The Western Howl

Deep dive into the American Sign Language at Western

February 26, 2025

Written by: Hannah Field | Editor-in-Chief

American Sign Language has a rich and profound history across the country — but is a rare program to encounter in higher education. Few colleges along the West Coast offer American Sign Language courses beyond the beginning levels — Western, however, offers two degree paths, a minor and a master’s program.

The American Sign Language studies program at Western, on average, carries 15 students per class through 60 required credits of classes, beginning with the basic models of ASL and leading into a variety of additional classes, such as Deaf history, mental health in the Deaf community and deafblind studies.

For roughly half a century, Western has been serving the Deaf community in Monmouth, Oregon. Some current staff of Western in the ASL department, with examples such as Brent Redpath, LeShonDre Brown and Elisa Maroney, attended Western in prior years.

Historically, Western showcases success in instructing the future interpreters of America. Western was the first base for a national ASL assessment service in the West as of 2020 — a testament to Western’s dedication to American Sign Language proficiency testing for anyone interested in their fluency level.

The two Bachelor of Arts programs — American Sign Language studies and interpreting studies: theory — differ, despite common misconceptions about the programs. American Sign Language studies, according to Western’s website, helps foster knowledge of ASL in a way that promotes respect for Deaf culture, history and community. “You will not only continue to hone your ASL skills, but you will also study areas such as linguistics, language acquisition, cultural competency and mental health and learn how this information can serve the (Deaf) population.”

Other higher education institutions may refer to their version of ASL studies as Deaf studies or, potentially, be known as simply American Sign Language.

Elisa Maroney, current program co-coordinator of the ASL branch of the interpreting program and certified interpreter, helped construct the ASL studies program curriculum at Western in its prime, alongside Debi Duren. The program originated from the interpreting program, which found its footing first at Western.

“Our program is a study of the language, the culture, the history. For ASL studies, we’re often a more foundational program — students have that skill in ASL that they can use for the next step in their lives, which might be a graduate program, or it could be related to their career that requires an ASL background,” said Brent Redpath, American Sign Language studies program coordinator. Redpath has been working diligently at Western since 2012 and has become a well-respected professor — often harboring full classes with a waitlist each term.

Redpath, as program coordinator, schedules classes, makesing sure each class is properly staffed with instructors, balancesing course loads for faculty, addressesing student concerns and assistsing in conflict management amongst students. Redpath wholeheartedly represents the ASL program — his face and name are well-known in the Richard Woodcock Education Center — RWEC — where the majority of ASL classes take place.

Predominantly, classes in ASL are taught by deaf professors. ASL language classes — 101 through 303 — follow this model earnestly.

“It’s very nice to have native users of a language who are instructing in their native language,” said Redpath. “And to receive language and culture directly from a deaf person. Nothing against hearing people, don’t get me wrong — but their experiences will be different than a person who grew up as a Deaf individual. They’re going to have a different background, and they won’t be able to speak to that perspective in the same way a Deaf person can.”

With this in mind, ASL classes are regarded as “Deaf classrooms.”

“You might notice as you come into class that we have our tables set up in a U-shape, which is different from other classes. That’s how we always teach so that every student in the class can see each other. It’s a visual language,” said Redpath. “It’s important that we can all see each other, that I can see the students and they can see me.”

The RWEC boasts glass panels in the wall, allowing professors to see what’s happening in the hallways and beyond — a common Deaf-friendly window style. Redpath personally acted in the committee that assisted with designing the RWEC. “I was able to offer some tips and ideas for how to make this building a more Deaf-friendly space,” said Redpath. Additionally, the topic of what makes a Deaf-friendly space is discussed in class to teach on Deaf culture and respect.

Deaf classrooms are also deadly quiet to the average hearing person.

“It is dead silent … The way you can just hear a pin drop — the way people can hear you swallow wrong,” laughed junior Abby Money. “And then the two people on your left hear it and you have to say, ‘sorry, I’m hungry today.’”

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the ASL studies program; staff has been reduced, as have extra class options. As of 2025, Western has two full-time ASL studies staff members, alongside five part-time employees. Ideally, the program will be able to restore more staff members, in-person classes and more classes and class times.

