redwood bark
Volume LXVII, No. 3
December 17, 2024
Larkspur, CA
Photo by Graham Weir
Varsity football makes history with two North Coast Section wins (p.20)
Editors-in-Chief: MatthewKnauer
CharlotteLacy BeckettTudor
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Gavin Newsom plans to ‘Trumpproof’ California NEWS BRIEFS
By Leina Khan and Tallulah Knill Allen
On Nov. 7, after Donald Trump was declared the winner of the 2024 presidential election, Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a proclamation convening a special session of the California Legislature. The special session began meeting on Dec. 2, and focuses on providing funding for an anticipated wave of court battles, as California prepares to defend against Trump’s expected actions on immigration, the environment, the economy, civil liberties and reproductive rights.
Assemblymember Damon Connolly spoke about California’s goals in this special assembly.
“The focus of the special session will be to ensure that the California Department of Justice and Attorney General has necessary resources to file legal action or defend the state as the case may be, as some of these Trump policies come into effect,” Connolly said.
Following Trump’s victory in the 2016 election, California took similar precautionary action. The state government declared California a sanctuary state for immigrants, prohibiting local law enforcement from automatically transferring immigrants to federal authorities. The state also adopted aggressive climate policies to encourage a zero-emission future. According to Connolly, California’s previous legislative action under the Trump administration included over 100 lawsuits.
“California has taken a lot of [legislative steps] to protect rights,” Connolly said. “We passed a constitutional amendment last election that enshrines the right to an abortion. We’ve [passed] done legislation that protects women from other states who want to seek an abortion here from being subject to retaliation from other states.”
Following the results of the 2024 election, Newsom and the California State Assembly aim to build upon these policies.
The issue of immigration is a particular point of concern in California. According to Advanced Placement (AP) Economics teacher Ann Tepovich, the California economy relies heavily on immigrant labor. — Therefore, the economy would be particularly impacted should Trump enact his proposed policies of stricter border control, a reversal of Biden-era policies, and increasing the detention and deportation of migrants.
“A [mass] deportation like this could create what we call ‘supply shocks’ to the economy, something that happens so quickly that the economy can’t respond. But if we change our immigration policies over time—so that employers have time to adapt—the economy can adapt to these new policies, which is much better than a sudden shock,” Tepovich said.
However, California’s status as a sanctuary state could play a role in how Trump policies affect the economy.
“California is a sanctuary state, which means that the state will not intervene to turn information about people over to [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] (ICE). That might delay the attempts of all of these deportation measures,” Tepovich said.
California is still taking action to protect immigrants within the state, as Connolly explained.
“Even though immigration is a federal issue, the state is still taking steps to strengthen protections of our immigrant communities, [such as] limiting how local law enforcement can cooperate with ICE,” Connolly said.
Electric vehicles will likely emerge as another point of contention between California and the Trump administration. If President Trump repeals the federal electric vehicle tax credit, which subsidizes the purchase of electric vehicles, Gov. Newsom has vowed that he will provide rebates to California residents. California has previously clashed with the Trump administration over climate change legislation surrounding transportation. In 2019, California, and 22 other states, sued the Trump administration for greenhouse gas emission and fuel economy standards for vehicles.
Even as the national landscape remains uncertain, California will continue to look towards the future in improving the quality of life for residents and beyond.
“California voters just passed the climate [and education bonds]. Each bond had $10 billion, so that is going to make a big impact. I think going forward, working on issues like that, and making communities get the resources they need, [is crucial],” Connolly said.
By Emily Garcia
Several months after the House of Representatives 7521 bill was passed which could ban TikTok, a petition to overturn the law was created. The bill required TikTok to cut connections with ByteDance, the Chinese-owned parent company of the app, or else the ban would push through in mid-January of 2025. The petition argued that the law went against the First Amendment and violated free speech of citizens. However, on Dec. 6, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit decided to uphold the law with a unanimous decision that could result in an official ban on TikTok within the next two months. TikTok and ByteDance may appeal to the Supreme Court but it is unknown if the Supreme Court will take up the case.
Link Crew hosted their annual two-hour-long Cocoa and Cram event on the evening of Dec. 12 to aid students in preparing for their finals. This year, 17 teachers opened their classroom doors to provide study spaces or group sessions for their students. In addition to these educational tools, complimentary snacks and hot cocoa were also offered by the Link Crew leaders and class. Students were able to stop by at any time throughout the event, and then head back to their classrooms and study groups.
Another Planet Entertainment announced on Dec. 4 that country artist Zach Bryan and Kings of Leons would headline the next big show in the Golden Gate Park Concert Series following the Outside Lands Festival, which will take place Aug. 8 through Aug. 10 in 2025. On the Polo Fields in Golden Gate Park, Zach Bryan will perform on Aug. 15, co-produced by Anschutz Entertainment Group. The concert is expected to last seven hours, starting at 3 p.m. and ending at 10 p.m., as the show will include additional artists and acts. Along with this, Another Planet Entertainment has an agreement with the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department that they will host more concerts the weekend following Outside Lands on the Polo Fields for three years. Included with the show are free San Francisco Municipal Railway rides to the field, which will be offered to ticket holders.
GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM promised to continue California’s electric vehicle rebate program if the Trump administration cuts federal funding for electric vehicles. However, Tesla vehicles may be excluded from this policy.
Photo by Julia Delsol
Photo by Charlotte Lacy
Photo by Julia Delsol
Tepovich
Photo by Nina Howard Cocoa and Cram:
Redwood diverts from falling national college freshman enrollment trend
By Matthew Milan
National college freshman enrollment dropped five percent in the fall of 2024, marking the first significant decline in freshman enrollment since 2020, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. While overall undergraduate enrollment has increased, the number of first-year students has fallen, signaling a broader shift in how Americans view the value of a four-year degree as more people question its relevance, affordability and investment return. However, Redwood has not followed this trend. According to Redwood’s official school profile, 92 percent of the class of 2024 planned on attending four-year colleges, well above the national average of 46 percent of high school graduates.
Nationally, the decline in college enrollment is driven by rising tuition costs, changes in the job market and a growing recognition of the idea that many careers offer competitive salaries without requiring a four-year degree. Senior John Kozubik, who plans to graduate early from Redwood to pursue a career as a diesel mechanic, believes new perceptions of success fuel the shift in college enrollment.
“I think that people are starting to see that there are
different ways to achieve a fulfilling career [than a college degree],” Kozubik said. “[Success] is not just about having a degree — it's about finding something you’re passionate about and good at.”
According to College Board, tuition has continued to rise, with public four-year in-state university tuition increasing by an average of 2.7 percent from 2023 to 2024, causing some students to question the financial return on a degree. Kozubik sees the growing trend of reconsidering college as a positive shift.
“I think it’s good that people are reconsidering college as the default path,” Kozubik said. “There are plenty of successful careers that don’t require a four-year degree.”
Additionally, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics stated that careers in skilled trades — which typically require certifications or apprenticeships rather than a four-year degree — can offer salaries comparable to or even exceeding those of some careers available to those who received degrees. Public confidence in the value of a college education has also decreased, with a report from Gallup and the Lumina Foundation showing that fewer adults believe a college degree is worth the cost. Financial concerns and the increasing appeal of skilled trades are shifting preferences from traditional higher education
toward alternative career paths.
School counselor Tami Wall believes Marin County's demographics play a major role in the area’s consistently high college attendance rates.
“[Marin] has a lot of educated parents, sothe expectation is that their children will also go to college,” Wall said. Kozubik believes that societal pressure often pushes students toward college, stopping them from exploring other career paths.
“A lot of people don’t try their hand at anything [besides academics] because they’ve been taught that college is the only option,” Kozubik said.
Kozubik highlighted how societal norms often discourage exploration of non-traditional paths, noting that many students are guided toward college as the default option from an early age.
“It’s a real waste when students don’t explore other paths simply because they've been led to believe that college is the only way to succeed,” Kozubik said.
Community colleges, which offer lessons in skilled trades and technical programs, reported a 1.2 percent increase in freshman enrollment, showing the rise of alternatives that do not require a four-year degree.
Kozubik sees the financial advantages of trades and believes that society needs to redefine what constitutes career success.
“You can make good money in trades, but people often overlook it because they are so focused on getting a degree,” Kozubik said.
While career-focused education is becoming more popular in other areas of the country, it has not been a major focus at Redwood.
“There is no significant demand for career-focused education here at Redwood yet, but if there were, the district would likely work to accommodate it,” Wall said.
Despite national trends showing a growing interest in career-focused education, Wall reiterated Redwood’s dedication to maintaining its focus on college preparation.
“For now, our focus is on preparing students for higher education, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon,” Wall said.
mmilan@redwoodbark.org
Coffee and a buzz: Menke Park to permit food vendors to set up shop
By Elsa Sherman
On Nov. 4, the Corte Madera Town Council approved the development of a one-year pilot program to allow small vendors to sell in Menke Park at Piccolo Pavillion in four designated parking spots. The city plans to put out a comment box so community members can voice their opinions on the program while it operates.
Director of Community Development in Corte Madera Amy Lyles surveyed community members on their thoughts on the program.
“Overall, we had really positive input. People want to see more activity, vibrancy and foot traffic in Menke Park,” Lyle said.
Piccolo Pavilion has an electrical outlet, making it a more viable spot for potential vendors than other locations such as Corte Madera’s Town Park. However, Menke Park still has limitations, specifically concerning water access.
“[The city] doesn’t have water available so the food trucks would have to bring their own. [The city] would have very limited electricity [available for vendors]. There is also going to be a small fee for leasing the parking spaces and the electricity,” Lyle said.
Currently, the program only has one applicant: Amy Hughes, who initially proposed the idea to the town council. Hughes is a longtime member of the Redwood community and is known for bringing pastries to staff. She plans to open a food trailer called Town Buzz Cafe, where coffee and pastries will be sold and locals can stop by and interact with each other.
“I want Town Buzz Cafe to be a spot for people to disconnect and reconnect. People need a place where they can come together on common grounds and be in the moment and enjoy the park and company,” Hughes said.
However, the program has raised concerns regarding how it would affect the park and the people who use it
daily, as complaints were raised about how it may affect parking.
Junior Dean Wozniak is a resident of Corte Madera who lives very close to Piccolo Pavillion. Because there is no available street parking near his home, he parks at Menke Park.
“Whenever there's an event at [Piccolo Pavillion], I have to find somewhere else to park. I would [shop at the food trailers], but I need parking [that may be taken up by the food trailer],” Wozniak said.
However, according to Hughes, the food trailer will only take up two of the four parking spots designated for
the program. The remaining parking spots will still be available for public use as long as Hughes remains the only approved applicant.
Overall, the program aims to create a community space in Corte Madera for residents and visitors to enjoy in the mornings.
“I think it would be nice to have a place where people can hang out, have a coffee and a cake and enjoy that beautiful gazebo. I love the idea of people just learning to be together. Connection is really important,” Hughes said.
esherman@redwoodbark.org
HUGHES’ FOOD TRAILER will only take up two parking spaces, and customers can sit at Piccolo Pavillion to enjoy the crisp morning air while drinking a coffee friends.
Photo by Elsa Sherman
Infographic by Lily Skinner
Northgate Theater closes after 30 years of film
By
On Nov. 10, Cinemark Century Northgate Theater in San Rafael closed its doors permanently. The Northgate Theater opened 30 years ago and played a prominent role in many students' childhoods. According to a December Bark survey, 83 percent of students have attended a movie at Northgate Theater. However, only 32 percent of students have attended a movie at Northgate Theater over the last three months.
Theaters have been closing more frequently since the COVID-19 pandemic, as viewers have switched to online streaming services and opted out of visiting local theaters.
Northgate Theater isn’t the only local theater plagued by issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cinemark temporarily closed the Century Cinema in Corte Madera on March 16, 2020, and later permanently closed the theater in June 2020. According to the Consumer News and Business Channel (CNBC), the total number of movie theater screens in the United States has decreased by about 3,000 since 2019.
Senior Kaitlyn Widman used to go to the Northgate Theater about once a month before COVID-19, but her visits decreased during the pandemic. Widman last went to Northgate Theater during the summer and was surprised to hear about its closure.
“The [Northgate] mall itself has kind of deteriorated, but I felt like that movie theater always stayed strong [so] I was surprised [to hear of the closure]. I didn't believe it at first because I never thought it would close,” Widman said.
Widman has fond memories of going to the movie theater, whether on a fifth-grade field trip to see “Wonder,” or experiencing the tearful story of the Judy Bloom adaptation, “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.”
“That movie theater is nostalgic to me. [Northgate Theater is] the one I remember going to as a little kid,” Widman said.
Widman believes the fact that Northgate was an indoor mall, the only one in Marin made it a different experience for moviegoers.
