With the Halloween holiday comes many things — costumes, decorations, scary movies and stories — but it also brings in the chance to tell some fun, themed jokes to make others laugh during the spooky season. Read on to find some funny Halloween jokes and puns we’ve compiled here at “The Western Howl.”
“Do you want to know how to get a significant other during Halloween? You make sure they’re screaming without the s.”
“Are you a vampire? Cause you’re a pain in the neck.
“The maker of this product does not want it, the buyer does not use it, and the user does not see it. What is it? A coffin.”
“What did the ghost say to their psychiatrist? I used to be somebody.”
“What do you call two witches living together? Broommates.”
“How do you get rid of demons? Exorcise a lot.”
“Where is a skeleton the most ticklish? Their funny bone.”
“Why did the ghost go into the bar? For the Boos.”
“What’s it called when a ghost has trouble with his house? A grave problem.”
“Why didn’t the skeleton go to the scary movie? He didn’t have the guts.”
Due to suggestions from students, Hamersly Library extends hours, ensuring students have access to facilities
Stephanie Moschella | Digital Media Manager & Cora McClain | Editor-in-Chief
Starting Sep. 27, Hamersly Library opened its doors past closing to Western students and affiliates. In addition to the 24-hour room being available, Hamersly will be open for additional evening and late night hours: Monday – Wednesday 6 p.m. – 12 a.m., Saturday 4 p.m. – 9 p.m., and Sunday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Students have already begun using these extra hours and resources, found across all three floors of the library.
Pre-nursing first-year Finn Jennings explained that the extended hours would give more access to library resources. “There are more opportunities to check out books,” Jennings said, “if you forget, you can come in late.”
Along with increased access to library resources, these hours also give students another place to go to get work done or gather safely for group work. The study rooms in the library have been reopened with mask requirements, even if students use them alone. Reservations for study rooms can be done online or by calling the library. Walk-ins are available, but they work on a first come first serve basis.
First-year education major Alexis MenkeBowers said she will be using the extended hours a lot.
“I only get stuff done if I’m in a third location,” MenkeBowers explained, “I’m not very good at keeping myself accountable in my room.”
Jordan Bell, first-year psychology major, agreed that the ability to study in a different location is beneficial, “especially for students who have a roommate who isn’t quiet, or who can’t work in their room.”
Run entirely by student employees, Hamersly will only be available for people affiliated with Western. Working closely with campus security, student employees ensure a Western-only library during the nighttime hours. Before entering the building, all must show their Western IDs in the lobby. If students do not have their IDs on them, they can also successfully log in to their portal on a shared laptop at the new concierge desk.
The additional hours also created new student employment opportunities, such as the peer advocate. A peer advocate is the stand in lead of the library once all Western faculty leaves. They are the most trained person that can aid anyone coming into the library and are essential in training new student employees as well. Peer advocates perform regular walkthroughs of the entire library, establishing safeguards to check that patrons are adhering to mask mandates and the Western exclusive rules.
Public services librarian Janeanne Rockwell-Kincanon described how, during the 2020–21 school year, multiple groups of students criticized the shortened library hours. Many students explained how they were in need of the free and public resources. The additional hours were opened because students showed an interest in late night hours.
For instance, sophomores Lindie Larson and Kaiya Leamy, social science major and biology major respectively, explained how Western athletes benefit from these hours.
“We’re both student athletes so we can fit (these hours) around our schedules with practices,” said Larson; “especially on the weekends,” Leamy added.
Hamersly Library is taking steps to adapt to students’ needs with these extended hours. Not only are the resources available, but they are being managed in a safe way. As Rockwell-Kincanon described, it is “a student run library, for students.”
A place for connection, understanding and learning about heritage and culture
Mikayla Coleman | News Editor
Oct. 1 marked the opening of Western’s Freedom Center. Located in the Werner University Center, the Freedom Center is meant to be a physical space in which students of color are able to find refuge. While this is the main purpose of the Freedom Center, different clubs and organizations that are culturally specific are able to use the space to hold meetings and collaborate with one another.
The road to the opening of the Freedom Center proved to be a treacherous longhaul. Students have been advocating for the creation of a space like the Freedom Center for quite some time.
“It has been a project that has been requested by the students for a very long time, and to finally have it shows all the hard work that past and current students put into it,” said Elisa Tenido, Associated Students of Western Oregon University Director of Multicultural Advocacy.
The establishment of the Freedom Center is hoped to expand cultural competency among everyone on Western’s campus, something that many believe has been lacking for far too long. The Freedom Center is expected to be a place where students can make connections based on cultural backgrounds, whether they are similar to or different from one another.
“As a Filipino, I do not know a lot of other Filipinos on campus and the (Freedom Center) provides a space where we can meet,” said Tenido.
The Freedom Center was officially opened by co-founders senior communications studies major Makana Ripley and junior social science major Arlette Topia Lopez with a ceremony and cake pops.
In the same way that Western works hard to ensure the comfortability of everyone on campus — taking this step will allow a safe space in which students are able to talk about differences and make connections between the vast amount of different traditions and heritages students bring with them when they come here to pursue their higher education.
