Mount Hood

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

Meet Gabe Burchfield

February 5, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

Gabe Burchfield, a fourth-year for Western hailing from Grants Pass, Oregon, has always been an athlete willing to push his limits. Now, as a standout multi-event competitor, he’s making his mark by breaking records and setting his sights on nationals.
Burchfield’s journey in track and field began in sixth grade when his mother encouraged him to join sports. Initially a distance runner, he quickly realized his passion was in a different field. “When I looked over and saw the technique and explosiveness of the high jumpers, I realized that was the stuff I wanted to do,” he recalled.
In high school, Burchfield expanded his resume, adding high jump and long jump to his skill set. While he found these events enjoyable, he craved a greater challenge, leading him to the decathlon. Unfortunately, as soon as he made this decision to compete, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his plans. However, upon arriving at Western, head coach Octavious Gillespie-Bennett, also known as Coach G, recognized his potential in multi-events and encouraged him to pursue them fully. Training for multiple events is no easy task, as it requires a strict balance of strength, speed, endurance and technique. “Every day, you’re doing something different,” Burchfield explained. “One day it’s explosive work, the next it’s technical. Without the guidance of Coach G, my body wouldn’t be able to handle the wear and tear.”
Though it may sound confusing, Western’s track season consists of two separate seasons: indoor, running from early December to mid-February, and outdoor, spanning late February through late May. During the indoor season, men’s multi-event athletes compete in the heptathlon, which consists of seven events, while the outdoor season features the decathlon, which includes ten events. Of the seven indoor events, Burchfield finds the 1,000-meter run the most challenging. Still, he remains dedicated to improving. “In our last meet, I got a five-second PR. I’ve been adding more cardio on off days, and have already seen results. I’ve realized that I just have to try to enjoy running, because, honestly, the distance events suck.”
On the flip side, his favorite events consist of high jump, hurdles and pole vault. “The adrenaline from pole vault is unmatched, the high jump feels amazing when you clear the bar and hurdles are super intense the whole way through.”
Success in the multis requires more than just raw talent; a rigorous training schedule is essential. Burchfield’s daily practice schedule includes two hours on the field, alternating between explosive and technical workouts, sprints and endurance runs. As a team, they lift three days a week, but Burchfield often trains beyond that, working with sports performance coach Josie Boucher even on his off days. “I’ve been in the weight room for at least three days a week since June 2024 and haven’t missed a single session. Showing up on the days you don’t feel like it is what makes the difference.” His relentless discipline has paid off, as he has already broken Western’s indoor heptathlon record twice, surpassing the previous mark of 4,850 points set by J.J. Walker.
While breaking records is significant, Burchfield remains focused on the bigger picture. “The goal has always been to chase greatness. I wasn’t necessarily aiming for the school record, it was about making it to nationals. Breaking the record was just a step toward that goal, but for now, the job’s not finished.”
One of his proudest moments this year was setting a personal best in his most challenging event during Western’s last multi-event competition in Washington. “I ran with no fear and came out on top. That gave me a lot of confidence heading into my next 1,000-meter run.”
Looking ahead, Burchfield remains dedicated to his primary goal: qualifying for nationals. As for competing beyond college, he remains open to the possibility. “I won’t say it’s impossible, but I want to see where life takes me. If I get the opportunity to compete professionally, I’d take it and run with it — literally.” With his work ethic and hunger for greatness, Gabe Burchfield is proving that the sky’s the limit.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

“The Howl” staff picks

February 5, 2025

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

Looking for a new show to binge or a new artist to fill the homework hours? The staff of “The Western Howl” has all avenues covered — and then some. 

Shows and movies:

“Attack on Titan” — Sophie Taylor, designer

One of the highest-rated animes of all time, Taylor’s choice of “Attack on Titan” is a show that “is breathtaking and was crafted to perfection. Twists and turns that no one sees coming will leave you jaw-dropped, looking at your own reflection on the black screen.” 

The show follows protagonist Eren Yeager as he joins the elite Survey Corps and faces off against Titans — gigantic, humanoid creatures that feed on humans — and is currently streaming on Apple TV+ and Crunchyroll.

“River Monsters” — Sophia Pierce, designer

“After 9 seasons, the show has sadly been discontinued since Jeremy Wade, the show’s star, has caught essentially all our waters have to offer,” Pierce said. 

Following Jeremy Wade as searches for exotic fishes, both big and small, the show goes across the globe and explores the cultures and stories of the people who have seen these creatures. 