“Northgate used to be a huge mall, and you got to do whatever. It [also] had the most ‘movie theater’ vibe. It's different than, [for example], the Larkspur Landing Cinema because [Northgate’s] theaters are bigger,” Widman said.
Senior John Rodriguez grew up attending movies at Northgate and was a frequent visitor until the closure.
“[Northgate Theater] is the only theater I've been to. I've watched all my movies there,” Rodriguez said. “I always went there as a kid and still go there now. But I can’t now because it’s closed.”
While senior Bella Beach visited Northgate Theater almost monthly, she ultimately expected the closure.
“I had an initial shock, but I wasn’t completely surprised because everything else was closing [at Northgate], and [the theater] was always empty,” Beach said.
Michael Liberatore, General Manager at Merlone Geier Partners, which owns Northgate Mall, was unavailable for comment.
Ross Guehring, the proprietor of Town Hall Public Affairs in the San Francisco Bay Area, was excited about the mall's future plans.
“With respect to [Northgate’s] redevelopment plan, we see an exciting opportunity to welcome a new theater operator, an innovative entertainment concept or other retailers as part of our revitalization efforts,” Guehring said in an email. “In any scenario, we are confident that the Northgate Town Square redevelopment project will attract strong interest from a variety of new tenants.”
According to the city of San Rafael website, the Northgate Town Square redevelopment project proposes “a comprehensive redevelopment of the existing mall into an open-air ‘main street experience,’ surrounded by mixeduse development of retail and up to 1,422 residences. The Project proposes to reduce the existing commercial retail from 775,677 square feet to 225,100 square feet and construct high-density multifamily residential buildings in the form of townhome units and apartment buildings ranging in height from two to seven stories.”
On Dec. 2, the Northgate housing plan was approved at a public hearing held by San Rafael City Council, yet the issue concerning the open space left by the Northgate Theater closure was left unresolved.
asreba@redwoodbark.org
St. Hilary’s Giving Tree sparks holiday connection
By Jamie Glennon
The Giving Tree, a time-honored tradition of Saint Hilary Catholic Church (St. Hilary’s) in Tiburon, was set up on Nov. 30 for families to grab yellow-star information card “ornaments” with wish lists from children of low-income families.
The Giving Tree tradition is part of St. Hilary’s effort to give back to the community during the holidays, which can be a stressful and financially trying time for families. Before COVID-19 hit, St. Hilary’s encouraged families in The Hilarita, a community of affordable housing units in Tiburon, to build Christmas wish lists. These wish lists contained specific toys, clothes or everyday items like toiletries. However, in recent years, this tradition has shifted towards donating gift cards to places like Target, Amazon or Safeway in hopes of helping families make meaningful holiday memories with gifts they pick out themselves.
Thea Fiatarone, Director of Missions at St. Hilary’s, spearheaded the event and was grateful for the Tiburon community's quick engagement.
Giving Tree wishlists, which fell below the expected number of 60 children for St. Hilary’s community to support. With a lesser-than-anticipated turnout, the ornaments on the tree were snatched by the end of the 9 a.m. mass on Dec. 1 after being set up just the night before.
“We are definitely going to expand [the Giving Tree] next year to more communities,” Fiatarone said.
2024 marked a return to the traditional roots of the Giving Tree tradition, which encouraged people to donate physical items rather than gift cards for families in need.
“The theme of our Christmas at [St. Hilary’s] this year is ‘A Classic Christmas,’ so we are giving a physical gift to [each] child, not just a gift card… and usually [that gift] is [worth] about $50,” Fiatarone said.
There’s the spirit of Christmas, and that’s what we are trying to keep alive at St. Hilary’s
Thea Fiatarone, Director of Missions
“I like to just remind everyone that the absolute worst thing that happened with the Giving Tree was that we ran out of gifts, and that’s actually the best thing that could have happened,” Fiatarone said.
The strong participation in less than 24 hours showcased the role of community during faith-based connection. St. Hilary’s parishioner Eddie Savino has supported the cause over the past two decades that he has been active in the church.
“There are a lot of people who are not as fortunate as [St. Hilary’s parishioners] and for us as a community—a church community especially—to be able to gather up our resources and to then present them to people who don't have [a lot] is just a good ‘giving’ feeling,” Savino said. “As little as it seems to us—I don’t know what it’s like to receive these gifts, but if you don’t have very much and you’re getting these gifts—it’s pretty exciting.”
Savino’s sentiments are shared by many parishioners, especially given that the tradition has shifted toward more gift card-based donations since COVID-19.
“If we can make that little bit of an impression or that little bit of a difference on someone’s life, then it’s really well worth what we’re doing,” Savino said.
The celebration focused on combining community actions with faith-based engagement in the St. Hilary's community. Like Savino, Fiatarone hopes families will feel more support than ever before in the 2024 Christmas season with the high turnout of generous donations.
“[St. Hilary’s] actually did not have an official giving tree last year… and it was a decision when talking with parishioners that we wanted to bring it back in an official way [for this Advent season],” Fiatarone said. “We started with The Hilarita, and that was for precise gifts. We asked the families at The Hilarita for gift suggestions for what their children would want, and that’s what went onto the Giving Tree.”
Fiatarone mentioned that there were only 34 children involved in this year’s
Fiatarone plans to continue this initiative of physical gifts in future years, as feedback from the community has continuously shown that people feel most involved in the Christmas spirit when they can pick out gifts for local children.
“There’s the spirit of Christmas, and that’s what we are trying to keep alive at St. Hilary’s because when we just start to give gift cards, the spirit of Christmas goes away,” Fiatarone said.
As families continue purchasing presents for families in need of extra holiday support, many have felt uplifted by knowing that they are making a difference in the local community’s holiday spirit.
To continue reading, see the online version at redwoodbark.org.
jglennon@redwoodbark.org
Aurora Sreba
THE CINEMA CENTURY Northgate Theater in San Rafael is now closed off to the public.
Photo by Aurora Sreba
WITH THE CLOSURE of Northgate Theater, some students like senior Kaitlyn Widman are finding alternatives to enjoy movies.
Photo by Aurora Sreba
IN THE SPIRIT of giving, parish members are encouraged to donate toys to children in the community.
Photo by Jamie Glennon
Town Center hosts 32nd annual turkey drive for SF-Marin Food Bank
By Lynette Ki
Town Center in Corte Madera is hosting its 32nd Annual Town Center Corte Madera Food Drive, which runs through Dec. 31. All donations will go to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank, which serves over 50,000 households weekly.
Non-perishable food donations can be dropped off across from Arhaus Furniture inside the Town Center. Community members are encouraged to simply place items under the turkey’s wing to contribute.
Town Center are really invested in it. They love it and [have] done quite a bit of work repainting it this year and sprucing it up.”
For freshman Lucy Farrow, the food drive has become a tradition since her time in elementary school.
“I went to Neil Cummins Elementary School and we used to go on field trips to the turkey and it’s [become] something my mom [and I] do,” Farrow said.
[Donating food] is not going to be a whole part of your year, but it’s going to be a big part of someone else’s.
The turkey was created by retired stage technician and set designer John “Lucky” Lister. Lister had an impressive career, working with notable filmmakers like George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola. Lister designed and constructed the giant turkey in Corte Madera in 1992. Since then, the turkey has undergone significant upgrades to withstand weather conditions.
Lucy Farrow, freshman
“The SF-Marin Food Bank approached people at [Industrial Light & Magic] and I was free, so it came to me and I said yes,” Lister said. “Now, the people here at
Today, the tradition gives her family a meaningful way to give back during the holiday season, honoring the memories of her childhood visits to the turkey.
“[Donating food] is not going to be a whole part of your year, but it’s going to be a big part of someone else's,” Farrow said.
This holiday season, join the community in donating to the Town Center Corte Madera Food Drive. Drop off nonperishable items by the turkey display and help make a difference for local families in need.
lki@redwoodbark.org
Photo Survey
What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Joe Connolly Freshman
“Spending the holidays in Montana with my family.”
“Cooking family dinner and eating it all together.”
“Going to Tahoe and skiing with my family.”
“Making latkes with my family.”
“I’M PRETTY PROUD of it, and thankfully a lot of people helped me, “ said the designer, Lucky Lister, in front of his iconic turkey display.
Photo by Lynette Ki
Sophia Rubel Senior
Tobias Foster Junior
Tara Fischer Sophomore
opinion opinion
Separating art from the artist: A weak moral cop-out
By Madison Bishop
It’s 9 a.m., and I’m sitting in the library during my free period when the viral sound of podcast influencer Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia’s TikTok “storytime” floods the room. My peers are listening intently to the horrors LaPaglia recounts about her abusive relationship with country music star Zach Bryan. LaPaglia recently came forward claiming that she declined Bryan’s $12 million nondisclosure agreement after their breakup to speak up for those who have been emotionally abused or silenced. “That’s terrible,” a student says, with brows furrowed in concern.
now appears to me as a moral get-out-ofjail-free card to continue enjoying the work of somebody who has done harm.
Although Bryan’s recent scandal has made great waves in the media, countless other famous artists continue to receive the same forgiving treatment from society, including Kanye West, Bob Marley, Gwen Stefani and Eminem. Yet, net worths for these individuals range from the tens of millions to over a billion dollars and these accusations seem to do little to alter the size of their fanbase.
to face the uncomfortable truth that, by continuing to financially support these artists, we are contributing to the harm they cause.
Holiday music matters
By Jake Post
But it doesn’t even take a few days before I hear Bryan’s discography playing from those very same phones.
I couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable. Why the sudden disconnect? How could they empathize with someone’s pain, only to turn around and support the person who perpetuated that harm? The infamous
This isn’t just about “cancel culture” to dethrone rich artists. Imagine navigating a world where public figures make prejudiced comments that directly offend you. When their work is loudly projected at school, parties or movie theaters, it mocks an endorsement of those remarks. It may not be a personal attack, but it could feel like one.
I understand the difficulty. It’s hard to let go of your favorite songs, albums or actors, especially if they’ve had a lasting impact on your life and mental health. If you find giving them up to be difficult, there are some ways to enjoy the art with limited contribution to the artist’s paycheck. Instead of blasting their music at full volume, you can download their songs offline, preventing the artists from profiting off your plays via streaming platforms. If you love a certain movie or TV show that has problematic elements, consider watching it on a third-party streaming site. Maybe only wear that one artist’s merchandise when you’re lounging at home and not walking around in public where you could be actively promoting them.
In a world where music and media consumption is off the charts, it’s important to take accountability for who we give platforms. So, when you may reflect on your 2024 Spotify Wrapped, take a moment
Christmas trees, cold weather and bright lights are obvious triggers that symbolize the Christmas spirit. But, hiding behind these headliners is Christmas music. While sometimes brushing right by our ears, the soft beat and signature melodies invisibly set the tone for an amazing Christmas season for all.
Whether it’s the cheerful “Jingle Bells” or the cozy “Let It Snow,” holiday season songs fill the air with a festive life, often playing behind our ears when doing daily activities during December. While many of us are too busy handling the tasks at hand, the songs fill our heads with warm emotions. According to Biola University, “Christmas music reminds us of happy memories around the holidays that might not be recalled any other time of the year.” Through these familiar tunes, people all around America are invoked with a sense of togetherness during the surprisingly stressful season of the holidays. Along with the aforementioned Christmas headliners, music can create another jolly Christmas. So, the next time you are doing something that you enjoy, turn on some holiday music and fill your ears with bliss.
provide an exciting, marketable way of sharing your music taste (or, depending on its contents, not.) But Wrapped isn’t all the fun that it seems. Whether it’s in the negative effects of the online consumption of art or the data privacy issues it poses, Spotify Wrapped has multiple underlying concerns that we should consider.
Before Nov. 1, the last day before Spotify stops counting your listens, social media feeds are flooded with content reminding listeners that the clock is ticking for them to fix their Wrapped, as people scramble to correct a year of “embarrassing” songs or misguided artistic consumption. While this is a fun trend, it reflects the ways in which Spotify, and other platforms like
technology is restricting our authentic consumption of art. We use these datadriven representations of the music we consume to prove to ourselves, and those around us, that we did consume it.
Spotify’s slogan for their 2023 campaign said it best: “Wrapped or it didn’t happen.” If a song didn’t leave enough of an impact to end up on your yearly Wrapped, did it even matter? A shareable Spotify Wrapped is just another label that many aspire to attain.
Additionally, there are numerous concerns with Spotify’s use of user data through Wrapped. No matter how aesthetically our music tastes may be presented, the fact remains that Spotify is harvesting hours and hours of our
people to not only participate in their own surveillance, but celebrate it and share it and brag about it to the world.”
The data about the music we listen to is inherently personal. It shows our age, mental state, and how we wanted to feel and when.All the neon colors and silly commentary of Wrapped aim to appease the underlying facts: that Spotify is always listening to what you’re listening to.
