Visiting Portland music instructors teach and perform in Smith Hall
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
As part of the music department’s ongoing guest artist series, Western voice professor Claire Hudkins and visiting music educators Sarah Maines, Joannah Ball and Susan McDaniel will be hosting two workshops and a final performance in Smith Recital Hall.
The first workshop is Feb. 10 in the Columbia Room of the Werner University Center and will be led by Joannah Ball, Willamette University artist associate and voice instructor at Pacific University and Reed College. This session is geared towards utilizing the piano knowledge all Western music majors must attain in order to apply it to the classroom.
The second workshop, happening on Feb. 11 in Smith Hall, will focus on vocal health for classroom or studio teachers. This session will be led by University of Portland and Reed College adjunct professor Sarah Maines.
While these events cater mostly to music majors hoping to go into teaching, the final concert is open for anyone to enjoy. Maines, Ball and Hudkins will sing a variety of songs from different genres — from classical to musical theatre to contemporary bluegrass — accompanied by University of Portland music lecturer Susan McDaniel on piano.
According to Hudkins, every song being performed will focus on the theme of the concert, “Belonging,” inspired by the quote from American researcher, Brené Brown: “True belonging doesn’t require us to change who we are. It requires us to be who we are.”
This idea, proposed by Maines, is meant to promote inclusion and self-acceptance.
“Sarah came up with the idea of loosely having this (theme) of belonging, and how each piece of music that we’re doing, how that sort of fits in, whether it be around women’s rights or race relations or anything,” Hudkins said.
The concert will be on Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. in Smith Recital Hall. Western students can attend for free, while general tickets will be $10.
Contact the author at howlentertainment@mail.wou.edu
Will Arnett keeps viewers guessing and laughing through “Murderville”
Mollie Herron | News Editor
Netflix’s “Murderville” is a new comedy series that shows what would happen if we were put in our favorite murder mystery show and how ridiculous we would look trying to solve them.
Will Arnett is hilarious as Detective Terry Seattle, who is joined every episode by a new celebrity guest. The catch is the guest is not given a script and must investigate without any prior knowledge. Arnett is joined by guest stars such as Ken Jeong, Marshawn Lynch and Annie Murphy.
Arnett’s character Terry Seattle is an unhinged detective who urges his guest stars to make unarguably terrible decisions which only encourages them to break. The best moments are when the guest star also plays into the absurdity of the show and Arnett breaks character himself. That leaves the audience watching two comedians play with the nipples of a corpse or arguing over whether or not pancakes need to be boiled.
In almost every episode there is a scene that truly tests the guest star’s acting skills. They are given an ear piece and sent into a ridiculous situation with Detective Seattle whispering absolute nonsense into their ear. This often leads to more breaks in character that will leave viewers clutching their stomach.
The setup for each murder mystery is very obvious and makes it clear what the guest should be looking for. This allows the audience to figure it out alongside them. Personally, I only guessed three of them right because I spent much more time laughing than trying to figure out who the killer was ⏤ that is probably exactly happens with most of the guest stars.
If viewers aren’t interested in comedy detective shows but still want to check it out, I highly suggest watching episode three with guest Kumail Nanjiani. The pair goes to Detective Seattle’s high school reunion where we get to see a bit of his backstory and why he acts like the absolute fool that he is. I made the bad decision of watching this whole series in public and had to hold back many laughs and tears while watching Nanjiani attempt to keep it together on set. 9/10.
Avoid the Valentine’s cliches with these underrated movies
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Valentine’s Day activities can sometimes be overly cliche, and no tradition encapsulates this more than the annual viewing of “The Notebook.” If this inevitability doesn’t sound appealing, here is a list of less cliche movies to enjoy on the day of love.
“The Princess Bride” (1987) — After being separated for many years, a man must battle assassins, mythical villains and death itself to save his one true love from a king who intends to marry her.
“Pride and Prejudice” (2005) — Stubborn Elizabeth Bennet and arrogant Mr. Darcy must overcome their personal biases in order to fall in love and marry in 19th century England.
“Love, Simon” (2018) — This romantic comedy follows 17-year-old Simon, who has yet to come out as gay to his friends and family. When he falls for an anonymous gay classmate online, his situation only becomes more complicated.
“Deadpool” (2016) — After undergoing torturous experiments that left him with healing powers but a disfigured apperance, mercenary Wade Wilson goes on a rampage to kill the man who destoyed his life, and maybe win back his girlfriend in the process.
“The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society” (2018) — After World War II, a London-based writer begins correspondence with residents from the island of Guernsey, which was German-occupied during the war. Through the letters, she begins to understand what living under tyranny was like.
“Casablanca” (1942) — An American business owner in Casablanca, Morocco must choose whether or not to aid his former flame and her husband in fleeing Nazi persecution.
