The Western Howl – Page 29 – The Western Howl

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

For the past few years, young people have been straying away from trends and exploring their personal style. There is now a place for anyone and everyone to express their identity and interests — the internet. Whether it comes down to curating a unique wardrobe or enjoying a show that dubs you a “geek” or even “Gleek”, it is essential to constantly spark your inner joy and ignore the haters.

Fandom culture has existed for centuries. Fans of the Shakespeare play “King Lear” rewrote the ending simply because they enjoy the tragic conclusion. Similarly, fans of “Sherlock Holmes” are credited for some of the first ever fanfictions and publicly mourning the death of Holmes. These fans have never been spared from criticism, however, today, Beatles fans will ask teenage girls to “name three songs,” when the original Beatles fan base was mainly composed of teenage girls.

Fans have found ways to connect both online and offline. Conventions have served as a meeting place for people with similar interests. The greatest fans will even “cosplay” as their favorite characters with intricate outfits and props. Cosplay became popular on social media apps, but unfortunately, not every cosplayer was well-received. They’re creatively doing something they enjoy, so what’s the harm?

Actually, there can be harm in being a superfan. Fans of the hit TV show “Glee” popularized the show and started calling themselves “Gleeks.” It was all good and fine until the Gleeks began harassing the actors. The leads of the show already had stressful lives: long days of learning songs and choreography led to exhaustion for both the cast and crew.

The same goes for other popular television series, such as “Stranger Things” and “Heartstopper.” Otherwise, cringe is dead — feel free to be a Gleek, as long as respect is at the forefront of your intentions.

The difference between the Shakespearean era and today is the glorious invention of social media. If conventions aren’t accessible, there is another option: talking to people online. The days of posting flyers on theater doors are over, now just a five to ten second video can reach thousands. However, if you’re one of the brave few who share their true self online, the result could be subjection to the hateful words of close-minded people.

The truth is, those people are never going to go away. Whether they appear at school, work or online, the haters are everywhere. If their words are taken to heart and people change because of it, then they’re just being proven right, and the negativity will continue to spread. The most effective course of action is to ignore the hate, respect differences and support each other.

The point I’m trying to make is that it’s draining to constantly be a hater. Reach out to the people around you, and you might find something in common. The universe will align to bring people close to you who will love you for all of your quirks. If you like to make weird noises, seek someone who will do the same.

Whether you’re a theater kid, a cosplayer or a bookworm — there is a place for you. People like you have existed for centuries. Wear unique clothes, find time for niche passions and seek out those who are similar. In ten years, the haters won’t matter, unless you let them crawl into your head and build a home there. What’s important is the people who will let you shine.

Contact the author at howlententertainment@wou.edu

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Ease your mind, ignore everyday villains

Written by: Liberty Miller | Lifestyle Editor

When I was in high school, I went to a bookstore near my hometown and purchased the prettiest book I could find at the reasonable price of $14.95. I had preemptively placed myself in the philosophy section of the bookstore — in the hopes that I could find a small gem of knowledge that would be more valuable than the allowance I was spending on it. What I wasn’t expecting was for that book to shape one of my most treasured life philosophies — one that I would carry all throughout my years leading up until this moment.

When I opened the book, I was met with undecipherable chinese characters and an introduction to “The Way.”

It was a translation of an ancient Chinese philosophy created by Lao Tzu, and when I flipped to page 122, entry 67, I read, “I myself have three treasures at hand; I keep a firm grasp on them, and protect them as I would a child carried on my back. The first, I say, is nurturing love. The second, I say, is unpretentiousness. The third, I say, is not pushing myself ahead in the world. Because of nurturing love, you are capable of courage that flows forth; Because of unpretentiousness, you are capable of being expansive; Because of not pushing yourself ahead in the world, you are capable of having the stature of an elder among people of ability.” (Tao Te Ching)

The translation of the book, and perhaps the clear and precise manner in which Lao Tzu originally created his work, seemed to be applicable even thousands of years later in the life of a 15-year-old girl.

The first principle, nurturing love, can be presented in many ways. Unconditional positive regard, loyalty, kindness, compassion and affection are some ways to demonstrate nurturing love in your everyday life.

As an athlete, I do my best to show this by speaking positively about opposing teams. In my everyday life, I refrain from speaking spitefully and instead, praise and include others with kind regard.

This is an incredible principle to incorporate into daily life. In a world where there is an abundance of criticism, negativity and needless bullying, one has the power to reject these ideals, reject the idea that complaining or talking badly about others is a rite of passage or means of assimilation.