For those who have experienced racial profiling or discrimination, it can be hard to explain and make connections with people who have not had to experience those hardships.
“Personally it is hard for me to put into words how important this space is for people of color. When people of color talk about their experiences with non-people of color, there always seems to be this layer of explaining that is done … explaining why something is funny or why something is offensive,” said Tenido.
The Freedom Center hopes to be able to bridge these gaps through growth in knowledge and understanding.
“Having the (Freedom Center) takes away that layer because people of color can just talk about their experience or something funny that happened when they were growing up or (compare) random cultural superstitions,” said Tenido. “It is a space for students of color to be seen by other students of color to share and bond.”
With a lineup of exciting activities, homecoming 2021 is sure to not disappoint
Mikayla Coleman | News Editor
Homecoming week is upon us. This student favorite, which has been at Western for a century, is back and will not disappoint. Oct. 5 – 9 marks a week jam packed with exciting and engaging activities leading up to the big game and the crowning of Wolf Royalty on Saturday.
Homecoming is much more than just a football game. “Having something where we can come together and kind of have fun and unite over something, even if you’re not into sports, it’s a good excuse to dress up, put on your WOU shirt, or whatever,” said Antonia Scholerman, the Homecoming Events adviser.
Homecoming this year has a more emphasized meaning. Due to COVID-19, almost all students were off campus last year and were unable to attend or participate in the traditional activities, like football games.
In our ever-changing COVID world, we are learning to adapt; and homecoming, like most other on campus events, has had to adapt as well. For example, the Power Puff game was replaced this year with a dodgeball tournament. This exciting addition to homecoming week also proves to be more inclusive.
“Typically Power Puff was only open to female-identifying students and so (now) anyone of any gender can participate in the dodgeball games,” Scholerman said.
While homecoming events are important in growing and strengthening the community of students at Western, it is also a way for students to get connected with their off campus community in Monmouth. The activity that best exemplifies this is Paint the Town Red in which students will paint the windows of local businesses in downtown Monmouth. Student groups sponsor these windows and they will be judged against one another. The winner will be announced during a pizza party for the participating groups. This process of collaboration between these businesses, making a very physical and bold show of support for students at Western, reaps a mutual benefit.
Every year there are nominations of students, by students — six of whom will end up on the 2021 Homecoming Court. After the court is established, these students will fill out a questionnaire and have interviews to allow students and staff to better get to know them and their values. Once those are filled out, voting forms will be sent out to all students so they can vote for the two finalists who will be crowned Wolf Royalty.
For the full rundown of homecoming events, check out our calendar below.
The recent return to campus life leaves many students questioning just what extracurricular activities are resuming for fall term. Intramural sports have made a strong willed return.
Intramural sports programs are open to all Western students, faculty, staff and spouses. They are a great option for those who want to participate in sports, but may not necessarily have the commitment level or developed skill set for a school sports program.
“Intramurals fill a unique void. There are no practices, no coaches — it’s just show up and have fun and play with your friends,” said Andy Main, assistant director for Campus Recreation.
Intramurals have less emphasis on qualities that make sports a stressful event and weigh more on getting involved within the campus community.
“It’s a unique way to blow off steam, maybe take your mind off of a stressful final coming up — for me, most importantly is to meet and bond and get to know new people,” Main said.
Western’s intramural program has thirteen different sports that they are currently recruiting for. Each sport does have a cost associated with it depending on the scope of the league, tournament or event. This fall term they plan to offer many exciting in person events including Badminton League, Corn Hole League and Volleyball League. Amidst the pandemic panic we have all endured, they also plan to grow with the technical times and implement two virtual sports and activities: the NCAA Bowl Game Pick’em and esports.
Hey, Western. Here we are again, the start of another year, this one my last.
Going into my fourth year on “The Western Howl,” third year as Editor-in-Chief, and the 99th year since the conception of Student Media at Western, there are a lot of expectations for us at the Howl, as well as for me.
Since it’s my senior year and I will not be able to return next year, it’s my job to find and prepare the next Editor-in-Chief for producing the centennial volume of the Howl.
So, while I am focused on this, I might make a few errors along the way. For instance, this letter.
I’m so sorry for my letter from the Editor not making it into Volume 4, Issue 1. Unfortunately, there just wasn’t room in Issue 1 for this letter, as the issue was overwhelmed with an amazing flood of creativity and passion from the new writing staff.
You should know the drill by now Western: new year, new staff.
I’m so very excited to be working with all of the fresh perspectives from senior integrated English studies major Sarah Austin, junior English studies major Mikayla Coleman, and senior political science major Camille Lenning. I am especially looking forward to sophomore English studies major Mirella Barrera-Betancourt pioneering the new position of staff writer and helping to develop what this position entails.
At the same time, I am very lucky to have some key returning figures to help train and guide our staff through some major transitions. Senior interdisciplinary studies major Rylie Horrall returns as our Managing Editor and currently designs our issues in the absence of a designer. Stephanie Moschella, senior social science major, is once again our Digital Media Manager and taking over as photo editor in the absence of one. Allison Vanderzanden, senior English studies major, takes up a new role as Copy Editor this year.
