Mount Hood

Western launches new study group app

Western has expanded its online academic support network through an app called CircleIn

Sydney Carpenter | News Editor

Western has announced their new partnership with an established educational support app known as CircleIn.

Founded in 2017 by Chief Executive Officer Gerald Meggett Jr., CircleIn was originally created to address the discrepancies in college graduation statistics for African American males and minorities across the country. However, the app is useful to all students pursuing higher education, according to an article written by Meggett.

Last spring, Western surveyed students about the challenges they are facing in online school.  Following up, Western reached out to CircleIn after original contact had been established in 2019.

“CircleIn automatically connects students with their classmates so they can form study groups, share useful materials and ask questions,” said Dean of Library and Academic Innovation Chelle Batchelor.

The app provides students with study tools to manage their workload, prioritize assignments and keep organized. After students log in to the app, they are provided with four color coded rectangles labeled “overdue,” “upcoming,” “in progress” and “done.”

“To help with motivation, CircleIn is gamified,” said Batchelor, “which means that as students complete various tasks and activities in CircleIn, they can earn points for rewards such as gift cards and scholarships.”

In the app, students can select from 26 major brands to earn rewards for, including Target, Spotify, Taco Bell and Starbucks.

“I already made $10,” said junior education major Elijah Thompson.

Prior to CircleIn, Thompson used to write assignments down as a reminder, and now the app CircleIn rewards the behavior.

“My printer just ran out of ink and now I might be able to afford more,” said Thompson.

In addition to a virtual planner, CircleIn automatically syncs to a student’s schedule to form study groups for all who are in the class. Batchelor stated that Western is currently exploring the idea of adding tutors within the group to provide additional support for online learning. 

Students interested in the CircleIn app can download it on their phones or go to the website circleinapp.com and access the services with no paid membership required.

Contact the author at scarpenter18@mail.wou.edu

Dungeon Delving for Dummies: “Xanathar’s Guide to Everything”

“Xanathar’s Guide to Everything” is Wizard’s of the Coast’s most helpful sourcebook

Stephanie Moschella |‌ ‌Digital Media Manager

“Xanathar’s Guide to Everything” serves as a compendium of everything extra and more. With beautiful artwork scattered throughout and hilarious riffs from the notorious gang leader Xanathar himself, this is an incredibly useful guide for dungeon masters. This sourcebook is split into three chapters: Character Options, Dungeon Master’s Tools and Spells ⏤ alongside extensions on character names and advice for DM’s. Nevertheless, Xanathar and his pet fish, Sylgar, take readers on a wild ride through all the brand new content to play with. 

If DM’s have more role-playing than roll-playing players, the character option guide is a massive win. Combat-focused players might find this section a bit underwhelming, however, nobody cares about what they think. There are many revisited and revised class modifications such as the Samurai fighter and the Swashbuckler rogue, along with a completely new subclass, the Horizon Walker ranger. Another win for the four players out there that still play a ranger. 

A compelling addition are the racial feats at the end of chapter one ⏤ which cover races such as tieflings and gnomes. There are various supplemental tables that DM’s could use to expand a nonplayable character’s background with a roll of a die or can act as a helping hand for new players. 

This sourcebook covers those complicated questions that come up during games, like the rules around waking someone up, exhaustion, seeing someone cast and identifying the spell and what the hell adamantine weapons are. Knowing those little, but important, rules can make a game run smoother and improves the efficiency of the DM. It’s great to know what to do when a player falls off a cliff.

Half of the spells in the original 5th edition handbook sucked, so I always look forward to any new ones that come out. The major additions to the druid, sorcerer and wizard spell lists give a much wider variety for extensive combat play. From Xanathar himself, “danger is everywhere. Always keep one eye open.”

Overall Review: Although not everything is balanced, many things this sourcebook visited can help build an entire campaign. 8/10 would recommend to players and DM’s alike! 

