Western Oregon University – The Western Howl

Cozy for the winter

A still from Studio Ghibli’s film “My Neighbor Totoro.” | Photo from @ghibliusa on Instagram

Jan. 28, 2026 | Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

It’s late winter. The excitement for the holidays has come and gone, and there’s limited sunshine to keep the doom and gloom away. My favorite thing to do to shake the frost? Watch some of the coziest movies out there with a blanket and a mug of tea.

“Pride and Prejudice” — Based on the Jane Austen novel of the same name, “Pride and Prejudice” follows Lizzie Bennet and her sister Jane in the English countryside during the Regency era. With a piano-led score and warm ambience, “Pride and Prejudice” perfectly encapsulates longing, restraint and a slow-burning romance, while also bringing to mind a warm summer or spring day. “Pride and Prejudice” is streaming on Apple TV and Prime Video for $3.99.

“My Neighbor Totoro” — One of Hayao Miyazaki’s most popular films, “My Neighbor Totoro” follows Satsuki and Mei when they move to the countryside while their mother is in the hospital. As they explore their new home, they discover forest spirits, including the fluffy, cat-like Totoro. This movie is cozy because there’s no big villain; it’s just two sisters exploring their home and enjoying the small moments. The film is slow-paced, and nothing is rushed, with sunlit fields and dust floating in the air. Nature becomes a soft place to rest, and the magical creatures are gentle forest spirits — especially Totoro, who is more like a giant stuffed animal. “My Neighbor Totoro” is streaming on HBO Max, along with other Studio Ghibli movies.

“The Lord of the Rings” — Adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s trilogy, “The Lord of the Rings” follows Frodo Baggins as he sets off to destroy the One Ring. The films are drenched in a palette of antique light — soft golds, mossy greens and pale silvery-blues — with a sweeping soundtrack by Howard Shore, filled with string instruments and haunting vocals. The films themselves are about how even the smallest person can change the world and focus on the small in the wake of the huge. After all, Samwise Gamgee says it best in “The Return of the King”: “Do you remember the Shire, Mr. Frodo? It’ll be spring soon, and the orchards will be in blossom. And the birds will be nesting in the hazel thicket. And they’ll be sowing the summer barley in the lower fields. And they’ll be eating the first of the strawberries with cream. Do you remember the taste of strawberries?” All three movies in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy — both theatrical and extended editions — are streaming on HBO Max and Prime Video.

“Hook” — A modern retelling of “Peter Pan,” this film answers the question “What if Peter Pan grew up?” The whole movie feels like a fairytale, wrapped in pure ‘90s and childhood nostalgia. With Robin Williams as Peter Pan, Dustin Hoffman as Captain Hook and Julia Roberts as Tinkerbell, “Hook” is full of familiar faces. The design is storybook-soft with glowing pixie dust, flying pirate ships and colorful sets, creating the feeling of stepping into a stage play. Besides, at its core, “Hook” isn’t just about fighting pirates and magic. It’s about believing in oneself, rediscovering the sense of childhood wonder and reconnecting with those closest. “Hook” is streaming on Apple TV and Prime Video for $3.99.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Portland Cascade

Jan. 28 2026 | Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

On Jan. 13, it was announced that Portland will be home to one of the six teams from the Athletes Unlimited Softball League, or AUSL.

Portland is already a prolific city when it comes to women’s professional sports. The Portland Thorns, which play in the National Women’s Soccer League, have been a big name in the state since 2012, with notable players from Team USA rounding out their roster. In September 2025, Portland Thorns owner RAJ Sports, led by the brother-sister duo of Alex Bhathal and Lisa Bhathal Merage, also bought the rights to a WNBA expansion team, the Portland Fire, which will begin its inaugural season in May this year. Portland even has The Sports Bra, a sports bar dedicated to showcasing women’s collegiate and professional sports. The AUSL Portland Cascade is the newest team to join this lineup.

In 2024, the AUSL began its first season with four teams playing round robin-style games on its touring season. Each team was named for its captain, typically the pitcher or catcher, and was packed with the best names of collegiate softball. During the season, the AUSL picked up traction, and it was soon announced that the league would have its inaugural season in 2025, with the four teams being renamed to the Volts, the Bandits, the Blaze and the Talons. This inaugural season also meant a partnership with the MLB, with the league investing in the AUSL to help establish it as a sustainable organization.

