What the Signs bring to Thanksgiving
Aries: Literally everything
Taurus: Turducken
Gemini: half a bottle of wine and store-bought potato salad
Cancer: The booze
Leo: The drama
Virgo: a really good but weird dessert nobody’s ever had before
Libra: Burnt Mac and cheese
Scorpio: A ham encased in jell-o
Sagittarius: The good brownies 😉
Capricorn: Bear ribs
Aquarius: Their own experimental version of green bean casserole
Pisces: Half-eaten pumpkin pie
Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor
During the last decade of the 19th century, Native Americans began to take part in public entertainment. Buffalo Bill employed Native Americans in his “Wild West” shows, bringing them, along with buffalo and horses, to Europe to act in romanticized depictions of cowboys, Plains Natives and outlaws.
As the movie industry evolved, Native Americans were presented as a documentary subject — inventor Thomas Edison captured Lakota ghost dancers on early forms of cameras. The “hostile savage” stereotype first appeared on camera in the 1914 film “The Battle of Elderbush Gulch,” and became synonymous with the Western genre. In the 1950s, John Wayne was at his most macho when he was “finishing the job,” or shooting a Native who was already in their grave. Even the 1953 animated film “Peter Pan” portrays a romanticized stereotype of Natives.
These films hide the true story of what Natives endured, instead pushing “manifest destiny,” or the idea that white settlers were ordained to move west and control North America. In the post-war period, Natives were forced to live on reservations, struggled for rights and political influence and couldn’t own businesses or property outside of reservations. When the 1965 Voting Rights Act was passed — more commonly associated with the breakthrough for African American civil rights — Native Americans were given the right to vote in every state. The more defined Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968 allowed them to push for more historical and realistic media representation without fear.
The 1970 film “Soldier Blue” was a more empathetic and realistic view of Natives, as they were involved in the filmmaking process. The movie is an allegory for the Vietnam War, wherein a soldier is enlisted to hunt Native Americans but realizes the horror of an invader army killing people on the land they are from.
Cree activist Buffy Sainte-Marie, who wrote the title track for the movie, had said, “No one knows Soldier Blue in North America. I can guarantee you won’t find three people in the U.S. who know it. It was taken out of the theaters after a few days. … Why? What year did Soldier Blue come out? 1970? Oh, that’ll be Richard Nixon.” Sainte-Marie was also blacklisted in the United States for her political activism by J. Edgar Hoover and the Federal Bureau of Investigation during this time.
Of course, Native American representation in the media has evolved since the days of John Wayne and Richard Nixon. The comedy-drama show “Reservation Dogs” — fondly called “Rez Dogs” by fans — follows four Native American teenagers growing up on a reservation in eastern Oklahoma. The 2021 show features an almost entirely Native American cast and crew, marking a breakthrough for Indigenous representation in the media.
The 2023 movie “Killers of the Flower Moon” details the 1920 murders of members of the Osage Tribe, when oil was found on Osage tribal land and local political bosses sought to take control. “Killers of the Flower Moon” was nominated for 10 Academy Awards and seven Golden Globe Awards, where lead actress Lily Gladstone won Best Actress in a Motion Picture.
“I’m excited to see more Native people actually get representation,” said Western junior Morgan Pemberton. Pemberton is Mi’kmaq and Algonquin from the Kopit Clan and the social media manager for Western’s Native Indigenous Culture Club.
“I think for a long time, even in the 2010s they were still just painting people,” she added, referencing Johnny Depp’s role as Tonto in “The Lone Ranger.”
“I see a lot of (Natives) online talk about how people in interviews will try to get them (to) talk in the traditional Native accent, which is not always accurate. I think even in having just one Native character, they’re a one-dimensional version of what Native people look like when I don’t always think that’s the case.”
Pemberton also talked about how a majority of people who watch shows like “Reservation Dogs” are not likely to be white people, but rather other Natives. The show, after all, is a love letter to Natives, from Natives.
“Not that we have to make everything to teach white people about what (it is) to be Native, but I feel like when they want to include Native people, they want to include a stereotypical Native person, which I think does a service and a disservice. It’s an only good or bad thing.”
Pemberton also spoke about how, growing up, she watched the Disney movies “Pocahontas” and “The Lone Ranger,” considering them less-than-perfect representations of Native Americans. Depp’s role in the latter was a big deal in her house.
