Mount Hood

Millennials vs Gen Z

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Fashion has been a decade-specific vital component of style as generations’ styles and trends evolved. Clothing went from being functional and necessary to becoming a status symbol for designers and high-profile personalities. People dressed more modestly in the ’40s and ’50s, whereas the ’60s and ’70s introduced a new rebellious style of attire that offered more individualism rather than uniformity. The 1980s and 1990s made those designs more distressed and destructive and discovered a method to combine high fashion with more basic and inexpensive apparel. The 2000s were chaotic, but the 2010s and beyond showed potential for consistency. Music has a major effect on fashion, with artists using their outfits to make statements and grand impressions. Hip-hop has been a major contributor to this for decades. Artists like MF Doom, Erika Badou and Nelly have worn accessories representing their individuality and music. Musicians see clothes as a statement about who they are and their uniqueness. 

Millennials were the generation born between 1981 and 1996, with ages currently ranging from 28 to 43. Fashion for millennials has advanced significantly, particularly in streetwear. Brands include Supreme, DCs and Adidas. Musicians in the period, such as Soulja Boy and Avril Lavigne, wore baggy pants with belts and chains, as well as skate shoes like Converse, Vans and DCs. Some notable millennial celebrities who have made fashion statements include Paris Hilton, who has worn items that have sparked trends, such as velvet Juicy Couture tracksuits; Britney Spears and Christina Aguilar. Together they helped popularize the 2000s Y2K look. There’s also Billy Porter, who is known for his outlandish ensembles that make androgynous looks work. Finally, Timothée Chalamet stands out for his powerful but experimental style on the red carpet. Aside from developing music and apparel, all of these superstars grew up in a generation that valued fashion as a vital part of their brand. It’s not surprising that when celebrities and original influencers donned specific apparel, people followed suit. Clothing companies would pick their inventory based on what was popular at the moment, and millennials worldwide would loot the shelves for those tracksuits, Hillary Duff’s new jewelry piece or J.Lo’s perfume.

Now, millennial fashion is bright and trendsetting. 

Generation Z was born between 1997 and 2012, which means their ages range from 12 to 27. Gen Z introduces a new style of fashion onto the scene, where trends have resurrected. In today’s world of rapid fashion and social media, trends come and go quickly. With trends coming and disappearing, it’s tough to pinpoint where Generation Z gets their style. A popular motif is a return to basics, with teenagers and adults now wearing plain-colored clothes and focusing on accessories and layering. There is also an edgy aspect that is prominent in many Generation Z styles, seen with renowned celebrities such as Billie Eilish, who is rather experimental with her attire. She wears masculine style and feminine apparel in a variety of hues that are well-planned and adorned. Emma Chamberlain has also made her YouTube channel the focal point of her fashion offerings with a preference for vintage and modern apparel, which gives her style a nostalgic feel. Lil Nas X is among the most outlandishly dressed celebrities. Nas takes his outfits extremely seriously — they are always well-thought-out and resemble costume designs. Every item of Nas’ clothing tells a narrative, and everything is designed to work together seamlessly. And, of course, Zendaya, who is possibly the Gen Z “queen of fashion” with her seamlessly fierce looks. A fan favorite at the Met Gala, audiences look toward her movie premieres to see what she pulls out of her fabulous bag. She’s a true talent for Gen Z and knows how to be original and unique. For Gen Z, clothing is more of a statement piece in terms of impressions, since it is about adding a specific item to a look rather than the appearance itself. For example, a new trend has been to wear hair bows of every color and size. Gen Z’s clothing preferences are always changing, thus many trends may or may not last, and many people will forget about them. While constant change might be a negative, it also allows Gen Z to experiment and be creative with their wardrobe. Combining complementary colors and accessories opens up a world of options. Generation Z has the potential to recycle vintage items in ways previous generations did not, and much of it is paying off. With the emergence of fast fashion, Generation Z is turning to charity stores and secondhand sites to discover excellent quality things that they can incorporate into their wardrobe — a return to vintage styles with a new perspective.

Overall, every generation has its ups and downs, and everyone will always believe that their generation’s dress was more cool and right for the period. Fortunately, the nicest part about new generations is that they can take a little bit of each generation’s style and trends and either reuse them or even make the decision to let them go altogether. Individuality and culture have never been more widespread in previous generations with everyone having the opportunity to develop their distinctive style. Millennials are responsible for the existence of Generation Z fashion for they did the dirty work of finding what looks good and trendy, and without them, many of the celebrities of this time wouldn’t have such a stance on iconic pieces. Gen Z continues to thrive, so maybe things will change. But until then, this one goes to the millennials.   

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Events happening this fall

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Indigenous Peoples Day — Each year, Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on the second Monday in October. A celebration will take place in Salem’s Riverfront Park Oct. 14. Indigenous Peoples Day, formerly known as Columbus Day, commemorates the histories, cultures and perspectives of indigenous peoples and their forebears in North America. The event will feature children’s activities, lecturers, dancers and other attractions. The day raises awareness of Indigenous peoples challenges, tenacity and unique customs, fostering understanding and unity across cultures. 

Community Action Harvest Fest — Hosted at the Willamette Heritage Center Oct. 30 from 5 – 9 p.m., the Community Action Harvest Fest is an immersive costume party conducted amidst one of Salem’s most haunted locations, the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill. The event will include beverages, dancing, tarot readings and fundraising for the ARCHES homeless initiative. General admission is $40, and there is the Magic of Harvest Fest’s VIP Dye Room for $100, which includes free drinks and food as well as private access and accommodations. 

Turner Night Market — Turner, Oregon, will have a night market on 5325 Denver St. from 4 – 9 p.m. Oct. 11, with several food vendors, live music, locally made earth items, beer and wine. 

Fazio Farms Corn Maze in the City — Located at the corner of Fazio Way and NE 13th Street, Portland, Oregon. The hours are Monday – Friday from 4 – 8 p.m. and Saturday –- Sunday from 9 – 8 pm. Fazio Farms and Corn Maze offers a fun and immersive corn maze, pumpkin patch, food, drinks and produce tents with fresh corn, pickles, and more. 

Yachats Village Mushroom Festival — The Yachats Mushroom Festival runs from Friday, Oct. 18, to Sunday, Oct. 20. The celebration kicks off on Friday night with a mushroom-themed event in the Yachats Commons, complete with cocktails and nibbles. Restaurants in town will serve mushroom-based dishes gathered from the nearby forests. Every festival walk is led by an experienced mycologist, forest ecologist or naturalist. 

The Great Onion Festival — The Sherwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Great Onion Festival, an annual event at 16155 Southwest Sunset Blvd., Sherwood, Oregon from 9 – 4 p.m. The celebration includes food, crafts, an onion-eating competition and entertainment. The event commemorates Sherwood’s heritage and the significance of farming in America. Some claim the celebration commemorates a time when people went to tremendous efforts to cultivate the land. 

Squishing of The Squash at The Oregon Zoo — The Squishing of the Squash event will take place Oct. 19 – 20 and 26 – 27 at the Portland Zoo. Throughout both weekends, visitors may see the zoo’s enrichment team and keepers give pumpkins and other holiday-themed snacks to the animals. There is also live entertainment, such as magic shows and puppet shows. Adults and children are welcome to dress up for their visit to the zoo. All tickets must be purchased in advance online. 

History and Mystery Dallas — History and Mystery is a paranormal tour in Dallas, Oregon, every Saturday at 6 and 8 p.m. The tour covers the history of these awe-inspiring buildings and discusses local mythology about the spooky behind their walls. Certain long-forgotten structures are open for viewers to get a glimpse into the mystique of downtown Dallas. 

Annual Hood River Valley Harvest Festival — Hood River Harvest Festival runs Oct. 11, from 1 to 6 p.m., Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The valley’s farms and orchards provide food markets, massive displays of apples, pears, squash, raw honey, stunning flowers and local plants and herbs. It also features live music, restaurants and food trucks. Merchants of homemade goods are selling locally made hats, candles, cheese, jams, carpentry, paintings, apparel and jewelry. 

West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta —  Held in the Lake of the Commons, 8325 SW Nyberg St., Tualatin, Oregon, 97062 Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. since 2004, The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta has been one of Oregon’s most well-known fall festivals. People from all across the country have gathered to see costumed individuals race enormous pumpkin boats. Pumpkin racing occurs between 12 and 2 p.m., and food, entertainment, pumpkin bowling and pumpkin golf are also available.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Can’t help fall-ing in love

Written by: Taylor Duff | Lifestyle Editor

Scary Movie Marathon — A scary movie night is an excellent and cost-effective date idea, perfect for snuggling up together while celebrating the spooky season. Setting the perfect environment is essential — dim the lights, make some popcorn and curl up beneath a blanket to establish the tone. Netflix and other streaming services offer a wide range of options, as do free movies on YouTube. 