Functionally, ASL classes utilize Canvas and GoReact for exams, homework and lessons. GoReact is a video-based system, allowing students to upload videos of their exams and receive direct feedback.

ASL students, if struggling, may resort to the tutoring center for additional assistance with their signing fluency. Ideally, students will continue to participate in the Deaf community. “I always encourage students to be involved,” said Redpath. “It’s not enough to just go to ASL classes and be done. You can’t thrive that way … There is actually an ASL hall in the dorms, where you can have extra opportunities to socialize outside of class time.”

The ASL club on campus is a good resource for students to gain signing experience and practice with their peers.

Redpath’s classes involve three exams per term and weekly assignments. Students meet in small groups to practice for a grade on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, depending on the instructor’s choice.

“The ASL studies program is one of the biggest language programs that we offer on campus, and administration at Western has recognized us for that. We appreciate their support for our program,” said Redpath. “We felt their involvement in making our program successful … We hope (the program) will continue to grow even larger in the future. Of course, things are different now in post-COVID days, but we really hope to be back to what we were before. It’s a really important program — to me and to the university.”

As for Redpath — “My favorite part of this job is definitely working with the students. I teach a variety of classes, I work with diverse students from diverse backgrounds. And they’re not just learning from me — I’m learning from them.”

For junior Dylan Meader, Redpath stands out as a professor. “His teaching style is really effective for me,” explained Meader. “I’ve had good experiences with all the professors here, but I feel I respond best to his methods of teaching — he’s just a really nice guy.”

Meader gravitated to American Sign Language in high school, needing to fulfill a language requirement and finding it fulfilling beyond his initial expectations.

“There’s not a single school in Washington that has the interpreting program, and that was something I really wanted to pursue,” said Meader. “I decided to look out of state, and the closest to my home in Bellingham, Washington, was Western. So I applied and I toured. It was something that I liked — so I decided to go for it … it’s been really great so far.”

Maroney attests that somewhere between one-third to one-half of ASL interpreting students in any given year are from out of state — such as juniors Abby Money and Meader.

Money, like Meader, hails from another state. Money grew up in Templeton, California, and Monmouth has been her first taste of life somewhere else.

“It was really scary for me moving here because I had, genuinely, never lived anywhere else on my own,” said Money. “Being fully immersed in the classes, I was so scared starting college. It was a nice surprise — it was worth it.”

Often, Redpath or LeShonDre Brown are the first faces students see when entering the program at 101.

“I went in, freaking out,” said Money, describing her first term with Redpath in ASL 201. “I was so scared. I was like, ‘he’s deaf. What if he doesn’t understand a word I’m saying?’ Spoiler alert — he did. He understood me.”

Western’s interpreting program hopes to help fulfill the country’s growing need for ASL interpreters. At Western, the program is available entirely online to support that goal, so more students from other states can pursue interpreting.

Interpreting, as a class subject, requires focus and drive. Students learn that professional interpreting requires no distracting clothing or accessories, and that hair must be out of the face. Recorded videos must be in good quality and against a blank backdrop.

Videos and exams follow any number of subjects. Often, they rely on translating English into ASL and then signing that statement.

Maroney has been working at Western since 1993 but previously received a certificate in interpreting from the college in prior years. Maroney even found herself at Gallaudet for her master’s — an iconic, and vastly important, college, leading the charge in Deaf education.

Eventually, Western’s undergraduate program will re-incorporate a crucial internship — “Our hope was that by having a graduate program, we could sort of guide students and provide them with supervision opportunities to, then, be more ready to work. The problem is that not everyone chooses to go on to (get their master’s) and they aren’t ready to work if they don’t have that internship piece,” said Maroney. “It is a lifelong learning process. You can’t get your bachelor’s degree and be one-and-done. You have to keep working on your language, on your interpreting, on your cultural experiences and knowledge.”

Chances are the ASL program, in any branch, will continue to evolve. “Everything is in flux,” said Maroney. “We try things, and if it doesn’t work, we try something else. I think it’s an exciting time right now — a little bit unnerving at the moment — but we have searches going on. We’re looking for two ASL studies faculty and one interpreting studies faculty.”

Additionally, Maroney recommends students look into scholarships. The interpreting program is, typically, six years long — meaning the cost can be heavy alongside already taxing work.