Contact the author at howlentertainment@mail.wou.edu
Band rehearsals have moved back inside, just in time for colder fall weather
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Those who frequented campus the first two weeks of fall term may have heard the sound of music flowing from outside Smith Hall. This is where Western’s instrumental ensembles practiced to comply with COVID-19 safety guidelines. However, bands like the jazz orchestra have recently found themselves back inside for practice sessions, since they received specialized equipment that greatly limits the spread of respiratory droplets while playing.
“This includes custom masks designed to be worn while playing a wind instrument, as well as bell covers that reduce the spread of aerosols while playing an instrument,” said jazz orchestra director Dr. Keith Karns. “This PPE is part of the COVID mitigation plan adopted by virtually all music programs in public schools, colleges, and universities in the Pacific Northwest.”
These COVID safety protocols have also allowed the ensembles to schedule performances again, something they were unable to do last year.
“One of them is going to be a side-by-side concert with … McKay High School. So we’ll just be over there, showing the high schoolers what we can do … and they can play with us and they get on the stage with us,” said sophomore general music major Jacob McDonald, who plays trumpet for the jazz orchestra.
Ensembles are no longer required to practice outside Smith Hall.
McDonald is also a member of the wind ensemble, who will be joining the jazz orchestra for an end of term concert featuring famous jazz clarinetist Eddie Daniels, scheduled for Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m.
The two groups are performing a wide variety of music this term; the jazz orchestra lineup includes several pieces by renowned jazz pianist Count Basie, “I Left my Heart in San Francisco” by Tony Bennett and “Strasbourg / St. Denis” by jazz trumpeter Roy Hargrove, and the wind ensemble will perform arrangements such as an homage to silent films and a march composed by John Phillip Sousa.
“I am very, very excited for concerts and to be playing again … (it’s) doing what I like to do, right? And so, yeah, very excited,” said McDonald.
Art exhibits open for viewing this October at Western
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Western’s galleries are open again after an 18 month hiatus, and pieces in galleries such as the Student Gallery in the ITC, the Cannon Gallery of Art and the second floor gallery in Hamersly Library are open for public viewing during normal building hours, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. until Oct. 29.
The Annual Juried Student Art and Design Exhibition returns in its 53rd iteration to the newly remodeled ITC, featuring the talented students who entered in last year’s online exhibit.
Senior nontraditional transfer student Melody Barrett has two collage pieces in the student gallery, “Frida Rides Again” and “Ladies in Waiting.” A dedicated artist, Barrett has also sold a print of her piece “Ladies in Waiting” to the City of Monmouth Arts Committee.
“I believe art is an expression of the artist, what we see and feel, experience and imagine,” Barrett said. “That is why I love using a wide range of mediums including collage, acrylic painting, soft pastels and mixed media, because each one allows my thoughts, feelings and ideas to come through in very different ways.” To see her other work, check out Barrett’s website at www.melodybarrett.com.
Graduate student Genvieve Hardin has two pieces in the gallery, sculptures “D20” and “Be Not Afraid.” Hardin is in the Master of the Arts in Teaching program, and has expressed her excitement for having her work in the ITC gallery.
“My art is a way to connect with others and express myself. It is wonderful to have my art on display; I always wonder what people see and feel when they view my work!” Hardin said.
Senior zoology and art and design double major Tobin Roark has three pieces on display.
“’Liquescent Shift’ was a tribute to my gramma opening up and freeing herself from the grief of her husband passing,” Roark said of their art. “’Burning at the Stake’ was commentary on the demonizing of sexuality and women linking burning witches at the (stake) with pole dancers. And lastly ‘Touch of Menace’ … was commentary on how appearances can be deceiving and corruption and greed.”
Senior art major McKenna Suarez displayed her digital pieces “Photoshop Series” in the exhibit. Her art was the only digital entry.
“These pieces to me mean a lot, as they help to represent or show what Social Anxiety is like to me, and the ‘tricks’ I use to help me talk to people or interact in public,” Suarez said. “Similar to the phrase ‘Just think of them in their underwear!’ when you ask someone for tips on public speaking. I just imagine everyone with a bird head with a cool aesthetic background.”
Senior art major David Tomasiewicz has one piece displayed in the gallery, “MotoDrop #3.” Different from the peers he shares the gallery with, Tomasiewicz’s preferred medium is animation or film.
“I see art as a tool and means to create the animated fantasies that exist in my collective dreamscape,” Tomasiewicz said, “a way to invite people to peer into the landscapes existing within my conscious.”
Also included in the exhibit are students Marilyn Bergsma, with “If Wishes Were Horses Beggars Would Ride” and Mitchel Garson, with “Image of Guitar,” “Insomnia,” “Why,” “Untitled” and “Unfortunate Futures.”