Make Fall Treats — A terrific bonding activity and something that gets the laughter and conversation going is to try making an online recipe for apple pie, cookies, muffins or hot chocolate to enjoy together while listening to soft music in the background or reminiscing. Date night just got sweeter with some delicious treats and a cozy atmosphere that would make anyone fall in love.

Farmers Market — A farmers market is a pleasant and relaxed fall date idea that is perfect for casual chat. Fall farmers markets are filled with fresh produce such as pumpkins, apples, squash and other seasonal items, making it an ideal time to go exploring together. While walking around the market, one may taste handcrafted items and select fresh ingredients for that evening’s dinner date.. Most also include live music, flower booths or warm beverages like cider, coffee or hot chocolate.   

Pumpkin Patch — Visiting a pumpkin patch is a classic fall date idea that mixes enjoyment, nostalgia and a little adventure. It creates a great setting for enjoying the crisp autumn air while wandering through rows of pumpkins, seeking the perfect one to take home. Pumpkin patches sometimes provide other activities like hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos and marketplaces, making it feel like an outing to the farmers market. 

Haunted House — To truly judge a relationship by its compatibility, a haunted house is an exciting fall date idea that is ideal for getting into the creepy mood of the season. It adds fun and anticipation to any October night, resulting in moments of shared adrenaline and possibly fearful embraces. Whether couples are navigating creepy passages, evading jump scares or laughing off the stress together, the experience triggers a wide range of emotions that can draw two people closer. It may also reveal who is the bravest.

Fall Hikes — Fall is one of the nicest times of year for hiking if one is seeking a date that combines the season’s natural beauty with quality time spent outside. As the weather cools and the leaves turn vivid colors of red, orange and yellow, nature transforms into a beautiful background for a hike. Walking along forest paths or up gorgeous mountains provide opportunities to take in spectacular scenery, allowing people to linger and enjoy the moment together. 

Horseback Riding — Riding through stunning trails adorned with colorful foliage provides a calm getaway from the chaos and rush of daily life, allowing potential couples to connect with nature and each another. It’s an experience that differs from normal date activities by providing a feeling of adventure and originality. 

Paint and Sip — Paint and Sip is a fun, relaxing fall date idea that combines art, drinks and a comfortable setting. Usually, seasonal or autumn-themed paintings can include subjects such as pumpkins, fall foliage or rustic landscapes. While painting, the couple can talk, laugh at one another’s progress or give advice or criticism, making the hobby more enjoyable and participatory. 

Fall Photos — Taking seasonal photos in the park is a romantic and captivating date idea that captures the warmth and beauty of the season, while also generating lasting memories to frame. The internet is a great place to check for inspiration, like creating a ghost photoshoot: grab a sheet, accessories and various props and dress as ghosts for pictures. It’s also an excellent chance to take a relaxing walk, engage in conversation and absorb the natural beauty surrounding you. 

Costume Party — A costume party is a fun and creative fall date idea that encapsulates the whimsical and festive spirit of the spooky season. At the party, enjoy the social side of interacting with others, appreciate their attire and partake in themed activities and music, allowing for the perfect activity to unwind and have fun while completely immersed in the event.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu

Learning your love language

Caity Healy | Lifestyle Editor

The way that each person tends to interpret and express love varies depending on who you are. Understanding your love language can be something that makes incredible positive changes to your relationships. Not only will it help you understand yourself and the way you desire things to be, it will also help your partner understand the aspects of the relationship that you value and find important. Ultimately, knowing your love language will lead to a better understanding of each other as individuals, and a better understanding of what needs to be done to improve and keep your relationship positive.

“The Five Love Languages” by Dr. Gary Chapman created a new way to think of relationships. Saving numerous marriages and inspiring others to see how they could grow with their partner and progress as a team, the five languages he defined essentially decode the ways people communicate with their significant others. According to Chapman, they are “universal ways that all people express and interpret love.”

The first of the five languages is words of affirmation. For those who identify with this, they find a lot of value in hearing the words “I love you.” Being complimented or being told that they are loved is something they hold real appreciation for and find incredibly important. And that also means that if someone were to insult them or make a negative comment, it would cut deeper with them than with others.

The second language is quality time. With this, it’s important to the person to have undivided attention from the person they love. While they don’t need it all the time, they put a lot of value into the thought of the person they love setting aside time to make it just about them. Togetherness and being close, as well as good conversation and maintaining eye contact is important to them. This also means that if you choose to blow off plans, are constantly distracted — especially by other people or your cell phone — or feeling like they aren’t being fully listened to can have negative effects.

The third language is receiving gifts. Having something they can hold that took thought and effort to some is a material representation of the love that their partner has for them. It doesn’t mean that they are necessarily a materialistic person, but knowing that effort was put into a gift means a lot to them. Gifts will make them feel appreciated.

The fourth language is acts of service. Helping out your partner when they are going through a tough time, or just lending a hand when they are struggling will speak volumes to them. Being perceived as lazy by them will bother them a lot; to them, actions speak louder than words. Favors will go a long way.

The fifth and final language is physical touch. While this can mean in the bedroom, it goes outside of those walls as well. A warm hug and embrace will make them feel safe and loved. They’ll put a lot of value into cuddling and hand-holding. This doesn’t always mean they want a ton of PDA, but they’ll appreciate the feeling of being held by the one they love.

Knowing your partner’s love language can be incredibly beneficial. It will solve the mystery of “what is missing in this relationship?” and open doors to a far more understanding and well-working partnership. Knowing your own is important too, because if you don’t know then how can you expect your partner to?

Note that while your partner may favor a certain language, the others cannot be neglected. Most find every single aspect important, but a specific one is held to the highest degree. Don’t let the others fall behind just because you are putting preference on one.

Contact the author at chealy16@mail.wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

How to tell the difference between real and fake Honor societies

Rebecca Meyers | Lifestyle Editor

It’s not uncommon for students to receive emails every so often from organizations calling themselves honor societies. They advertise that their members get exclusive opportunities, such as scholarships, connections to potential employers as well as a status that will be a helpful addition to a resume. They also often say that all this can be yours — as long as a membership is purchased.

However, as noted by the fact that “scams” is one of the first things that pops up alongside internet searches for a number of these societies, not all of these organizations are necessarily legitimate. While they may in fact give out memberships, whether they truly deliver on what is promised is what should be considered before committing.

The Association of College Honor Societies, or ACHS, is an organization that evaluates the credibility of various groups claiming to be legitimate honor societies. According to the website, there are a number of red flags that will often indicate whether an organization is legitimate.  

One of these things to consider is the minimum requirement for academic performance. According to the ACHS, a 3.0 grade point average is considered low for most credible honor societies. Most legitimate ones will look for the upper 35 percent grade point average for undergraduates, which is closer to 3.2 or 3.3. Vague entry requirements are generally not a good sign.

Another thing to consider is that scam organizations differ from real ones when it comes to presence and activity on actual college campuses. If it can be found on campus, or if a specific chapter can be located, it’s more likely to be legitimate.

According to the ACHS, other factors to think about involve the official status of the organization. If it is for-profit rather than non-profit, that alone is considered a warning sign. Also, the website should clearly state the criteria for membership, contain a listing of bylaws and a national headquarters and staff easily located on the site.

An invitation to join an honor society can seem at first like a good opportunity, but doing some research beforehand can save money in the long run. A credible honor society can provide certain opportunities, and sorting them out from the rest can be well worth the time it takes.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of achsnatl.org

Social media presence and how it can affect the future

Tips for making social media pages professional

Sarah Austin | Lifestyle Editor

We live in a time where social media is used by almost everyone for anything from communicating with friends or family, storing photos, promoting businesses, to much more. When applying to a new school, program or job, it is important to check one’s social media presence beforehand. 

Students have experienced employment rejection based on posts they may have forgotten about or did not think about when uploading. People may be unaware that prospective employers check our pages, and they do it for many reasons such as gauging personality, professionalism, if a resume matches and so on. Here are some tips for cleaning up social media that can help protect oneself in the future.

  • Go through old posts and status updates searching for any unprofessional things such as derogatory comments, confidential information from a prior job, drama and inappropriate photos.
  • Photos holding alcohol, partying or otherwise inappropriate activity should be archived.
  • Make accounts private in settings, and on Facebook, choose “Friends” for activity, or “Just me” for posts that would be best kept personal.
  • Double check resumes and what is listed on social media for any inconsistencies on dates, volunteer work or jobs.
  • Deactivate or delete old profiles that are no longer in use. This will give a clean search and also keep emails free of spam.
  • Google oneself to see what potential employers will see.
  • Check personal following lists on all accounts, removing any controversial or inappropriate pages.