As for student-to-student advice, Meader has his own: “(Don’t be) intimidated, especially if you’re brand new to learning ASL and interacting with the Deaf community. Trust yourself. And have fun, it’s a lot of fun.”

“It gets easier,” said Money. “Your receptive skills get better. And when someone’s signing to you and you catch on, you’re like, ‘oh, wait, I’m actually getting this now.’ It’s not something that you’re panicking over, cause I remember panicking.”

Some staff in the program teach truly because they just enjoy the program, often working other jobs — Alethea Boyer-Mularski teaches full-time at Oregon School for the Deaf, showing up for her 5 p.m. 300-level ASL instruction classes after a full day of work.

“I teach at WOU because it’s where my teaching journey began nearly 18 years ago. Deb Duren, who was then the ASL Studies Program Coordinator, hired me despite my lack of teaching experience at the time, recognizing potential in me. Over time, my love for teaching grew, and I developed a desire to share my knowledge of ASL, Deaf culture and the Deaf community,” said Boyer-Mularski. “During the day, I work at Oregon School for the Deaf, and in the evenings, I teach hearing students at WOU. It’s a rewarding contrast — teaching Deaf students their true language while introducing ASL to hearing students.”

Western’s launch of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education Program — 2015-2021 — had Boyer-Mularski in one of the first cohorts. After a six-year hiatus starting in 2017, Boyer-Mularski has since returned to the college.

“It was amazing. I love Alethea. She definitely helped my receptive skills a lot (because) she’s a much quicker signer. That was a lot of fun, being thrown into that,” said Money.

Additionally, Money regards the language with a lot of love. “It’s important to me because it kind of reminds me of where I come from a little bit. I took it originally for my friend, for her and her brother, because she was going to teach it to him. And then I just fell in love with it — it’s a beautiful language.”

“ASL is more than just a language — it’s the heart of Deaf identity and culture. I encourage students (and) faculty to appreciate its true beauty and respect its vital role in the Deaf community,” said Boyer-Mularski.

Meader has appreciated Western’s program so much that he’s opting to pursue his master’s at Western in interpreting. “The staff and the professors in the ASL and interpreting programs have been so supportive and encouraging … and I think that’s what’s made me want to continue, as opposed to (an) experience I had in high school where I almost quit learning ASL because my first teacher said something very harsh and awful to me about my signing, but I’ve just had really good experiences with the professors here,” he said. “Regarding the interpreting program, I think the professors do a really great job at preparing you and setting you up for success. It feels like they really care about you and think about you as more than just a student. Like they really want to set you up for future success as an interpreter or whatever you decide to do with ASL.”

Contact the author at howleditorinchief@wou.edu

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Study tips

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

As Winter term gets closer to finals week, studying for classes can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Finding the right study habits can be crucial for saving time, sanity and help one to thrive.

Create a consistent study schedule — One of the most important habits to develop is using a structured schedule instead of doing a study dump, where a student crams all of their studying time all at once. This ensures that there is enough time to study for each class. Another positive for a study schedule is that it helps to avoid procrastination because it’s already set in stone. Planning ahead allows one to digest the material, resulting in decreased stress. Without a study schedule, assignments can easily slip through the cracks, or one may be forced to cram the night before an exam. Here’s how to do it:

Begin by blocking out one’s class schedule and personal commitments in planners and calendars.
Identify gaps in one’s daily schedule and plan out shorter study sessions.
1. Shorter study sessions should be between 45-60 minutes with at least 5-minute breaks in order to maintain focus.
Use tools like planners, calendars or apps to track assignments and exams.
Be sure to schedule some downtime to relax and recharge.

Stay Organized — This is the cornerstone of academic success. Having a system for managing notes, assignments and other deadlines helps to understand the material. This works to reduce mental clutter which leads to better concentration and less stress. When one can find what one needs quickly, it leads to studying more efficiently and avoiding wasting time. Here’s how to do it:

Keep notes organized by subject, topic or date. Use binders or digital tools like OneNote, Notion or Evernote for easy access.
Color-code or highlight key information to make it easier to identify when reviewing.
Use to-do lists to keep track of assignments, with realistic deadlines and reminders.
Regularly clean up one’s study space to keep distractions at bay. A tidy space leads to a clear mind.

