Mount Hood

Financial wellness

April 9, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

According to Business Insider, the average debt an American owes is $104,215 across mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit, auto loans, credit card debt, student loan debt and other debts like personal loans. Now is the time to develop positive financial habits. The transition to managing personal finances can be challenging, especially when one is faced with limited income, rising tuition costs and mounting debt. Understanding the basic concepts, such as budgeting, saving, managing debt and investing not only empowers students to make informed decisions, but also helps set the foundation for a financially secure future. While many college students feel overwhelmed by financial obligations, building financial literacy during these formative years can provide them with the tools to take control of their finances, reduce stress and avoid common pitfalls like excessive debt. By prioritizing financial wellness, we can lay the groundwork for a successful and independent financial future, by ensuring that we are prepared to manage the complexities of post-graduate life. 

First things first —what is financial wellness? It’s understanding and managing one’s financial situation effectively and making informed decisions that align with one’s personal goals and values. Essentially, being in control of one’s finances in a way that supports overall well-being and allows one to live their life without excessive financial stress. 

In order to improve our financial wellness, we need to be financially literate. Being financially literate can help equip one with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions that can significantly impact one’s life. Financial literacy is the ability to understand and effectively use financial knowledge and skills to manage money, make informed financial decisions and achieve financial goals. Some of the knowledge gained when becoming financially literate includes understanding how to create a budget, save for the future, invest wisely and how to avoid relying on others or credit for financial stability. 

The biggest way that one can help contribute to their financial wellness is through everyday budgeting. Tracking income and expenses gives one more control over their money. Especially for students with a limited income, without a budget, it’s easy to overspend or not realize where one’s money is going. Tracking one’s income in school isn’t just that monthly paycheck, it also includes money from one’s parents, scholarships, grants and side hustles. One also needs to understand the difference between fixed and variable expenses. Fixed are regular, consistent costs relating to tuition, rent, utilities, internet, insurance and subscription services. On the other hand, variable expenses fluctuate each month, which include bills like groceries, entertainment, clothing, transportation — gas, public transportation. It’s important to note what is a “need” and a “want.” There are many times where I have thought to myself, “oh my gosh, I need this” when in reality, I could live without it. As we’ve turned into a hyper-consuming society, it’s important to be mindful of how we spend our money. There will be times where we need to tell ourselves “I don’t need that” and ask “will I still be thinking about this tomorrow?” There are many reasons to convince ourselves that we supposedly need a certain object, but we have to prioritize what’s important. Paying our bills is more important than going out with friends. Buying groceries is more important than buying the latest micro trend. Prioritization helps to avoid costly mistakes like overspending, increasing unnecessary debt and financial scams. 

The more one understands how money works, the less likely one is able to fall victim to financial fraud or scams. In today’s world, one will face scams left and right. As technology continues to advance, it’s becoming easier to fall for a scam. The latest scam of 2025 — so far — is AI scams with fake and cloned voices that can pose as family, friends, employers and even one’s own bank. As artificial intelligence evolves at a rapid pace, generated and altered voices can mimic real accents that can feel as if one is talking to a real person. Unfortunately, many fall for these financial deceptions, resulting in long-term consequences. Failure to recognize red flags, identify fraudulent schemes, and participating in risky investments can lead to one entering a never ending financial hole. Without financial literacy, it’s easy to fall into the trap of living paycheck to paycheck, relying on credit cards and neglecting long-term saving. A solid understanding of personal finance ensures you can make decisions with confidence, living within one’s means, build emergency savings and play for future goals. 

One of the biggest financial drains on one’s emotional health is student debt. Majority of students leave school with at least some debt — student loans, credit cards, personal loans, etc. It’s important to alleviate this problem as soon as possible. When it comes to just the student loans, one needs to understand how much is owed, the interest rates and the repayment terms. When it comes time to start the payment process, set the amount to minimum payment. Be sure to pay more than the minimum amount. The minimum payment is just paying off the interest on the loan, it’s not actually making a dent into what is actually owed. When it gets close to graduation, it’s important to remember to refinance one’s student loans. This will help to get a lower interest rate and more manageable monthly payments. Another way to help with financial wellness is to work part time while in school. Money from a job can help to cover living expenses and reduce reliance on student loans and credit cards. Just a few hours a week can make all the difference. 

There are other tips one could take to manage their finances in college.

