Mount Hood

Decadent Desserts Meet Mixed Drinks

Try these dessert-based cocktail recipes at an upcoming gathering

Rylie Horrall | Managing Editor

The cool thing about cocktails is that they can be made from almost anything — whether that results in a delicious drink is an entirely different story. Listed below are four cocktails that are themed around dessert favorites, such as milkshakes and creme brulee. If a person is not of legal drinking age, don’t attempt these recipes. Please drink responsibly.

RED VELVET HOT COCOA COCKTAIL

Start to finish: 15 – 20 minutes, Yields: 2 cocktails

  • Vodka
  • White chocolate liqueur
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup cream
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 8 ounces white chocolate
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Red food coloring
  • Sprinkles

Boil milk and cream in a pot, then add white chocolate. Stir until melted. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, cocoa powder and red food coloring. Rim glass with melted white chocolate and coat with sprinkles. Remove boiling mixture from heat and stir in white chocolate liqueur and vodka as desired. Pour into glass and top with optional whipped cream.

Recipe from @theviplist on TikTok

FROZEN MUDSLIDE

Start to finish: 5 – 10 minutes, Yields: 1 cocktail

  • 8 ice cubes
  • 2 – 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream
  • 1 ounce vodka
  • 1 ounce Baileys Irish Cream
  • 1 ounce Kahlua
  • 1 ounce chocolate syrup
  • Whipped cream, optional
  • Chocolate sprinkles, optional

Chill serving glass in the freezer. Place ice cubes, ice cream, vodka, Baileys, Kahlua and chocolate syrup in a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour mudslide into the chilled glass, and freeze for 5 – 10 minutes to thicken, then top with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles if desired.

Recipe from insanelygoodrecipes.com

PEACH COBBLER COCKTAIL

Start to finish: 3 minutes, Yields: 1 cocktail

  • ¾ ounces hazelnut liqueur
  • ¾ ounces peach vodka
  • ¾ ounces heavy cream
  • Peach slice
  • Brown sugar
  • Crushed graham crackers

Rim a glass with a combination of brown sugar and crushed graham crackers, wetting the rim with liqueur. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the peach vodka, hazelnut liqueur and heavy cream. Shake well. Strain over fresh ice into prepared glass and garnish with peach slice.

Recipe from thespruceeats.com

CARAMEL CREME BRULEE WHITE RUSSIAN

Start to finish: 3 minutes, Yields: 1 cocktail

  • 3 ounces vodka
  • 1 ½ ounces Kahlua
  • 1 ½ ounces milk or heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons caramel syrup
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
  • Whipped cream

Fill a cocktail glass halfway with ice. Add vodka, Kahlua, milk, vanilla syrup and caramel syrup, in that order. Top with whipped cream and caramel sauce.

Recipe from Holly at 3yummytummies.com

Contact the author at howlmanagingeditor@wou.edu

Red Velvet Cot Cocoa Cocktail:

Frozen Mudslide:

Peach Cobbler:

Caramel Creme White Russian:

    New to the area: Sundew Tattoo

    Artist opens local tattoo studio in Monmouth

    Allison Vanderzanden | Copy Editor

    On Feb. 9, Sundew Tattoo opened for business off of Main Street in Monmouth. What was previously a veterinary clinic has been divided into two units, one of which is now Phoebe Bordadora’s tattoo studio. 

    Since they were young, Bordadora has always enjoyed creating art, and they are grateful for the opportunity to make their passion professional.

    “To have the privilege to do it now for a living is basically my dream come true,” Bordadora said.

    Bordadora is excited to offer their one-of-a-kind style to anyone looking for a unique tattoo. They aim for accessibility and comfortability from booking to the appointment. Some of the ways they do this include asking in the booking form what accommodations can be made, providing fidget toys in the waiting room and setting up a tablet for watching movies during the tattooing process.

    “Even though the tattoo industry has come a long ways very quickly, I think a lot of people still have that stereotype in their mind of … you have to be like a big tough guy to go get a tattoo and it’s going to be scary,” Bordadora said. “And I kind of feel like it’s my duty to make something completely the opposite of that, just like really welcoming and inclusive and not scary.”

    One of the things Bordadora is most proud to offer is Filipino inspired tattoos. As a half Filipino themself, Bordadora has taken up the ancient method of hand poking to tattoo some traditional designs with their own personal spin.

    “I really did get into it … to feel more connected to my ancient ancestors,” Bordadora said. “You don’t really see Filipino tattoos a lot nowadays, and I think it would be cool to kind of provide that.”

