Mount Hood

Cocktail Corner

By: Rachael Jackson
Campus Life Editor

Bloody Marys are a brunch tradition. Though perhaps not as flashy as their sweeter counterpart, the mimosa, they remain symbolic of this late morning meal. Also going for them is their ability to squash the most debilitating of hangovers. Fight fire with fire, I always say.

Olivia, my eldest sister, loves a good Bloody Mary and as such has a quick and easy recipe. Not exactly my go-to drink because of the savory quality, there remains something enthusiastically social about the Bloody Mary that begs to be shared with close friends in large quantities.

Here is the basic recipe she goes by: Clamato (or V8), Demitri’s mix, Worcestershire sauce, and vodka.

Olivia prefers Clamato over V8 because it’s not as thick and provides a better flavor. Add Demitri’s mix (find it at the liquor store) to the Clamato, add in a few extra splashes of Worcestershire. Demitri’s has Worcestershire in it already, but add a couple extra splashes because it’s good for you (probably).

Just pour it all into a pitcher, eyeballing the ingredients and tasting the mix as you do. Add ice to the pitcher, your glass, or both.

If you’re having a brunch with friends then I suggest you all split the cost on a bottle of Kettle One vodka for your bloodies. It isn’t the economical choice, but choosey day drinkers choose Kettle One. Trust me on this.

Most importantly, unless you are some kind of animal, you will need to garnish your drink.

Some suggestions for garnishes include: bacon/salt rim, celery, bacon, jerky, shrimp, olives, pepperoncinis, pickled asparagus, pickled beets … the possibilities are boundless. We popped in fake bacon for my vegetarian roommate, even. Set up a garnish bar and have your friends ride their very own trains into flavor station.

Send your Bloody Mary recipes and pictures to the author at rjackson13@wou.edu or via Twitter @rachaelyjackson.

Celebrating Native Culture for 23 years

By: Amanda Clarke 
Staff Writer

Western Oregon University celebrated its 23rd annual “Multicultural Student Union Pow Wow” with the theme “We Live By The Beat of Our Drums.”

A pow wow is a Native American cultural celebration that is conducted through song, dance, and food as a means to bring community together. Represented at the event were those of the Siletz and Grand Ronde tribes.

The pow wow allows Western students and the community to learn about the Native American culture. By witnessing and partaking in activities, students and people within the community are given a chance to experience the culture in a different perspective that perhaps they haven’t had before.

Although the Multicultural Student Union has been holding the event for 23 years, there have been other club sponsored pow wows held in the past. In 1937, the Eastern Oregon Club, which was composed of students from east of the Cascade Mountains, held a powwow at Western as well.

The Multicultural Student Union Pow Wow is held in order to allow students to experience traditions of the Native American community, which includes different forms of dancing, such as traditional dancing, grass dancing, and other categories.

“In my opinion with serving the Multicultural Student Union, it is important for anyone in the local community and Western to be educated on the Native American culture,” said Samantha Valdez, a member of the MSU and one of the co-coordinators for the pow wow.

The event hosts dancers, vendors who sell traditional Native American supplies, and drums. Every year, the event is open to everyone and includes a competition for people of all ages.

Raffle tickets were given out and amongst the prizes were paintings, a Pendleton blanket, and jewelry.

Contact the author at aclarke14@wou.edu.

Score one for queens

By:  Rachael Jackson 
Campus Life Editor

Triangle Alliance celebrated the 20th annual drag show with “Pirates of the Queeribbean,” an exploration of pirates dealing with issues like gender identity and polyamory, entirely set to high energy songs, endless jokes, and flashy dance moves.

If you have any friends that performed in the drag show this year, it is not likely you saw much of them the past few months. I have often found myself bemoaning the show for taking away the precious free time of one particular friend.

After seeing the show, however, it feels petty to dwell on the time lost with friends because what I gained from it was infinitely better; I was given a chance to see the product of months of practice from close friends, classmates, and coworkers. And it was amazing.

One performer, hailing from Oregon State University, said that getting the chance to do drag with a large group of people changes the experience of drag show. With the large group, you get to know each other more intimately and count on one another for the success of the show.

Joleen Braasch, senior literature major, who portrayed lead character Jacklynn Knoff, explained that her favorite song to perform was “Cannibal” by Ke$ha, saying, “It is really fun to just let go and become this amazing strong woman who is just like … don’t mess with me!”

