a healthy way. 

Listed below are a variety of shadow work journal prompts curated to encourage one to better connect with themselves, explore the depths of their history and become more aware of their unconscious mind. 

  • What do you need more of in your life? 
  • When are you hardest on yourself? Where do you think this stems from? 
  • What do you consider yourself to be morally passionate about? Why? 
  • How do you typically react when you are angry? Is this similar to individuals who have been in your life since childhood? 
  • What negative emotions do you avoid? Why? 
  • How do you want people to feel around you? 
  • What are you most passionate about? 
  • What drains you? What excites you? 
  • What are your priorities? 
  • If you could write a letter to a person who hurt you, what would you say? 
  • When did you recognize your parents/guardians are not perfect?
  • How much do you think you rely on external validation? How do you feel you could improve with this? 
  • What do you know today that you did not know about this time last year? 
  • What was your favorite activity as a child? Do you still participate in it? 
  • What things are you looking forward to in your lifetime? 
  • What are qualities and traits in others that you admire?
  • What does being confident look like? What does it feel like? 
  • How do you show compassion to others? How can you extend that same compassion to yourself? 
  • What emotions do you find hardest to accept? How do you handle these emotions? 
  • How do you handle change? Why do you think that is? 
  • How would you define your personal spirituality? 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Campus Job Posting

Written by: Mirella Barrera-Betancourt

Having a tough time finding job opportunities? This winter term, Western is offering various job and volunteer opportunities for students. Full position descriptions can be found in their respective applications. 

Paid Positions

Copy Center Student Employee

Employees answer print requests, prepare print materials for Western community and faculty and provide customer service to patrons. The application can be found on HandShake.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: Jan. 30

Campus Dining Barista

Campus Dining is seeking students to work as cashiers and baristas for The Press and Caffé Allegro. Barista experience is preferred, but not required. The application can be found on HandShake.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: Feb. 1

Leadership Positions

To apply for all four positions, visit https://forms.gle/8w6SocJE1nRREsL78

Campus Ambassador

Campus Ambassadors work directly with prospective students and their families, providing tours and hosting panels, as well as working on Western’s Preview Days. Ambassadors receive spring term training.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: Jan. 31

Destination Western Peer Advisor

Peer Advisors welcome new students to campus through a summer live-in orientation program. Advisors receive spring term training and summer training. The program runs from Sept. 4 to 15. 

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour; $14.18/hour for bilingual workers

Application Deadline: Jan. 31

PLUS Team Peer Advisor

The PLUS Team assists in Summer Orientation and PACK Welcome Week. Members receive spring term training, summer orientation and summer training. Peer advisors must be available during PACK Welcome Week, which runs from Sept. 17 to 23.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour; $14.18/hour for bilingual workers

Application Deadline: Jan 31

Resident Assistant

Resident Assistants work directly with students to provide support and guidance, and are expected to have knowledge of campus resources, good rapport and the ability to work cooperatively with other members of the University Housing staff. Resident Assistants receive spring training and are expected to be available for pre-fall preparations.

Pay Rate: Room and meal plan, plus a stipend of $100/month 

Application Deadline: Jan. 31

Student Building Manager

This student leadership paraprofessional position manages the Werner University Center when Student Engagement professional staff are not present, supports the Student Engagement mission and supervises a number of other student employment positions.

Pay Rate: $14.25/hour

Application Deadline: none

Application Link: https://wou.presence.io/form/student-building-manager-application

Student Custodian

This position does non-technical, entry level cleaning in the Werner University Center.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: none

Application Link: https://wou.presence.io/form/student-engagement-student-employee-job-application

Upwards Bound Student Tutor and Mentor

Upward Bound (TRIO) is a college preparatory program for high school students from low-income and/or first-generation backgrounds. Participants for the mentor program provide tutoring in general high school subjects and provide guidance, information and support to participants in preparing for college.

Pay Rate: $13.50/hour

Application Deadline: none

Application Link: wou.edu/upwardbound/studentpositions/

Volunteer Positions

Multicultural Representatives Mentor

As an MCR mentor, students will serve as a mentor and guide to new students from first generation, low income and/or underrepresented backgrounds. The mentorship position is for the 2023-2024 academic year. 

Application Deadline: Feb. 19

Stitch Closet Volunteer

Volunteers for the Stitch Closet commit to volunteering a minimum of three hours per week for a term. Volunteers assist in restocking clothing racks, keep storage areas organized and clean, helping coordinators process clothing donations and welcome students.

Discover Leadership Mentor

The Discover Leadership Mentor role is a volunteer position that focuses on providing support and mentorship to students enrolled in the Discover Leadership program. Mentors will receive training and must be available for mentor meetings, a Discover Leadership course and scheduled day retreats.

Contact the author at howlnews@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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