Start saving early — Putting money into a savings account for future goals or emergencies is a good habit to develop. Try to save up to nine months of current expenses. This will ensure that one has enough money to use in case of an emergency, layoffs or any other situation that may arise. 

Learn more about financial aid options — Maximize financial aid knowledge by visiting the financial aid department. Look for scholarships through the “Scholarships” tab on Western’s Portal. 

Keep track of one’s credit score — Building and maintaining good credit during this time is crucial, as it determines future outcomes for other financial decisions such as renting and getting a car loan. 

Set financial goals — This could be as simple as paying off a certain amount of debt, saving money for a trip or building an emergency fund. Having specific financial goals will keep one motivated and focused as they work towards completing other life goals.

Financial literacy empowers you to make wise financial choices, avoid common pitfalls and achieve long-term financial goals. When one understands their financial situation and knows what steps to take, one will feel more confident in their ability to handle whatever comes their way, from unexpected expenses to long-term planning. In a world where financial products and services are increasingly complex, being financially literate is essential to navigating life successfully. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Cultivating compassion

April 9, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Compassion is one of the most powerful and transformative emotions a person can express. It’s a vital and growing force that has the power to shape both individual lives and communities. It’s easy for compassion to fall between the cracks when we are bombarded with disasters — both natural and man-made. In today’s fast-paced digital world, cultivating compassion is more important than ever, as it helps to build stronger relationships, respond to challenges with resilience and contribute positively to a society in need of greater care and understanding.

Compassion is the ability to recognize and empathize with the suffering or struggles of others — feeling a desire to help alleviate the pain and hardship. Compassion can be expressed through kind words, understanding or even small acts of kindness, and it often brings people closer together. 

Many think that compassion and sympathy go hand in hand, but they are very different. Sympathy is the feeling of pity or sorrow for someone’s misfortune or suffering — it’s feeling bad for someone but not necessarily taking action to help.

Why do we need to practice compassion? For one, it builds stronger connections with the people in our lives. Showing that we care and are understanding towards others fosters a sense of closeness and trust. When people feel valued and supported, it leads to stronger and more meaningful relationships. Being compassionate towards others increases our own happiness. It gives one a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Helping others releases oxytocin — the “feel-good” chemical.

Compassion directly helps alleviate the suffering of others, whether it’s emotional, physical or psychological. We can make a tangible difference in someone’s life, helping them to feel less isolated in their struggles.

Compassion also contributes to the creation of a more caring and supportive society. Compassionate communities are more inclusive, less judgmental and more cooperative. It’s beneficial to everyone because it reduces social isolation and fosters a greater sense of belonging. One becomes resilient in the face of adversity as they practice compassion. Responding with empathy and patience reduces feelings of anger, frustration and helplessness when we are faced with challenges.

Acting compassionately to others can inspire them to act kindly, creating a positive ripple effect. Focusing on understanding and caring for others shifts our focus from personal grievances to more constructive and positive actions that result in the improvement of our own mental state and relationships. In the end, it truly helps to create a more supportive, resilient and harmonious world for everyone. 

There is concern of a decline of compassion within our modern society. Here are some of the reasons why we’re seeing a downward trend.

Increased digital interactions — Social media and online communication increases the loss of face-to-face, personal connections that naturally foster compassion. Because online interactions feel more impersonal, they lead to a decrease in empathy and a sense of emotional detachment. Specifically, the anonymity of the internet can increase cases of trolling and online bullying.

Individualistic lifestyles — Our modern life emphasizes productivity, achievement and individual success. With the prioritization of competition and individualism, there is less focus on collective well-being and concern for others. People may feel too busy or preoccupied with their own lives to engage in compassionate acts toward others.

Social and political polarization — Increasing polarization happens when people are deeply divided. There’s a tendency to dehumanize those on the “other side,” making it harder to feel empathy or compassion for people with differing viewpoints. Polarization also creates an “us vs. them” mentality which, in turn, fuels a society where understanding and kindness are overshadowed by judgment and hostility. 

Cultural shifts towards self care — Although self care is extremely important for our mental and emotional well-being, an overemphasis on individual needs can sometimes overshadow a focus on others. Becoming too absorbed in one’s own self-care routine can lead to the neglect of the needs of others and/or fails to engage in acts of kindness and compassion. The shift towards self-care is due to the constant exposure to global crises, such as war, poverty and natural disasters, through news and social media.  Also known as “compassion fatigue” and “desensitization,” this can be overwhelming, leading one to disconnect emotionally or feel helpless, reducing their capacity to respond with compassion.