Late 2025 meant that two expansion teams were announced, along with the league moving to become city-based rather than touring-based. The Oklahoma City Spark was the first team to establish its headquarters in the aforementioned city, known as the home of the College Softball World Series. The other five teams had to wait until 2026 to announce their home cities.

The Portland Cascade will play at Hillsboro Ballpark, which is the home of the Minor League Baseball Hillsboro Hops. Hillsboro Ballpark is currently under construction, which came after the MLB changed ballpark standards for minor league teams in 2021, forcing the team to build a new venue altogether. However, the ballpark will be completed in time for the Hops and the Cascade to begin their 2026 seasons in April and June, respectively. The stadium is 229,000 square feet and can hold up to 6,000 fans for games and 7,000 for concerts, costing Hops ownership, the state of Oregon and the city of Hillsboro a combined $150 million.

The Cascade boasts a strong lineup, including standouts Sam Landry, fresh from the University of Oklahoma, and Sis Bates, a former University of Washington player. Both received multiple All-American awards during their collegiate careers, while Landry boasts an NCAA National Championship with Oklahoma, and Bates brings multiple defensive player of the year titles, including the AUSL’s defensive MVP award in her rookie season. Both Landry and Bates played for the Volts in the 2025 season.

The storied Tairia Flowers was announced as the Cascade’s head coach. During her time with Team USA softball, Flowers won gold at the Athens Olympics, silver at the Beijing Olympics and gold in the 2002 and 2006 Softball World Championships. In her coaching career for Team USA, Flowers has played multiple roles, including head coach, assistant coach and selection committee member.

The Cascade will play the season opener in Durham, North Carolina June 9 against the Carolina Blaze, and their home opener June 18 against the Oklahoma City Spark.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

‘Is that your phone?’ The ‘dumbphone’ trend, explained

Graphic of flip phone | Graphic made by Addison Watts

Nov 5 2025 | Kiera Roedel | Copy Editor

Stop me if this sounds familiar: it’s late at night and there are assignments that need to get done, but it’s impossible to put down the smartphone. This type of situation is all too common for college students, prompting questions about social media addiction and the need to do a “digital detox.” While some people simply set screen-time limits on their phones and stay mindful of the time they spend scrolling, a growing number — including myself — have taken the next step: going back to a time before smartphones.

The “dumbphone” trend has been gaining prevalence online over the past couple of years, mostly due to its nostalgic or aesthetic value. But dumbphones, defined as cell phones without easy access to an app store or modern web-based apps, have legitimate utility as a means to get off social media and spend more time living in the real world.

I’ve spent over a year using a flip phone as my main device. It has access to the following functions: calling, texting, a two-megapixel — yes, two — camera, an MP3 player and some basic utilities like a calculator and calendar. It also has a simple web browser that’s too slow and outdated to even load the front page of Reddit. And that’s literally it. No Instagram, no TikTok, no DoorDash, no Google Maps, no Spotify and no way to download or access any of those services. The vast reduction in available apps and connectivity is definitely an adjustment.

Regardless, there are some notable advantages to using a dumbphone. For one, it’s apparent immediately upon switching just how much time people spend on their phones. In the time between classes, in the library, at meals — it feels like nobody even bothers to look up. Recapturing those lost minutes declutters my brain and is very refreshing.

Second is the nostalgic or aesthetic value that I mentioned. I won’t lie — I didn’t initially switch to a flip phone because I felt the need to digitally detox. It was because I felt nostalgia for the time when “cell phone” meant a weird plastic trinket that people could fiddle with in bizarre ways to expose extra screens and keyboards. Using a flip phone nowadays allows me to recapture a little bit of that feeling.

A third benefit is the cost. In a time when a new iPhone or top-of-the-line Samsung can easily run over $800, being able to pick up a flip phone from a department store for under $50 is a breath of fresh air. Mine cost $19.99 from Tracfone, and I’m still using it a year and a half later. That’s just an objectively good deal.

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows in the dumbphone world. For one thing, missing out on things that people have come to consider basic utilities, like Google Maps, really stings. It can be seen as another part of the package — learning to navigate alone or by paper map is, in a sense, just another part of the digital detox. And some app-based services have alternatives, like the fact that anyone can call a phone number to get an Uber, no app required.

I haven’t totally gotten rid of my smartphone. I still use it for things like my D&D character sheet and for when I need to take a picture that isn’t insufferably — yet aesthetically — grainy. But the opportunity to leave that toxic glass brick in a drawer where it belongs the majority of the time is a truly eye-opening experience.

