December 2023

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Photos by Mayson Weingart Cover by Ava Stephens & Lauren Olsen

Volume LXVII, No. 3 December 12, 2023 • Larkspur, CA

Meet the captains! pg. 19

12 Feature

21 Sports

23 Lifestyles

Birth Control awareness

Check out the MCAL All-League

Teacher Crossword

Fall 2023 Roster/Positions Redwood High School 395 Doherty Drive, Larkspur, CA 94939 www.redwoodbark.org

Editors-in-Chief: Colette Boyden Kate DeForrest Jordan Kimball Matthew Marotto Staff Illustrators: Lauren Olsen Ava Stephens Business Managers: Gil Ladetzky Sam Sumski Multimedia Designers: Julia Delsol Hayden Donehower Data Analyst: Gabriella Rouas Social Media Managers: Cameryn Smith Emma Rosenberg Podcast Editor: Ella Buske Staff Photographers: Lauren Poulin Harrison Lapic Spanish Editors: Alana Leifer Emily Garcia

Copy Editors: Ella Erwig (Head Copy) Maya Winger (Head Copy) Taylor Allan Alex Argov Charlotte Fishburne Mia Ginsburg Lili Hakimi Hannah Herbst Nina Howard Tallulah Knill Allen Nadia Massoumi Larkin Moffett Ashlin Quach Bella Wagner Reporters: Elakai Anela Ava Carlson Sean Cunneen Zachary Dinowitz Molly Gallagher Mason Garbo Matthew Knauer Jay Knopping Linnea Koblik Owen McDaniels Bowen Rivera Michael Seton Tyler Sofnas Henrik Vraanes Maggie Walsh

Opinion Editors: Sawyer Barta Nick Hartung Feature Editors: Emily Block Erica Block Lifestyles Editors: Kate Harrison Aanika Sawhney Sports Editors: Charlotte Lacy Mayson Weingart Sports Editor-on-Call: Sydney Johnson News Editors: Leina Khan Lucy Wong News Editor-on-Call: Elsa Block Review Editors: Tessa Delay Beckett Tudor Web Designers: Emily Hitchcock Anna Youngs Video Editor: Will Parsons

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Editorial teaser

Read The Bark’s reflections on the “Stop-and-Learn” lesson.

Volume LXVII, No. 3 • December 12, 2023 • Larkspur, CA

Regardless of a perfect Stop-and-Learn or other district strategies, students are not taking enough individual responsibility for racist acts or passive ignorance. At a certain point, we can no longer point fingers at the district and we must look inward.

Continue reading on p. 7.

redwood high school ● 395 doherty dr., larkspur, ca 94939 ● follow @theredwoodbark on socials● www.redwoodbark.org

Freshman and sophomore election results revealed Story and Photos by Tessa Marshall

Photo by Nadia Massoumi

JUNIOR ANNA KRUMWIEDE listens attentively to her peers as they respond to prompts on the impact of hate speech brought up by their teacher, Mr. Hettleman.

New ‘Stop-and-Learn’ initiative addresses racial concerns head on

By Emily Garcia and Nadia Massoumi

where casual racism at Redwood originated and what they could do if they heard a peer using it.

To increase engagement, the presentation featured a On Nov. 29, Redwood conducted a “Stop-and-Learn” wide variety of activities for students to partake in. The following various racist incidents in the Tamalpais activities included a “read-pair-share” on the brief history Union High School District (TUHSD). These racial of the N-word by the Anti-Defamation League, and a concerns are best understood in the context of a video video entitled, “White and Wondering Why You Can’t showing a Tamalpais High School (Tam) student saying Say the N-Word,” for students to watch and respond the N-word while other students laugh. The video spread to. Junior Skylar Bramlette found the discussions to quickly amongst students and be the most effective part of the staff, prompting a school walkout, presentation and also attributed organized by the presidents of the part of the effective conversation Black Student Union (BSU) at Everyone is at different to her science teacher, Amy Tam. Mastromonaco. levels of learning about An email sent to students “I definitely think that the most and parents on Nov. 7 from race and identity, effective part [of the presentation] superintendent Tara Taupier and that creates a big was the class discussions. My class initially responded to the incident, was pretty talkative and there were though many felt more needed to problem when you’re an never any awkward silences. Ms. be done. This resulted in members adolescent.

Mastromonaco made the room of the community appearing at a as comfortable as it could be,” TUHSD board meeting on Nov. Angela Carter Bramlette said.

14 to express their concerns and Black Student Union Advisor The teachers were trained on opinions. Speakers like Angela how to teach the material prior to Carter, the BSU adviser, communicated to the Board the event, as English teacher Steve Hettleman recounted. what they wanted to see happen regarding district anti“We had a department meeting [the week before the racist education.

“Stop-and-Learn”], where a draft of the lesson plan was “Everyone coming to Tam or Redwood is shared with us. We were given the slide deck about at different levels of learning about race and three weeks ago to prepare and I spent half an identity, and that creates a big problem hour the day before going through how I when you’re an adolescent. [Antiwanted to do it,” Hettleman said. racist education] needs to start back in The teachers concluded the kindergarten and the parent community presentation by passing out the district’s needs to be engaged with it and not Zero Tolerance Policy on racist acts for fight against it,” Carter said. students to study further on their own.

The “Stop-and-Learn” was The reactions to the policy were overall previously decided on by the Board, positive, including for Spanish teacher following similar presentations regarding Maria Civano. fentanyl and suicide. It was intended to be “It’s a first step and students make a valid implemented in all the schools in the TUHSD point in terms of communication with the district before the end of the fall semester. The presentation [about] what there should be in the future,” Civano said. began with guiding questions and classroom agreements, “I think we can continue learning this work.” which encouraged respect in the classroom and in class discussions. Students then responded to prompts designed to unpack the power of words, honing in on the bark@redwoodbark.com intent of words versus the impact. Students were asked

On Friday, Nov. 31, at exactly 8:00 a.m., the 2023 freshman and sophomore election results were announced. The rush to gain votes between various campaigners began at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 28 when voting first opened.

Candidates created social media accounts and filled the hallways with colorful posters and flyers, prompting their peers to elect them into leadership positions. On their social media accounts, candidates packed their profiles with photos and videos Freshman class president along with various links Adriella Marcus to make voting easy and accessible. In addition, many students running for office personally approached their peers, encouraging a more active participation in the voting process.

Leaders of the student body ran for the president, vice president, secretary and treasurer positions.

Shortly after the voting closed at midnight on Thursday, Nov. 30, winners were announced on the following Friday. For the freshman class, Adriella Marcus was elected president, while Everett Fredericks won the chair for vice president, despite the heavy competition of three other qualified candidates. Both running unopposed, Sabine Khan won secretary for the same class, and Beckett LeClaire was elected treasurer.

Marcus, explains Sophomore class president why she is a good fit for Hayden Schepps such a high leadership position.

“I am a hard working person in general, whether it’s sports or school. I always put 100 percent in,” Marcus said.

Marcus shared her excitement for the new ideas she plans on incorporating in Leadership this school year, for instance creating committees to ensure high productivity during their meetings.

In the sophomore election results, incumbent Hayden Schepps was re-elected president unopposed. Madison Bishop won vice president and Renatta Lionetti secured her position as treasurer. Callie Mock, who thrives off her organizational skills and passion for Leadership, was elected secretary unopposed.

“I love being involved [with the school] and I love being being behind the scenes in certain events. I am a very involved and organized person, which being behind is essential for a secretary who provides structure the scenes. to [the] meetings,” Mock Callie Mock sophomore said.

Mock’s initial appeal to leadership branches all the way back to her experience at Del Mar Middle School, where she learned the importance of quality leaders. She hopes to positively impact Redwood’s student body and to take advantage of this opportunity in power.

“I want to keep making money for our school and creating a fun community for the school,” Mock said. tmarshall@redwoodbark.org

bark Page 2 • News

PHOTO SURVEY

December 12, 2023

TUHSD Board vs. smartphones: Officials consider banning cell phones

Teacher Edition

What advice do you have for students during finals?

D AV I D P L E S C I A SOCIAL STUDIES “Your grade going into Thanksgiving is the grade you want at the end of the semester. So just be consistent and believe in yourself.”

A M Y M A S T R O M O N A CO BIOLOGY “Get a good night’s sleep before the exams. Also, it’s best if you study in an environment that looks as similar to your testing environment.”

MARK SUMMARY CHEMISTRY “Do not eat the whole apple in one bite. So take what you know then you build. You are not going to get the nutrition all at once.”

D I A N E WA I T E ENGLISH “Try to mitigate the stress. One thing I do is google images of baby animals, which helps me have something soft and fuzzy in my life versus hard and challenging things.”

Photo Illustration by Robert Lapic

STUDENTS FOCUSING ON their cell phones during class time slows down the progress of instruction, a major concern for the TUHSD Board. every teacher collecting phones during Board will make further decisions on cell

By Michael Seton class. This approach reportedly led to phone usage in schools once they review The Tamalpais Union High School reduced cell phone use in the classroom, the results of the recent survey.