Many audience members were fond of Braasch’s animalistic dance moves during “Cannibal.” Another crowd favorite was a mermaid scene set to one of Ellie Goulding’s darker songs.

After the show, the reception hall was buzzing with congratulations and compliments. I asked one student, Shelby Worthing, junior economics and business double major, what she liked most about the show. Beyond just being amongst friends and like-minded individuals, she felt the atmosphere it created to be the most salient part of the experience.

“I think a lot of students come here to have that inclusive atmosphere. It shows what Western students are because we welcome students from other universities as well,” Worthing said.

Jade Rayner, an undeclared sophomore, knew she was going to try out for the show after last year’s show.

“I saw it last year and it was amazing, so that made me want to audition for it,” Rayner said. “It was a lot of fun, but it was a lot of hard work.”

Contact the author at rjackson13@wou.edu or on Twitter @rachaelyjackson

Cocktail Corner

By: Ben Bergerson
Designer

If you’re like me, then even as you were shocked by the 80 degree temperatures last week (it’s only April!), you were trying to make the most of the sun while it was here by catching some rays. And what is better after an afternoon of sunbathing than getting cocktails with friends?

And so, I grabbed a couple friends and trudged over to Main Street Pub and Eatery to try their new spring drink menu.

Rachael Jackson, Campus Life Editor and senior social science major, ordered the Blood Orange Basil Spritzer. This drink will call out to the gin lovers out there, but with it’s sparkling and subtle summery vibe it is a good choice for all palates. The basil, though not lost in the drink, does not stand out either, making for easier consumption.

I also got to taste the Hippie Juice thanks to Mariah Williams, a senior interdisciplinary studies major. The drink was a bit stronger, with a heavy combination of flavors that get lost in the mix. It’s made by mixing watermelon vodka, coconut rum, orange liqueur, and pink lemonade into a tall glass filled with ice. The pub adds some fresh lemons and strawberries too, for an extra fruity kick.

If you’re really looking for refreshment, do yourself a favor and order the Cucumber Collins. As simple as this drink is, it will satisfy your taste buds while cooling you down after a day in the sun. It’s a mix of house infused cucumber vodka, sour mix, Sprite, and lemon. Add a cucumber and lemon garnish and what you’ve got is the ideal spring drink.

Contact the author at bebergerson13@wou.edu or on Twitter @ben_bergerson

Humans of Western

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By: Joleen Braasch
Staff Writer

Shannon Haas, senior computer science major, is graduating this spring. She shared her feelings about graduation and life after college, and the people who have been there along the way.

“Graduation will be like an orgasm. School has been riding me so hard these past four years, and when June 11 comes it’s going to be the most ultimate climax and release of my life so far. There are things I’ll miss after I leave: the occasional Fat Friday where my awesome roomie and I eat junk and watch Netflix, working at The Cottage with the fantastic staff and students, and just being on this beautiful campus. But I will not miss the late night homework life, the stress of senior capstone projects, or the additional debt I accrued every new term. Western has helped me shape myself into a better adult and brought me many good memories and lifelong friendships, but I’m ready to get the fuck out of here. 60 days and counting!

The main goal I have after college is finding a place in southern Oregon that will allow me to live with my dog again. I pretty much work hard so my dog can have a good life. However, a more ‘adulty’ goal is striving to live a more balanced life. Right now my life is a lot of work and very little play—not very healthy. I want to go hiking with my dog more, be with my family more, and just enjoy life more. I keep reading this post getting shared around Facebook that says, ‘I’m tired of people romanticizing overexertion … too many people are burning out before they have a chance to truly shine.’ When I read it, all I could think was, ‘YES!’ I don’t want to burn out, but I’m almost there. Post-graduation, I’m going to fix that.

I look up to many people in my life for varying reasons; like my dad for his strength to stay sober and how he’s genuinely a good person that cares, and my roommate for her confidence and adventurous personality. However, I would say I have looked up to my mom the most in my life. She is such a beautiful and strong woman that keeps fighting, even when life is at its shittiest. She taught me to rely solely on myself, and it caused me to become the independent person I am today. Every day I bust my ass at school and work, just like my momma taught me, so I can hopefully have a job that will allow me to relieve some of her financial burden, because she truly deserves it. I can only hope to be even just half as awesome as her! I love you, mom!”