    For the near future, Bordadora plans to focus on making Sundew Tattoo as comfortable as it can be and make the empowering experience of getting tattooed more approachable. Some long term goals they have include selling merchandise like T-shirts and expanding their reach by attending tattoo conventions.

    Sundew Tattoo is open for appointments Tuesday – Saturday at 1276 Main St. E. Find a collection of Bordadora’s work on Instagram @phoebes_jeebies and book an appointment today at their website, tattoosbyphoebe.com.

    Contact the author at howlcopyeditor@wou.edu

    Thrifting Tips and Tricks

    Insider information to make thrifting more rewarding

    Mikayla Coleman | Managing Editor

    Thrifting is a great way to expand one’s wardrobe or space on a college student budget. Use these thrifting insider tips and tricks during the next trip to the thrift store. 

    Forget sizes. With the sheer amount of different clothing accumulated in any given thrift store, there is going to be a huge variety of sizes. Obviously, it’s good to have an idea of what is too big and too small for oneself, but don’t focus on specific numbers or common lettering sizes. Sizing varies greatly depending on different brands, materials and styles — even for the numbered ones that are supposed to be exact inches. Getting hung up on these labels can cause people to neglect great pieces that might not be organized correctly. 

    Know what to avoid. Buying something that has flaws is not always a bad thing. Pieces that have small holes or rips can easily be hand sewn together and made good as new. Stains, however, are almost always a losing game; there are some stains that just will not come out. Severity, size and substance are the three components to consider when a piece in a thrift store has a stain. I have had my fair share of paint-spotted clothing that I have continued to love and wear for several years. But if it’s oil, it’s going to be a journey to try to get the spot out — one with no certain ending. It may be better to save money for a different garment. 

    Identify what is worth it. In recent years, prices at thrift stores have inflated substantially due to the rising popularity of thrifting for the middle class and resellers. When intaking donations, thrift store employees may increase the price of items if it has a recognizable brand. If one feels that a particular item is priced too high, most thrift stores have a specific discount day or a way to identify when certain products will go on sale. Playing the long game can be beneficial for the wallet, but don’t count on the piece staying there forever.

    Happy thrifting!

    Contact the author at howlmanagingeditor@wou.edu

    Valentine’s Day on campus

    Western celebrates Valentine’s Day with Candy Grams, self-love and a Valentine’s bash

    Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

    This Valentine’s Day, Western saw a variety of enjoyable campus wide events put on by groups, including the housing residency committee and the Freedom Center.

    On campus, the housing residency committee hosted a variety of different events.

    Presented by the Ackerman and Barnum Hall committee, Candy Grams were made available for students to have delivered on Valentine’s Day. Whether the candy was for a friend, lover or oneself, little notes of love and encouragement before a day of classes were a fun activity for all. 

    If Candy Grams were purchased at Heritage Hall, an additional 25 cents was charged. All proceeds from the sales were donated to the Food Pantry on campus.

    The Heritage Hall committee also hosted a Valentine’s Bash, which took place on Feb. 11 in the Pacific Room in the WUC. To add to the excitement, attendants of the bash were given the opportunity to enter a raffle with prizes including a 32-inch Roku Smart TV, a JBL speaker and a new Hydro Flask.

    Another Valentine’s Day event hosted outside the housing community was the Freedom Center’s “Self love is the best love” event. The Freedom Center took the holiday to remind students about the importance of self-love by making self-care packages readily available for students on the second floor of the Werner University Center.

    Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

     

     

    Opening up for mental health

    Tips for talking about mental health disorders and disabilities

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    One of the hardest things when struggling with mental illnesses or disabilities can be telling others about it. Disclosing one’s mental health status is important to medical professionals and potential employers for a plethora of reasons and can even reduce stress levels, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Here are some tips to make others aware of an illness or disability while maintaining comfort. 

    • Who should be told. Make a list of people who do not already know about the status of one’s mental health. Ensure that they are trustworthy and free of judgment. Opening up to these people should feel like a breath of fresh air once done.
    • Determine the appropriate time and place. If the disorder or disability hinders the ability to work for any reason, informing an employer is a must. On the other hand, telling a random person at the grocery store is not necessary ⏤ unless assistance is needed. Add these people to the list, as they can help prevent anxiety-filled situations or episodes by knowing beforehand.
    • What to tell them. Plan what one would like to be disclosed; for example, if I were disclosing my bipolar disorder to a friend I would let them know what moods to expect from me when I am having an episode and how long the episodes may last. Feel free to also share positive experiences that have happened as a result, such as something it helps with or experiences created by it. Planning what information to tell the person beforehand can reduce stress. 
    • Suggest support options. Depending on the relationship to the person being told, let them know what could be needed from them. Here are some examples of what this can look like for:
    • A significant other: “When I am in an episode, it would help if you gave me physical space. I get triggered when I feel this way and am touched.”
    • A friend at the bar: “I’m on medication and am not supposed to drink. Can you be there for me and encourage me so I feel like I still belong?”
    • A parent: “I know I need help but making appointments causes anxiety for me, can you help?”
    • An employer: “Some days my mental illness affects me in strange ways. If I am doing something wrong or make you uncomfortable, can you let me know instead of reacting right away?”