District (TUHSD) Board is considering a significant drop in hallway traffic and “We don’t allow smoking on campus revisions to its cell phone policies at added material to lesson plans due to because we know it’s unsafe,” said Board district high schools, such as Redwood, increased instructional efficiency. trustee Emily Uhlhorn. “Why wouldn’t our and conducted a recent cell phone survey However, not all attendees at the Board approach be to ban — or more severely to obtain student, faculty and parent meeting agreed a full ban was the optimal limit -– cell phone use?” feedback. Recent research presented solution. One student in the audience The survey results are expected to be

by TUHSD superintendent Dr. Tara indicated that phone caddies or jails would made public Dec. 12.

Taupier at the Sep. 5 board meeting be a better way to prevent phone use, suggests that the adverse effects of explaining that an outright ban could be social media disproportionately impact circumvented by students. Senior Nicolas girls and individuals suffering from Biscotto also felt a full ban would be hard loneliness, isolation or depression. to comply with.

“We are committed to disrupting the “That would be very rough to handle,” mseton@redwoodbark.org negative impacts of cell phone use on Biscotto said. “We’re in an students,” Taupier said. era where we’re very The district currently requires phone dependent. We students to shut off their cell phones can’t be deprived of our during instructional time, but this rule is phone because many people depend upon it enforced at the discretion of individual throughout the day.” teachers. Some teachers require students to deposit their phones in phone caddies

at the beginning of class, and others Educational allow students to keep their phones so Services Assistant long as they remain in the classroom.

Superintendent Kelly San Andreas High School goes a step Lara acknowledged further, prohibiting any cell phone the importance of usage during class time altogether. involving students in During the recent TUHSD meeting, the decision-making The Board asked the district to consider process regarding cell banning all cell phones during class for phone usage. at least one to two days per week. This “We are is an increasingly common trend across engaging our students the country. According to federal data, in having a voice, by 2020, 77 percent of public schools utilizing their agency nationwide prohibited non-academic and talking to us about cell phone use during school hours. cell phone usage and San Mateo High School takes a how it comes into the stricter approach, locking students’ classroom,” said Lara. phones in Yondr pouches for the “We have some work entire school day. Yondr pouches to do with our students, store individual cell phones securely families and teachers to and can be unlocked with a circular better understand how magnet. Assistant Principal Adam Gelb it’s impacting them and believes this practice enhances student then to also set limits.” participation.

As part of the “I really think it’s about being Board’s commitment present and engaging [with] the adult to educating students trying to teach you, [or] your peers that about the impact of might be in your small group. That’s mobile technology, part of the main philosophy we’re trying digital citizenship social to preach,” Gelb said. emotional lessons by TUHSD Board member and Common Sense Media Alameda High School teacher will be implemented in Infographic by Julia Delsol Cynthia Roenisch shared Alameda every grade in district High School’s policy, which involves schools this year. The

Page 3 • News

www.redwoodbark.org

$517 million school funding bond for 2024 ballot

bark

TUHSD Board looks to upgrade facilities on all five campuses

By Michael Seton During the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD) board meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 14, trustees unanimously approved the inclusion of a new $517 million school funding measure on the March 2024 presidential primary election ballot. With a 4-0 vote in favor, trustee Kevin Saavedra was not present at the meeting.

Based on the district’s median property value of $1.1 million, the proposed bond would result in an additional $330 in annual property taxes. A recent survey conducted by Godbe Research indicated that approximately 60 percent of local voters support the measure, exceeding the 55 percent threshold required for passage.

The bond came about as the result of an extensive years-long facilities planning process, culminating in a Facilities Master Plan (FMP). Finalized in April 2022, the FMP prioritizes repairs and improvements to upgrade aging classrooms, labs, buildings and infrastructure across the district’s five 25 to 100-year-old campuses.

While most participants from the public expressed positive views on the bond, four attendees opposed the measure.

One concern raised was the timing of the bond issuance with interest rates at the highest level in 15 years. This observation was countered by district Assistant Superintendent for Business Operations Corbett Elsen who highlighted the potential for future refinancing.

“We anticipate there could be opportunities in the future to refinance these bonds to lower the amount for taxpayers like we’ve done in the past,” Elsen said. “We’ve refunded our past bonds four times and saved taxpayers $24 million.”

Elsen estimates about $175 in taxes will drop off the median homeowner’s bill

Photo by Robert Lapic

STUDENTS WALK BETWEEN plastic barriers that are put in place to manage the lunchtime cafeteria crowds. The Redwood CEA is planned to undergo significant changes as part of the TUHSD Facilities Master Plan. in the next 2 to 5 years as a result of these refinancings, partially offsetting the cost of this new bond.

A second objection was the cost of Redwood’s new covered eating area (CEA).

Some parents commented that a new CEA is a niceto-have luxury rather than a necessity.

Mimi Willard, president of the Coalition of Sensible TaxpayersMarin, complained it would be one of the largest expenditures of the FMP – at $104 million – even though it was not one of the top priorities.

Addressing these objections, Elsen explained the need for an updated space due to the 250 percent increase in student participation in California’s universal meal plan. Elsen noted many students go to Redwood’s CEA for meals yet there is no place for them to eat.

“Our CEA has gone from an eating area to a queuing line,” Elsen said. “There is no space inside the cafeteria whatsoever [for students] to sit together and enjoy their meals.”

Redwood student trustee Kiera Lensing supported Elsen’s observation.

“There is no place to eat lunch inside [at Redwood]. When it rains, you have to sit in the gym on the floor or on the hallway floor,” Lensing said.

Elsen justified the need for a new CEA by also highlighting the impracticality and costliness of renovating the outdated kitchen, food preparation, and refrigeration facilities.

“The best thing to do is to build a new kitchen and to replace the CEA with a

student commons – a source of gathering,” Elsen said.

Another objection focused on the bond’s size. Although the issued amount will be $517 million, critics including Willard argued the total cost over its life would exceed $1 billion. One board member disagreed, comparing it to a home mortgage.

“When you take out a $1 million mortgage on your house, it’s not described to you as a $2 million mortgage,” said the trustee. “This bond works the same way -it is a $517 million bond.”

Despite objections, the majority of meeting participants praised the bond for its potential to address fundamental issues, including uncomfortable classrooms, insufficient sports facilities, decrepit buildings and lack of common areas for students. The bond will appear on the March 5, 2024 ballot.

that of Justice Clarence Thomas. Thomas came under fire for accepting gifts from business executives and GOP donors, for being married to a right-wing activist present at the Jan. 6 Capitol Riots and for untruthfully reporting his taxable income.

Justice Samuel Alito also received criticism

for similarly lavish behaviors, including an unreported trip with a hedge fund billionaire and allegations of sharing a case ruling early in 2014. Until this new code’s publication, the Supreme Court operated as the only court in the United States without any code of conduct. The code itself is a

15-page document containing five major rules, or canons, for the court to operate on. Canon 3 and 4 make up the bulk of the writing, covering the broad topics of how to maintain impartiality and regulation of extrajudicial activities. Each of the five canons has been summarized below.

SCOTUS publishes first Code of Conduct

By Ava Carlson and Ava Stephens On Nov. 13 the Supreme Court publicized a new code of ethics written by and for its justices. The court recently experienced scrutiny for scandals namely

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December 12, 2023 bark Page 4 • News Debriefing San Francisco’s post-APEC outlook

By Lucy Wong Barricades line freshly laundered streets and protesters prepare for international spectators, while the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit unfolds a week of global cooperation against the backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge. From Nov. 11 to 17, San Francisco hosted APEC, with the theme of “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All,” at the Moscone Center in the heart of downtown. The event drew international leaders from its 21 member nations and garneraed over 20,000 attendees.

APEC is a regional economic forum for diplomats to converse about world problems and solutions with the aim of creating “greater prosperity for the people of the region by promoting balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative and secure growth and by accelerating regional economic integration,” according to APEC’s official website.

Senior official for APEC, Matt Murray, addressed his thoughts on what sets APEC apart from other global summits.

“APEC is consensus based… so it’s a place where we can also get together as economies across the region, to share ideas with each other, to share best practices, and to really focus on the ‘C’ APEC, which is cooperation.”

Every year, one of the 21 APEC member economies hosts the conference.

San Francisco’s hosting of this year’s event proved noteworthy for locals and city officials in promoting tourism and economic prosperity. Alongside international diplomats, business officials from companies such as OpenAI and Google attended the conference to further conversations.

When addressing concerns over closed roads and commotion due to the summit in

Photo by Lucy Wong

TO PROMOTE SAN Francisco’s uniqueness, the convention center structured a sculpture spelling out “Shine on SF,” decorated with notes made by locals on what they love about the city. a press conference, San Francisco Mayor on common problems. Protests varied from before the event.

London Breed shared the benefits and marches demanding action on climate “We’re cleaning up this state!” concerns of hosting APEC for the city. change, independence for Tibet or a cease- California Governor Gavin Newsom “It is going to be a very challenging fire in Gaza. The relocation of the homeless said during the unveiling of a street tree time,” Breed said. “But the reward for this and cleaned streets for the conference, a nursery in San Francisco. “I know folks is San Francisco on the global stage, and problem locals have previously pushed are saying, ‘Oh they’re just cleaning up others get to see what we know already as the city to address, therefore prompted the this place because all those fancy leaders residents of this city — how amazing and question: ​​ will streets remain clean even are coming to town.’ That’s true because how special it is.” after APEC? it’s true, but it’s also true for months and Weeks after the summit concluded, While many locals are still skeptical months and months prior to APEC we’ve San Francisco and Bay Area locals are of the city staying clean post-APEC, been having conversations.” still discussing the aftermath of the event Mayor Breed and California Governor by addressing overdue tensions. The Gavin Newsom announced a state-wide conference brought upon protests, calling beautification project through the planting for local and world leaders to take action of 125,000 plus street trees on Nov. 9, days lwong@redwoodbark.org

Local, national and global climate developments

By Isabella Wagner Local: El Niño year for California and Marin The years 2023 and 2024 bring another round of El Niño and its weather implications for California and the other affected regions. El Niño is a natural phenomenon in which the Pacific trade winds – constant steady winds that blow east to west across the Pacific Ocean

– switch from their normal direction and instead head east along the equator, reducing the upwelling of cold water on the coast of the Americas and resulting in warmer water temperatures. For California, this frequently translates to rainfall and stormy weather impacting areas including Marin. However, this is not always the case, as some El Niño years don’t follow this norm and end up with a drought season. This year, most

Photo by Isabella Wagner

DRENCHING THE GROUND, Marin’s first rain for the 2023-2024 winter season falls on November 18, 2023 at Bon Air Shopping Center.

forecasters, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, predict a very wet winter and spring. Regardless, water managers are looking to be prepared for any circumstance.

National: Corn and airplanes, a rare combination Air transportation significantly contributes to our warming climate. In 2021, the Biden administration came to a consensus with numerous airlines on a goal of substituting jet fuel with sustainable energy sources by 2050. This initiative has brought up discussion about the potential use of corn-based fuels to power planes. No, not full husks of corn ready to be brought to the dinner table. Instead, airlines would use corn to produce ethanol. Biofuels such as ethanol already exist to some extent in jet fuel, but airlines are considering increasing their usage. This year, United Airlines agreed to buy enough ethanol to fuel 50,000 flights a year, and other airlines are looking to do the same. A shift in this eco-friendly direction would be beneficial in decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, with the Environmental Protection Agency approximating that corn ethanol produces 20 percent less emissions than gasoline.

However, as much as this “solution” seems to be golden, there are other factors that need to be considered. One major concern is the impact that increased corn production would have on water resources.

The process of growing corn uses up a large amount of water and groundwater is already diminishing in many areas because of agricultural usage. Climate change causes more intense droughts and the water used in irrigation further exacerbates this issue. This situation is just another example of the compromises our

country must decide on when dealing with environmental issues.

Global: Iceland or lavaland?

Not to be confused with Greenland, Iceland is widely known for its unique natural features encompassing waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches and more recently, its volcanic activity. On Nov. 10, the people of Grindavik, Iceland were evacuated from their homes after signs of a volcanic eruption. Earthquakes had been occurring repeatedly, and an underground stream of magma was detected underneath the fishing town heading towards the ocean, leading officials to believe an eruption was possible and ordering the 3,000 individuals to leave. While an eruption on land would cause more harm to the town, magma erupting beneath the sea is more explosive than erupting on land, which dispenses further danger.

Currently, the fault line that runs through Grindavik hasn’t caused major damage to structures; however, roads have been impaired and the sewage system has been impaired. Toxic fumes are another distresser as sulfur dioxide can lead to respiratory issues.

Although the uncertainty is concerning, there were fewer reported earthquakes towards the end of the month which gives scientists some confidence. For an additional safety precaution, two threemile-long walls that reach 25 feet high are currently being built by the Icelandic government to redirect any magma if it happens to reach the surface.

In the meantime, the outcome remains uncertain which means the citizens of Iceland must stay ready for anything. iwagner@redwoodbark.org

opinion

Page 5

The importance Oppressor vs. oppressed narrative dismisses raging antisemitism of sex ed

By Beckett Tudor

The overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022 led to 21 states banning, or majorly restricting, access to safe and legal abortions. Some states criminalized doctors performing the surgeries, while others limited the time frame that allowed a woman to make the decision to complete surgery or medical therapeutics. For many women, this prevented abortion access altogether, as they did not even know they were pregnant before the allowed six weeks was over. California was not one of those states. California continues to allow abortion access, and many programs exist across the state aiding pregnant women who are planning to get an abortion. However, California’s access to these resources does not guarantee a protected future for all those who graduate from Redwood. Many students may decide to live in other states for college or move out of California altogether. Whatever the reason, students at Redwood should be better educated on how to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

Redwood, like many other high schools, has a mandated sexual education program. These lessons are taught to students their freshman year, in social issues class, where topics range from how to properly utilize birth control to the importance of consent. These lectures are mandated by the California Healthy Youth Act, which details that students in grades seven to 12 must receive “comprehensive” sexual and health education.

However, despite the fact that sex education in Social Issues is quite infamous amongst Redwood students, it is far from comprehensive. Regardless of the serious nature of the topics discussed in class, students often find themselves in an environment that is casual and often comedic. Many students do not pay attention to the lessons at all, knowing that social issues is an “easy A” and believing that what they are learning is unimportant. However, this is precisely what leads to unwanted pregnancies and ignorance surrounding the topic. This nonchalant attitude stems from the lack of contextualization that the Redwood sexual education program provides. Students are thrown into a classroom with no background knowledge of a subject that is bound to make them uncomfortable or bored, naturally creating debauchery and crass jokes instead of an attentive learning environment.

The problems with Redwood’s sexual education do not stop at students’ inability to pay attention. Like with any other subject, sex education is forgotten with time, and a lack of reinforcement to the education that students receive leads many to forget their learning altogether.

Because a significant portion of the graduating class has no sexual experience by the end of high school, for many Redwood students, their only practice with sex education came from a phallic piece of wood in their freshman class four years prior.

Redwood must keep its sex education consistent throughout all four years of high school. Obviously, students do not need to receive another full semester of classes, like in Social Issues, but should be taught lessons bi-annually in SMART. A Stop-and-Learn format would work perfectly for this type of lesson, as SMART teachers would provide an environment for students to learn without judgment. Lesson plans could be designed by the social issues department and facilitated by the SMART teachers, who would directly ask students for feedback and ensure confidentiality. Other than boredom, one of the main reasons that students hardly learn from their Social Issues classes is the fear of being judged for asking questions. By providing a safe and confidential environment, SMART teachers could allow these lesson plans to be informative, but more importantly, engaging and interesting for students.

For now, access to healthcare in California has not been directly affected by the overturning of Roe v. Wade. However, this does not mean that Redwood students should be denied the access to continuous and comprehensive sex education that they will need to navigate the real world.

Illustration by Ava Stephens

btudor@redwoodbark.org

Cuddy and her colleagues found a relationship between global stability and envious prejudice. If society From the moment the first rocket was fired by Hamas is perceived to be in a place of security, groups that are from the Gaza Strip into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, everyone stereotyped in the competent and cold category are looked rushed to pick a side, scrambling to social media to post upon agreeably. However, when the security of a society Israeli flags in solidarity or express support for Hamas or becomes strained, people begin to look for scapegoats.

Palestinian freedom. As news of the attacks spread online, This redirection of blame can spark envious prejudice social media grew increasingly polarized. Even though as high-status minorities, like Jews, suddenly become hundreds of Israeli civilians were taken held responsible for the disruption in into captivity, women were raped and stability. tortured and babies were beheaded, Because of this stereotyping, some still declared support for Hamas, society finds it difficult to view Jews as a terrorist group that has controlled the victims, thus leading to the dismissal Gaza Strip since 2007. Jewish people of rampant antisemitism. Progressives all over the world were stunned by are often very quick to show support the severity of these attacks, but many for other minorities, whether it is non-Jews fell silent, failing to speak people of color or the LGBTQ+ out against the atrocities Hamas had community, but antisemitism is committed. frequently overlooked. By simply being Anti-Defamation League When we examine conflict, we Jewish, one relinquishes any right to often resort to the oppressor versus expressions of empathy or solidarity oppressed mindset, viewing situations because society has repeatedly labeled as black and white: one side as the victim and the other Jews and, by extension Israel, as oppressors. as the perpetrator. Following this logic, violence against Some may argue that oppressed people are not a group deemed the oppressor is justified because of the in a position to commit truly immoral acts and their perception that the oppressed can do no wrong; their oppression grants them freedom from responsibility. oppressor is the “bad guy” and therefore is deserving of However, this black-and-white thinking completely any brutality that comes their way. Through this mindset, disregards the nuances of the current conflict between actions are not morally evaluated based on the actual act Israel and Palestine, as well as centuries of antisemitism. but rather on whether or not it was the oppressor or the As written in an article by Remi Adekoya, a lecturer in oppressed who committed the act. Some people believed politics and international relations and former political Hamas was not at fault for attacking Israel because in journalist, “Our moral outrage at injustice, not to mention the relationship between Israel and Palestine, many have violence, should not be conditional on the ethno-racial deemed Israel the oppressor. category of the perpetrators.”

In the modern world, attacks against Jews are often Violence against Jews should be condemned as overlooked even though Jews have historically been strongly as violence against Palestinians, not dismissed oppressed, from biblical times to the Holocaust. In because of predisposed prejudices about Jews and where the United States alone there has been a 388 percent they stand in society. Adekoya relates acceptance of increase in antisemitism since Oct. 7, according to the violent acts committed by one side to Oscar Wilde’s quote Anti-Defamation League. Dr. Amy Cuddy, a social on morality being “Simply an attitude we adopt towards psychologist and reporter for the New York Times, calls people we dislike.” By placing labels that ultimately the psychological component behind antisemitism declare one side to be the oppressor and the other to “envious prejudice.” Generally, unlike other minorities, be oppressed, we severely limit our ability to recognize Jews are not viewed as underprivileged or marginalized, humanity and feel compassion for groups experiencing they are often viewed as the opposite — wealthy and white. violence, leaving us with a polarized worldview.

Because many progressive activists believe discrimination is inherently linked to class, a group must be economically lhakimi@redwoodbark.org or socially disadvantaged to fit into this construct according to David Baddiel, author of “Jews Don’t Count?”

Cuddy’s findings also indicate that groups are not stereotyped based on good or bad, but rather their “warmth” and “comp etence.”

Those who are warm are trustworthy and amiable, whereas those who are cold lack those qu a l it i e s .

Jews have b e e n labeled as cold and comp etent, a high-status minority group viewed as a competitor — a potential danger — and even more so in times of hardship, according to Cuddy.

By Lili Hakimi

There has been a 388 percent increase in antisemitism since Oct. 7....

Illustration by Lauren Olsen

www.redwoodbark.org bark Page 6 • Opinion Anti-racism lesson sparks debate bark Students urged to take initiative

editorial

If you permit it, you promote it.

POLICY: All editorials are unsigned and have been approved by the majority of The Bark staff.

On Nov. 29, students participated in a school-wide district-mandated lesson Stop-and-Learn to address instances of casual racism that occur frequently on district campuses. This seminar was preceded by an incident at Tamalpais High School in which a video circulated of a few students repeatedly using the N-word in a joking manner. The district faced significant backlash for not addressing the incident in a timely or adequate manner, both through a walkout and an impassioned board meeting.

The lesson began with a promise to institute more lessons on “other forms of racism, discrimination and bias throughout the year” and a discussion centered around the power of words. While the lesson was informative for its allotted time, the impact of district efforts to combat casual racism on campus can only go so far. It’s not solely up to administrators to stop casual racism in our community. Rather, it is the foremost responsibility of students to take these lessons seriously and enact change in our communities.

Regardless of a perfect Stop-andLearn or other district strategies, students are not taking enough individual responsibility for racist acts or passive ignorance. At a certain point, we can no longer point fingers at the district and we, the students, must look inward.

Casual racism as defined by the email sent by school admin is “a form of subtle or indirect racism that typically involves making stereotypical comments or jokes about a particular race or ethnicity.” This can come in the form of microaggressions; verbal or behavioral actions that convey derogatory views toward marginalized groups, whether intentionally or not. Based on the input of many student-run classes, such as the Bark, Peer Resource and the Student-led Antiracist Movement (SLAM), the administration crafted an interactive and conversational lesson plan. The district also shared a new list of subsequent consequences for specific use of the N-word, as per student input.

For some students, the information in the Stopand-Learn might have felt obvious. Some teachers and students even showed annoyance and insincerity at the fact that daily schedules and class time were disrupted.

While some students had positive experiences, according to an email sent out by Principal Barnaby Payne reflecting on the seminar, many students felt dissatisfied.

“I learned absolutely nothing. Everyone has known all of this information since 3rd grade. If we are going to use an hour of our educational time, it should be used with new and compelling criteria,” one anonymous student responded.

While the instructional information may seem straightforward to many, our actions are failing to reflect our understanding. So yes, much of this information may have been heard before, but it is still vital because our past and ongoing behavior shows a clear failure in

A BARK to the holiday spirit.

Let’s put away the resting Grinch face.

A BITE to the time shift. We might just sNAP. A BARK to “Rizz” being named Oxford’s 2023 word of the year. Sorry “Swifties.”

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.

A BITE to tests during quiet week. Teachers seem to think district guidlines are multiple choice.

understanding and taking ownership of wrongdoing.

One reason for this is that many students currently aren’t interested or simply don’t care enough. The district is putting faith into its student body, a student body that has consistently failed to respond to such lessons.

Because our student body is almost 70 percent white, there is an inherent culture of permissiveness when it comes to addressing racism on campus. Many may wonder why it’s necessary to show concern over a topic that doesn’t directly affect their life. But, in truth, the impact of this permissiveness extends to everyone. These are our friends and peers that we are causing harm to, and taking the time to learn basic respect is the least we can do. The longer allow these microaggressions to continue, the longer we reinforce a culture of racism and discrimination. The district has given us the tools to understand the tangible human impacts of racism and the responsibility now rests with us to take a stance against casual racism and call out questionable behavior among our peers.

It is vital that students take the lessons from the seminar and actively implement them in our school community and beyond. While the school board and staff can play a role in our education, it is ultimately the students’ responsibility to foster a safe and inclusive environment.

When something offensive is said, we can ask for clarification and appeal to the person’s values: “Hey that didn’t sound like you, what did you mean by that?” or “I’m going to stop you there and encourage you to think about what you just said.” If you hear a racist comment or see a racist action, it is not enough to just remain passive, even if it may seem awkward or uncomfortable. This short-term discomfort is not comparable to the societal and psychological damage these comments would otherwise cause. It is our hope that we continue to do these types of training with extra emphasis on specific ways to disrupt racism so students feel empowered to apply their knowledge and enact change.

Moving forward, let’s strive to not only understand and educate but also genuinely care about racism and its impacts: Addressing casual racism begins with taking ownership of past actions and acknowledging our present and future responsibility.

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 the Purdyniners.

Jalen didn’t Hurt our record.

A BITE to George Santos’s Botox. At least his lips serve when he no longer can.

A BARK to Saltburn’s cast.

Jacob Oh-my-Lordi!

A BITE to getting 10 texts about this new shopping app. We’re about to FLIP out deciding who to give our “free money” to.

A BARK to holiday lights.

Our only (light) source of happiness during finals.

A BITE to Mariah Carey defrosting. All we want for Christmas is to not hear that song again.

A PEPPERMINT BARK to winter treats. We can’t contain my exciteMINT. A BITE to winter sickness.

Finals aren’t the only things giving us the sniffles.

Redwood High School 395 Doherty Drive Larkspur, CA 94939 www.redwoodbark.org Editors-In-Chief Colette Boyden Kate DeForrest Jordan Kimball Matthew Marotto Head Copy Editors Ella Erwig Maya Winger Copy Editors Taylor Allan Alex Argov Charlotte Fishburne Mia Ginsburg Lili Hakimi Hannah Herbst Nina Howard Tallulah Knill Allen Nadia Massoumi Larkin Moffett Ashlin Quach Isabella Wagner Opinion Editors Sawyer Barta Nick Hartung Feature Editors Emily Block Erica Block Lifestyles Editors Kate Harrison Aanika Sawhney

Sports Editors Charlotte Lacy Mayson Weingart Sports Editor-on-Call Sydney Johnson News Editors Leina Khan Lucy Wong News Editor-on-Call Elsa Block Review Editors Tessa DeLay Beckett Tudor Video Editor Will Parsons Spanish Editors Emily Garcia Alana Leifer Podcast Editor Ella Buske Business Managers Gil Ladetzky Sam Sumski Social Media Managers Cameryn Smith Emma Rosenberg Data Analyst Gabriella Rouas Web Designers Emily Hitchcock Anna Youngs Staff Illustrators Lauren Olsen Ava Stephens Multimedia Designer Julia Delsol Hayden Donehower Staff Photographers Lauren Poulin Harrison Lapic Reporters Elakai Anela Ava Carlson Sean Cunneen Zachary Dinowitz Molly Gallagher Mason Garbo Matthew Knauer Jay Knopping Linnea Koblik Owen McDaniels Bowen Rivera Michael Seton Tyler Sofnas Henrik Vraanes Maggie Walsh Adviser Erin Schneider

bark An underdiagnosed epidemic of men’s mental health Page 7 • Opinion

www.redwoodbark.org

By Grace Gehrman I’ve never seen my father cry, and only rarely have I seen my brothers. In part, one could blame this on anatomical differences; men tend to have larger tear ducts that are less conducive to the welling of tears. But the real reason my household, among so many others, witnesses such infrequent displays of male emotional expression can be attributed to the deep-rooted societal stigma around male mental health.

Despite more than 6 million men experiencing depression annually, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, there are blockades of taboo and stigma preventing men from seeking support, and Redwood is no exception.

Spencer DeWoody, current Wellness coordinator and former contract therapist for Bay Area community resources (BACR), acknowledges that he sees more female and genderqueer students in the wellness center than male. DeWoody argues that this is not due to the male population facing fewer problems but points to the barriers that men, specifically young men, face in expressing them.

“I think it goes back to this notion that [men are] not allowed to show weakness or vulnerability. And so, when [men are] taught that we [can’t be vulnerable], we think that accessing help somehow shows weakness,” DeWoody said.

Similarly, Michael C. Reichert, director of the Center for the Study of Boys and Girls at the University of Pennsylvania, elaborates on the detriments of the same philosophy being instilled in young boys.

“Boys’ human development has been compromised by the boyhood that we have built and managed for them for generations,” Reichert said in an interview with the Washington Post.

The long-term impact of this ‘boyhood’ is the difficulty for men in accessing help and mental health care, as DeWoody points out.

“The message you get [as a boy] is that when you fall down, you can’t cry [because] that shows [the] vulnerability that you have as a human. And so, from a young age, [men are] not taught to express [hurt or pain] amongst our peers, family or close friends,” DeWoody said.

Twenty-nine percent of men feel ‘too embarrassed’ to speak about their mental health, according to Priory, an independent provider of mental health care in the United Kingdom. Of the men surveyed, 40 percent reported never opening up to anyone about their mental health, despite 77 percent of them reporting common mental health symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Additionally, Richard V. Reeves, author of “Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It,” says that we might even be underestimating the number of males in our society who are struggling.

“There is some evidence that we might be underdetecting depression in men due to the questions we ask,” Reeves said.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, boys and men experiencing depression are more likely to

express it through anger, irritability, fatigue, loss of interest and aggression. However, most surveys only record common symptoms of female depression, rarely taking into account common male symptoms. For example, the Healthy Kids’ survey conducted at Redwood only asks participants if they have experienced ‘hopelessness’ or ‘sadness,’ which are both common female symptoms of depression.

This discrepancy is skewing the numbers on male mental health simply because surveys — and people — are not asking the right questions.

Moreover, DeWoody hypothesized that the expressions of anger and frustration from men might stem from an inability to communicate feelings of sadness or depression.

“I think [men] don’t always know how to express [their] feelings because we don’t know how to verbalize the emotions that we’re feeling. And oftentimes, these [feelings] manifest in other ways, like anger or frustration.

So [it] might look differently for a man or a boy who has sadness or depression [than a woman],” DeWoody said.

This gap in communication has fatal impacts. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, nearly four times as many men die by suicide than women.

“Parents need to know that being male is the biggest risk factor for suicide,” Reeves said. “The chances of your son taking his life by suicide are about four times higher than your daughter.”

Nearly four times as many men die by suicide than women American Foundation for Suicide Prevention There’s no clear-cut cure for this. But there is a gap in understanding that society needs to address. In America, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the group of individuals most at risk for suicide is men over the age of seventy-five – the same demographic that popularized the phrase “be a man.”

There is an irrevocable link between society’s emphasis on men being strong and our culture’s inability to recognize and validate men’s mental health.

DeWoody said that one of the best ways to fight this is candor. He vouches for abstaining from what he calls the three responses to if someone asks how you’re doing: fine, good and okay. “[We need to get] more comfortable societally about speaking about our emotions and how we’re actually doing. That’s why if a student were to ask me how I’m doing on any given day, I like to model [that honesty],” DeWoody said.

Starting with transparency, there is a necessary societal shift in how we view mental health. Mental illness and suffering are not unique to any singular demographic, sex, culture or person; we all have the capacity to struggle. What needs to change is how we view and talk about mental health. The “be a man” mentality, lack of transparency and culture surrounding how mental health is expressed and perceived are having fatal repercussions that impact us all.

If you or a loved one are struggling, you can reach the California mental health hotline at 988 and access free and confidential support. ggehrman@redwoodbark.org

Illustration By Lauren Olsen

December 12, 2023 bark Page 8 • Opinion Online courses might cost more than just money

By Charlotte Lacy A casual chat sent me tumbling into a whirlwind of emotions. A brief five-minute conversation left me feeling inadequate, as though my efforts were meaningless. In reality, I was putting in plenty of effort. Measuring my progress against others shouldn’t leave me feeling this way.

Comparing myself with my classmates overshadowed my accomplishments. This peer confided in me that she was simply dropping our class and opting for online learning to get a better grade. Grades are challenging, but students with a high B should stay in a class even if they feel they need an A. To address these situations, a policy that prevents Redwood students from switching from in-person to online classes is a necessary solution. This measure would create a more equitable academic environment, discouraging grade-driven decisions that compromise the integrity of the learning experience.

Since the pandemic, online classes have become more common. However, the trend towards online learning hurts a critical group of high school students — those who aren’t performing well in their courses on campus.

Today, students not doing well in their in-person classes often resort to taking the course online to get a higher letter grade on their transcript.

However, the shift to an online course comes with its challenges. Enrolling in a course without a teacher demands high self-motivation and

organizational skills. Some students may need help with these skills, especially when revisiting previously learned topics.

A study by the Journal of Research on Educational Effectiveness in Chicago investigated the efficacy of credit recovery courses. The study took students who had failed Algebra and randomly assigned them to an in-person or online recovery program. They learned that students who took the online courses performed less proficiently on the Algebra post-test than those taught in person.

Students typically believe they can score better in online courses because they have full access to the internet. Rather than learning independently, individuals frequently rely on ChatGPT. Artificial intelligence is becoming a prominent force in education, yet the prevailing viewpoint is that it should solely guide students without overshadowing the essential learning process. According to the National Library of Medicine, sixty percent of students admitted to cheating on online learning all the time and an additional thirty percent acknowledged cheating at least once during an online exam.

Additionally, online classes can be costly, meaning not everybody has the same access. How is it fair for one student to take the course online because they aren’t doing well, while another wants to do the same but can’t afford it? High School of America says a typical online program can cost $500 to $5000. This financial barrier exacerbates educational inequalities and raises questions about the fairness of access to online learning opportunities.

Often, at Redwood, students want to take online courses simply because they don’t have space in their schedule during the school day. According to the December Bark survey, fifty percent of Redwood students have taken an

online course to fill a course requirement or credit. We have seven regular periods and 0 and 8th periods for Leadership and Redwood TV classes. Many students opt for online versions of courses like Spanish to make room for different electives, allowing them to take courses they are more passionate about in person. This is true; however, in-person courses are required for a reason.

Core classes such as English, math, history and science are required because the skills you learn in these courses are the building blocks for your future educational endeavors. Direct interaction with teachers and peers in a physical classroom setting fosters deeper discussions, collaborative learning and immediate feedback that might be challenging to replicate online.

Additionally, certain subjects, especially those involving practical skills or lab work, necessitate in-person instruction to fully grasp complex concepts or techniques effectively.

While the accessibility and flexibility of online learning offer advantages, its unchecked adoption raises concerns about equity, academic integrity and the quality of education.

Implementing measures to balance online and in-person learning, considering student needs and educational efficacy, is crucial to fostering a fair educational environment for all learners at Redwood High School. clacy@redwoodbark.org

Illustration by Lauren Olsen

Rethinking time: The case for permanent daylight saving Illustration by Lauren Olsen

By Nick Hartung Let’s face it — no one wants the sun glaring into their window at 7 a.m. on a weekend, and no one wants to rely on loud, blinding light during a 5 p.m. sports practice outside. Daylight saving time is a bummer and so is standard time, transitioning from the exhilarating freedom and joy of a bright summer afternoon to frustratingly dark fall evenings overnight. The change between standard and daylight saving time must be removed, and replaced by permanent daylight saving time that offers extended daylight hours year-round.

Since daylight saving time (DST) was introduced during World War I to conserve energy, its use has been an extensively debated topic. Farmers, for example, are against its use as they have to work through darkness in the mornings. Despite this, after its use in both World War I and II, it became a national law under the Uniform Time Act of 1966.

Daylight saving has many benefits, including decreasing crime rates, preserving energy and saving lives from traffic injuries, as more individuals drive during daylight hours. The problem with our current system is the yearly change back to standard time, from the first Sunday in November to the second Sunday in March. Not only is standard time itself not optimal for our society,

but the change itself is very dangerous and has countless harmful effects.

Adam Spira, Ph.D., MA, is a sleep expert and professor at Johns Hopkins in the Department of Mental Health.

“The consequences of [changing the clocks] include decreases in cardiovascular health, increases in diabetes and obesity, poorer mental health, lower cognitive performance and an increase in the risk of motor vehicle accidents,” Spira said.

A 2020 study by the University of Colorado Boulder, found that the switch raises the risk of fatal traffic accidents by 6 percent. Meanwhile, other studies by the National Institute of Health have found that DST contributes to

improved road safety by reducing pedestrian fatalities by 13 percent during dawn and dusk hours.

Not only would permanent DST be safer, but it would also make school an improved learning environment. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that during school days after the time change, students were sleepier, had slower reaction times and were less attentive.

Adopting permanent DST time would promote better physical and emotional health. As DST may also counteract the sedentary lifestyle of modern living by encouraging more socialization and outdoor recreation with additional daylight.

As a student, I’ve experienced firsthand how the time change impacts my productivity and well-being, affecting both my mental focus and physical health due to disruptions in sleep patterns. Let’s put an end to the darker evenings and embrace brighter days instead.

Join the 39 states who have proposed legislation to make DST permanent, and the 210,000 people on Change.org, by signing the petition via the QR code. nhartung@redwoodbark.org

español

Pagína 9

Bloom ayuda a crear oportunidades para necesitados Por Kate Harrison

Situado en San Rafael, Bloom Marin, un programa de YWCA Golden Gate Silicon Valley, ofrece ropa completamente gratis para hombres, mujeres y niños de bajos ingresos. Bloom trabaja con un grupo diverso de organismos gubernamentales y sin fines de lucro, como instituciones educativas y centros de acogida para víctimas de violencia doméstica.

Emily Elder, la coordinadora del programa, trabaja duro ofreciendo ropa para cualquier ocasión que lo requiera.

“Ofrecemos mudas completas para el trabajo, la escuela, la casa y mucho más. No necesitas una entrevista o un trabajo para solicitar consultas.

Originalmente, Bloom se llamaba “Image for Success” (Traducción: Imagen para el éxito) y fue fundada por la congresista de Oakland Barbara Lee en 1999. La organización se creó para ofrecer un programa de asistencia social y ropa a

las mujeres necesitadas de Marin. Image for Success colaboró con Cal Matters y Homeward Bound of Marin para poner en marcha su iniciativa. Con el paso de los años, la organización se amplió para incluir un programa para niños y después para familias. La apertura de su primera tienda al por menor ocurrió en 2007 en San Rafael. En 2016, Image of Success se convirtió en Bloom. Más de 18 mil clientes han sido atendidos.

Los clientes vienen de 66 organizaciones locales de Marín que trabajan Foto por Bloom Marin

mancomunadamente con Bloom, incluyendo Canal Alliance, Adopt A Family y St. Vincent de Paul.

Bloom ofrece todo tipo de atuendos, incluyendo, pantalones, camisas, vestidos, accesorios como carteras y zapatos.

“La ropa que ofrecemos es más o menos 14 o 15 piezas por cliente, lo cual es suficiente para dos semanas. En la tienda contamos con un programa de ayuda para obtener ropa interior, medias y zapatos. Ofrecemos ropa a toda la familia, niños y adultos,” dijo Elder.

Abierto entre las 11 de la mañana y las de la tarde, de martes a sábado, Bloom ayuda a vestir a muchos clientes necesitados, gracias a las donaciones constantes de dinero y ropa.

“Dependemos de esas donaciones en dinero y en mercadería.

También necesitamos más voluntarios, especialmente hispanohablantes, porque los empleados son muy pocos, ” dijo Elder.

Si quieres ayudar o si tienes necesidad de artículos de vestuario, pásate por Bloom para conseguir lo que necesites.

Infografia por Julia Delsol

calificaciones de Las mejores películas de terror españolas en Netflix

kharrison@redwoodbark.org

Las mejores películas de terror españolas en Netflix Por Larkin Moffett y Anna Youngs

Infiesto:

Netflix tiene una sección de películas de habla hispana muy grande. specialmente las películas de terror que se pueden ver con amigos y familia.

“Infiesto” La película, “Infiesto” se trata de dos detectives que van a una ciudad en las montañas en Asturias, una región en España. La región de España tiene un pueblo que se llama “Infiesto” y es un pueblo minero abandonado. Una mujer joven apareció después que todas las personas en su pueblo pensaban que estaba muerta. El director, Patxi Amezcua es famoso por otras películas como 25 Carat, El Cinco de Piso y La Ciudad de las Pistolas.

Los actores principales en Infiesto son Isak Férriz, Iria del Río y Antonio Buíl. En esta película, un grupo de criminales secuestran a muchos niños durante la pandemia del coronavirus. Los detectives, Castro y García, tratan de buscar a los criminales en todos los lugares que los niños podrían estar. Aunque el uso del coronavirus fue una parte importante en la trama, fue un poco aburrido y nada nuevo. En general, “Infiesto” es una buena película de terror y deberías verla si te gusta esta modalidad del cine.

83% El conde:

82% perdida:

31% Infografia por Julia Delsol

“El Conde” “El Conde” es una película de fantasía sobre Augusto Pinochet. Al inicio de la película, Pinochet es un vampiro que se hace llamar Claude hasta que llega a Chile en 1935. Comienza con alguien que trata

de matarlo al darse cuenta de que él es un vampiro. Aunque la película es única, contiene demasiada fantasía para mi gusto.

Una buena cosa sobre esta película es el uso del color. La oscuridad te hace sentir más las emociones. La cinematografía de “El Conde” es muy buena e impresionante.

En general, si te gustan las películas con el ejército, historia, vampiros, y terror, deberías ver “El Conde.”

“Perdida” “Perdida” es una película de 2018 dirigida por Alejandro Montiel, quien es un periodista argentino. Los actores principales son Luisiana Lopilato, Amaia Salamanca, Carlos Alcántara y Pedro Casablanc. La película está situada en la Patagonia argentina y sigue a una mujer en su intento de descubrir quién secuestró a su mejor amiga. Luego, en este camino, ella se entera de que está perdida y necesita navegar las dificultades y las luchas para sobrevivir. La trama de la película fue muy interesante y fácil de seguir. El film tenía una buena estructura y la mejor parte , con una resolución satisfactoria. Algunos aspectos negativos es que algunas partes de la trama no tienen mucho sentido porque había errores con la exactitud de las situaciones en que se encontraron.

También el personaje principal a veces carecía de emoción, pero en general, los actores hicieron un buen trabajo.

Finalmente, la mejor película española en Netflix es “Infiesto” por el grado de terror, y el reparto. bark@redwoodbark.org

bark Page 10 • Español Cocinando para los vacaciones con Bark Por Mia Ginsburg, Lili Hakimi y Charlotte Fishburne

Historia El arroz con leche llegó a España durante la expansión del Islam en la Edad Media. Durante el siglo VIII, los musulmanes, llamados “los Moros”, ocuparon la Península Ibérica, y trajeron no sólo su religión, sino también su comida. Aunque los moros fueron expulsados, quedaron aspectos de su cultura, incluyendo el arroz con leche.

Después el plato llegó a Sudamérica y desde entonces sigue siendo un alimento básico navideño.

Aspectos Culturales El arroz con leche es un plato muy versátil que se puede servir básicamente en cualquier momento. Puede ser frío o caliente, como desayuno o postre y se sirve todo el año. Para nuestros paladares poco conocedores, el arroz con leche sabe a horchata, rica y cremosa. Los ingredientes son similares pero aún así fue sorprendente la similaridad en el sabor. Tradicionalmente, canela, pasas, vainilla o limón se agrega para darle sabor. Para muchos, el arroz con leche les recuerda a su familia porque es hogareño.

Proceso Pon el agua, el arroz y las ramas de canela en una olla grande y pon el fuego a temperatura media. Déjalo ahí por aproximadamente 18 minutos. Luego, deshazte del líquido, retira las ramas de canela y agrega las leches. Baja el fuego y déjalo cocer otros 20 minutos. Vigílalo y revuelve suavemente, si no la leche se quemará. Finalmente espolvoreamos la canela por encima.

December 12, 2023

Receta 7 tazas de agua 1 taza de arroz blanco de grano largo 2 ramas de canela 1 lata (14 onzas) de leche condensada azucarada 1 lata (12 onzas) de leche evaporada 1 taza de leche entera Un poco de canela molida para cubrir

Resultados El arroz con leche es delicioso. Servido caliente, es como una nube suave que calienta todo el cuerpo. Es dulce, rico y cremoso. El arroz es liso y celestial y sabe como las vacaciones. Es perfecto para el invierno. Si necesitas ir a una fiesta de Navidad, este postre es perfecto para llevar.

Sin embargo, ten cuidado si eres sensible a los lácteos.

Foto cortesîa por Mia Ginsburg

SERVIDO CALIENTE, EL arroz con leche es una excelente manera de relajarse.

Foto cortesía por Mia Ginsberg

Escanea este código QR para visitar esta receta.

bark@redwoodbark.org

Foto cortesía por Mia Ginsburg

VERTER LA LECHE condensada es parte esencial de la receta.

Una mirada a las tradiciones latinoamericanas Por Nadia Massoumi y Emily Garcia

Se acercan los meses de invierno y los estudiantes se emocionan por las vacaciones. Todos tenemos recuerdos hermosos que asociamos con la estación navideña que nos hace felices. Para los estudiantes hispanos y latinos, las vacaciones de invierno son muy especiales porque es un tiempo de pasar con familia y demostrar su amor.

Uruguay Uruguay está en el hemisferio sur, lo que significa que sus vacaciones son durante el verano en vez del invierno.

Pero el clima no cambia la importancia de la familia. En Uruguay, el clima cálido lleva a las familias a la playa en Navidad. Juegan juegos en la playa y hacen parrilladas (barbacoa). Pero, para los uruguayos que viven en Marin, la Navidad se celebra un poco diferente.

Cuando los españoles llegaron a Uruguay muchas tradiciones se perdieron por el asesinato de los indígenas en el país y se establecieron las costumbres de los colonizadores como la Navidad. Pero eso no impidió que se formaran nuevas tradiciones y hacerlas diferentes. Maria Fernanda Civano, una profesora de español en Redwood creció en la República Oriental del Uruguay y habla sobre sus tradiciones.

“Para mi, Papá Noel (Santa) era un gordito con el traje rojo y siempre me pareció que tenía mucho calor porque es verano.

Nuestra tradición era juntarse con la familia, comer comida y después a las doce salir todos a la calle a saludar a todos los vecinos, ver los fuegos artificiales que todos encendíamos en el medio de la calle y

cuando regresábamos adentro los regalos estaban en casa,” Civano dijo.

Otra fiesta importante para Civano que también es celebrada en otros países es la de los Tres Reyes Magos. Durante esta fiesta, los Tres Reyes Magos vienen a visitar a niños para dejarles un regalo en su zapato y los niños les dejan agua y grama para sus camellos.

El Salvador L o s salvadoreños t a m b i é n celebran el 24 de diciembre a la medianoche, pero continúan celebrando t o d o diciembre.

En la familia de la junior Sara

Hernández, es una tradición abrir regalos a la media noche durante Nochebuena.

Mientras la Navidad es un día festivo importante, el Año Nuevo tiene más tradiciones en su familia. En muchas partes de Latinoamérica, la superstición juega una gran parte en las vacaciones, como “las doce uvas para la suerte”.

Esta tradición se puede encontrar en diferentes países incluyendo en Guatemala y México.

A la medianoche la gente come una uva por cada mes del año para tener buena suerte en la vida.

Algunas familias también se p o n e n debajo de una mesa para

Ilustración por Lauren Olsen

encontrar amor. Otras tradiciones dependen de la familia.

“Nosotros tenemos una tradición de abrazar a las personas que amamos exactamente a la media noche, agradeciendo que tuvimos un año más juntos,” Hernández dijo.

Guatemala Como muchos otros países en Centroamérica, la Navidad es una de las fiestas principales en Guatemala, celebrada la noche antes, el 24 de diciembre. Una gran parte del país es de religión católica y por esta razón muchos celebran el nacimiento de Cristo durante Nochebuena. Celebran con fiestas de familia, cocinando y pasando tiempo juntos. La estudiante, Sammy Diaz habla sobre sus tradiciones entre su familia.

“Nosotros hacemos tamales o paches y todas las mujeres en mi familia incluyendo mis primas y yo, ayudamos a cocinarlos y es como nuestra tradición,” Diaz dijo.

Los tamales de diferentes formas son muy comunes durante las fiestas.

Se hacen de arroz, masa, papa y más.

También sirven ponche que es una bebida hecha de fruta y jugo. Los dos son platos típicos para el nuevo año también.

Hay muchos más países con diferentes tradiciones en Latinoamérica pero estos son unos ejemplos. Es importante celebrar culturas diferentes y apreciarlas.

“Me encantaría si la gente supiera que es bonito adoptar otras tradiciones especialmente porque pueden aprender de otras culturas. Me encantaría aprender otras tradiciones,” Hernández dijo.

bark@redwoodbark.org

feature

Page 11

The dark side of humor Using comedy as a coping mechanism any circumstance,” Marmysz said. “It’s a mental shift in perspective that allows you to extract a kind of pleasure from what It’s in whispers passed around would otherwise be harmful or painful.” hallways, in clever commentary and in But humor, for many, has grown more predictable puns. Yet as humor supports dark in recent years. In some ways, using us through lighthearted conversation, it humor can create a sense of freedom when can also serve as a shield from suffering. discussing more serious topics. According Humor, for many, can serve as a coping to a November Bark survey, 43 percent mechanism and a way for individuals to of students use humor “often” to discuss disguise their genuine emotions. But as difficult subjects. Junior Vel Connolly serious topics are tossed around with a explains how humor can give people an frightening degree of indifference and cries outlet to discuss their struggles more for help are masked in laughter, navigating comfortably and can provide a sense of humor’s complexities becomes ever more protection from the typical repercussions important. With its ability to bring smiles of a serious conversation. and laughter to a crowded room, humor “When you’re joking about something can be an essential part of humanity, but terrible, especially when it’s a personal how can its constant use, in place of serious issue, [humor] sort of gives you an out. conversation, affect those involved?

‘Well, I could be serious about this. But I Humor as a means of coping with could also be entirely joking,’” Connolly individual or societal struggles has been said. “[Then], when you have that freedom well studied. According to a study by to actually talk about your experiences, it Sahmyook University, the benefits of gives other people the space to [relate and laughter, as a result of humor, are numerous, share their own experiences].” including a decrease According to a in stress hormones and November Bark survey, an easing of anxiety.

33 percent of students Humor has its place “[Humor] is a perspective most frequently use in history as well. humor to discuss “The Decameron” that you can bring to bear negative experiences or was a comedy book on any circumstance. It’s trauma, compared to 21 published in 1352 as percent who use serious Europe was ravaged a mental shift that allows conversation. Wellness by the bubonic plague.

Outreach Specialist Detailing the lives you to extract a kind of Magdelena Maguire, of a group of people pleasure from what would experiences this trend quarantining together, as she finds discussions “The Decameron” otherwise be harmful or around mental illness or quickly became a other deeply personal bestseller, offering painful.” serious subjects can often a moment of levity John Marmysz, be coated in a thin layer amid an otherwise College of Marin philosophy of irony, as many people incredibly difficult professor use comedy as a means time. of distancing themselves Beyond its from the reality of their psychological and situation. For Maguire, social benefits, humor can also serve as the use of comedy to express mental health a mindset, according to College of Marin struggles at Redwood and beyond is the philosophy professor John Marmysz, who result of the current teenage generation has studied humor and its philosophical finding difficulty in openly experiencing significance. Marmysz asserts that humor and expressing their emotions. allows those who use it to retain a sense “What I see with this generation’s of joy through what would typically be a use [of humor] is a kind of deflection painful experience. [rather] than a coping skill. Kids will often “Humor is an attitude. It’s a come [into Wellness] and be like, ‘I’m perspective that you can bring to bear on depressed!’ and make a joke out of it. To a Story and Infographic by Tallulah Knill Allen and Linnea Koblik

Illustrations by Ava Stephens

certain degree, it makes it easier for them to come to terms with that because they see it as a common experience,” Maguire said. “It’s tough to get below the layers of humor and jokes before we get to, ‘Oh, I’m actually feeling so sad, and I feel really isolated and lonely.’”

While jokes about difficult subjects can allow people to express their personal experiences, they can result in the unintentional harm of those around them.

Connolly believes that as humor leads people to joke about increasingly sensitive topics, it is important to remember the audience for these jokes — and that they may not always be in a position to hear these subjects discussed in such a casual way.

“In general, I do not like it when people make self-harm jokes. I’m like, ‘Where’s the funny in this? There’s no positive aspect to this,’” Connolly said.

“You’re conditioning your brain to think this is okay. But that can hurt the people around you because you don’t know what other people’s experiences with [those topics] are.”

With this in mind, the use of jokes can also be a way for individuals to avoid confronting their problems. As humorous jokes are used in conversation, the severity and significance of the topics being addressed may be lost. Junior Kaitlyn Widman finds that the use of darker humor can lead people to share their own experiences in a way that disguises their emotions. Likewise, how one reacts to dark humor can also be difficult as the lines between humor and sincerity are often blurred. For Widman, responding to jokes with dark humor can be challenging as the meaning behind the humor may be hard to dissect. “[Using humor as a shield] can take away the serious aspect of [what you are saying], so you don’t get hurt,” Widman said. “You can just say, ‘It’s a joke,’ or ‘It’s dark humor,’ and then it’s okay. You’re focusing on the fact that you’re a funny person instead of the fact that there’s actually something more happening.”

Connolly adds that the frequency of these jokes in day-to-day conversations can desensitize those who use dark humor to the severity of their situation.

“The more you joke about sensitive topics, [such as suicide], the more you are subconsciously desensitizing your brain to that idea, and the more it can actually feed into suicidal ideation, and the

more dangerous things can actually be,” Connolly said.

But it’s important to recognize the invaluable role that humor can play in allowing people to view their challenges — and themselves — in a new light. Marmysz explains that humor offers a unique sense of individual reflection, as creating something humorous out of a traumatic experience can, for some, provide a source of liberation.

“I think the power of humor is to distance yourself from yourself,” Marmysz said. “Humor gives you the ability to turn inward and to laugh down at yourself…

That can be a kind of self-empowerment.”

Connolly additionally explains the importance of using humor to serve as a possible force of healing from negative experiences, allowing those who may be suffering to take on a new perspective.