Contact the author at smoschella20@mail.wou.edu

‌A list of 15 TikTokers to definitely check out

Here are some TikTokers you may not already know

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌ ‌

One of the beauties of modern technology is how easy it can be to discover new content, music, videos, DIY’s, recipes and various creators and communities. With so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start with some of these apps. Jump into TikTok by checking out these 15 TikTokers who have a variety of engaging stories, inspiring personal anecdotes, creative characters and useful information:

  1. blakesdailybread makes videos as a serious, and slightly creepy character, who jumps on new trends. 
  2. calebwfrancis has plenty of off the cuff jokes, situations and characters, and also shows clips from his Twitch streams. 
  3. candlereviews highlights satisfying melting and pouring videos of antique, detailed candles and reviews them.
  4. chantyb97 does videos with her bird, Hamlet, who likes to sing in the shower about bacon pancakes and always asks his owner, Bridget, “What doing?!”
  5. chaserutherford has immaculate music taste and dance moves, all while doing perfectly timed facial expressions that are perfectly timed. He also makes me want to buy a fisheye lens. 
  6. caseykfrey makes content that seems so effortlessly funny ⏤ and is definitely his own authentic sense of humor ⏤ through the use of POV’s, characters and dancing to trendy audios. 
  7. christiaan.long uses his energetic presence to talk about current happenings in his life, his mental health and interesting experiences he’s had. 
  8. davidyrodriguez creates characters and situations that are relatable but wild, plus his reactions and comedic timing are great.
  9. fascinatedbyfungi shows up-close clips of fungi and other aspects of nature in order to educate viewers. He also identifies the species of mushrooms and their qualities.
  10. flambothedog is a very smart pup who can speak about toys, walking, his owners and sister Espeon by using buttons on the ground ⏤ after being trained and learning how to do so.
  11. oldtimehawkey helps people with his calming nature vibes, grounding conversations and walks with his dog.
  12. shanewhalley is on a weight loss journey that has inspired many people; he gets vulnerable with his audience and is determined to keep working hard toward his goals. 
  13. truecrimecam has videos on true crime events and describes them with haunting detail.
  14. telehuefood takes food for thought to a whole new level with her cooking videos and stories. 
  15. what_about_bunny is another chatty dog, who also learned how to use buttons to communicate with her owners. 

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

New events from Independence, Portland, Eugene and more

Enjoy quality time with these virtual and in-person events 

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌

As February begins, it can be fun to plan events to attend with family or individually for people to enjoy and explore. Some events have gone virtual ⏤ which makes it even easier to enjoy with family or friends ⏤ or going to in-person events alone while social distancing and taking the necessary precautions can add some variety to the day. Either way, everyone needs some new things to do this year, and it is important to still be engaged and social for mental and emotional health. 

Virtual and in-person events can be a way to find new friends and folks with similar interests, or it can be a way to get out of the old comfort zone. Life gets busy and it’s not always easy to know what the latest happenings in and around town are, so here are some recommended events to look into:

  1. Teen/Adult DIY – Valentine Flowers: Feb 5. Virtual event. Independence, OR. ci.independence.or.us/library/page/teenadult-diy-valentine-flowers 
  2. Kid Craft Fun – Valentine Cards: Feb 8. Virtual event. Independence, OR. ci.independence.or.us/library/page/kid-craft-fun-valentine-cards 
  3. Virtual Storytime with Miss Jo: Each Wednesday — Feb. 10, 17 and 24. Virtual event. Independence, OR. ci.independence.or.us/library/page/virtual-storytime-miss-jo-35 
  4. Holiday Show at River Gallery: Feb. 4 through March 5. River Gallery 184 S. Main St., Independence, OR. rivergalleryart.com 
  5. Spark of Love Virtual Auction: Feb. 5 through 10. Supports the Salem Fire Foundation. Virtual event. salemfirefoundation.org/spark-of-love-virtual-auction
  6. Something’s Brewing: a global look at tea and coffee customs: Jan. 6 through March 5. Pringle Park Plaza, 390 Liberty St. SE, Salem, OR. salemmulticultural.org/gallery-exhibit/somethings-brewing-a-global-look-at-tea-and-coffee-customs 
  7. First Friday Artists Receptions: Feb. 5, 7 to 9 p.m. Lunaria Gallery 113 N Water St., Silverton, OR. lunariagallery.com  
  8. Portland’s Seafood and Wine Festival: Feb. 5 through 6. Oregon Convention Center, 777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, OR. pdxseafoodandwinefestival.com/ 
  9. Portland Jazz Festival: Feb. 18 through 27. Virtual and in-person options. Portland, OR. pdxjazz.com  
  10. Chinese New Year Celebration: Feb. 12 through 28. Lan Su Chinese Garden, 239 NW Everett St., Portland, OR. rove.me/to/portland/chinese-new-year 
  11. Cascade Festival of African Films: Feb. 5 through March 10. Virtual event. Portland, OR. africanfilmfestival.org/ 
  12. Eugene’s Virtual Boat & Sportsmen’s Show: Feb. 5 through 11; March 12 through 31. Virtual event. Eugene, OR. exposureshows.com/our-shows/eugene.htm

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

Creating custom bath bombs

Destress with DIY bath bombs

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

What better way to wind down after a stressful day than with a hot bath? Elevate bath time with homemade miniature bath bombs made in an ice cube tray or other silicone mold. Customize the scents, colors and decorations — like dried lavender or sprinkles — as desired. 