Venturing outside of the student exhibits, Eric Tautkus, an aerosol and graffiti artist, has unveiled his newest art installation, “Derailed Marginally” in the Cannon Gallery of Art in Campbell Hall. This new work is a colorful, immersive piece spanning an impressive 50 feet — split between two walls. Smaller paintings by Tautkus are on display as well. When the exhibit closes on Oct. 29, two-foot square sections of Tautkus’ work will be sold to help fund the student gallery in the ITC.
Additionally, in the second floor gallery of Hamersly Library, local artist Diane Elizabeth Wilson debuted her exhibit titled “On Bended Knee, We Honor Thee,” in reference to the symbolic act of kneeling in protest for civil rights. The exhibit features 60 oil painted portraits of civil rights leaders and activists that have made an impact on society.
Western’s jazz orchestra members answer, “How does it feel to be practicing inside again?”
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Noah Adams, senior audio production major, drumset
“I would say it’s very nice … it makes it a lot nicer, a lot more inviting for me to be here for a while if I’m practicing.”
Nathan Richardson, junior jazz studies major, saxophone
“It’s been great. I actually wasn’t here last year; at the school I was at before it was completely online so we didn’t play together at all, so just being able to play in general with other people has been amazing.”
William Murphree, first-year music education major, saxophone
“I think it feels great personally because there are a lot of challenges that come with playing outside … especially when it’s colder, things like intonation, it’s harder to hear other people in the ensemble, it’s harder to blend with people and hear, like, the different intricacies of the pieces that you’re playing, and also it’s just like cold out, so your hands get cold.”
Essence Githens, sophomore music education major, trombone
“It’s a lot better. Playing outside has its benefits, like being louder and like building up your lungs honestly. But playing inside, I think you really just connect more with the music and it’s easier to hear who’s playing, who’s playing what and blending a lot more. So, I enjoy it.”
Sorin Santos, first-year music education major, trombone
“It’s very exciting, it changes the way how, like, the ensemble feels because outside it feels like you’re playing out into nothing, almost. But when you’re inside you can hear everybody better and you feel more a part of an ensemble when you’re playing inside and together.”
Lucas Devon, junior music education major, trumpet
“It feels really nice … I don’t know, like playing outside is fine, but when it gets super cold it’s just like you can really feel it and it just makes everything so miserable, so being inside is super great.”
Smith Fine Arts Series returns to Rice Auditorium with COVID-19 safety precautions
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Smith Fine Arts Series is entering its 44th season this October, and it’s making a triumphant return to in person performances after switching to an online format in March 2020.
Lisa Schachter, director of the Smith Fine Arts Series, is in charge of operations and fundraising, and has been working hard to get performances running again. Among her other duties, Schachter was also involved with implementing Smith Fine Arts Series’ COVID-19 safety guidelines.
“Once we got clearance that we were going to actually be able to start doing things in the performing arts hall, but with a lot of limitations, that’s when we knew we could move forward with the artists and (get) in touch with them,” Schachter said. “The musicians and artists are all very anxious to get back on stage, we just wanted to make sure we did it safely.”
Schachter asserted that Smith Fine Arts Series will strictly follow Western’s COVID guidelines, including: requiring vaccine cards upon entry to Rice Auditorium; declining to serve food or drinks before, during or after performances so that masks can be worn at all times; cancelling intermissions during shows to reduce crowding in the lobby; and closing seating within the first three rows of the auditorium to allow social distancing between artists and the audience.
Andi Moring, a senior math and theatre double major at Western, has worked as the program assistant for 18 months. Hired right before the pandemic began, she had never worked on ⏤ nor seen ⏤ an in person performance from Smith Fine Arts Series.
“I’m taking ticket orders now, which I’d never done prior to this,” Moring said. “It’s so much more exciting to be like ‘Yes, I’ll take your ticket orders for these shows that we will have.’”
Though Moring has little experience dealing with an in person Smith Fine Arts production, she remains optimistic.
“I’m a little nervous, but I’m really excited to see a show and interact with people, that’s one of my favorite things in life,” said Moring.
Smith Fine Arts Series performance lineup for its 44th season
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Smith Fine Arts Series is known as a haven for the arts, and its top quality productions are returning to present a variety of diverse performances for all ages.
Halie Loren(Friday, Oct. 8) — A multilingual singer-songwriter with eight albums to her name, Loren has received international critical acclaim for her jazz musical stylings.
Vianna Bergeron Brazilian Jazz (Saturday, Dec. 4) — Known for performing a diverse mix of Brazilian music genres, this band features vocalist Rosi Bergeron, saxophonist Tom Bergeron, pianist Cassio Vianna, bassist Wagner Trindade and drummer Cam Siegal.
