Mount Hood

Picnic recipes

Written by: Sierra Porter | Staff Writer

Spring has arrived, and along with it comes beautiful flowers, sunny days and markets with the freshest fruits and vegetables. Take advantage of this beautiful season with homemade snacks perfect for any picnic: 

HOMEMADE HUMMUS: 

Start to finish: 20 minutes

*This recipe requires a food processor*

Chickpeas 

Tahini 

Fresh lemon juice 

Fresh garlic

Ground cumin and salt 

Olive oil 

Optional: Roasted red peppers 

Start by adding lemon juice and tahini to the food processor and allow them to run for a minute or two, eventually turning into a paste. Peel the chickpeas for a more creamy texture and separate them into two batches for easier processing. Blend the first batch of chickpeas along with the cumin, salt, olive oil and roasted red peppers, then add the second batch. Add a splash of olive oil on top and serve with crunchy veggies, pita bread or even on a tasty sandwich. 

ELOTE-INSPIRED PASTA SALAD

Start to finish: 30 minutes 

200g pasta noodles, any kind

3 tsp olive oil 

2 cans of sweet corn 

6 spring onions, finely chopped 

40g coriander 

200g feta cheese 

150g Mayonnaise 

3 limes, juiced

2 tsp chili powder 

Begin by cooking the pasta noodles in heavily salted water, drain and then add 1 tsp of olive oil. Heat the remainder of the olive oil in a skillet, add the sweet corn with a dash of salt and cook for 5-10 minutes or until slightly charred. Put the corn in a large serving bowl, add the pasta, spring onions, most of the coriander, crumbled feta cheese and mix well. To make the dressing, combine mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice and salt into a bowl to pour over the elote pasta. Top with extra feta, corn, a chili powder and go ahead and set it on the picnic table.

SWEET RASPBERRY LEMONADE 

Start to finish: 15 minutes

8-10 large lemons = 1 ½ cups lemon juice 

½ pound of raspberries

5 cups water

1-1 ½ cups sugar  

Lemon wedges, for serving 

Fresh mint, for serving

Every picnic needs a sweet drink to sip on and a homemade raspberry lemonade is just the thing to quench your thirst. Start by squeezing all the juice out of the lemons, acquiring at least 1 ½ cups of juice. Combine raspberries and ½ cup of lemon juice in a blender; puree until smooth, then pass the mixture through a sieve to separate out seeds. The fastest way to eliminate seeds is by pressing down on the strainer with a large spoon or ladle, pushing the seeds into the spoon to scoop out with ease. Add remaining lemon juice, water and sugar to the bowl and stir until completely dissolved. Taste test and add more sugar or lemon if needed. Pour in glasses with ice, top with lemon wedge along with the fresh mint, and enjoy the perfect picnic drink. 

Contact the author at howlstaffwriter@wou.edu

Connor Price

Written by: Hannah Field | News Editor

Sworn in earlier this year, Conner Price, a former Western student, has become one of Oregon’s first licensed paralegals.

Before 2023, licensed paralegals did not exist in Oregon. The licensure was created to establish more resources in-house and family law, which, according to the Oregon State Bar, were “the two areas of greatest unmet need by Oregonians.” Previously, clients had to seek far more expensive lawyers for this kind of aid, but now licensed paralegals may offer less costly assistance for similar work.

The work of a licensed paralegal may follow a wide scope of tasks: represent or assist clients in many legal instances, file documents with the court, review documents with clients and prepare clients for court appearances or other conferences — more tasks are listed by the Oregon State Bar.

Price, however, has not yet passed the Bar exam. To be a licensed paralegal, different exams are required.

“I was going to go to law school directly out of college,” said Price. “But after two and a half years of pandemic learning, I was like, I need a break.”

Price graduated from Western in 2022. Since then, he’s moved to work at a law firm located in Astoria, which, according to him, is “a beautiful little town (with lots of) rich history.”

The law firm, Stahancyk, Kent & Hook, embraced the new Oregon Licensed Paralegal program which Price completed — making him the only licensed paralegal at his location.

The program was tedious, requiring proof of 1500 hours of work, a portfolio thoroughly documenting different categories of work and multiple rigorous tests.

His time at Western prepared him well for hard work — pre-pandemic, Price had a full schedule, usually unavailable until past 8 p.m. every weekday. At times, he was taking up to 22 credits, working 20 hours at Valsetz Dining Hall, participating year-round in choir and performing with Western’s cheer team.

Price graduated with two majors — one in Political Science and the other in Communications — with a minor in History. 

“(Western) is a great little school. What I appreciated most was the small class sizes, being able to get one-on-one time with the professors,” said Price. Today, his favorite professor — his former choir professor, James Reddan — has retired, but Price still, occasionally, plays the piano as a musical outlet.

Regarding his career, Price stated that he hopes to eventually attend law school.

“I don’t know if I’m underselling it — it is a pretty big accomplishment. But it’s not, you know, passing the bar and becoming a full-fledged attorney … I never imagined that I would be licensed to practice law without first going to law school.”

