Mount Hood

Decompress with all the Netflix originals coming out January 2020

Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

Most people may think that January 2020 is the time to try and follow their New Year resolutions; let’s be honest, it’s the start of a new term and the perfect time to decompress with everything new coming to Netflix this month.

This year Netflix is unleashing a tidal wave of original shows and movies, here is a list of what to expect:

Available Jan. 1: “Ghost Stories,” “Messiah,” “Nisman: Death of a Prosecutor,” “Spinning Out,” “The Circle.”

Available Jan. 2: “Sex, Explained: Limited Series,” “Thieves of the Wood.”

Available Jan. 3: “Anne with an E: The Final Season,” “All the Freckles in the World.”

Available Jan. 4: “Go! Go! Cory Carson.”

Available Jan. 8: “Cheer.”

Available Jan. 10: “AJ and the Queen,” “Giri / Haji,” “Harvey Girls Forever!: Season 4,” “The Investigators: Season 2,” “Medical Police,” “Scissor Seven,” “Until Dawn,” “Zumbo’s Just,” “Desserts: Season 2.”

Available Jan. 13: “The Healing Powers of Dude.”

Available Jan. 14: “Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts.”

Available Jan. 15: “Quien a hierro mata,” “Grace and Frankie: Season 6.”

Available Jan. 16: “NiNoKuni.”

Available Jan. 17: “Ares,” “Hip-Hop Evolution: Season 4,” “Sex Education: Season 2,” “Tyler Perry’s A Fall From Grace,” “Vivir dos veces,” “Wer kann, der kann!.”

Available Jan. 20: “Family Reunion: Part 2.”

Available Jan. 21: “Fortune Feimster: Sweet and Salty,” “Word Party: Season 4.”

Available Jan. 22: “Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak.”

Available Jan. 23: “The Ghost Bride,” “October Faction,” “SAINT SEIYA: Knights of the Zodiac: Season 1 / Part 2.”

Available Jan. 24: “The Sun,” “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina: Part 3,” “The Ranch: Final Season.”

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

The Clan tames the Wolves During Conference, Women’s Basketball lose to Canadian neighbors

Hannah Greene  | Sports Editor

Western Women’s Basketball started the new year with GNAC conference games. On Jan. 2 the Wolves took on the Western Washington Vikings, and brought home a win — beating them 73-70 in overtime.

Last Saturday the Wolves played against our Canadian neighbor, Simon Fraser University Clan. Unfortunately, a “dub” was not taken. 

Though the Wolves suffered a GNAC loss, their play throughout the first quarter showed for strength and strong offense. 

Heading into the third quarter, the Wolves were up by five points, not ahead enough to keep the lead – but this changed once the Wolves were able to gain five more points, to put them at 10 points more than the Clan.

The Wolves stayed strong and held their lead into the final quarter where they were met with a locomotive offense — the Clan challenged every play and took advantage of every mistake. 

The Clan was able to put up 27 points, outscoring the Wolves by 15 points. 

The Wolves weren’t done yet, multiple players took it upon themselves to try and regain the lead, among them, Shariah Green who scored 17 points and Amber Winkler who scored 14 points.

Though the Wolves inched back, it wasn’t enough to overthrow the Clan. 25 turnovers caused great effect to the Wolves, the most turnovers this season and since Feb. of last year.

The fourth quarter ended, leaving the Clan ahead 64-57.

Next, the Wolves face off against Concordia University, away at 7 p.m. on Jan. 7. Their next home game is Saturday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Wild in wintertime, 2020 Winter term sports schedule

Hannah Greene  | Sports Editor

Winter Term Sports Schedule, home games as of January 10th.

 

January

    Men’s Basketball

    11th: 4:15 p.m. in NPE vs. Seattle Pacific

    23rd: 7:30 p.m. in NPE vs. Northwest Nazarene

    25th: 4:15 p.m. in NPE vs. Central Washington

   

    Women’s Basketball

    11th: 2 p.m. in NPE vs. Montana State Billings

    23rd: 5:15 p.m. in NPE vs. Northwest Nazarene

    25th: 2 p.m. in NPE vs. Central Washington

   

    Track & Field

    25th & 26th: away @ University of Portland

 

February

    Men’s Basketball

    13th: 7:30 p.m. in NPE vs. Western Washington

    15th: 2 p.m. in NPE vs. Simon Fraser

    27th: 7:30 p.m. in NPE vs. Alaska Anchorage

    29th: 4:15 p.m. in NPE vs. Alaska

   