DIY BATH BOMBS

Start to finish: 1 day

Yields: 6 medium-sized bath bombs

1 cup baking soda

½ cup citric acid

½ cup cornstarch

1 to 2 teaspoons water or witch hazel

10 drops essential oil of choice

OPTIONAL

Food coloring

½ cup Epsom salt

2 tablespoons coconut, almond or olive oil

In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate small bowl, melt the coconut or almond oil if using, then combine wet ingredients.

While continuously whisking, very slowly drizzle the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. The wet mixture may also be poured into a spray bottle to make combining easier. The outcome should be similar to a dry, crumbly sand with no clumps. If the mixture gets too wet, the bath bomb will fizz too soon.

Tightly pack the mixture into the ice cube tray or silicone mold. Let set for 10 minutes, then carefully remove and let harden on parchment paper for 24 hours. Finished product will still be somewhat fragile.

Store in a mason jar or package in cellophane for gifting.

Recipe from 100daysofrealfood.com

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Killer cardio to get the blood pumping

Equipment free cardio workout to do at home

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Burn some calories and build endurance at home with this equipment free cardio circuit. Do each exercise for 30 to 40 seconds and rest for 20 to 30 seconds in between. Rest for two to three minutes after completing the circuit, then repeat for a total of three times through. Modify as necessary. 

Jumping jacks: From a standing position, bend the knees slightly and jump; spread legs to about shoulder-width apart and stretch arms out and overhead. Jump back to standing position to complete one rep.

Burpees: From a standing position, squat down and place hands on the floor. Kick or step the legs back into a plank position, and add an optional push-up. Jump or step the legs forward to return to a squat position, then reach arms overhead and jump into the air. Immediately lower into a squat again and repeat the cycle.

High knees: Start by standing with feet hip-width apart. Lift up the right knee as high as possible, then quickly alternate so the left knee comes up before the right foot lands.

Mountain climbers: Begin in a pushup position, and bring the right knee forward to the chest to tap toes in the floor. Quickly switch to bring the left knee forward to complete one rep. Remember to maintain a flat back throughout.

Skaters: Start with feet slightly more than shoulder-width apart. Jump sideways to the right, landing on the right leg. Bring the left leg behind the right ankle and optionally tap the left foot to the ground for balance. Now jump to the left with the left leg, then continue alternating.

Jump squats: Stand with feet hip-width apart, arms either down or straight ahead and parallel to the ground. Hinge at the hips to lower down until thighs are parallel to the floor. Press feet downwards to jump off the floor as high as possible. Upon landing, immediately drop back into a squat and repeat.

Bicycle crunches: Lie face up on the floor with hands behind the head and knees bent. Lift shoulder blades off the ground and raise knees until shins are parallel to the floor. Bring the right knee towards the chest while straightening the left leg. Simultaneously, rotate the torso so the left elbow moves towards the right knee. Switch and pull the left leg up, extending the right leg and twisting so the right elbow touches the left knee, then continue alternating.

A demonstration of the exercises in this cardio circuit can be found on our YouTube channel @The Western Howl.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Ranking TikTok Communities

The Western Howl Staff

S 

  • Cottagecore
  • Skater TikTok
  • Sword TikTok
  • LGBT TIkTok
  • ATLA TikTok
  • Twilight TikTok
  • BLM TikTok
  • Goblincore 

A

  • Art TikTok
  • Cosplay TikTok
  • Aesthetic TikTok
  • Home Decor TikTok
  • Teacher TikTok
  • Goth TikTok
  • Jello TikTok
  • Welding TikTok

B

  • Bean TikTok
  • DIY TikTok
  • Booktok
  • Witch TikTok
  • Skincare TikTok
  • Small House TikTok
  • Birb TikTok
  • Rollerskating TikTok

C

  • Alt TIkTok
  • Foraging TikTok
  • Cursed TikTok
  • Healing TikTok
  • Cow TikTok
  • Croc tok
  • Transition TikTok

D

  • Furry TikTok
  • Thrifting TikTok
  • DND TikTok
  • Musical TikTok
  • Grass TikTok

F

  • Inspiration TikTok
  • Math TikTok
  • Fitness TikTok
  • Conservative TikTok
  • Astrology TikTok
  • Hamilton TikTok