Contact the author at howlcopyeditor@wou.edu

Spooky treats

A photo of Burgerville’s Vampire Slayer Cheeseburger and sweet potato fries. | Photo by Belen Ponce Leal

Oct 29 2025 | Belen Ponce Leal | Lifestyle Editor

It’s always interesting to see what kind of menus companies can come up with for a spooky season. Whether it be dyed foods designed to look like pumpkins, sweet ice cream treats with candy bits in them or some locally sourced ingredients used creatively, there is no end to the trend. I thought it would be interesting to discover what kind of spooky-themed foods to try out before the end of the month.

Burger King is well known for their advertising of their special limited-time menus. Right now, they have what they call the “monster menu.” The main staple of the menu is the Jack-O’-Lantern Whopper. It is a version of their famous Whopper burger with a “naturally colored orange bun” with black sesame seeds. While it does have a festive appearance, it has been described by many as tasting basically the same as a regular Whopper burger. Some other items they are selling are Vampire Nuggets, Mummy Mozzarella Fries, the Franken-Candy Sundae and, at certain locations, a trick-or-treat basket.

At the moment, McDonald’s might not have much of a Halloween menu as they are currently focused on their Monopoly-themed one, but the Boo Buckets have returned once again. During October, McDonald’s will give out Happy Meals in what is called a Boo Bucket. They are plastic containers that can double as trick-or-treat buckets. The classic designs have returned, which are the ghost, pumpkin and goblin. However, there are two new additions to the roster this year, which are a black cat and a zombie bucket.

IHOP has come out with some delicious pancake flavors for the season. Obviously, the pumpkin spice pancakes have returned, with the option to make them a short or full stack. They have been described as tasting very good, soft and buttery. The item that I find the most interesting and most delicious is the coffee cake pancakes. Made with cinnamon streusel, cinnamon spread layering and cream cheese icing, these coffee cake pancakes have a delicious crumbly texture.

Burgerville is known throughout Monmouth for being a great place to eat, as it prides itself on locally sourcing its ingredients. All their food is fresh and delicious throughout the year.

Their seasonal menu is composed of their pumpkin shake, apple crumble sundae, harvest cider iced tea, sweet potato fries and, their star of the menu, the Vampire Slayer Cheeseburger. This burger, along with all of their others, has a pasture-raised natural beef patty. The cheese on the burger is called Face Rock Vampire Slayer Cheddar, which is cheddar with a strong dose of garlic in it. That, combined with arugula, which is a leafy green vegetable with a sort of peppery, nutty flavor, makes the burger a fantastic mix of various flavors.

Every restaurant has a different strength, whether it be in design or flavor. I love how every year Burger King can come up with a menu that looks amazing, and even though it doesn’t taste very different, it is at least aesthetically pleasing. I also enjoy how Burgerville can come up with some amazing combinations of flavors in their burger while still being naturally sourced. While not all seasonal food is created equal, it is always endearing to see what companies can come up with to create delicious and good-looking cuisine.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

The haunting history

A photo of Halloween yard decorations. | Photo from @halloweenperfection on Instagram

Oct 29, 2025 | Belen Ponce Leal | Lifestyle Editor

Halloween is known throughout the United States as the spookiest time of the year; the time when children go door-to-door wearing costumes that range from cute to scary, candy is given out and scares are plotted throughout the night. Despite its popularity, many don’t know the origins of this holiday that has developed and changed throughout the centuries.

The origins of Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which is still celebrated today by Pagans. Over 2,000 years ago, the Celts and the druids celebrated the new year Nov. 1. Samhain, which translates to “summer’s end” in Gaelic, marked the end of the harvest, meaning winter was about to begin. Winter was seen as a time of death, where the veil between the living and the dead thins to allow supernatural forces to wander the earth. The people would gather to burn crops and offer animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities. Additionally, those who were thinking of their lost loved ones would use candles and bonfires to guide them to the afterlife.

Others would wear costumes to scare the bad spirits and demons away. However, some believed that doing this would allow them to be able to tell each other’s future. The Celtic priests believed that due to the presence of otherworldly beings on the earth, their predictions would hold more weight. After the festival was over, they would take flames from the bonfires and light their own hearths with them. It was believed that the fire would protect them from the incoming winter.