Overall, this staff looks very strong in creativity and passion, as well as skill and experience. Just looking at Issue 1, I can already tell that this is going to be a great year for the Howl to expand and build after surviving heavy budget cuts, staff reductions and product downsizes.
Speaking of expanding, let’s get back to those transitions I mentioned.
Firstly, I am overjoyed to welcome our new adviser, William McDonald-Newman, to Student Media. Though he’s learning the ropes, he has already proven to be a big help to me and the staff.
Secondly, reading through this issue, it is pretty noticeable that we are expanding back to a 12 page issue. However, this could fluctuate back to eight pretty regularly.
Thirdly, flipping through this issue, it’s obvious that we are printing once again. New weekly issues will be found at newsstands and on tables around campus and Monmouth. Be on the lookout for these issues and don’t be afraid to pick one or two up; after all, they are for you, Western. Find a full list of our on and off campus distribution locations on our Instagram @thewesternhowl and website wou.edu/westernhowl.
Fourthly, we will not have a Sports section again this year, at least not a regular weekly section. Instead, the Howl will feature more special or limited sections; Issue 1 featured a Culture section, and Issue 2, a Homecoming section.
Finally, we are using new emails with our own domain, something we are very excited about. These will be the official Western Howl emails from now on. Please be patient with us while we are figuring out some technical issues with emails bouncing back.
That’s all for the changes we have made so far. If any more come up, Western, you will be the first to know.
Big things are coming, Western, and I am so excited to share them with you.
Smith Fine Arts Series returns to Rice Auditorium with COVID-19 safety precautions
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Smith Fine Arts Series is entering its 44th season this October, and it’s making a triumphant return to in person performances after switching to an online format in March 2020.
Lisa Schachter, director of the Smith Fine Arts Series, is in charge of operations and fundraising, and has been working hard to get performances running again. Among her other duties, Schachter was also involved with implementing Smith Fine Arts Series’ COVID-19 safety guidelines.
“Once we got clearance that we were going to actually be able to start doing things in the performing arts hall, but with a lot of limitations, that’s when we knew we could move forward with the artists and (get) in touch with them,” Schachter said. “The musicians and artists are all very anxious to get back on stage, we just wanted to make sure we did it safely.”
Schachter asserted that Smith Fine Arts Series will strictly follow Western’s COVID guidelines, including: requiring vaccine cards upon entry to Rice Auditorium; declining to serve food or drinks before, during or after performances so that masks can be worn at all times; cancelling intermissions during shows to reduce crowding in the lobby; and closing seating within the first three rows of the auditorium to allow social distancing between artists and the audience.
Andi Moring, a senior math and theatre double major at Western, has worked as the program assistant for 18 months. Hired right before the pandemic began, she had never worked on ⏤ nor seen ⏤ an in person performance from Smith Fine Arts Series.
“I’m taking ticket orders now, which I’d never done prior to this,” Moring said. “It’s so much more exciting to be like ‘Yes, I’ll take your ticket orders for these shows that we will have.’”
Though Moring has little experience dealing with an in person Smith Fine Arts production, she remains optimistic.
“I’m a little nervous, but I’m really excited to see a show and interact with people, that’s one of my favorite things in life,” said Moring.
Smith Fine Arts Series performance lineup for its 44th season
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Smith Fine Arts Series is known as a haven for the arts, and its top quality productions are returning to present a variety of diverse performances for all ages.
Halie Loren(Friday, Oct. 8) — A multilingual singer-songwriter with eight albums to her name, Loren has received international critical acclaim for her jazz musical stylings.
Vianna Bergeron Brazilian Jazz (Saturday, Dec. 4) — Known for performing a diverse mix of Brazilian music genres, this band features vocalist Rosi Bergeron, saxophonist Tom Bergeron, pianist Cassio Vianna, bassist Wagner Trindade and drummer Cam Siegal.
Rainbow Dance Theatre(Friday, Jan. 14) — This Oregon-based dance company will perform their “20 in 2020” repertory show, choreographed for their 20 year anniversary tour, which was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Seamus Egan Project (Saturday, March 12) — Specializing in Irish folk music, Egan has redefined the genre through his mastery of Irish flute, guitar, mandolin, tenor banjo and other instruments. He will be joined by Scottish fiddler Jenna Moynihan, guitarist Kyle Sanna and guitarist, banjoist, mandolinist Owen Marshall.
Thalea String Quartet(Saturday, April 2) — This group of internationally renowned musicians brings timeless music to all audiences, featuring violinist Christopher Whitley, violinist Kumiko Sakamoto, violaist Lauren Spaulding and cellist Titilayo Ayangade.
The Thornette David Band(Saturday, June 4) — A blues legend, Davis has been on the scene since 1987 and will be performing with her seven piece band.
All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Day of show ticket sales begin as early as 6 p.m. Advance ticket purchases are $28 for adults, day of show tickets are $33 and both options are $10 for non-Western students. Those with a valid Western student ID can get their tickets free of charge, just make sure to show up early to book a seat. Call the Smith Fine Arts Series’ office at 503-838-8333 with any questions.