Women’s Basketball

    4th: 7 p.m. in NPE vs. Concordia

    13th: 5:15 p.m. in NPE vs. Seattle Pacific

    15th: 4:15 p.m. in NPE vs. Saint Martin’s

    27th: 5:15 p.m. in NPE vs. Alaska Anchorage

    29th: 2 p.m. in NPE vs. Alaska

   

 

    Baseball

    29th: 12 p.m. home vs. Montana State Billings

   

Softball

    8th: home vs. Eastern Oregon

March

Baseball

    1st: 12 p.m. home vs. Montana State Billings

    14th: 1 p.m. home vs. Concordia University

    15th: 1 p.m. home vs. Concordia University

    18th: 2 p.m. home vs. George Fox University

 

    Softball

    13th: home vs. Montana State Billings

    14th: home vs. Montana State Billings

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Introducing the new Aquarium Science program

Sage Kiernan-Sherrow  | News Editor

The first of its kind in the state, Western has collaborated with Oregon Coast Community College to design an Aquarium Science program focused on combining foundations in biology and business and applying them in the field. A career-directed degree, Western’s Head of the Biology Department, Michael Baltzley, recognized the need for a program that would offer students real-world experience before entering the field. 

“When I went into biology … I didn’t know where that career was going to take me … you need specific training and volunteer hours for many positions, which provides little income and is impractical. As such, this degree would have been very attractive to me,” Baltzley commented. 

Baltzley partnered with OCCC’s Aquarium Science Coordinator, Larry Bowles, to create the joint program, the foundations of which were already operative at OCCC as both two-year and four-year degrees with certification, both “well-respected programs with advisors all over the country that helped design the programs,” according to Baltzley. 

At Western, the Aquarium Science degree requires students to take their first three years of biology and business courses at Western, before applying to transfer to OCCC for their final year of in-class training in preparation for the workforce. 

“The problem with an Associates degree is that you run into a ceiling when you are trying to get promoted,” Baltzley said; through Western’s Aquarium Science program, “there are more opportunities for advancement.” 

While the program was officially approved by Western’s Board of Trustees on Nov. 20, it has yet to be approved by the Provost Council which is set discuss approval during their meeting on Jan. 6. Upon approval, the final decision will be made by the Higher Education Coordinating Committee sometime in February. The program itself, however, will not appear in the catalog until next fall. Baltzley suggested that students interested in the program should contact biology professors and their advisors to begin modifying their schedules for the Aquarium Science degree in order to get a head-start. He also says that he welcomes student input on the program in the meantime. 

 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

City Manager hesitant to call homelessness an issue in Monmouth

Sage Kiernan-Sherrow  | News Editor

An ongoing issue in Monmouth’s neighboring city of Salem, aspects of homelessness are beginning to become apparent here, as well, with several instances of homeless and transient camping observed in the Monmouth-Independence area. 

According to an article published by the Polk County Itemizer-Observer on Dec. 2, language has been changed to the exclusion ordinance in order to discourage both vandalism to city property, as well as homeless camps from setting up. Despite this, the ordinance changes are not explicitly anti-camping, and according to Monmouth’s interim City Manager, Chad Olsen, the city has no plans to design anti-homeless protocols. 

“I’ve seen instances, but I wouldn’t categorize homelessness as an issue in Monmouth,” said Olsen, citing a few occasions where people camped on city property and one where a transient person was travelling through town. 

“Typically, you would see more of an issue in terms of homeless or transient populations in the county seat, because we just don’t have the services here to provide for those groups,” Olsen stated.

Despite Olsen not anticipating homelessness becoming an issue, a warming center has opened in Monmouth, and the council is currently looking at creating a group with a set of bylaws eligible to become part of the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance. The group would make a request to Housing and Urban Development — which allocates funds across the state for eligible groups — and is looking to become an independent organization, according to Olsen.

Olsen also assures that homelessness is on the City Council’s radar as a potential issue and that there are currently discussions being had about what strategies to utilize in the future.

 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Slide, glide and skate at ice skating rinks

Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

An activity that becomes popular around the winter season is ice skating, and can be a fun way to get out with friends during the holiday break. Here are a few places sprinkled around the northwest.