      This does not mean a person has to censor their life and have no control over their accounts. It is a word of caution to be aware of what is being put on the internet and who may see it. A rule of thumb is if it would be uncomfortable to show a supervisor, do not post it. 

      Contact the author at lifestyleeditor@thewesternhowl.com

      Hiking trail recommendations

      Written by: Quinlan Elise | Photo Editor

      The weather is getting nicer, and it’s time to go on some hikes while the trails aren’t too muddy. Here are some recommendations for good local hikes to go on, with friends or solo.  

      Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge — About 20 minutes away in Dallas, there is a system of walkable trails, filled with a variety of beautiful wild plants and animals. Baskett Slough is a great place to go to birdwatch, but be sure to wear sunscreen because shade can be hard to find.

      Silver Falls — An Oregon staple, Silver Falls State Park is 50 minutes East of Monmouth. The highlight of the trails is a wide arched walk behind a 177-foot waterfall curtain. A visit to the Trail of Ten Falls is a must, bringing hikers to the base of ten waterfalls along a 7.2-mile loop with shortcuts, if needed. As a more popular site, a parking permit must be purchased.  

      McDowell Creek Falls — About 70 minutes from Monmouth, Lebanon has a beautiful three miles of hiking trails alongside clear water. There are four layers of waterfalls to find, with lookout points and benches to rest, and a beautiful bridge system perfect for photos.

      Abiqua Falls — A short but steep hike with a rewarding view, Abiqua Falls is an 80-minute drive to Scotts Mills. The route to the trail may require a car that can handle big bumps, and the hike is difficult, but the secluded and magical waterfall is worth the trek. 

      Dog Mountain — Located two hours away in the Columbia River Gorge, the Dog Mountain trail lines the Southern border of Washington alongside the Columbia River. The trail is one of the most popular, but also one of the most strenuous in the Gorge, and the steep hike is prone to strong winds.  It is currently peak spring wildflower season in the area, so one should be prepared for traffic and possibly full parking lots. There is a $5 permit fee and a shuttle from Stevenson, WA, if there are no parking spots available.  

      Drift Creek Falls — An easy trail with a towering waterfall and suspension bridge, this hike brings one out to the Oregon Coast, where there are numerous other lush locations to visit. One will need to purchase a $5 day pass, but that can be done online. Drift Creek Falls is a 75-minute drive from Monmouth toward Lincoln City. 

      Contact the author at howlphotoeditor@wou.edu

      Where a small town meets a big tradition

      Written by: Jaylin Hardin | Sports Editor

      From May 23 – 27, 2024, one of the largest Memorial Day celebrations in the nation took place. Hosted at Riverside Park in Grants Pass, Oregon, a town of roughly 39,000 people, the festivities hosted several vendors and attendees from around the country and the globe.

      Boatnik, as it is fondly known, began in 1959, and has its early beginnings with the Grants Pass Active Club, a non-profit organization focused on giving back to the children of Josephine County. All proceeds from the event go directly to supporting youth programs.

      Originally conceived as a boat race in the 1950s, it has now evolved into a multi-day extravaganza that many in the community say embodies pride and patriotism.

      The festivities began with the annual parade through downtown Grants Pass, with local marching bands, organizations and dignitaries among the participants. The drivers for the hydroplane, sprint and drag boat races also participated in this parade, showing off their vibrant boats that took to the water almost immediately after. This year’s parade theme was “Honoring Our Heroes, a Salute to Service.”

      Two of the most iconic participants of the parade are the Grants Pass Cavemen and the Grants Pass High School — GPHS — marching band. Both have received national recognition, with the GPHS marching band participating in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade almost every year and the Cavemen traveling nationally to spread goodwill and tourism for Josephine County; the Cavemen are an organization that began in 1922 that now works alongside the Active Club. Dressing in animal skins, horsehair wigs and buck teeth, the Cavemen run rampant throughout the parade, “kidnapping” parade viewers and putting them up for display in a handmade, wooden cage. 

      One of the Cavemen’s more iconic moments occurred in the 1940s, when they kidnapped Presidential Nominee Thomas E. Dewey while he was in Oregon for his campaign. The picture of Dewey circulated throughout Europe until it reached Soviet Russia, where news outlets claimed they dressed in this manner to “protest against the cruel and Wall Street-backed church.” Other notable kidnapees include Shirley Temple, Babe Ruth, Henry Ford, John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan and Herbert Hoover, as well as the Oregon congressional delegation, who were once held hostage and harassed on the Senate floor.

      Following the parade, the fun really began, with drag and sprint boat exhibitions and time trials taking place on Saturday and Sunday and the hydroplane boat race, the Tom Rice Memorial Race, taking place on Memorial Day. This year, the sprint boat racers came from USSBA Racing, an organization that participates in sprint races around the globe.

      Taking place alongside these races was a golf shoot-out, carnival, Brewfest and concert, hosting the rock band, Firehouse, as the headliner. Both the shoot-out and the Brewfest occurred on Saturday and Sunday, enticing thousands of visitors to try more than 50 brews and ciders from the region and 64 golfers to try and win the grand prize. 

      The carnival took place Thursday afternoon through Monday night and featured rides and carnival games from Davis Shows Northwest. Vendors in attendance offered a plethora of services, from food and jewelry to art and different physical experiences, including Zorb Water Balls, rock climbing and bungee trampolining.  

      The one event everyone truly looks forward to, however, is the Memorial Day service.

      The ceremony began with a jet flyover from Oregon’s 173rd Fighter Wing, located in Klamath Falls, Oregon. The national anthem then played as a flag was unfurled from Grants Pass’ Caveman Bridge. 

      A pastor from a local church led the ceremony in prayer in memory of fallen soldiers, followed by a moment of silence. Veterans from a local unit gave a 21-gun salute and a wreath and rose petals were floated down the Rogue River, accompanied by a bagpipe playing “Taps.”

      During the roughly 11-minute ceremony, silence fell over the park in honor of fallen soldiers. 

      Attendees and Active Club members both spoke fondly of their time at Boatnik.

      “It’s an event that gathers everyone together far and wide to celebrate the town and the Rogue (Valley) for the new season,” said sophomore Clark Callahan. “I remember puking up an entire deep-fried jumbo pickle, and it is one of the best memories of my life. I love Boatnik.”

      “(Planning) is a year-long process,” said Active Club President, Kent DeRocher. “As soon as Boatnik is over on Monday, we start planning the first week in June for (the) next year’s.” DeRocher was recently elected president of the Active Club for a one-year term but has been a member of the organization since 2003, only a year after he moved to the Grants Pass area. 

      “I love it. I mean, it’s a lot of work… But it’s been fantastic,” DeRocher said. “I met someone that I was really good friends with that was in the Active Club and they brought me in (my) first year I was here… I moved here and I was in the Club and that’s all I know.”

      In my own experiences at Boatnik, I have found nothing but fun and whimsy, as well as a beautiful ceremony honoring fallen soldiers. As a Grants Pass local who has attended Boatnik every year — except 2020 — I think it is an experience everyone should have a chance to enjoy, young or old. 

      “It’s a place that the valley gets to gather, watch the races and (all) the amazing events that go on,” said junior Kat Griggs, who is a Southern Oregon local.” If you haven’t been, put it on your calendar for next year. It’s a great time.”  

      Next year’s Boatnik will take place from May 22 – 26, 2025. For more information on Boatnik visit www.boatnik.com, or if one wishes to explore the Rogue Valley, visit www.visitgrantspass.com. 

      Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

      The power of GEM

      Written by: Taylor Duff | Staff Writer

      Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness is a concept developed by Hugh Van Cuylenburg which, when shortened, is commonly referred to as GEM. Cuylenburg has an Amazon Prime special of the same name where he recounts his journey teaching and volunteering in India and his development of The Resilience Project. 

      Cuylenburg has over 15 years of experience in education, having taught both primary and secondary students. His teaching career was highlighted by a year spent in the Himalayas in the northern region of India. Here, Cuylenburg discovered the purest type of resilience, GEM. Cuylenburg discovered that the people, particularly the children, led relatively stable and happy lives despite a lack of resources. 