A soundtrack for watching the leaves fall compiled by The Howl staff
The Western Howl Collective
The autumn season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate the leaves changing than with a new playlist to listen to throughout the season? “The Western Howl” staff has compiled some of their favorite fall songs they like to listen to. To check this playlist out and others we have created, find us on Spotify @TheWesternHowl.
“Sweater Weather” — The Neighborhood
“고엽” or “Autumn Leaves” / “Dead Leaves” — BTS
“TT” — TWICE
“Dearly Departed” — Marianas Trench
“Witchcraft” — Pendulum
“Wake Me Up When September Ends” — Green Day
“We Close Our Eyes” cover — Ninja Sex Party
“Heather” — Conan Gray
“we fell in love in october” — girl in red
“Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” — Cage The Elephant
“Zombie” — The Cranberries
“Candy” — The Presidents Of The United States Of America
“Heads Will Roll” — Yeah Yeah Yeahs
“Witch Love” — Nico Yaryan
“In A Week” — Hozier ft. Karen Cowley
“Pumpkin” — The Regrettes
“Pumpkins Scream In the Dead of the Night” — Savage Ga$p and 93FEETOFSMOKE ft. shinigami
A student’s guide to managing feeling homesick while living away from home
Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer
While COVID-19 continues on its rampage around the world with the recent emergence of the delta variant, college students have held out and moved back to campus for in person classes. Although most welcome the change, many first-year students have taken the biggest hit. Following the events of virtual classes in 2020 and 2021, more college students than ever are having to endure a stressful change in schedule and routine. Here are four tips on managing homesickness while away at college.
Connect with family and friends back home. A good way to combat feelings of homesickness is to find ways to stay in touch with family members. An easy way to do so is by taking advantage of today’s technology and video chatting with friends and family. Seeing a familiar face in the midst of unfamiliarity has proven to be cathartic in more than one way. For those who live closer to home, setting up a time to meet up with family in person is also as effective.
Establish a routine and familiarise oneself with the new surroundings. College students can spend up to nine months at a time on their college campus, sometimes more. It is important that students learn to establish a set routine that makes their temporary living situation feel more like home. Walk around campus and become familiar with scenery and surroundings. Explore the town that will be called home for the next few years, such as grocery stores, restaurants and retail stores.
Get involved in campus activities by joining clubs, community organizations and volunteering. Everyone wants to be welcomed and feel a sense of belonging. Getting a job or joining clubs or other student organizations is a great way to combat feelings of homesickness. It keeps the mind occupied while also providing comfort and security. Western is home to more than 60 clubs and organizations, so students are sure to find something that reflects personal passions.
Take advantage of campus resources. Many first-year or transfer students do not take advantage of the resources their university provides. Western is proud to have their WOU Ambassadors, which work with the Admissions Office on campus to provide campus tours, help with preview days as well as other various on campus activities. Sometimes feelings of homesickness can be brought on by stress. When classes or workload gets tough, or if one is in need of a much needed emotional or psychological break, the Student Health and Counseling Center is open for virtual and in person appointments from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. to provide counseling. Western is also home to the PLUS team — students who welcome first-year students during orientation, New Student Week and registration. The PLUS team is there to serve any students in need of guidance, and are always willing to help make college a happy and healthy experience.
Understanding the pros and cons of caffeine consumption amongst college students
Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer
Classes at Western are underway, and with them has initiated the caffeine rush so many university students experience. Studies have found that over 50% of university students consume caffeinated beverages daily. With coffee being a staple in almost every student’s diet and lifestyle, it is important to consider the potential health benefits — and detriments — of drinking it, including what it could mean for students’ bank accounts and mental energy.
Pro: Boosts metabolism
Coffee, specifically black coffee, contains chlorogenic acid, which has been linked with lowering glucose levels. This kick starts metabolism, eventually leading to weight loss. That being said, coffee must be consumed in moderation in order for it to take effect. The recommended amount of coffee is 400 milligrams per day.
Con: Increases anxiety levels and the likelihood of panic attacks
Caffeine is a stimulant drug, and while it keeps one awake, consuming too much, or even the recommended amount, can lead to jitteriness, muscle twitches, heart palpitations and even an increased likelihood of panic attacks.
Pro: Decreases the risk of Alzheimer’s and Type 2 diabetes
People who drink a moderate amount of coffee are 65% less likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. As for diabetes, the antioxidants found in coffee can aid in boosting metabolism and insulin levels, which can help keep insulin levels from plummeting.
Con: Loss of sleep
Caffeine has been found to disrupt the REM sleep cycle, as well as one’s circadian rhythm — which is the body’s internal alarm clock. Add that to the little amount of sleep many students already experience due to exams and assignments and it can all become a big hassle. To avoid this, it is better to consume caffeine in the mornings.
Pro: Increase in memory retention, focus and mental energy
Small doses of caffeine in the system can help with minor attention issues, such as being unable to focus during lessons or difficulty with storing information. It increases levels of alertness, and in dire circumstances, can help one remain awake with a boost of energy.
Con: The cost adds up over time
Caffeinated beverages are expensive, especially if bought from popular coffee chains. If consumed daily, perhaps it is best to make a pot at home.