TRASH CAN

  • Straight TikTok
  • Author TikTok
  • Weeb TikTok
  • Thirst Trap TikTok
  • Criminal TikTok
  • Mafia TikTok
  • POV’s

This week in completely made up horoscopes

The Western Howl Staff

Theme: Stressing Tips / How To Stress

Aries 3/21-4/19  

Call your parents and tell them you’re pregnant

Taurus 4/20-5/20

Get married at 21

Gemini 5/21-6/20 

Run through various scenarios in your head that’re completely implausible

Cancer 6/21-7/22

Forget about your midterms until 4 hours before they’re due

Leo 7/23-8/22

Take a depression nap and leave all your work till the last minute

Virgo 8/23-9/22

Unfocus your eyes and look into a corner. The faceless old woman will appear.

Libra 9/23-10/22

Be a student at WOU. Work multiple jobs for minimum wage. Call it good.

Scorpio 10/23-11/21 

Realise you hate your major but can’t change it

Sagittarius 11/22-12/21

Make a mess or something

Capricorn 12/22-1/19

Personally, I’m a sucker for losing really important items

Aquarius 1/20 – 2/18

Look at your bank account

Pisces 2/19 – 3/20

Energy drinks are not breakfast.

Student reactions to Trump’s 2nd impeachment after the Capitol attacks

Western students react to Donald Trump’s 2nd impeachment after the attacks on the Capitol 

Stephanie Moschella | Digital Media Manager

Do you approve of Trump’s 2nd impeachment after the Capitol attacks?

How many students voted: 79

Students who approved of Trump’s 2nd impeachment: 67 (84.81%)

Students who disapproved of Trump’s 2nd impeachment: 12 (15.19%)

Contact the author at howldigitalmediamanager@mail.wou.edu

West Valley Hospital moves second vaccine distribution site to WOU

Western’s Pacific Room is being used to allocate COVD-19 vaccine during Phase 1A 

Sydney Carpenter | News Editor

Last week, West Valley Hospital relocated their second distribution site for the COVID-19 vaccine from the Polk County fairgrounds to Western’s campus.

 “We were able to put up our first week there,” said Pathway Program and Community Outreach Administrator Jenny Von Derahe. “We moved here because it’s a central location and the technology is adequate for our needs.”

According to Von Derahe, the clinic was furnished in a day with the help of hospital facility workers, the environmental services team and kitchen staff.

“It feels safer and more comfortable than the fairgrounds,” said Polk County resident Wendy Brockhouse. “It just seemed weird in the big old barns … this just seems more a part of the community and safer.”

At this time Western is not charging West Valley to rent out the Pacific Room. According to Von Derahe, Western is not funding employment for the workers or volunteers of the clinic, however there are discussions of potentially allowing Western students interested in the medical field to volunteer at the clinic. Additionally, the clinic is not administering vaccines to administrators, faculty, staff or students unless they qualify within Phase 1A.

“One positive that’s come out is the collaborations that have taken place,” said Western Alumnus and District 1 Polk County Fire Chief Ben Stange.

Stange explained that Western has worked extensively with the community to facilitate a functional clinic on its campus.

“The Pacific Room would normally be used for this or that … but we (Western) can’t have events so it’s available. So what can we do to help the larger cause,”said Stange.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, Polk County has partially vaccinated 8.5% of its population and fully vaccinated less than 1% of the population. 

“It’s been such a huge deal to our people,” said Stange. “We were transporting positive patients every couple days, and it’s been difficult to see. The opportunity to actually hands on start to fix a problem that we’ve really felt we’ve had zero control over has been nice.”

Stange explained that, just like other health care professionals, their focus is to take care of people during emergency situations.

“There hasn’t been anything really till this moment that we’ve felt like we can do to make a large impact,” said Stange.

At this time, West Valley is charging a $60 administration fee for the vaccine that will be billed to the patient’s insurance. If uninsured, the hospital waives the fee. Due to the unpredictability of vaccine dose delivery, clinics are not open daily. To learn about hours and vaccination qualifications, visit their website at salemhealth.org.

Contact the author at scarpenter18@mail.wou.edu

United States Capitol hosts the 59th Presidential Inauguration

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are successfully inaugurated into office following the attack on the Capitol

Sydney Carpenter | News Editor

On Jan. 20, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris made a peaceful transition to office.

Themed “America United,” the ceremony featured creative talents such as Amanda Gorman, Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez and Garth Brooks.