There is nothing more satisfying than having love and appreciation for the world and the people in it; it is there that we can find peace.

The second principle, unpretentiousness — living life humbly and without status. We live in a world where our accomplishments and social standing are measured constantly by those we know or people who live across the world.

Social media, academic and athletic awards, jobs, internships, houses and apartments, relationships, friendships, money, age and beauty — countless ideals and standards that hold everyone hostage on a daily basis. The way to freedom is to let these things go.

When ego takes over, it’s easy for one to forget where they started, see where they are and act as if it is their right to be there. How I think about it is, the world is not, in fact, my oyster; instead, it is my classroom. If I let go of my ego — my need for status and adopt the mindset of a beginner — I will be leaps and bounds ahead of those who don’t want to learn, only to achieve. If I lose my need to be better, I can become the best as an individual, NOT comparing myself to others and unattainable standards.

The third principle — not pushing oneself ahead in the world. Going hand-in-hand with the previous principle, what this means to me is prioritizing the “we”: supporting other human beings over self interest.

Biologically, our species depends on each other for survival, whether we like it or not. Bonds are what make up what we call life. In the process of putting myself first, I would tend to forget those around me who built the staircase of life that I climb.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it wasn’t built by one person either. The credit for who we are today goes to those who supported us along the way. In this manner, we can follow this principle by giving credit to those who helped build our staircase, helped write the chapters in our story.

As a disclaimer, no one born on earth in any era will fully claim to have mastered this philosophy.

We are fickle, we are human and we are flawed. Everyone has been a Regina George — been the opposite of everything we’ve discussed thus far. But, even the smallest of actions can be the building blocks towards a more rewarding and happy life. I think one will find if they try their best to go about life with love, gratitude and friendship, they will be more at peace with themselves than ever before.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

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Off the deep end

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

Wanting to find an opportunity to get back in the water? Look no further than the Health and Wellness Center for an enthusiastic, tight-knit community that spends two days a week in the pool together. The Western Swim Club offers new experiences to swimmers of all levels. It doesn’t matter if one has been on a competitive swim team or has never dipped their toes in a pool before — the members of the Swim Club are here to help along the way.

Swimming stands out from many other sports and offers unique opportunities for members. Because the exercise takes place in water, there are so many therapeutic benefits to swimming. Just submerging oneself in the water increases blood flow to the brain, improving memory, concentration and mood. Swimming may be a healthy outlet for college students during stressful weeks.

Learning how to swim may be an intimidating experience. Not everyone is going to be able to swim a 100-meter freestyle with flip turns in a minute the first time they enter the pool. Swim Club is a fantastic place to practice the basics, with new friends to cheer you on along the way.

If swimming laps aren’t preferable, there are many other fun aspects to Western’s Swim Club. There are days in the schedule dedicated to team building with activities such as relay races, water polo and playing fun water games, such as sharks and minnows. The annual Swim-A-Thon is also an opportunity to engage in exciting games and get to know team members.

Maximus Sing, the president of Western’s Swim Club, spoke about his philosophy in regard to creating a great team and environment. “I have three things that go with any sport — learn to play the game the right way, make yourself better every day and have fun,” Sing said. The Swim Club officers are all eager to start competing with other schools, such as University of Oregon and Oregon State University. Before the club is competition ready, the swimmers have to focus on bettering themselves and each other.

No matter one’s level of swimming, there are many people eager to help. “Winter term is a clean slate… it’s not too late to start to learn how to swim because we can teach you,” Sing said.

The Health and Wellness Center pool is waiting for new members to dive in.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

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Basketball on tap

Written by: Jaylin Hardin | Sports Editor

Men’s basketball battled hard against Linfield University this last Tuesday, ultimately pulling out the win and bringing the team to a 3-3 record.

Western scored a two-pointer in the first 10 seconds of the game, but Linfield responded with their own. The teams battled back and forth in the first half, Western attempting to pull ahead and having the most possessions. For every point Linfield scored, Western quickly answered back. The first half ended in a close score of 34-33, in favor of Western.

The second half started out just as strong for the team — putting in substitutions to help their winded starters — and Western scored a three pointer within the first minute. However, two free throws brought Linfield closer to a tie soon after.

In the last 12 minutes, missed shots, turnovers and steals in favor of Linfield narrowed the already small lead Western had managed to keep all game. A three-pointer by Linfield player, Joshua Ryan, tied the teams up at 53 and was quickly answered with a layup from Western Junior, Qiant Myers. Linfield pulled ahead with a three-pointer not even 30 seconds later.

More missed shots from Western helped Linfield pull ahead, where they managed to either keep the lead or stay close with Western on the scoreboard.