Rainbow Dance Theatre(Friday, Jan. 14) — This Oregon-based dance company will perform their “20 in 2020” repertory show, choreographed for their 20 year anniversary tour, which was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Seamus Egan Project (Saturday, March 12) — Specializing in Irish folk music, Egan has redefined the genre through his mastery of Irish flute, guitar, mandolin, tenor banjo and other instruments. He will be joined by Scottish fiddler Jenna Moynihan, guitarist Kyle Sanna and guitarist, banjoist, mandolinist Owen Marshall.
Thalea String Quartet(Saturday, April 2) — This group of internationally renowned musicians brings timeless music to all audiences, featuring violinist Christopher Whitley, violinist Kumiko Sakamoto, violaist Lauren Spaulding and cellist Titilayo Ayangade.
The Thornette David Band(Saturday, June 4) — A blues legend, Davis has been on the scene since 1987 and will be performing with her seven piece band.
All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Day of show ticket sales begin as early as 6 p.m. Advance ticket purchases are $28 for adults, day of show tickets are $33 and both options are $10 for non-Western students. Those with a valid Western student ID can get their tickets free of charge, just make sure to show up early to book a seat. Call the Smith Fine Arts Series’ office at 503-838-8333 with any questions.
A soundtrack for watching the leaves fall compiled by The Howl staff
The Western Howl Collective
The autumn season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate the leaves changing than with a new playlist to listen to throughout the season? “The Western Howl” staff has compiled some of their favorite fall songs they like to listen to. To check this playlist out and others we have created, find us on Spotify @TheWesternHowl.
“Sweater Weather” — The Neighborhood
“고엽” or “Autumn Leaves” / “Dead Leaves” — BTS
“TT” — TWICE
“Dearly Departed” — Marianas Trench
“Witchcraft” — Pendulum
“Wake Me Up When September Ends” — Green Day
“We Close Our Eyes” cover — Ninja Sex Party
“Heather” — Conan Gray
“we fell in love in october” — girl in red
“Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” — Cage The Elephant
“Zombie” — The Cranberries
“Candy” — The Presidents Of The United States Of America
“Heads Will Roll” — Yeah Yeah Yeahs
“Witch Love” — Nico Yaryan
“In A Week” — Hozier ft. Karen Cowley
“Pumpkin” — The Regrettes
“Pumpkins Scream In the Dead of the Night” — Savage Ga$p and 93FEETOFSMOKE ft. shinigami
Students come together to share their talent in this traditional New Student Week event
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
From left to right: Jasper Beck, Jared Foos, Andrew Freeman, Daizy Hernandez Soriano, Jessica Bailey, Aubrey Mollock.
The end of New Student Week was marked by the return of a Western tradition — the Variety Show. Organized by the PLUS team’s Variety Show committee, the event consisted of 10 student acts, three prize giveaways and a New Student Week video shot and edited by Western alumnus and freelance videographer Andy McDonald.
Moshe Martinez, junior computer science major, PLUS team member and overseer of the Variety Show committee, acted as MC of the event. Spaced throughout the show, the PLUS team held short raffles for prizes, and a select few students won items ranging from a Hydro Flask to a smart TV.
The performances began with junior ASL Studies major Jared Foos, who sang and played guitar to his own arrangement of “Gone, Gone/Thank You” by Tyler, the Creator and “Relax/Divide” by Hail The Sun.
First-years Ashlee Ellis, Sorin Santos and Breanna Carrasco Vivar performed an energetic light dance routine to the song “LALISA” by Lisa.
Senior criminal justice and psychology double major Andrew Freeman, who is vice president and vocal percussionist of Western’s Acapella Club, performed an original beatbox story, taking the audience through a day in the life of a beatboxer. Freeman was joined by the rest of the Acapella Club for a musical finale.
On the piano, first-year music education major Kourtney Branchfield performed an original song titled “Perfectionist,” something she identifies with.
“I want to kind of help people understand what (perfectionist) means,” Branchfield said of her song’s message, “or people who are also dealing with it can also relate to it.”
First-year business major Daizy Hernandez Soriano sang “Que Me Vas a Dar” by Jenni Rivera, the only act performed in another language.
Graduate student Liam Vance performed “Take Out Some Insurance” by Jimmy Reed. As Vance left the stage, he declared, “My Name is Liam Vance and I am just getting started.”
Channeling a Bo Burnham-style musical comedy, senior art and design major Jessica Bailey performed an original song on guitar titled “WIP” about wanting to find their place and figure out life.
“One of the things that I was working on was trying to be more honest with myself…” Bailey said, “even if things are kind of embarrassing and weird to say out loud, trying to say it anyways because it’s actually quite helpful.”
First-year Jasper Beck performed his slam poetry piece titled “2nd Law” accompanied by an original backtrack and slideshow.
“I essentially used the second law of thermodynamics as a metaphor for the fact that societies and relationships tend to fall apart, just like matter does…” Beck said of the inspiration behind the poem, “and sort of my thoughts on how that affects people and how our reaction to that brokenness is not healthy, in my opinion.”