“When a Stranger Calls” — Quincy Bentley, sports editor

Bentley’s love for horror shows in his pick, calling it a horror movie without the gore. “Though it was made in 1979, the suspense remains timeless. The utter intensity of the film kept me on the edge of my seat for the full 97 minutes,” he said. “(It’s) definitely worth the watch.”

The film follows high school student Jill Johnson who is terrorized by a killer during an evening of babysitting. She receives repeated calls asking her, “Have you checked the children lately?”

Books:

“Jurassic Park” by Michael Criton — Isabelle Jones, lifestyle editor

Jones is a self-professed lover of all things “Jurassic Park,” and her pick had her captivated by the relationship between man and dinosaurs — and its destructive nature. “For those waiting for Jurassic World Rebirth, take some time and learn about the origins of the franchise in this vicious adventure,” she said. 

The first in a duology, “Jurassic Park” explores the concept of cloning dinosaur DNA and its consequences. Much of the plot is similar to the movie, though of course creative liberties were taken during its filming. 

“The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by V.E. Schwab — Hannah Field, editor-in-chief

“My favorite book of all time. Addie LaRue is cursed to live forever and be known by nobody — until somebody remembers her and, against all odds, they vow to rewrite their past and future as one. V.E. Schwab writes with magnetic prose in this standalone novel, capturing the human experience in such a captivating story,” Field says. 

“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak — Addie Floyd, head designer

Perhaps one of the greatest books of our time, Floyd’s choice is one that she says broke her heart to pieces. “(It’s) definitely a life-changing book. I finished this book when I was in class my senior year of high school,” she says. “Worst idea ever. I should have known better. After all, it is narrated by death.”

Music:

“Preacher’s Daughter” by Ethel Cain — Ruth Simonsen, digital media manager

At Terry House, there’s one rule: in Ruth’s music we trust, and her choice of Ethel Cain’s album is the best example of why this is. “This album strikes home for anyone with religious trauma, as it follows the daughter of a preacher through her life, brutal death and afterlife,” she says. “Listen to this album during the quiet hours of the evening, preferably with a candle burning and noise-canceling headphones.”

“the sugar machine” by slenderbodies — Kiera Roedel, copy editor

Aside from being our copy editor, Roedel is also phenomenal at writing deep-dive album reviews, so this is familiar territory for her. 

“A falsetto-laden dream-pop record about yearning for days gone by and wishing for love and tranquility. Soft guitars, synthesizers and unusual percussion lines make it a peaceful yet engaging listen,” she says. “It doesn’t hurt that almost every song has an earworm chorus.”

“Imaginary Appalachia” by Colter Wall — Jaylin Emond-Hardin, entertainment editor

My personal pick, Wall’s debut album is reminiscent of the days of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Loretta Lynn. With soulful lyrics that dredge up images of the American South, this album is sure to make one yearn for the days of open ranges, cowboys and whiskey so strong it would knock the fuzz off a peach. 

Podcasts:

“The Magnus Archives” — Sadie Latimer, news editor

A horror anthology podcast, “The Magnus Archives” progresses as Jonathan Sims archives a collection of statements dealing with the paranormal. Each episode varies between 20 and 40 minutes and is sure to keep listeners riveted. 

“This podcast is long, but so worth it. Throughout the 200 episodes, it delves into the supernatural world and what it really means to be human,” Latimer says. 

“Old Gods of Appalachia” — Jaylin Emond-Hardin, entertainment editor

Another horror anthology podcast, “Old Gods of Appalachia” narrates the sordid and violent events surrounding the town of Barlo, Kentucky and its paranormal origins. 

With a backing soundtrack that throws listeners into the moment, this is a podcast that is truly terrifying. 

“Ologies” — Ruth Simonsen, digital media manager

This podcast is filled with interviews from experts in basically every field — “If it has an ‘-ology,’ it has an episode,” Simonsen says. 