“Pocahontas” is considered perhaps the worst modern representation of Natives and Native history. A romanticized retelling of when the first white colonists arrived in the Americas, the titular figure’s story has little historical accuracy. Pocahontas, whose true name was Matoaka, was around 10 or 11 when the Virginia Company came to North America and did not save John Smith’s life. A few years after the colonists’ arrival, she was taken captive and converted to Christianity. When Matoaka was 18, she married John Rolfe, who was 10 years her senior and had a son named Thomas a year later.
Matoaka was then taken to England and paraded around as a celebrity, presented as an example of a “civilized savage.” In 1617, the family set sail with the intent to return to Virginia, but the voyage was halted as Matoaka and Thomas both fell ill, and both mother and son died in Gravesend, Kent, England. The location of their bodies is unknown, and Matoaka is considered the first Missing and Murdered Indigenous Woman, or MMIW.
“It’s really good that we have Native representation because brown Native people are more discriminated against, so having them highlighted is something I really enjoy. I do hope that there is a future in which there is nuance in talking about Natives and I think that starts in classrooms making sure teachers understand what Native identities are,” Pemberton said.
Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu
Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor
The Western Oregon Wolves hosted the Angelo State Rams on a special night of football under the banner of military appreciation. The game began with both teams testing each other’s defenses and finding early success in the kicking game. Western and Angelo State each managed to drive into field goal range, but both teams fell short of the end zone. Kickers from each side capitalized, and the first quarter ended with a 3-3 tie.
The action-packed second quarter began with Angelo State making its first major statement of the night. They scored the game’s first touchdown within the first two minutes of the quarter, taking a 10-3 lead. Before Western could regroup, Angelo struck again, finding the end zone less than three minutes later. The Rams’ quick two-touchdown burst put the Wolves in a 17-3 hole, but the Wolves refused to back down. Western responded with a deep ball from quarterback Michael Gibson to Damon Hickok that shifted the momentum toward the offense. Shortly after, a clutch reception by Kade Hustler allowed the Wolves to secure a crucial first down, pushing them to the doorstep of the end zone. However, a fumble at the 5-yard line gave Angelo State possession, squashing Western’s hopes for a touchdown on that drive. Fortunately, the Wolves’ defense stepped up when it mattered most, forcing Angelo State into a field goal attempt.
Andrew Simpson’s electric kick return set Western up at the 25-yard line, sparking another drive. A series of clutch plays brought the Wolves within 10 yards of the goal line, but they couldn’t punch it in. Western settled for a field goal from Keaton Emmett, narrowing the score to 17-6.
Just when it seemed like Angelo State was going to take over the game, Western’s special teams delivered a game-changing play. A blocked field goal, courtesy of an impressive effort by Cody Hall, was recovered in the end zone for a Wolves touchdown. Emmett added the extra point with a kick, and Western clapped back to make the score 17-13.
Western’s defense continued to dominate, stopping Angelo’s kick return at the 15-yard line and applying pressure. A stand-out play from the defense was when Daron Ulrich Jr. forced an incomplete pass on a potential Angelo touchdown. Although the Wolves were able to regain possession with about 30 seconds left in the half, time ran out before they could add any more points to the board.
At halftime, the Wolves trailed 17-13, but the momentum was finally on their side.
Angelo State came out of the locker room with renewed energy, scoring a touchdown early and adding the extra point to start the third quarter, extending their lead to 24-13. Western’s offense worked hard to respond, with Damon Hickok making key plays to inch closer toward the end zone. While the Wolves couldn’t capitalize with a touchdown, they managed to add a field goal, trimming the score to 24-16.
However, Angelo State’s offense was on a roll. They answered with another touchdown and extra point, building a 31-16 lead. Despite the deficit, Western’s defense continued to fight, with Joseph Northcutt delivering a sack to stop an Angelo drive. The Wolves’ efforts kept the score steady at 31-16 heading into the final quarter.
The fourth quarter opened with a bang as Aaron Woodard delivered a monster hit that set the tone for a physical finish. Both teams dug in, with defenses dominating and possessions going back and forth. Western managed to produce some highlight-reel moments, such as Andrew Simpson’s kick return that left defenders stuck in the turf, and an acrobatic catch from Kade Hustler that kept the Wolves’ hopes alive.
Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, the Wolves’ offense couldn’t find the spark needed to close the gap. Angelo State’s defense held tight, stopping the Wolves’ final pushes. Both teams traded stops as the clock ticked down, and the game ended with Angelo State securing a hard-fought 38-16 victory.
The 2024 season has sadly come to an end, but the Wolves showed significant improvement compared to last year. This season, Western finished with an overall record of 6-5, and 6-3 in conference play — a notable leap from the previous season’s 3-8 overall record and 2-6 league performance. It was inspiring to see Western’s dedicated fans, players, and staff come together to support the team through these hard-fought games. Their passion and commitment have built tremendous anticipation for the upcoming season.
Contact the author at howlsports@mail.wou.edu
Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor
The path to the NBA is often filled with trials, tribulations and triumphs. Bronny James Jr., the eldest son of NBA legend LeBron James, has had a unique and challenging journey that is different from most players. Born into the shadow of one of the greatest basketball players of all time, James Jr. has carved his path, proving that he is more than just a name.
James Jr. was born Oct. 6, 2004, in Cleveland, Ohio, during his father’s early years with the Cleveland Cavaliers. From a young age, it was evident that basketball was in his blood. Watching his dad dominate in the NBA did nothing but influence James Jr.’s passion for the game.
Despite growing up with access to everything the NBA had to offer, James Jr. faced significant pressure to live up to his father’s legacy. However, his parents made sure that he had a balanced upbringing.
James Jr. attended Sierra Canyon School in Chatsworth, California, a powerhouse for basketball talent. Joining the program in 2019, he immediately gained national attention. Playing alongside other top recruits and future NBA players, like Ziaire Williams and Amari Bailey, allowed James Jr. to find his style.
As a freshman, James Jr. showed flashes of brilliance. Even though his stats didn’t jump off the page, he showcased a high basketball IQ, higher than most players his age.
Over the years, James Jr.’s game matured. Standing at 6-foot-3-inches, he developed into a two-way guard capable of playing on or off the ball. His defensive presence, court vision and playmaking ability became trademarks of his game.
Unfortunately for James Jr., being LeBron James’ son comes with immense expectations. Every game James Jr. played was analyzed heavily by critics, fans and social media platforms. Comparisons to his father were inevitable, but James Jr. handled the pressure with remarkable composure.
In addition to pressure from the outside world, James Jr. faced the challenge of playing in the social media age. Highlights of his games would go viral within minutes, and any perceived misstep was put on a pedestal. Yet James Jr. remained focused, leaning on his family and inner circle for support.
After an impressive high school career, James Jr. received offers from all around the country but eventually committed to the University of Southern California — USC. This decision was a pivotal moment in his journey. Staying close to home, he joined a winning program with a strong roster. The move allowed him to develop under a skilled coaching staff, while also continuing to build his brand in Los Angeles.
His resilience was tested further in the summer of 2023 when James Jr. suffered a cardiac arrest during a practice session at USC. The incident sent shockwaves through the basketball world, but fortunately, James Jr. recovered and returned to the court.
As a freshman at USC, James Jr. did not put up game-breaking numbers. He had his moments, but once again, what caught the eyes of NBA scouts was his defense and basketball IQ. He embraced a leadership role at USC and was able to showcase his ability to control the tempo of the game while also regularly defending the opposing team’s best player. His combination of skills, basketball IQ and intangibles made him a top prospect for the NBA draft. While he may not have been the most athletic or dominant player on the court, his poised gameplay and mental approach set him apart.
In 2024, James Jr. declared for the NBA Draft, fulfilling a lifelong dream. The basketball world was filled with anticipation as he worked out for teams and attended the NBA Combine. His workouts and interviews showcased his maturity, proving he was ready for the next level.
Draft night was a historic moment, as James Jr. was selected as the 55th pick to the Los Angeles Lakers to play alongside his father. LeBron James, who had publicly expressed his desire to play alongside his son in the NBA, sat proudly in the audience. When James Jr.’s name was called, it marked a new chapter for the James family legacy.
A lot of critics think that James Jr.’s entry into the NBA only happened because of the name on the back of his jersey, but he is more than just a continuation of his father’s legacy. While comparisons to LeBron James will always exist, James Jr. has consistently told the press that he wants to make a name for himself, not anybody else. He may not have the same exemplary athleticism as his father, but his current skill set makes him a valuable asset to any team.