Lloyd Center Ice Rink is located at 953 Lloyd Center in Portland, and is directly in the center of the mall. Found right across from Macy’s on the first floor, the ice rink provides an opportunity for patrons to freestyle skate, take skating lessons or even reserve for a birthday party. 

Lessons can be for people from preschool to adult level, and cost $123 for 30 minutes a week for seven weeks of classes, but is currently on sale for $113 until Jan. 4. Those who sign up for lessons get free admission to all public skating times from the sign up day through the seven weeks of lessons, along with free rental of skates on the day of class. Lessons for current registration will run from Jan. 6–Feb. 22. For advanced competitive skaters, there are 45–60 minute sessions that cost $12 for drop-ins and $105 for a 10 punch card. Admission currently for the holiday season from Dec. 14–Jan. 5 is $20 and $4 to rent skates. Their hours are Monday 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. but is closed on Christmas, Thursday 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m., Saturday 1 p.m.–8:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. More information can be found at lloydice.com.

Mountain View Ice Arena, located in Vancouver, WA at 14313 Mill Plain Blvd., also has private and public lessons and availability. Potential customers have the opportunity to take private lessons for both figure skating and hockey. Each sport has different coaches available to choose from, and times that are available and fees vary from person to person. For individuals that are new to ice skating in general, their Learn to Skate program offers group lessons from four year olds to seasoned veteran skaters. Sessions are held once a week for eight or nine weeks, and are all taught by experienced skaters. The current price for public admission is about $10 with a $4 skate rental fee, and passes of various lengths can be bought for $299–$899. Their schedule varies each week and day-to-day, but generally times are from anywhere between 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Look at their website mtviewice.com for more information.

Winter Village is in Hillsboro at Jerry Willey Plaza at 943 NE Orenco Station Loop. It opened on Nov. 29 for it’s fifth season, and is an open-air ice skating area. There isn’t any online or pre-sale options to purchase at this location, however tickets are available to purchase 15 minutes before the skating session begins. General public admission costs $13 for ages 12 and older and $10 for ages 4–11. Family packages can be bought for $40; rental for skates is $5. Private sessions are available for Mondays, toddlers get to skate on Tuesdays and public skating is from 10 a.m.–9:30 p.m. with schedules varying for the holidays — the rink will close early on Dec. 24 and will be closed fully on Dec. 25 for Christmas day.

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Enjoy another festive holiday dessert with this Hanukkah pastry

Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

Christmas isn’t the only holiday that happens in December — Hanukkah takes place just before Christmas, and lasts eight days. Here’s a Jewish pastry recipe that can be made during this holiday.

 

NUTELLA RUGELACH

Start to finish: 1 hour 45 minutes

Yields: 48

For the dough:

8 ounces (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

½ cup sugar

3 large egg yolks

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Pinch of coarse salt

2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling out dough

For the filling:

4 ounces walnuts 

½ cup sugar

¼ teaspoon of cinnamon

Pinch of salt

12 oz nutella (jam or chocolate chips can be substituted)

For finishing:

3 egg whites, lightly beaten

 

Make the dough: In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together butter and cream cheese at medium speed. Add sugar, and beat until fluffy. Beat in egg yolks, one at a time, beating to combine after each addition. Add vanilla and salt, and beat to combine. Reduce speed to low, and beat in flour. Remove from bowl, and divide into three pieces on a lightly floured surface. Pat into disks, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour, and up to overnight.

Make the filling: In a food processor, combine walnuts, sugar, cinnamon and salt. Pulse until fine.

Preheat the oven to 350 F°. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll one piece of dough into a 12-inch round, less than ⅛ inch thick. Spread evenly with nutella (it may help to have the nutella a bit melted so it doesn’t tear the dough while spreading). Sprinkle with ⅓  of the walnut mixture. Gently press ingredients into dough with your fingers.

Cut the round into 16 equal-sized wedges (triangle shaped like pizza slices). Beginning at the base of each wedge, roll to enclose filling, forming crescent shapes. Pinch to seal. Place on prepared baking sheets. Repeat with remaining dough and filling ingredients. Brush tops with beaten egg white. Bake until golden brown, 25 minutes.

Recipe from eatingbirdfood.com

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

First Year, First Race, First Record

Hannah Greene  | Sports Editor

The ending of Cross Country means the start of Indoor Track and Field, and the welcoming of new members to the team.

Maya Hopwood joined the Wolves this season and right off the blocks made an impact. 

During Hopwood’s first collegiate meet, she set a new school record in the 55 meter sprint, with a time of 7.02 seconds.