In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III proclaimed Nov. 1 “All Saints’ Day,” which honors not only the saints, but also the martyrs. Then, in the year 1000, the church made Nov. 2 “All Souls’ Day,” a day that honors the dead. It is believed that the church did this to replace the Celtic festival with a Christian-sanctioned holiday.

It incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain, like big bonfires, celebrations and dressing up in costumes as beings like devils, saints and angels. The night before, which was originally Samhain, began to be called “All-Hallows Eve.”

When people began immigrating to the US, which at the time was the 13 colonies, All-Hallows Eve began to change. As the customs of European ethnic groups and Native Americans clashed, “Halloween” began to emerge.

The first celebrations of the tradition were known as “play parties,” which were events held to celebrate the harvest. Neighbors shared stories of the dead and would try to tell each other’s fortunes.

Trick-or-treating is based on European traditions where Americans began dressing up in costumes and going door-to-door to ask for food or money, which eventually became the trick-or-treating recognized today.

Jack-o’-lanterns come from a tradition in Ireland that came over with Irish immigrants. It is said that there was a man known as “Stingy Jack,” who would trap the devil multiple times throughout his life, keeping him captive until he promised Jack he wouldn’t go to hell. However, when the time came for Jack’s death, he found out that he wasn’t allowed to go to heaven either, so he was doomed to wander the earth forever. The devil supposedly gave Jack a burning lump of coal in a hollowed-out turnip to be his makeshift lantern.

Therefore, the locals began carving spooky faces into their own vegetables to frighten away the spirits from their homes. When immigrants moved to the U.S., the Irish brought the tradition with them. Since pumpkins are native to North America, they decided to switch from turnips to pumpkins; thus, the Jack-o’-laturns that are known today were born.

While Halloween isn’t the same as Samhain in the traditional sense, the holiday still carries that same spirit expressed by the druids and the Celts. It celebrates the time in the year where the leaves change color, the harvest comes in for the final time and everyone does their best to deal with mischievous spirits, whether it be a ghost, a demon or a roommate who wants to scare someone into a heart attack.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Let’s get physical

April 2, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Let’s get physical; cardiovascular health refers to the health of the heart and blood vessels. Its system circulates blood, oxygen and nutrients through the body. It’s important to maintain good cardiovascular health in order to prevent disease later in life. It also helps to improve energy levels and overall well-being. With our generation taking health and exercise seriously, it may feel like we have forgotten the importance of cardio while prioritizing strength training.

There are many benefits of cardiovascular health, with the biggest being that it prevents heart disease and stroke. Unfortunately, heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, but it’s completely preventable with a healthy lifestyle. Focusing on cardiovascular health maintains a strong heart and clear arteries, which reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes and hypertension. With preventing heart disease comes keeping one’s cholesterol and blood pressure in check. Plaque tends to build up in one’s arteries when they live a sedentary lifestyle. Taking a proactive approach to cardiovascular health can add years to one’s life. A second benefit is that it can boost energy and stamina. When a healthy heart is able to pump blood more efficiently, the muscles and organs get more oxygen and nutrients. When someone gets more oxygen and nutrients, they will feel more alert, active and energized throughout the day.

When one focuses on their cardiovascular health, there are other personal benefits, such as enhanced brain function, increased quality of life and improved sleep. Working on our cardiovascular health reduces inflammation and stress on the heart, which in turn can lower the risk of certain illnesses, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. With the improvement of one’s quality of life, those who tend to their cardiovascular health can reduce their anxiety and possibly alleviate some of the symptoms associated with depression. With regard to improving our sleep quality, poor cardiovascular health can directly lead to sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea and insomnia. Improving one’s cardiovascular health works to regulate sleep cycles and improve feelings of restfulness.

As some may want to improve their cardiovascular health, it’s crucial to understand the detrimental effects of poor cardiovascular health. Ignoring this portion of our health can lead to serious, life altering consequences. When one is neglectful, it can lead to an increased risk of stroke, chronic fatigue, low energy levels, poor mental health, increased stress, blood clots and the possible risk of permanent disability. All of this can result in a weakened immune system and a shorter life expectancy.

Understanding the impacts cardiovascular health has on our lives, there are many workouts that help to improve one’s cardiovascular health. Cardio exercises are also known as aerobic exercises, which help to strengthen one’s heart, improve circulation and boost overall endurance. Here’s a list of some of the most flexible and popular exercises one could try.

Walking — This is typically seen as the first step in cardiovascular disease prevention. This low-impact, beginner friendly exercise helps to reduce stress and improve circulation.