Apple cider is a classic fall drink. What better way to kick off the new term and get cozy than with a nice warm mug? These simple recipes require few ingredients and a stove, hot plate or instant pot so it can even be done in the dorm — no juicer or apple press needed. With leftovers lasting in the refrigerator for up to two days, or in the freezer up to three weeks, enjoy these ciders for the whole season.
APPLE CIDER SANGRIA
Start to finish: 2 ½ hours
Yields: 6 – 8 servings
1 bottle of pinot grigio (750 milliliters)
2 ½ cups premade apple cider
2 honey crisp apples
2 granny smith apples
1 cup cranberries
Rosemary sprigs (optional)
Cinnamon stick
Slice all apples.
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, add in pinot grigio, apple cider, apple slices, cranberries, rosemary sprigs if desired and cinnamon sticks.
Stir together 2 minutes and place in the refrigerator for 2 hours before serving.
To serve, pour into a cup and spoon some of the fruit slices into beverage then garnish with cinnamon stick and a rosemary sprig. Remember to drink responsibly.
Recipe from The College Housewife
HOMEMADE APPLE CIDER
Start to finish: 3 hours
Yields: 8 – 12 servings
10 – 12 apples, any type
1 ½ tablespoons cinnamon
1 tablespoon allspice
½ cup sugar or sweetener substitute
Cut apples into large chunks then put in a large pot. Fill water 2 – 3 inches over the top of the apples. Add in cinnamon, allspice and sugar and mix. Bring to a boil and watch for 1 hour. Cover pot and reduce heat to low and simmer for two hours — the longer it simmers, the stronger the taste. Strain apple cider to remove food waste then stir. Serve warm or refrigerate and serve cold.
Recipe from OCB Blog
INSTANT POT VEGAN APPLE CIDER
Start to finish: 30 minutes
Yields: 8 servings
4 apples, gala, fuji or any sweet red
1 orange
2 cinnamon sticks or 1 teaspoon cinnamon
5 – 6 cloves
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
5 – 6 dates or 1 – 2 tablespoons sweetener
½ inch fresh ginger (optional)
4 – 5 cups water
Core apples and slice into cubes. Peel, slice and remove seeds from the orange.
Add all ingredients into the pot. Mix with a spatula. Close lid and pressure cook for 11 minutes on high pressure.
Let pressure release naturally at the end of the cooking cycle. Open the lid and let cool for 3 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to a strainer, pressing and mashing to remove as much liquid as possible from the mix.
Serve cider hot or cold.
If using a saucepan instead, follow the same instructions but cook for 2 hours on medium heat with the lid half on. Strain at the end.
Recipe from Vegan Richa
VEGAN MULLED APPLE CIDER
Start to finish: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yields: 8 – 12 servings
2 green apples
2 red apples
2 yellow apples
1 orange
2 cinnamon sticks
½ cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 cups water
Wash apples, peel orange and cut all into quarters. Place all ingredients in a large pot and bring water to a boil. Reduce to medium heat once boiling and simmer on low for 1 hour. Strain cider from the pot and serve hot.
October begins and so does the search for scary fun activities
Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor
For many Oregonians fall is the time to flourish. As the leaves begin to change the need to go and adventure increases. From pumpkin patches and corn mazes, to music festivals and haunted houses — the possibilities are endless. While many people have traditions they follow each year, these hair-raising options could help switch up the fun for any age.
Photos courtesy of Karly Packineau
Bauman’s Farm & Garden (Gervais) — Starting in 1895, this family run farm has activities for all ages, ranging from farm animals and pumpkin picking, to obstacle courses and mazes. Open Oct. 8 – 9, 16 – 17, 22 – 24 and 30. Hours vary. Admission is $11 – $26.
Chamber Of Darkness Haunted House (Monroe) — Not recommended under eight years old, this premiere haunting experience is themed as a “Wicked Wonderland.” Open Oct. 12, 18 – 19, and 25 – 26 from 7 – 11 p.m. Admission is $8 with $1 discount if a canned food donation is made.
Escape The Room Oregon (Springfield) — This fun adventure features six fully immersive Halloween puzzles to escape with a group. Open Wednesday – Sunday with various hours. Admission is $30 a person, with a $5 coupon on special days.
Hood River Valley Harvest Fest (Hood River) — The old fashioned fall festival is a fun filled event with over 125 local vendors of food, wine, crafts and more for the whole family. Open Oct. 15 – 17. Kids 12 and under are free, adults are $10 and seniors are $5.
Milburn’s Haunted Manor (Hubbard) — Both a trick and a treat to experience a total immersion experience that will make you scream. Open Oct. 8 – 10 from 7 – 11 p.m., and 15 – 17, 22 – 24 and 28 – 31 from 7 – 10 p.m.
The Fear PDX (Portland) — With five terrifying attractions, this haunted house is known as the scariest in the Pacific Northwest. Open Thursday – Sunday through the month of October, from 7 – 10 p.m. Thursday and Sunday, and 7 p.m. – 12 a.m. Friday, Saturday and Halloween. Tickets start at $29.99 with discounts for bigger parties.