As James Jr. embarks on his NBA career, the sky’s the limit. While the weight of his father’s legacy will always be evident, James Jr. has proven that he has the talent and determination to shine on his terms.
The basketball world eagerly anticipates what the future holds for James Jr. Whether it’s hitting game-winning shots, leading a team to a championship or even creating his legacy off of the court, one thing is clear: James Jr.’s journey is just beginning, and it promises to be nothing short of legendary.
Contact the author at howlsports@mail.wou.edu
Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief
It has been reported that about 10 million American adults suffer from seasonal affective disorder — SAD — from mid to late fall through the spring season. Oregon, especially, is cold and wet during the cold season, with the sun setting early and the temperature staying chilly throughout the day, even at the peak of the sun.
Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression occurring during the colder months, the timing being the only difference between SAD and typical depression. It often returns annually for those who experience SAD. Explanations for why someone might experience SAD are still relatively unknown. The trigger, however, is a lack of light. The effects can be debilitating for some, and merely exhausting or tiring for others, meaning it varies from person to person.
Doctors make multiple recommendations for those who struggle with SAD. Studies state that proper sleep will elevate energy levels. If sleeping is a problem, doctors also recommend avoiding screens or other blue light before bed and creating a nighttime routine, something that promotes mindfulness and relaxation, ideally for a few hours leading up to sleep.
On the topic of mindfulness, many may benefit from meditation, yoga, pilates or other exercise or mindfulness practices to stabilize the mind and body. The easiest way to do this is to think of the moment — what is being done and how does it feel? Consider it “grounding.”
It is recommended to find everyday movement. To be clear, this does not necessarily mean exercise as in going to the gym or pushing yourself too hard, but finding time every day to walk, jog, step or play. Finding winter activities can assist, such as snowboarding, skiing, ice skating, sledding or even indoor activities, such as baking, cooking, reading, writing, crocheting and more. Creating things is good for the brain and brings feelings of pride and accomplishment.
And, although difficult, it is recommended to leave the house in one way or another, even when it’s freezing outside. Fresh air is good for the body and brain and leaving the house can stimulate, leading to better mental health.
Surrounding yourself with friends and family is a proven way to ward off the negative feelings accompanied by winter and is highly recommended. Being intentional with plans and self-care can help propel oneself into better health. Examples of self-care include forms of mindfulness as mentioned, cleaning, eating more healthily, exploring faith, self-reflection, practicing gratitude and more.
Artificial light is an alternative as well. Individuals may use sun lamps to replicate the light of the sun and using such light first thing in the morning has been proven to have positive effects. Studies also recommend taking media breaks, such as distancing from apps and social media. News, especially, can negatively affect mental health and during such critical months, access should be limited.
Having a clean, clutter-free environment may elevate moods, although the process is technically a chore. Doing the laundry, dishes and vacuuming can create comfort and remove at least a few tasks off the stressful weekly list.
Other resources, such as therapy, are recommended and can be easy to locate. Psychologytoday.com offers therapists from the area, virtually and in-person, and can point interested folks toward the right information to get set up. It often displays insurance information and sign-up material needed.
Antidepressants can also be helpful for those who suffer majorly from SAD. Meeting with your doctor can get this process started.
There are vitamins that individuals can take to promote health and well-being, such as vitamin D supplements — easy to buy from most local stores.
Most of all, individuals should learn what they need to be healthy and prioritize their health. Western’s Student Health and Counseling Center offers resources, professionals to speak to and other help at https://wou.edu/health/. “Wellness is a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of achieving full potential. We view well-being as a multidimensional and holistic process. The seven wellness realms we focus on, include: social, emotional, physical, spiritual, financial, environmental and mental,” says the center.
The website also provides graphics with more advice for handling poor mental health and finding a work-life balance. It recommends volunteering, maintaining relationships and adopting daily rituals. Figuring out what stress responses there are can be incredibly helpful as well, as each method can be remedied in a different way. Those who isolate may benefit from energizing activities, while those who grow angry or emotional may need to find a quiet, relaxing activity to recover instead.
Starting small with stress can make an impact, eventually snowballing into better coping mechanisms and skills. One conversation at a time opens the door for help.