There are many challenges that hinder compassion in some areas of society. The decline in compassion may be more related to certain societal trends or challenges, but the ongoing efforts of individuals, communities and organizations suggest that compassion continues to thrive and can be nurtured in response to the difficulties we face. We can fight back by actively practicing compassion.  But ow can we practice compassion? 

Active listening — This means to truly listen to others without judgment or interruption; to listen to understand, not just to respond. Also, to acknowledge someone’s emotions and letting them know they’re heard can be incredibly comforting.

Showing empathy — Try to put oneself into the other person’s shoes to understand their emotions and experiences.  Comfort them by saying, “I can’t imagine how hard that must be for you.” This shows that one recognizes their pain and is emotionally connected to their experience.

Offering help and support — Compassion is demonstrated through action. Try to offer to help through physical assistance, emotional support or being there for someone.

Don’t forget about self-compassion — It’s important to be kind to oneself. Treat oneself with the same kindness, understanding and patience that one would offer a close friend. Instead of being overly critical, be empathetic and offer gentle encouragement. 

Random acts of kindness — Small, unsolicited acts of kindness go a long way, such as holding the door open for someone, sending a thoughtful note to a friend or giving a genuine compliment. Actions not only brighten someone else’s day but also cultivate a mindset of compassion in your own life.

Avoiding judgment — Avoid making snap judgements about others. One’s behavior is often influenced by unseen circumstances. Try to be open-minded and approach others with curiosity and compassion instead of criticism and labels.

Practice patience — It’s a requirement for cultivating compassion. Give people the time and space they need. 

Understand that words have power — Be mindful how one speaks to others. Communicate with kindness and respect. A gentle word can sometimes heal more than a harsh one. Also remember, when offering advice, make sure it’s supportive rather than critical. 

Be present — Sometimes the most compassionate thing one can do is simply be present for someone. Being there for someone in their time of need can provide them with a sense of comfort and connection. 

Be forgiving — This includes letting go of grudges and practicing forgiveness. Holding onto anger or resentment is harmful in the long run. It’s important to know when it’s time to forgive. Forgiving others can create healing and free up emotional space for compassion. It’s equally as important to practice self-forgiveness, releasing oneself from unnecessary blame.

Cultivate compassion beyond humans — This extends to animals and the environment. Reducing waste, conserving water and treating animals with care are ways to practice compassion for the world.

Compassion helps us connect on a deeper level, fosters a sense of empathy and motivates us to act with kindness, understanding and patience. This practice requires effort and mindfulness as the rewards are immeasurable — both for those we help and for ourselves. It doesn’t take much to change the world, but one could try starting with one small act. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Women’s history month

March 12, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Content warning: this article discusses violence against women

Women have always played a vital role in shaping the world. Despite often being overlooked in historical narratives, women’s contributions have been foundational in politics, culture, science and society. March marks the annual celebration of Women’s History Month and the continuation of defying limitations, overcoming adversity and transforming communities. As we remember the trailblazers who came before, the fight for equality continues.

In the first wave of feminism, women fought for the 19th Amendment — ensuring the right to vote — alongside the right to education, the right to own property and the right to be legally recognized as independent people instead of property. Although the first wave is mainly remembered for its fight to vote, this period in time encapsulated challenging societal norms and breaking free from rigid domestic spheres. It took time for women’s voices to finally be heard in meaningful ways, but it was crucial for gender equality. Some notable first wave activist women included Susan B. Anthony, Emmeline Pankhurst, Sojourner Truth, Margaret Sanger, Jeannette Rankin, Maria Stewart, Dr. Mabel Ping-Hua Lee and Frances E.W. Harper.

During the second wave of feminism, Title VII — which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in employment — and Title IX — which prohibits sex-based discrimination in education — were passed in the ‘60s and ‘70s. The National Organization of Women was created in 1966, aiming to make women’s participation possible in all aspects of American life and to gain all the rights enjoyed by men. During this time, women couldn’t open credit cards in their own names — separate from their husbands — until 1974. Many of the modern day stereotypes of feminists — anti-family, bra burners, butch, lesbians and man-haters  — come from the second wave. There were other protests and conversations regarding race, equal pay, abortion, birth control and other reproductive rights. Some influential women from the second wave included Betty Friedan, Gloria Steinem, Kate Millett and Jane Fonda.