The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island (Portland) — This 52 year old farm offers free hayrides, a newly designed corn maze each year, a cafe, a fresh market, an animal barn and a cow train on the weekends. Open daily; dates, hours and admission vary depending on which attraction is chosen.
STRANGEST THINGS HAUNTED FARM (Eugene) — This terrifying interactive haunt covers popular horror films from the last 30 years with themed mazes, rooms and zones. Open Thursday – Saturday, 8 – 11 p.m. Admission varies on party size.
The Howl staff shares some of their funny fall tales
The Western Howl Collective
October brings a holiday that many love to celebrate — Halloween. The month is filled with an assortment of spooky things — from movie marathons to quirky decorations to themed foods; nevertheless, no holiday is complete without its share of funny stories. Check out these howl-ingly funny tales from “The Western Howl” staff.
Cora McClain | Editor-in-Chief
Growing up, I had a relatively rich friend and trick-or-treating in her neighborhood was always the best. Four words: king sized candy bars. I would do anything for those candy bars, even trip over my own two feet, scraping up my knees and bleeding all over my costume… At least I got my king sized cookies and cream Hershey’s bar along with anxiety-inducing embarrassment. They don’t call it trick-or-treating for nothing.
Rylie Horrall | Managing Editor
A year or two ago, my mom and I were watching a scary movie. We do that every year and it’s become a fun tradition for us when I’m home around the holiday. Anyway, it was a very tense scene, we’re completely immersed with the lights off, the character on the screen was heading up to what’s probably a jumpscare so we’re leaning in. And then my brother comes around the corner and says “How’s the movie?” I screamed. Mom screamed. He yelped. Long story short, my brother is now extra cautious when he walks into the living room when something scary is on.
Stephanie Moschella | Digital Media Manager
Last Halloween my friends and I played “Little Hope” — well it was more like they played and I watched. I had already played this video game before, but I wanted to see how my friends and roommates fared. Well, long story short, I fell asleep about halfway through them playing the game. I was on one of the couches and my back was turned against the TV, but that didn’t stop any of them from screaming or yelling out loud. But it was fine since I got a pretty good nap.
Mikayla Coleman | News Editor
I grew up playing hours and hours of “LEGO Star Wars” with my dad on his Xbox 360. To earn the respect of my father, I decided to dress up as a stormtrooper for Halloween. My dad and Iwalked into Target, and there it was, the iconic costume, hanging halfway off the hanger in the little boys section. I was so excited, I didn’t bother to look at the tags.
It sat in the closet until the infamous day rolled around. I was psyched. I put the costume on and was sitting there thinking, “Oh, this is uncomfortable. This can’t be right.” But I begrudgingly went out on my trick-or-treating adventure around the neighborhood, feeling wedgied as all h–l, taking weird clomping steps up and down the sidewalk.
It took me a couple of years to understand that there was a cup in the crotch of my costume because it was made for little boys. RIP.
Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor
Each year as September comes to an end, I make plans with my friends to go to a corn maze. It’s my favorite activity because we all go in and they think it will be cute and fun, but I like to add a twist. Yes, it’s me; that person running through the maze making creepy laughing noises or hiding to scare people. Even in the daylight.
A Dutch Bros iced Kick-a-lator with cinnamon sprinks. With extra bro. Jump in my car and give me a kiss on the cheek, bro.
Virgo 8/23-9/22
Pumpkin spiced thotte 😉
Libra 9/23-10/22
Something sexy, like the infamous Pumpkin Spice Latte
Scorpio 10/23-11/21
peppermint mocha bc I refuse to drink psls
Sagittarius 11/22-12/21
Venti cup filled with pumpkin cream cold foam. Don’t forget the pumpkin spice topping!
Capricorn 12/22-1/19
Just straight caramel syrup and whipped cream in a pumpkin
Aquarius 1/20 – 2/18
Sangria apple cider. Light on the cider cider, extra pinot grigio.?
Pisces 2/19 – 3/20
Starbucks. Grande Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. Blend in dried blackberries and one pump raspberry syrup. One scoop matcha in the bottom of the cup, one on top of the whipped cream topping.
New Student Week continues to acclimate, inform and connect students
Mikayla Coleman | News Editor
Sept. 19 marked the start of Western’s annual New Student Week. While first-years said a tearful goodbye to their pre-college life, the party was just getting started.
This year’s New Student Week was one different from any other; most years before, the event was primarily for first-years learning the ins and outs of campus life. However, being left to deal with midpandemic reparations, many nontraditional students that have not had their own in person New Student Week found themselves in need of the welcome and acclamation period that it provides going into the 2021-22 school year.
New Student Week included a variety of different activities, seminars, speakers and social events to make the transition to campus run as smoothly as possible.
PLUS team co-coordinator and senior ASL English Interpreting major Cheyanne Bumgardner spoke out on how the importance of New Student Week has only increased with the times.
“Coming to college is a huge transition for everyone no matter what their background is or what their story is,” said Bumgardner. “It can be intimidating to come to a new place that’s so unfamiliar.”