So before you judge your Wrapped too harshly, it’s important to take a step back and reflect on why it is that you don’t feel proud of your listening habits (along with contemplating how Taylor Swift became your most listened-to artist for the third year in a row.) And it’s also essential to think about how and why it is that Spotify can take over the internet for a few days at a time, and how its use of our data furthers its own goals as a corporation and its dominion over the streaming industry. But all that aside, no matter what your Wrapped says, you made it through 2024 and listened to a lot of (at times questionable) music along the way. That’s enough to celebrate this holiday season.
A beautiful aspect of holiday music is the sense of nostalgia that it brings. With each note, people start to reminisce about the holiday spirit. These songs can bring back memories of family, fun and past Christmas experiences.
For my family and I, Christmas music is a given, especially when my extended family comes to town. While decorating the tree or baking cookies, having “Jingle Bell Rock” in the background always makes it better. Holiday music, whether it’s for Hanukkah, Christmas or even Halloween, brings cheer. Especially for Christmas, the sound of bells always reminds me of the warm holiday that awaits. tknillallen@redwoodbark.org
jpost@redwoodbark.org
Illustration by Nadia Massoumi
Illustration by Brooklyn Saputo
What’s really in Marin’s political closet?
By Taylor Allan
Have you noticed a surge of Republicans coming out of the conservative closet since Donald Trump’s victory in November? Marin has long been cloaked in blue, but many that live here know there is more beneath this decades old fabric. With Trump's recent victory, this liberal illusion has started to fade, revealing just how many conservatives quietly reside in Marin County. It's time to unmask Marin’s hidden conservatism and acknowledge the hypocrisy in the community’s liberal preaching, which often contradicts its actions and history.
The day after the election, everywhere I looked, another teenager seemed to be highfiving friends about “their boy’s” victory. Teenagers and adults alike announced their political standings online, from newly following the president-elect to reposted stories. Although it was shocking to witness this at my own school, I wasn’t surprised by the number of Republicans in Marin, considering the county’s historically conservative views.
as banks made it incredibly difficult for them to be eligible for any mortgage. This conservative nature has really never left Marin in the past 91 years, as most cities in Marin remain predominantly white, reflecting how the county’s conservative values have long been intertwined with racial exclusion. From voter patterns to the systemic racism entrenched in policies like redlining, Marin’s past reveals disconnect between our political actions and the ideals we claim to uphold.
The conservative rhetoric has shifted greatly over the years.
According to past Bark surveys, in the 1972 and 1984 presidential elections, over 48 percent of Redwood’s student body stated that they would vote for the Republican candidate —reflecting Marin’s underlying conservative values. Beyond voter status, Marin has been historically conservative, and even racist, when it came to integrating people of color into the majority of Marin towns. According to Marin County’s official website, in 1933, under the Franklin Roosevelt presidency, the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation was passed, employing creditworthiness assessments for mortgages that became extremely race-based. This led to the “redlining” of certain neighborhoods—primarily African American ones—that were labeled “hazardous” for mortgages. Unfortunately, this forced most African Americans out of Marin County,
This conservative rhetoric has shifted greatly over the years, becoming far more muted and secretive as being a Republican in Marin County has become taboo. But, with Trump’s first presidential win in 2016 and his re-election in 2024, conservative-leaning Marinites now feel more confident and accepted as they step out of the so-called “political closet.” According to CA.gov, since the 2020 presidential election, there has been an almost two percent drop in Democratic voters in Marin County. Though that percentage appears small, it accounts for a difference of approximately 5,881 Marin residents voting Republican in 2024. And Marinites seem to be following a greater trend set by all Californians.
According to the New York Times, Californians voted 63.5 percent for President Biden and 34.3 percent for Trump in 2020, while, according to AP News, in 2024 Californians voted 58.5 percent for Harris and 38.3 percent for Trump. These political trends challenge the long-held perception of California—and Marin in particular—as being solidly liberal.
The truth is that Marin County likes to believe that we are liberal, but our actions often don’t align with our words. We love to advocate for the homeless and those in need, but then vote against low-income housing. We protest against climate change, yet we historically refuse to fund or even utilize public transit. We proudly declare we are accepting, but then push people of color into
another neighborhood. We claim we are inclusive, but we support the “Not In My Back Yard” movement. Simply put, we often don’t practice what we preach. We must educate ourselves about our past and remind ourselves about our core values, while actually taking action to bring them to fruition instead of merely being performative. Only by aligning our actions with our values will Marin become the progressive community we claim to be.
tallan@redwoodbark.org
Trump’s war on the Department of Education is a war on students
By Annie Burlingame
I’ve always been taught to value my education, especially as a woman. Education is not just a privilege but a path to opportunity. It gives you a voice in shaping the future of this country. Despite the importance of education, Donald Trump has proposed dismantling the department that funds it.
“We are going to close the Department of Education in Washington, D.C. and send it back to the States, where it belongs and let the States run our educational system as it should be run,” stated Trump’s campaign website.
However, the very idea of removing national oversight and creating a curriculum on a state-by-state basis threatens the quality, depth and fairness of students' education as a whole. One of the most immediate and concerning impacts of Trump's proposal to defund the Department of Education lies in the potential for an increase in educational inequality.
In the past, Title I, a federal initiative, has helped lowincome schools, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act guaranteed support for students with disabilities. These organizations, acts and initiatives, along with many others guaranteed by the federal government, helped level the playing field for millions of students. Without these programs, many students won’t receive the same opportunities as others because it will be much harder for school districts with little funds to supply support programs for those requiring extra assistance.
On top of funding disparities, the Department of Education ensures states don't have biased curricula. If states decide what information will be included in textbooks and the overall curriculum, there is a grave possibility for dangerous bias. Curricula becoming biased
is already a reality, with some states banning books and removing lessons about race, gender and other critical issues from their curricula. This ultimately skews lessons to differing political points, making it hard for students to distinguish fact from false. According to PEN America, an organization dedicated to preserving free expression of thought through literature, there were 10,046 book bans in the 2023 to 2024 school year in 29 states and 220 public school districts. Books include novels like The Handmaid's Tale, which I had the opportunity to read recently in my Advanced Placement English Literature Class. The novel made me realize how lucky I am to have rights in a world where many women don’t. But it also opened my eyes to how quickly the government can take away individuals' rights. While this article isn't a review of the book, I think it's important to mention how well Margaret Atwood described everyday sexism and largerscale assaults that women face frequently. When books like The Handmaid’s Tale are banned, children fail to learn about issues like misogyny, these problems get swept under the rug and then are more likely to continue.
Education is not just a privilege but a path to opportunity.
to tailor curricula to their communities’ needs while claiming that federal oversight wastes taxpayer dollars. While this claim might seem reasonable at first glance, in reality, it is not that strong. For starters, without a national standard, education would become inconsistent, resulting in students in different states having varying viewpoints of our nation's history. A prime example of this is The United Daughters of the Confederacy, a group that sought to rewrite the history of the Confederacy and the American Civil War by campaigning to remove books from schools that they deemed biased against the Confederacy. They also developed teaching techniques to spread false narratives to children, and they targeted teachers who did not adhere to their beliefs by forcing their resignation. While this campaign occurred in the early 1900s, its impacts are still prevalent in southern culture today. This highlights the significant effect banning literature can have.
Despite this, supporters of Trump's plan believe this decentralization offers benefits. Specifically, they argue that dismantling the federal Department of Education is beneficial because local governments are better equipped
In addition to national standards being inconsistent, federal oversight has been crucial for progress within the education system; one primary example is the desegregation of schools following the landmark Brown v. Board of Education in 1954. Specifically, the Department of Education was tasked with helping enforce desegregation when southern states fought against it.
The bottom line is that the Department of Education is making good use of resources, which is crucial to the future of our country. Donald Trump’s plan to dismantle the department would harm students and younger generations by increasing educational inequality, weakening national standards and allowing states to create biased curricula. This approach risks lowering the quality of education and failing to prepare students for the future. Dismantling would not only harm students but jeopardize the foundation of equal opportunity that education should provide.
Illustration by Nadia Massoumi
Illustration by Brooklyn Saputo
The problem with forced diversity in entertainment
By Cora Champommier
When watching a television show, movie or anything online, people love to see characters similar to themselves. However, if you aren’t white, until recent years, it’s been hard to find a relatable connection. In an attempt to avoid pushback from the media or Generation Z and seem “progressive,” it feels as though producers have dropped diversity bombs into their work that aren’t genuine nor address the real problem of under-representation of minorities.
Take, for example, Pixar Animations Studios, which has long been recognized for its storytelling and depth. One standout example was “Wall-E”. Released in June of 2008, the movie follows the last robot left on a barren and waste-landed Earth as he meets evolved humans and other robots. The film earned nearly a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes due to its ability to form an emotional connection between the viewer and a literal piece of metal. This is similar to “The Wild Robot,” which was released in September of 2024 and got outstanding reviews for a similar reason. Both Wall-E and The Wild Robot achieved major success simply due to embedding their stories with strong messages and themes rather than appealing to everyone with a
Hollywood needs to release its tensed shoulders and take a breath.
surplus of characters of every background. In contrast, Walt Disney Studios, who owns Pixar, came out with “Strange World,” in November of 2022, featuring an interracial couple, an openly gay son, a three-legged dog and what they call a “mischievous blob” who travel into the unknown land beneath their world. Forced diversity like this comes on so strong and often fails at truly representing minority groups. The characteristics of these characters add nothing but just “check a box” for producers to say they are inclusive. When done poorly, it pushes the audience away from the movie and possibly an actually good storyline.
On the other hand, Disney’s “Oye Primos” took an aggressive approach to creating an animated children’s show representing Latin culture. At the start of each episode, the theme song is played which introduces the large Latino family. There are definitely some memorable names, including “Nacho,” “Nachito,” “Chacha” and “Cookita” to name a few. The characters are portrayed as dirty and uncontrollable, emphasizing stereotypical and racist beliefs. Despite having a Latin creator and being created to have more diverse children’s cartoon shows, it seems to have backfired with consistently poor reviews. If there is a lack of representation, then those identities
should be portrayed as their real-life characteristics rather than an overdone rendering. The background of a character should elevate a storyline or do it justice, like the lovable shows of “Black-ish,” “Never Have I Ever” or “Bridgerton.”
Entertainment was created with the intent to entertain an audience. When producers attempt to create groundbreaking strides in diversity, nearly every time it
goes against their goals. Hollywood needs to release its tensed shoulders and take a breath. It seems that everyone is so uptight and nervous about causing controversy that conflict and underwhelming media are created. If the industry continues to produce such “enlightened” movies, neither side of the screen will be pleased. cchampommier@redwoodbark.org
Sorry not sorry: It’s time to stop apologizing
By Nadia Massoumi
My whole life I have been overly apologetic. The words “I’m sorry” have become human nature to me—an unconscious habit I’ve never thought to break. Most of the time, my apologies are unnecessary. Saying sorry has become my way of thanking others, excusing myself, clarifying my misheard words, and introducing myself—rarely used to express genuine remorse or evade conflict. I’ve noticed this kind of behavior not only in myself but in my peers as well. It feels like we young people, especially young women, are always apologizing. Still, the problem is that over-apologizing to the extent that it becomes habitual, doesn’t make you a better person but hurts your self-esteem and credibility with others.
Human beings apologize for a multitude of reasons. We are social creatures who feel a need to be liked and instinctively apologize to appear more likable. We also might apologize because we have a false sense of guilt or when we want to express
empathy for others. But apologizing unconsciously over circumstances we can’t control can damage both our selfperception and the way others perceive us. For one thing, over-apologizing can significantly lower your self-esteem. By assuming the problems of others are the fault of your own, it is easy to feel guilty for merely taking up space. On the contrary, choosing not to apologize for unnecessary reasons can actually improve your self-esteem. According to a study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, participants who stopped over-apologizing showed signs of, “greater self-esteem, increased feelings of power (or control) and integrity.” From this perspective, reducing the amount of apologies we make can lift a massive emotional weight off of our shoulders.
Not only does unnecessary apologizing impact the way we perceive ourselves, but it can seriously weaken the way others perceive us as well. This could strip a person of their power in personal and professional relationships. According to Tara Swart, a neuroscientist and Forbes contributor, “Apologizing when we have done something wrong is a real strength, but compulsive apologizing presents as a weakness at work and in personal relationships.” When a person over-apologizes it can come off as less confident, undermining the strength of more meaningful apologies.