Minimize Distractions — Distractions are everywhere — social media, messages and constant notifications can easily pull you away from studying. While multitasking may seem like an efficient strategy, it often leads to decreased productivity. According to Brown Health University, “In reality, our brains are not set up to multitask. We are designed to be ‘mono-taskers,’ that is, to focus on and complete ‘one task at a time.’” This becomes even clearer when one tries studying with each method. There’s a clear difference when it comes to brain fatigue at the end of a study session. Minimizing distractions allows one to complete tasks faster and retain more information. Concentration on material leads to an improvement in one’s overall academic performance. Here’s how to practice this:

Turn one’s phone to focus or do not disturb mode to limit distractions during study time.
Find a quiet place, such as a library, to study.
Set specific, intentional times to check one’s phone or respond to messages, preferably during breaks.
Try using the “Pomodoro Technique”: Study for 25-30 minutes and then take a short break. After a few cycles, take a longer break.

Take care of mental and physical health — It’s easy to neglect the other parts of health when one is drowning in assignments, exams and other deadlines. However, the mind and body are the foundation of academic success. Good physical and mental health will improve focus, memory and overall performance. Its importance continues to boost mood, reduce stress and increase motivation. This can be done by:

Exercising regularly: Jogging, yoga or even a brisk walk can boost brain function.
Getting enough sleep: seven to nine hours per night helps consolidate learning and enhances memory retention.
Eating a balanced diet: A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can boost energy and focus.
Practicing mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing exercises and journaling can reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
Seeking help when needed: If struggling emotionally or mentally, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor or therapist through the Student Health and Counseling Center.

Collaborate with Classmates — Studying with classmates is a highly effective way to learn outside of the classroom. Group study sessions allow one to share ideas, clarify questions and help to approach problems from different perspectives. Also, explaining concepts to others helps to reinforce one’s understanding. This could be done through:

Joining or forming study groups to review key topics before exams.
Using online forums or platforms like Discord or Slack to collaborate remotely.
Share notes, quiz each other or review difficult concepts together.
Participate in group discussions or attend office hours held by professors.

Review Regularly — Instead of cramming the night before an exam, regular review is much more effective. Weekly review ensures that material stays fresh and contributes to information retention over the long term. The brain remembers information better when it’s revisited over time, rather than when it’s crammed into a single session. In order to do this, one should be sure to:

Schedule weekly review sessions for each subject to revisit lecture notes, assignments and key concepts.
Use active recall techniques, such as using flashcards, filling out practice problems and completing practice tests.

Studying doesn’t have to be a never-ending race against deadlines. By developing effective study habits, staying organized, and focusing on physical and mental health, one can create a productive and balanced academic experience. The key to success is consistency, active engagement with materials, and a proactive approach to managing stress and distractions.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

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Finding self in solitude

February 26, 2025

Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor

In a world where we are constantly surrounded by people, notifications and obligations, we are often conditioned to believe that our worth is tied to how busy or connected we are. However, spending time with oneself is essential for our mental, emotional and physical well-being. The positive results of solitude go beyond “being alone.” Taking time to step away from the noise of everyday life opens the door to self-reflection, personal growth and a deeper connection to one’s own needs and desires.

Cultivates Self-Awareness and Reflection — One of the biggest benefits of spending time alone is the opportunity for self-reflection. Constantly surrounding ourselves with other people can make it difficult to hear our own thoughts. Solitude provides space for introspection. This allows one to process their thoughts, evaluate actions and think about goals in a more focused manner. One should ask themselves, “What do I really want in life? What makes me happy?” Getting in touch with one’s true self helps to make decisions that are more aligned with their values and long-term aspirations. One should try setting aside some quiet time to meditate and reflect.

Boosts Creativity and Innovation — Solitude is an excellent catalyst for creativity. Anyone who is an artist, a writer, a musician or an enjoyer of problem-solving can tap into new ideas or discover breakthroughs outside of a busy environment. The mind tends to flourish in environments free of distractions. One is more likely to access their inner creativity without the pressures of external judgment of others. Historically, many of history’s greatest creators and thinkers have credited spending time alone as the key to their creative genius. One could do this by creating a space that promotes creative thinking, taking breaks from digital distractions and using alone time to brainstorm or write.