With more than 130 episodes, the podcast explores the truly wild and niche fields, including basket weaving, called canistrumology. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Western basketball struggles

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

Western’s men’s basketball team has faced a challenging stretch this season, and the struggles were visible during their recent matchups against Northwest Nazarene and Central Washington. The “Wolves’” game against the Northwest Nazarene Nighthawks Thursday was emblematic of their season’s difficulties. Though they had an encouraging start to the game, Western fell 84-60 in front of their home crowd at New PE. Leading scorer Jason Gallant finished the contest with 14 points and two steals, continuing to prove he is a reliable source on offense. Senior guard, Jahville Collins, followed up with 12 points and grabbed six rebounds, while forward Anjay Cortez chipped in seven points with two steals. Despite these individual efforts, the team struggled to generate momentum on the defensive end, where they were unable to contain the Nighthawks. Unfortunately, the loss dropped the “Wolves” to 4-14 overall and 1-7 in GNAC play.
Just two days later, Western hosted Central Washington. The “Wolves” suffered another lopsided defeat, falling 93-71, marking their 15th loss of the season. They started the game focused, even taking an early 11-9 lead after a three-pointer from Gallant. However, Central Washington quickly regained control and never looked back. The biggest struggle for the “Wolves” seemed to be their defensive lapses and turnovers, which were exploited by Central Washington, allowing them to build a comfortable lead by halftime. The second half saw more of the same as the “Wolves” struggled to keep pace.
Gallant delivered another strong performance, pouring in 25 points on 10-of-16 shooting. His ability to score efficiently has truly been one of the few bright spots for Western this season. Collins also added 15 points and three steals, while first-year Mario Williams Jr. contributed 10 points and five rebounds, including three on the offensive glass.
The back-to-back losses to Northwest Nazarene and Central Washington highlight the broader challenges Western has faced throughout the season. Defensively, the “Wolves” have struggled, allowing their opponents to generate far too many high-percentage shots. On the offensive side, the “Wolves” have relied heavily on a few key players, particularly Gallant, Williams and Collins, to shoulder the scoring load.
As the season continues, Western’s ability to learn from their struggles will determine how they finish. While the results have been disappointing, the lessons learned during this challenging season could lay the groundwork for future success. For now, the Wolves remain focused on improving with each game, one possession at a time.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Rugby All Stars

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

National Collegiate Rugby, the governing body for all collegiate rugby teams and clubs, annually hosts an All-Star tournament. The teams are composed of the best of the best from each region, featuring All-Stars and Rising Stars brackets.

This year, both the men’s and women’s+ rugby teams sent players to the tournaments in Atlanta, Georgia. Isaac Bare and Sangato Letisi represented Western on the Pac-Coast Grizzlies, and seven of the twelve Cascade Rising Stars were from Western’s women’s+ team — Emily Moore, Estela Miranda-Aguilar, Jada Miller, Journey Petry, Katie Allydice, Kayla Anderson and Tessa Medina. 

This was the second year that Bare and Letisi have represented Western at the All-Stars tournament, their first year being in Austin, Texas for the 2024 team. However, this is the first time the women’s+ team, and their conference, have been represented at the tournament since 2020. 

It wasn’t just Western players representing at the tournament, either. Women’s+ Head Coach Nic Smith led the Cascade Rising Stars, with Moore and Miranda-Aguilar as captains. 

“As a coach, I had to figure out how to adapt in a way that was beneficial to the team, putting the pieces together to form a roster that worked given the variety of experience and skill presented in each player,” Coach Smith said. “The players were receptive and each game they got better and better, working with each other and trusting in one another’s ability. It was a beautiful thing to watch and be a part of.” 

Smith also touched on the differences between coaching an All-Stars team and coaching during the regular season. “[In the regular season], you have the ability to practice weekly, honing skill and building chemistry amongst the team, identifying what works and what doesn’t … coaching an All-Stars team where players come from multiple teams, you don’t get that opportunity.”

During the men’s tournament, Letisi scored one try for the Grizzlies. Unfortunately, Bare went scoreless, though he felt he was strongest when it came to making tackles and being present in the rucks. 

Miranda-Aguilar and Moore also made waves at the tournament; Miranda-Aguilar was named for the Rising Stars All-Tournament Team and Moore was in the top three of conversions scored. Together, they scored five of the team’s 15 tries, and Moore made all seven of the team’s conversions. Medina scored two tries during the tournament as well. 

Both Moore and Miranda-Aguilar were named MVPs for the team, with Moore claiming Backs MVP and Miranda-Aguilar Tournament MVP. 

Moore was also chosen for the Pacific Northwest U23 Selects, a team composed of the top players from the Pacific Northwest. PNW Rugby, the governing body for senior club rugby in the Pacific Northwest, oversees the growth, regulations and standards for Rugby Union clubs in Oregon, Washington and Idaho. The PNW U23 team will face Central Washington University Feb. 15. 