The third wave of feminism focused on inclusion — which was what the previous waves struggled with — and recognizing that oppression can take many forms and will affect different people in different ways. During the ‘90s, society saw the rise of both “girly feminism,” or “lipstick feminism,” and “grrrl power.” This type focused on the belief that women can be feminists and still embrace their femininity. Grrrl power is also known as feminist punk bands that began in the PNW. This radical movement combined feminism, punk, music and politics, with the goal of challenging patriarchal standards. This wave focused on empowering women by acknowledging that, when one is free to choose their own path, their choice is a valid expression of one’s values and desires as a woman. Some important women during this time include Anita Hill, the Guerrilla Girls, Bikini Kill, Madonna, Queen Latifah, the American Girl dolls and Mary J. Blige.  

We are considered to be in the fourth wave of feminism. A consistent concern throughout the waves is access to reproductive healthcare. Some of the most notable events in the fourth wave include the 2004 March for Women’s Lives, the #MeToo movement — a way for young women of color to share their stories, specifically to promote the idea of “empowerment through empathy,” TIME’S UP organization — the take back the workplace protest — and “enough is enough,” where women insist upon a world where work is safe, fair and dignified for all kinds of people. The biggest protest happened Jan. 19, 2017: the Women’s March on Washington. This was the largest single day protest in U.S. history, with an estimated 3.3-5 million protesters nationwide. This march included many other issues — racial equity, immigration reform, reproductive rights, the environment and LGBTQ rights. Influential women and advocates are Madeleine Albright, Tarana Burke, Alyssa Milano, Kamala Harris and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. 

The fight for women’s rights and respect continues. A huge issue in society is widespread gender-based violence. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 24 people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking, one in three women have experienced rape, physical violence and/or stalking and one in six college women have been sexually abused in a relationship.

There are other frightening statistics, but work is being done through education and legislation. The Violence Against Women Act provides housing protections for those who’ve experienced domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking to keep them safe and reduce the likelihood of experiencing homelessness.

There are many other problems, including a persistent gender pay gap, a lack of representation of women in leadership positions, limitations on reproductive rights, societal pressures around gender roles and equal access to education and healthcare — particularly in marginalized communities.

Here are some suggestions on how to participate in celebrating Women’s History Month:

Learn about notable women in history —

Read books — “The Radium Girls,” “I Am Malala,” “Feminism Is for Everybody,” “A Black Women’s History of the United States,” “Hidden Figures,” “She Persisted,” “The Joy Luck Club”

Movies — “Respect,” “Girlfriends,” “9 to 5,” “Thelma and Louise,” “A League of Their Own,” “Erin Brockovich,” “Brave,” “Promising Young Woman,” “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” “The Color Purple,” “Frida,” “Mona Lisa Smile”

Support women-owned business — Donate to organizations that empower women and help support women in business.

Volunteer for women’s causes — Women’s shelters or organizations that focus on the empowerment of women and donate to women’s health organizations.

Celebrate women in your life — Personal celebrations can be as meaningful as public ones, like writing a letter or sending a card to women who’ve made a positive impact on one’s life, like family, friends, mentors or colleagues. Host a celebration or gathering with women who inspire you, such as lunch or coffee. Express appreciation for women in the workplace or community who are often behind the scenes.

Celebrating the intersectionality of women — Supporting intersectional feminist organizations that advocate for causes such as the rights of women of color, LGBTQ+ women and disabled women; reading works by women from diverse backgrounds to better understand the unique challenges they face; listening to voices from marginalized communities and making sure that their stories are part of the conversation during Women’s History Month are all great steps.

At times it can be exhausting just being a woman. America Ferrera said it best, “It is literally impossible to be a woman. … We have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we’re always doing it wrong.” There are so many contradictory expectations for being a woman, which results in feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. In a world full of men, women just want to exist without being leered at, talked down to, cat-called, objectified, harassed, assaulted, raped, murdered.

Celebrating Women’s History Month is about more than just acknowledging the past — it’s about inspiring the present and future. As we continue to break down societal barriers, the stories of women serve as a powerful reminder of strength, resilience and the ongoing pursuit of equality. By reflecting on the progress made and acknowledging the work that’s yet to come, we can ensure that Women’s History Month has a lasting impact beyond just one month of recognition. Any student needing extra support or resources should check out the Abby’s House, Center for Equity & Gender Justice; The Student Health and Counseling Center and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Renaissance faires

March 12, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

For those who’ve wanted to step into a land of splendor and mystery, Renaissance faires offer an enchanting escape. These lively gatherings transport those who enter to a land of history, fantasy and fun. Whether thou art drawn to the melodious strains of medieval music, the spectacle of knights jousting or the allure of fine attire, Renaissance faires deliver an experience like no other. 