      The children were living without running water, electricity or even shoes, yet they were seamlessly happy with their circumstances. Cuylenburg analyzed many things as he toured the community with a student named Stanzin, he expressed gratitude for everything he had, including his crumbling playground. Stanzin told Cuylenburg how grateful he was for the rice he ate — as his food source was available every day. Finally, Stanzin had shoes that many of the other children lack, and he reclaims ‘this’ to show his appreciation. 

      Cuylenburg also stated that children in the community practiced meditation every morning before school. Cuylenburg asked why they were required to participate in meditation, and a supervisor replied, stating it was optional. The children and their families join together for meditation and togetherness whenever they can, unlike other places such as  Cuylenburg’s hometown, Balwyn in Melbourne, Australia, where people struggle immensely with mental health. 

      Cuylenburg’s mission through The Resilience Project was to recount the village’s practices. Gratitude, empathy and mindfulness make for a better and more rewarding life. After 10 years of working with over 1,000 schools, it became clear that this message was an opportunity to collaborate with teachers, kids, parents, employers, community leaders and sports organizations.  

      To practice “GEM,” consider writing once a day in a journal something you are grateful for, whether it is big or small. An example would be a meal you ate, the people you communicate with or your clean water. 

      Empathy is an ability that you exercise regularly to feel for someone. Empathy can also take the form of allowing yourself to experience your emotions, such as taking a break to explore nature or engaging in hobbies. 

      Mindfulness is easy yet simultaneously hard, as technology is such a prevalent thing in our lives, but shutting off the technology even for 10 minutes allows meditation to occur. Mindfulness, such as understanding that technology holds such a space in our lives, allows us to evaluate rather than be distracted. Practicing GEM takes a lot of practice, but, again, to become good at something often requires practice.    



      Contact the author at tduff23@mail.wou.edu 

      Summer bucket list

      Written by: Libby Thoma | Staff Writer

      Bucket lists tend to be a summer essential, but often, online lists become repetitive. Along with this, online bucket list ideas generally require a large sum of money and for the individual to be above 21 years old. Here are some ideas to add that only sometimes require money and can be enjoyed by people under 21.

      Big hole — Dig a big hole in one’s backyard. When it inevitably rains, as it will due to Oregon weather, jump into that giant puddle. One now has their own puddle-swimming pool.

      Costco trip — Dress in a large black cape or trench coat and add some stilts — previous knowledge of stilting is required. Head to Costco and purchase one’s supply of normal groceries. If questions are raised,  explain that the outfit is three children standing in a trench coat stacked atop one another.

      Blasting music — Get a friend or two and go on a drive. Blast embarrassing music, such as Karma by Jojo Siwa, Friday by Rebeca Black or Yummy by Justin Bieber, with the windows rolled down. Head to a populated street where one might know somebody and see who rolls their window up first. Whoever gets embarrassed first pays for the driver’s gas. 

      Ghost hunting — Say hello to one’s local spirit. This can be done by purchasing an Ouija board, pendulum or an FM transmitter. Talking to a local spirit is important and often forgotten about; they get lonely too. 

      Go viral — Go viral on Facebook. This is better than going viral on TikTok because who goes viral on Facebook?

      Make a bucket list — Making a bucket list is important, but make sure it’s interesting. Make it pretty, try using Canva and maybe even add bows or clouds. 

      Summer fun is important after a long and hard school year, and making a bucket list of ideas to ward off boredom is essential to get the most out of the summer. Feel free to use these ideas on a summer bucket list. 




      Contact the author at ethoma23@mail.wou.edu

      The lives of book readers

      Written by: Jaylin Hardin | Sports Editor

      Avid readers have many nicknames: bookworm, book rat and ink drinker being commonplace titles. Whether one is a casual or consistent reader, there is a consensus that books are a lifestyle for many. 

      Countless online book communities have risen in popularity on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and the anonymous message board app, YikYak. These apps have become places where readers of all ages and genres can come together and discuss what they have read. 

      The most famous of these, coined “BookTok,” is a hashtag on TikTok where readers can post book reviews and content, show off their bookshelves and promote merchandise they have purchased or made. It is also common for BookTok to be used as a platform where authors can promote their works. 

      A reader’s favorite part about the lifestyle is, well, reading the books. In an anonymous online poll with 95 participants, 81 percent said their favorite part was reading books. Very few participants’ favorite was discussing or collecting books — only a combined 16 percent of respondents chose either of these options. 

      “I love opening a book and being immersed into a story,” said sophomore Hailey Cook. “I tend to feel strongly about each book I love and I think it makes me enjoy books even more.”

      However, there can be issues within these communities.

      One of the most prominent is the discourse surrounding the author Colleen Hoover, smut in books and what exactly qualifies as a “good book”; often, all three topics are discussed hand in hand.

      Other authors who have come under fire in these discussions include Sarah J. Mass, author of the “A Court of Thorns and Roses,” “Crescent City” and “Throne of Glass” series, and Rebbeca Yarros, author of the “Fourth Wing” series. 

      Maas, Yarros and Hoover have all been accused of “mediocre writing” that glamorizes harmful stereotypes, tropes and relationships.

      However, fans often come to their defenses, stating these books are more like beach reads in the fantasy genre. They believe that the truly harmful books are those that are labeled “Dark Romance,” which often have explicit scenes of violence, assault and abuse, such as “Haunting Adeline” by H.D. Carlton. 

      But, regardless of this discourse, many sections of book communities remain positive. 

      “(I’ve had) positive experiences,” Cook said. “I love when I can have a genuine conversation about a book with other readers and understand why they may think a different way than me.”

      Despite the discourse, book readers connect, creating and turning a hobby into a lifestyle that all can enjoy. 

      Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

      Investing in interships

      Written by: Sierra Porter | Staff Writer

      Internships come in a variety of different formats. Regardless of whether it’s on-campus or off, full internship or micro-internship, paid or for class credit, the benefits of an internship are endless. An internship is a short-term opportunity in specific departments, organizations or businesses that allow students to gain experience they may not acquire in a normal classroom setting. 

      Here at Western, almost every single department has internship opportunities for students to take advantage of: including business, arts, science, education and so much more. 

      The best place to begin if one is interested in an internship is the Center for Professional Pathways page under internships for students. CPP provides students with information and links to resources within their internship program — allowing students to explore the many options Western offers. 

      Western’s site encourages students to take internships as, “Internships can truly enhance students’ education and overall college experience by expanding skill sets, connecting with others and exposure to real-world situations. It is no longer a question of whether or not a student should do an internship during their college careers, but rather how many and where.” 

      Experience comes in all shapes and sizes, and the website offers options for on-campus as well as off-campus internships — working with the community to provide different opportunities for students. Additionally, the site discusses the variety of micro-internships, which are typically short-term and project-based, offering students a new way to gain experience and test their passion in their desired field. No internship opportunity is too big or too small — one just needs to find the internship that is right for them. 

      The CPP website not only provides a link to search for one’s desired internship, but it also provides steps on preparing for that particular search. These steps include knowing onerself, knowing where one wants to work, getting ready to search and starting to search. All of these steps have information, tips and links provided with them, bringing ease to each one. 

      Job searching may be overwhelming, so along with that, they provide an internship search checklist and full guide, allowing the student to break up their search into manageable steps. 

      Why should one intern? Most students, educators and business entrepreneurs receive immense benefits from internships. Completing an internship not only gives a student valuable experience that they can put on their resume, but it also allows them to explore their true passions, interests and who they are as individuals overall. This experience is most often valuable to employers, as nine out of 10 employers say they search for students with internship experience. Not only are they looking for these students, but according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, “Just over 70% of employers end up offering their interns full-time jobs. Almost 80% of students accept these offers.” 

      Still not sure about taking on an internship? Learn about one of Western’s very own art interns, Tati Ala, fourth-year Communications Major who is utilizing the internship programs here on campus. Ala is currently an art gallery intern with the Art Exhibition Crew and also had an internship with Planned Parenthood of the Columbia Willamette previously this year. 

      Ala expressed many things she loved about her experience including, “…how hands-on I get to be with the Art Exhibitions. I was directly involved with planning and setting up the Aloha From Maui exhibit that was set up in April, and as someone who was raised in Hawai’i, I was so happy to be able to be there and see what I could do to respect home and make sure it was given its due diligence.” 

      “Honestly, I’ve learned a lot about myself and how I work and what I would want to go into. With my PPCW internship, I was rotational, so I’d work with different departments and I was able to learn about specific jobs and skill sets that I couldn’t see myself going into, especially along the lines of running numbers and data,” said Ala. 

      Ala says if one can take on an internship they most definitely should. “I think it’s hard to feel like you’re in college and you’re aiming for this one type of job — but especially as someone who is a first-generation college student, I don’t have a lot of access to connections and people who are working in fields I want to go into, so it’s hard to feel secure in what I’m studying. Which is where internships are helpful.” 

      She recommends internships to all students as they are “…a great way to explore paths you didn’t think you would’ve taken, but also to test out what you want from your own future. It’s a really great way to be able to catch a glimpse of what you want for yourself, and take the time to see how you can apply that into your own lives and jobs, not to mention having more experience on a resume,” Ala said. 

      Ala offers some advice for those who choose to take the leap and participate in any internship. “Use Handshake. It’s a lot more helpful and there are so many places that are looking for college students. Keep an eye out for remote positions if you are able to.” 

      Many students juggle many things from other jobs or classes so if one is stressed about this Ala says, “Take advantage of CPP and all their resources, talk to advisors and professors if you can. CPP runs internships every year from winter to spring term, applications open in the fall — keep an eye out and reach out to any professors to see if they know anything as well.” 

      Any internship can provide students, teachers and employers with tremendous opportunities and great experiences. Invest in oneself, invest in an internship.   

      Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

      Advice for newer Art & Design students

      Written by: Quinlan Elise | Photo Editor

      From a Bachelor of Fine Arts student in her last term, here are the things I wish I did starting my first year at Western. Help out one’s future self, and thank me, and oneself, later.

      Photograph pieces — One may not be told this until their final Spring term, but one will need at least one good photo of each finished artwork. Keep a collection of work, and photograph pieces at the end of each term on a flat surface with even lighting. A good camera is ideal, but smartphones do a great job now as well. One should save the photos into albums on one’s phone and have backups on a computer and Google Drive, just in case.

      Creating an Instagram account dedicated to art can make it easier to document work, find shows and connect with other artists. It also becomes a fun digital photo album to look back on and see progress and growth over time.

      Record pieces — Record piece names, dates finished, dimensions, mediums, brief descriptions, featured shows and current locations in a spreadsheet. This sounds like a lot at first, but it will save one time in the future when applying for shows, residencies and other programs. 

      Apply to shows — Even if one doesn’t think their work is “professional” enough, it is still worthwhile to put it out for the world to see. Follow local art organizations and galleries, and make a CaFÉ, or Call for Entry, account to keep an eye out for upcoming shows. Submit work to the Northwest Passage, Western’s Art and Literature Magazine, for a chance to be published. Anything one can add to one’s resume is worth the effort.

      Make connections — One of the best things about Western is its small class sizes. There are so many opportunities to get to know fellow artists through shared classes and mediums. The professors tend to be wonderful people and happy to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them. 

      After graduating, it will be much harder to find a place where one can meet people who will look at their work with an artistic, knowledgeable eye. A regular meeting of artists to critique and bounce ideas off each other is an incredibly valuable resource. Connections are so important to both personal and professional growth and future endeavors.

      Try all of the mediums offered — Even if one has a preferred medium now, there are so many fun classes to try in the Art & Design program and beyond. One may find a new passion, and one’s overall creativity and art practice will improve by learning new things elsewhere.

      Additionally, getting familiar with digital elements like Adobe, Procreate, photography, design and editing is very helpful for the art business.

      Actually go to classes — Contrary to what people may tell one about other subjects, it is vital to go to classes in person. Studio classes provide beneficial practice time, and one’s art will improve with more time focused on it. One will receive much more valuable feedback and make stronger connections as well.

      Take lots of other pictures — One should keep an album in their phone of things that interest them. Having a special folder for references and inspiration is helpful when one feels like they are out of ideas or drained from a heavy workload.

      Keep pieces safe — Make portfolios and boxes from cardboard; use plastic bags; find storage solutions. Everyone’s art is important, as is saving progress. 

      Display one’s art in living spaces. This will create a more personal, inspirational and motivational home.

      Use free resources — Check out an iPad, camera and other equipment from Hamersly Library, if interested. Utilize the Copy Center, Writing Center, Student Health and Counseling Center, Food Pantry, Peter Courtney Health and Wellness Center and other programs. Apply to campus art shows; send work to the Northwest Passage; ask friends for help and offer help in return.

      Enjoy oneself — Make sure to take a step back from time to time. College is hard, and art classes have heavy workloads, but people and their art grow so much during their time in school. Don’t stress too much about being good at things right away. Trust oneself to get better over time and one will find that they will. Keep an open mind and be open to opportunities for growth. Appreciate one’s surroundings, friends and the fact that one can take art classes in college. By having courage, confidence and humility, one can get far in life.

      Contact the author at howlphotoeditor@wou.edu

      An interview with Crystal Ross

      Written by: Gretchen Sims | Editor-in-Chief

      The first face students see when walking into the Student Health and Counseling Center is often Medical Receptionist, Crystal Ross, always donning an earnest, welcoming smile. Her friendly demeanor fits right in with the center — as if she’s always been there — but what many students don’t realize is that it took a lot to get there.

      While Ross is best known for her work at the front desk of Western’s Student Health and Counseling Center, she spent many years working in the field before settling down at Western.

      “Well, I met my husband in 1997, and we were both working in the same company in Dallas. The economy was a little unstable and the person who owned the company was selling it and so I told my husband, ‘If we’re both here when this place goes down, or goes under, because I’m pretty sure it’s going to, we’re gonna be in trouble,’” Ross said. 

      Ross then made the ultimate decision to go to school for Medical Billing and Coding. She went to a trade school for a year — working graveyard shifts at the company with her husband and going to school during the day. 

      After receiving her certification in Medical Billing and Coding, Ross took her internship, or practicum, at West Salem Family Practice. When a receptionist position opened up, she decided to apply.

      “It was like a step, a foot in the door, and within three months, they had an opening in their business office so I ended up getting to go into the business office and use that Medical Billing and Coding knowledge that I had. And, so I was there for nine years, and a friend of mine, who was also a coworker, she had come to Western and was working in the Student Health and Counseling Center and she’s like ‘I think you’d really like it here, they have a receptionist position open; you should apply,’” said Ross.

      Ross felt that there was nowhere to go in her job at West Salem; she felt like she couldn’t move up and had no room to grow anymore, so she decided to take the opening at Western.

      “I guess the rest is history. They told me when I interviewed there would be potential for me to do some Medical Billing — that they were trying to get that started — and I have done some Medical Billing and Coding here. I used to have an office in the back, here, and then when COVID happened, and we lost some of our employees, I went back up front, and I feel like I really just thrive there,” Ross said.

      Ross has come to love her home here at Western. 

      “My favorite part about (Western) is definitely the students… definitely the students. I love working with the students, I love getting to know them. I try really hard to remember things about students and what they tell me.”

      Unlike some larger schools, Western has the unique privilege, in part, due to its size, of fostering strong and consistent communication between departments. 

      “…I also really like that I can reach out to someone in other departments and know that they’re going to do their best to help me. Whether it’s helping me personally, or helping me help a student, I just think that Western being as small as it is, we really do well at helping each other help the students,” said Ross. 

      Ross loves animals. At home, she has two rabbits, four cats, three dogs, a lizard, a snake, two horses, six ducks and 12 chickens, so, naturally, she feels passionate about the SHCC’s local squirrel. 

      “Oh my gosh,” said Ross “I love the squirrel. I love all of the squirrels on campus, I just think they’re such a fun, neat animal and so I’ll see this little guy hop around on the sidewalk in front of our building, you know, of course, in and out of the trash can. I call him Benny… I just thought it was a cute name and… I gave him food one day… ooh I know… I gave him a little peanut. I know, I don’t make a habit of that, because I don’t think they really want you feeding them, but… so yeah, Benny hangs out, I see him every day, running around, in front of the Student Health and Counseling Center — he’s our little mascot,” Ross said. 

      Working with students is a passion of Ross’s: she loves every one of them here at Western, but oftentimes, at the front desk of the SHCC, Ross sees them at their lowest. Ross is widely regarded for her optimism and friendly and welcoming personality, and while it’s not always easy, Ross always manages to keep a beaming smile on her face. 

      “I had a pretty traumatic childhood myself, and once I got away from the trauma, and I realized the things this person had said about me were not true — it was my ex-stepdad — I just thought, I need to be a cycle breaker, I need to be someone who cares about other people and shows that I care about other people,” Ross said.

      Ross attests to the importance of putting her best foot forward when she walks through the doors of the SHCC each morning.

      “My goal when someone walks through our doors is for them to have a positive experience because oftentimes they aren’t feeling well. So, if just smiling and being kind can help them feel better, that is my goal. A friendly face can make all the difference,” said Ross. 

      “I always tell my kids that, even if I’m having the worst day, none of my students are ever going to know — that I’m having a bad day — because I need to be the person that students can come to and know that they’re going to be taken care of, regardless of how my day is going. I want to be that positive light, I want to show people that I care about them, so I just think that I come to work every day knowing that I am impacting so many people’s lives. That just helps me keep that positive attitude, because I know that everybody has things that they’re going through and sometimes, all you need is one person to be kind to you and that can change your whole entire day — it could change your whole entire mood — and so if I can be the person who is the bright light for that person’s day, then that’s what I want to do,” Ross continued. 

      Besides simply being a bright light to the students here at Western, “I also have the privilege of helping these young adults learn how to navigate the healthcare system, which can be overwhelming for anyone. A lot of students are far from home and need guidance. I feel honored to be part of helping them grow and learn. I am a mom, so I think about how I would want my children to be treated,” said Ross.

      Ross has several tattoos ranging from her first, which is of her favorite Disney character, Eeyore, to a Gemini astrological sign as a memorial to her father. 

      “Then I have one more, it’s on my chest here, so I was a teenager in the 90s, so 90s grunge and alternative music, that is my jam — that’s my favorite thing. My most favorite band in the world is Soundgarden, which was actually my very first concert when I was 18, and Chris Cornell, who is the lead singer of Soundgarden, completed suicide about almost seven years ago. That was really hard for me because my childhood was… traumatic, and music was my outlet. If I was having a bad day, or just needed to be calmed down, music was always my outlet.”

      Ross has had the tattoo since Cornell passed away.

      “This, here, is Chris Cornell’s autograph, and then this is the lyric from the song ‘Black Hole Sun’ and it says ‘No one sings like you anymore,’ and I thought that was appropriate because no one will sing like him, and that was a song that he wrote,” Ross said. 

      Ross loves all of her students — “Yes, I refer to all of you as my students,” — and wants them to feel seen, heard and validated. She aims to make the SHCC as welcoming to students as possible. 

      “My goal when someone walks through our doors is for them to have a positive experience because oftentimes they aren’t feeling well. So, if just smiling and being kind can help them feel better, that is my goal. A friendly face can make all the difference,” Ross said. 

      With all of that love for students, Ross wanted to leave them with a piece of advice.

      “Always believe in yourself because even if you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, it will get better. It will get better. There are people out there that care about you and want you to succeed. Sometimes you don’t always know who those people are and they’ll come into your life when it’s the right time,” said Ross. 

      The SHCC is a fantastic resource for Western students. Whether it is to just stop by for a piece of candy, to get some studying done or to, of course, make a counseling or doctor’s appointment, Ross wants students to feel welcome and encourages them to swing by at any time. 

      “I know that it’s my job, but it’s also my honor and my privilege to serve the students. I know it’s a job, you get paid for it, but it’s definitely something that I enjoy doing and I love coming to work every day and knowing I am making a difference.” 



      Contact the author at howleditorinchief@mail.wou.edu

      What to think about before getting a tattoo

      Rylie Horrall  | Lifestyle Editor

      Tattoos are a commitment that someone should be sure about getting, and can be an overall fun experience to have. However, there are some essential things to keep in mind before and during the time a person gets a tattoo.

      Staying hydrated should definitely be kept in mind when getting inked. Firstly, when the body is hydrated, it will take to the ink more effectively, so overall it could be best for the final look. Moreover, staying hydrated can make the process less painful overall. From the day before to the day of, drink plenty of water, and remember to bring some for during the appointment.

      Eating something that is filling is important as it reduces the likelihood of becoming lightheaded or passing out during the tattooing process. The body’s blood sugar will be raised and more prepared for the stamina and energy needed for an appointment. In addition, the body’s pain tolerance will be higher on a full stomach versus an empty one. If the tattoo will take a while to complete, consider bringing something to eat during a break as well.

      Avoid drinking an alcoholic beverage the day of a tattoo session. Some people may drink beforehand as an alternative to taking painkillers, but alcohol can thin a person’s blood, which could lead to bleeding more easily during the inking process. On top of that, it can also thin the ink, which could lead to an unpleasant and unwanted final result. It’s best to avoid drinking the day before, so there isn’t anything lingering in the body.

      With that said, don’t take painkillers before getting a tattoo either. Painkillers like Advil and Ibuprofen also thin the blood, which will lead to similar issues that alcohol has. Acetaminophen may potentially be fine to take, but should be discussed with the artist beforehand. It’s best to avoid these as well the prior day and the day of the appointment.

      Dress for comfort over style; the tattooing process can potentially take a long time to complete, so sitting in sweatpants may be a better idea for the long haul. They also need to be looser, depending on where the tattoo is being placed. A baggier shirt is better for a rib tattoo than a form fitting one, or shorts and capris over leggings and jeans for tattoos on legs. In addition, wearing something dark will prevent any ink or blood stains from retaining.

      When planning for the day of, make sure enough time is set aside for the session to avoid any rush — whether that’s rushing the tattooing process, which could be detrimental to the final result, or feeling pressure to be on time to a previous engagement. It’s best to feel as relaxed as possible, so managing time is one way to relieve tension. Practicing various breathing exercises during the tattooing is another way to help with relaxation.

      Finally, be sure to research the tattoo artist before picking one. It’s best to find one who has a good portfolio that has a style that’s liked and maybe pertains to the desired tattoo — such as picking an artist who specializes in lettering for someone who wants a quote tattoo. If they offer a consultation, it would be good to meet with them and fully discuss the idea.

       

      Contact the author at rhorrall17@wou.edu

      Photo courtesy of Emily Hedges

      Finding time in a busy college schedule

      Written by: Gretchen Sims | Editor-in-Chief

      One of the most difficult aspects of being a new college student is learning to work within a set schedule. From elementary school to high school, classes have always been set in stone — 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for most students. However, come college, doors are opened up for one to set their desired class times — classes at Western are offered from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

      Often, students will have one to three classes a day and sometimes won’t have a class at all. This opens up endless opportunities throughout the week, but it is a challenging adaptation for some. 

      While it is handy to have the ability to organize one’s schedule around work, one’s social life and individual interests, it also brings forth its own set of unique challenges. Not having a structured schedule leaves it up to the individual to find time to do assignments, study for exams or do important classwork — not to mention carving out time for practicing hobbies or engaging in self-care. 

      Thankfully, there are some tips and tricks that I, a graduating senior, have learned along the way that have helped me navigate a jam-packed schedule.

      Look at your week/month ahead of time — Something that has helped me is taking a broader look at my schedule. Tackling assignments and work daily can be daunting, but stepping back and seeing everything one has to do that week is crucial. In doing so, one can plan to ensure that assignments are not procrastinated right up to the due date.

      Invest in a whiteboard calendar and some sticky notes — I love using my whiteboard calendar because it’s right where I have to see it. I have placed it strategically so that when I walk into my room, I have to address my responsibilities for the day. Additionally, I have my whole week’s assignments planned out on sticky notes so I know exactly when I have carved out time to do them — this helps avoid procrastination. 

      Make sure you are leaving time for self-care — Between work, school and one’s social life, it can seem impossible to step back and take a few moments for oneself. However, burnout is rampant among college students, so it is crucial to foster a great relationship with oneself. This can even just come in the form of waking up 30 minutes earlier to do a skincare routine. 

      Start a planner — If one still finds themselves procrastinating or surprised by deadlines, writing due dates in Google Calendar might be helpful. This planning method is useful because Google Calendar sends out text alerts which I have found useful for pulling myself out of doom scrolling.

      Contact the author at howleditorinchief@wou.edu

      Sidney Spencer on news reporting

      Written by: Liberty Miller | Lifestyle Editor

      Content warning: this article contains mentions of homicide and shootings. 

      Sidney Spencer is a 2021 graduate from the University of Alabama and a current news reporter on CBS Channel 42, based out of Birmingham, Alabama. The Howl was able to get an exclusive interview with Spencer regarding her career, experiences in the field and words of advice she may have for Western students wanting to get into broadcasting and news reporting. 

      When asked about her upbringing and what brought Spencer into news broadcasting, she answered, “I’m from Cleveland, Ohio, and grew up in the midwest, but my family is from the South so after I graduated high school in 2016, we moved to Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Prior to me attending and graduating from the University of Alabama, I went to Western Kentucky University for a year and a half or so and ended up transferring to the U of A.” 

      “To describe me, I would say I’m very shy, I’m not the typical reporter, I’m not this overly extroverted person, sometimes I don’t even like to talk which is funny for a reporter. But I’m very shy, very goofy, very fun, and my humor is a little off sometimes — I find anything funny and I tell people that, that’s another characteristic about myself that people find funny because I don’t take anything serious. To some people, that might be bad but I don’t know. I find humor in everything, but still very shy and in person, super soft-spoken, when I’m talking to people they say ‘Huh? What are you saying?’ and that’s something I’m still working on,” said Spencer.