It was two free throws from Myers that managed to bring the team back into the lead, after being fouled by Linfield player, Garret Callsen. Western continued to keep this lead through the rest of the game.

The game finished in favor of Western, 80-71, with the team’s largest lead being 10.

Qiant Myers was the point leader for Western, scoring 19 on the night. The GNAC defensive player of the week also had 10 assists and five steals.

The previous week, Myers had the first triple-double of NCAA DII play this season; with 14 points, 13 assists and 11 rebounds. A triple-double occurs when all three of a player’s stats are all double-digit numbers.

Western’s other point leaders included senior Cameron Benzel and junior Kris Cook, who had 18 and 15 points respectively. Benzel and Cook also performed both of Western’s dunks for the night, both of which occurred in the second half.

Western shot 57.1 percent in the field, only making five of 20 three-pointers, and totaled 27 rebounds.

Men’s basketball plays again on Nov. 30 against Central Washington University at 5:15 p.m. in New PE. The game will be streamed live on WOUTV.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

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Christmas consumerism

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

With every passing year, Christmas decorations begin to appear in stores across the country earlier and earlier, screaming — buy me. Department store Santas invite children to sit on their laps while anxious parents buy last minute gifts to put under their decked-out trees. The genuine significance of the holiday lies far beyond neon lights and Black Friday sales — if you simply dig a little deeper.

Scrambling together enough money from last month’s paycheck to pay for gifts isn’t the only Christmas stressor. Many families prepare their homes to look home magazine-perfect before their extended relatives come to visit. Then, there’s the Christmas dinner and listening to Uncle Craig talk about politics again. For many Americans, Christmas is an anxiety-inducing time of year.

However, it doesn’t have to be. Many have lost sight of the lessons the holiday season is supposed to teach. The capitalist society of America has driven Christmas to the forefront of minds even before Halloween. The earliest I’ve seen Christmas decorations arrive in stores is right after the Fourth of July passes.

Something about the green and red popping up reminds consumers of the money they have to spend — or probably shouldn’t spend — on holiday goods. The truth is, Christmas is an easy holiday to commercialize. Companies are smart; they know what people like to buy, and that is nostalgia. That little rush of dopamine is what fuels companies during the holidays.

What was it that made Christmas so special as a child? Was it really the presents under the tree, or was it the traditions made with friends and family? Looking back, my fondest memories were reading “The Night Before Christmas” with my dad and baking cookies for our neighbors with my mom. Though waiting up for Santa to deliver toys was fun, too.

This year, many have taken to the internet to show off their handmade Christmas gifts from items they already had at home to inspire others to do the same. Garlands can be made out of dried oranges or paper stars. You can even create unique wrapping paper out of recycled paper bags and personalize each present with doodles. The opportunities for creating are endless.

Many Christmas gifts are bought simply to check another person off the list, without considering their interests.

Stephen Hartley, a junior at Western, discussed this dilemma. “If you buy something, don’t buy it for storage,” he said. “And that’s most of what Christmas gifts are, to add to the consumerism.” Though it seems like time is extremely finite at this point in the year, try to consider what each person you’re shopping for would find personal, so their gifts don’t end up in the landfill.

You don’t need to buy an “ugly” sweater from Old Navy you’ll only wear once, the point is to peruse your grandmother’s closet for a new favorite hand-me-down. And if you don’t go to the stores, they will come to you first — “I got an email today… about getting ‘extra spending points’ if I buy things between Nov. 30 and Dec. 7… it’s like oh, I’m already getting advertisements personalized,” Hartley said.

So, be extra careful around the holidays when it comes to spending money. Chances are, you already have all the materials for a festive time somewhere in your home.

I love giving and receiving gifts as much as the next person. However, what makes Christmas truly special is the people you spend it with. Hartley countered this opinion — “I think you don’t have to have a holiday… to celebrate with people you love. If I want to see people, I’m going to see people.”

Especially for college students, going home for the holidays is more sweet than ever. As an out-of-state student, I cherish every moment I am able to spend with my family and friends at home. Sometimes the rush of school, work and making travel plans does get in the way of what my winter break means to me.

This holiday season, take a moment to reflect on spontaneous spending habits and think about what you’re participating in. I’m not telling you to not buy any presents — that would make me a Scrooge. Gift receivers would appreciate something more sentimental rather than a stocking stuffer that will be thrown away, or even re-gifted. Don’t deny it — we’ve all been there.