Price looks forward to serving his community — especially with the knowledge that legal aid is expensive but necessary for many. “That’s where people like me come in, where I can charge significantly less and still get them the help they need within the scope of my license,” said Price.

For all interested in licensure, seek out the Oregon State Bar for information.



Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu

Oregon blooms

Written by: Claire Phillips | Entertainment Editor

If one is on the lookout for dazzling wildlife within Oregon, there are many places nearby to explore. Spring is the peak season to see bright flowers bloom. However, it is important to remember to be respectful of these natural areas. Be sure to follow guidelines, and don’t forget to pack adequate hiking equipment to keep oneself and others safe.

Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm: Marion County, OR — This large tulip farm showcases its colorful blooms annually, as a sign that spring has arrived in Oregon. One doesn’t have to simply look at the flowers; the farm also includes a variety of activities, such as the Tulip Market, wine tasting and even hot air balloon rides. The farm is currently open to visitors until May 5.

Saddle Mountain State Natural Area: Clatsop County, OR — Saddle Mountain is known for both its height and beloved wildflowers, with trails beginning in a picnic area and ending at the rocky peak. Saddle Mountain formed during the Miocene and served as a reserve for a variety of plant species during the Ice Age. This area is a fantastic place to see rare plant and animal species.

Cone Peak: Linn County, OR — Cone Peak is full of over 300 different wildflower species throughout spring. Not to be mistaken for the Cone Peak in California, Oregon’s Cone Peak is a six mile loop trail located near Cascadia. On the trail, hikers can expect to see volcanic craggy rock in addition to the wildflowers

Silver Falls State Park: Marion County, OR — In addition to the flowers the “crown jewel” of Oregon State Parks provides, Silver Falls is home to 10 stunning waterfalls. Silver Falls includes picnic areas, campgrounds and hiking trails for anyone interested in nature. Visitors might see blooms of yellow, purple and pink as they explore the park in spring. “Twilight” fans may even spot Bella and Edward in the lush treetops.

Tom McCall Preserve: Wasco County, OR — This natural preserve is named after Oregon’s late governor, Thomas Lawson McCall, who was dedicated to preserving nature in the state. Rare plant populations are monitored by ecologists, and in the spring, volunteers lead interpretive hikes. The preserve looks over the Columbia River Gorge and is filled with striking wildflowers from February to July. 

Marys Peak: Benton County, OR — Located in our very own Willamette Valley, Marys Peak never ceases to amaze visitors year-round. It has been designated as a Scenic Botanical Area due to its wildlife and plants. Peak wildflower bloom in Marys Peak occurs typically around mid-May to the end of June but has extended from April to July in some years.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Blooming spring recipes

Written by: Taylor Duff | Staff Writer

CHOPPED GREEK SALAD 

From start to finish: 20 min

Greek red wine vinaigrette dressing (purchase or make) 

Red onion 

Cucumber 

Grape tomatoes 

Fresh parsley 

Olives of choice 

Banana peppers 

Avocado

Salt and pepper to taste

Feta cheese to top

Begin by chopping your red onion, cucumber, grape tomatoes, banana peppers, olives and avocado and add to a large bowl. Next, roughly chop your parsley and sprinkle on top of the veggie mix. Then, drizzle the red wine vinaigrette over the veggie mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, toss together and sprinkle with feta cheese.       

LEMON PASTA

From start to finish: 45 min 

2 Tbs Chicken bouillon powder 

Angel hair pasta 

Half a stick of butter 

1Tbs of minced garlic 

1 Tbs of red pepper flakes 

Fresh parsley 

1 Cup grated parmesan 

2 lemons squeezed 

Salt and pepper to taste 

Start by boiling a pot of water large enough to fit the angel hair pasta and season the water with the chicken bouillon powder. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and stir periodically. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain your pasta once cooked according to the package. On medium heat in a large pan add the half stick of butter, minced garlic and red pepper flakes and stir until melted and combined. Now add in the drained pasta and some of the reserved pasta water with the fresh parsley, grated parmesan, juice from the lemons, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until combined and serve. 



BERRY COBBLER 

From start to finish: 70 min

1 cup of flour

1 cup of white sugar 

1 cup of milk 

1/4th cup melted butter 

A pack of mixed frozen or fresh berries about 2 cups 

In a large bowl combine flour, sugar and milk — whisk until combined. In a 9 by 13-inch pan, pour the melted butter, moving it around so it coats the bottom. Pour the mixture over the butter and top with the mixed berries. Place in a 180-degree oven for 50 minutes or until cooked through the cobbler. Let cool and enjoy.   

Contact the author at tduff@mail.wou.edu 

Spring break inside

Written by: Taylor Duff | Staff Writer

With spring break approaching, many students do not have the funds to travel or participate in expensive activities, leaving them to wonder what they will do during their break. Some are most likely catching up on sleep, but here are some ideas for how to spend one’s spring break, other than sleeping.  

Read a new book — Reading is proven to be beneficial to the mind, and there are many options out there for any genre or length. Audiobooks are also a great alternative because they can provide a more immersive experience for some. TikTok and other social media sites have many recommendations to discover.  