     

    Remember, disclosing personal information about a mental illness or disability is always the choice of the person affected.

    In times of crisis, reach out for help. The National Alliance on Mental Illness has a free hotline open 24 hours a day at 800-950-6264.

    Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

     

     

    Does the Western community follow through on their New Year’s resolutions?

    Western students share their successes and shortcomings with their New Year’s resolutions

    Mollie Herron | News Editor

    At the beginning of every year, without fail, there is an overwhelming amount of people who decide to get in shape. There may even be some who decide to learn how to cook, play a new instrument or speak a new language. 

    We all try our best to follow these goals, but let’s be honest, are we all going to start working out for at least one hour a day and learn how to cook from scratch and completely master the ukulele just because we promised ourselves we would? I asked Western students and professors about their New Year’s resolutions and whether or not they achieved them. This is what our community had to say.

    Jordan Ehrhardt, Western senior and physical education and health major, said that his resolution was to work out five times a week. Unfortunately, he said that he was not able to fulfill that goal but did keep up with an impressive three or four times a week so far.

    Another student, junior exercise science major Ethan Flanigan, also made a goal regarding exercise, except he strives for six days a week. Flanigan says that so far he has been reaching that goal and keeping up with proper nutrition and hydration to assist in the upkeep of such a task.

    Dr. Anna Hardin of the biology department says that her resolutions were not formally made but in general she wanted to run more and improve her woodworking skills. 

    “I started running in the fall and then when the term got busy I stopped and I want to get back into it,” Hardin said. 

    Since she made her goals more vague than other clear cut examples, she thinks she will be able to stick with them and reach her goals by the end of the year.

    I made my own resolution to wear all the clothes in my closet so I can finally see once and for all what clothing I don’t actually wear. I have always had a problem when it comes to clothing, that problem being that I buy things to wear once and shove them deep into the void that is my closet. 

    Remembering resolutions after hastily making them on New Year’s Eve is the easy part. Continuing to follow through for the next 365 days is where it gets difficult.

    Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

     

     

    Felicity Martin: Where would you go?

    Interviewing Western students on their dream travel destinations

     Sarah Austin |  Lifestyle Editor

    With COVID-19 limiting travel for many, I set out to create a piece where I ask students their travel goals if they had nothing holding them back. This week, I caught Western senior Felicity Martin to chat about her bucket list dream.

    If you could leave tomorrow and go anywhere with no financial or personal responsibilities, where would you go?

    Japan.

    What draws you there?

    A lot. I like the culture. I watched anime a lot growing up. I have really come to (like) the spiritual and architectural side of Japan. It’s sort of weird. Going through therapy is weird seeing how Japanese culture has affected my upbringing. I want to be able to close that gap.

    Is there a specific thing or place that draws you in (cuisine, architecture, natural beauty, nightlife)?

    Ikebukuro. There’s this shrine, I don’t know the name of it but there’s this monk that visited a shrine and a local monk showed up and it was totally there. When they were cleaning it this sun ray hung over the center of the shrine. 

    What key things would you do while there?

    Visit every novelty cafe. The cat cafe, succubus, butler cafe. The Portlander cafe where everyone wears flannels and pretends to be a Portlander. I really want to get a bowl of ramen from a small town, something that an everyday person in the community would eat. Not that it is authentic in presentation and composition but in its execution, in a manner of speaking.

    What barriers keep you from actually going?

    Money and responsibilities. Money is the biggest, but if I didn’t care about my responsibilities to other people I would find a way there. Oh, and I don’t know Japanese ⏤ I would want to when I go.

    If you had a week off of responsibilities, using your current funds, where would you go?

    The (Tsubaki Grand Shrine) in America.

    Where is that?

    In Washington, it was the first shinto shrine built in the US.

    Email us or direct message @thewesternhowl on Instagram for a chance to be featured next!

    Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

    DIY gifts for Valentine’s Day

    Three Valentine’s Day gifts for that special someone

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to cost a lot of money, and for many people a homemade gift can be more meaningful. Here are a few ideas of gifts to make for a significant other, crush, friend or even roommate. 