First-year psychology major Aubrey Mollock sang an emotional rendition of “Burn” from the musical “Hamilton,” a song performed by wife Eliza after Hamilton released documents to the public revealing his affair.
First-year Manda Oliver played an original piece titled “Stepping into a Mirror.” According to Oliver, the song was initially about escaping reality, but over time came to be synonymous with creating her perfect reality instead.
At the end of the live performances, Martinez was joined onstage by the rest of the PLUS team for a choreographed dance to Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson’s hit song “Uptown Funk.”
The critically acclaimed media coming to Netflix, Disney+ and Hulu this October
Camille Lenning | Entertainment Editor
Classes are back in session, which can mean more stress for students. For those who need a break from homework, here’s a sneak peek into some of the critically acclaimed movies and television shows coming to streaming services this October.
Coming to Netflix:
“Seinfeld” (1989) ⏤ Oct. 1. All nine seasons of the famous sitcom featuring Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander and Michael Richards. Rotten Tomatoes score: 89%.
“Till Death” (2021) ⏤ Oct. 1. A romantic lake house vacation turns deadly when Emma’s husband enacts a revenge plot against her. Rotten Tomatoes score: 88%.
“On My Block” (2018) ⏤ Oct. 4. Two years after Monse’s departure from Freeridge, the group is back together, and this final season will explore their changed dynamic as they navigate new threats in the neighborhood. Rotten Tomatoes score: 95%.
“YOU” (2018) ⏤ Oct. 15. In season three, Joe and Love are raising their newborn son in a Californian suburb. But when Joe’s attention shifts to their next door neighbor, Love must take drastic measures to protect her perfect family. Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%.
Coming to Disney+:
“Black Widow” (2021) ⏤ Oct. 6. Natasha Romanoff must confront her dark past as an assassin — and the people she left behind — when a new foe arises. Rotten Tomatoes score: 79%.
“Marvel’s What If…?” (2021) ⏤ Oct. 6. Marvel’s newest addition to their growing media arsenal comes to a close in the finale episode. Rotten Tomatoes score: 93%.
Coming to Hulu:
“Crimson Tide” (1995) ⏤ Oct. 1. Set after the Cold War, a rookie lieutenant commander of the submarine USS Alabama stages a mutiny to prevent the captain from starting a nuclear war with Russian extremists. Rotten Tomatoes score: 88%.
“Escape from Alcatraz” (1979) ⏤ Oct. 1. Frank Morris, a criminal with a reputation for breaking out of prison, is sent to Alcatraz and crafts a plan to escape the inescapable. Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%.
“Goldfinger” (1964) ⏤ Oct. 1. When gold magnate Auric Goldfinger is suspected of concocting a scheme to rob Fort Knox and cripple the world economy, 007 must foil the plot. Rotten Tomatoes score: 99%.
“Grey’s Anatomy” (2005) ⏤ Oct. 1. The season 18 premiere will feature the doctors at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital treating patients after the COVID-19 pandemic, and introduce new obstacles as they try to employ doctors. Rotten Tomatoes score: 84%.
“Mad Max” (1979) ⏤ Oct. 1. In a world where oil shortages have led to famine, war and financial crisis, police officer Max goes rogue to avenge his murdered wife and son. Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%.
“The Hunger Games” (2012) ⏤ Oct. 1. Every year, the Capitol picks two children from each assigned district to join a bloodthirsty competition. When Katniss Everdeen volunteers to save her sister, her life is changed forever. Rotten Tomatoes score: 84%.
“Waitress” (2007) ⏤ Oct. 1. Waitress Jenna is married to an abusive husband and stuck in a small town, with plans to escape ⏤ but complications arise when she begins an affair with the town doctor. Rotten Tomatoes score: 89%.
With summer coming up, it’s important to have more than one way to spend the long days. Some people kill time by picking up new hobbies, or through experimenting with different types of arts and crafts. Rock painting is one activity that can be relaxing and turned into an artistic outlet, and it’s one craft that requires few materials.
One easy way to find materials is by collecting rocks on walks and checking to see if there’s any old paint laying around the house. Sharpies work in a pinch and can add more detail to painted pieces. If out of paint, consider using leftover nail polish or spray paint to decorate. With hundreds of possible designs ⏤ ranging from animals, flowers, bees, candy and bugs ⏤ there’s something for everyone.
There are tons of official rock painting groups spread out across Oregon, all with their own vibrant communities and unique designs. To get started in the rock painting world, try joining Facebook groups and looking for rock painting hashtags on other social media platforms, like Instagram and Twitter. It can even be an opportunity to share one’s own work and artistic skills, or it can just be a fun family activity. These rock painting pages and communities in Oregon can all be found on Facebook:
Local little libraries make a big impact on communities
Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor
Sunny days are best enjoyed with a lounge chair and a captivating book, but sometimes it feels impossible to find the “right” book to start reading. With local little libraries, it’s easy to explore new titles provided by the community. These libraries can be made by families, bought online or provided by organizations, and they offer a convenient and interactive way to get involved in the community by having others take or donate well-loved books. Here are just a few little libraries in the area, out of the many that are in Oregon:
Monmouth
MaMere’s Guest House ⏤ 212 Knox St. N. This little library is a replica of the historic house and is crafted entirely from LEGO’s. It’s complete with LEGO flowers, a miniature library and a black cat that roams the property.