Reduces Stress and Increases Mindfulness – In a life full of obligations it can be easy for one to feel overwhelmed by the demands of work, school, relationships and other responsibilities. Time alone helps with reducing stress and promotes relaxation in order for one to recharge and reset the mind. Mindfulness practices can help to center the mind. This can be done in many ways including finding a calming activity that can be done alone, limiting phone time and taking breaks throughout the day to be alone with our thoughts.

Enhances Emotional Clarity and Healing – Our emotions are often complex and it can be hard to fully process them throughout our busy day. Time allows one to step back, reflect and understand our feelings clearly. Stress, sadness, anger and confusion need solitude for emotional healing. Sometimes our emotions need validation and to be free from judgment of others. Freedom from other people enables one to work through difficult feelings and gain emotional clarity. It also provides the opportunity to build emotional resilience. Here are some tips on how solitude can enhance emotional clarity and healing.

Allow oneself to experience emotions without distractions or the need to “fix” them immediately. This can involve sitting with our feelings and giving permission to feel.
Practicing self-compassion by being kind to oneself when dealing with difficult emotions.
Using alone time to reflect on past experiences and gain insights into how to grow from them.

Strengthens the Relationship with Oneself – Spending quality time alone is a form of self-care that helps to build a deeper and more loving relationship with oneself. Instead of only relying on others for validation and happiness, it can be empowering to recognize that one can, at times, fulfill their own emotional and social needs. The relationship that one has for themselves sets the tone for all other relationships in life. Self-awareness helps to build a more positive self-image and become more confident in one’s decisions. Self-love and inner peace depend on learning to enjoy one’s own company. This can be done in several ways including, going on “dates” with oneself, celebrating small victories and reflection on things one loves about themself and to make time to nurture those qualities.

Improves Focus and Productivity – Focused time can help to accomplish tasks more efficiently and effectively. Whether it’s studying, working on a personal project or tackling household chores, solitude can enhance productivity by allowing one to focus deeply on the task at hand. Focused time leads to better results where one can fully immerse themselves in the task and complete it with a greater attention to detail.

Fosters Independence and Confidence – Solitude fosters a sense of independence. It teaches one to rely on themself for emotional support and decision-making. Once one is comfortable enough in their own company, they become less dependent on external validation and more confident in the ability to navigate life’s challenges. One should trust their own instincts and embrace solitude as an opportunity to strengthen resilience and self-reliance.

Spending time alone is not a luxury — it is a vital part of maintaining mental, emotional and physical well-being. Whether solitude is used for self-reflection, creativity, emotional healing or simply to recharge, the benefits are undeniable. In a world that often celebrates constant connection, taking time for oneself is an act of self-respect and care. By embracing solitude, one can deepen the relationship with oneself, enhancing focus, reducing stress and ultimately leading a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu

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This week in entirely made up horoscopes….

February 26, 2025

The Signs as Croc Jibbitz

Aries: Harry Potter phoenix

Taurus: Spider-Man

Gemini: lightning mcqueen

Cancer: mr. poopybutthole from Rick and Morty

Leo: mini croc.

Virgo: is that… the duolingo owl?

Libra: Cowboy Cat YeeHaw

Scorpio: Vaporeon… you all know why

Sagittarius: Freddy Fazbear

Capricorn: golden flower from Tangled

Aquarius: a UFO

Pisces: Lord Farquad…Love for my shorties

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“Preacher’s Daughter” review

February 26, 2025

Written by: Kiera Roedel | Copy Editor

Content warning: This article contains mentions of religious trauma, depression, suicide, murder, alcoholism, drug addiction, abusive relationships, domestic violence, police violence, child sexual abuse, prostitution, kidnapping and cannibalism.

Ethel Cain is the name of Hayden Anhedönia’s solo music project. Her music focuses around themes of depression, trauma, Americana and religion, and her voice and musical styling are not dissimilar to the work of Lana Del Rey from the late 2010s. Cain’s 2022 record “Preacher’s Daughter” is a partially autobiographical concept album. It tells the life story of a preacher’s daughter, including stories about her childhood in the American South, adulthood, death and afterlife. The raw emotion on display is accentuated by gaunt instrumentation and especially by Cain’s exquisite vocals, which can convey more pain than a motivational speech even when not using a single actual word. The lyrics evoke some cruel cross between true crime and Gothic horror, gray and dismal.