Jogging or running — This is what comes to mind when someone hears the word “cardio.” It is easily adjustable between participating outdoors or on the treadmill. Along with walking, these exercises improve one’s lung function, heart rate and endurance levels.

Cycling — Strengthening leg muscles, this low-impact exercise is great for joint health.

Swimming — This exercise works the whole body while also being easy on one’s joints. It is ideal for all fitness levels and is a great way to beat the heat in the coming months.

Dancing — This exercise is a fun and engaging way to get one’s heart pumping. It improves coordination and flexibility which can be done alone or in a group.

High intensity interval training — This last workout consists of short bursts of intense exercise followed by rest. This means that one would burn more calories in less time, boosting metabolism.

Cardiovascular health is not just about avoiding disease — it’s about living one’s best life. A strong heart leads to more energy, better brain function, improved mood and a longer, healthier future. Taking small steps today can make a huge difference in one’s heart’s health over time.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Coastal health benefits

April 2, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

About an hour away from Western is the Oregon coast. Its scenic beauty is a natural sanctuary that offers powerful benefits for the mind, body and soul. The combination of fresh air, ocean waves and natural surroundings can enhance one’s well-being, reduce stress and promote a healthier lifestyle.

The coast provides many benefits, but boosting mental health is among the most important. Where the water meets land promotes mindfulness, which helps people disconnect from their responsibilities and daily pressures. Its rhythmic waves have a calming effect on the brain, reducing anxiety and stress. Spending time at the coast fosters a deeper connection to nature and encourages environmental awareness. As the protections on our natural environments are not as strong as they once were, it’s important to take time to enjoy the simpler things in life, and the coastal environment is reminiscent of a simpler yet fulfilling life. The open horizon and vast ocean give a sense of freedom and perspective, making problems seem more manageable.

Another benefit of the coast is the improvement of physical health. Compared to walking on solid ground, walking or jogging on sand improves balance, strength and endurance due to the uneven terrain. Breathing in the salty air can clear the lungs, as it acts as a sort of natural decongestant, making it especially beneficial for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions. The coast also has activities like hiking and beach sports, making exercise feel more enjoyable rather than like a chore.

Immune and health benefits are a third benefit of the coast. The ocean breeze contains negatively charged ions, which improve oxygen absorption, boosting one’s mood. Studies suggest that people who live near the coast report higher levels of life satisfaction and lower levels of stress. The coast is typically exposed to more sunlight, and sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones, immune health and mood regulation. It also increases serotonin levels — a neurotransmitter that enhances mood and promotes feelings of happiness. Although the seawater is quite cold, it contains minerals like magnesium and iodine — promoting skin healing and circulation.

Lastly, fresh seafood is especially important for one’s health. Seafood is packed with essential nutrients that support overall health, making it one of the healthiest choices available. Its lean protein keeps one fuller for longer and reduces cravings. It also promotes heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease. With seafood being rich in omega-3s — DHA and EPA — it improves memory, focus and cognitive function. This in turn can reduce the risk of some neurodegenerative diseases. For those who workout, omega-3s speed up muscle recovery after exercise. These nutrient powerhouses support brain health, heart function, immunity, skin and one’s overall well-being.

Visiting the coast provides a natural escape that nurtures both the body and mind. In a world dominated by screens and schedules, the beach offers a digital detox and a chance to further one’s peace in a natural setting. Breathe in the salty air, let the waves wash away the stress and embrace the healing power of the ocean.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Inner peace in politics

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Politics can be hard to escape, and it’s been especially hard to find peace with what’s been happening lately in the world, whether it’s the latest elected official, new executive order, the ongoing ideological battles resulting in increasing polarization or the spread of misinformation. Politics have always been heated, but the most recent election has brought out the extremes. While it is important to stay informed, it’s also crucial to protect one’s mental and emotional peace. Here are some practical strategies to help navigate the chaotic world of politics without sacrificing one’s well-being.

Limit media consumption — Many things may feel out of control with the fast changes of this nation, but one thing we have control over is the amount of political news consumed. The media thrives on sensationalism. Constant exposure to negative headlines or partisan commentary can contribute to stress and anxiety, resulting in nihilism. Countering these negative impacts by setting a designated amount of time each day for political news can be beneficial. This could be looking at what’s going on during breakfast or after work, instead of doom scrolling throughout the day.