“This inauguration marks a new chapter for the American people — one of healing, of unifying, of coming together, of an America united,” said Presidential Inaugural Committee CEO Dr. Tony Allen in a Jan. 11 press release. “It is time to turn the page on this era of division. The inaugural activities will reflect our shared values and serve as a reminder that we are stronger together than we are apart, just as our motto ‘e pluribus unum’ reminds us — out of many, one.”

Following tradition, Biden made his presidential vows over a Bible that’s been in the Biden family since 1893. In an interview with Late Show host Stephen Colbert, Biden explained the Bible had all the important dates from being sworn into any government office. Veering from tradition, former President Donald Trump did not make an appearance at the ceremony, and had Vice President Mike Pence stand in his place.

“We have worked hard. We left it all — as the athletes would say — we left it all on the field,” said Trump in his farewell address to Joint Base Andrews. “I wish the new administration great luck and success. I think they’ll have success. They have the foundation to do something really spectacular,” said Trump.

The former president concluded the speech, announcing he would return in some capacity, before flying to Florida on Air Force One for the last time.

Contact the author at scarpenter18@mail.wou.edu

‌Meet new people at WOU by joining a club

Look into these clubs and organizations at Western

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌

These clubs and organizations at Western can help winter term pass by with the help of new friends, building fond memories and getting involved in campus life. There are a ton of selections out there that have taken safety precautions and are holding virtual meetings over Zoom. Even if meetings aren’t in person, there’s still the chance to meet new people with similar interests. Get involved with a handful of these clubs: 

  • Abby’s House: Their hours have been recently updated as of Jan. 6; advocates can be reached by email, and staff and hours of operation can be found at their website, wou.edu/abbyshouse. Don’t forget to check out their Facebook, “Abby’s House at WOU.”
  • American Sign Language: Winter term club meetings will be held twice a month. As announced on their Facebook and Instagram, there will be a study event on Wednesday, Jan. 27, from 6 to 7 p.m. Look out for their newsletter ⏤ which has the Zoom link ⏤ their Instagram @wouasl or their Facebook, “WOU ASL Club.”
  • Black Student Union: For this term, meetings are held at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays over Zoom. The link can be found in their Instagram bio, @woubsu.
  • Cru: They have club meetings on Mondays at 7 p.m. at the Praise Assembly in Monmouth, and have Bible study at 7:45 p.m. at Munson House on Wednesdays. 
  • Mecha: They’re having bi-weekly meetings on Tuesdays from 5 to 6 p.m.; updates, information and the Zoom link are all on their Instagram, @mechadewou.
  • Triangle Alliance: With weekly meetings on Mondays at 6 p.m., folks can find Zoom links and current information on their Instagram @wou_ta or join their group on Facebook at “WOU Triangle Alliance.”
  • Unidos: They’re holding bi-weekly meetings, and have a newsletter that is regularly released. Meetings are held on Mondays at 5 p.m. over Zoom, and the link can be found on their Instagram page @unidoswou. Their Facebook page also has more information and can be searched under “Unidos Club At WOU.” 

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

Artist Spotlight: WOU student and poet fuels the art scene

Sam Marshall, a poet, rock climber and The Northwest Passage editor-in-chief

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌

Sam Marshall first started writing poetry at 14; originally drawing inspiration from poets like Edgar Allen Poe, they moved on to experimenting with darker elements and themes in their own writing. The writing process isn’t always an easy one ⏤ and Marshall is no stranger to writer’s block ⏤ but after spending years of writing, revising and keeping old poems to reflect on, they were able to begin building a strong skill set. 

As a young poet from Sherwood, OR, they learned to identify and try out different poetic devices in their works, such as stanza breaks, rhyme and meter. Now, as a senior at Western, they have taken their skills and enthusiasm for the writing process one step further. 

Marshall is an English major with a concentration in literature and a writing minor, and they have utilized the writing skills they developed to good use. This determination earned them the position as editor-in-chief at The Northwest Passage, which is Western’s literary and fine arts magazine compiled of students’ work. 

The latest issue of The Northwest Passage was released fall term, and Marshall gained a lot of valuable experience working with other students while curating it, saying, “I have to thank everyone who submitted their work to the magazine. There was a wide range of submissions, and I tried my best to highlight each individual work while creating a cohesive product that students can enjoy.”

Although most of their writing is private for now, they look forward to the possibility of publishing works one day. They recently wrote a poem called “Can’t Stargaze Under a Cloudy Sky,” which was inspired by their experiences while stargazing at the Big Dipper and finding comfort in the vast night sky. Given time, they learned what worked for their writer’s block and what didn’t, and found that the right words will come to the writer when they want to.