Monmouth Montessori School ⏤ 1140 East Main St. This library is for anyone to enjoy, take a short walk to discover the big blue butterfly on the back of the library — with this cute design, it’s hard to miss.
Salem and Keizer
American Antique Hardware ⏤ 2983 D St. NE. This red and blue library is bigger than others since it’s in a larger neighborhood and a busier location. Supported by the surrounding seven homes in the area, they have all come together to offer books for all ages in English and Spanish.
Oneil Library ⏤ 7426 Oneil Road NE. This royal blue library was built in 2019 by Donovan Karnes for his Eagle Scout Project, with the help of Boy Scout Troop 7067.
Little Free Library ⏤ 5908 Legacy St. SE. Smaller and tucked away, these wooden navy blue walls hold a selection of children’s books and adult literature.
Eugene
Anthony and Jodie St. Clair’s ⏤ 1260 Beebe Lane. This blue and purple library was gifted to Anthony and Jodie St. Clair by Nancy Nathanson and the River Road Community Organization. Now, they pass on their love for reading by sharing their colorful library with the community.
Treetops Little Free Library ⏤ 3049 Deerbrush Way. Parked in the shade from the trees in Southwest Eugene, this library is made from rich, dark wood that will immediately catch the eye. Snag a book to add some excitement to the day.
Cole Family Library ⏤ 553 North Bertelsen Road. This is the second library made by the Cole family, and they’re back and better than ever. With the adorable addition of a flower doorknob, small flower beds and windows, anyone in the neighborhood can enjoy their labor of love.
Summer is all about taking a load off and relaxing with a playlist that sets the mood, which is why it’s so important to find the latest jams. New music is released constantly on multiple platforms, and it can be difficult to stay up to date with all of the latest up-and-coming artists. Ranging from old favorites like Aly & AJ, twenty one pilots and St. Vincent, there’s more than one artist to add to the summertime playlist. Between Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube, music lovers everywhere can enjoy these albums released in May.
May 6:
“Convocations” — Sufjan Stevens
May 7:
“Ashlyn” — Ashe
“a touch of the beat gets you up on your feet gets you out and then into the sun” — Aly & AJ
“Better Mistakes” — Bebe Rexha
“Blood Bunny” — Chloe Moriondo
“Here And Now” — Kenny Chesney
“Latest Record Project: Volume 1” — Van Morrison
“The Marfa Tapes” — Miranda Lambert, Jack Ingram, Jon Randall
“Tuck Me In EP” — boy pablo
“Van Weezer” — Weezer
May 14:
“Be Right Back” — Jorja Smith
“Daddy’s Home” — St. Vincent
“Delta Kream” — The Black Keys
“High Dive” — Shaed
“The Off-Season” — J. Cole
“parallel universe pt.1” — Alania Castillo
“Unbothered” — Lil Skies
“Why No Why” — Mob Rich
May 21:
“All I Know So Far: Setlist” — P!nk
“Amidst the Chaos: Live at the Hollywood Bowl” — Sara Bareilles
Find your next page-turner with one of these e-books
Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor
There’s nothing quite like sitting down with a captivating book and flipping through the pages, but there’s more than one way to enjoy a solid read. E-books, or electronic books, offer a convenient and simple way to discover new authors and novels. Plus, they typically have a “read-aloud” feature, which lets folks enjoy their book whenever and however they want. Kindle has countless bestsellers, all which range in genres and price points. With countless options readily available, there’s bound to be something for every avid reader out there.
“After Alice Fell: A Novel” by Kim Taylor Blakemore
“The Bad Seed” by Jory John
“Bridgerton: The Duke & I” by Julia Quinn
“Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” by Bill Martin Jr.