At the core of a Renaissance faire, tis’ a grand celebration of the culture, customs and way of life from the Renaissance period — 14-17th centuries. Each event seeks to recreate the very sights, sounds and spirit of that age, though they mix in a dose of fantastical elements —  mythical beasts, modern pop culture and fair folk. Imagine a small, bustling village straight out of the Renaissance, with merchants peddling their wares, entertainers performing for passersby and knights competing in grand tournaments. All come dressed in elaborate costumes, contributing to the immersive experience. It isn’t simply just a day out, but rather about stepping into a world where time feels suspended. 

Some things one should expect at a Renaissance faire:

Costumes and Immersion — The first to strike one’s eye is the garb — clothing. Period costumes are extremely popular, from elaborate gowns and corsets to tunics and breeches. Some hard-core ren fairers go all out with full Renaissance-style attire, complete with accessories — hats, jewelry and swords. For those who want to participate but don’t have a costume, many faires offer costume rentals. 

Jousting and Games — At the hearts of many is the ultimate spectacle of jousting. Knights in shining armor, mounted upon their steeds, charging at each other with lances, vying for victory and the audience cheers as the riders compete for eternal glory. There is also ground fighting — where fighters engage in close-quarters combat. The competitions can make one feel as if they’ve fallen into the movie “A Knight’s Tale” or “Shrek.” Many faires feature games and contests like archery and axe throwing. These activities offer one some Renaissance-era skills with friendly competition and lots of laughs. 

Live Performances and Merriment — Entertainment is the very soul of the Renaissance experience. One could watch a live performance of Shakespearean plays, enjoy a musical performance by a lute, harp or fiddle player or witness a merry jest from a troupe of clowns in the town square. 

Food and Drink — No faire would be complete without its food. Many serve classic Renaissance-inspired dishes —  turkey legs, roasted meats and hearty stews are found in abundance. Vendors sell pastries, pies, sweets and drinks to tempt any who may pass by. 

Artisan and Craft Markets — Anyone who enjoys browsing unique, handmade goods will find pleasure at the faire’s market. From jewelry and pottery to leather goods and hand-carved wooden items, one can find exactly what they will need to add to their collection. Many vendors specialize in creating products that are historically inspired, and they often take the time to explain the techniques and craftsmanship behind their work. Keep in mind that handmade, intricate products last long and thus will be more on the expensive side.

There are many Renaissance faires from which one may choose. Herein lies a list of the various locations, with their respective details. 

Oregon Ren Faire — In Canby, Oregon at the fairgrounds. Every Sabbath in the month of June; with a new theme each week. Tickets must be obtained only through the internet and are priced at 20-30 shillings per soul.

Canterbury Renaissance Faire — In Silverton, Oregon. On the days of the 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 26th and 27th of July. Tickets may be obtained both on-site and through the internet; priced at 27 shillings per soul and an extra 10 shillings to park on the grounds.

Portland Celtic Faire — In Hillsboro, Oregon. In the month of August (date to be determined). Entry is free to all. 

Oregon Celtic Festival — In Canby, Oregon at the fairgrounds. 13-15th day of September. Tickets must be obtained only through the internet and are priced at 45-65 shillings per soul.

Shrewsbury Renaissance Faire — In Kings Valley, Oregon. 14th day unto the 15th day of September. Tickets can be obtained both in person and online; priced at 22 shillings per soul.

With the locations aforementioned, I would most heartily recommend the Canterbury Ren Faire and the Shrewsbury Ren Faire for those first-time visitors. I had an absolute blast at these noble gatherings. They’re both reasonably priced, especially when each vendor and food stall requires money. I found the ground fights and jousting quite joyous. Everything is professionally choreographed so thou dost not need to fret. Yet, it did appear that at the Shrewsbury Ren Faire, they don’t hold back on their jousting matches. Aside from the performances, the intricate, handmade products were most captivating. There be garb, cups, weapons, adornments, works of art, instruments and jewels aplenty. Nearly all that one’s heart might desire may be found at a ren faire market. I advise thee to be methodical, I found several accessories by going through, and taking my time at the stalls. Of the two I’ve listed, Canterbury offers the finest selection and most diverse variety of vendors. As for sustenance, one may choose among many classics, turkey legs, stews, pickles, meat pies and scotch eggs. I shall always advocate for a meat pie, scotch egg and the famous pickle. Anyone who has ventured to a Ren faire knows full well to acquire a pickle. Under the burning sun, a cold, refreshing pickle doth truly satisfies thy spirit. Running out of energy, halfway through the vendors? Get a pickle, it’s as if it has some weird energizing power. 