“Family Tree (Intro)” — Cain discusses in no uncertain terms how her character — the preacher’s daughter — was doomed from the start by her heritage. She portrays the allegorical concept of a “family tree” as a literal tree, one from which Cain is “swinging by (her) neck,” and compares her own family to that of Christ. Throbbing percussion combined with Cain’s slurring vocals make this an engaging listen and a fantastic opening track.

“American Teenager” — It is here that the story of the preacher’s daughter begins. “American Teenager” is the album’s third single and its most radio-friendly song, with structured lyrics and some addictive synths. Cain discusses her character’s isolation in the rural American South, condemning the nationalistic, Christian, individualist culture that pulses through those environments. To cope, the preacher’s daughter turns to liquor and religion, the latter being something from which she tries and fails to escape throughout the record.

“A House in Nebraska” — Here the preacher’s daughter experiences one of her few content moments in life, describing her time spent loving a man who eventually abandons her. Seven minutes long, even this reminiscence is not soaked in joy; ambient-adjacent vocals, strong percussion and soulful guitar accentuate the melancholy. Cain describes a dirty mattress, bed sores, dirt roads — the epitome of “alone together.”

“Western Nights” — After being shunned by the man in the house in Nebraska, the preacher’s daughter turns to another lover, this one abusive and violent. Despite his faults, she describes her unbreaking love for and codependence on him. Cain sings like she just finished crying her eyes out, over thundering piano chords.

“Family Tree” — “Family Tree” is the only song on the album where the story felt obfuscated. Its lyrics describe a wedding, baptism and threats of violence, but apparently are intended to be about running from the police after the man from “Western Nights” is killed during an armed robbery. Plus, the song isn’t really related to the intro track that shares its name. The guitar solo, however, is sensational.

“Hard Times” — Over some subtle piano and drums, Cain describes the preacher’s daughter’s history of being sexually abused by her father — the preacher — when she was “too young / to notice / that some types of love could be bad.” The events described in the song are not directly autobiographical, but that doesn’t make them any less horrific. Absolutely devastating, and perfectly executed.

“Thoroughfare” — “Thoroughfare” is a ten-minute epic about the preacher’s daughter running away from home, when she encounters a strange man named Isaiah who promises to take her to California in his truck. On the ensuing long road trip, she slowly falls in love with him, and he with her. However, later lyrics and some lore posted online by Cain indicate that Isaiah actually kidnapped the preacher’s daughter, rather than her going with him consensually. The song starts acoustically, complete with harmonica, but builds to an electric guitar solo before falling away once again, and it is stunning from start to finish.

“Gibson Girl” — Taking its name from a drawing that was once considered to depict the pinnacle of American beauty standards, “Gibson Girl” describes the preacher’s daughter’s work in California as a prostitute and her simultaneous development of a drug addiction. Isaiah encourages her the whole way through, saying “if it feels good / then it can’t be bad.” This was the album’s first single, and is well-deserving of it; I’m especially in love with the drums through the choruses and the outro.

“Ptolemaea” — A million words could describe this song — shoegaze, terror, demonic, chilling — but not even all one million would be enough to honor it. Beginning with an echoing masculine chant, Cain’s voice cuts in like that of an angel. She sings of her fear of Isaiah while he has a psychotic breakdown of some kind. The climax of the song, and really of the album, comes when Cain begins to repeat the word “stop” with building intensity, the final one a bloodcurdling shriek as Isaiah dismembers her. This isn’t one I would ever choose to listen to individually, but as the peak of “Preacher’s Daughter” it is transcendent.

“August Underground” — While “August Underground” lacks lyrics, Cain’s wordless vocals take a prominent role. If death itself had a soundtrack, this would be it.

“Televangelism” — Also an instrumental, “Televangelism” is much brighter and less terrifying than either of the preceding two songs. Predominantly piano, it depicts the preacher’s daughter’s ascent into heaven, and is beautiful to match.

“Sun Bleached Flies” — From heaven, Cain reflects on her life and its few bright spots. In a particularly powerful bridge, she describes what I interpret as meeting God, and she realizes that she misses being alive, especially the man in the house in Nebraska. With driven but digestible instrumentation, “Sun Bleached Flies” is nothing short of cathartic.

“Strangers” — The closer of “Preacher’s Daughter” is also its second single. “Strangers” shows the preacher’s daughter in heaven, watching Isaiah cannibalize her body, and wishing she never fell in love with him. The outro is the most touching thing here — the preacher’s daughter speaks directly to her mother over acoustic guitar, telling her she doesn’t blame her for what happened. Especially interesting is the fact that no woman characters had been previously mentioned except the preacher’s daughter herself. “Strangers” is an excellent closer, bringing together the highlights of the album’s musical style into a cohesive whole.

The strengths of “Preacher’s Daughter” rest primarily in the story it tells and the soundscape it creates — less like music and more like the listener is just floating around inside Cain’s head throughout the course of these events. This isn’t a flawless record, but in some ways that just makes it more perfect. Absolutely worth a listen.

Contact the author at howlcopyeditor@wou.edu

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Black stories, timeless voices

February 26, 2025

Written by: Jaylin Emond-Hardin | Entertainment Editor

The voices, stories and lives of Black creators are through these works, collected in honor of Black History Month.

Movies and Shows:

“One Night in Miami” — Regina King’s directorial debut, “One Night in Miami,” follows a fictionalized account of the Feb. 25, 1964 meeting of Malcolm X, Cassius Clay, Sam Cooke and Jim Brown. The four reflect on their place in society as prominent African American men during the Civil Rights movement, and the movie shows the tension among African American activists and figureheads leading up to Malcolm X’s assassination in 1965. “One Night in Miami” is free to stream on Amazon Prime and Tubi.

“Black-ish” — Running from 2014 to 2022 for eight seasons, “Black-ish” follows the Johnson family as they juggle personal, familial and sociopolitical issues, especially their wishes to stay true to their black identities while they live in a wealthy, suburban, white neighborhood. The show is available for purchase on Apple TV and Google Play.

“The Boondocks” — Part of the original lineup on Adult Swim, “The Boondocks” is an animated comedy series that follows the Freeman family as they settle into the fictional suburb of Woodcrest. Showcasing a mixture of cultures, social classes, lifestyles and racialized identities provides the show with its comedy and conflict throughout each episode. “The Boondocks” is streaming on Max and Adult Swim.

“Poetic Justice” — This 1993 film follows Justice, a talented poet, as she road trips to Oakland with her friends in a mail truck. All four are struggling with the loss of different friends, and the film stands as a journey of discovery, rather than a commentary on society. The film is streaming on Apple TV.

Books:

“Children of Blood and Bone” by Tomi Adeyemi — Inspired by Nigerian mythology, the first book in the “Legacy of Orïsha” trilogy follows Zélie, Tzain and Princess Amari as they set out to restore their people’s system of magic to Orïsha. While it is a young adult novel, it deals heavily with themes of oppression, racism and slavery, with the kosidán and maji — both fictitious social classes — standing in place of real-world institutions and groups. The book is also set to become a movie, starring Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba and Amandla Stenberg, and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood.

“All We Were Promised” by Ashton Lattimore — Set in 1837 Philadelphia, “All We Were Promised” follows three black women — Charlotte, a fugitive slave; Nell, an abolitionist from a wealthy black family; and Evie, Charlotte’s friend from her time as a slave — as they navigate life and find freedom in Philadelphia during a time marked by race riots and attacks on abolitionists. “All We Were Promised” is currently a nominee for the 2024 Readers’ Favorite Debut Novel award from Goodreads.

“Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe — Considered one of the great novels about the colonial era, “Things Fall Apart” follows Okonkwo, a traditional leader of the fictional Igbo tribe of Umuofia. A feared warrior and wrestling champion, Okonkwo opposes colonialism and the early Christian missionaries, and the book follows him as he claws his way through the turbulent period.

“It’s Elementary” by Elise Bryant — How far is too far when it comes to parents getting involved in their children’s lives? Bryant’s novel explores just that. Mavis has never been a PTA mom, not when she has too much on her plate, but she surprises herself when she caves to PTA president Trisha Holbrook’s wish for her to lead the school’s DEI committee. When the principal goes missing after Mavis sees Trisha wearing long yellow gloves and hauling cleaning supplies and black trash bags to her minivan, she’s determined to get to the bottom of things. With help from the school psychiatrist, Mavis launches an investigation that ends up challenging her views on parenting, friendship and elementary school politics.