Unfortunately, the act of excessive apologizing doesn’t impact every person equally. Much research has concluded that women apologize much more than their male counterparts. A study at the University of Waterloo, Canada found that women tend to apologize more often than men because men have, “a higher
threshold for what constitutes offensive behavior.” This is because much of our over-apologizing as women is societally conditioned. According to Brenda Reiss, a forgiveness coach and author, “For generations, women have been conditioned to be agreeable and accommodating, and I will say it: passive…Frequent use of ‘I’m sorry’ in unnecessary situations is more than a habit; it manifests a long history of societal expectations.” Since the Victorian Era, women have been socially accepted as less competent or authoritative than men. Excessive apologizing mirrors this idea, sending the message that our presence is a nuisance or intrusion when in reality women provide valuable contributions. Apologizing less can be an incredibly effective way to reverse these expectations and encourage female empowerment.
This is not to say that apologizing cannot be beneficial in our social interactions with others. In fact, research conducted by the Harvard Business School has found that apologies actually increase our likeability. But, the problem arises when our need to be liked by others controls our actions and behaviors. Apologizing less doesn’t have to mean choosing to be impolite. There are many alternatives to “I’m sorry” that allow you to acknowledge others without demeaning yourself. Transitioning from “I’m sorry” to “Excuse me,” is one fantastic place to start. The most important step toward apologizing less is by practicing self-awareness. Take a mental note every time you apologize unnecessarily and write it down if needed. See what triggers cause you to apologize and pay attention every time they occur so that, when the time comes, you know when to change your behavior. All it takes is one small change in vocabulary to instigate a complete shift in confidence.
nmassoumi@redwoodbark.org
by Nadia Massoumi
Illustration by Cora Champommier
editorial: Facing holiday conversations head on
How to respecfully advocate for inclusivity and change
According to a November Bark survey, 77 percent of students have heard a relative say something insensitive at a family gathering, but only 30 percent of students have corrected them on their behavior. Although it may feel awkward or uncomfortable, it is important for our generation — and Redwood students especially — to have open conversations with their relatives and challenge bigoted views. As students mature and become more informed, it is crucial that we understand the importance of respectfully advocating for inclusivity and change.
To begin with, it is necessary to understand what makes an insensitive statement so an individual can identify the harmful remark before speaking up. Charged language can be phrases or statements that, intentionally or not, highlight stereotypes usually directed at minorities or a specific group of people. Jokes and comments about gender roles and racial slurs may seem harmless to some but perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce biases for those affected.
Although not only older generations can make these comments, studies have shown that they often struggle to adapt to evolving societal norms. As humans age, their ability to adapt to change gradually diminishes.
According to Steve Taylor, a senior lecturer in psychology at Leeds Beckett University, as the world evolves, older people may feel unfamiliar with new expectations or threatened by the presence of people who are not the same as them. This makes it harder for them to understand those who are different from them, leading to perspectives that do not grasp the full extent of people’s identities and realities.
This generational gap can make addressing remarks especially challenging when considering cultural norms emphasizing respect for older relatives. In many cases, age will trump reason in an argument or discussion, meaning the older and, therefore, “wiser” person will always be correct. Unfortunately, while it is important that elders are respected and valued in society, this should not come with an easy “get out of jail free” card that elders can take advantage of whenever they do something wrong.
POLICY: All editorials are unsigned and have been approved by the majority of The Bark staff.
When dealing with an incident, whether it be an unintentionally insensitive comment or a derogatory rant, there are a couple of main ways to effectively confront a relative. According to Learning for Justice, an education center focusing on learning
A BARK to final grade calculators. A 132 percent is totally achievable.
A BITE to finals week. Thanks for being the Grinch that stole my sleep schedule.
A BARK to Gossip Girl being back on Netflix. You know we love you, XOXO Bark.
A BITE to Chromebooks. We are still waiting...
and reflection about race in the United States, there are important action steps to learn to speak out confidently.
First and foremost, you must be ready. Tell yourself that you will speak up and not remain silent when an incident occurs. Be aware of how the other person might react and whether they could become defensive and escalate the situation further.
The second step is to identify and point out biased behavior from the speaker during an incident by repeating it or asking for clarification. This will help someone hear what they are saying more clearly and realize the intolerance of the statement on their own. Use the knowledge you have learned from classes like Social Issues to identify and point out biased language.
Step three is setting limits. Let the speaker know that their comments are not welcome around you. Instead of attempting to control them, control the situation at hand. Even if they do not understand why their comments are prejudiced, ask them to respect your space and not make the comments around you.
Finally, step four is being vigilant. Keep setting boundaries even if the person does not change instantly. Over time, consistent actions can prove to them one step at a time that their mindset is biased.
The broader issue of elders getting away with intolerance of different variations at the dinner table reflects how deep these views are ingrained into society, often passed down through generations. When these hurtful comments are accepted or ignored, they teach younger generations that discrimination is accepted and tolerated, reinforcing stereotypes and preventing change.
During this holiday season, it is essential to politely but firmly teach relatives about everchanging cultural norms. They should not be punished or berated but instead educated about how treating everyone equally and respectfully extends to the remarks made at a family gathering. Relatives may not believe they are saying something offensive, but if we call them out and communicate respectfully, they will begin to rethink their perspectives, creating genuine social progress.
Have an opinion regarding anything that appears in The Bark or in general? We encourage our readers to submit letters to the editor. Letters to The Bark should be 500 words or fewer, typed if possible and signed. They must emailed to bark@redwoodbark.org.
A BARK to Wicked ___________.We just held space for it.
A BITE to store holiday playlists. All we want for Christmas is a break from the same five songs!
A BARK to ED announcements. An early rejection is still an early decision!
A BITE to our final grades. We C we’re not getting our grades up.
A BARK to hoodie season, though not boogie season. #fluseason.
A BITE to Mariah Carey. Is it time yet?
BARKS and BITES are the collective opinions of the BARK staff concerning relevant issues. BARKS are in praise of accomplishments, while BITES criticize decisions or events.
Reporters
Jake Post
Adela Tabak
Richard Byrne
Tessa Marshall
Gabrielle Franklin
Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
Mason Garbo
Matthew Milan
Kate Morgan
Finn Nelson
Jack Block
Elsa Houtkooper
Mo Colaco
Henry Barker
Lily Bell
Evelyn Spiegel
Liam Healy
Kate Barker
Angelina Purvey
Mariel Goodhart
Editors-In-Chief
Matthew Knauer
Charlotte Lacy
Beckett Tudor
Head Copy Editors
Tallulah Knill Allen
Nadia Massoumi
Emma Rosenberg
Copy Editors
Jamie Glennon
Wyatt Levine
Taylor Allan
Linnea Koblik
Vivi Endler
Ellie Braggs
Kate Harrison
Ellie Smith
Tessa Tuatini
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Leina Khan
Elsa Sherman
Opinion Editors
Brooklyn Saputo
Tessa DeLay
Petra Novotny
Feature Editors
Alana Leifer
Emily Garcia
Nick Hartung
Lifestyles Editors
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Cora Champommier
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Literary Editor
Grace Gehrman
Video Editors
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Games Editors
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Podcast Editor
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Business Managers
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Social Media Managers
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Data Analysts
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Outside Opportunities Managers
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Illustration by Nadia Massoumi
Games Games
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games@redwoodbark.org
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feature feature
feature
feature Resume or real impact: redefining community service
By Evan Luxenberg
By Annie Burlingame and Cora Champommier
Myriad Pro Bold - GO
According to U.S. News and World Reports, Marin is the sixth richest county in the country. With high property values and expensive living costs, the community can often feel like a bubble, ignoring those in need. The culture of high value and disconnect continues with high schoolers in the area as they push toward the highly esteemed schools that have become normalized to attend. Due to this disconnect, teens in Marin often do community service for the purpose of personal motives and resumes rather than genuine morals and desire to gain a better understanding of the broader world that lies outside of Marin’s bubble.
College counselor Stacy Colwell frequently sees the role community service plays in the college application process.
“I feel like a lot of parents really feel like kids can't get into a school if they don't have [community service on their application],” Colwell said. “I think the kids that are involved in [community service] for a passionate reason make much more conscious decisions about where they're going to volunteer and how much time they're going to volunteer, which is more meaningful.”
While community service to many high school students may just be for the credit, Colwell thinks students should look at volunteering from a new perspective, not only to benefit their community but themselves as well.
“If you're doing volunteer service, you really should be doing it, not just to check a box or put certain hours on your application, but for what you can get back from it,” Cowell said.
This sentiment underscores the
group National League of Young Men and knows this first hand.
“I definitely feel that when you're more hands-on, it makes you feel better. It also just feels [like you're] helping and really talking with people. Getting your hands dirty, you feel more proud [of your work],” Weston said.
Weston’s commitment to volunteering with Corte Madera’s REC Inc. Seals Basketball Team, a program for teens and adults with developmental disabilities, highlights the impact of genuine, immersive service. By actively engaging with the players, Weston has gained a full perspective of those living with disabilities.
“I heard some stories [from] people with
different sites, The Cedars of Marin offers volunteer opportunities for students to talk face-to-face with residents and possibly provide a new perspective to those living with disabilities.
“It helps, not just our clients, but people who live in the community to understand and sort of destigmatize the differences between people. People are people, with or without disabilities,” White said.
White, originally graduating from school to be a psychotherapist, got a job at a day program similar to Cedars,’ where she initally discovered her drive to help people. Within the community, she has made bonds with residents and gained stories that she says have changed her as
go to the Ross Valley Fire Department,” White said. “Generations of firefighters know Nancy, and I was talking with the chief who said, ‘You cannot imagine the meaning and lessons that Nancy has taught us at the fire department about being better people.’”
Within the first year of working at The Cedars of Marin, Nancy had told White that she had invited the firefighters to dinner. At first shocked, White then had to ask the resident chef to change the menu, and sure enough at 5 p.m., the firefighters came.
“People who come to volunteer at Cedars who may or may not have had a person in their life who has a
bark@redwoodbark.org
Infographic by Skyla Thomas
Art by Cora Champommier
DEAN TYRONE ROBINSON Jr. helped launch its first Black Student Union, encouraging community building and an inclusivity.
Photo by Emily Block
ENSEMBLE PRODUCTION COMPANY (EPiC) earned a gold medal at the Lenaea High School Theater Festival for their adaptation of “The Farm.”
Photo by Aanika Sawhney
CELEBRATED PI Day with the annual Pi digits reciting competition and pie bake-off.
Article and photo by Ava Stephens
PROM TOOK PLACE at the Oakland Lake Chalet restaurant, offering students many activities and food options throughout the night.
Article and photo by Zoe Gister
THE GIRLS SOFTBALL team took on the girls’ lacrosse team in tug of war at the 2024 end-of-year rally.
Article and photo by Mia Ginsburg THE GRADUATING CLASS of 2024 threw their caps into the air to celebrate their past four years.
Article and photo by Cora Champommier
THE 2024 SUMMER Olympic Games kicked off in Paris, France. The US took home 126 medals in total from their 594 athletes.
Photo courtesy of depositphotos
THE BACK TO School Dance took place in the quad on Aug. 23, welcoming new students to campus.
Article and photo by Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
ALL TAMALPAIS UNION High School District (TUHSD) schools closed for the day due to a threat of violence directed at an unnamed school.
Photo by Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
THE SPIRITED SENIOR homecoming court was presented at the fall rally in front of their friends and peers.
Photo by Penelope Trott AT THE NOVEMBER TUHSD board meeting, many students voiced their opinions on the proposed Yondr phone pouch policy. In the end, no board member made a motion to approve the policy.
Photo by Evan Wang THE VARSITY BOYS’ football team ended their historic season after getting to the North Coast Section (NCS) championship game.
Photo by Matthew Knauer
increase in antisemitic incidents can be traced back to the conflict between Israel and Hamas starting in October of last year. This data amounts to what the Biden administration has called an “alarming rise” in antisemitism, specifically on college campuses. Reports of hate incidents and online forums brimming with personal accounts have turned the once thrilling process of choosing a school into a calculated search for security. For Jewish students, the question of where to go to college is no longer just about opportunity—it’s about protection.
Class of 2025
Hannah Gould is a Jewish senior who takes pride in her identity and looks to continue that as she heads to college.
“I want to go somewhere where I don’t have to hide who I am,” Gould said. Living in Marin her whole life has led Gould to look for schools where she can find a community and find others who have had similar experiences.
“Growing up in Marin, with not many Jews, I definitely am going to want to meet and connect with other people who are like me; that’s why I am applying to schools with large Jewish communities
rethinking certain schools, depending on how they handle acts of antisemitism. UC Berkeley has not handled antisemitism so well. UC Davis has been one of the most antisemitic schools. So I took that off my list,” Gould said.
Senior Sophia Rubel is a Jewish student who said being Jewish plays a significant role in her life. She is searching for schools where she can avoid feeling unsafe or targeted while embracing her identity.
“I don’t want to go to a school where I am going to feel unsafe, so I am looking at a lot of small private liberal arts schools,” Rubel said.