“A Deadly Influence” by Mike Omer
“The Four Winds: A Novel” by Kristin Hannah
“Hadley and Grace: A Novel” by Suzanne Redfearn
“If You Tell: A True Story of Murder, Family Secrets, and the Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood” by Gregg Olsen
“In an Instant” by Suzanne Redfearn
“Infinite” by Brian Freeman
“The Last Sister (Columbia River Book 1)” by Kedra Elliot
“The Light Through the Leaves: A Novel” by Glendy Vanderah
“The Midnight Library: A Novel” by Matt Haig
“The Moonlight Child” by Karen McQuestion
“The Next Wife” by Kiara Rouda
“Not One of Us” by Debbie Herbet
“The Other Emily” by Dean Koontz
“The Shadow Box” by Juanne Rice
“Temptation (The Hunted Series Book 1)” by Ivy Smoak
“The Vanishing Half: A Novel” by Brit Bennett
“Verity” by Colleen Hoover
“The Wedding Game” by Meghan Quinn
“West with Giraffes: A Novel” by Lynda Rutledge
“When We Believed in Mermaids: A Novel” by Barbara O’Neal
Apps can make life so much easier, and they can also be a great way to waste time in between assignments or Zoom meetings. These latest apps can provide much needed entertainment any time of day, and most have received high ratings and reviews. From all the different app stores available, these are just a few of the hottest games and apps out right now.
Games:
“Tetris” ⏤ The world’s famous block puzzle game, now with daily challenges and group matches.
“The Sims Mobile” ⏤ Create a unique online world with customizable characters, homes, friendships and lifestyles.
“8 Ball Pool” ⏤ With one vs. one matches or eight player tournaments, any fans of pool can enjoy playing this game.
“UNO!” ⏤ The popular card game has gone virtual, now with leaderboards and real time matches.
“Two Dots” ⏤ A puzzle game that propels two dots through an artistic world.
“Super Mario Run” ⏤ Control Mario’s running by tilting the phone, and help him navigate all the different worlds in the game.
“SpongeBob: Krusty Cook-Off” ⏤ Put those cooking skills to the test in this fast-paced cooking game.
“Tangle Master 3D” ⏤ Try to detangle the ropes by trying out all the possibilities.
“BitLife”⏤ In this creative life simulator, people can pick and choose exactly how their life goes, and see how everything pans out.
“Hello Neighbor” ⏤ A combination of a puzzle, adventure and horror game, players’ stealth and skills will be put to the test.
Outdoor:
“Footpath Route Planner” ⏤ Track a long walk or short run with this app and its customizable navigation.
“AllTrails: Hike, Bike, & Run” ⏤ Discover all the hiking, biking and running trails in any area.
“Topo Maps+”⏤ This app provides a reliable and portable map for any destination.
“Wavve Boating- Easy Marine GPS” ⏤ Stay safe in the water with this navigation app, or mark a few favorite boating spots.
“harbor: home safety made easy” ⏤ Emergency preparation and SOS responses.
Creativity:
“Auxy – Music & Beat Maker”⏤ A music maker with beats, loops, sounds and effects.
“Sway: Magic Dance”⏤ Motion effects and AI filters.
“Smule Social Karaoke Singing” ⏤ A karaoke app available with over ten million songs.
Media:
“Libby, by OverDrive”⏤ Library e-books and audiobooks.
“Tubi” ⏤ Stream movies, TV shows and other content.
Check out these outdoor and online events at Western
Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor
Now that the days are longer and the sunshine is here to stay, it’s time to look out for the latest events happening at Western. Whether it is from home, in person or over Zoom, there are quite a few clubs and organizations that are hosting engaging events for everyone to explore. Ranging from free art kits and activities, to a movie night and outdoor games, here are a few activities to kick off May:
String Art Kit ⏤ Presented by Student Engagement, pick up a kit in the Werner University Center or have it shipped. The kits include wood, a hammer, nails and string. There are five available designs, which include a sun, star, flower, pineapple or a tree. RSVP on Engage to pick it up between May 3 at 9 a.m. and May 7 at 5 p.m.
“Star Wars” Movie Night ⏤ Presented by the Student Activities Board, RSVP on Engage to catch this showing of “Star Wars” on May 4 at 9 p.m. at McArthur Stadium.
Summer Activities Week ⏤ Presented by the Heritage Programming and Activities Committee, they will be hosting a Tie-Dye Shirt activity between 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on May 5 outside of Heritage Hall. There will also be a movie night of “The Goonies” at 8:30 p.m. on May 7 at the Grove and over Zoom. Additional details can be found on Instagram @hpac.wou.
The Oregon Students of Color Conference ⏤ Presented by the Oregon Students of Color Coalition and the Oregon Student Association, this year’s theme is “Holding Hands, Holding Space.” A free conference with limited slots, register here for May 7 through 9.
Ceram-IT ⏤ Presented by the Residence Hall Association, get creative by painting ceramic objects ⏤ such as teeny dinosaurs, a pineapple or an elephant piggy bank ⏤ or get involved with socially distanced outdoor games supplied by Landerman’s Activity Committee on May 12 from 12 to 4 p.m. at the Grove.
#Adulting: Relationships! ⏤ Presented by Student Success & Advising, join this weekly Zoom meeting to explore a workshop-style series on “adulting” skills and tips that anyone can learn from. For spring term, it will run from weeks two through nine on Thursdays from 2 to 3 p.m. The Zoom link Meeting ID is 825 3799 5799.
