Mount Hood

Contain the stain: stain removal made easy

Hacks for getting out common stains

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Stains are always a hassle to deal with, especially stubborn substances like coffee and grease. But all stains can be conquered; here are some easy tips for removing common stains.

For coffee and tea spills, start by flushing the stain out from the inside of the garment with cold water. If there is still residue after several minutes, take some liquid laundry detergent or dish soap and dilute it with water. Gently rub this mixture into the stain, let it sit for five minutes, then rinse from the back of the stain. Launder as usual.

When grease gets on fabric, grab a cloth and some dish soap. First, blot as much oil out as possible. Then, pour dish soap directly onto the stain and work it in with the cloth. Dish soap will cut through grease just as it does on dishes. Let the soap sit for a few minutes, rinse with warm water, then wash at the hottest setting the fabric can handle.

For tomato-based sauces, start by scraping off as much excess as possible. Next, soak the stain in cold water for about five minutes before using laundry detergent on a toothbrush to scrub it. Wash normally in hot water.

Sweat stains can be treated with distilled white vinegar, a common stain remover. Let the stained garment soak in a container of equal parts cold water and distilled white vinegar for about 30 minutes. If the stain doesn’t come out completely, mix some lemon juice with equal parts water. Rub this into the stain, then wash the garment as usual.

A great way to get blood out of fabric is by using hydrogen peroxide. After rinsing the stain with cold water, pour hydrogen peroxide directly on the stain. Repeat as necessary until the stain is mostly gone, then launder in cold water.

With any stained fabric, be sure to check that the stain is completely gone before tossing it into the dryer, as heat will make the stain set.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Join the holiday scavenger hunt for hidden gnomes

“Gnome on the Roam,” a free holiday event in Independence

Natalie Dean | Entertainment Editor 

In order for the community to celebrate this year’s holiday season, many local events and traditions have to make accommodations. “Gnome on the Roam,” a free family-friendly scavenger hunt, is a holiday event hosted by the Independence Downtown Association. Running from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and spanning from Nov. 28 to Jan. 9, there will be plenty of time for members of the community to participate in the scavenger hunt and find the 15 plus gnomes that are painted in the shop windows along Main Street and C Street in downtown Independence. 

These crafty little gnomes will be hiding well, so be on the lookout and pick up a scavenger hunt form ⏤ they will be available in front of Indy Commons and other businesses starting Nov. 28. Once all the mystery items have been found, people can drop off the form in the dropbox at Indy Commons, 154 S Main Street, for a chance to be entered into a weekly drawing. 

The prizes will include $20 gift certificates to any downtown business of your choice. Updates on the “Gnome on the Roam” scavenger hunt and future events can be found on the Independence Downtown Association’s Facebook, and their Instagram page @downtownindependence. 

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

Navigating cuffing season under quarantine

Tips for staying sane when visiting family

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an isolating time for people; being stuck indoors and needing to quarantine after contact has negatively affected the social health of some. Those who participate in cuffing season have suffered the consequences, having to weigh the risk of in person dating against a growing need for physical touch. For those still pursuing that special someone to spend the winter with, here are some tips to keep in mind. 

Video calls and chatting over direct message is the safest option for dating, but the goal of cuffing season is to find a partner to hunker down with in the cold weather. So, before meeting in person for a date, have both partners agree to quarantine for 14 days as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends. Even after meeting in person, try to keep social circles small to contain the spread of COVID. 

Communication is especially important to stay protected this year. Ask partners about their social distancing practices and recent exposure to large groups. Alongside this, be open and firm about personal comfort levels regarding being out in public.

Go on low-risk dates; at home activities like baking, TV binging and ordering takeout dinners are safest, but there are a few other options. Enjoy a local park by going for a walk or having a picnic — just don’t forget to bundle up. Drive around to see holiday lights or catch a drive-in movie. 

Cuffing season can still go on as long as certain precautions are taken. Be mindful of the health of all those involved so that one another’s company can be enjoyed safely.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Make a wish on the Geminids

The largest meteor shower of the year arrives December 13

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Every year in the middle of December, the night sky glistens with the celestial bodies of the Geminids meteor shower. This meteor shower produces as many as 120 meteors per hour, making this event exciting for both experienced astronomers and novice stargazers. The Geminids peak this year on Dec. 13 and 14 under the nearly new moon. 

To best view the meteor shower, head outside, away from city lights, let the eyes adjust to the dark for about half an hour and look straight up to view as much of the sky as possible. Be prepared for the cold and bring winter jackets, blankets and some hot cocoa to enjoy the show. 