Another way is to be intentional about where one gets their news. Always choose reputable, balanced sources of information that focus on facts rather than emotion-driven content. Some news networks that are mostly unbiased include @realtalkingfish on Instagram, The Guardian, Associated Press, NPR and the Wall Street Journal.

Set boundaries with social media — Platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram often fuel polarizing political discourse. Political debates, heated arguments and the spread of misinformation can quickly turn “for you” pages into battlefields. While social media can be a powerful tool for staying informed, it can also become a toxic environment if not managed well.

One can take control by actively seeking out posts and discussions that promote healthy perspectives and unfollowing topics/accounts that trigger stress or anger. It is also important to know when to step back from platforms that no longer benefit one’s mental health. There’s nothing wrong with taking a digital detox every once in a while. Disconnecting from the online world helps to reset and refocus on different aspects of one’s life.

Engage in politics in moderation — While it’s important to be informed on what’s going on in the world, excessive engagement in politics can drain one’s energy. It’s extremely easy to fall down the rabbit hole of endless debates, commentary and updates. While it’s good to participate in democracy, it’s also okay to take a break from the constant political conversation. One should focus on meaningful conversations with others who respect differing opinions, and avoid conversations when they become toxic. Remember that one is allowed to step back and save energy for moments that matter most.

Prioritize self-care — With all of politics’ unpredictability and polarization, they can take a toll on one’s mental and emotional health. Self-care is an effective way to combat stress. One should take time for activities that bring joy and relaxation — reading a book, going for a walk, practicing yoga or spending time with friends and family. Exercise is also important for managing stress. Physical activity helps by releasing endorphins, which are the body’s natural form of stress relief. Also, when one is feeling overwhelmed by political events, one should consider practicing mindfulness and meditation to center oneself and become grounded.

Practice emotional detachment — This is one of the most effective ways to protect one’s peace. This doesn’t mean abandoning one’s values or disengaging from important causes. Instead, it prioritizes learning how to emotionally distance oneself from the turbulence of politics. It’s easy to feel personally affected by political decisions, especially when the stakes are high regarding the continued rights of specific minority groups. It’s also important to recognize which factors are beyond one’s control. Try adopting a mindset that accepts uncertainty and focuses on what one can control, such as how one reacts to political events. If a political event triggers anger or frustration, take a moment to acknowledge those feelings and decide the next step to take. This could simply be letting those feelings go, or taking a specific action.

Surround oneself with supportive people — One’s social circle can play a huge role in emotional well-being. Surround oneself with people who uplift and support instead of those who constantly push their political opinions or engage in unproductive discussions. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect. Nurturing friendships with people who value peace and personal boundaries can make the difference when trying to protect one’s sanity. If political discussion happens in group settings that make one uncomfortable, it’s okay to respectfully steer the conversation in a different direction or excuse oneself from the conversation altogether.

Find balance with perspective — It’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture when lost in the political noise. In the heat of the moment, political events can feel like life-and-death, but it’s important to maintain perspective. Take time to reflect on what’s truly important in one’s life — relationships, health, personal growth and emotional well-being. Although politics influence the world around us, they don’t have to define one’s happiness.

Engage in constructive conversations — When discussing politics with others, try to engage in constructive, respectful conversations rather than arguments. Try to avoid getting drawn into heated debates where emotions take control. One doesn’t have to agree with everyone, but it’s important to be able to be satisfied and proud of one’s actions and words. If one is ashamed at the end of the day, maybe it’s time to understand where one needs to change. If a discussion starts to get too intense, it’s okay to politely disengage. Protecting one’s peace sometimes means stepping away from situations that threaten emotional stability.

Politics in the United States can be overwhelming, but one doesn’t have to let them take a toll on their mental and emotional health. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that love is more powerful than hate, to stick to one’s values and to understand that some relationships are not as simple as a difference in ideas.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

Swoon-worthy romances

February 12, 2025

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

“Chestnut Springs” series by Elsie Silver — A five-book romance series, Silver’s books follow the Eaton family in their small town of Chestnut Springs, British Columbia. Whether looking for a cowboy, hockey or single-dad romance, this series has it all. If one is looking for a steamy romance with plenty of swoon-worthy moments, this series is geared in the right direction. If one is looking for more cowboy romance, check out Silver’s other series, “Rose Hill” and “Gold Rush Ranch.”