Both of Western’s teams head into their spring sevens season with their eyes set on punching a ticket to the National Tournament in Washington, D.C., in April of 2025. With strong rosters and impressive team unity, this goal might be closer than they think. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Meet Western softball

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

As the Western softball team gears up for their spring season, there’s a sense of energy and excitement in the air. The “Wolves,” backed by a wave of fresh talent and determination, are ready to make this season unforgettable. With insight from players and coaches, here’s why fans should be ready to rally behind this exceptional group.
Jessica Morgan, a senior pitcher from Lewistown, Montana, is entering her final season with the team. Morgan has been laser-focused during the offseason, stating, “Last year, I was really working hard on my drop ball. This offseason, I’ve worked on perfecting it along with my curveball.” Morgan isn’t just looking to elevate her own performance, though. When asked about any personal goals she has set this season, Morgan said, “No matter what happens, I want to be a good role model.” Her dedication to both the game as well as her teammates is a true example of leadership.
Victoria Zimmerman, a junior from Ellensburg, Washington, has been refining her mental game during the offseason. “After last season, I found myself overthinking a lot,” she said. “This offseason, I’ve worked on staying mentally strong, and I’ve put a lot of effort into improving offensively — I’m really excited to bring my full swing into play this year.” Her experience and hunger to improve are clear indicators that she’s ready to take her performance to the next level.
Despite being a young team, what makes Western softball so special is its tight-knit group of players who share chemistry both on and off the field. First-year and California native Lauren Maure shared, “It’s been family-oriented since the beginning. The team atmosphere is very inclusive, and everyone’s worked hard to build relationships.”
Junior Sydney Conklin, a native of Corvallis, Oregon, echoes these statements, saying, “This is by far the most tight-knit team I’ve been a part of. Everyone is super cool and eager to build something special together.”
With many new players in the mix, building team culture has been a priority. Sophomore Brooklyn Schneidt, from Meridian, Idaho, embraced this opportunity. “Almost the whole team is new, so we got to create our own culture. We’re very equal as a team, and we always make sure everyone is involved,” she said.
Head Coach Aly Boytz, a proud Western alumni, leads this young team with passion and purpose. “As a former player, I know what these players are going through,” she said. “We talk a lot about life outside of softball. My philosophy is about creating an environment where we learn and grow from every game.”

Coach Boytz believes this year’s team stands out because of their sheer determination. “We have the will to win. Everyone on this team is gritty, scrappy and genuinely likes each other. It’s rare to see a group come together so quickly. That chemistry will serve us well this season.”
Fans have every reason to believe this will be a standout season for the “Wolves.” Whether it’s the relentless work ethic of Jessica Morgan, the growing confidence of Victoria Zimmerman or the dynamic chemistry of the entire roster, this team is ready to leave it all on the field.
As junior Sydney Conklin noted, one player to watch is Maddie Doyge: “She’s hungry to come back and has been absolutely dialed in.” Other players pointed to Conklin as a potential breakout star, given the incredible effort she’s put in to overcome a gruesome elbow injury.
This season wouldn’t be complete without the “Wolves’” cherished traditions. From their pre-season retreat on the coast to their annual tournament in California, these rituals strengthen the bond between coaches and players. Sophomore Brooklyn Schneidt recalls playing icebreaker games on the beach, while Conklin looks forward to the team’s pregame hype song: “Love” by Keyshia Cole.
With all the talent, grit and unity this team has to offer, the 2025 Western softball season promises to be one to remember. Mark the calendars, bring some peers and get ready to check out the team that’s not just playing softball, but creating a legacy —Let’s go “Wolves.”

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Winter term clubs

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

Looking for ways to get involved outside of classes? Western provides a plethora of clubs that can entice any type of student. Whether it’s furthering knowledge within a degree, getting to know other people in the community or creating change, Western has so much to offer — come out and join a club.

WOU ASL Club (Instagram @wouasl)

An organization for the Deaf, Deaf+, Hard of Hearing and Hearing students at Western.

Aspiring Teachers Association (Instagram @wou.ata)

Supporting future educators from step one.

Associated Students of Western Oregon University (Instagram @aswou)

Advocators for students’ rights to the Western administration as well as the state of Oregon and the nation.

Board Game Club (Instagram @wou.board.game.club)

Bring games and find new friends.

Business And Economics Club (Instagram @woubeclub)

A space for students to have discussions, speakers, workshops and networking opportunities for the business and economics fields. 

Creative Writers’ Guild (Presence https://wou.presence.io/organization/creative-writers-guild)

A place where all creative writers of any writing medium are welcome to write and share their work with the guild. 