    Date night jar.
    This gift is great for a Valentine who has a hard time thinking of date ideas, or activities they love so both parties feel appreciated. 

    Supplies needed: paper, a permanent marker, scissors and a jar or box.

    Instructions: On a sheet of paper, write in one color activities both people can do at home; examples include game night, movie night, cookoff, paint night, cook for one another or no electronics night. Cut to size and fold in half, then place in the jar. On the next sheet in a different color write activities to do together that do not cost money but require going somewhere; examples include hiking or having a picnic at the park. Lastly, repeat in another color activities that can be done together that would cost money; examples include “dessert on me”, dinner at a desired restaurant or “a golf match on me.” Write the key and attach to one side of the box or jar so everyone knows.

    Memory album.
    This is a beautiful gift to give someone important.

    Supplies needed: printed photos, a scrapbook or photo album and a pen.

    Instructions: Choose photos of the gift receiver or memories shared with them, then print. After printing, arrange photos and put them in the scrapbook or photo album. If desired, add labels or captions. When done, write a card or just give to the person and watch them relive and re-love the memories before them.

    “Crazy about you” notes.
    A heartfelt gift to be cherished forever.

    Supplies needed: Strips of paper or small sticky notes, a mason jar and a marker.

    Instructions: Using the paper strips or sticky notes, write on each one something that is appreciated about the person it is being given to. Fold or roll up, then place in the jar. They can read them whenever they want as a pick-me-up or right then to feel the love.

    Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

    To die for dinners

    Three Valentine’s dinner recipes for both couples and singles

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    Valentine’s Day dinner is a date night staple. Cooking for that special someone can be the perfect way to their heart — through the stomach. Here are three recipes to spice up the night.

    CREAMY TUSCAN CHICKEN
    Start to finish: 45 minutes
    Yields: 4 servings

    1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

    4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

    Kosher salt

    Freshly ground black pepper

    1 teaspoon dried oregano

    3 tablespoons butter

    3 cloves garlic, minced

    1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

    3 cups baby spinach

    ½ cup heavy cream

    ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan

    Lemon wedges, for serving

    In a skillet, heat oil on medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper and oregano. Cook until golden, 8 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet then set aside. Melt butter in a skillet then stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add tomatoes and season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook until tomatoes are about to burst, then add spinach. Cook until wilted. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Reduce heat to low, about 3 minutes. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5 – 7 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.

    Recipe from Delish

     

    SEARED SCALLOPS
    Start to finish: 9 minutes
    Yields: 12 – 13 scallops

    1 pound fresh large scallops (12 – 13 pieces)

    1 teaspoon salt

    1 teaspoon ground black pepper

    2 tablespoons vegetable oil

    ¼ cup butter

    2 cloves garlic, crushed

    1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

    1 teaspoon parsley, finely chopped

    2 lemon wedges

    Pat scallops dry with a paper towel then season with salt and pepper. Add oil in skillet over medium-high heat for 3 minutes until oil sizzles. Once the pan is hot, place scallops in. Cook for 2 minutes. Turn scallops over then add butter and garlic to the pan. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top then cook for another 2 minutes. Transfer onto a plate and sprinkle parsley on top. Serve with lemon wedges.

    Recipe from Ahead Of Thyme

    VEGAN LINGUINE
    Start to finish: 30 minutes
    Yields: 2 servings

    One 15-gram wholemeal linguine

    1 lime, zested and juiced

    1 avocado, chopped

    2 tomatoes, chopped

    ½ pack fresh chopped coriander

    1 red onion, finely chopped

    1 red chili, finely chopped

    Cook pasta according to the package, about 10 minutes. Put lime juice and zesting in a medium bowl. Combine with avocado, tomatoes, coriander, onion and chili. Mix well. Drain pasta and add to bowl, then mix. Serve while hot, or refrigerate and serve cold.

    Recipe from BBC Good Food

    Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

    Besties for the restie

    Tips to making long lasting relationships

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    Finding and making friends as an adult can be difficult. The first thing to recognize is that it all starts with making an effort ⏤ whether it be putting oneself out there, or finding someone with similar interests ⏤ and it can be tiring. Making that move can be the difference between finding a friend for life, and spending time alone — which is okay too, if preferred. All relationships take effort from both sides, so doing one’s part is important and if unable to, asking for help or communicating can mean the world. The following four pillars of friendship, when followed, can help ensure this.