Not only did Hopwood break a Western school record, but also earned GNAC Track Athlete of the Week honors.

For a first year, Hopwood is starting on the right foot and gaining well deserved recognition.

The Wolves’ track team return Jan. 18 to start their indoor season in Seattle, Washington.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Hoop yeah, Men’s Basketball sleigh over break

Hannah Greene  | Sports Editor

Men’s Basketball held their final exhibition game on Dec. 14, against the Corban University Warriors. After a rough start to their GNAC conference, losing to both Alaska and Alaska Anchorage, the Wolves came home and dominated over their rival Warriors.

This game was no back and forth battle, but a high scoring game with long point streaks. 

During the second half, the Wolves were able to counter on every mishap the Warriors created, from turnovers to steals — scoring 21 points. 

The final score ended with the Wolves ahead by 20 points, beating the Warriors 91-71. 

This was the Wolves ninth consecutive win over the Warriors since 2002, and this game being won with the most points.

On Dec. 20 the Wolves took on #6 Dixie State University, with another blowout — beating them 91-75, a great sendoff into a New Year. The Men’s Basketball play Concordia next, on Dec. 31 at 2 p.m. at home.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Movie Review: Bong Joon Ho’s masterpiece “Parasite”

Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

It’s hard to really capture the brilliance of the 2019 South Korean film, “Parasite” within one article, with the cleverly constructed dialogue written and directed by Bong Joon Ho, as well as the striking filmography and acting.

The plot follows the impoverished family of dad Kim Ki-taek, his wife Chung-sook, son Ki-woo, and daughter Ki-jeong living in a small semi-basement apartment where they struggle to make ends meet.

Ki-woo has a friend Min-hyuk who is leaving his tutoring job with a wealthy family to study abroad, and asks Ki-woo to take over for him. While he is not in a university and has no classical training, he gets the job by lying.

This is the start of the journey as the Kim clan infiltrates the influential Park family slowly, with an almost eerie precision. The stark contrast between how the Kim family lives versus the Park family calls into question issues of class in a satirical way. 

While the film feels generally unnerving, it takes a complete 180 to shock audience members and become completely unsettling and disturbing. The harmless and functioning relationship between the Park and Kim family becomes strained as judgment and ignorance pierces through.

The film does an exceptional job in showing the ways that those who are impoverished are treated poorly in subtle ways, and the effect that it has on them is greater than many would assume. The film also calls to question how money influences the way people behave and addressing the advantages it gives the wealthy.

After the film ended, I sat there wondering how realistic a plot like this would be in real life, the dramatic and violent turn it took was so shocking, but with the strain of poverty, wealth and social interactions it is a haunting tale of what people can be pushed to do.

Overall Rating: “Parasite” is now one of my favorite films I have ever seen, it was well-crafted, intelligent and kept me on the edge of my seat. Joon Ho takes current issues of socioeconomic class and put together an entertaining and shocking masterpiece. I highly recommend this film to anyone in need of watching something new with an exciting twist.

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Heartworm, a dream pop group ready to release music

Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

There are many interesting bands in the making, included is New Orleans based, Heartworm. I was able to grab an interview with musician Dani Kardon, who is originally from Portland, OR. 

 

Q: How long have you been practicing music? 

A: I’ve been playing music for about 12 years now, I’ve jumped around from guitar to vocals to piano a fair amount! 

Q: What got you interested in music? 

A: I think just being a kid and loving the act of being loud and making noise probably, I get more and more into it the more I play, I think the interest just feeds itself!

Q: How would you say your music has changed over the years? 

A: My music changes a lot with what I’m listening to definitely. I grew up on old soul, the motown collection, all that. But I cycle through musical phases and I think I just pick up little bits of everything that I like and shove ‘em into my songs.

Q: How did you and your band get together? 

A: Me, Eryn (Bass) and Sabrina (Guitar) work/worked at the school of rock Metairie together, and Hannah (Drums) was in a band with Sab before. We just kind of were like, “okay let’s jam on some songs” and then it turned into hanging out and playing music, and then it turned into “okay we definitely need to be a band.” I would just like to put on record that I f**king love them.

Q: What is your position in the band?

A: I’m just like the singer — whatever else needs to be done person. I play keys a lot for the band. I’m also one of the songwriters in the band! I’m also the baby, that is another role I play. But like, boss baby.