I
President of the Jewish Heritage Club at Redwood, senior Simon Leonard is committed to Panoma Pitzer to play on their basketball team. While choosing where to attend, he was very conscious of the antisemitism that had occurred on their campus.
think a lot of the
problem is that people only get fed one side of the story on social media.
Simon
Leonard, senior
Liberal arts schools are generally found to be the safest for Jewish Students. According to Forward, a Jewish independent nonprofit news site, liberal arts schools like Wellesley College, Amherst College and Hamilton College are in the top 30 least antisemitic schools. Because of the increase of antisemitic
“It was something I talked about with the coaches there, because there was a big incident at Pomona on Oct. 7 this year. There’s definitely antisemitism present on the campus but for me, part of the comfort of going to college is being on a basketball team,” Leonard said. “[Antisemitism] is something I anticipate encountering at some point [at Pomona].”
Leonard believes that the main reason for the surge of antisemitism on college campuses can be accredited to the diffusion of misinformation on social media.
“People always try to relate what’s happening right now to historical events. I think it’s kind of tough to do that just
Parents and Adults
Jamie Gersch is the mother of Redwood senior and Middlebury baseball commit, Sam Gersch. Jamie Gersch said that there were certain schools they steered away from because of anti-jewish sentiment, but Middlebury was not one of them.
“It was nice to see a Hillel on campus and when we were [at Middlebury] they had posters up to join Rosh Hashanah High Holidays events, which made me feel comfortable sending my Jewish son there,” Jamie Gersch said.
Sam Gersch’s grandparents were Holocaust survivors resulting in lots of
Rand senior
“I’ve picked my [college list] based on the presence of antisemitism on their campus [as well as] how strong the Jewish life is. I was going to apply to USD but they lacked a vibrant [Jewish culture] so I decided to not apply. At this point every school I’ve applied to feel very safe and welcoming to [Jewish students].”
Sam Gersch senior
“For recruiting, when I was looking at east coast schools, I tried to stop and avoid the schools where there was a lot of antisemitism, like Colombia. I followed the [university] presidents and what they did to combat [antisemitism] at their schools. It did play a lot into where I wanted to go.”
Eric Mittleman senior
How are Jewish seniors weighing campus security in their college
Madi
the kids because of what’s going on and making sure they have a strong understanding of what’s happening in the world related to how people are feeling in general about Jewish people,” Jamie Gersch said. “The phrase ‘never forget’ exists
While antisemitism is not a new issue, Stewert feels that people have recently been using the ongoing war in Israel as a justification for their antisemitism.
“The bottom line is it’s become okay for people to be antisemitic because people disagree with the politics of the Israeli government,” Stewart said.
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Twitter are the fastest way information is spread, especially among young adults and college students. Social media poses a huge issue because it results in lots of false or out-of-context information being spread.
“I think that a lot of antisemitism originates from social media and one of the reasons it’s become such a big issue on college campuses is because there is a lot of it on TikTok and it echoes through social media in that way,” Stewart said.
“I think that it’s important that we have those conversations and ground the issues in reality as opposed to grounding them in the kind of propaganda on social media. I think when you actually look at the history there’s just a lot of important information that is not gained from a 15-second TikTok video.”
eased once he visited the campus, finding a strong Jewish community and support system.
“Once I got into Cal and started doing more of my own research I realized this would be a place where I would feel safe. When I visited the Hillel with my mom and then met some of the guys in the Jewish fraternities, right away I knew I would be comfortable and not worry about my safety walking to class,” Ladetzky.
Across the country at the University of Syracuse, freshman Jordan Kimball, another Redwood Class of 2024 graduate, has experienced a similarly strong Jewish community.
I want to go somewhere where I don’t have to hide who I am.
Hannah Gould, senior
Jewish people on college campuses is through Greek life. Especially in the Midwest, Jewish students who participate in Greek life have the option to join predominantly Jewish-identifying fraternities and sororities. AEPi and AEPhi are the most prominent Jewish Greek organizations, attracting a large number of Jewish students interested in Greek life. However, these are not exclusively Jewish and often welcome nonJewish members who are supportive of Jewish culture and values.
The unfortunate reality for many parents sending their children to college is having to worry about their safety. Due to colleges lacking the initiative to solve these issues of campus antisemitism on their campuses, parents are left to ask the difficult questions that no one should have helping Jewish students feel safe and feel empowered with their religion on those campuses?’. Making sure that you’re sending your child to a place that is responding to it the right way is important,” Jamie Gersch said.
Class of 2024
Redwood Class of 2024 graduate Gil Ladetzky is a freshman at the University of California Berkeley (Cal), a school that received an xxx grade and left many Jewish students feeling unsafe in the Spring of 2024. As a fervent member of the Jewish community, Ladetzky was nervous about attending the school after getting accepted.
The reality is, antisemitism exists everywhere. The important question is: how is a school helping Jewish students feel safe?
Jamie Gersch, parent
Joe Stewert is a Sustainable Agriculture teacher at Redwood and part of the Jewish community. He also has a daughter who recently graduated from the University of California Los Angeles.
“I have heard all kinds of examples
“[Being Jewish] is such a big part of who I am as a person. So when I initially was searching for colleges and saw the protests going on at Berkeley, I didn’t think this was a place I wanted to be. I heard about Jewish students feeling unsafe in the community and experiencing harsh antisemitism,” Ladetzky said.
However, these initial qualms were
“[Antisemetism] made me reconsider some colleges that I’ve wanted to go to, many prestigious colleges like the Ivies. They’re letting all these protests happen on campus without any punishment.”
college decisions?
“I moved in a few days before other students for an event called FreshFest. It was for Jewish kids to have fun events and build friendships with people in their community,” Kimball said. “Since then I’ve become friends with a lot of those people, and I’ve also attended services and dinners for Jewish holidays. I feel like the community here is so embracing and friendly.”
How to feel safe wherever you go
Many Jewish students around the country have taken advantage of the Hillel centers on university campuses. According to Hillel International, Hillel serves over 180,000 Jewish students. Hillel provides students with a welcoming community, offering programs like Shabbat dinners and cultural events to foster connection. Hillel also serves as an advocate, addressing antisemitism and supporting students in navigating their Jewish identity on campus.
Another way to connect with fellow
Campus protests against the war in Gaza in the Spring of 2024 swept the nation by storm. A media frenzy ensued, violence erupted and Jewish students across the country felt targeted. In response, many looked within the Jewish community to find safety, support and reassurance. Groups like fraternities, Hillels and temples helped Jewish students find their communities. However, the response from universities to said protests was not lost on students; many saw rising antisemitism and factored that into their college decisions. Others looked for schools with strong Jewish populations, hoping to find a strong community to combat this antisemitism. For Jewish seniors or juniors struggling to pick where to attend college next year, you are not alone.
bark@redwoodbark.org
Mittleman
Shop small businesses for the holidays
By Lily Bell Folio
As the holidays come upon us, many look for local shops to buy their loved ones the perfect gift. During a time of work and stress, supporting small businesses is a great way to help your community. Small shops can offer a diverse range of unique gifts to give, and they often rely on holidays like Christmas, Easter and Halloween to bring in customers and revenue.
Brownies Pet Boutique
Brownies Pet Boutique offers a wide array of gifts for your furry friends, such as collars, treats and chew toys. The shop is located behind Perry’s in downtown Larkspur and has a positive vibe with plenty of small knick-knacks for your pet. They have adorable customizable collars and the center table is completely covered with treats and food. However, being on the higher end, it’s rated a 4/5 for having mostly expensive niche items.
Pavilion
Folio, located on Magnolia is a cute store with small gifts such as ornaments, body care, perfume and candles. The workers create a pleasant environment filled with friendly service and great gift suggestions. Though the prices are on the higher end---but not as expensive as other shops---Folio makes a great “nice gift” shop for the holidays. They offer dainty ornaments, wrapping paper, body care and many more items that make the perfect stocking stuffer or gift. Just about anyone can find a gift here, and the price ranges from affordable to highend, therefore making it a perfect 5/5 shop.
Coquelico
Pavilion is a clothing and accessories store that consists of shoes, nice jewelry and numerous articles of tops and bottoms. It’s on the more expensive side, featuring Golden Goose shoes in the store's front window and storemade jewelry. It doesn’t quite offer affordable options, and the style is limited to mostly women. But, the store has a welcoming outside window, displaying the shoes and clothes the store offers.
St. Patrick’s Thrift Shop
St. Patrick’s Thrift Shop has an intense holiday feel, with home decor including dishware, ornaments and other items that would make your home cozier. It makes for a great, affordable gift shop with the addition of friendly staff. It also offers affordable options, but it doesn’t have many varieties for gifts, thus rating it a 4/5.
Right next to Folio, Coquelico, one of the oldest shops in town, has thrived in Larkspur for 27 years. It has small ornaments, jewelry, lights and soap that are great for small gifts, ranging in price from 5 to 10 dollars. They also have decorations like reindeer, mini Christmas trees and snowflakes. However, they lack a young appeal and don’t have as many unique gifts, just your typical items, giving them a 3/5.
Meadowlark Fine Jewelry
Meadowlark, located in Town Center, is the perfect place to get jewelry, clothing and accessories for women and those who love comfy clothes. It offers a range of jewelry: rings, necklaces and bracelets, some having initial pendants which make the perfect customized gift. The clothing line at the store has numerous brands and plenty of loungewear. Meadowlark also has great highend candles and mini crystals for those who like to collect. The store has a light, feminine theme, so most gifts would be subjected to someone who enjoys “girly” gifts, making it not for everyone.
Local shops in Larkspur and Corte Madera are amazing spots for holiday gifts. A variety of pet shops, boutiques and clothing stores give many options when shopping
How to give back this holiday season
By Kate Barker
As the holiday season rolls around, Marin County community members are buttoning up their winter coats and preparing for the most wonderful time of the year. Not only does the holiday season provide the perfect opportunity to sip hot chocolate by the fire and spend precious time with family and friends, but it also presents a chance for people to express their gratitude and generosity by donating or volunteering with a charity. Luckily, Marin has many local charities and non-profit organizations, providing community members ample opportunities to give back this winter. Some charities to join this holiday season include Adopt A Family Marin, SF-Marin Food Drive, Ritter Center and Holiday Outreach and Food Delivery (Jewish Family and Children’s Services).
Adopt A Family Marin
Sign up to be a donor and “adopt” a family! Donors are paired with an anonymous family and provided their holiday wishlist. Donors purchase gifts, wrap them and deliver them to the Adopt A Family office at 35 Mitchell Blvd, Suite 16, in San Rafael, California. This charity asks that donors provide at least three gifts per family member and a local grocery store gift card to brighten families’ holiday seasons. This charity is lots of fun for the whole family and puts everyone in the spirit of giving back!
SF-Marin Food Drive
The SF-Marin Food Bank utilizes volunteers to deliver groceries directly to elderly citizens, families with young children, those with disabilities and pregnant women. Volunteer shifts are posted every second or third Thursday of the month. Volunteer duties typically include putting together grocery bags, organizing produce, repackaging food and sorting through donations at the warehouse. Other volunteer tasks include distributing groceries at the food pantries, maintaining the food inventory on the shop floor and driving a personal vehicle to drop off fresh groceries for participants (drivers must be 18+).
Ritter Center
Provide dignity, kindness and hope for Marin’s most vulnerable groups. The Ritter Center staffs a Food Pantry with volunteers year-round so that community members never go hungry. The Ritter Center asks that all volunteers are over the age of 18 or have a completed consent form signed by their parent or guardian to partake in tasks such as helping clients fill up grocery bags with nutritious food and essential items.
for a loved one. Small businesses offer unique gifts like handmade jewelry, their own clothing lines and holiday decor like ornaments, perfect for making gift-receivers feel special.
lbell@redwoodbark.org
Holiday Outreach and Food Delivery (Jewish Family and Children’s Services)
Seeking a way to spend quality time with family and friends while performing a mitzvah? Assemble festive holiday food bags with loved ones to deliver to seniors, those with disabilities and families facing economic hardship. The Jewish Family and Children’s Services provides a unique opportunity to brighten Rosh Hashanah, Hanukkah or Passover of both those who volunteer and those who receive food bags. Volunteer shifts with this organization are typically two hours long.
Overall, these charities offer many important and meaningful ways to give back this holiday season. Take the opportunity this year to share kindness and brighten the lives and holidays of neighbors and community member members everywhere.
DOG TOYS, HATS for pets and other items on the windowsill of Brownies Pet Boutique.
Photo by Lily Bell
BEAUTIFUL PRESENTS WRAPPED by volunteers lay ready to be delivered to families assisted by Adopt A Family Marin.
IllustrationsbyNatalie Vinogradsky
Photo courtesy of Adopt A Family Marin
ST. PATRICK’S THRIFT shop has a Christmas table, loaded with stockings and other house decor.