    1. Making friendship a core value: by implementing relationships with friends as a core value, one is able to make a deep connection and build a support system for all parties to appreciate. 
    2. Team building activities: when others feel comfortable being themselves they are more inclined to make a life long friendship. Ideas for this include group yoga, working out together, creating videos for social media, game nights, paint nights and even a white elephant gift party, depending on the time of year.
    3. Sharing priorities: by communicating and sharing life priorities with each other, a deeper friendship can be established and bonded upon. This can include things from career and family goals to traveling and fitness.
    4. Establishing rituals: having set days or things that can be done for one another or together is a perfect way to strengthen both the friendship and one’s own mental wellbeing.

    Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

    Ideas for hosting PALentines

    Four ideas for a friendship party

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    Many people have heard of “Galentine’s” ⏤ a girl’s night before Valentine’s Day for singles to avoid loneliness. PALentine’s is even better, swapping significant others for friends of any gender or relationship status for the sole intention of enjoying the other’s company and having fun. Here are four party ideas to make any PALentine’s event enjoyable.

    Host a themed meal. Choose the meal of preference ⏤ brunch for example ⏤ and pick a theme to follow. Have everyone show up dressed for said theme. Whether it be a “white lies” or “country western” party, everyone will feel included.

    Drink competition. Let attendees know they will need to have a recipe for their drink of choice, and have all the necessary ingredients to make drinks with. While everyone is hanging out and chatting, one person will make their drink and bring out a cup for each person to try. After tasting, each person should score the drink on a piece of paper, then the next will begin to create their drink. Repeat the process until everyone has gone. The host should count all votes and name the best drink at the end. All participants should drink responsibly.

    Game night. Have each person bring a game to the party and play each one by one. Let the winner of the last game pick the next game. This can go on for hours if time permits.

    Hike and a picnic. As Pacific Northwest dwellers, a great amount of people love the outdoors. What better way to celebrate friendship with them than to go on a pretty hike and fill up on yummy food? This can be done as a destination surprise or be planned.

    Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

    Restaurants offering delivery and dine-in near Monmouth

    Get dinner delivered from these eight local restaurants

    Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

    With food delivery apps like GrubHub, DoorDash and Uber Eats becoming popular nationwide, it is no surprise that college students have been amongst the many to hop on the trend of food delivery. Here are some restaurants in and around Monmouth that are offering delivery services.

    • Yeasty Beasty — 167 Main St. W Monmouth, OR. Offering delivery on their website and dine-in services. Open Sunday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
    • Lunitas Mexican Food — 365 E Ellendale Ave. Dallas, OR. Offering delivery on DoorDash and GrubHub. Dine-in and drive-thru services offered. Open Sunday – Saturday, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.
    • Carl’s Jr. — 131 Pacific Highway N Monmouth, OR. Offering delivery on DoorDash, dine-in and drive-thru services. Open Sunday – Thursday from 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Friday – Saturday, 6 a.m. – 12 a.m.
    • 7-Eleven — 1696 Monmouth St. Independence, OR. Offering delivery on their website and DoorDash. In-store shopping available. Open 24/7 every day of the week.
    • Burgerville — 615 E Main St. Monmouth, OR. Offering delivery on DoorDash and drive-thru services. No dine-in. Open Sunday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

    • Momiji Sushi Restaurant — 183 Main St. W Monmouth, OR. Offering delivery on DoorDash, dine-in and takeout services. Open Sunday – Thursday from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
    • Subway — 113 E Main St. Monmouth, OR. Offering delivery on DoorDash, dine-in and takeout services. Open Sunday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
    • Urban Deli Mexican Food — 145 Monmouth Ave. N Monmouth, OR. Offering delivery on DoorDash, dine-in and takeout. Open Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

    Hours may be subject to change.

    Contact the author at staffwriter@thewesternhowl.com

    Wicked writing ideas for this October

    Eight frightful writing prompts to ignite the imagination

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    During the stressors of fall term, it can be rewarding to sit down and write something creative. Celebrate this Halloween season by crafting up a chilling short story. Listed below are eight spooky ideas to help ignite the imagination. Take the prompts below and morph them into any horrific desire.

    • Todd Hall — previously a women’s dorm — is rumored to be haunted and feed on the fear of men. Halloween night a group of men walk by the three story brick building. They hear/see…. 
    • After talking to someone on “Tinder,” they say something disturbing and get blocked. The next morning they are reported missing and there are flyers around the city.
    • While sweeping the living room, a dark stain is noticed near the carpet. After lifting to investigate, a hidden door is discovered.
    • It’s the day after Halloween. Nobody shows up to the 8 a.m. lecture besides the professor and one person. Campus is empty….
    • During an all-nighter at the Hamersly Library, a strange sound is heard. It repeats every five minutes….
    • While at a pumpkin patch, three close friends decide to enter a corn maze and ignore the closed sign across its entrance. After twenty minutes of wandering, they realize one friend is missing…. 
    • Using “Bumble BFF” a friend-date is made. After meeting and having dinner together, they offer a ride home. Instead of home, they pull into….
    • The main character is driving to the coast when they pull off onto a dirt trail, in hopes of a short cut. It seems to work until they see a tree fall on the road behind them, trapping them in. Forward is the only way to go on this unknown and unmarked trail, and the sun sets in two hours.