Criminal Justice Club (Instagram @wou.cjclub)

This organization discusses the justice system events and issues.

CRU (Instagram @cruatwou)

“We’re real people dealing with the real problems of living out a real faith in the real world.”

Exercise Science Club

Exercise science students get to connect with different community members in order to provide members with unique opportunities, networking, recreational activities and insight into potential future professions. 

Meetings on the third Tuesday of every month in the Richard Woodcock Education Center, room 208.

Fiber Arts Club (Instagram @wou.fiberartsclub)

This is a club open to anyone, be it someone who has been crocheting or knitting for years or a complete beginner interested in learning a new craft. 

Filipino American Association at Western Oregon University (Instagram @faa.wou)

Encouraging and promoting the culture of the Philippines among Filipinos and other students who want to learn about the customs and culture of the country.

Gerontological Society of America Student Chapter (https://www.geron.org/)

This campus chapter focuses on sharing gerontological knowledge, expertise and interest. A welcoming space for all students interested in gerontology to participate in social events, networking and service learning. 

Kappa Delta Chi Sorority Inc. (Instagram @kdchibetadelta)

A sisterhood based on serving the community, upholding the values of unity, honesty, integrity and leadership, while also prioritizing academics, service and sisterhood.

KWOU Radio (Instagram @kwoustudios)

Student-run online radio station who are blasting away tunes, growing a music library and adding to the broadcast equipment supply.

Math Club (Instagram @woumathclub)

Open to anyone; come participate in Estimathon and Pi Day.

MECHA (Instagram @mechadewou)

A group focusing on community, support, activism and advocacy.

Model United Nations (Instagram @wou_mun)

An organization participating in a simulation of the United Nations where students act as delegates and work together to solve global issues.

Monmouth Student Nurses Association (Instagram @monmouthstudentnurses)

Students practicing diversity and inclusion through community outreach projects and volunteerism. 

Native/Indigenous Culture Club (Instagram @wounativeclub)

Advocating for connections and friendships among the students at WOU who identify under the umbrella term of Native/Indigenous and corresponding supporters within a purely respectful space.

Natural Science Club (Instagram @wou_natural_science_club)

Providing hands-on, real-world activities beyond the lecture and lab, offering social and academic networks for students. 

Omega Delta Phi Fraternity Inc. (Instagram @wou_knights)

A brotherhood dedicated to the needs and concerns of the community, which promotes the traditional values of unity, honesty, integrity and leadership. 

Pre-Med Club (Instagram @woupremedclub)

Striving to be a safe space for any interested in pre-health and provide valuable connections and resources.

Pre-Nursing Club

A resource for students interested in the nursing field through virtual and in-person events. 

Public Health Club (Instagram @wou.publichealthclub)

Provides a place for students interested in community health education and public health. Opportunities in networking, leadership, service learning and pre-professional training are available. Meetings are held Mondays bi-weekly from 12 – 1 p.m.

Resonate Church (Instagram @resonatemonmouth)

Come make lasting friendships and discover the purpose that one was made for. 

Spanish Club (Instagram @wou_spanishclub)

A vibrant community where those come together to explore the language and Hispanic culture through a multitude of activities in a diverse, respectful and inclusive environment.

The Northwest Passage (Instagram @wounp)

The Passage has been in publication in one form or another for 80 years, supporting the creative arts every step of the way. 

Unidos Club (Instagram @unidoswou)

Building community and creating a safe and supportive environment to help empower students to bravely fight social justice issues.

Western Oregon Swing Dance Club (Instagram @wouswingdance)

Concentrating on West Coast Swing and Single-Time Swing. No experience required.

Western Oregon University Fellowship (Instagram @wou_fellowship)

Creating diverse communities where students are safe to seek answers to spiritual and faith-based questions or concerns in life.

WOU Digital Games Club

Created for the purpose of maintaining a safe space for Western students to enjoy video games, and to foster such a community at Western. Meetings are 4 – 7 p.m. on Thursdays in the ITC, room 303.

WOU Student Veterans of America (Instagram @wousva)

Dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging, camaraderie and empowerment among student veterans, active-duty service members and their families within our university community.

Thespians Club (Insta @wouthespiansclub)

The Thespians Club here at Western provides, supports and advocates for educational, social and performance opportunities.

If interested in finding out more about Western affiliated clubs, check out their Involve pages at https://wou.presence.io/

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu