Mount Hood

Stitch Closet reopens

Western’s Stitch Closet makes a grand re-opening for spring term

Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

The Stitch Closet on campus continues to provide students with the basic human resources needed for graduation since its opening in 2021. Despite the challenges the organization has faced in recent times, they will continue to persevere and thrive. 

In February of winter term, the Stitch Closet found itself having to close temporarily due to the lack of equipment needed to care for and clean their stock. However, with the help of tenacious volunteers and the Western community, the Stitch Closet was able to make a valiant re-opening — and it’s bigger and better than ever.

Contributing by volunteering for the Stitch Closet worked in an orderly, collaborative fashion. Students wishing to help could do so by signing up for a designated appointment slot, where they were able to come in and retrieve bags of clothing to take home to wash in their own space.

“It really took a village,” said Sofie Fashana, second-year student at Western and creator of the Stitch Closet. “At some point we ran out of clothes to distribute and people were still coming in because they signed up to pick up clothes.” 

Fashana also gave thanks to Katherine Schmidt, professor of writing and Writing Center director at Western. Schmidt helped immensely with the process by sending out emails to the Western community and collecting volunteers to not only wash and dry clothes, but also to help fold, sort and organize them so they were ready to be on display.

“We had 48 people sign up within 48 hours,” said Fashana on the number of volunteers to help sort and display clothes. “That is amazing.”

In the end, the community effort that it took to reopen the Stitch Closet turned out to mean much more for students as it also served the purpose of forming bonds.

“There was a lot of friendship that was built among that interaction … We saw something a lot bigger than ourselves,” said Fashana.

The Stitch Closet is co-located with the Food Pantry in the Welcome Center on the Western campus, room 165. Although the Stitch Closet is open, it is not currently accepting donations. Students can visit the Stitch Closet’s instagram at @stitchcloset.wou to remain updated on future operating hours for spring term and on when donations open up to the community, as well as volunteering opportunities.

Free Coffee Offered in the Library

Free coffee takes the place of the Press cafe in the library

Mollie Herron | News Editor

When studying in the Hamersly Library, many students notice the run down cafe in the far north side of the first floor. The Press cafe was a place for students in the library to order coffee, pastries and sandwiches, but has been closed for quite some time. Because of this closure, there are limited places for students to buy coffee on campus. 

“It’s a funding issue, it’s not that anybody wanted the cafe to close,” Chelle Batchelor, dean of library and academic innovation said. “In fact, all of us on campus would really love to have it reopen.”

Due to the decrease in the number of students on campus, Hamersly Library does not have the funds to support the cafe. Fortunately, Caffe Allegro is still open and only a short walk away from the library. For students looking to get their caffeine fix after Caffe Allegro’s closing hour of 2 p.m., the library will be offering free coffee from 2 – 6 p.m. every week Monday through Friday.

Unfortunately, the free coffee cannot be given out until after Caffe Allegro closes so that there is no competition between the two. As much as everyone wishes free coffee could be offered at all times, there is the assumption that it would slow business and cause a negative result for both locations.

For those looking to support the library and help with upkeep as well as support future endeavors, donations to the Hamersly Library Dean’s Fund are always welcomed. These donations will help keep the library clean as well as provide funds to buy new materials and support the existing ones. With more donations, the library will also get the opportunity to award more scholarships to students that have earned it.

Donating is encouraged because it helps keep campus accessible and up to date for students, but if it is really only for the coffee, that is perfectly acceptable too.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Looking for a place to get your booster?

Places you can get your booster shot in and around Monmouth

Mollie Herron | News Editor

Western hosted a vaccine clinic on Feb. 11 at Gentle House to give students who needed it their COVID-19 booster shot. They offered Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines for any student who met the requirements for each.

For students who have not yet received their booster and are still looking for where to do so, here are some local vaccine clinics that will be popping up soon.

On Feb. 25 the Oregon Child Development Coalition will be hosting a clinic from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Also on Feb. 25 Western will be hosting a clinic at Gentle House from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. There will be another clinic at Gentle House on March 4 from 2 – 6 p.m. 

If those times are still hard to make, the best thing to do is schedule an appointment at a local pharmacy. Some popular spots include Walgreens, Rite Aid or Safeway. New clinics and events are being announced every day, so keep an eye out for what works with individual schedules.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

Mask Mandate Soon to Be Lifted in Oregon

Oregon’s mask mandate may be lifted earlier than expected, according to OHA

Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

Big news may be coming to Oregon in response to recent COVID-19 safety updates. According to a data scientist at Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon could be reaching their threshold for lifting the indoor mask mandate very soon.

As of now, Washington and New Mexico have become some of the latest states to drop their COVID mask mandate for indoor and school environments. The Oregon Health Authority has the current mask mandate in Oregon scheduled to be lifted on March 31. However, according to various sources, this day might arrive sooner than expected. Some even speculate that it may occur before St. Patrick’s Day. 

The news became live after an observance of omicron cases and hospitalizations dropping across the state, as well as nationwide. As a result, the United States may no longer be considered to be in a state of “constant crisis.” 

According to OHA, in order for the mask mandate to be lifted, the state needs to be at 400 or fewer total cases of COVID hospitalizations. As of Feb. 22, hospitalizations have fallen to below 600 cases in Oregon, beating the rough estimate for March 4 by a week and a half.

“OHA will continue to monitor the trend and consider lifting the indoor mask requirement for public places earlier than March 31 if the number of hospitalizations decreases to 400 earlier,” said Oregon’s state epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger. 

If the statewide mask mandate were to be lifted, it would mean the removal of masks for all regardless of vaccination status. Before this mask mandate is lifted, Western and OHA remain adamant in their encouragement for all citizens to wear their masks indoors and outdoors.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Hamersly Library introduces Peer Advocates

Western’s Hamersly Library introduces new student staff on the team, Peer Advocates

Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

Hamersly Library is committed to providing a secure and welcoming environment where students can feel safe during all hours of operation. 

Earlier this year, Hamersly Library announced the inauguration of their new staff group, the Peer Advocates. This new student employee position was tasked with serving as student advocates in a peer leadership role, particularly in the evening and weekend hours when full-time staff are unavailable. 

According to Hamersly Library, the need for Peer Advocates arose due to several factors, primarily caused by campus wide cutbacks brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In September of 2020, many staff members had to be laid off based on seniority. Before the pandemic, the library was completely student-run which provided its own challenges since services were also being provided for members of the local community.

In addition to these issues, the library heard conversations detailing concern and a sense of vulnerability among patrons, primarily students, during the 2020 – 21 academic year.

“We confirmed that late night hours and weekend hours were important in terms of study space, but also that students considered basic library services sufficient during those hours with referrals to daytime staff when necessary,” said Janeanne Rockwell-Kincanon, the public service librarian at Hamersly Library. “From our graduating student employees, we heard that while those student-staffed hours were mostly quiet, there were occasions when having a clear leader designated would be beneficial.”

From 5 p.m. to midnight on weekdays and during weekend hours, Peer Advocates will function as the “lead” student employees for students coming in and out of the library. They will not serve as supervisors to their peers, but rather as coordinators and a resource for students’ needs and concerns. 

While the Peer Advocate position is still a work in progress, with time only dictating future enrichment, the staff are committed to improving quality of service through the collaboration of ideas and showcasing their own individual strengths.

“Loki (Lyrix-Astyriel) is fluent in ASL, so I’m pleased that our Deaf and Hard of Hearing patrons have someone with whom they can fully communicate,” said Rockwell-Kincanon.

Meanwhile, Saysha Breitmeyer has experience in working with the Math Center, and Jaelynn Cocker has worked for the library since even before the pandemic. Students visiting Hamersly can find the three Peer Advocates doing their rounds wearing their new Peer Advocate white jackets.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Oregon House considers gas bill

House Bill 4151 would allow drivers to pump their own gas in Oregon

Mollie Herron | News Editor

The 2022 legislation session started in Oregon at the beginning of February, and a new bill is being introduced. House Bill 4151 would allow drivers in Oregon to choose to pump their own gas or have a gas attendant do so.

In the past, self-service has been allowed in instances of extreme weather conditions, labor shortages and COVID-19. There are also counties with smaller populations that allow for self-service to account for the smaller workforce.

In the United States there are only two states where drivers don’t pump their own gas — Oregon and New Jersey — but this new bill could leave New Jersey as the only state left. The reasoning as to why Oregon still has gas attendants is that it spreads responsibility to more than the single cashier in a given gas station. That way, there are more eyes on the property to watch customers so the risk of injury and inhalation of fumes is reduced.

The bill is not requiring all stations to let drivers pump their own gas but instead offers that a portion of the pumps be allowed for self-service, depending on how many are at the station.

Many fear the effect the bill could have on pump attendants and their jobs, but as stated it only requires a portion of the station to be self-service, while the rest of the pumps will still be controlled by employees.

In situations where the gas station only has one pump, that pump will be reserved for the owner, operator or employee of the station. In the bill it is stated that the State Fire Marshal will have the power to declare all pumps as self-service if in a statewide or local emergency. It also increases the maximum fine for self-pump related violations to $1,000 from the previous $500 fine.

The bill is currently backed by members of the Republican and Democratic parties. Due to the short legislative session, if passed, this bill could take effect by the end of the year.

Have an opinion about House Bill 4151? React to our poll on our Instagram Story, @thewesternhowl to share thoughts on this possible change.

Contact the author at howlnews@wou.edu

 

 

“Howl from the Heart”: Western’s annual day of giving

Wolves give back for 2022 Giving Day

Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

March 1 marks this year’s Giving Day, or “Howl from the Heart,” Western’s annual day of giving. During this 24-hour period, students, faculty and alumni come together in solidarity to make a positive impact on the Western community.

Giving Day has aided in drawing in tremendous donations for foundations, scholarships and various programs and departments since its establishment in 2016 at Western.

In 2021, the university was able to raise over $170,000 in donations from Giving Day with a total of 820 gifts. 

This year, Giving Day is expected to be bigger and better than ever. The goal for 2022 is to raise $250,000 in support of scholarships and programs. 

Those wishing to donate and make an impact can do so in various ways. 

Throughout the month of February, Western is encouraging employees to participate in Giving Day by sharing their monthly goal of $5,000 in donations through payroll deductions. Staff and faculty wishing to contribute can enroll in payroll deduction by completing the employee deduction form, found on the WOU Foundation webpage.

Graduating seniors, specifically, can participate in Giving Day while also leaving a lasting legacy. Seniors are encouraged to leave their mark by donating at least $20.22 to a program or department of their choice at Western. These gifts can be made in honor or in the name of current faculty members. In thanks, seniors who donate on Giving Day will receive a “Howl from the Heart” lapel pin to wear on their graduation gown.

The Alumni Challenge, which takes place from 12 – 2 p.m. on Giving Day, offers a custom “Howl from the Heart” campfire mug for the first 50 people to make a gift of $50 or more.

Clubs and organizations are also contributing to “Howl from the Heart.” The Foundation’s Finance and Planned Giving Committee have pledged to meet up to $1,500 in gifts made towards the Fund for WOU, Western’s unrestricted financial support system for students and faculty alike. In addition, Interim President Jay Kenton has pledged to double the amount by matching the amount received through payroll deduction by up to $5,000.

Whether one lives on or off campus, everyone is encouraged to contribute. Donations can be made online through the WOU Foundation’s webpage at wou.edu/give or through participation of planned giving at woufgift.org.

After donating, make sure to share the good deed on social media by using the hashtags #WOUgivingday and #WolvesGiveBack.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Western’s LGBTQ+ club hosts traditional ball

Western’s Triangle Alliance holds their winter term Red and Black Ball

Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

On Feb. 11, Western’s Triangle Alliance hosted the Red and Black Ball, an event which celebrates the decades-long tradition of promoting health and wellness in the queer community. The event took place a week after Western’s Out & Proud week, another annual tradition celebrated by many of Western’s clubs and organizations.

The ballroom world has acted as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ members and allies for decades. Functioning as an underground LGBTQ+ subculture, participants, who are largely Black and Latinx people who identify as queer, are able to compete for prizes and cash. People often refer to this ball as the “gay prom,” meant for individuals who weren’t able to experience high school prom as their own authentic selves.

The colors in the name Red and Black Ball pay homage to the original color coded and timeline-based ballroom system, as developed by ballroom star Tommy “Dee” Murphy. The timeline begins with the White Era that spanned from the 1970s to the 1980s, the Red Era, running from 1985 – 1990 and finally, the Black Era in the 1990s. The White Era has since been omitted from the name.

Though the ballroom’s roots are firmly planted in Black and Latin American culture, the Red and Black Ball became a place where all allies and supporters of the queer community could gather in unity. The event, which took place at 7 p.m. in the Columbia Room of the Werner University Center, provided attendants with food, refreshments and a night of entertainment. Alongside dancing, the event also offered games and karaoke.

“Red and Black Ball is a traditional event at WOU and has been going on for a long time,” said the executive board at Triangle Alliance. “It’s our privilege as this year’s (executive) board to continue this cherished tradition and continue to support and provide safe spaces at WOU for our LGBTQ+ students.” 

The event encouraged attendants to show up in formal wear, although it was not required.

As a reminder, Triangle Alliance asks no questions about a student’s or member’s sexual orientation. Anyone is welcome. Students wishing to get involved with the club can find Triangle Alliance’s office in the WUC or contact them at trianglealliance@mail.wou.edu. Triangle Alliance meets every Friday at the Richard Woodcock Education Center room 207 from 4 – 5:30 p.m.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

 

 

Western Makes Money Moves

2022–23 IFC budgeting process begins after a late start

Mikayla Coleman| Managing Editor and Interim News Editor

On Feb. 2, the Incidental Fee Committee met to begin hearing budget presentations for the 2022–23 school year. Abby’s House, the Food Pantry, Childcare Services, WOLF Ride and the Creative Arts each plead their case on why their group’s budgets should either increase or stay the same as the previous year. 