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Navigating cuffing season under quarantine

How to snag a significant other during COVID

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an isolating time for people; being stuck indoors and needing to quarantine after contact has negatively affected the social health of some. Those who participate in cuffing season have suffered the consequences, having to weigh the risk of in person dating against a growing need for physical touch. For those still pursuing that special someone to spend the winter with, here are some tips to keep in mind. 

Video calls and chatting over direct message is the safest option for dating, but the goal of cuffing season is to find a partner to hunker down with in the cold weather. So, before meeting in person for a date, have both partners agree to quarantine for 14 days as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends. Even after meeting in person, try to keep social circles small to contain the spread of COVID. 

Communication is especially important to stay protected this year. Ask partners about their social distancing practices and recent exposure to large groups. Alongside this, be open and firm about personal comfort levels regarding being out in public.

Go on low-risk dates; at home activities like baking, TV binging and ordering takeout dinners are safest, but there are a few other options. Enjoy a local park by going for a walk or having a picnic — just don’t forget to bundle up. Drive around to see holiday lights or catch a drive-in movie. 

Cuffing season can still go on as long as certain precautions are taken. Be mindful of the health of all those involved so that one another’s company can be enjoyed safely.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Say yes to yoga with a sun salutation

A yoga sequence anyone can try

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Yoga is a great exercise that can both energize and relax the body. According to healthline.com, yoga has numerous benefits, including decreasing stress and improving strength and flexibility. Try out this yoga sequence — a sun salutation — whether a beginner or a pro.

Take as much time as needed to perform the first and second cycles of the sun salutation. It’s more important to do each pose correctly than to finish the sequence as quickly as possible.

Warm up for a few minutes by sitting comfortably and just focusing on breathing. Stretch out by rotating the neck, wrists, shoulders and ankles. Once ready, slowly move to a standing position and begin the sequence.

SUN SALUTATION

Mountain pose: Stand with a straight spine and feet shoulder-width apart. Relax the shoulders while engaging the core.

Upward salute: Take a deep breath in and reach arms straight overhead. Keep pulling shoulders away from the ears.

Forward fold: Exhale while reaching fingertips down to the floor. Keep the back flat, and bend the knees if there is too much strain in the hamstrings.

Half forward fold: Inhale and place hands on shins while looking up and straight ahead. Engage the core to maintain a straight spine.

Lunge: On the exhale, move the left leg straight back and keep the right leg bent at a 90º angle to come into a lunge. Distribute body weight equally between each leg.

Chaturanga: Move into a push-up position on the inhale. With the exhale, lower down towards the floor ⏤ first the chest, then the pelvis. Come all the way to the floor if needed, and adjust the feet so that the top of each foot is touching the ground.

Upward-facing dog: Breathe in and press into hands to lift the whole body off the floor, including legs. Keep leg muscles active while pulling shoulders down and back from ears. Look straight ahead or upwards if it’s comfortable.

Downward-facing dog: Exhale and adjust the feet so that the soles are now touching the floor, then push up and back into an inverted V-shape. Straighten the spine and bend the knees if necessary.

Lunge: Take a breath in and move the left leg forward into a lunge.

Forward fold: Exhale and relax into forward fold.

Upward salute: Inhale and reach arms upwards.

Mountain pose: Return to an engaged standing position with an exhale.

Repeat this cycle three to four times, then take a few minutes, either sitting comfortably or lying on back, to cool down and once again focus on breathing.

A demonstration of the sun salutation sequence can be found on our website, wou.edu/westernhowl, and our Instagram @thewesternhowl.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

 

Addressing anxiety by being in the now

Join the Student Health and Counseling Center for weekly mindfulness meditation sessions

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

This fall term has brought a new service to Western students through the Student Health and Counseling Center: mindfulness meditation sessions are being held weekly over Zoom by counselors Emily Horak and Bliss Boutin.

Western’s administration requested that the Student Health and Counseling Center create a group in light of common stressors that students were facing, including concerns about COVID-19. Horak and Boutin volunteered to tackle these stressors.

“Mindfulness is something that we’re both really passionate about,” Horak said. “We heard that there was a need to start a group kind of like this, and the two of us volunteered to form it.”

During these mindfulness meditation sessions, students get time in a group setting to process the stress going on in their lives and understand ways of coping with them. Students not only learn about mindfulness, but they also practice mindfulness exercises. Horak and Boutin said they aim to utilize a combination of group counseling and mindfulness.

“With classes being online we’re really wanting it to feel less like a lecture and more interactive,” Horak said. 

She hopes they will achieve this by expanding their group. Students do not need to have prior knowledge or experience with mindfulness to join these sessions. The goal of this mindfulness meditation group is to help any Western students who may be experiencing stress. Horak and Boutin said there is no pressure for prospective students. 