Photo by Lily Bell
Photo courtesy of Ritter Center
Classic winter books to turn the page on a new season
By Penelope Trott
As the days get shorter and the year winds to an end, the best way to pass the time while the air is crisp is to curl up with a book. Whether you enjoy familiar classics or are in the mood for an adventurous fantasy, there are many books that will uplift your holiday spirit. I’ve curated a list designed to bring warmth to the cold weather, keeping the plot, characters and pace in mind.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
With multiple movie adaptations and spinoffs, “A Christmas Carol” is a story familiar to many. This book follows Ebenezer Scrooge, an older man who only cares for money, on Christmas Eve. As the evening begins, he receives a visit from the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley, who warns him
about the consequences of greed. As the night continues, Scrooge is visited by three more ghosts: past, present and future, who impart meaningful life lessons. With immersive writing and complex characters, “A Christmas Carol” is the perfect book to prepare for the colder season and inspires the reader to give back to one's community this season.
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren
For those looking for a lighter option, “In a Holidaze” is an enjoyable and popular romance novel. For fans of “Groundhog Day,” this book details the story of Maelyn “Mae” Jones as she is forced to relive the Christmas week over and over. As Mae relives the week, she confronts her past mistakes and makes amends. This book provides an escape from daily life, as the main character goes to live at her family’s cabin in Utah. Cozy and enjoyable, this book is a great way to pass the time.
A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy Set in a small coastal town in Ireland, “A Week in Winter” is a great way to embrace the winter spirit. As the story begins, readers will be swept away by Binchy’s description of the town and characters. The story centers around Chicky Starr, as she attempts to refurbish an old home and turn it into a dream destination. As the book progresses, we learn more about the guest, their relationships and their complex problems. If you are in the mood for a character-driven story about community, or if you are just looking for something that will get you ready for winter, I highly recommend “A Week in Winter.”
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis Fantastical and memorable, “The Lion the Witch, and the Wardrobe” is a mustread to get into the winter mood and to read with family. From the moment the
main characters Peter, Lucy, Edmund and Susan Pevensie step into their wardrobe and arrive in the magical world of Narnia, the reader is transported as well. The story follows the four siblings’ journey in the land of Narnia, as they embark on a quest to save family and friends. The first in a seven-book series, this book is an excellent choice if you are looking to get invested in a gripping series this holiday season.
Whether you want to read a light romance or the classics, one or more of these books is the perfect option to curl up with on a cold, wintery day.
Pressed Freezes: A chilling dessert for the holidays
By Lucy Miller
Pressed Freezes, a non-dairy, vegan alternative to ice cream, have recently become popular due to TikTok. And rightfully so. These Freezes are delicious and allow you to have a healthy, sweet treat. I tried three fan-favorite sundaes at the location in Larkspur Landing and ranked them from best to worst based on flavor.
#1: Chocolate Peppermint Sundae Freeze
Ranking at number one is the Chocolate Peppermint Sundae Freeze. This vegan masterpiece features a chocolate base made from creamy coconut milk, agave syrup and cacao powder. This treat is topped with peppermint candy, chocolate drizzle and fluffy marshmallows. The peppermints give the sundae a nice crunch and pair perfectly with the vegan marshmallows. This was the clear number one because of
WITH
the creamy chocolate base. The chocolate tasted just like a soft serve you would get on a beach boardwalk. This seasonal special is popular, so get it before it sells out!
#2: S'mores Sundae Freeze
Coming in second place was the S'mores Sundae Freeze. If the peppermint one sells out, you will not be disappointed with this option. This Freeze has a silky vanilla base made with almond milk, dates, vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. To make the Freeze truly a s'mores Freeze, it was toppedwith vegan chocolate chips and a creamy drizzle of almond butter that perfectly complimented the chocolate chips. While this one was delicious, it lacked the crunch a s’more should have, putting it in second place. The S'mores Sundae Freeze has the potential to be in first, but for that, I would recommend adding a chocolate chip cookie crumble.
#3: Tropical Sundae Freeze
Coming in third is the Tropical Sundae Freeze. This sweet treat has a creamy and cold tropical protein Freeze base, which is delightful and refreshing. The toppings include fresh mango, strawberries and coconut, making the perfect refreshing combination and transporting me to summer. But, while the base was tangy, the fruit was not ripe, making this end up in last place. However, this Freeze has the opportunity to be better, as getting it during the summertime is best for optimal enjoyment. If you're willing to wait for this treat, it won't disappoint!
ptrott@redwoodbark.org lmiller@redwoodbark.org
FOUR GRAMS of protein, the Chocolate Peppermint Sundae is the perfect healthy sweet treat.
Photo by Julia Delsol
Photo courtesy of Simon and Schuster
Photo courtesy of Goodreads
Photo courtesy of HarperCollins
Photo courtesy of Barnes and Noble
Infographic by Lucy Miller
Bark’s favorite photos from 2024
By Paige Edelen
REVEALING
pedelen@redwoodbark.org Follow our instagram for more
THE INFAMOUS Burn Book to Cady, the “Plastics” hold shocked expressions at the contents of the classic prop.
Photo by Anna Youngs
FORMER STARTING PITCHER and 2024 graduate Rex Solle throws a fastball in the Giants’ game at Oracle Park.
Photo by Aurora Sreba
SENIORS PERFORM A New York-inspired dance number at their last homecoming rally, where they claimed first place over the other classes.
Photo by Penelope Trott
A CLASS OF 2024 graduate films as she walks across the stage, taking a selfie with Dr. Payne. Hundreds of family and friends showed up on June 13th.
Photo by Cora Champommier
GIRLS’ VARSITY VOLLEYBALL gathers during a timeout called in the matchup against Terra Linda. They went on to win 2-0.
Photo by Julia Delsol
OVER THE SAN Francisco Bay, the Blue Angels fly mere feet apart in their worldfamous Delta Wing formation during their Oct. 12 performance.
Photo by Peter Dachtler
SENIOR MUSIC STUDENTS Jack Mckemey and Demo Givas practice “Sandu” by Clifford Brown at Jazz rehearsal.
Photo by Isabelle Davis
SENIOR SAWYER GOLDBERG rises out of the water to take a shot on goal against Marin Academy. He went on to be awarded First Team All-League.
Photo by Graham Weir
español español
Club Latinos Unidos: Colecta de ropa de invierno
El club Latinos Unidos en Redwood High School es más que solo un club; es una comunidad vibrante, inclusiva y solidaria. Este grupo fue fundado con la intención de crear un espacio donde los estudiantes latinos pudieran sentirse representados, valorados y empoderados. La idea surgió durante un retiro de educadores de color que se llevó a cabo la primavera pasada, al cual asistieron Kirk Stevenson y Samuel Chávez, ahora co-asesores del club. En este retiro, ambos identificaron una importante brecha: la ausencia de una plataforma dedicada específicamente a la población latina dentro de la escuela. Inspirados por esta necesidad, decidieron fundar Latinos Unidos para abordar estas carencias y brindar apoyo a una comunidad que hasta entonces carecía de un espacio propio en el campus.
Desde su creación, Latinos Unidos ha trabajado con la misión de proporcionar oportunidades tanto dentro como fuera del campus, al mismo tiempo que fomenta el empoderamiento, la inspiración y el sentido de comunidad entre sus miembros. Además, el club ofrece un “espacio seguro” donde los estudiantes latinos pueden expresarse con libertad, compartir sus experiencias y
sentirse verdaderamente apoyados por sus
la herencia cultural, sino que también
comunidad inclusiva donde se puedan compartir tanto las alegrías como las luchas personales. Latinos Unidos no solo celebra
rodean”. La campaña tiene como meta proporcionar ropa de invierno y otros recursos esenciales a personas desfavorecidas que enfrentan dificultades
Cocinando con Bark: Ensalada de Manzana
Historia:
La ensalada de manzana es un plato muy popular durante la Navidad en México. Originalmente, fue creada en Nueva York en 1823, por el chef Oscar Tschirky, quien buscaba un nuevo plato para el restaurante del Hotel Waldorf Astoria. Así nació la famosa ensalada Waldorf, preparada con manzanas, apio, nueces y uvas, todo combinado con un aderezo de mayonesa.
Cuando México adoptó este platillo, lo transformaron en una versión dulce. En lugar de mayonesa, utilizan crema y leche condensada. También añadieron pacanas, pasas de uva y piña. También añadieron malvaviscos o zanahorias. Este platillo se popularizó en la década de 1940, cuando las manzanas se volvieron más accesibles.
Aunque tradicionalmente es dulce, algunas personas prefieren una versión más salada. La ensalada de manzana puede servirse como postre o como guarnición en una comida festiva.
Ingredientes:
2 manzanas rojas, cortadas en cubos pequeños
2 manzanas verdes, cortadas en cubos pequeños
1 lata (20 oz) de piña en almíbar, cortada en cubos pequeños
1 taza de pacanas, cortados
1 lata de leche condensada
2 latas de media crema o crema espesa
1/2 taza de pasas de uva
1/3 taza de jugo de piñas (de la lata)
Processo:
Tueste las pacanas en un sartén a fuego medio hasta que estén doradas,
aproximadamente 2 a 5 minutos.
Corta las manzanas, las pacanas y las piñas en trozos pequeños. En un gran tazón, mezcla la crema, jugo de piñas de la lata y la leche condensada con un batidor.
Mezcla todo los ingredientes en un gran tazón con una espátula.
Refrigera durante una hora o toda la noche para que los sabores se integren. ¡Sirve y disfruta!
Resultados:
Este platillo es extremadamente fácil de preparar y queda delicioso. Solo necesitas cortar y mezclar los ingredientes, y tendrás lista tu ensalada. La textura es cremosa y crujiente, lo que la hace perfecta como definitivamente lo volveré a hacer como guarnición para una comida festiva o simplemente como un plato delicioso en general.
durante los meses más fríos del año. Este esfuerzo no solo responde a una necesidad inmediata, sino que también está alineado con la misión más amplia de Latinos Unidos de fomentar una conexión profunda entre los estudiantes y su comunidad. A través de actividades como esta, el club busca promover valores como la generosidad, la empatía y el compromiso cívico entre sus miembros. La colecta de ropa representa los primeros pasos de Latinos Unidos hacia la expansión de su impacto más allá del campus escolar, demostrando que incluso pequeñas acciones pueden generar grandes cambios en la vida de los demás.
Mirando hacia el futuro, los miembros de Latinos Unidos están llenos de entusiasmo y aspiraciones. Su visión incluye la organización de más iniciativas que celebren la cultura latina, al mismo tiempo que se contribuye al bienestar general de la comunidad. Con cada proyecto, el club reafirma su propósito de ser un espacio donde los estudiantes puedan encontrar apoyo, inspiración y oportunidades para marcar una diferencia positiva tanto dentro como fuera de la escuela.
ohuneeus@redwoodbark.org
kharrison@redwoodbark.org
Foto por Sara Hernández
LA ENSALADA DE manzana es una plato muy típico por la Navidad en méxico.
Foto por Kate Harrison
Illustruación por Ofelia Huneeus
Por Ofelia Huneeus
Por Kate Harrison
sports sports
Boys’ varsity baseball takes on hot yoga
By Eveyln Spiegel
For the past two months, the boys’ varsity baseball team has been attending 6 a.m. hot yoga classes at Now Power Yoga. Every Monday and Wednesday before school, the team has mandatory sessions; they can also choose to go optionally on Fridays. The idea to take these classes was introduced by head coach Mike Firenzi, who hoped the stretching and mobility involved in classes would benefit the team.
Lower body injuries were an issue for the team last year, as senior Sam Gersch and graduate Rex Solle both were sidelined for a significant time, while many others dealt with more minor injuries. Junior catcher Ethan Ferry believes that the stretching and the techniques learned in hot yoga will help limit injuries this season.
“We had a bunch of hamstring injuries last year, so yoga has taught us ways to prevent that,” Ferry said.
In addition to learning new ways to prevent injuries, the team has also become more efficient in practice. Senior shortstop Lucas Ghio has seen the benefits, as yoga has introduced new stretches as an injury prevention strategy.
“At the start of games or practices,
instead of stretching as a team for twenty minutes, we can do a shortened stretch since we feel loose from the yoga,” Ghio said.
Firenzi initially pushed for the team to begin taking hot yoga classes, however, the team developed a new passion for the practice and began taking classes by choice in addition to mandated ones. Senior Zach
Davis has recognized the increase in enthusiasm towards yoga participation.
“It moved from us [being required to go], to us even wanting to go on our own. [This] is why we do optional days on Fridays [in addition to] the required attendance on Monday and Wednesday mornings. We all really enjoy it,” Davis said.
While Davis emphasizes his love for the practice, he admits that working out in such high temperatures came with a learning curve. After taking classes regularly, he has adapted to the blazing heat and appreciates how it allows him to open up through stretches.