Q: What are the future goals for your band? 

A: I think just ride the wave as long as possible. If it works it’ll be amazing and if it doesn’t it will still be amazing while it lasts. All of us take it seriously but at the same time very much don’t take it seriously, does that make sense? I’d love to tour and release albums obviously, that feels like it’s way in the future, but we’ve already recorded enough for a small EP so I guess it’s not so mystical and far away.

Q: How would you describe the style of music your band does? 

A: Lazy Punk and Dream Pop, what does that mean? Wouldn’t you like to know. We would also like to know. I dunno, just listen to us! People will figure it out.

Q: When can listeners expect music to be released? 

A: The middle of January! Like soon soon.  

Q: What is your favorite part about creating music? 

A: I love the song writing process, and what’s so amazing is taking a song to a band and watching it turn into the thing that you had in your head, or even better than what was in your head.

Q: Anything else you would like to add? 

A: Our merch is stupid cool, it was specially designed by a girl at Loyola named Maggie Chreene who is like a Goddess amongst women, and we’re working on an online store to buy it. Not to brag but a tik tok of her making the merch got like 10K likes. So yeah that’ll be something to watch for, because they really are gorgeous, we love Maggie. I’ll put the link in here. Also just thank you so much for interviewing me about my band, we love the interest people have been having in us and we’re so eager to share our music and lil band with everyone!

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Hit the slopes at these locations during winter break

Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

With December comes the winter season, which in turn brings snow — albeit, rarely when in Oregon. During Western’s winter break, try visiting these places in Oregon with friends or family to get in some skiing or snowboarding during vacation.

Mt. Bachelor is located in Bend at 13000 SW Century Dr. It’s open every day, and has a live weather cam on their website to inform visitors about the current amount of snow that’s on the mountain. The conditions report can be found by clicking the “what’s open” option on the main home page, which then gives the viewer an update on the state of the resort. They have a variety of winter-related activities available to patrons, such as skiing, snowboarding and sled dog rides. In addition, for customers who do not have their own snow gear, there are rental options for equipment from helmets to snowboards. Rental packages vary from about $55 to a little over $200. 

Season passes can be bought in advance and work for the 2019-2020 winter season — which varies but is typically from November to May. Their lift opened Friday, Dec. 13, and is available to use from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. The cafe they have available for use is open from 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. The West Village Mountain Gateway Building is open from 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. More information in regards to passes, hours and rentals can be found on their website mtbachelor.com.

Mt. Hood’s Timberline Lodge offers lessons and various lodging options for guests; similar to Mt. Bachelor, Timberline also has a weather conditions monitor on their website. It provides updates on the temperature, snow levels and amount of fresh snow that has fallen, with pictures that are frequently updated to physically showcase the amount of snow in each area. From snow tubing to snowshoeing, it provides multiple options for winter activities for everyone. There are lifts scattered throughout the lodge along with two terrains for guests to roam. 

The operating hours for the Schoolyard and Thunder terrains are from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Multiple bundle packages for lodging and activities vary in price from around $100 to about $500. The season passes for adults is $439, and pass holders are able to gain discounts around the lodge and shops. Even more prices, deals and information can be found at timberlinelodge.com.

Hoodoo Ski Area in Eugene is not currently open for the 2019-2020 winter season, but will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, along with holidays, from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. In the meantime, prospective customers can check on the current state of the mountain using the webcams and updating system on the website. Ski lessons will be available for groups, private or both, and the levels for each lesson vary by the individual or group skill level. In addition to skiing, there is snow tubing and a multitude of events for the public to attend. More information can be found at skihoodoo.com. 

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Get festive with these Christmas themed iced sugar cookies

Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

Once the holidays come around, my household becomes filled with various sweets and treats for family dinners. An easy and fun recipe that I do with my mom is Christmas themed sugar cookies. Here’s the recipe she uses — try it out with friends or family members during this holiday baking season.

 

CHRISTMAS SUGAR COOKIES

Start to finish: 4 hours and 30 minutes

For the classic sugar cookies: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon baking powder

¾ cups (or 1 ½ sticks) unsalted, softened butter

2 tablespoons cold vegetable shortening

⅔ cup sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the basic royal icing: 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

2 large egg whites

2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

MAKING THE CLASSIC SUGAR COOKIES

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt and baking powder, and set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla and beat until just combined. Add the flour mixture and mix until incorporated. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Dust a work surface with a sprinkling of flour. Unwrap the chilled dough, and put it directly on the work surface. Roll the dough ¼ inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutter to cut shapes in the dough, and transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets.

Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, until they are set but not browned. Remove from the oven and place the baking sheet on a cooling rack for 5 minutes. Use a spatula to transfer the cookies to the rack to cool completely.

MAKE THE BASIC ROYAL ICING

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg whites and lemon juice until the mixture is completely smooth. The mixture should have the texture of a glaze. If the mixture is too thin, add a bit more sugar. If the mixture is too thick, add a few drops of lemon juice. You can add a few drops of food coloring if desired, or you can divide the icing among many mixing bowls if you need more than one color.

The best way to ice sugar cookies is with a pastry bag fitted with a small or medium tip. First, outline the cookie or design, then fill it in. Let the icing harden before serving.

The cookies can be kept in an airtight container for up to three days.

Recipe from “BAKED: New Frontiers in Baking” by Matt Lewis and Renato Poliafito.

 

Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

Square Inch Arts: A small gallery with a substantial amount of talent

Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

Nestled neatly in the neighborhood of Sellwood in Portland, Oregon is the Square Inch Gallery owned and ran by artist Gia Whitlock. The gallery showcases the art of five other artists that Whitlock knows including Gigi Reavis, David Frediman, Sharon Greenwood, Jill Mayberh and Kat Perkins.

The gallery had a grand opening in the summer of 2019, but didn’t have regular business hours until October of this year. Whitlock opens the gallery from 10 a.m. to 5p.m. on Saturdays.

To enter the gallery, you walk alongside a house, like one might go to enter the backyard, and when you walk through the door, the name Square Inch Arts couldn’t be more fitting. The cozy gallery is small in size, but doesn’t leave viewers feeling claustrophobic. The space originally was a waiting room for a chiropractor, but the brightly colored walls and eye catching art opens up the space, leaving a more intimate feeling. 

Most of the artist’s work is in a specific spot, except for Whitlock’s paintings which are sprinkled throughout the gallery, this pattern creates a flow for viewers to follow easily. The art is for sale and quite reasonably priced, and for those who cannot afford a painting, there are smaller knick knacks such as postcards, puzzles, journals and small prints available by a couple artists.

The variety of art available is appealing such as mugs, paper cut outs, large oil canvases, realistic drawings, mixed media, embroidered hoops and several other pieces which leave viewers with plenty to look at in the quaint space.

Whitlock, who began painting in 2007, stated that, “I used to do intuitive paintings and try to have all these ideas, and they all just ended up like birds. I need to look at something.” I predominantly all her paintings are based off of flowers that she looks at, intermingling collage bits and other mediums to make it more than just a still life painting. Whitlock offers Paint Days at her gallery. Her studio is within the building of the exhibit, where those who are interested can pay to paint their own floral still life with Whitlock guiding and helping them throughout the process.

Whitlock says that, “The idea is to eventually have group shows, Sellwood has lots of shows throughout the year … I think it would be fun to bring some art in to those.”

Those who are interested in viewing art for free should swing by the cozy gallery at 1330 SE Malden St. in Portland, where sweet treats and tea are available while taking a look at the diverse art exhibited.

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Review of the 2019 remake, “Black Christmas”

Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

“Black Christmas,” a mystery slasher film centered on the murder of a sorority sister, was originally created and directed by Bob Clark in 1974. Clark later directed “Christmas Story,” a great balance of genres. In the original he relied heavily on the shrouded identity of the killer, and in the end, never revealed the villain.

The 2006 remake, directed by Glen Morgan,  went the opposite route and made it pretty obvious who the masked killer was, leaving little for the audience to think about.

Sadly, the 2019 remake directed by Sophia Takal followed suit and all the twists and turns that happened were obvious from a mile away, leaving no mystery for the audience and ending up quite a basic horror film.

A key difference in the plot, however, with the 2019 remake is the feminism aspect and spotlight on sexual assault issues on college campuses. 

Mysterious hooded figures with weird black goo on their faces are murdering members of a sorority, and the main protagonist Riley, played by Imogen Poots, is left to try and discover who is after her friends. Riley does not trust the authorities to help her after she was raped on campus and her rapist went unpunished. 

While there was some bad acting in the film, and a general predictability, I think that including a character who has gone through a trauma with no justice reflects current day issues with sexual assaults, especially on college campuses. The villains in the film want to put women back in their place, and reclaim male dominance in society, which reflects the toxic masculinity and sexism that is also prevalent today. 