The weather will, eventually, warm; the sun will return. Nobody should suffer alone. Merely having conversations about mental health can help destigmatize the concept of “winter blues” so that others can receive help as well, and feel less isolated in the process.
Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu
Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor
A new neuroscience minor is being offered for students at Western, with the college joining universities such as Portland State University and Linfield University which both have impressive neuroscience programs available.
A meeting of Western’s board of trustees was held Aug. 9, 2024, where the request for a neuroscience minor was discussed. According to the meeting docket, “The study of neuroscience provides students the opportunity to apply interdisciplinary knowledge in order to have a better understanding of the behavior of both human and non-human animals.”
The learning objectives are to, firstly, “understand the fundamental disciplinary content and concepts in neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuropsychology,” secondly, “Connect the structure and function of the nervous system to topics such as human behavior, non-human animal behavior, neuropharmacology, sensory and perception processes and neurological disorders” and, thirdly, “apply the appropriate experimental and analytical methods to current issues in neuroscience.”
The program would require students to take 25–28 credits in select biology and psychology courses. Depending on their major, students will be required to take two foundational courses in either biology or psychology. If students who are not biology or psychology majors choose to minor in neuroscience, they may have to take all four foundational courses since they are prerequisites for many required classes. Students will also choose eight credits worth of core electives and 9–12 credits of additional electives.
The neuroscience minor is hoped to be advantageous for Western and its students by appealing to more potential students who are interested in the program and by giving existing students more variety to their academic experience. There is a growing field of mental health professionals, and studying neuroscience could help students who plan to make a career in mental health.
For biology majors who will possibly go into healthcare, the minor will “provide these students the opportunity to combine their elective courses into a coherent curricular structure that will further their understanding of human health and behavioral issues and could make them more competitive when applying to post-baccalaureate programs,” according to the meeting docket.
Psychology majors will also have the option of amalgamating their electives into a well-organized minor that could “help further (students’) understanding of the biological basis of their primary field of study.”
The board of trustees’ decision was unanimous, and in summer 2024 the minor was added to Western’s catalog and Degree Tracks.
Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu
Written by: Sadie Latimer | News Editor
Nov. 14, 2024, Democrat Janelle Bynum won the race for the representative for Oregon’s 5th congressional district. In the Democratic primary election, Bynum won against Jamie McLeod-Skinner and went on to defeat current Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, a Republican, in the general election. Bynum received approximately 47.5% of the vote and Chavez-DeRemer received approximately 45%.
Bynum will be making history as Oregon’s first Black representative. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Bynum said, “I am also proud to be the first — but not the last — Black Member of Congress from Oregon. In Congress, I will always stand up for Oregonians — no matter who you voted for in this election — and fight tirelessly every day to deliver for families all across our district.”
Before running for Congress, Bynum was elected as an Oregon state senator in 2016 and has held that position since.
“Today, we chart a new path forward for Oregon — one of hope, opportunity and change for the better,” said Bynum.
Chavez-DeRemer won the seat in the House of Representatives in the 2022 election and had been a representative for the time being before conceding to Bynum. 2022 was the first time in about 25 years that the 5th congressional district had been flipped to Republican.
In Oregon’s 6th congressional district, where Monmouth resides, Democrat Andrea Salinas was reelected as representative. She has been a member of Congress since 2023, having served in the Oregon House of Representatives from 2017–2022.
Democrat Val Hoyle was reelected to Congress for Oregon’s 4th congressional district. She ran and won against Republican Monique DeSpain. Before being elected to Congress for the first time in 2022, she was the commissioner of Oregon’s Bureau of Labor and Industries.
In the 3rd district, Democrat Maxine E. Dexter won against Republican Joanna Harbour. Along with working in the healthcare field as a pulmonologist, Dexter also was an Oregon state representative from 2020–2024.
Cliff Bentz, a Republican, was reelected to Congress for Oregon’s 2nd district. He was first elected to Congress in 2020. The 2nd congressional district has been led by Republicans since 1981.
In Oregon’s 1st congressional district, Democrat Suzanne Bonamici won against Republican Bob Todd. Bonamici has been serving in Congress since a special election in 2012. Before that, she was elected as an Oregon state senator in 2008 and reelected in 2010.
Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu
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