Many students — first-years and others alike — have faced anxiety about reconnecting with the public in person.
“Even for the leadership staff and upperclassmen, being back and seeing people — it’s a huge social adjustment,” Bumgardner said. “We’ve been doing larger events in the gym and out on the turf field where this is the first time I’ve seen a couple hundred people together in almost two years.”
Safety remained a big focus during the week’s festivities: masks and extra sanitation were required at all New Student Week functions. “We are hoping that this is going to help people remember what that used to be like. We can still be successful and have fun with masks.” Bumgardner said.
Along with the logistical changes due to COVID-19, there were some new creative additions to the line up this year, including a four hour roller rink held in the Pacific Room. There were also different shows and acts outsourced by the PLUS team including Joseph Green, a diversity speaker, followed by acts from a comedian and magician.
Some tried and true traditions also made their appearance this year, such as the “W” photo taken in the gymnasium, signing of the sidewalk and New Student Sunrise.
“The incoming students do a sunrise and the night before their commencement they do a sunset,” said Bumgardner. “It’s like a beginning and an end.”
All the details about what is required to maintain the health and safety of all Western students
Mikayla Coleman | News Editor
Going into fall term during the seemingly endless years of the COVID-19 pandemic leaves many Western students and faculty feeling uneasy. According to the Oregon Health Authority, as of Sept. 2021, Oregon alone has reached 318,914 cases and accumulated 3,661 deaths due to the spread of COVID-19. Trying to navigate the rules and regulations for in person learning proves to be daunting and confusing — so here is an in-depth guide for Western students returning to campus this fall.
Sophomore social science major Lindie Larson and sophomore forensic chemistry major Amity Deters follow mask mandates while studying at Hamersly Library.
Where are masks required? Briefly over the 2021 summer break, fully vaccinated students were able to enjoy Western facilities maskless. However, since the development of the delta variant took the world by storm in July, masks have made a valiant return for the safety of everyone on campus.
All vaccinated and unvaccinated employees, guests, vendors and students must wear a mask on campus when indoors. Masks are required outside when social distance cannot be maintained.
If students have a disability that prevents them from wearing a face covering, reach out to the Office of Disability Services.
Something new from the 2020-21 school year is that the campus is open to visitors. Said visitors must adhere to the same rules as students and staff members by wearing a mask when inside and outside. In person tours for prospective students are available by appointment only.
Are vaccines required? Proof of COVID vaccination is required for all students and employees on campus unless they are able to receive an exemption through the university. The exemption is not limited to just medical reasons — religious or philosophical reasons for being unvaccinated are also being taken into consideration.
Social distancing guidelines are posted outside the Werner University Center.
What do living situations look like? Living on campus and using high contact shared spaces have caused concern among students. Isolation that has been so heavily recommended throughout the pandemic is nearly impossible to achieve in a dormitory setting. Despite this, first-year students are still required to live on campus as they have been in past years.
Working through the challenges that come with it, Western has put its best foot forward while preparing for students’ return. Student housing has made an effort to create more single dorm options. Students in residence halls are required to wear masks when not directly inside their assigned room. The university will also provide separate housing for COVID quarantine as needed.
For students that have a meal plan, the Valsetz Dining Hall will be open with seating arranged for social distancing. Other retail dining options, such as Caffè Allegro, will be open with regular business hours.
Caffé Allegro encourages social distancing protocols via venti cups.
What do the classroom situations look like? Western offers a wide range of flexible classroom environments to fit different students’ needs including in person, hybrid, online synchronous and online asynchronous courses.
Western will be implementing contact tracing protocols for those that choose to attend in person classes. If a student participating in an in person class tests positive, all students also taking that course will be notified.
What do extracurricular activities look like? In person activities such as sports events will be offered in order to provide the Western experience as long as it is deemed safe to do so.
Creative arts programs expect to be back with concerts, plays, dance productions and art exhibits. Student Engagement plans to have a variety of in person activities to participate in, including clubs, activities and organizations.
Kicking off this year’s National Hispanic Heritage Month the right way
Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer
National Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States runs from Sep. 15 to Oct. 15, a time that honors the history, cultures and traditions of Hispanic Americans. With their food being one of the many contributions to this nation, it’s no surprise that Hispanic food has become integrated into the American lifestyle and cuisine. What better way to celebrate this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month than with some of these tasty Latin American dishes.
RED PORK POZOLE
Start to finish: 5 hours and 20 minutes
Yields: 6 to 8 servings
¾ cup of dried chiles de árbol
4 or 5 dried anchochiles
6 cloves garlic, 2 smashed, 4 finely chopped
Kosher salt
2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, trimmed and cut in half
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large white onion, chopped
8 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon dried oregano, preferably Mexican
1 bay leaf
Three 15-ounce cans white hominy, drained and rinsed
Break the stems off all the chiles and shake out as many seeds as possible. Put the chiles in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Use a plate to keep the chiles submerged and soak until soft, about 30 minutes. Add the chiles, 1 ½ cups of the soaking liquid, smashed garlic and ½ teaspoon of salt to a blender. Blend until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pushing the sauce through with a rubber spatula; discard the solids.