New Club Comes to Campus

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By: Zoe Strickland
Northwest Passage Editor-in-Chief

Interested in photography? Western has a new club for you, and you don’t even have to leave your bed to go to the meetings.

After noticing the lack of a photography club on campus, Jim Bragdon, senior graphic design major, decided that it was time to start one. Formed last term, Photography Club is still looking for new members who want to share and talk about their photography.

The meetings are held online through the forums and gallery section of OrgSync. Though one day they may include in person meetings, the current online format is deliberate. The club has found that meeting online makes it easier for non-traditional students and commuters to interact with each other and be involved in the Western community.

For Bragdon, creating the club has a sense of sentimentality.

“Photography is my life and my passion, has been since I was young,” said Bragdon. “Recently I fell in love with teaching also, so through the club I can pursue both and help others to get better along the way.”

He hopes that having a club focused on photography will help students incorporate art into their lives.

“[I want to] showcase the talents of the students in this university, to nurture interest in photography and create great work that communicates and inspires.”

Club goers participate in online critiques and discussions of photography, as well as hold photography contests.

If you are interested in joining Photography Club, you can do so by searching the “Organizations” tab on OrgSync, or by contacting the club adviser Dan Tankersley at tankersley@mail.wou.edu.

Contact the author at zstrickland14@wou.edu or on Twitter @nwpmagazine

Dear Esmeralda

Screen Shot 2016-04-10 at 8.46.54 PMDear Esmeralda,

Alright, here is the issue: I really like this girl and I’ve been working very closely with her on a production. We also have been together in numbers and I’ve had close interactions with her. Like really close we’d hold hands and blow kisses and stuff … I don’t know if it was just the character she was in or what. Also when I freaked out before a performance she came over and gave me a huge pep talk and it helped so much! It made my heart leap out of my chest.

My problem is I am too nervous to even talk to her about my feelings. Also I’m super flamboyant … Idk if she’s ok with that … She is flawless in every way and gah! I don’t even know what to do! What should I do???

Crushed by a Crush

 

Dear Crushed by a Crush,

Goodness, if this isn’t the most adorable thing I’ve read! You seem to really fancy this chick! Not gonna question what production it is but sounds like fun! It may just be the production and character she was portraying. The thing is, talking to her is the only thing that can really help you at this point. I know it’s hard but fear of the unknown mustn’t stop you!

Get a little confidence! Fear will eat away at you like a cannibal! Just try and tell her “Hey mama, you got me burning up!” Wait that’s a little silly … But you get the point! Just be yourself! Tell your worries hush hush, because you will survive! It may seem like girls run the world but you just have to let it rock! I know it may not seem like much coming from a stranger but we don’t have any bad blood. Just keep hanging on till the world ends, eventually you’ll find the beauty to your beat! Just get cha head in the game and don’t let the dark side of your thoughts scare you away from happiness! Don’t let any chains hold you back, you are a boss! Maybe she’ll think, “Where have you been all my life?” You’ll never know what can be done once you tame the cyclone of nerves. Spread your wings and fly! You got this!

Best of luck!

Esmeralda

Contact Ezi on Twitter @miss_ezi or journaleditor@wou.edu with your questions on love and life!

Cocktail Corner

By: Joleen Braasch
Staff Writer

It was a nice, sunny day with a breeze when I walked over to Rookies Sports Pub and asked for a spring-inspired drink. Emily, the bartender and recent criminal justice graduate of Western, mixed me up a mango lemon drop: mango rum, triple sec (orange-flavored liqueur made from the dried peels of bitter and sweet oranges), lemonade, and lemon juice.

Rachael Jackson, campus life editor, also asked for a spring drink and, after some debate, ended up with a liquid cocaine: triple sec, amaretto (almond-flavored liqueur), Southern Comfort, vodka, and pineapple juice.

We took our drinks outside to a side patio with tables set out for the nice weather. A decorative wine barrel and the neighbor’s backyard fence kept us company. It was a quiet and pleasant atmosphere, absent of other students and perfect for chatting. We could hear the cars zooming by off the highway, but they were merely white noise in the background of our conversation that consisted mainly with love and liquor as the topics.