Overall Rating: While I wouldn’t necessarily say that a second remake was needed of the Canadian horror film, and the acting wasn’t quite believable, the underlying feminism and attention to #MeToo was an interesting twist and brought something unique to the film. The “who done it” aspect was not available, because the killers were quite obvious in the film, but the motives for their rampage was different than I expected. All around, not a bad horror film; for those that prefer something a little more sinister on the holidays, “Black Christmas” is entertaining enough and touches on more serious issues.

 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

New Year, new WOU — former Western athlete qualifies for 2020 Olympic Trials

Hannah Greene  | Sports Editor

Kennedy Rufener, an Oregon native and two-time All-American Western athlete qualified for the 2020 Olympic trials after running a mark of 2:44:17 during the California International Marathon.

During the marathon, Rufener placed 474th overall, after competing against 7,502 other runners. Out of the women’s section, Rufener placed in the top-100, taking 56th place out of 3,273 other female runners.

During her two years, 2016-2017, at Western, Rufener broke five school records, was a two-time All-American — hypothetical sports teams made of the top eight finishers in each event — an All-Region qualifier in cross country and earned many other accolades during her time as a Wolf. 

Rufener’s top indoor 5k marked at a 17:24 and her best mile finishing with a 4:57. 

Right around the corner, Rufener is given the chance to compete in the 2020 Olympic Trials on Feb. 29 to try and take her place on the USA Team to compete in Tokyo, Japan. An opportunity  like that doesn’t happen all the time, and will be a great experience to add to the resume. 

Currently, Rufener is helping coach for the Western Washington track and field and cross country programs, while also training herself for the big day.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Overthrown in Alaska

Hannah Greene  | Sports Editor

During the week before finals, Dec. 5 and 7, Western’s Women’s Basketball team had a long journey up to face two Alaska teams, their first games to start the GNAC conference.

The first game the Wolves were tested, as they played the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the Nanooks. The Wolves held control for most of the game, maintaining the first three quarters — but fell during the final quarter to give way to a 14-point streak from the Nanooks, to tie up the game, and go into overtime. 

Overtime proved to be in favor of the Nanooks, who took the lead and countered on every mistake made by the Wolves. The first conference game came to an end, and the Nanooks took home the dub with 81 points over the Wolves’ 76.

The Wolves put up a tough fight, but allowed for a lot of mess ups that the Nanooks were able to put towards their winning.

Night two, the Wolves played against the #13 Alaska Anchorage Seawolves, for their second GNAC conference game. The final results proved to be an absolute blowout, with the Seawolves winning 73-41. An unlucky night for the Wolves, losing to their sisters of the sea.

Overall, it was a great weekend for the Wolves, with many learning opportunities and a place they can only go up from. Two standout players in both matches included, Keyonna Jones, a junior guard, and Rachel Rogers, a sophomore guard, both scoring multiple points to help out their fellow Wolves.

The Women’s Basketball team overcame and beat Corban University, a non-conference game, to bring some confidence back into the players — and will travel and face Boise State University Broncos in an exhibition game on Dec. 18 at 11 a.m. The next home game is Jan. 2 versus GNAC opponent, Western Washington University Vikings at 5:15 p.m.

 

Contact the author at hgreene18@wou.edu

Western’s 52nd annual Holiday Tree Lighting lit up the night

Sage Kiernan-Sherrow  | News Editor

Despite the rainy atmosphere present on December 6, students gathered together for Western’s 52nd annual holiday tree lighting, lining both sides of Monmouth Avenue with anticipation. Some stood with hands wrapped around the free drinks offered by Student Engagement, huddling with fellow students to escape the cold while waiting for the parade to start. 

Beginning at 6 p.m., the parade was led by Western’s American Sign Language Club, later followed by the sirens of the Monmouth Police Department not to be outdone by Western’s own marching band. During the procession, both the Director and Associate Director of Student Engagement, Patrick Moser and Megan Habermann, respectively, opted to tell holiday-themed jokes before the crowning moment of the parade — Santa’s arrival. 

Afterwards, Western’s president, Rex Fuller, addressed the crowd, calling for students to “treat each other and ourselves with care and compassion” during this season of giving. Then, he invited everyone to participate in the countdown whereupon, finally, the famous giant sequoia that sits next to Todd Hall — which, prior to the event, had been strung up with lights — was lit, indicating that the parade celebrations were over, but the holiday season was only beginning. 