Rub the pork all over with the cumin and ½ teaspoon of salt; set aside. Heat the vegetable oil in a dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Increase the heat to medium high. Push the onion and garlic to one side of the pot; add the pork to the other side and sear, turning, until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Stir in 2 cups of water, chicken broth, oregano, bay leaf, ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ cup to ¾ cup of the chile sauce depending on personal taste. Bring to a low boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Partially cover and cook, turning the pork a few times until tender, about 3 hours.
Stir in the hominy and continue to simmer, uncovered, until the pork starts falling apart, about 1 more hour. Remove the bay leaf. Transfer the pork to a cutting board; roughly chop and return to the pot. Add some water or broth if the pozole is too thick. Season with salt. Serve with assorted toppings and the remaining chile sauce.
Recipe from Food Network
Gorditas are a staple in every Mexican dinner table.
GORDITAS
Start to finish: 30 minutes
Yields: 4 gorditas
2 cups Maseca corn flour
½ tablespoon salt
2 cups water
10 ½ ounces ground pork rinds
Mix the Maseca with the salt and water until it makes a soft uniform dough. Make small balls and flatten them slightly. Put the pork rinds in the middle and form the gordita.
Heat some oil in a pan and fry the gorditas until they are golden brown. Put them on a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.
To serve, open the gorditas in the middle and accompany them with onion, lettuce, cilantro and sauce as desired.
Recipe from Mexipes.com
Take a break from classes and whip up some dobladas.
DOBLADAS
Start to finish: 30 minutes
Yields: 10 servings
1 cup farmer cheese, queso fresco or queso de capas
1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup olive oil
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
10 flour tortillas
Mix cheese, pepper, onion, black pepper, salt and garlic powder together.
Put 1 heaping tablespoon of the cheese mixture on the lower half of a tortilla and fold over to make a half-moon shape. Press lightly.
Heat oil in a skillet on medium high heat and fry until crisp and golden on both sides.
Drain on paper towels and serve warm. Serve with salsa if desired.
Students come together to share their talent in this traditional New Student Week event
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
From left to right: Jasper Beck, Jared Foos, Andrew Freeman, Daizy Hernandez Soriano, Jessica Bailey, Aubrey Mollock.
The end of New Student Week was marked by the return of a Western tradition — the Variety Show. Organized by the PLUS team’s Variety Show committee, the event consisted of 10 student acts, three prize giveaways and a New Student Week video shot and edited by Western alumnus and freelance videographer Andy McDonald.
Moshe Martinez, junior computer science major, PLUS team member and overseer of the Variety Show committee, acted as MC of the event. Spaced throughout the show, the PLUS team held short raffles for prizes, and a select few students won items ranging from a Hydro Flask to a smart TV.
The performances began with junior ASL Studies major Jared Foos, who sang and played guitar to his own arrangement of “Gone, Gone/Thank You” by Tyler, the Creator and “Relax/Divide” by Hail The Sun.
First-years Ashlee Ellis, Sorin Santos and Breanna Carrasco Vivar performed an energetic light dance routine to the song “LALISA” by Lisa.
Senior criminal justice and psychology double major Andrew Freeman, who is vice president and vocal percussionist of Western’s Acapella Club, performed an original beatbox story, taking the audience through a day in the life of a beatboxer. Freeman was joined by the rest of the Acapella Club for a musical finale.
On the piano, first-year music education major Kourtney Branchfield performed an original song titled “Perfectionist,” something she identifies with.
“I want to kind of help people understand what (perfectionist) means,” Branchfield said of her song’s message, “or people who are also dealing with it can also relate to it.”
First-year business major Daizy Hernandez Soriano sang “Que Me Vas a Dar” by Jenni Rivera, the only act performed in another language.
Graduate student Liam Vance performed “Take Out Some Insurance” by Jimmy Reed. As Vance left the stage, he declared, “My Name is Liam Vance and I am just getting started.”
Channeling a Bo Burnham-style musical comedy, senior art and design major Jessica Bailey performed an original song on guitar titled “WIP” about wanting to find their place and figure out life.
“One of the things that I was working on was trying to be more honest with myself…” Bailey said, “even if things are kind of embarrassing and weird to say out loud, trying to say it anyways because it’s actually quite helpful.”
First-year Jasper Beck performed his slam poetry piece titled “2nd Law” accompanied by an original backtrack and slideshow.
“I essentially used the second law of thermodynamics as a metaphor for the fact that societies and relationships tend to fall apart, just like matter does…” Beck said of the inspiration behind the poem, “and sort of my thoughts on how that affects people and how our reaction to that brokenness is not healthy, in my opinion.”
First-year psychology major Aubrey Mollock sang an emotional rendition of “Burn” from the musical “Hamilton,” a song performed by wife Eliza after Hamilton released documents to the public revealing his affair.
First-year Manda Oliver played an original piece titled “Stepping into a Mirror.” According to Oliver, the song was initially about escaping reality, but over time came to be synonymous with creating her perfect reality instead.
At the end of the live performances, Martinez was joined onstage by the rest of the PLUS team for a choreographed dance to Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson’s hit song “Uptown Funk.”