    For a chance to be featured in Student Media’s art and literary magazine, “The Northwest Passage,” submit stories via email to northwestpassage@mail.wou.edu.

    Happy haunting, writers.

    Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

    New beginnings with roomies

    Tips to have a positive roommate experience

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    Having a roommate can be an exciting experience for many, but daunting for those who have never had one or had a negative encounter. Here are some tips to make a positive and easy transition to living with roommates.

    Avoid talking about events one plans to attend if the other person is not invited. This is a great way to be respectful while bypassing an awkward encounter.  

    Try labeling food in the fridge so you don’t lose your favorite items.

    Be mindful of food items. Whether it is in the fridge, a cabinet or on the table make sure to keep track of personal items. Close containers and bags to prevent insects. Watch for expiration dates to avoid both mold and a spoiled scent in the room. Don’t take up too much space either; leave the same amount of area for each roommate in shared spaces.

    Establish guest etiquette. Having a guest in one’s place is not against the rules, but make sure to set boundaries with roommates beforehand. This can include things such as notifying roommates when and how long they will be there, acceptable noise levels, appropriate and inappropriate times or days, parking arrangements and so on. If in a dorm on Western’s campus, be sure to also follow all guest rules; see wou.edu/housing-updates for details.

    Make a chore list. Having set chores that are assigned to someone or are to be done on a certain day will ensure a clean living space as well as fair delegation. Use a whiteboard, sticky note, Google calendar or other method that everyone will be sure to see. Start by choosing what days chores should be done and how often, and rotate names for said activities. For example, have one roommate vacuum on Sunday, another clean the bathroom Friday, trade off who takes out the trash when full and so on.

    Respect common areas. Give the same amount of respect to roommates that is expected of them.

    Above all else, be open and communicate with each other so living together is enjoyable for all parties.

    Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

    Sustainable decor for Halloween

    Repurposing crafts for horrific handmade decor

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    Seasonal decorating can be expensive or create a lot of unnecessary waste. Try these ideas that repurpose items lying around the house for a more affordable and sustainable option.

    • Artificial flowers can easily go from chic to eerie. Paint or spray paint with any color. Once dry, glue on a googly eye or draw an eyeball in the center.
    • A milk jug can be turned into a jack-o’-lantern. Wash out the jug and let it dry first. Decorate the jug in any number of ways; draw a face on the front, tape on construction paper or paint the entire jug. After the face is made, light up the pumpkin by filling it with glow sticks, string lights or battery powered candles. Add leaves to the spout to complete the pumpkin. Make multiple for variation.
    • Using newspaper or old homework, make a fake body or scarecrow. Do so by stuffing some clothing with crumpled pieces of paper. Place outside the door, in the yard or somewhere in the house for a ghoulish addition to your Halloween decor.
    • Yarn or thread can be made into spider webs. Hang up a few tacks wherever is convenient, then weave under and around the yarn in any pattern for a “threadful” look.
    • For an apothecary touch, find some mason jars and fill them with spooky items. Use plastic or candy eyeballs, water and food coloring to give a potion look, branches or crushed leaves and so much more for a chilling counter.
    • Repurpose pool noodles into a faux chain. Take one noodle, stand it straight up and down and cut it vertically in half an inch to one inch wide sections. Repeat all the way down. After all have been cut, make one horizontal cut per chain link. Connect each individual piece to another. Paint black or gray for full effect. 

    Properly dispose of all items, keep decorations around for a creepy theme or store for next year after use for a completely green experience. 

    Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

    Budgeting tricks: the cash envelope system

    A quick guide to budgeting effectively

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    Being on one’s own can cost a lot of money; from big items like rent and other bills to miscellaneous things such as a night out or the latest video game, saving can seem impossible. Budgeting with spreadsheets can be difficult or feel like another homework assignment, so a simpler technique is the cash envelope system. This system helps teach mindful spending habits while ensuring the user stays on budget. Here is a guide to start saving money with the cash envelope system. 

    To begin, a good rule to follow is the 50/30/20 method: 50% of funds go to needs, 30% wants and 20% to financial goals.

    Make an envelope for each category that applies: rent, utilities, phone bill, gas, groceries, emergency, savings and leisure.