Watch a new TV series or have a movie marathon — Streaming services have many choices for film and TV. If one isn’t sure what they might like, try watching the first episode of a show or the trailer to see if it’s something one may be interested in. 

Play board games — Board games are underrated as there are always more to try out. Games are always fun to play time and time again. 

Try a new hobby — A new hobby can be exciting and something that could get a person out of their comfort zone. The most popular hobbies include painting, cooking, writing, gardening, video games and so much more. Another fun hobby one can try is pottery; many pottery shops offer a chance to try it out or paint some pottery pieces that have already been made. 

Try a new recipe — The internet is full of delicious and adventurous recipes that give one a chance to practice cooking skills and learn a thing or two. Not much of a cook? Try a new restaurant in the area and step outside of one’s comfort zone; this could lead to a new favorite dish.   

Listen to some new music — Music is a great way to decompress and enjoy the moment no matter where one might be. Try listening to a new artist and discover what one likes and dislikes.

Declutter — With spring coming, spring cleaning is also an option, which many don’t like to participate in, but if the moment arises and boredom is too prevalent then decluttering is a great way to get cleaning done and feel refreshed. This is also a good time to redecorate or take care of household tasks one has been putting off. 



Contact the author at tduff23@mail.wou.edu 

How to save money

Written by: Libby Thoma | Staff Writer

Saving is always important, as a little bit of savings can help in case of an emergency. This is close to impossible for most, especially those in college. This article is meant to give some ideas, but many are living paycheck to paycheck, and it is important to note that it is a privilege to be able to save money. 

Couponing — Although many are embarrassed to use coupons, couponing can save a person up to one thousand dollars per year. Couponfellow.com found that Americans can save about $1,465 per year. Coupon codes can be found through the mail, newspapers and magazines, apps and even in-store.

Budgeting — This is when one plans how and when to spend money, beginning with necessities. Start by calculating income, tracking spending, setting realistic goals, making a plan and sticking to it. Rocket Money is a safe online financial service that can help with budgeting. 

Scholarships and grants — Scholarships can be found on the Western Portal in the scholarship icon at the top of the page. Grants are money from the government that do not need to be repaid, these are given based on need. Grants can be found through websites such as Oregon Student Aid. One must ensure to fill out FAFSA before filing for scholarships and grants.

Work on one’s own time — College students looking for a job that fits with their schedule should consider working on their own time at jobs such as Instacart, DoorDash, Uber Eats and other services that allow one to choose their hours. These jobs are a way to earn money on a busy college — or other — schedule. This money can be an extra source of income to put into savings.

Set goals — Setting goals is an important step in saving money. Begin with setting a specific and realistic goal. Setting a deadline, and getting a savings account can assist with reaching said goal.

There are hundreds of ways to save money; to find more, find reputable websites to look over for ideas. 

Contact the author at ethoma23@mail.wou.edu

Meet the director

Written by: Hannah Field | News Editor

Content warning: this article includes mentions of assault and violence

Kristen Perry has her dream job.

Her first time applying for Director of Abby’s House at Western, Perry didn’t get the position — derailing her career path, although only temporarily. After graduating from Western, she experimented with other positions, jobs she loved and couldn’t keep, but found herself back in Monmouth. It was what she truly wanted to do — and maybe that’s why six months later, the position opened, as if it was waiting for her.

Since November 2021, Perry has been the Director of Abby’s House.

“In a way, I don’t like the title,” explained Perry sheepishly. “It’s like, oh, I’m talking to the most important person at Abby’s House — and that’s not necessarily true.”

What is true, however, is the very real existence of Abby’s House advocacy.

Perry is a confidential advocate — which, she stresses, is not the same as a therapist. The title, supported by a lengthy training program, allows for Perry to speak with individuals about a vast range of topics — often centering on trauma — and she cannot share that information with anyone else.

“I myself have experienced sexual assault and I experienced that while I was in college, which is why I got involved,” said Perry. “I get to work with survivors who are at their lowest. And I get to help bring them up — lift them up, mentor them — and also help them work through their trauma. I feel very special and very honored that people feel comfortable telling me their stories.”

Abby’s House represents a comfortable, open space — a sentiment Perry has promoted in the seemingly smallest of choices, like the decision to find a new name.

“Abby’s House, the Center for Equity and Gender Justice — nobody knows what Abby’s House means … that (it) doesn’t portray everything we encompass,” said Perry. After multiple name changes in the past, Perry’s on the hunt for an acronym that will better suit all of Abby’s House’s purposes. Some examples of which include internships, basic needs, safety training, violence prevention, providing resources and more.

The Abby’s House website will be updated to be easier on the eyes and more accurate. Abby’s House will also grow to encompass the Stonewall Center in the fall.

“I just want people to know we are truly here for everyone,” said Perry. “We will do the extra research. We will provide any extra resources.”

Perry has made it clear that she won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.

Contact the author at howlnews@mail.wou.edu.

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

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