“The first time I went I was shocked by how hot it was. It got to 108 degrees the first time I went. It definitely works at our core and helps mobility. [The instructor] is always working on active hip openers which is helpful because I have really tight hips,” Davis said.
Along with the physical benefits of the practice, the team is spending an extra few hours together weekly, creating a chemistry off the field that transfers over to game times on the diamond.
“By battling through these hard classes early [in the morning], we’ve all gotten closer. That [bond] is another thing that will definitely help throughout the year,” Ghio said.
Ultimately, the team is enjoying attending the 6 a.m. classes together and noticing the variety of benefits. They hope it will translate toward a successful season.
espiegel@redwoodbark.org
The psychology behind athletes’ sport superstitions
By
Former National Basketball Association player Micheal Jordan always wore his Tar Heel light blue North Carolina practice shorts underneath his game shorts. Landon Donovan, former U.S. men’s national soccer team forward, would crouch down and kiss the backs of his hands before every penalty kick he took. These quirky rituals are common across the athletic world, whether on the field, court or track. But why? Sports have been filled with superstitions as long as they have been played. Whether believing in luck or trying to calm pre-game nerves, these habits reveal how players handle the pressure to perform.
The odd actions carried out by athletes before a game are not just for fun but serve
as a form of psychological conditioning. For high school athletes, seemingly strange acts can help calm nerves and destress before and during performance.
According to Health Psychology Research, 91 percent of high school athletes deal with some variation of stress from their sport, with a majority of athletic stress coming from the pressure to do well.
“Young athletes can get stressed when they make a mistake, don’t get the play time they want, or fall short of a metric they are working toward,” an article by Johns Hopkins Medicine read, displaying the long-term effects of falling beneath selfimposed expectations.
Sports psychologist Tom Perrin, quoted in a New York Times article, believes repetition can ease athletes’ emotional demands and mental pressure.
“Routines that allow certain things [to be done] on a mechanistic, repetitive nature help lessen athletes’ fear of failure,” Perrin said in a New York Times article.
For high school athletes, having a habitual action before each game gives them a sense of relaxation before a stressful game or practice. According to careclinics. com, having an individual superstition can serve as a coping mechanism to deal with the unpredictability of certain situations. In sports, every moment is uncertain.
Having superstitious rituals to prepare players for their games is common in high school athletes. Junior Nick Vicente, who has been involved in Redwood’s soccer program since his freshman year, has multiple of his own that he must abide by to avoid negatively impacting his gameplay.
“Before every game, I put on my cleats
and then put my ankle socks on over them,” Vicente said. “I also have to buy the same brand of gear every year.”
Junior co-captain of the girls’ varsity basketball team Brooke Denler also requires her team’s pre-game ritual to ensure success on the court.
“We always have to shoot in the small gym before a game [because] we always think we will play poorly if we don’t do that,” Denler said.
Like Vicente, senior co-captain of the baseball team Sam Gersch has a superstition that revolves around an object. Gersch always holds a lucky penny in his pocket during games, bringing him good luck, and believing that he would play worse without it. The varsity baseball team also likes to walk out in a specific order at games to enhance their chances of winning.
Denler sees most of her habits before games as a way to release nerves. Her team typically screams or runs to let go of the energy that could affect their performance.
“At the end of our warm-ups, we like to do two sprints down the court and I think that we do that to get out our nervousness [for the game],” Denler said.
While every athlete may have unique superstitions, they all stem from the common desire for success in their game.
“The reality is, the effect of [superstitions] is all about belief. As long as you believe, then it matters,” Perrin said.
SENIOR SAM GERSCH stretches alongside his fellow teammates before a big game against Marin Catholic at Oracle Park.
Photo by Graham Weir
JUNIOR NICK VICENTE defends the goal with his signature cleats, a part of the ritual he performs before every game.
Photo courtesy of Nick Vicente
Estelle Smith and Mo Colaco
Meet the winter 2024 captains What
characteristics do you have that help you motivate the team?
By Mason Garbo and Owen McDaniels
- “Hold people accountable on and off the field.”
Hugo
- “Outspoken and motivational.” Masa
- “Leading by example and making sure everyone is on task, doing what they’re supposed to do.”
Photo by Owen McDaniels Soccer
Photo by Owen McDaniels
Photo by Owen McDaniels Basketball
Photo by Owen McDaniels
Photo by Owen McDaniels
Photo by Owen McDaniels
Sam Gersch (left)
Gebhard (middle)
Fujita (right)
Tessa Marshall (left) - “I try to present a welcoming environment for everyone on the team so people can perform their best on and off the field.” Ava Walkeryee (middle) - “Lead by uplifting others even in times of negativity.”
Maya Saibel (second to left) - “I value positivity and good communication, I feel like that makes me a good leader.” Ainsley Gallagher (far right) - “I try to be friendly to everyone, boost them up not tear them down.”
Noah Tanaka (left) - “Pick your teammates up when they’re down.” Brennan Woodley (middle) - “Setting an example, showing them what they have to do on the court so we can be successful as a team.”
Devyn Johnson (left) - “Try to encourage your teammates and be there for them.” Gemma Fox (right) - “Connecting with all the grades, forming bonds with them and creating a community.”
Alexander Berkowitz (left) - “Holding the team accountable, both the younger and older guys.” Hayden Schepps (right) - “Leading by example, making sure we are all on the right track and set for what's ahead of us.”
Fall Sports Recap
By Jake Post
Football:
Making history this year with two North Coast Section (NCS) wins, varsity football completed a comeback after starting the season 3-4. Midseason, they discovered a new identity, winning five straight games en route to the NCS Division Four championship, where they fell short, ending the season 8-5. Seniors Sean Cunneen, Ashlin Quach, Hayden Donehower, Jack Mckemey, and Erik Johnson, along with juniors Ben Vaughn and Dante Davis, made the Redwood Empire Conference All-League.
Girls’ Volleyball:
Girls’ volleyball had yet another strong season finishing with a 27-6 record and 6-2 in league. They closed out the year 21st in California and third place in MCAL. With each of their 27 wins coming with more than a one-set lead, they were nothing short of dominant. They came up just short of an NCS championship birth losing to a strong Foothill team 1-3. MCAL All-League nominees were seniors Neeva Gaine and Ella Moran and sophomores Maddy Wagner and Katie Lazzareschi.
Boys’ Water Polo:
Boys’ water polo made headlines by kicking off their season with a 10-0 record and ending the year with a record of 284. The Giants fell just short of a Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) title, losing to Archie Williams by three, and even shorter of a NorCal Championship, losing to Clovis 9-10. Redwood finished the season ranked 12th in the country and 10th in the state. MCAL All-League nominees were seniors Sawyer Goldberg and Ossie Joplin, junior Owen Malone and sophomore Maddox McClellan.
Girls’ Tennis:
With the Player of the Year Jordan Marotto leading the team, girls’ tennis was able to secure an MCAL championship and fell just short of an NCS title. The team just recently completed their season, placing top ten in the state. Seniors Jordan Marotto, Julia Laury, Gwenn Ricordel, Jennie Liu and Livia Klumpus, sophomore Julia Povio and freshman Alessia Bailliet made the MCAL All-League.
Girls’ Golf:
Winning MCAL back in 2022, girls’ golf was hungry to bring back their title back this year. Powered by five MCAL FirstTeam All-League selections, they were able to do just that. Seniors Taylor Bridges, Katelyn Van Dusen, Chloe Branson and Ainsley Gallagher, junior Katherine Lim, sophomore Mika Ishiguro and freshman Madeline Lim were nominated to AllLeague.
Girls’ Water Polo:
Finishing with a 16-12 record, girls’ water polo floated just above .500 all year. With big wins against rival Marin Catholic and Archie Williams towards the end of the season, Redwood was able to secure fourth place in MCAL and ended ranked 27th in all of California. MCAL AllLeague nominees were senior Anabelle Kilgore, sophomore Aurora DeVilbiss and freshman Samantha Riley.
Cross Country:
The Redwood cross country program battled tough weather to achieve a historic season, highlighted by the girls’ first MCAL championship, a secondplace NCS finish and ninth at state. The boys placed third in MCAL, with top performances from juniors Gabriel Cavanagh and Gunnar Niemi. Several athletes are strong contenders for MCAL All-League honors.
Field Hockey:
Redwood had won MCAL for five consecutive years, and the streak continued again. With a record of 17-6-3, the Giants continued its tear, ending the season winning the MCAL championship. The MCAL All-League was littered with Giants, as seven players qualified, including seniors Maya Saibel, Jane Broderick and Lucy Tonderys, juniors Lucy Jeffers and Nina Baker and sophomores Claire Johnson and Eva Layton.
jpost@redwoodbark.org
Photo by Graham Weir
Photo courtesy of Katelyn Van Dusen
Photo by Henry Barker
Photo by Nadia Massoumi
Photo by Graham Weir
Photo by Cora Champommier
Photo by Julia Delsol
Photo by Elle Wilson
Infographic by Hailey Carlton
Sports Spotlight: Maya Saibel shoots for the stars on and off the court
By Morgan Sicklick
There are always those people who just seem naturally athletic. They are known throughout their schooling to be the most dynamic and versatile players on the court or field. Senior Maya Saibel has always been known to all her peers and prospects as a ‘born to be an athlete’ type of individual. As a two-sport athlete who plays both varsity basketball and field hockey, Saibel delivers nothing less than a stellar performance every time she touches the field or court. Saibel has created a name for herself that is hard to forget through her formidable playing and leadership as a captain.
team, and it's been a lot of fun [throughout high school],” Saibel said.
Even though field hockey isn’t Saibel’s main sport, she still received Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) second-team All-League honors during the 2024 season. She also took her team to the MCAL finals, coming out with a big win against district rival Tamalpais High School.
Saibel began her field hockey career as she approached the start of her freshman year, hoping to make new friends before the big transition into high school.
“I [began playing] just as a way to meet people and have fun. Luckily I made the
As fall sports wrapped up, Saibel reflected on her time on the field.
“I'm unfortunately done with [field hockey].
I don't think I'll be continuing that [after high school]. I still had such an amazing experience on the team and created amazing memories with my teammates,” Saibel said.
During the 2023-24 basketball season, Saibel led her team to victory in the North Coast Section (NCS) division two finals for the first time in school history and received MCAL first-team All-League for her incredible abilities on the court. This is Saibel’s second year as a team captain
for basketball, but her fourth year overall, which comes with a lot of responsibility and commitment to the greatness of herself and her teammates.
“I have a pretty big role [on the team this year] just in terms of communication between my coach and the rest of my team and getting everything organized during practice and games,” Saibel said.
Her leadership skills as captain have taught her more about how to lead others on the team and herself to grow as an individual and team player.
“I just try to cultivate a positive environment where everyone feels confident in what they can do. We have a team filled with variety [this year] with a lot of people that can contribute valuably,” Saibel said.
A teammate and fellow captain, junior Brooke Denler, shares a role with Saibel but finds herself looking up to her, even technically sharing the same position.
“[Saibel] is one of our most vocal leaders on the team, and she is a key part of what holds us together," Denler said.
Having played sports since the day she could walk, Saibel has always been inspired to continue her passion every day.
“My teammates, my parents and the people around me that support me just make me want to be better and just keep
playing. I love the game and I love the people that I'm doing it with,” Saibel said. In hopes of the future, Saibel wants to take her team to the MCAL championships and receive yet another NCS title. After high school, Saibel dreams of playing basketball in college and pursuing those dreams at an academically fit school.
“I think [the college] would have to be the right place for me. Some smaller Division 3 high academic schools in a good area are something that would be of interest to me,” Saibel said.
Working hard both athletically and academically, can sometimes take a toll on people, but not Saibel. Her nonstop dedication to self-and team improvement has paved the way to success. Saibel inspires others to work their hardest, just as she does, and always puts their best foot forward, even when it’s challenging.
“Most sports are mentally and physically hard,” Saibel said. “It’s important to never lose confidence in yourself and what you can do, and if you really love the game, then the skills will come later because of your dedication to getting better.”
msicklick@redwoodbark.org
SENIOR MAYA SAIBEL nailed four three-pointers on Dec. 7, giving the Giants their first win over Marin Catholic since 2020.
Photo courtesy of Douglas Zimmerman
Photo by Julia Delsol
Infographic by Hailey Carlton
lifestyles lifestyles
The National Charity League collaborates with Adopt A Family of Marin
By Mariel Goodhart and Paige Catanese
For 35 years, Adopt A Family of Marin has worked with struggling families to overcome challenges and increase their stability. Whether dealing with an emergency or a lost job, the organization helps lend a hand to families in times of need. As December approaches, Adopt A Family of Marin extends its efforts through its holiday program; they receive wishlists from eligible families and, with the help of donors, ensure every item is gifted.