      “I work at CBS42, here in Birmingham. This is my second station, so I’m still kind of new to the industry three years in. My first station was in Evansville, Indiana. As soon as I graduated college in 2016 from the University of Alabama, I accepted a job at 44 News in Evansville. I signed a two-year contract — worked hard, and got out –- and now I’m here in Birmingham. My one year here will be June 12,” said Spencer. 

      Spencer went on to discuss what she experienced growing up and how she became inspired to pursue broadcasting as a career. 

      “I grew up just watching the news because me and my family are very close-knit, we would just sit at the table or in the living room watching television together. Our family was a family that would just watch the news, so I grew up watching Fox 8 and Channel 19, and I would see them and being super shy, I still thought that it was cool. I would see how they would show their personality, and it was kind of hard for me to show personality so seeing that, it was almost like they were forced to show who they are. I kind of just wanted to see if that would bring it out of me,” Spencer said. 

      Additionally, she added that she experienced a pivotal moment while watching a reality television series. “I had a moment, I was watching Basketball Wives in middle school, and I can’t remember her name, but she had long brunette hair and she was talking about getting into broadcasting. I was like, what is that? I remember watching the episode, and I went over to the computer in the kitchen and typed broadcasting. It came up as being a reporter and I was thinking ‘Oh, that is what I want to be.’”

      Spencer then touched on challenges people can face in her career path. “This industry is very vain, so you may face some adversities when you get into the business. Appearance is a big thing. I’m gonna keep it real — sometimes if you look a certain way you might get up higher and become a favorite. I probably have, I wouldn’t say gained anything, but in a sense, some people might look at me and say she may have gotten a position because of the way she looks or because she’s more poised, or something in that nature, but I will say this career is very vain.” said Spencer.

      Spencer’s typical day is busy, with many work-related tasks transcending the hours she clocks in and out. “I work night-side, which is a shift that I’ve pretty much always worked. So I come in at 2 p.m., but I wake up around like 10 p.m. to do my makeup and hair, which is exhausting too sometimes. I usually spend around an hour, and if I don’t already have story ideas from the day before or thought of, or texts from sources or anything, I sit and try to find some stories that I could do. I’ll sometimes watch national stories and see if I can localize it, or look at my phone and look on Facebook. We’re required to at least have two story ideas. Usually, everything needs to be a lead story, but sometimes we can do fluffy pieces or people and enterprise stories. I come into work around 1:50 p.m., sit at my desk and look over what I had written down. I go over to our conference table, we all sit down and have our pitch meeting -– we have two producers, two photographers, a news director, a meteorologist and two anchors. So all of us have to pitch stories.”

      At Spencer’s current station, CBS 42, she went into depth about how pitches are chosen at the conference table. “Sometimes, my stories don’t get picked up, because news directors have their own view of what news is, and usually the news director just says ‘no, I don’t want that.’ They’ll usually have their own stories and pitches that they want in mind, and they’ll just assign us to a story — if it’s an event, then I’ll sometimes make calls, and ask if there’s anyone we can talk to. Usually, they say yes and we can get all of that lined up. If it’s a story that they want us to pursue we’ll then have to make calls and just call around to the people that we need to talk to. Whenever we get our stories together, what sticks, we’ll go out, and I have a photographer that I’ll go out with to shoot the interviews. We’re required to at least have two to three interviews within our packages. We come back to the station or stay out in the field, depending on how far we are from the station. We’ll edit and write out scripts, and then before we submit our package, we need to have our scripts in by 9:15 p.m. After scripts, I edit everything, put it together, and it needs to be on the rundown by 9:45 – 9:50 p.m. Our photographers set us up and we do the live shot. Whatever our package is, we have to cut aside a bit of our piece for the morning, and then we also upload it onto our video platform, and we also have to write our web articles. We have a web team that looks over our articles in the morning and makes some tweaks, to make it more professional. I usually don’t finish until 10:50 p.m. –- but it’s nonstop work, a 24-hour thing, even though we don’t really get paid for 24 hours.”

      Spencer has covered a vast array of topics as an on-site reporter, working on topics varying from sports to community projects. She also speaks on difficult subjects including homicide investigations, crime and vigils. When asked about how she works with potentially troubling stories, Spencer stated, “Personally, I’m not super religious but I am very spiritual. I’m a Christian, so I pray every day and I pray whenever I’m going into a hard story. I ask God to just help me to make the people that I’m talking to feel better or to help them get through the situation and just put my feelings aside with it. With that though, I will say I’ve done a lot of shootings — I’ve witnessed somebody get murdered at my last station, I’ve been around situations where the police shot at animals right next to me, and I almost got shot. Being in this industry will make you a little bit insensitive at times — so with that comes, at times when you’re in a scary situation or a tough story, it’s not healthy, (you will) mentally just take yourself out of it or just pretend like it’s not happening. When I do hard stories, sometimes it becomes too much at that moment, and I usually tell the photographer that I need a moment. If it doesn’t hit me at the moment, it hits me a few days later. I usually go into it praying, and ask God to help me to not get too emotional, but still be empathetic and understanding of the situation. But with that, also asking for me to be a blessing to the people who are actually living that, and help them out in some way. I’ve done shootings back-to-back, and murders back-to-back, going to vigils back-to-back, and I just think, let me just try to get this done, and try to be a blessing to the people that I’m talking to. Then once the weekend comes around, I think, that was a hard week. I don’t know if I’m coping with it healthily. As news reporters, we’re not directly affected like those in the situation, but we are on the scene, right there with the first responders. As I said, at my last station, I witnessed somebody get shot and killed right in front of my face, and in the moment I had to walk away – it’s not normal. A lot of us journalists and reporters are trying to learn how to cope with the situation. I have coworkers that I talk to and friends in the industry that I talk to all the time. I had a friend who worked at a competitor station to my last job, and she was there too during the shooting situation. We talked about it together and she took it a little harder at the moment, and I don’t think it hit me until a few days later. We just bond — I don’t know if it’s a trauma bond — not just over the tough stories but just the industry in general, and we just talk about the amount of work that we have to do with the pay that we have to deal with sometimes. If we didn’t love it though, we wouldn’t be doing it, because life is way too short to continuously be doing something that you don’t like or you aren’t happy with.”

      Spencer also gave advice to Western students who aspire to pursue a career in news and broadcasting. 

      “I would say work hard, and nowadays, it doesn’t seem like it but hard work pays off. Do your research and don’t let anyone discourage you if you want to get into TV because pretty much anybody can do it. I don’t want to say everybody can do it but if you work hard, and if you really have a passion for wanting to be in broadcasting and journalism you can do it. Every day is not smooth – I hear no at least six times a day and you have to have thick skin with that. If the story works out, that is good but sometimes stories will fall through. I’ve had two or three stories fall through in one day, and it happens. You have to have tough skin to get through that. Don’t let anyone tell you that you have to look a certain way or be a certain way. With that, you have to want to be a voice for people who may not have one. That is ultimately what we are, we work for the community, and we’re not doing this for ourselves. It may come across as reporters just wanting to look pretty on TV, but that is not the case. You have to have a passion for talking to people, for one, because you’re talking to people every day, and then you have to want to tell their stories. You have to learn that you’re not always going to be liked. You’re going to get pushback, especially when you’re telling controversial stories, or you’re telling stories of people that don’t have a voice. You have to be willing to speak up for them because nobody else will.” 





      Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

      Fruit pizza

      Written by: Hannah Field | News Editor

      FRUIT PIZZA

      From start to finish: 1 hour

      Yields: 13.5” x 18.5” sheet pan

      2 1/2 Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough

      16 oz Cream cheese

      1-2 cup Sugar
      ½ teaspoon Vanilla (optional)

      ½ cup Fruit jam/jelly (optional)

      3-5 cups Assorted fruit of choice

      This recipe may easily be altered to fit different preferred portions by eyeballing ingredients and tweaking instructions to best suit the baker’s needs.

      Take Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough and flatten into an oven-safe pan or container until covering the desired area without being too thin or thick. Cook in the oven at 350 degrees until the edges are golden or for 15-20 minutes. Take out and cool. 

      In one large bowl, add cream cheese while the dough cooks. Additional cream cheese may be added if needed. Optionally, add vanilla to the bowl. Add sugar to taste until cream cheese is on the sweet side and use a mixer on “WHIP” setting until cream cheese is fluffy (Note: cream cheese may be drippy if cream cheese is of the Whipped variety, but will not affect tastiness of the recipe).