After giving their respective presentations, there was a Q&A session with the heads of each group for clarification on key details that will be important to consider during the budgeting process. Some ideas discussed were the presence of graduate students and how much they use IFC funded programs; what resources exist for food disparity, lack of transportation and lack of childcare before the groups were created; and how often groups that fall under IFC allow students to get career-specific experience. 

The IFC at Western is made up of faculty, administrators and students. 

Out of these three categories, student members are the only ones that are able to vote. Students on the committee are either elected to serve via Associated Students of Western Oregon University elections or appointed by either the Student Body President or the Western President. 

The IFC process covers the budgeting for specific groups that contribute to student success at Western in many different areas. Student media, Abby’s House, the Food Pantry, ASWOU, Athletics, Campus Recreation, childcare services, Creative Arts, Student Engagement, Leadership, Student Activities and WOLF Ride all fall under the IFC umbrella and are funded through the incidental fees — usually around $350 – $400 per student — that are charged to students taking at least one credit hour at Western. 

With the immense challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented in recent years, groups that are funded by IFC have been digging into a backup fund rather than generating revenue for themselves. It has worked as a part of the emergency response, but it is not a renewable resource and will eventually run dry. As a result of this challenge and enrollment at Western dropping by 11%, the overall IFC budget is expected to decrease. 

The next IFC meeting will be Feb. 9 in which head budget presentations will commence. Following the presentations, there will be an open forum for student input on Feb. 23 on Zoom in two sessions, 5 – 7 p.m. and 7:30 – 9 p.m. 

Contact the author at howlmanagingeditor@wou.edu

 

 

Cancer Moonshot Is Reignited

President Biden relaunches program to improve cancer research efforts

Mikayla Coleman | Managing Editor and Interim News Editor

On Feb. 2 the Biden-Harris Administration announced the relaunch of the Cancer Moonshot. Originally released in 2016 when Biden was vice president, the Cancer Moonshot sought to accelerate progress against cancer by over 50% in the next 25 years, as well as find ways to improve the experience of living with and surviving cancer. 

In an official White House statement, they said “Because of recent progress in cancer therapeutics, diagnostics, and patient-driven care, as well as the scientific advances and public health lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s now possible to set ambitious goals. …” 

The initial experience that brought this issue into the hearts of the Bidens was when four friends of Jill Biden were diagnosed with breast cancer. The following year, she launched the Biden Breast Health Initiative to educate Delaware high school students about cancer prevention at an early age. As first lady she continues to advocate for improving patient, family and caregiver experiences with cancer. 

President Biden is working in conjunction with the United Kingdom to make scientific progress related to cancer research. He is also hoping to form a Cancer Cabinet convened by the White House to address cancer across several departments and agencies.  

The statement has several lists of ideas they hope to focus on that will contribute to the goal of addressing and eradicating cancer, including early diagnosis, prevention, addressing inequities that can lead to cancer, administering the correct treatments and learning from those who have experienced cancer in any capacity. 

Contact the author at howlmanagingeditor@wou.edu

 

 

 

 

 

New touch-based language for DeafBlind community emerges in Oregon

DeafBlind community develops language that does not require sight or hearing

Mirella Barrera-Betancourt | Staff Writer

The Pacific Northwest is the birthplace for one of the biggest language advances for the DeafBlind community. The language, named protactile, was created to allow for direct communication between DeafBlind people. It prioritizes touch over visual and auditory senses.

Earlier this year, Western and the DeafBlind Interpreting National Training and Resource Center were awarded a five year, $2.1 million grant by the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration to aid in training interpreters in the language.

At the heart of this new language is Jelica Nuccio, the DeafBlind educator and leader of the protactile movement. Nuccio recently did an interview on Oregon Public Broadcasting’s “Think Out Loud,” where she spoke about the traditional view of language variation and communication for the DeafBlind community. 

“We can’t grow if we always are only getting things second hand from other people who are seeing them in the world first hand because people are uncomfortable shifting to a tactile ground. There have been years and years and years of isolation for DeafBlind people,” said Nuccio.

The need for protactile initially arose 10 years ago as a movement in Seattle, Washington. There, Nuccio worked as an advocate and spokesperson for the DeafBlind community via the Deaf-Blind Service Center. 

Before protactile, there was no method for DeafBlind individuals to communicate directly with each other, as communication and impairment varied widely between individuals. Some used visual ASL, while others preferred tactile ASL, a modified version of ASL that utilizes hand-over-hand signing to help the user track the movements in airspace but still has a visual focus. Protactile, meanwhile, is rooted in touch instead of visual space or sound. 

“Individuals will always have their own idiosyncratic approaches and varying access needs and preferences, but protactile, as an entirely tactile language, is fully accessible regardless of hearing or vision levels, for all users,” said Cole Boeck, junior and interpreting studies major at Western currently learning protactile. 

Nuccio is the lead educator for the DeafBlind Interpreting Institute at Western. Students wishing to get involved with protactile or learn more can contact Nuccio or the DeafBlind Interpreting Institute. They can also view the videos accessible through the DBII Moodle at dbinterpreting.com for more information.

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

 

 

Construction Craziness Continues

Western continues phase 2 of construction on Monmouth Avenue

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

Phase two of construction on Monmouth Avenue is continuing efforts to fix Western’s steam line. 

There was never a plan to have a phase two for this specific project, but because of additional damage that was discovered during the first phase, they had to continue working on the line. 

Work on the steam line has taken longer than expected for a myriad of unforeseen circumstances. 

Construction was unable to begin until after graduation ceremonies commenced in 2021, even though the project was approved several months before then. The delivery of piping material and critical valves was delayed substantially, around six to eight weeks, due to supply chain issues. There were also change orders — some of the existing conditions were not fully documented in the existing drawings — which resulted in the need for more materials, different requirements and an increased project scope. 

“Construction work involving utilities services placed in the ground can be slow and unpredictable,” said Mike Elliot, project manager for Capital Planning and Construction. “Most often, the work to be performed is on systems which can be decades old and not always well documented. Because Western is 150 years old, the steam line system has been added to many times in several phases and projects. While all of the information concerning the steam system is available, it has not been collected in a single set of construction drawings. This fact has added to the complexity of completely understanding the total scope of the project.”

All the unexpected discoveries have given construction crews the opportunity to address more issues.

“One goal for the final outcome of the steam line repair project is to produce a single set of ‘as built’ drawings documenting the entire steam line system on campus,” said Elliot. “This will significantly assist the Facilities Department in the future in providing preventative maintenance of the system ensuring the longevity of the new steam line.” 

Originally due to end in Nov. 2021, the best estimate of when construction will be finished is now April 2022.

Contact the author at howlmanagingeditor@wou.edu

The tutoring opportunities are endless

Everything students need to know about free tutoring at Western

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

As students are entering week three of fall term at Western, the time for tutoring is upon us. Western offers a wide variety of student tutoring and support services that many students do not even realize are available to them, completely for free. There is no reason for any student to struggle alone or be afraid to reach out for help in subjects that they need extra support in when there are so many kind faces ready to set them up for academic success. 

Appointment availability decreases as the demand for tutoring and help in courses rises near the end of the term. To ensure students receive all the help they need, it is encouraged to be mindful of when the most support will be needed in specific courses and make appointments in advance accordingly. 

This tutor guide is available outside of the Advising Office.

Writing Center — The Writing Center offers writing help for papers and professional projects. Many English courses at Western either require an appointment with the Writing Center for course credit or offer extra credit for showing proof of a Writing Center appointment when working on a project. They are currently offering appointments online and in person on the first floor of Hamersly Library. The easiest way to make an appointment is to use their specific online scheduler via the Western portal. 

Math Center — The Math Center offers drop-in math tutoring for almost all 100, 200 and 300 level courses, both in person on the second floor of Hammersly Library or online via Zoom. 

Science Center — The Science Center offers drop-in and scheduled appointments in person, in study room 124 in Hamersly Library or online via Zoom. The Science Center seeks to help struggling students master skills that are necessary for success in science courses here at Western. 

Computing Science Tutoring — The Computing Science Center offers tutoring in upper and lower computer science and information system courses. They offer drop-in appointments Monday – Thursday from 12 – 4 p.m. in person in the newly renovated ITC in room 310D, or online via Zoom. To make an appointment, students are encouraged to email a known tutor or reach out to the tutoring director, Tracy Boyson.

SSA Tutoring — Student Success and Advising Tutoring covers the most ground by far, tutoring in over 20 different subjects, many of which fall under general education requirements. Outside of the previously stated academic disciplines — they cover many different nontraditional tutoring subjects such as art, music, sustainability and gerontology. In addition, they offer study skills tutoring where students can learn how to be more effective in their notetaking, test taking and time management skills. 

According to Keegan Gormally, the tutoring coordinator/academic success advisor for SSA, “SSA Tutoring seeks to build content knowledge in courses, study skills and academic habits, peer connections/connections to campus for students, support for students so they are more likely to seek help, and empower students towards their personal and academic goals.”

SSA Tutoring appointments are going to remain strictly via Zoom through fall term. Students can schedule appointments with a plethora of different tutors via the Wolf Connection System on the Western portal. 

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

Vaccine requirements are increased over the U.S.

The Biden-Harris Administration introduces new nationwide vaccination requirements

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

Since the beginning of his presidency, President Joe Biden has been a huge advocate for the importance of vaccinations among Americans to stop the spread of COVID-19. In September,  President Biden asked the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to develop a set of rules that would require companies with over a hundred employees to get all of their employees vaccinated for COVID. 

Since COVID vaccination opened up freely for all Americans 12 and older on April 19, 2021, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken steps to make COVID vaccines available at 80,000 locations across the United States. They have since moved to vaccine requirements — first in federal employees, then to employees of contractors that work for the federal government, and now extending to all businesses that have more than a hundred employees. 

The official White House report on vaccination requirements released on Oct. 7 stated this requirement will impact over 80 million workers in private sector businesses. If employees decide to remain unvaccinated they will be required to produce a negative test result on a weekly basis before reporting to work. 

The word “requirement” can cause a knee-jerk reaction for many. It is clear that, in general, the American people do not like to be told what to do, especially by the government. But vaccination requirements have been proven to actually work. The Oct. 7 White House report stated, “Vaccination requirements have increased vaccination rates by 20+ percentage points to over 90% in many organizations.” 

OSHA has been faced with the task of writing out the mandate and are working around the clock to make the parameters of the requirements very clear and strong enough to pass legal muster. This is the reasoning behind the slow start to implementation — but it is smartest to iron out all standards as they will most definitely be challenged by those who refuse to comply.

The White House report stated, “Without vaccination requirements, we face endless months of chaos in our hospitals, further detrimental impacts on our economy, and anxiety in our schools. With them, we will accelerate our path out of the pandemic.” 

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

Dollar Tree opens in Independence

A new business moves into town 

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

Everyone’s favorite store where everything is just one dollar has made its way to the Monmouth-Independence area. Dollar Tree opened at the end of September and is ready to serve the community, catering to those in the market for everything from craft wire, to duct tape, to kitchen utensils or frozen burritos. 

While the campus community loves the small town lifestyle that Monmouth offers, the need to drive at least fifteen minutes to get to something as simple as Walmart or the Dollar Tree can be difficult, even for ones that have resided here for several years. Pursuing higher education is a costly endeavor that leaves many students financially straining to keep up with even the most basic necessities. 

Having a Dollar Tree a walkable distance away from Western will prove useful for the many students on campus that do not have cars. Plus, Dollar Tree has many accessible and cost effective items that make it very valuable to the town’s community. They carry everything from school supplies, to hand soap, to phone chargers at a very reasonable price. They also accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT). 

The Dollar Tree located on 1401 Monmouth St. is open for business Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. 

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

The Freedom Center opens in WUC

A place for connection, understanding and learning about heritage and culture 

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor 

Oct. 1 marked the opening of Western’s Freedom Center. Located in the Werner University Center, the Freedom Center is meant to be a physical space in which students of color are able to find refuge. While this is the main purpose of the Freedom Center, different clubs and organizations that are culturally specific are able to use the space to hold meetings and collaborate with one another. 

The road to the opening of the Freedom Center proved to be a treacherous longhaul. Students have been advocating for the creation of a space like the Freedom Center for quite some time.

“It has been a project that has been requested by the students for a very long time, and to finally have it shows all the hard work that past and current students put into it,” said Elisa Tenido, Associated Students of Western Oregon University Director of Multicultural Advocacy. 

The establishment of the Freedom Center is hoped to expand cultural competency among everyone on Western’s campus, something that many believe has been lacking for far too long. The Freedom Center is expected to be a place where students can make connections based on cultural backgrounds, whether they are similar to or different from one another. 

“As a Filipino, I do not know a lot of other Filipinos on campus and the (Freedom Center) provides a space where we can meet,” said Tenido. 

The Freedom Center was officially opened by co-founders senior communications studies major Makana Ripley and junior social science major Arlette Topia Lopez with a ceremony and cake pops.

In the same way that Western works hard to ensure the comfortability of everyone on campus — taking this step will allow a safe space in which students are able to talk about differences and make connections between the vast amount of different traditions and heritages students bring with them when they come here to pursue their higher education. 

For those who have experienced racial profiling or discrimination, it can be hard to explain and make connections with people who have not had to experience those hardships. 

“Personally it is hard for me to put into words how important this space is for people of color. When people of color talk about their experiences with non-people of color, there always seems to be this layer of explaining that is done … explaining why something is funny or why something is offensive,” said Tenido. 

The Freedom Center hopes to be able to bridge these gaps through growth in knowledge and understanding. 

“Having the (Freedom Center) takes away that layer because people of color can just talk about their experience or something funny that happened when they were growing up or (compare) random cultural superstitions,” said Tenido. “It is a space for students of color to be seen by other students of color to share and bond.”

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

Inside the new Freedom Center

Hamersly Library adapts to student needs, extending hours

Due to suggestions from students, Hamersly Library extends hours, ensuring students have access to facilities

Stephanie Moschella | Digital Media Manager & Cora McClain | Editor-in-Chief

Starting Sep. 27, Hamersly Library opened its doors past closing to Western students and affiliates. In addition to the 24-hour room being available, Hamersly will be open for additional evening and late night hours: Monday – Wednesday 6 p.m. – 12 a.m., Saturday 4 p.m. – 9 p.m., and Sunday 4 p.m. – 12 a.m. 

Students have already begun using these extra hours and resources, found across all three floors of the library.

Pre-nursing first-year Finn Jennings explained that the extended hours would give more access to library resources. “There are more opportunities to check out books,” Jennings said, “if you forget, you can come in late.”

Along with increased access to library resources, these hours also give students another place to go to get work done or gather safely for group work. The study rooms in the library have been reopened with mask requirements, even if students use them alone. Reservations for study rooms can be done online or by calling the library. Walk-ins are available, but they work on a first come first serve basis. 

First-year education major Alexis MenkeBowers said she will be using the extended hours a lot. 

“I only get stuff done if I’m in a third location,” MenkeBowers explained, “I’m not very good at keeping myself accountable in my room.”

Jordan Bell, first-year psychology major, agreed that the ability to study in a different location is beneficial, “especially for students who have a roommate who isn’t quiet, or who can’t work in their room.”

Run entirely by student employees, Hamersly will only be available for people affiliated with Western. Working closely with campus security, student employees ensure a Western-only library during the nighttime hours. Before entering the building, all must show their Western IDs in the lobby. If students do not have their IDs on them, they can also successfully log in to their portal on a shared laptop at the new concierge desk. 

The additional hours also created new student employment opportunities, such as the peer advocate. A peer advocate is the stand in lead of the library once all Western faculty leaves. They are the most trained person that can aid anyone coming into the library and are essential in training new student employees as well. Peer advocates perform regular walkthroughs of the entire library, establishing safeguards to check that patrons are adhering to mask mandates and the Western exclusive rules.   

Public services librarian Janeanne Rockwell-Kincanon described how, during the 2020–21 school year, multiple groups of students criticized the shortened library hours. Many students explained how they were in need of the free and public resources. The additional hours were opened because students showed an interest in late night hours. 

For instance, sophomores Lindie Larson and Kaiya Leamy, social science major and biology major respectively, explained how Western athletes benefit from these hours. 

“We’re both student athletes so we can fit (these hours) around our schedules with practices,” said Larson; “especially on the weekends,” Leamy added. 

Hamersly Library is taking steps to adapt to students’ needs with these extended hours. Not only are the resources available, but they are being managed in a safe way. As Rockwell-Kincanon described, it is “a student run library, for students.” 


Contact the authors at westernhowleditor@thewesternhowl.com and digitalmediamanager@thewesternhowl.com.

A valiant return: homecoming makes a comeback for fall 2021

With a lineup of exciting activities, homecoming 2021 is sure to not disappoint

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

Homecoming week is upon us. This student favorite, which has been at Western for a century, is back and will not disappoint. Oct. 5 – 9 marks a week jam packed with exciting and engaging activities leading up to the big game and the crowning of Wolf Royalty on Saturday. 

Homecoming is much more than just a football game. “Having something where we can come together and kind of have fun and unite over something, even if you’re not into sports, it’s a good excuse to dress up, put on your WOU shirt, or whatever,” said Antonia Scholerman, the Homecoming Events adviser.

Homecoming this year has a more emphasized meaning. Due to COVID-19, almost all students were off campus last year and were unable to attend or participate in the traditional activities, like football games.  

In our ever-changing COVID world, we are learning to adapt; and homecoming, like most other on campus events, has had to adapt as well. For example, the Power Puff game was replaced this year with a dodgeball tournament. This exciting addition to homecoming week also proves to be more inclusive. 

“Typically Power Puff was only open to female-identifying students and so (now) anyone of any gender can participate in the dodgeball games,” Scholerman said. 

While homecoming events are important in growing and strengthening the community of students at Western, it is also a way for students to get connected with their off campus community in Monmouth. The activity that best exemplifies this is Paint the Town Red in which students will paint the windows of local businesses in downtown Monmouth. Student groups sponsor these windows and they will be judged against one another. The winner will be announced during a pizza party for the participating groups. This process of collaboration between these businesses, making a very physical and bold show of support for students at Western, reaps a mutual benefit. 

Every year there are nominations of students, by students — six of whom will end up on the 2021 Homecoming Court. After the court is established, these students will fill out a questionnaire and have interviews to allow students and staff to better get to know them and their values. Once those are filled out, voting forms will be sent out to all students so they can vote for the two finalists who will be crowned Wolf Royalty. 

For the full rundown of homecoming events, check out our calendar below. 

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

Intramural sports return

Intramural recruiting for Fall 2021 begins

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

The recent return to campus life leaves many students questioning just what extracurricular activities are resuming for fall term. Intramural sports have made a strong willed return. 

Intramural sports programs are open to all Western students, faculty, staff and spouses. They are a great option for those who want to participate in sports, but may not necessarily have the commitment level or developed skill set for a school sports program. 

“Intramurals fill a unique void. There are no practices, no coaches — it’s just show up and have fun and play with your friends,” said Andy Main, assistant director for Campus Recreation. 

Intramurals have less emphasis on qualities that make sports a stressful event and weigh more on getting involved within the campus community. 

“It’s a unique way to blow off steam, maybe take your mind off of a stressful final coming up — for me, most importantly is to meet and bond and get to know new people,” Main said. 

Western’s intramural program has thirteen different sports that they are currently recruiting for. Each sport does have a cost associated with it depending on the scope of the league, tournament or event. This fall term they plan to offer many exciting in person events including Badminton League, Corn Hole League and Volleyball League. Amidst the pandemic panic we have all endured, they also plan to grow with the technical times and implement two virtual sports and activities: the NCAA Bowl Game Pick’em and esports. 

All rules and regulations can be found on imleagues.com/wou. 

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

WOU continues campus-wide mask mandate for fall term

All the details about what is required to maintain the health and safety of all Western students

Mikayla Coleman | News Editor

Going into fall term during the seemingly endless years of the COVID-19 pandemic leaves many Western students and faculty feeling uneasy. According to the Oregon Health Authority, as of Sept. 2021, Oregon alone has reached 318,914 cases and accumulated 3,661 deaths due to the spread of COVID-19. Trying to navigate the rules and regulations for in person learning proves to be daunting and confusing — so here is an in-depth guide for Western students returning to campus this fall.

Sophomore social science major Lindie Larson and sophomore forensic chemistry major Amity Deters follow mask mandates while studying at Hamersly Library.

Where are masks required? Briefly over the 2021 summer break, fully vaccinated students were able to enjoy Western facilities maskless. However, since the development of the delta variant took the world by storm in July, masks have made a valiant return for the safety of everyone on campus. 

All vaccinated and unvaccinated employees, guests, vendors and students must wear a mask on campus when indoors. Masks are required outside when social distance cannot be maintained. 

If students have a disability that prevents them from wearing a face covering, reach out to the Office of Disability Services. 

Something new from the 2020-21 school year is that the campus is open to visitors. Said visitors must adhere to the same rules as students and staff members by wearing a mask when inside and outside. In person tours for prospective students are available by appointment only. 

Are vaccines required? Proof of COVID vaccination is required for all students and employees on campus unless they are able to receive an exemption through the university. The exemption is not limited to just medical reasons — religious or philosophical reasons for being unvaccinated are also being taken into consideration. 

Social distancing guidelines are posted outside the Werner University Center.

What do living situations look like? Living on campus and using high contact shared spaces have caused concern among students. Isolation that has been so heavily recommended throughout the pandemic is nearly impossible to achieve in a dormitory setting. Despite this, first-year students are still required to live on campus as they have been in past years. 

Working through the challenges that come with it, Western has put its best foot forward while preparing for students’ return. Student housing has made an effort to create more single dorm options. Students in residence halls are required to wear masks when not directly inside their assigned room. The university will also provide separate housing for COVID quarantine as needed. 

For students that have a meal plan, the Valsetz Dining Hall will be open with seating arranged for social distancing. Other retail dining options, such as Caffè Allegro, will be open with regular business hours. 

Caffé Allegro encourages social distancing protocols via venti cups.

What do the classroom situations look like? Western offers a wide range of flexible classroom environments to fit different students’ needs including in person, hybrid, online synchronous and online asynchronous courses. 

Western will be implementing contact tracing protocols for those that choose to attend in person classes. If a student participating in an in person class tests positive, all students also taking that course will be notified. 

What do extracurricular activities look like? In person activities such as sports events will be offered in order to provide the Western experience as long as it is deemed safe to do so. 

Creative arts programs expect to be back with concerts, plays, dance productions and art exhibits. Student Engagement plans to have a variety of in person activities to participate in, including clubs, activities and organizations. 

Contact the author at newseditor@thewesternhowl.com

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