Lastly, I shall impart a humbler piece of advice to all who venture to a Renaissance faire: please dress up. Dressing up is a game changer and it makes the experience feel that much more “real.” I went in full garb that I sewed with my grandmother and fell in love with the immersive experience. Keep in mind, these gatherings often occur during the hottest of seasons, and a heaving costume is not for the faint of heart. There are several ways to create a ren faire cosplay. Look at antique and junk stores for unique, budget-friendly accessories. Thrift to find “olden” style clothing or any kind that fits one’s ren faire aesthetic. Or, one could simply wait until arriving at the faire to buy an outfit. Keep in mind that this is a very expensive option. Always look for natural fabrics like cotton, linen and silk. 

In an age of digital distractions, constant news updates, and the hustle and bustle of daily life, stepping back in time provides a welcome break for one to enjoy the magic of a simpler, albeit fictional, time. A wondrous escape where the spirit of merriment, craft and history intertwine. Gather thy companions and partake in joyous occasions, where the echoes of a bygone era live on in celebration and camaraderie — huzzah.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

License plate options in Oregon

March 5, 2025

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

Most commonly, drivers in Oregon showcase that baby blue plate boasting a Douglas Fir between navy letters and numbers. This is the standard plate for Oregon — licensing more than 3.5 million vehicles after being introduced in 1988.

For a relatively cheap fee, that plate can be swapped out for other designs, such as a gray whale, salmon, Smokey Bear, an Oregon Trail Blazers logo, Crater Lake and other various wildlife.

Most recently, Oregon is selling vouchers for a new plate — featuring important shark species that live off of the Oregon coast to help promote awareness and generate funding for the Big Fish Lab, which studies those exact shark populations. The Big Fish Lab, based in Newport, Oregon, is the only dedicated shark research program in the state and has only been around since 2019.

The plate, titled “Vibrant Ocean,” shows off a large salmon shark, front and center, with blue sharks and a common thresher shark in the background. Each voucher costs $40, with $35 going to the lab. 3,000 vouchers must be sold before the plates are produced. 

April 7, 2025, will see the addition of an Oregon State University-themed license plate for sale, supporting Oregon State University’s athletics. Other plates, such as “Pollinator Paradise” — a wildflower and bee design — support other areas of Oregon State University, with “Pollinator Paradise” going directly to bee research occurring at the college.

Interestingly, “Pollinator Paradise” was created by 16-year-old Marek Stanton. “Vibrant Ocean” was designed by Natalie Donato, a third-year student at Oregon State University’s College of Science, studying marine biology.

Allegedly, Oregon’s “Smokey Bear” plate is most popular among the additional choices. It won the Best Plate Award in 2019 from the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association. Previously, the “Crater Lake” plate won in 2002; it was also the most popular purchased plate until “Smokey Bear.” “Smokey Bear” has continued to raise money for the Keep Oregon Green Association and remains available alongside “Crater Lake” for purchase.

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@wou.edu

Sustainable living

March 5, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

In today’s time, where convenience often takes precedence, the need for sustainable living has never been more urgent. With climate change, resource depletion and pollution on the rise, adopting a more sustainable lifestyle is a crucial step in helping protect our planet for future generations. Living sustainably doesn’t require a drastic overhaul of one’s life, small everyday changes can make a significant impact. 

Embrace minimalism and reduce waste — One of the core principles of sustainable living is minimizing waste. In our consumer-driven society, it’s easy to accumulate items we don’t need, contributing to unnecessary waste. Buying less, choosing quality over quantity and thinking critically about our purchases is of the utmost importance. One should opt for reusable items over single-use products. This could be using a stainless-steel water bottle instead of plastic ones or using reusable bags instead of relying on plastic bags. A little effort can significantly cut down on the waste one produces and can make a big difference in the long run. 