“This is How You Lose the Time War” by Amar El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone — All it took was one correspondence for two agents on opposite sides of a war to form an unlikely bond. One correspondence turned to many, transforming from taunting to flirting, then love. “This is How You Lose the Time War” is a sapphic novel that explores what it means to be soldiers on opposite sides of a war, and what will happen when that love brings them to choose each other over their empires. If one is looking for more sapphic romance, check out “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon.

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen — A classic enemies-to-lovers story, Austen’s novel has been remade into different screen adaptations that leave readers and viewers wishing they were Elizabeth Bennet. Travel back in time to the Regency Era, where balls and stolen glances across the room were all the rage, and heroines would swoon into a hero’s arms at a moment’s notice. If one is looking for more regency romance with dark-haired love interests, also check out the “Bridgerton” book series by Julia Quinn.

“Better Than the Movies” by Lynn Painter — A teen rom-com about rom-coms, “Better Than the Movies” is a young adult novel that will leave readers blushing. A constant daydreamer, Liz Buxbaum fell for Michael a long time ago, and now that he’s back in town, she will stop at nothing to get him to notice her. With the help of her next-door neighbor, Wes, she’s convinced Michael will notice her in time to ask her to prom, but Liz finds herself drawn more and more to Wes and their scheming goes on. Its sequel “Nothing Like the Movies” was recently released, continuing Liz and Wes’ story.

“Outlander” series by Diana Gabaldon — A romance series set in the Highlands, British nurse Claire Randall is transported to 18th century Scotland, where she meets and falls in love with warrior Jamie Fraser. With nine of the ten planned books published and a series streaming on Apple TV, there is sure to be plenty of Jamie Fraser to go around. For more Scottish highlands romance, also check out “Rebellion” by Nora Roberts.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Dorm decorating

February 5, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Making one’s own space is extremely important in college. This chapter in life is full of excitement, new friends and new experiences. Although it’s easy to settle for bare walls, only sticking with the provided furniture, decorating one’s room has a significant impact on their mental well-being, self-expression and overall college experience. Here are a few reasons why decorating is important.

The dorm room is one of the few places where students can fully express themselves. Personal touches like family and friend photos, favorite posters or other mementos to remind one of where one comes from can help anyone feeling homesick. At the end of a busy day, a student’s dorm room becomes a sanctuary for relaxation and recharging their social battery. Soft bedding, throw pillows and lighting work to create that relaxing environment. For students looking to choose a style, here is a list of popular themes: minimalism, boho chic, 70s style and much more. Personal expression and decoration don’t have to fit into a single label.

When making new friends, one will end up hanging out in their rooms. A decorated room can be a great conversation starter, or for when new roommates move in. Having a well-decorated space can feel more welcoming to guests.

Stress is a normal part of the college experience, but that doesn’t mean it should follow one into their room. Creating a personal and colorful space is a powerful influence to one’s mental health. According to Mental Health America, “Happy, bright colors can increase your mental activity and leave you feeling rejuvenated and energized.” An aesthetically pleasing environment improves one’s mental health and can even make one feel more productive.

Even though a dorm room is small, there is plenty of space to make it one’s own. It’s a fun and creative way to express oneself. So, grab those fairy lights, fluffy blankets and meaningful decor — the room is waiting.

Tips to decorate on a budget:

Bring in the greenery

Plants have several benefits that directly affect its owners. Plants are therapeutic, improving one’s mental health, helping one to recover from illness faster and contributing to a good flow within a feng shui lifestyle. Some popular bedroom plants are lucky bamboo, succulents, snake plants and Pothos.

Thrift shop

Thrift shopping has great options to find affordable decoration items that fit one’s style. Lamps, vases, frames and baskets are among the most unique decor that won’t break the bank.

Think multifunctional

Furniture that serves more than one purpose is extremely helpful for any student. One should look for under-bed storage with drawers and ottomans.

Understand what’s allowed in the dorm

As one gets creative with decorating, it’s important to understand what is allowed — and, more importantly, not allowed — within the dorms. Candles, halogen lamps, vacuums and toaster ovens are among the most popular items that are prohibited in the dorms. Any student needing a refresher should look at the “FIRE and LIFE SAFETY” and “The Guide to Residential Living 24-25” on Western’s housing page. Some safe alternatives for the most popular prohibited item — candles — are diffuser sticks, essential oil diffusers and Scentsy warmers.

Use peel-and-stick items

Students have likely heard this a million times already, but Command strips are our best friends when one wants to hang up any art and hooks without causing damage to walls.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

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

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