    Put aside cash in each envelope corresponding to the amount used. For example, rent gets $500 each month, the phone bill gets $75 and so on. To plan for gas, look at past months to see the average spending, or take the miles driven in one week divided by the mileage of the car and multiplied by the price of gas. 

    Anything left over after bills are paid can be distributed through the other categories, such as setting a certain amount towards a savings goal for the holidays or wanted item. 

    Carrying cash may be an unattractive option for some due to safety or the time to set it up; luckily, there are free applications that follow the same concept and use the 50/30/20 rule. 

    “Mvelopes” is a website and app that takes approximately 15 minutes to set up budgeting goals. Another website and app with a similar tool to track spending habits is called “Goodbudget.” More popular in the budgeting category, “Clarity Money” is a free, easy to use tracker that can also be connected to bank accounts.

    Trying this trick? Send in photos to be featured on our Instagram, @thewesternhowl.

    Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

    Bailey Schafer: Where would you go?

    Interviewing Western students on their dream travel destinations

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    With COVID-19 limiting travel for many, “The Western Howl” set out to create a piece where we ask students their travel dreams. In between classes, I caught Western senior Bailey Schafer, an education major, to ask her about her dream destination. 

    If you could leave tomorrow and go anywhere, where would you go?

    Ireland.

    Have you been there before?

    Yes. I’ve been there twice. First when I was 11 and the next (when) I was 17.

    That must be a long flight.

    Yeah. It’s like 16 to 18 hours.

    What do you do for that long in a plane?

    Sleep mostly or read. If it’s a nice plane I’ll watch a movie.

    What factors (cuisine, architecture, natural beauty, nightlife) draw you there?

    I have family there, it’s really beautiful. There (are) a lot of landmarks to visit too.

    What key things would you do while there?

    Visit The Giant’s Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher.

    Where would you go to eat?

    There’s a cafe I really like called Java Republic. My uncle owns it, it’s like the Dutch Bros of Ireland.

    What barriers keep you from actually going?

    Money and being able to take time off of school and work.

    Since you’ve been there before, how much would you say it cost to go?

    A few grand. I stay with family so I save there and with food but it’s really the plane tickets that are expensive. Traveling by bus there is cheap too.

    If you were able to take time off work and school with your current financial resources, realistically where would you go? 

    I would go to California to visit my best friend! She lives in San Bernardino.


    Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

    Interviewing tips and techniques

    Four tricks to leave a good impression on potential employers

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

    The need for a job becomes apparent for just about everyone at some point in their life. One of the most important things about a job can be the interview — it sets up not only the opportunity for employment, but also for one’s path as they progress at said job. Here are four of the most important focusing points to help land the job.
    Dress for the job being interviewed for. According to Jill Hurd, broker at Taylor & Taylor Realty Co. in Lincoln City, “It shows the person’s motivation and determination.”

    It is safer to overdress for an interview than to underdress. If applying for a job where the dress code is casual, go business casual if possible. Dress up an outfit that is already owned with small details such as adding jewelry like a watch or earrings, accessories like a portfolio or purse and wearing a clean pair of shoes. Make sure to also be well groomed. 

    Dressing for success in business casual wear is a great way to impress potential employers.

    First impressions are important, so make sure you show up prepared for the interview. Know who is conducting the interview and memorize their name. Bring a resume copy and any references to the meeting. This shows organization and gives the appearance of professionalism. Research the company as well so if a question arises the ability to answer will be quicker and the interviewer will be more likely to remember you. Lastly, read the listed job post, and look up the resumes of other people with the same title. This is a great way to tune up a resume with skills that may not have previously been considered. 

    Eye contact with the interviewer is proven to convey confidence and self esteem which are important qualities in an employee, according to Fusion Career Services. This can be a difficult task for many, but try to remember to look them in the eye at least 50% of the time, or try focusing on one eye and switching while they talk. 

    “Eye contact is the number one thing for me,” said Jody Gaver, guidance director at Taravella High School in Florida. “I always tell my students that. If you can’t look in my eyes to talk to me and show interest and are looking around everywhere, I would be concerned you can’t do your job well.”

    Tardiness to an interview can foreshadow later punctuality issues. Not only will arriving 10 – 15 minutes early to an interview allow time to decompress and prepare, but will also indicate to the employer that their time is valued and can earn respect. 

    “I have always been praised for showing up early to interviews and making it a talking point before exiting at the end that being on time is something I pride myself in,” said Caitlyn Kessinger, former nanny in Dallas.

    Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

    Eight fall activities to get the blood pumping

    October begins and so does the search for scary fun activities 

    Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor 

    For many Oregonians fall is the time to flourish. As the leaves begin to change the need to go and adventure increases. From pumpkin patches and corn mazes, to music festivals and haunted houses  — the possibilities are endless. While many people have traditions they follow each year, these hair-raising options could help switch up the fun for any age. 