“We just want it to feel very welcoming and inviting, and it’s not meant to feel formal for anyone,” Boutin said.

The mindfulness meditation group meets every Thursday at 3 p.m. until Dec. 10. It is free for students who have paid the fall term health service fee. Contact the Student Health and Counseling Center at 503-838-8313 if interested in joining.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

 

A-plus study tips for upcoming exams

Ideas to improve your next study session

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Midterms are looming and finals always come upon us too quickly to prepare for. It’s probably a broken record by now that cramming is not the best way to study, but it’s true; according to bbc.com, one long study session generally does not help to truly memorize the information. Instead, plan ahead and utilize these study tips for that big exam.

Firstly, delegate time within the week or so before a test to just study. Find a few one-hour windows to sit down and only focus on the exam material. During these times, get rid of any distractions that might take away from studying, like getting up to snack or checking phone notifications. Take a ten-minute break halfway through the study session if need be, but be sure to come back to it and finish strong.

As for how to study the material, different strategies work for different people depending on their learning style. If reading out of a textbook, try taking notes and writing the information in a new way as opposed to simply copying it. Annotate the readings with highlights, definitions, questions and summaries.

Another approach to try is making flashcards. This will allow for reviewing the key information all at once, and the process of writing or drawing the necessary terms will help the mind memorize them too. Students can also look over old homework, labs and assignments to see how the material was applied. Take the time to redo some earlier problems and questions from memory to identify what mostly needs to be studied.

If friends or family aren’t too busy, attempt to teach them the material. Explaining a concept to another person gives students the opportunity to organize their thoughts and information to help solidify the knowledge. This can be especially helpful for auditory learners to hear the information spoken aloud in a conversational format.

On the night before the exam, it is imperative to get enough sleep. During sleep, information gets consolidated or committed to long-term memory, meaning it can be recalled later on. Plus, fatigue makes it difficult to focus — exactly the opposite of what students need during their test. Study in the days before the test and head to bed early the night before in order to be best prepared.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Go nuts for donuts at the Donut Bar

Monmouth’s Donut Bar serves up delectable treats

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

The Donut Bar has been serving fresh, handmade donuts to Monmouth residents since September of 2019. Since their one-year anniversary has passed, owner Eric Brown says their first year of business has gone very well.

“We’ve been really, really blessed,” Brown said. “Luckily, the community has been pretty awesome. They came through.”

Brown and his family first opened the Donut Bar as part of a lifelong dream. Monmouth’s need for a donut shop paired with the opportunity to help out his community at the Limitless Ministries church was what pushed Brown to create The Annex food truck lot and open for business. They are fulfilling their mission to serve the public in a number of ways, including hiring Western students, offering a space in The Annex for another local business, hosting Bible study groups Wednesday evenings — in person and over Zoom — and helping to fund their church.

“We’re fundraising the whole month of November for our church,” Brown said. They are selling $5 raffle tickets, one per customer, to enter a drawing for a free dozen donuts. “Without (Limitless Ministries), we’re not here,” he said.

The Donut Bar offers many services and great deals on top of giving back. They work with DoorDash to deliver their fresh donuts, and they fulfill pre-orders for all types of events. Stamp cards are now available, and anyone can receive a free donut on their birthday. Plus, for Western students, the Donut Bar offers a 10% discount with the presentation of a student ID card.

Not sure what to try first? The shop personally recommends the apple fritters, maple bacon donuts, Oreo donuts or s’mores donuts. Customers can even build their own donuts for endless flavor possibilities. If their extensive donut menu isn’t enough, they also offer a few different sandwiches.

Looking ahead to the future, Brown is planning to open another food trailer, The Loaded Grill, which serves deli-style sandwiches and barbecue. They hope to be open by the end of November. For The Annex, Brown has some ideas to upgrade the lot with ample seating and design it to create a hometown feel. Additionally, they have a long-term goal to open a permanent location Donut Bar cafe in town.

The Donut Bar is located at 191 Monmouth Ave. N at The Annex behind Limitless Ministries church. Visit them from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to check out their daily specials, and pre-order some donuts through DoorDash, Facebook Messenger or by calling them at (503) 798-1328.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Three lively themed lunches to try

Get creative with these themed lunch boxes

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

If anyone is looking to spice up their lunch game, get creative with themed lunch boxes. Making food that sticks to a theme can make the assembly process more enjoyable, especially when friends join in. Try out these ideas for themed lunch boxes, and have some fun customizing.

FALL-THEMED LUNCH

2 slices of bread

Sandwich filling of choice

1 large bell pepper, yellow, orange or red

1 apple

Crackers or chips

Using a circle cookie cutter or a drinking glass, cut two circles out of bread. Use a knife to shape the circles into a point on one end. Place sandwich filling on one piece of bread, then place the second piece of bread on top. Cut out a semicircle from a heel of bread for the top of the acorn. Position on top and adhere with nut butter if desired. 

For the produce: cut a large slice of bell pepper, then use small leaf-shaped cutters to create leaves. Other products can be substituted to make leaves, like cheese, melon or fruit leather. Next, cut a large slice of apple and carve an apple shape into the peel.

Finally, arrange each element into a lunch box. On one side, add a desired crunchy snack like pita chips, crackers or pretzels.

Recipe from modernparentsmessykids.com

RAINBOW-THEMED LUNCH

2 red mini sweet peppers, sliced

1 mandarin orange, peeled and segmented

1 golden kiwi, sliced

½ cup sugar snap peas

¼ cup blueberries

½ cup red seedless grapes

1 large spinach wrap

2 ounces sliced turkey

½ cup baby spinach, chopped

1 tablespoon hummus

1 slice provolone cheese

Assemble lunch box with produce in rainbow order. Also feel free to replace produce with another ingredient of personal preference, like bananas for yellow or sweet potatoes for orange.

Lay wrap on flat surface. Spread with hummus and top with cheese, turkey and spinach. Roll up tightly and slice into one-inch thick rounds.

Recipe from healthyfamilyproject.com

For an additional recipe, check out this story on our website at wou.edu/westernhowl.

OCEAN-THEMED LUNCH

2 whole wheat bread slices

Sandwich filling of choice

1 cup blueberries

8-10 apple slices

1 lemon wedge

Cheddar and Mozzarella cheese, enough for six stars

½ cup brown rice or quinoa

3-4 snap peas

1 broccoli floret

Use a fish-shaped cookie cutter on two slices of bread. Add sandwich filling to these pieces. For the fish’s eye, cut a small circle from Mozzarella cheese. Put toothpick in blueberry, then through the circle of cheese and through the top of the sandwich.

Drop blueberries in the bottom half of the main dish and arrange apple slices above them to resemble the ocean surface. Rub apple slices with lemon wedge to help prevent browning. Place fish sandwich on top of blueberries.

Next, cut cheese into starfish shapes, and place in a side container. For the final dish, create turtles out of the broccoli and snap peas. Use the broccoli floret for the shell, and slice snap peas to resemble flippers and a head. Arrange these pieces over rice or quinoa to complete the turtle. 

Recipe from lunchboxdad.com

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Monmouth says farewell to favored food trucks

Downtown food truck pod demolished to make way for Monmouth Commons

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

On Oct. 28, demolition began of the Neighborhood Market and Deli and the adjacent food truck lot. To many, this change was sudden, but according to Monmouth Community Development Director Suzanne Dufner, this project has been in the works for a while — at least a year and a half, she recalled.

Nick Dhote — owner of the Neighborhood Market and Deli and the property leased out to food trucks — and Salem real estate brokers Sim Dhote and Baset Shagrun submitted a design review application through Studio 3 Architecture to the city back in March. They proposed a new multi-use building deemed the Monmouth Commons. The ground level is to be commercial space, nearly half of which is already allocated to the Neighborhood Market and Deli. Two more businesses — allegedly a restaurant and a coffee shop — will occupy the rest of the ground floor. There will also be three floors of apartments built above this business space for a total of 27 two-bedroom spaces.

Nick Dhote and partners are enthusiastic about this project.

“We are so happy and excited to bring something new and (exciting) to the city of Monmouth,” Sim Dhote said via Facebook. Those involved in creating the Monmouth Commons hope to meet the demands of Monmouth residents by providing new living spaces and a place for desired businesses.

These plans were approved by Monmouth’s Planning Commission on May 20, 2020. According to Brian Etienne at Tucky’s food truck, the food truck owners were originally informed that they would need to leave by the end of August. Etienne said Tucky’s began looking for a new location at that point.

“We were going to have to move eventually,” Etienne said, “but in some way I feel we were hoping we would be able to get through 2020 and have an opportunity to rebuild what we had lost financially.”

Etienne said Dhote contacted the food trucks on Oct. 26, informing them that the Neighborhood Market and Deli would be moved out by Oct. 28. The next day, Dhote told them they would need to move out that night so demolition could begin.

Both Etienne and the owners of Lonney’s Lunch Wagon say the situation is bittersweet.

“I miss seeing our customers more than anything,” Etienne said. However, both food trucks are embracing the change and are looking forward to the future.

“Even though we had to leave,” Lonney’s said, “(there’s) always other opportunities out there so we always continue to look and work forward, always (pushing) on.”

Tucky’s plans to move their business to Springfield, OR and is in the process of finalizing location details. In the meantime, Tucky’s is offering dinner delivery service to the Monmouth and Independence area. Check out their online store at lunch-menu.square.site to place a dinner order by 3 p.m. Also follow them on Facebook and Instagram @tuckyskitchen to stay updated and get access to deals.

As for Lonney’s, they plan to use their time to renovate their trailer for the winter season and get set up at a nearby space in Independence. While closed for now, customers can get excited for easier online ordering and more Lonney’s merchandise. Follow Lonney’s on Instagram @lonneyslunchwagon to get the latest information.

Taj India Food Cart, the final truck that was located at the food truck pod, has relocated to Independence. Their new address is at the Space Age gas station: 1082 Monmouth St. in Independence. Contact them at (503) 422-8299.

The Monmouth Commons expects to begin construction in July 2021. They anticipate it will take 11 months to finish, though it could take as long as 18 months due to COVID-19 social distancing regulations. 

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

 

Time to unwind: how to destress in these stressful times

Take it easy with these quick tips for relaxing

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

We’re just over a week into November, and so much has happened already. From election stress to the perpetual class and work load, it’s safe to assume that many of us could use a break by now. Read on for some tips to destress and relax.

One tip that most anyone will recommend is to practice breathing techniques; these can be used any time of day, no matter how busy someone is. Sit, stand or lie down comfortably and relax muscles, then take in a deep, slow breath through the nose. Count to five, then breathe out through the mouth for another five counts. Continue for at least three minutes if time allows.

Getting outside can also reduce stress. Being out in nature can be very calming, and exercising is a proven stress reducer. Take 10 minutes or more to lightly exercise by walking around town. Enjoy the sights and take this time to clear the mind and just focus on the present. Remember to bundle up if the weather calls for it.

On the same track, doing any exercise can be helpful to relieving stress. Do an at-home workout, perform a yoga sequence, head to the gym or go for a jog. An exercise session produces endorphins — stress- and pain-relieving hormones — and allows a break from stressors. 

Another strategy for destressing is to take a break from the things that are contributing to anxiety if possible. This can include social media, news updates, family members or roommates. Let housemates know that some alone time is needed, and spend this time with phone notifications turned off. 

During these social breaks, do something that will reduce stress. For some, this may be catching up on projects, while for others, this might be something totally removed from work and school. Enjoy a favorite hobby — reading, drawing, playing music or watching movies, to name a few — take a nap, meditate, take a bath or try writing about things that are causing stress. Venting in a journal or identifying what is stressing someone out can be a great release of pent-up frustration.

Remember that mental health is something that needs to be nurtured along with physical health. If anyone is really struggling with stress and anxiety, contact someone who can help and provide support.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

 

Have some skele-fun at these fall spots

Get out of the house to celebrate Halloween

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

There are many fun activities to do come Halloween — corn mazes, pumpkin picking and carving, apple picking and enjoying the decor are just a few that anyone can get out and enjoy. Get dressed up or bundled up and explore these fun fall spots.

Fordyce Farm in Salem checks all the boxes. U-pick pumpkins are available for $0.40 per pound, and their apple orchards are also open for picking. They sell a variety of fall decorations as well, like hay bales, gourds and mums. Give their corn maze a try for an admission fee of $4.95, or wait until dusk on Friday or Saturday to brave their haunted “Dark Oregon” corn maze for $13 per person. Find Fordyce Farm at 7023 Sunnyview Road NE in Salem.

The Melon Shack at Winn Farms in Corvallis is another location with a great range of activities. Through Halloween, they sell pumpkins and squashes along with fall decor like corn stalks and hay bales. Their daytime corn maze is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., for $5 per person. Their haunted corn maze opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday; tickets cost $14 on Fridays and Saturdays, and $10 on Sunday. The Melon Shack is located at the corner of NE Garden Avenue and Highway 20.

St. Helens hosts its annual Spirit of Halloweentown celebration through Nov. 1 if anyone is up for the two-hour road trip from Western. Explore where “Halloweentown” was filmed, take advantage of the photo ops, check out local vendors and more. Admission is free on weekdays, but tickets are being sold online for events and parking due to COVID-19. Spirit of Halloweentown is also hosting a virtual party on Oct. 31 for $2 per ticket. Find all this information and more at discovercolumbiacounty.com.

If anyone is worried about social distancing or doesn’t have time to get out and see these fall spots, there are other festive activities to supplement. Drive around nearby neighborhoods and take in the spooky decor. Host a virtual costume competition with friends online. Buy pumpkins from a local grocery store or market and carve them at home, or simply set them on the front porch.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Soup-erior tomato soup recipe

Simple and savory homemade soup recipe to try at home

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Nothing beats a savory soup on a chilly evening. This easy roasted tomato soup recipe hits the spot, especially when paired with a classic grilled cheese sandwich.

 

ROASTED TOMATO SOUP

Start to finish: 55 minutes

Servings: five

3 pounds Roma tomatoes

½ small onion

¼ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons minced garlic

1 teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

1 can evaporated milk

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons fresh basil

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon sugar

Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Halve tomatoes and place cut side up with the onion on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and add garlic, salt and pepper. Stir to coat well. Roast for 40 to 50 minutes, just until starting to brown.

Place in the blender and puree until smooth; leave the lid cracked slightly so the steam can escape. Add evaporated milk, cheese, basil, tomato paste and sugar. Puree until smooth once more, then taste and adjust seasoning to preference. Serve immediately and eat as is, or make a grilled cheese to dip in.

 

Recipe courtesy of thereciperebel.com.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Where to get body mods for college bods

Local tattoo and piercing shops for your next piece

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

I know I’m not alone in itching for a new tattoo. With body modifications, including tattoos and piercings, it’s difficult to stop at just one. Here are some tattoo and piercing shops to check out within driving distance from Western.

Independence has two tattoo studios. Main Street Tattoo is owned by artist Kevin Hamlin who primarily does traditional-style tattoos. Check out his work and contact Kevin at his Instagram @outinthestyx. 

Turquoise Studio features two artists, Kylee Halama and Hanna Martin. Their shop, according to their Facebook page, has been working to maintain privacy for clients by only allowing one artist and one customer in the studio at a time, so be sure to schedule an appointment via their individual Facebook pages, “Tattoos by Kylee” and “Hanna’s Tattoos.”

Salem boasts numerous piercing and tattoo shops, and Addictions Body Piercing and Tattoo is one that provides both body modifications. Featuring a total of four piercers and four tattoo artists, there is someone to cater to the desires of any client. Their website, www.addictionsinc.com, has much more information, including booking appointments. Immortal Ink is another shop in the heart of Salem with three different artists. Find each artist’s portfolio and contact information at the studio’s website: immortalinksalem.com.

High Priestess is a tattoo and piercing shop with locations in both Salem and Corvallis, as well as other cities in Oregon. As of Oct. 16, the Salem and Corvallis shops are only offering piercings for the time being. There are two piercers at each location, and appointments are being scheduled on each campus’ website: beststudioever.com/high-priestess.

Corvallis also offers several other studios, including Sacred Art Tattoo. This shop has three artists, and their individual work can be viewed on their website, sacredartcorvallis.com. Their site also offers multiple ways of contacting them, so pick the one that works best.

One final studio about 30 minutes from Western is DieHard Piercing and Tattoo in Albany. The shop’s owner, Jeremy “DieHard” McLain, does piercings, and three tattoo artists work at the location. Find them at diehardlife.com, check out their work, and email them to book an appointment.

Be sure to comply with the artist’s or piercer’s safety requirements related to COVID-19. Most studios are not accepting cash and do not allow guests to accompany clients.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Happy harvest: a guide to fall crops

October brings a variety of fresh, in-season produce

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Summer may seem to offer the most variety of produce, but fall has quite the selection too. Some fruits and vegetables are nearing the end of their seasons while others are just getting ripe. Here is some of October’s seasonal produce to add to the shopping list.

Grapes of all colors are still being harvested. Stock up and make some jam if canning supplies are available, or grab some to snack on. Meanwhile, kiwi arrives at its peak in the fall in California. Get creative with kiwi by using it as a tart topping or in a salsa.

Apples and pears are two more fruits that taste best in October; use these in a cobbler, crisp or pie. Also try mixing these in-season fruits with some year-round produce — like bananas and cranberries — to create a fruit salad or delicious smoothie.

It is well known that pumpkin is in season come autumn, but other squashes, such as butternut and spaghetti squash, are available too. Each is great to include in soup recipes. Bell peppers are harvested in the fall as well; utilize their versatility to top pasta dishes, mix in stir fry or make stuffed peppers.

Brussels sprouts and beets are two more vegetables that peak in October. Though each may get their own bad rap, they can be enjoyable when prepared in a new way. Brussels sprouts can be sauteed, beets are great on salads and both taste good when roasted.

All this produce and much more are available at grocery stores, but these in-season fruits and vegetables are fresh at farmers markets as well. Check online to see if and when local farmers markets are open, and be sure to follow COVID-19 regulations by wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Dress up in pawsome matching costumes

Perfect costume pairs for pet and owner

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Halloween may look a little different in 2020. There will likely be some who venture out to trick-or-treat, but others like me will be social distancing at home. Staying in on Halloween doesn’t have to be a boring night, however, especially with the company of a furry friend. Celebrate with a pet by dressing up in matching costumes like these.

Ash Ketchum and Pikachu from “Pokémon”

Pikachu onesie — onesiemania.com, $12 to $15

Solid T-shirt — Walmart, $6

Blue vest —Amazon, $17

Red cap — Amazon, $8

 

Angel and devil

White dress — Goodwill, $10

Halo headband — Party City, $5

Pet devil horns — petcostumecenter.com, $3

 

Bandits

Black bandanas — Party City, $2

Black and white striped shirt — Goodwill, $8

Black beanie — Target, $5

If searching for other costume ideas, pick a character that a pet resembles and match with them. An orange tabby could be Rajah the tiger paired with Princess Jasmine, or a small black dog could be Toto matched with Dorothy. Dress as Rapunzel and let a pet gecko or lizard be Pascal, or be Russell from “Up” with a pet golden retriever as Dug. 

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

 

Celebrate Halloween with festive Franken-foods

Spooky snacks and sweets to prepare this Halloween

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Halloween means it’s time for treats. Candy is great, but homemade goodies allow for more creativity. Check out these appetizers and sweets to make for oneself, friends, roommates or family. 

 

  STRAWBERRY GHOSTS

Start to finish: 20 minutes

Yields: approximately 16 

2 cups strawberries

1 ½ cups white chocolate, melted

1 teaspoon coconut oil

¼ cup mini chocolate chips

1 cup chocolate chips, melted

Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine melted white chocolate and coconut oil and stir until combined. 

Dip strawberries into white chocolate, then place two mini chocolate chips on the top half of the strawberries for eyes. Place strawberries on prepared baking sheet and let harden in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.

Place melted chocolate chips in a plastic sandwich bag and pipe mouths on the strawberries. Let cool again in the refrigerator for five minutes before serving.

Recipe from delish.com

 

 

GRAVEYARD BROWNIES

Start to finish: 1 hour

Yields: approximately 20 

1 box of brownie mix (plus additional ingredients listed on the box)

20 Milano cookies, cut in half

2 cups crushed Oreo cookies

3 cups sugar cookie icing, green and black

20 candy pumpkins

Bake brownies as directed, and let cool completely before slicing into squares. If using homemade icing, color half the batch green and the other half black. Load each into a pastry bag with a small round tip or into a sandwich bag with a small hole cut in one corner. Frost squiggly pumpkin vines on the top of each brownie square with green icing. Crumble crushed Oreos on top of the green icing. 

Pipe letters onto the halved Milano cookies with black icing to create headstones. Adhere Milano cookie to the brownie with some black icing. Add a dab of green icing to the bottom of the candy pumpkin and place one on each brownie.

Recipe from adventuresofmel.com

 

 

WITCH’S FINGERS BREADSTICKS

Start to finish: 25 minutes

Yields: approximately 15

1 roll refrigerated soft breadsticks dough

Marinara or pizza sauce

Sliced almonds, or…

1 bell pepper

¼ cup cream cheese

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, and preheat the oven to the temperature indicated on the breadstick dough packaging.

Unroll the breadsticks onto a large cutting board, and using a pizza cutter, slice each breadstick to be about 3 to 4 inches long and ½-inch to 1 inch wide. Roll the dough around a bit to form a finger shape, and use the pizza cutter to press a few horizontal lines in the middle to resemble a knuckle. Transfer breadsticks to the baking sheet.

Indent the more narrow end of the breadstick for the fingernail bed. If using sliced almonds, press one into the bed before baking. If using bell peppers and cream cheese, adhere them after cooking. Bake according to package instructions or until puffy and browning at the top.

Let breadsticks cool completely on a wire rack. Now for the bell peppers: slice them into narrow triangles, add a dab of cream cheese to the tip and stick the pepper on. Serve the finished breadsticks with some marinara or pizza sauce.

Recipe from kitchentreaty.com

 

 

PUMPKIN DEVILED EGGS

Start to finish: 35 minutes

Yields: 24

12 large eggs

½ cup mayonnaise

Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 ½ tablespoons)

1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard

Kosher salt

Black pepper

2 tablespoons paprika

4 chives, cut into small pieces

Hard boil the eggs by placing them in a single layer in a saucepan and adding enough water to cover them with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook covered for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let sit, still covered, for 14 minutes. Then rinse and carefully peel shells off under cool running water. Halve eggs lengthwise. Spoon out yolks into a small bowl and place whites on a serving platter. 

Using a fork, mash the yolks, then stir in mayonnaise, lemon juice and Dijon, and season with salt and pepper. Spoon mixture evenly among egg whites and smooth the tops. Carefully dust paprika to completely cover the yolk mixture. Using a knife, make ridges down the paprika-dusted yolk to look like a pumpkin. Place chive slice above yolk mixture to resemble a stem and serve.

Recipe from delish.com

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

 

Take a hike on a trail near Western

Hiking trails within an hour of Western

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Living in Oregon offers exceptional opportunities to get out and experience nature. According to alltrails.com, there are almost 2,500 trails to hike, bike, run and horseback ride in Oregon — and there are dozens to choose from that are near Western. Read on for some hike recommendations that are within an hour drive from campus.

 

Baskett Slough (14 minutes away): Featuring a pond and a short climb up Mount Baldy, this 5.1-mile trail is a beautiful hike to do, even on a cloudy day. Keep an eye out for numerous birds as well.

Luckiamute Landing (19 minutes away): An easy walk along the Willamette River, this 3.8-mile trail is great for anyone looking for a quick, relaxing outing.

Calloway Creek (20 minutes away): This short, 2.6-mile hike explores Peavy Arboretum, one of Oregon State University’s research forests. Add a quick loop around Cronemiller Lake, and check out OSU’s logging sports arena.

Davies Nettleton Loop (24 minutes away): This 6.6-mile loop offers nice forest views throughout and a moderate 767-foot elevation gain. Customize with detours at trails like the Old Growth Trail and the Upper Dave’s Trail for more traditional dirt paths.

Dimple Hill (24 minutes away): When accessed via Patterson Road 600, this hike is 4.9 miles long with an elevation gain of 692 feet, though it can be accessed from other trailheads. The top offers great views above the McDonald-Dunn Forest and Corvallis.

Fitton Green Natural Area (36 minutes away): This 5-mile hike caters to those looking for some hills; there is a total elevation gain of 1,190 feet. Great views await those who make the climbs.

Willamette Mission (40 minutes away): This state park has several miles of trails to explore alongside two lakes and the Willamette River. Be prepared for a day-use fee, but feel free to pack a lunch and spend a full day relaxing there.

William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge Mega Loop (46 minutes away): A hike with many options for customization, this 8.3-mile loop combines five trails throughout the wildlife refuge. The serene, wet prairie landscape is home to an abundance of bird species — perfect for birdwatching.

Be sure to dress according to the weather forecast, and wear a face covering when passing other hikers.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Put some pep in your meal prep

Tips for how to start meal prepping

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Having access to regular healthy meals can be difficult for college students; healthy ingredients can be expensive, and dorm living does not always offer the necessary amenities for homestyle cooking. However, meal prepping offers a great way to save money and eat delicious meals more regularly. Here are some ideas and tips to help get started.

Set aside enough time to make meals; this will depend on how many meals are cooked at once and could take up to a couple hours. Meals can be made for the next three to six days, depending on budget and refrigerator storage space. Collect enough plastic or glass containers or Ziploc bags to store each meal. If possible, buy ingredients in bulk to save money.

If a stove and oven are not accessible, pick foods that can be cooked in a microwave, are precooked or don’t need cooking at all. Potatoes, pasta, rice, quinoa and frozen vegetables are just a few foods that can be prepared in a microwave. Canned meats don’t need any cooking, and rotisserie chicken can be pulled apart and refrigerated for up to four days.

Keep in mind, certain foods will keep better in the fridge than others. Salads keep for about a week, especially when dressing and wet ingredients are layered at the bottom and greens at the top. Quinoa stays good for about a week as well, while rice and cooked potatoes and vegetables can be eaten for about four days. However, if a freezer is accessible, meals can be prepped and kept for much longer — anywhere from two to four weeks.

As for recipes to try, salads are easily customizable and add some variety to a set of meals. Burrito bowls are another meal with lots of choices available. Loaded baked potatoes, or sweet potatoes, are perfectly proportioned on their own for a lunch. If the means are available to cook soups, stews or ramen, there are many different recipes to choose from. For breakfasts, oats, parfaits and wraps are great options.

If this is the first time trying meal prepping, start small with just lunches or dinners, or only prepare a few days at a time. Don’t feel discouraged if a week is missed; as it becomes part of a regular routine, meal prep will get easier.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

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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.

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