The Northwest Passage ⏤ Submit art or written work to The Northwest Passage, Western’s own literary and fine-arts magazine. The deadline for the spring 2021 issue is May 14. Email submissions to northwestpassage@wou.edu.
Submit art to be displayed on campus ⏤ Presented by the Student Enrichment Program, they are creating a window installation for student artwork ⏤ which will be showcased outside of Campbell Hall ⏤ and have prepared illustration boards for people to use. Visit SEP’s weekly newsletter to sign up, the artwork will be due on or before May 31.
Get ready for the latest dance performance from Western
Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor
There’s no better way to mark the beginning of spring than with quality entertainment that gets those creative vibes flowing. One of the best ways to get into the lively springtime season is through the performing arts. Western’s very own dance program is here to provide some of their latest captivating projects, and they have made it even easier to enjoy it from home.
During the 2020-21 season, the Department of Theatre and Dance will be showcasing their latest event ⏤ the highly anticipated Spring Dance Concert on May 7. Audience members can tune in at 6 p.m. to see the works of artistic director and dance program professor, Darryl Thomas.
Along with Thomas’s creative vision coming to life on the stage and screen, the program will feature choreography from Western alumni and guest artist Kailee McMcMurran, as well as the dance program professors Corrie Cowart, Cynthia Garner, Amy McDonnell and Les Watanabe.
Join with the Zoom meeting ID: 858 1571 4238 and the passcode: “WOUDance,” or find the performance on WOUTV for an additional streaming option. Either way, make sure to grab the popcorn, goodies and dance the night away.
The Department of Theatre and Dance will have all of their performances presented virtually because of COVID-19 restriction guidelines, and anyone can keep up with upcoming events at wou.edu/dance. Additional details can be found on their Instagram page @woutheatredepartment.
Explore these ways to celebrate this longstanding holiday
Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor
April is almost over, which means Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner and will be here before we know it. For many, Cinco de Mayo celebrates Latinx culture and heritage, and is also commonly known as Battle of Puebla Day. May 5 commemorates the single battle known as the Battle of Puebla, which was won by the Mexican army in 1862. Due to common misconception, it is important to note that Cinco de Mayo is separate from Mexico’s Independence Day, which took place on Sept. 16, 1810.
Nowadays, the holiday provides an opportunity to recognize one’s heritage, celebrate culture and spend time with loved ones. For many, the day is spent in leisure and enjoying delicious food with family and friends. Although there may not be a ton of large events to attend, there are plenty of activities to do at home or around town for this year’s Cinco de Mayo.
Since large gatherings and social events are limited, reach out to family and friends with a quick phone call or text.
Support Latinx-owned businesses, online shops and other local organizations.
Consider sharing local Latinx resources for folks in the community.
Order in from local Mexican restaurants to support small businesses.
Try new recipes by making festive drinks, traditional meals and sweet treats.
Decorate with the colors of the Mexican flag ⏤ green, white and red.
Listen to Mariachi music and find new artists to enjoy year-round.
Decorate the house with streamers, balloons, flowers or play music.
Experiment with themed crafts and decorations.
If needing some creative inspiration for art projects, look for Latinx artists on YouTube.
Poke around online and find other Latinx creators to support.
Practice and expand one’s Spanish-speaking abilities with apps like Duolingo, or by watching movies and shows in Spanish.
Take it easy and spend the day getting some good old rest and recovery at home.
With Earth Day steadily approaching, it’s time to start making plans for April 22. If it’s staying at home or going out, there is more than one way to advocate for environmental concerns and to celebrate Earth Day. According to earthday.org, “(Earth Day) is marked by more than a billion people every year as a day of action to change human behavior and create global, national and local policy changes.” To celebrate, consider these ways to enjoy Earth Day either solo or socially distancing:
Donate unwanted clothes or items around the house to declutter, and to support local charities, organizations and people in need.
Return cans and bottles to declutter, recycle and get a little extra cash.
Get outdoors with gardening projects ⏤ which can attract native pollinators, support local ecosystems and provide fresh produce.
Walking, hiking and biking are rewarding activities that get the body moving while being in the great outdoors.
Join a group or go solo to pick up litter at parks, beaches, dams, hiking trails or around the neighborhood.
Reduce, reuse, recycle materials around the house with art projects, such as some of the ones below.
Create a bird feeder by taking a pinecone and covering it with peanut butter, and then sprinkling birdseed on the peanut butter. Once evenly coated, tie the pinecone up with string in a secure location.
Try painting and decorating rocks, which can add flair to any yard or garden. Designs can be as simple as a sun or a ladybug, or they can be used as identifying markers for different plants.
Make a fairy garden out of everyday items found outside, like sticks, bark, stones, moss and flowers.
Learn about other ways to be environmentally conscious, such as trying to go plastic-free, reducing waste and being energy efficient.