    Photos courtesy of Karly Packineau
    • Bauman’s Farm & Garden (Gervais) — Starting in 1895, this family run farm has activities for all ages, ranging from farm animals and pumpkin picking, to obstacle courses and mazes. Open Oct. 8 – 9, 16 – 17, 22 – 24 and 30. Hours vary. Admission is $11 – $26.  
    • Chamber Of Darkness Haunted House (Monroe) — Not recommended under eight years old, this premiere haunting experience is themed as a “Wicked Wonderland.” Open Oct. 12, 18 – 19, and 25 – 26 from 7 – 11 p.m. Admission is $8 with $1 discount if a canned food donation is made. 
    • Escape The Room Oregon (Springfield) — This fun adventure features six fully immersive Halloween puzzles to escape with a group. Open Wednesday – Sunday with various hours. Admission is $30 a person, with a $5 coupon on special days.
    • Hood River Valley Harvest Fest (Hood River) — The old fashioned fall festival is a fun filled event with over 125 local vendors of food, wine, crafts and more for the whole family. Open Oct. 15 – 17. Kids 12 and under are free, adults are $10 and seniors are $5. 
    • Milburn’s Haunted Manor (Hubbard) — Both a trick and a treat to experience a total immersion experience that will make you scream. Open Oct. 8 – 10 from 7 – 11 p.m., and 15 – 17, 22 – 24 and 28 – 31 from 7 – 10 p.m.
    • The Fear PDX (Portland) — With five terrifying attractions, this haunted house is known as the scariest in the Pacific Northwest. Open Thursday – Sunday through the month of October, from 7 – 10 p.m. Thursday and Sunday, and 7 p.m. – 12 a.m. Friday, Saturday and Halloween. Tickets start at $29.99 with discounts for bigger parties.

    • The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island (Portland) — This 52 year old farm offers free hayrides, a newly designed corn maze each year, a cafe, a fresh market, an animal barn and a cow train on the weekends. Open daily; dates, hours and admission vary depending on which attraction is chosen.
    • STRANGEST THINGS HAUNTED FARM (Eugene) — This terrifying interactive haunt covers popular horror films from the last 30 years with themed mazes, rooms and zones. Open Thursday – Saturday, 8 – 11 p.m. Admission varies on party size.

    Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

    Four tips on combating homesickness in college

    A student’s guide to managing feeling homesick while living away from home

    Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

    While COVID-19 continues on its rampage around the world with the recent emergence of the delta variant, college students have held out and moved back to campus for in person classes. Although most welcome the change, many first-year students have taken the biggest hit. Following the events of virtual classes in 2020 and 2021, more college students than ever are having to endure a stressful change in schedule and routine. Here are four tips on managing homesickness while away at college.

    Connect with family and friends back home. A good way to combat feelings of homesickness is to find ways to stay in touch with family members. An easy way to do so is by taking advantage of today’s technology and video chatting with friends and family. Seeing a familiar face in the midst of unfamiliarity has proven to be cathartic in more than one way. For those who live closer to home, setting up a time to meet up with family in person is also as effective.

    Establish a routine and familiarise oneself with the new surroundings. College students can spend up to nine months at a time on their college campus, sometimes more. It is important that students learn to establish a set routine that makes their temporary living situation feel more like home. Walk around campus and become familiar with scenery and surroundings. Explore the town that will be called home for the next few years, such as grocery stores, restaurants and retail stores.

    Get involved in campus activities by joining clubs, community organizations and volunteering. Everyone wants to be welcomed and feel a sense of belonging. Getting a job or joining clubs or other student organizations is a great way to combat feelings of homesickness. It keeps the mind occupied while also providing comfort and security. Western is home to more than 60 clubs and organizations, so students are sure to find something that reflects personal passions.

    Take advantage of campus resources. Many first-year or transfer students do not take advantage of the resources their university provides. Western is proud to have their WOU Ambassadors, which work with the Admissions Office on campus to provide campus tours, help with preview days as well as other various on campus activities. Sometimes feelings of homesickness can be brought on by stress. When classes or workload gets tough, or if one is in need of a much needed emotional or psychological break, the Student Health and Counseling Center is open for virtual and in person appointments from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. to provide counseling. Western is also home to the PLUS team — students who welcome first-year students during orientation, New Student Week and registration. The PLUS team is there to serve any students in need of guidance, and are always willing to help make college a happy and healthy experience.

    Contact the author at staffwriter@thewesternhowl.com

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