      Slice fruit of choice into small bite-sized pieces. Blueberries, raspberries, blackberries or other small fruits do not need to be sliced. If fruit is ripe and tends to brown quickly, swash lightly in lemon juice, reducing browning over time.

      Once dough is cool, smear the sweet cream cheese mixture on top of dough, covering the whole surface except the crust. Cream cheese may be of any thickness on top. Add mixed fruit into dish, gently wiggling fruit into cream cheese mixture. If desired, jelly or jam may be drizzled on top or added on top of cream cheese mixture before the fruit.

      Cool dish in the refrigerator until no longer warm. Serve up at a family picnic or have after dinner — this versatile dessert is a delectable spring snack.

      Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

      Aim for Pluto

      Written by: Hannah Field | News Editor

      When prompted with the question “Where did the name Dr. Spice come from?” Nishant Vashisht — the Dr. Spice in question — asked a follow-up: “Do you want the real story or the fake story?”

      The fake story: “That’s because I’m the life of the party, man. That’s why they call me Spice. The real story is in eighth grade. Me and my friends, we were a bunch of losers… I was like, we gotta create nicknames for each other… and I remember my mom would take this road all the time for work. Spicer Drive. And I don’t know why, but something clicked in me.”

      At the time, Dr. Spice was merely a joke. He put it in his Instagram handle, and eventually, it spread to YouTube and TikTok, where he would amass over one hundred thousand followers.

      During junior high, Vashisht regarded that version of Dr. Spice as his outlet or alter ego.

      “Dr. Spice was everything that Nishant Vishasht couldn’t be,” said Vashisht. “Dr. Spice started off as being a rapper, making music.”

      At the time, the aspiring motivational speaker was being bullied for his low weight by his peers, a devastating hit to his self-esteem.

      Now, Vashisht is a full-time content creator, working on building a personal brand and marketing himself. On top of that, he gained weight through proper means to add muscle, now brandishing a satisfactory frame and a toppling amount of confidence.

      On a daily basis, Vashisht wakes up at around 5 a.m. before taking a cold shower, working on video editing for a few hours, running to the library to read educational, motivational or self-help books and then visiting the gym, one of his favorite places.

      “Anywhere I go to, there’s young guys coming up to me and saying, ‘Hey, Spice, let me tell you about what’s happening.’ And they’re super happy to see me. Sometimes I reflect and it’s like I became a beacon of hope to some of these guys,” said Vashisht.

      Vashisht had become a bit of a local celebrity at his alma mater, West Albany High School, where he graduated in 2022. During his senior year, Vashisht organized a motivational club where he would speak to up to fifty students, encouraging them to “aim for Pluto.”

      “Aim for Pluto — I was doing a speech and I had maybe ten, fifteen people there, and we were talking about ambition. I just said this. Everybody aims for the moon, but I said f–k that,” said Vashisht. “Why would I limit myself? My vision is to be big. So I’m going to aim for Pluto, because if I fail, I’ll land on a different planet.”

      To him, Pluto represents being “the underdog.”

      “People always thought of me as stupid, or talentless… if you look at my story, you look at everything I dealt with. It takes brutal determination,” said Vashisht, referring to times when he was treated with blatant disrespect or racism due to his Indian heritage. “My story is for the underdogs. It’s to inspire the weird guys, the lonely guys. (I’m saying) hey, you can be better. You are the master of your fate. I feel like a lot of young guys resonate with me because I went from being like a stereotypical loser to now being the Chad.”

      With Vashisht having clarified that he is not a psychologist, he speaks a lot on the human condition, especially from the perspective of a man. “I major in bro science,” said Vashisht, often divulging into male inspiration, strength, confidence and more in his lectures.

      His speeches are mostly freestyled, with inspiration drawn from various sources. Vashisht looks to his parents for guidance — his hardworking father who was often away at work during Vashisht’s childhood — and his various teachers and educators who helped encourage and push him.

      One event, however, pushed Vashisht further. “I got interviewed for the (high school newspaper) and the (principal) said, ‘Oh, it’s nice that you have your little club going on,’ and she said it like it was a joke. I’m the type of guy where I’m very much motivated by proving people wrong. So I was like screw it, you know what? I’m gonna prove you wrong.”

      In his words, it felt like she wasn’t taking him as seriously as he expected. “I deserve that respect,” he said.

      After that, he worked even harder to collect a vast audience for his next motivational speech by contacting people he didn’t even know to attend via flyers and online postings. “I ended up getting sixty-eight people, but my highest at the time was forty. I was just like, damn, I did this… that’s one of my proudest moments to this day. I almost got seventy people to listen to me speak for five minutes.”

      Vashisht has continued to aim for Pluto. “What aiming for Pluto means in the simplest terms is there is no limit to my ambition.”

      Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

      Easy workouts for the gym or at home

      Written by: Jaylin Hardin | Sports Editor

      Unsure of where to start at the gym? Looking for a new workout routine? Then look no further. The exercises below can be done by anyone of any fitness level at home or the gym. Organized by which part of the body it works, one is sure to find a new exercise to include in a gym routine.

      Legs: exercises that isolate quads, glutes and hamstrings

      Bulgarian Split Squats — This isolates the quadricep muscle group. Begin by standing a few feet in front of a bench or raised platform, or if one is at home consider using a couch or chair. Rest one foot behind on the raised surface, with the top of the foot facing down. Lower the body into a lunge, keeping the torso upright, until the front thigh is almost parallel to the ground, ensuring the knee doesn’t go past the toes. Push through the front heel to return to the starting position, and repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch legs. If at the gym, try holding dumbbells in both hands.

      Hamstring Hip Bridges — Lie on the back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift hips off the ground until the body forms a straight line from shoulders to knees. Hold this position briefly, then lower the hips back to the ground. Continue for the desired number of repetitions. At the gym, try doing this exercise with a medicine ball or weight plate resting on the lower abdomen. For added resistance at home, try adding a band just above the knees to provide tension. 

      Pistol Squat — This works the glutes and quadriceps. Stand on one leg with the other leg extended in front. Lower the body down by bending the standing leg, keeping the extended leg straight in front as you lower. Lower until the thigh is parallel to the ground and push back up to the starting position. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch legs. If at the gym, hold a dumbbell in the hand opposite from the extended leg. 

      Arms: exercises that isolate triceps, biceps and shoulders

      Bicep Curls — This exercise requires equipment. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand or an EZ curl — wavy — barbell, arms straight down by the sides of the body. Keeping upper arms still, bend the elbows to lift the dumbbells or barbell towards the shoulders. Squeeze the biceps at the top of the movement, and slowly lower the dumbbells or bar back to the starting position. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions. If one doesn’t have equipment, try using soup cans or milk cartons. 

      Pike Push-Ups — Start in a push-up position with hips raised high, this position is the same as the downward dog yoga pose. Lower the body towards the ground by bending the arms at the elbows. Push back up to the starting position. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions. This exercise targets the shoulders, chest and triceps.

      Tricep Dips — Sit on the edge of a bench or chair with hands gripping the edge, before sliding off the bench, supporting the weight with arms. Lower the body by bending the elbows until the upper arms are parallel to the ground. Push back up to the starting position, straightening the arms. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

      Core: exercises that isolate the abdominal muscles

      Flare-ups — Lie on the back with legs straight and arms extended overhead. Lift legs and upper body off the ground simultaneously, forming a “V” shape with the body, reaching hands towards the toes. Lower legs and upper body back to the starting position, repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

      Crunchy Frogs — Sit on the floor with legs bent and feet off the ground, arms extended straight in front. At the same time, extend the legs out wide and bring arms back.

      Bring legs and arms back to the starting position, hugging knees to chest.

      Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

      Russian Twists — Sit on the floor with knees bent, heels touching the ground and torso leaning back slightly. Lift feet off the ground, balancing on the tailbone, and hold hands together in front of the chest. Twist the torso to one side, bringing hands towards the floor beside the hip before returning to the center and twisting to the other side. Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions. When performing this exercise at the gym, hold a medicine ball or dumbbell when twisting.

      These exercises can be performed by anyone of any level of physical fitness and modified if they are too simple or too difficult. Whether one is a beginner or well-versed in the gym world, these exercises are sure to be a hit when it comes to building muscle strength. 

      Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

      Western Oregon University

      Facebook   Instagram   X  YouTube

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

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

      Tools

      Campus Maps
      Canvas
      Find People
      Portal
      WOU Email
      Technical Support

      Resources

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

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

      Accessibility    Public Records    Privacy    Student Consumer Information

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