It’s a tough task to face when advertisements are constantly in your face, tempting you to constantly give in to buying goodies. I understand the difficulties concerning consumerism around the holidays. There’s a bright future ahead, however, that is more sustainable and still includes everything we love about Christmas today.

If you blink, you’ll miss the magical aspects of the season. I still look forward to playing with my grandma’s handmade Christmas countdown just like I did when I was little. My grandpa still marks the See’s Candy as being delivered from “Santa,” and I love to see him happy when I play along with it. The joy of Christmas is found within the delight you bring to others.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

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A change for entertainment

Written by: Taylor Duff | Freelancer

Back in March of 2023, an article was released called “Writers are not keeping up” — published by the Writers Guild of America contract. This article was the start of the Writer’s Strike, expressing how writers are feeling devalued and objectified in harsh work environments, including tiny rooms and decreased pay as well as being overworked.

The demand for writers is based on the switch to streaming from many if not most, entertainment channels. Because of the high demand, another complaint is the lack of experienced writers being hired to fill the gaps — with below or bare minimum pay giving the green light to have an excuse to pay less.

Writers have also stated they have felt like second class to the actors and directors — being undervalued in the workplace despite doing double the amount of work and hours.

As a result of this strike taking place, the Screen Actor Guild also went on strike, and actors across all platforms made statements and interviews about the unfair treatment and harassment of their writers and staff.

Actors such as Amanda Seyfried, Rob Lowe and Wonda Sykes all stood in solidarity with the writers during the protest. One main reason the actors joined the strike with the writers was to address the use of AI versions of themselves; using their likeness for gain in media. The SAG strike lasted until Nov. 9 of this year, meaning both WGA and SAG strikes are now over. WAG reached a tentative agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers back in September, and slowly but surely, they reached an agreement with the Screen Actors Guild as well.

As for what this means for entertainment, the agreement is effective in protecting writers and giving proper residuals for international viewing. Due to streaming becoming the new wave of entertainment, the agreement takes effect now giving proper pay toward its writers with the royalties standing in their favor.

Many movies will be delayed due to the strike shutting down production studios, with many directors and producers walking out. TV shows may resume, but will also be pushed back for months without new episodes. As for actors, the agreement gives them more security knowing they are protected against their likeness being used.

As for the future of entertainment, the WGA contract term will be in effect until May 2026 — keeping in effect this protection for the people behind the entertainment consumed.

Contact the author at tduff23@mail.wou.edu

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The season’s effect on depression

Written by: Libby Thoma | Freelance Writer

Seasonal depression — diagnosably known as Seasonal Affective Disorder is a disorder where depression levels fluctuate through seasons. Usually, throughout the winter or the colder months, a person’s depression will increase, while subsequently, the person’s depression will decrease during summer or warm months.

Generally, seasonal depression lasts about 40% of the year. It is thought the specific causes of seasonal depression disorder are less sun and the change to shorter days, causing a chemical change in the brain, leading to higher rates of depression. Melatonin and serotonin are found to play a role in causing depression, and the body produces more melatonin and less serotonin when it is dark out.

Seasonal depression is a common form of depression, with about 5% of people over the age of 18 having seasonal depression, but it is rarer in children. Seasonal depression disorder affects a high amount of college students specifically — affecting approximately 25% of college students. The most common symptoms of seasonal depression include sleepiness, lowering of interest and pleasure, withdrawal, decreased concentration, weight gain or loss, headaches and stomach aches.

The symptoms can have a great impact on college students’ learning, and because such a great number of college students experience the disorder, sharing ways to deal with this disorder is important.

For all people suffering from this disorder, there are three main treatments for seasonal depression. Firstly, finding sunlight is important — whether this is through soaking up sunlight whenever possible, light therapy, or even, at the least, taking some Vitamin D.

Psychotherapy, a therapy that assists a person with recognizing and altering emotions, thoughts and behaviors, is another treatment option. The third treatment is using medication such as antidepressants, which can be accessed through Western’s Student Health and Counseling Center.

There are also ways college students specifically can help their disorder. These include maintaining a regular bedtime, creating a balanced school and sleep life, going to the SHCC for help and more.

Seasonal depression disorder should not just be put off as “the winter blues”. It is an actual disorder that is very real and can have intense effects on people and is important to address. Seasonal depression’s negative effects on a person can get in the way of learning but more importantly, quality of life. If anyone is experiencing this, reach out for help, and don’t brush the disorder off as something trivial.

Contact the author at ethoma@wou.edu

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Cringe is dead, enjoy what you want

Ease your mind, ignore everyday villains

Off the deep end

Basketball on tap

Christmas consumerism

The season’s effect on depression

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