Marshall elaborates on their work when they were younger, stating, “[Edgar Allen] Poe is still one of my favorites … there’s substance in pain and melancholy, and I found it easier to write with those kinds of themes. I still write in that same vein of melancholy. I find it difficult to write anything happier than bittersweet.” 

When they aren’t writing, Marshall can be found reading, rock climbing, finishing up online classes, listening to music and working on The Northwest Passage.

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu 

Petals & Vines is the grow-to place for plants

Local florist Petals & Vines is blooming with beauty 

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌

Family owned and operated florist shop Petals & Vines has been established in Monmouth since April 2007 ⏤ run by the charming and welcoming mother and daughter duo, Maggie Triplet and Martha Zuck. When it comes to the variety of plants and items available, they have all the bells and whistles for any customer, occasion or budget. Martha describes their inventory as having everything from buying flowers by the stem, “big and bougie” trumpet-style flowers, or “low and lush” arrangements with styles in between that can have glass vases. 

Zuck stated, “I’ve lived and breathed flowers since 1995, it’s second nature to me … I love working with my mom, being involved in the small-town community, and watching customers’ kids grow up through the years,” which is her favorite part about working with her mom.

With Valentine’s Day coming up and spring fast approaching, anyone can roam around in the nearly twenty different types of plants in their shop and soak in the greenery. Daily fresh-cut flowers, blooming bouquets, tropical plants, ferns, air and household plants are just a few choices.

“As Valentine’s Day comes up, wedding and proposal season usually comes right after,” Zuck pointed out.

No matter what the event or season, there are plenty of quality arrangements, plants and gifts like decor, cards, candies and stuffed animals. Dedicated to working with customers and their budgets, Petals & Vines has “$10 Tuesdays” where there are various plants and items available for $10. There are other deals that happen throughout the year, and they also do pickup and delivery services. If there’s ever a plant they don’t have in-store, they’re happy to order it. 

Located at 410 Main St W East in Monmouth, patrons should also keep an eye out for JJ, their friendly orange cat that patrols the neighborhood. Additional details can be found on their Facebook at “Petals & Vines Flowers and Gifts,” and Instagram @petalsandvines. For any other questions or concerns, check out their website, petalsandvinesflorist.com or give them a call at 503-838-1773.

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

A preseason event and CDL season postponement

Next month will start the second season of CDL

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌ ‌

It was recently announced that the second season of Call of Duty League will start off with an opening event, taking place Feb. 11 through 14. CDL took a similar route as other competitive game leagues, and switched to an online format due to COVID-19. The regular season has been announced ⏤ although fans will have to wait for the schedule and matchups, as they have yet to be finalized. On Jan. 23 and 24, the preseason Kickoff Classic took place, where six preseason matches were voted on by fans. At this Kickoff Classic, they discussed the upcoming season and the Stage One Group Selection Show. 

There are other new changes to the season that will come next year, such as the switch to PC and their 4 vs. 4 gameplay mode. Among the 12 CDL teams, the Los Angeles Thieves will be taking the place of Optic Gaming Los Angeles. All of the teams qualify for each major tournament, and it should be noted that the prizing system for 2021 was slightly adjusted.

There’s an impressive $500,000 thousand at stake for each Major and a staggering $2.5 million for the playoffs, with a prize pool of $5 million. The Kickoff Classic, the regular season and the playoff games will be broadcasted live and on-demand at the Call of Duty League YouTube channel. 

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

Six Oregon waterfall locations to visit

Dozens of waterfalls within driving distance of Western

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Creeks and rivers grow to roaring currents in the wake of winter rain and snow, fueling waterfalls to their full power. Brave the cold and get out to see these waterfalls less than an hour and a half drive from Western. 

Silver Falls State Park (56 minutes away): Home to eighteen waterfalls and the 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls hike, Silver Falls State Park is a nature lover’s dream. Pay a $5 day-use fee to spend hours immersed in the lush forest surrounding Silver Creek. Not up for a hike? Some falls — including North, South and Winter Falls — are a short walk from parking lots.

Scotts Mills Falls (59 minutes away): While only possessing a 10-foot drop, Scotts Mills Falls is very accessible in the small park of Scotts Mills. Visit during the summer and go for a swim in Butte Creek.

Shellburg, Ayers and Stout Creeks (1 hour 2 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes away): Accessed via gravel roads and obscure trails in the Santiam Canyon area are six waterfalls: Shellburg, Lower Shellburg, Ayers Creek, Upper Ayers Creek, Horseshoe and Stout Creek Falls. As of Jan. 26, this area is closed due to damage from Sept. 2020 wildfires.