Music:

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell — Gaye and Terrell’s duet is an uplifting, soulful anthem about unconditional love, devotion and support. The song talks about how no obstacle — mountain, valley or river — can keep people from being apart from the one they care about most. The song is a classic, uplifting the importance of commitment and the strength of human connection.

“Hurry Up Tomorrow” by The Weeknd — The Weeknd’s newest studio album debuted Jan. 31 and wraps up the trilogy that includes his 2020 album “After Hours” and his 2022 album “Dawn FM.” With 22 songs spanning well over 90 minutes, it explores themes of fame, personal struggle and artistic transformation, with heavy R&B and synth-pop elements. The album currently sits at number one on the Billboard 200 Chart, where it’s been since its debut.

“Exodus” by Bob Marley and the Wailers — One of the most influential and iconic reggae albums of our time, Marley recorded this 1977 album in London after surviving an assassination attempt while in Jamaica. Divided into two halves, “Exodus” focuses on political struggle, exile and social justice, while also delivering timeless, soulful songs about love and unity. In 1999, Time magazine named “Exodus” the best album of the 20th century, which solidified Marley’s legacy as both a musical and cultural icon.

“Proud Mary” by Tina Turner — Originally performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival, Turner turned this song into one of her most iconic, adding her own signature to it. Lyrically, the song tells the story of leaving behind a mundane life to work on a Mississippi Riverboat and Turner’s version adds personal freedom and the joy of living life to the fullest. Blending soul and funk, Turner’s version of “Proud Mary” has become a timeless classic even more well-known than the original.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

The Western Howl

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February 12, 2025

Written by: Quincy Bentley | Sports Editor

In a shocking move, the Dallas Mavericks have traded Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in a three-team deal finalized February 2, 2025. The trade sent Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris to L.A., while Dallas received Anthony Davis, Max Christie and a 2029 first-round pick. The Utah Jazz also joined the trade, acquiring Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
This trade sent shockwaves throughout the league, as there were no rumors or reports leading up to it — just a sudden announcement on a Saturday night. Even more surprising, Dončić never requested a trade and was expected to sign a supermax extension this summer. CBS Sports graded the trade for the Lakers an “A+” for acquiring a 25-year-old generational talent, while Dallas received an “F” for trading away their franchise cornerstone for an aging, injury-prone Davis.
Mavericks general manager, Nico Harrison, is facing intense backlash for the move. Fans feel betrayed, considering Dončić had just led the team to the NBA Finals last season and even purchased a $15 million home in Dallas, proving his commitment to the franchise.
For Dončić, the trade came as a complete shock. “I wanted so badly to bring you a championship,” he told Mavericks fans in an emotional farewell. Now in Los Angeles, he joins forces with LeBron James, forming, potentially, one of the most skilled duos in NBA history. For the first time in his career, LeBron might not be the best player on his team — allowing him to take a lesser role and let Dončić shine.
The Lakers’ biggest concern is defense, as losing Davis leaves a hole in the frontcourt. General manager Rob Pelinka quickly moved to sign Mark Williams, a 7’0” center from the Charlotte Hornets. This addition aims to compensate Davis’ absence, while also providing stability on the defensive end.
For Dallas, acquiring Davis highlights a positive shift toward defense, but concerns about his age, 31, and injury history loom large. While he remains an elite player when healthy, his long-term durability is extremely questionable.
Some speculate the Mavericks made this move for financial reasons, avoiding Dončić’s upcoming supermax contract. However, most fans see it as a massive misstep, as Dončić was the face of the franchise and still had years of prime basketball ahead of him.
This deal is the first time in NBA history that two reigning All-NBA players have been traded for each other midseason. Some compare it to the 1988 Wayne Gretzky trade, which changed the NHL landscape forever.
Regardless of whether the Lakers secure a championship in the coming years, this trade will be seen as a successful, franchise-defining move. However, if the Mavericks fail to remain competitive, this move will go down as the worst in franchise history.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will focus on how Dončić adapts in L.A. and whether Dallas can recover from losing their biggest star. The debate over this trade is far from over — and its true impact will only be revealed with time.

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

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