Support eco-friendly products and brands — Sustainability extends to the products one buys too. As consumers, we have the power to influence companies by choosing to support those that prioritize the environment. Look for items made from sustainable materials like bamboo, organic cotton or recycled products. This also includes choosing brands that are committed to ethical production practices, reducing their carbon footprint and using eco-friendly packaging. Additionally, buying from local sources, such as farmers markets, can help to reduce the environmental impact by minimizing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.

Energy efficiency at home — One’s home is one of the easiest places to implement sustainability practices. Simple changes can be switching to LED bulbs, unplugging devices when they are not in use and keeping the lights off during the day. 

Adopting sustainable eating habits — The food choices we make have a profound effect on the planet. Agriculture, particularly the meat industry, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and water pollution. A way to reduce one’s environmental impact is by incorporating more plant-based meals. This doesn’t mean fully becoming vegetarian or vegan, but reducing one’s consumption of meat and dairy can be helpful in living more sustainably. It is also heart healthy. Supporting sustainable farming practices is another way to make one’s food choices more eco-friendly. Look for certifications like organic, fair trade and pasture-raised, which indicate more environmentally responsible practices. 

Transportation: walk, bike and carpool — Transportation is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions. With such a small campus, walking or biking whenever possible is better for both the environment and for one’s physical health. When driving is necessary, consider carpooling or using public transit. Reducing the number of vehicles on the road helps cut down on air pollution and reduces traffic congestion. 

Sustainable living doesn’t require radical changes, but it does require mindfulness. A willingness to make small adjustments has a collectively large impact. It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s situation is different. Some barriers to living sustainably include cost considerations, convenience, misinformation and time constraints. Any step, no matter how small, has the potential for a huge impact on the planet and the animals that occupy its space. The average person does not produce the majority of pollution and harm the environment, but, unfortunately, the responsibility falls on us. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Daylight saving time

March 5, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Sunday, March 9, 2025, the clocks will “spring forward.” This typically happens on the second Sunday in March, and is practiced to make better use of daylight during the longer days of spring and summer by shifting an hour of daylight from the morning to the evening. This means that the clocks on March 9 will jump to 3 a.m. instead of going through the second hour. Springing forward is paired with “falling back,” which happens in the fall — hence the name. Most might feel groggy and out of sync during this time due to the interruption of the circadian rhythm. The body operates on a natural sleep-wake cycle influenced by light and darkness. This jump in time can cause one’s internal clock to get out of sync. Preparing for springing forward doesn’t have to be difficult. One can ease into the time change with some simple steps. 

Gradually adjust sleep schedule — Begin by shifting one’s bedtime and wake-up time 15 minutes earlier each day. Incremental change helps the body to gradually adapt to the new time, so it doesn’t shock one’s system when the clock jumps forward. To make things easier, avoid using phones or other electronic devices before bed, as blue light can interfere with the natural sleep cycle.

Get plenty of sunlight — Exposure to natural light plays a crucial role in regulating one’s internal body clock — circadian rhythm. The more sunlight one gets, the easier it will be for the body to adapt to the time change. As the days get longer, spend some time outdoors in the morning and early afternoon. Morning sunlight resets the circadian rhythm, signaling that it’s time to wake up and be active. 

Stay active — Physical activity plays an important role in helping the body adjust to the time change. Exercising in the late afternoon or early evening can help one to feel more awake and energized during the day, while also promoting better sleep at night. A light walk or stretching exercises can make a significant difference in how one feels. Be sure to avoid intense workouts too close to bedtime, as they can interfere with one’s ability to sleep. 

Monitor diet — Eating habits can have a surprising effect on how well one can adjust to daylight saving time. In the days leading up to the time change, one should try to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Foods that are rich in magnesium — leafy greens, nuts and seeds — and melatonin — cherries or almonds — can promote better sleep. 

Prepare your environment — One’s sleep environment is key to getting quality rest. Make sure one’s bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. Consider black out curtains or an eye mask to block out the early morning light and try using a white noise machine or earplugs if one is sensitive to nighttime noises. 

Stay hydrated — Dehydration can make one feel sluggish and tired. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid alcohol or excessive caffeine, which can dehydrate and disrupt sleep. 

Although springing forward during daylight saving time can disrupt one’s routine, taking some simple steps can make a world of difference. Gradually adjusting sleep, getting more sunlight, staying active, monitoring one’s diet and staying hydrated while preparing one’s personal environment are some of the ways that one could prepare. As we look forward to nicer weather, springing forward in time is a small bump in the road. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@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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