Executive Director and Redwod parent Jacqueline Jaffee discovered Adopt A Family of Marin through her work with a closely aligned non-profit in the Tiburon School District. After joining the organization, she eventually became the organization’s director.
walking in to pick up their gifts. He couldn’t fathom that a community member or a team of people had done this for him and his family,” Jaffee said.
These donations aren’t limited to toys; many wishlists include fundamental goods that families otherwise would not be able to provide for their kids.
“The biggest things people put on their list are necessities, shoes, clothes, bedding, pots, and pans. And what I’m told time and time again by families is that [the holiday program] is the only way that they can get new clothes or shoes for their kids,” Martinez said.
Adopt A Family of Marin receives 100 percent of its funding from donors, establishing a strong community between contributors and the families they assist.
“I love and am motivated by the idea of working together to support our community. Whether it’s where you live, where you work, where you go to school or where you do your grocery shopping, you are around the families that support the agency and receive services from the agency. You simply can’t have one without the other,” Jaffee said.
The organization also does plenty of work outside the holiday season. Adopt A Family of Marin donates rent and supplies for families year-round and has many programs throughout the year, including Mother’s and Father’s Day giving.
The support of Adopt A Family of Marin in the community doesn’t fall short of high schoolers. Many students volunteer in the summer backpack program, where the organization collects and donates toiletries and household items that are often expensive.
“It feels so personal to buy gifts for someone. It makes you feel good.”
Ashley Ball, Junior
“I started working part-time with Adopt A Family and when you start saying yes to a nonprofit, you will pretty soon end up as their executive director,” Jaffee said.
Over the last three decades, Adopt A Family of Marin has built a large team. Program manager Jasmine Martinez began working with the organization nine years ago. She grew up with six siblings in a low-income household, motivating her to help families like her own.
“I want to help people like myself who grew up with parents who struggled but were also able to make it through. That’s what motivates me: being able to give back to the community and help families succeed,” Martinez said.
The organization works especially hard during the winter through its holiday program, helping transform the season for over 400 struggling families across Marin. Within the program, hundreds of donors help ensure all
“One of the great things about Adopt A Family is it’s very tangible for students to get involved,” Jaffee said.
Junior Ashley Ball has volunteered through the National Charity League, contributing to both the holiday and backpack programs. To Ball, Adopt A Family of Marin is very rewarding, allowing her to help those in the community.
“The impact Adopt A Family has had on me is seeing what a community can come together and do for some families and the impact you can have on them,” Ball said. “When you get a family, you get to read the description in their bio, and it feels so personal to buy gifts for someone. It makes you feel good.”
During the season of giving, Adopt A Family of Marin fosters a community in order to make the season more joyful, even for those who are struggling.
“The most important thing is bringing all the different groups and the community as a whole together and for our families, it just shows them that people care,” Jaffee said.
Spikeball Club
By Wyatt Levine
Every week on Tuesdays and Fridays, a group of students come together for Spikeball Club, where they play their beloved game during lunch. Senior Tug Ricordel is president of the club, which he founded in 2022 after noticing that the school owned Spikeball equipment that was rarely used besides the occasional Lawn Chair Friday celebration.
PRESIDENT TUG RICORDEL, Vice President Liam Martinez, Treasurer Ryan Sun and Secretary Dutch Howard wear their spikeball jerseys.
Photos by Wyatt Levine
“CLUBS USUALLY FOCUS on science or social issues. Here we just goof off, have fun. It’s a space to shut your mind off and play,” Howard said.
SENIORS JACOB PEITZ and Filip Reed work together to return the ball back to their oppenents.
“YOU SERVE THE ball by bouncing it across the net to the other team. [The] other team has to hit it back to the people who served,” Ricordel said.
THE NATIONAL CHARITY League hosts gift-wrapping parties to assemble the presents they bought for Adopt A Family of Marin.
Photo Courtesy of The National Charity League
ADOPT A FAMILY of Marin’s backpack program is a way to supply necessities to those who need them.
Photo Courtesy of Adopt A Family of Marin
Asian American Pacific Islander Club unites students
By Vivi Endler
Every other Thursday during lunch, the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) club gathers in room 225 to lead students in deep diving into learning about different cultures. The club, run by juniors Sophie Kim, Kyra Mahal, Julia Gianni, Saki Beattie and Sabina Leung, was created to spark community at school for AAPI students.
Co-president Mahal notes the inspiration and importance of the club’s creation.
“We noticed that there was a large lack of community within the Asian [population] at Redwood. Redwood is a
primarily white school, so having a place where people of color, specifically Asian people of color, can come to bond is definitely something that I think is crucial,” Mahal said.
At each meeting, the AAPI club brings traditional food according to the country they are studying during the meeting. Before the presentation begins, every club member has an opportunity to try some of the cultural food brought in, courtesy of the club leaders. Then, the club leaders present a slideshow about the country. The slides consist of an informative overview of the country including its geography, fun facts specific to its origin, how to say certain words in the country’s native language, all followed by a film from that country.
CLUB LEADERS
SABINA Leung, Sophie Kim, Kyra Mahal, Saki Beattie and Julia Gianni gather in front of the class to present the week’s slideshow about Korea.
Junior club member Eily Diener joined the club through peer influence, before finding her own personal connection.
“I first joined this club because a lot of my friends were doing it. But then I learned more about the club and I realized it was an Asian, American and Pacific Islander club. My family has some Pacific Islander roots, so I thought it would be cool to learn more about that,” Diener said.
Though the club was created to unify students of Asian descent, they welcome any student, no matter their race or ethnicity. For junior Tobias Foster, the environment that the AAPI club created drew him into joining the club.
“My favorite part about this club is the friendly, social aspect. It’s very welcoming and it’s a good time,” Foster said.
The AAPI club continues to inspire students to educate themselves on different heritages or even their own. For Diener, it motivated her to learn about her ancestry.
“This club teaches me a lot about different Asian ethnicities and countries and I’d say it really inspires me to get more in touch with my heritage and to explore more of my family history,” Diener said.
Over time, the club’s community is continuing to improve and expand. Currently, the AAPI club is planning an event to commemorate the Lunar New Year along with other schools in the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD).
“Right now, we are planning a Lunar New Year event with all the other AAPI clubs at Tam, Archie and Terra Linda. That’s something we definitely see in our future, is expanding our communal outreach,” Mahal said.
The AAPI club welcomes all in room 225 every other Thursday. For more information, follow their Instagram @ redwood.aapi to stay posted on their upcoming meetings and events.
wvendler@redwoodbark.org
Alumni make waves revolutionizing wetsuits with FERAL
By Morgan Sicklick
Since the 1990s, the surfing community in Marin County has grown by the day. Two of those ‘90s surfers, Buzz Bonneau and Alex Salz, turned their childhood hobbies into a profession, creating a direct-to-consumer wetsuit company called FERAL. The business offers high-quality, affordable wetsuits and a welcoming, loyal environment for customers. Their success has not gone unnoticed, as the selfmade brand has been featured in Vogue Magazine and the Marin Independent Journal.
Long before taking the wetsuit industry by storm, they attended Redwood, where Salz graduated in 1998 and Bonneau in 1999. The
also was a part of the water polo and swim teams.
Current math teacher Allison Kristal was in the same graduating class as Bonneau and spent a lot of her time with him due to similar schedules.
Throughout high school, Bonneau and Kristal shared interests in honors math classes and Latin which allowed them to connect in deeper ways.
“I see [Buzz] at every reunion, or when he comes back to do Alumni Speaker Day. That’s always really nice to reconnect and hear about our families and who it is from high school that we keep in contact with,” Kristal said.
It’s an important part of the story that you don’t have to know everybody or be famous to start a successful brand.
Buzz Bonneau
Following high school and before starting FERAL, Bonneau attended Stanford University and worked in the field of medical robotics. For about a decade, Bonneau created and worked for his own medical device company, before selling it. After the sale, Bonneau and Salz used the directto consumer business idea that had yet to be introduced to the wetsuit market.
Prior to their innovation, products were sold through a network of wholesalers, distributors and retailers. The new business model was a successful idea at the time because it allowed owners to skip the middlemen and eliminate the need to join forces with big retail brands.
“[Salz] questioned if we should just make a better wetsuit and sell it directly to consumers. We had a lot of very bad ideas when it came to the wetsuit industry, but this one seemed like it was going to actually stick,”
Bonneau and Salz, using their experience as surfers, examined different types of wetsuits based on their warmth, quality, price and popularity.
“Wetsuits that we used to wear kept us warm, but they were also $700 and we just knew that [that model] was never going to be successful,” Bonneau said. “They’re too expensive and there’s too much other tech on top of the wetsuit that doesn’t do anything.”
Finally coming to a set design after testing the qualities of different wetsuits and deciding what was necessary or not, Bonneau and Salz created a brand so successful that they were recognized by market leaders who were creating the best wetsuits at the time.
“We made Volcom-type suits and to us, that felt amazing because it was a major brand even while we were
We made all their suits, they sold some of them and they gave them to all their team riders, which was the first time that professional-level surfers were wearing our suits.
That was the first step towards becoming a real company,” Bonneau said.
Bonneau and Salz find authenticity to be an important quality of a well-run business because of the comfortability it creates for its customers and employees.
“We just want to keep it small, keep it us and keep it authentic,” Bonneau said. “I think the most rewarding part of this business is the amount of recurring customers we have. A huge number of our orders are from people who’ve ordered around five suits in the past.”
The FERAL dream team started as a grassroots business and became one of the highest-quality and affordable wetsuit brands on the market. FERAL placed top five on the market in North America according to Stab Magazine’s yearly wetsuit survey. Salz and Bonneau have created nothing but the best for all of their customers, no matter their experience within the sport.
“It’s an important part of the story that you don’t have to know everybody or be famous to start a successful brand,” Bonneau said. “Just follow your passion and you will never look back.”
Photo by Penelope Trott
UNDER A BRIGHT blue sky, Alex Salz rides a perfect wave, blending style and skill as co-founder of FERAL Wetsuits.
Photo courtesy of Will Adler
CO-FOUNDER BUZZ Bonneau dives under a wave in the two millimeter spring suit that FERAL has to offer.
Photo courtesy of Nick Liotta
Tyler Florence cooks up inspiration
By Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
World-renowned chef and Food Network Host Tyler Florence has made his mark on the culinary world with six restaurants, 16 cookbooks and 28 years on Food Network, all while raising two Redwood students.
Florence was born in Greenville, South Carolina and graduated from Johnson and Wales University in 1991 with a degree in Culinary Arts. He then went to business school and earned his degree in business and entrepreneurship.
“The first time I tasted a filet mignon wrapped up in bacon, I knew this was what I wanted to do. Food has always been a big part of my life. I just love it,” Florence said.
He credits his incredible career to a crucial risk he took when he was younger. In 1995, recently out of college, Florence was hired as the executive chef at Cibo in New York.
“I decided to go to New York, and I moved there without much money, with just a job, but I knew it was exactly where I wanted to be. I can't imagine if I'd never made that big and scary [of a] leap,” Florence said.
opened his first restaurant, Wayfare Tavern, in San Francisco under the Transamerica Tower. With his years of experience, Florence knows what makes a
restaurant stand out.
“Ambience; [the restaurant] needs to tell a story. The service must be thoughtful, caring and giving, as if we genuinely want you to have a great time,” Florence said. “Of course, the third thing's got to be the food. I think all three of them are equawlly important, specifically coming from a chef's perspective.”
One of Florence’s restaurants, Miller & Lux, was recently named Best Steakhouse in the Bay Area for the second year in a row, according to the San Francisco Magazine. Florence’s son, Hayden, began his journey of being a chef when he started working at the restaurant when he was 13 and is currently 16.
“Once I started working in restaurants, I just decided I liked it. I love the pace of it. It's like one big machine. Everyone is working together and helping each other out,” Hayden Florence said. “[My dad] has so much knowledge he has passed down to me.
I became really good at cooking [at a] fast rate because I started working at restaurants with barely any prior experience. I just learned by doing and being in the environment.”
Tyler Florence finds sentimental value in watching his son become so passionate about cooking.
“He loves cooking. He loves sharpening his knife skills. He loves developing the flavors. He loves to experiment, and it's just nice to see him really enthusiastic about appearing on 20 shows throughout the channel. As a young chef in New York City in 1996, a woman on Food Network walked into the restaurant he was working at and handed Tyler Florence her business card. And with that, he began his television career as one of nine chefs on the new network.
“She wanted to know if I wanted to have a slot, and I said yes and just jumped in. The rest is kind of history,” Tyler Florence said.
He has big aspirations for the future, including continuing his career and advancing life opportunities.
“My goal is to just have more adventures and open up great restaurants in cool cities and fall in love with the food over and over again,” Tyler Florence said.
Photo courtesy of Jason Perry