Alsea and Green Peak Falls (1 hour 11 minutes away): Right off the parking lot of Alsea Falls Recreation Site is the 30-foot Alsea Falls. Take a 2.5-mile roundtrip hike to see the even more impressive 45-foot Green Peak Falls with a $3 day-use fee.

Niagara and Pheasant Creek Falls (1 hour 12 minutes away): Oregon boasts its very own Niagara Falls in the Siuslaw National Forest. These two waterfalls, each with over 100-foot drops, are both within a two-mile hike. Pack a lunch and enjoy the roar of the falls from a nearby picnic table.

McDowell Creek Falls County Park (1 hour 15 minutes away): A self-proclaimed hidden gem, McDowell Creek Falls County Park harbors two major waterfalls — Majestic and Royal Terrace Falls — as well as three minor falls. Be prepared for stairs, but the viewing platforms offer beautiful photo opportunities.

For even more waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest, check out waterfallsnorthwest.com and get exploring.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Monmouth welcomes a smokin’ new food truck

The Loaded Grill deli and barbecue shop opens in Monmouth

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

A new food truck has opened in Monmouth — The Loaded Grill, a barbecue and deli-style eatery, is now serving customers at The Annex next to the Donut Bar. Owner Eric Brown and his wife held a soft open on Jan. 12. 

Brown decided to open another food truck alongside the Donut Bar to support Limitless Ministries, the church that helped Brown acquire The Annex lot.

“I feel this obligation, because the church … did a lot of it for me and my business,” Brown said. However, Brown said the pandemic conditions have made it difficult to bring other food truck owners to the lot. After seeing a need for fresh food in the community, he and his wife opened up a place to serve sandwiches and barbecue.

Brown built The Loaded Grill himself and designed it with the customers in mind. The truck has a large awning as well as counters that provide a safe amount of space between staff and patrons. Plus, while waiting for an order, customers get to watch exactly what goes into their meal through the pickup window.

Already, fan favorites from The Loaded Grill include mouth-watering pulled pork nachos, hot meatball subs and perfectly prepared pulled pork sandwiches ⏤ which I can personally recommend. The shop also offers entire meals for an affordable price, and on certain days during the week, they sell Traeger-smoked full chickens that can feed a whole family or a single person for a few days. 

For the time being, The Loaded Grill is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., though Brown hopes to be open on weekends by the end of February. As for future plans, Brown wants to continue giving back to the community as much as he can.

“I’m going to utilize my networks to the best of my ability,” Brown said. “Once we settle in and get a little bit of consistency going, then we’ll ramp up the new year with more stuff — more fundraisers, more giveaways.”

Find The Loaded Grill at 191 Monmouth Ave N, and follow them on Facebook @The Loaded Grill to stay up-to-date with deals and offers. Call or text them at 503-798-1328 to place an order and inquire about deliveries.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

This week in completely made up horoscopes

The Western Howl Staff

Theme: De-stressing tips!

Aries 3/21-4/19  

A clean work space equates to a clean mind

Taurus 4/20-5/20

Sleep, just go to sleep.

Gemini 5/21-6/20 

go for a run or walk, the pain u feel in ur lungs will make u forget abt stress 🙂

Cancer 6/21-7/22

Take a break from your tasks to do something you love

Leo 7/23-8/22

Spray some oils

Virgo 8/23-9/22

Dig a hole in your garden. You know what to do next :D.

Libra 9/23-10/22

Honestly just sit in an empty room and scream. Or it can be a full room. Doesn’t matter.

Scorpio 10/23-11/21 

Meditate for an hour or so

Sagittarius 11/22-12/21

Go out and experience nature. Maybe be one with nature? Meow?

Capricorn 12/22-1/19

Eat a gallon of ice cream (unless you’re lactose intolerant then idk)

Aquarius 1/20 – 2/18

I hear breaking things is all the rage right now

Pisces 2/19 – 3/20

Cry (no literally, it actually helps to release your stress)

Western’s Student Engagement hosts the 14th annual MLK Celebration Week

Student Engagement honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a virtual rendition of their MLK Celebration 

Sydney Carpenter | News Editor

Student Engagement has formatted their week-long Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration to be hosted virtually. This year, the week of commemoration and activities are themed after Dr. King’s “We have come a long, long way, but we still have a long, long way to go” speech.

Service Fundraiser for Emergency Student Aid: Students are facing unexpected financial hardships.The MLK planning committee is asking for donations towards the Western’s Emergency Student Aid fund between now and Jan. 31 at wou.edu/foundation/give-to-wou/ to raise $2,021.