My lemon drop was shaken and served straight with lemon wedges and a sugared rim, in a thick martini glass without the stem. I couldn’t really taste the alcohol, which would disappoint me on a night out, but was refreshing as an afternoon cocktail. The mango rum was present, but not overpowering. Jackson thought that my drink was sweeter and more syrupy than hers. I agreed and squeezed in the juice from my lemon wedges for some added zest.

The liquid cocaine was served shaken and over ice in a pint glass, with a pink toothpick umbrella and a straw. It had a sweet, warm, nutty flavor, and Jackson said she could really taste the pineapple juice, but would have enjoyed more of an alcohol flavor.

Overall, both drinks were light and sweet, perfect for an afternoon in the sun (though they could have used a tad more liquor). But, between the two, the mango lemon drop won over my taste buds. I would most definitely mix up a boozier batch of this nectar for a daytime patio-party with friends.

Dear Esmeralda

EsmeraldaColor

Dear Ezi,
I had a threesome recently with the guy I’m seeing and my best friend. He clearly is attracted to her and would like to see her in a sexual context more often. My friend is not interested and there is nothing going on between them, but I still feel a bit betrayed (and extremely jealous) by his desires. I really like him but can’t seem to move past this.
Give me some advice, please!!

Signed,
Jealous on Knox St.

 

Dear Jealous on Knox St.,
I’m liking the nickname you gave me! It fits nicely, however not as nice as the problem you gave me! Lord almighty! Well, if you read my last few advice columns you know that I am not opposed to three ways (also, congrats on the three way, queen!) Feelings are as fickle a mistress as my ex-girlfriend! Communication is key to maki
ng this work. If she doesn’t reciprocate his feelings I would not stress too much about anything physical happening, so at least you got that going for you.
As for the betrayal you are feeling … Men use both their heads to think, as I’m sure you know. Sometimes when someone is looking as fine as cherry wine they stop thinking with their top head. Now, I am NOT saying that all men do this, as there are a wide variety of sexual arousal levels for all genders. What I’m trying to say is in the heat of the moment he may not be thinking right however, if he continues to express desires for your bestie, tell him that you don’t feel comfortable with him talking like this and if he pursues the topic more call him on his s–t. If it gets bad after you’ve talked to him he may not be the one for you. Find you a man who will listen and not want to kiki (for you laymen, that means to have sexual intercourse) with your best friend. There is someone out there for everyone … enjoy your time in college and be safe! Keep slaying them, queen!
Get at me if you need to talk more!

Miss Ezi

Humans of Western

 

By: Rachael Jackson
Campus Life Editor

Belladina Starr, senior theater BFA major, recently celebrated an engagement to boyfriend, Eric Kearns, after eight years together. Here are her thoughts on long-term relationships, marriage, and college life.

On balanHOWColorcing the relationship with school:

“The most difficult thing we deal with is finding time to hang out. I take 16-20 credits every term, work, do theater, and I’m involved with Alpha Chi Omega on campus so I keep myself really busy. Most of my spare time is devoted to homework and then weekends I try to do the college social life. I feel bad, sometimes I get so distracted by school I don’t give him the attention he deserves, but he is super patient and wonderful and understands. I wouldn’t say I have missed out on anything being in a relationship. If I wanted to date around and do that whole thing I would, but the fact is I am happy and in love and why would I ever give that up to struggle to find the same thing somewhere else.”

On being ready for marriage:

“I did not expect to be engaged in college when I was younger. If you had asked me a year ago I would have laughed. But honestly I was so ready for this to happen. Eight years is a long time, and I’m graduating soon. My life is in a place of transition right now, and I don’t see myself with anyone else so why not?”

The engagement story and plans after graduation:

“It was really sweet the way he asked me. He told me he wanted it to reflect who I was, and family and friends mean the most to me. We showed up to my uncle’s house to ‘grab something’ for our date and walked into 20 to 30 of my closest friends and family. When I turned around Eric was on his knee. We celebrated with everyone and that night we left to go to the beach where he had got a big hotel room. It was absolutely perfect. Next year Eric and I are moving to Salem with friends to save up some money and then we plan on moving up to Portland so I can pursue theater. I don’t know what I’m looking forward to most, I guess I’m just excited to see what the future holds!”