Students looking for further celebrations congregated at the Gentle House for snacks and wine, while others headed into the Werner University Center to meet with Santa and get into the holiday spirit. 

 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Through student demand, new support groups have developed

Sage Kiernan-Sherrow  | News Editor

Though many are still in the process of being formulated, students seeking community on campus now have the ability to participate in one of Western’s various new support groups. The support groups were created based on student initiative and are run by fellow students with a faculty supervisor — usually a professional from the Student Health and Counseling Center. The following are just a few examples of what is currently being offered.

 

The Building Resilience in College Workshop Series:

 

This 10-week workshop series beginning in winter term is open to all students and does not require consistent attendance. It focuses on building life skills while balancing all of the responsibilities required as a college student. Each week focuses around a specific topic ranging from how to be a critical thinker to maintaining healthy friendships and relationships. In addition to this workshop, there will be a separate four-week course on healthy relationships during winter term, run by Megan Miller, a mental health counselor at Western who hopes to “increase student’s communication in relationships and allow a deeper understanding of what they wish to gain in a relationship … through personal reflection, discussion and group activities.” Dates and times for both events are to be determined.

 

The Men of Color Support Group:

 

Run by Miguel Gonzales, a mental health counselor at the SHCC, the Men of Color Support Group was created with the intention to “discuss cultural barriers, successes, discrimation, empowerment, acculturation, and … other topics that group members are interested in discussing,” said Gonzales. It is designed for men of color to receive peer support while being able to discuss both personal experiences and overarching issues. The winter term meeting time is to be determined, so students interested in joining can look for a future email from Gonzales.

 

The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Support Group:

 

Focusing on “psychoeducation surrounding autism, shared and common experiences people with autism face as well as skill building and coping skills to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors,” as reported by mental health counselor, Katie Endersby, the ASD Support Group is open to all — no diagnosis required. Any student interested in learning about the autism spectrum can join, but meeting times are currently to be determined. 

 

It is particularly important to note that groups may not run all year. To find groups operating during the current term, visit the Student Health and Counseling webpage. Additionally, some groups require an intake appointment with a counselor through the Student Health and Counseling Center before approval. However, there are many groups that do not have this prerequisite and any student with an idea for creating a group can reach out to the Student Health and Counseling center by calling 503-838-8313.

 

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

This week in completely made up horoscopes

[fruitful_tabs type=”accordion” width=”100%” fit=”false”]

[fruitful_tab title=”Aries 3/21-4/19″] LET ME BE FREE [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Taurus 4/20-5/20″] You may feel like a zombie, everything hanging on by tendrils… but don’t worry — you’re so so so so sooooooooo close. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Gemini 5/21-6/20″] Maybe let your twin take over for finals? The stars wish you good luck. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Cancer 6/21-7/22″] Can I go home yet? [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Leo 7/23-8/22″] This is your call to action. What for? Who knows… but do something I guess… [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Virgo 8/23-9/22″] AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Libra 9/23-10/22″] pippity poppity give me the zoppity [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Scorpio 10/23-11/21″] Some advice while the end of the term nears: try eating honey every other day. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Sagittarius 11/22-12/21″] IT’S SAGITTARIUS SEASON. K bye. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Capricorn 12/22-1/19″] Are you regretting putting off all of those assignments until now? Four days before they’re due? Same. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Aquarius 1/20-2/18″] Hold onto your last brain cell, Aquarius. You only need it for one more week. [/fruitful_tab]

[fruitful_tab title=”Pisces 2/19-3/20″] It’s cold af outside but not snowing. How am I supposed to get away with skipping class everyday this week without snow? [/fruitful_tab]

[/fruitful_tabs]

Western Oregon University

Facebook   Instagram   X  YouTube

WESTERN OREGON UNIVERSITY
345 Monmouth Ave. N.
Monmouth OR 97361

503-838-8000 | 1-877-877-1593

Tools

Campus Maps
Canvas
Find People
Portal
WOU Email
Technical Support

Resources

A-Z Index
Accessibility
Academic Calendar
Class Schedule
Jobs at WOU
News
Explore WOU
Partnerships
Student Services
Freedom of Expression

Western Oregon University’s Land Acknowledgement
Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

Accessibility    Public Records    Privacy    Student Consumer Information

WOU prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by WOU.