Faculty & Staff Panel: On Jan. 19 from 12 to 1 p.m. via Zoom, students can hear faculty and staff voice their thoughts on social climate for Black and African Americans and then answer the prompt “why the time is always right to do right.”

MLK Keynote Address: On Jan. 20 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. via livestream, Tai Harden-Moore ⏤ Founder and CEO of Moore Consultants ⏤ will speak on strategies to create inclusive environments for all.

Student Q&A with Keynote: Students are invited to join keynote speaker Harden-Moore for a Q&A session hosted by the Black Student Union from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 20 via Zoom.

WOU Student-Athlete Panel:  In this event, student-athletes voice their opinions on the current social climate for Black and African Americans and answer the prompt “why the time is always right to do right” on Jan. 21 from 12 to 1 p.m. on Zoom.

MLK Video Contest Winners: The winners of the video contest asking students to answer  “why the time is always right to do right” will be announced on Jan. 22 by special guests. Winners will receive WolfStore certificates: $200 for first place, $125 for second place and $75 for third place. Videos can be viewed on wou.edu/mlk.

Contact the author at scarpenter18@mail.wou.edu

Congress files for impeachment following Capitol raid in DC

The House of Representatives have passed an article of impeachment against Donald Trump for the second time

Sydney Carpenter | News Editor

On Jan. 13, the United States House of Representatives passed Article 1 of their resolution bill, which called to impeach former President Donald Trump for incitement of insurrection.

The article, drafted by Minnesota’s 5th District Representative Ilhan Omar, came a day after the Jan. 6 siege of the Capitol Building in the District of Columbia. The raid by far-right extremists resulted in five deaths ⏤ four Trump supporters and one police officer.

A press release statement by Chief of Police Steven Sund reported more than 50 United States Capitol Building Police and Metropolitan Police officers had been hospitalized for serious injuries.

Media outlets livestreamed the altercation with police, capturing rioters breaking windows and stealing government property. Simultaneously, groups across the country were organized to raid each state’s Capitol Building to protest election certification after weeks of Trump voicing his beliefs of an illegitimate election.

In Salem on Jan. 6, Oregon State Police declared an unlawful assembly after around 100 far-right extremists gathered to protest the election certification. The protest ended in the arrest of two demonstrators.

In the days leading up to the House’s vote, a total of 14 media outlets suspended or restricted Trump’s presence online. Parler, the platform known for its conservative content, has been removed from the Apple App Store and Amazon has suspended hosting Parler on its servers citing promotion of violent content. 

The Jan. 13 vote for impeachment resulted in 10 republicans breaking party lines and voting for impeachment.

“(Impeachment is) going a step too far,” said Oregon Trump voter Al Ashcroft during a Jan. 18 protest. “You don’t need to pick a fight, and that to me is picking a fight.”

Ashcroft explained he doesn’t approve of Trump’s incitement or claims of voter fraud.

“Show him the door,” said Ashcroft. “He’s gone, let him go.”

Counter protesters at a peaceful gathering on Jan. 18 agreed with the House.

“We’re trying to hold him (Trump) accountable,” said Salem resident Kelly Johnston , “but if we can’t do it in the Senate then I don’t know. Without accountability there is no unity, period.”

Locally, some Oregon officials support Congress on the article of impeachment.

“It shows that our federal government is willing and recognizes that it is unacceptable behavior,” said newly elected State Representative Wlynsvey Campos of House District 28. “That is not how the leader of this country should act.”

However, Campos acknowledges that even with an impeachment, it will not resolve all issues.

“We can’t just say with the inauguration of President-Elect Biden that it suddenly makes everything good again,” explained Campos. “These last four years have shown that there’s quite a division in this country and we need to be putting in the work to make sure folks are coming together.”

The story will be updated as more information is released.

UPDATE (JAN. 26TH, 2021 @ 8:54 PM)

The Senate has announced it will begin the second impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump during the week of Feb. 8.

According to Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, this decision gave the house managers and defense time to prepare. After the article is voted on, Trump is expected to respond by Feb. 2. At this time, Senate Party leaders have not estimated how long the trial will run; Trump’s first impeachment trial lasted around 21 days.

As a result of the delayed start, the Demoratic Party is projected to use the time to swear in more of President Biden’s Cabinet members, according to an article written by The Hill. As stated by cnn.com, the Senate has approved four Cabinet members as of Jan. 26.

Contact the author at scarpenter18@mail.wou.edu

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