“Sometimes, if you’ve been through something really difficult, making a joke out of it and making light of it can really help. ‘See, this thing isn’t hurting me anymore. Now that it’s funny, it can’t hurt me,’” Connolly said.

In Connolly’s experience, a serious conversation is often the best way to respond in this situation, to clarify the meaning behind the humor.

“When you’re actually concerned about your friends, those are times when you want to make it clear. Are they just making a joke? And sometimes it is pretty obvious.

But other times it is not,” Connolly said. “[It’s important] to let them know that they do not have to be joking all the time with you.”

Maguire highlighted the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind the use of humor.

“I invite students to check in with themselves about what they mean when they say [dark] things. What’s hiding under the mask of using comedy and levity in that moment?” Maguire said.

It is key, then, to locate the balance between sincerity and humor, and to remember the power humor holds as a means of expressing oneself within a difficult world, as Marmysz explained.

“That’s the real power of humor — it holds that promise [of] change. By developing your sense of humor, you can change yourself into a more powerful, masterful individual,” Marmyz said.

“Humor allows us to cope with a world that we wish was otherwise.” bark@redwoodbark.org

Beyond the prescription pad: Awareness of contraceptive pills

Challenges of Pill Consumption

By Emily Hitchcock In eighth grade, junior Alana Reber and Alana Leifer began taking birth control pills to assist her unregulated period. After two years of get nauseous and feel like I was going to on-and-off consumption, Reber decided to pass out,” Jaeger said. “[When I started stop taking the pill due to her profoundly birth control for it], I was young. I feel like negative experience. when I went on it, I thought [birth control] In 2020, Reber was diagnosed with was just for preventing pregnancy, but now hyperthyroidism, an autoimmune disorder I love it, and I’m happy that I went on it. characterized by the overproduction It’s helped me so much.” of thyroid hormone. Consumption of Similar to Jaeger, Penfield, despite her artificial progesterone and estrogen was challenging start with oral contraceptives, worsening her immune system, and the holds a generally positive view, countless side effects that Reber had acknowledging that they have proved to be suffered during her two years of ingesting beneficial for her. birth control had significantly threatened “Birth control helped my acne clear her health. up. Now, I don’t get “I do not understand how people big breakouts before [taking oral contraceptives] ignore the my period. As for side effects. Everyone tries to ignore how my cramps, the pill sick they feel. [Birth control] should be has helped them so helping women, but instead, it is making much. I’m still getting women’s bodies and immune systems cramps, but the ones I feel worse,” Reber said. “I would never would get before got recommend it to anyone.” to the extent where I For Reber, birth control was severely would get sick from damaging to both her physical and mental them,” Penfield said. well-being. She explained that the pill- “It was hard for my induced intense feelings of depression and body to adjust at first, Alana Reber, the associated weight-gain side effects but then I felt the junior negatively impacted her body image. positive effects start “All I wanted was to regulate my to work. It just takes period, but I ended up feeling depressed. time.”

I started to wonder, ‘Is it me?’ It hit my body hard, and I felt disgusting – I felt Understanding Oral Contraceptives artificial,” Reber said.

Dr. Rita Melkonian, Doctor of Medicine Reber expresses her frustration for not and a fellow of the American Congress of being informed of the side effects she may Obstetricians and Gynecologists, is a local experience, particularly how hormonal Gynecology and Urogynecology specialist birth control could adversely impact in Marin County. She works with her hyperthyroidism. patients to find the best birth control pill “I feel like I was not educated enough for their health. before starting the pill, especially with my “We like to change the pill depending autoimmune disease. The doctors just said on how our patients feel. Personally, my that it would help regulate my period, but patients don’t have problems because I they did not tell me birth control would start them with the very good new pills, change how my body feels and what it Loestrin and Nextstellis. However, we start looks like,” Reber said. “They just said, [our patients] on different pills depending ‘Shove this down your throat and see on their side effects. Because there are so if anything changes.’But, no, nothing many different kinds, even generic [ones],” helped.”

Melkonian said.

Junior Brooke Penfield It is essential began taking oral to understand the contraceptives in August properties of of this year with a desire birth control. to alleviate her intense According period cramps and to Planned facilitate acne relief.

Parenthood, there Illustration by Lauren Olsen Penfield found her first are two kinds few months on the pill to of birth control: be challenging. combination pills “Physically, it took two of the hormones months for my body to adjust. progesterone and estrogen, During those two months, I was exhausted, and progesterone-only pills. Users can and if I was an hour or two late to take experience adverse side effects because my pill, I would still bleed the whole next they react to these hormones, as seen with day,” Penfield said. “Mentally, I didn’t Reber’s hormonal autoimmune disorder. want to do what I [normally] wanted to According to The Independent Source do. I did not go for runs anymore; I wasn’t for Health Policy, Research and News: doing the things that I usually liked to do.” Women’s Health Policy, all women are susceptible to side effects. 31 percent of The Affirmative Stance contraceptive users complained of side At 13 years old, junior Audrey Jaeger effects, and 52 percent concurred that side determined that oral contraception was effects were worse than what they had her best choice to manage her painful expected. and unregulated periods. Unlike Reber Melkonian agrees that birth control can and Penfield, Jaeger continues to stand cause severe side effects, but a variety of by the choice she made four years ago, different brands exist that can precisely maintaining a positive perspective on the fit the health needs of an individual. pill.

Sometimes, a three-month test trial is “I used to have to stay home from needed to find the right one. school because of [my period]. I would “We like birth control pills that are

low in estrogen dose, and when [patients] don’t have side effects like weight gain and emotional problems. We want it to be as natural as possible and also affordable,” Melkonian said.

Birth control pills at Redwood Roughly three years after the Redwood Wellness Center opened, staff undertook the vital project of expanding student access to reproductive services. As evidenced by a 2015 Frequently Asked Questions about the Wellness Sexual Health Clinic that the Marin Community Clinic (MCC) runs on campus, over half of the students surveyed (557) responded that they would use reproductive health services through the Wellness Center. 82 percent of staff agreed it should be provided, and 85 percent of parents strongly agreed.

Jessica Colvin is the Wellness Director and one of the pioneers of the free, anonymous reproductive health accessibility program.

She oversees the distribution of the services for Tamalpais Unified High School District (TUHSD) schools.

“When I came to this district, [comprehensive reproductive health services on campus] did not exist. When we surveyed students and asked what they wanted to see in the Wellness Center, they said it was hard to get birth control, pregnancy testing, and Sexually Transmitted Infection testing, and it was hard to get after school. They wanted the services on campus. We worked to create this partnership with the MCC,” Colvin said.

The California Minor Consent and Confidentiality Laws allow youth aged 1217 to consent to their medical care to prevent and treat reproductive health problems.

Additionally, California Education Code 46010 allows school authorities to excuse students from school to obtain confidential medical services without the consent of their guardians.

“If students want to get birth control off campus, they can go through their primary care physician, and they can go through Planned Parenthood, or they can go through Teen Tuesday at Huckleberry.

Those are all options. Moreover, [they can] come on a day that MCC is on campus, every third Friday, about once a month, or at their out-of-campus clinic” Colvin said.

Birth control is only provided through the MCC if it is to prevent pregnancy. The sole point of implementing this program, through the lens of Colvin, is to make accessing their right to reproductive health easier under California law. Consent forms regarding requests for birth control are not accessible to staff outside of the Wellness Center and cannot be shared with a college. Additionally, the communitybased organization providers that meet with students, such as the MCC, have separate files inaccessible to school staff and protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

[The pill] hit my body hard, and I felt disgusting -- I felt artificial.

bark@redwoodbark.org

FDA approves Opill: The lens into the world of reproductive rights

From intrauterine devices (IUDs) to

By Annie Burlingame Depo-Provera shots, and to the original and Hailey Carlton pill (Plan-B), birth control has evolved substantially since its debut in May of birth control methods,” Maguire said.

1950. Over the past few decades, birth Junior Ella Povio offered similar viewcontrol and general contraceptives have points as she feels the high price of birth been altered to fit the ever-changing control is a prevalent issue. norms of teenage life. The most recent “I mean, health care is expensive, and update to the birth control pill was made going to a doctor is expensive. And I think just four months ago in 2023. Opill, the that having more accessibility, both finanfirst over-the-counter birth control pill, cially and also just easy access to [birth was approved by the FDA on July 13, control] is a good thing.”

2023. It is expected to be available to the According to USA Today, easy access public by 2024. Nevertheless, individu- precisely what the new pill is made for. als have developed concerns that this “Experts say the FDA’s groundbreakproduct is seemingly so well done it’s ing approval of the pill norgestrel, sold unrealistic. Numerous questions have under the brand name Opill, will increase emerged about the price, availability and access to effective contraception for people overall effectiveness who lack easy access to of Opill specifically the health care system due to current costs for a prescription,” acof contraceptives on cording to USA today. the market.

Beyond discussions According to of price, many individthe Centers for Disuals are also curious as ease Control and to why the Food and Prevention (CDC), Drug Administration’s “in 2015–2017, [it approval of the pill has was reported that] DoSomething, been so delayed. The 64.9 percent of the youth activism hub Opill birth control pill is 72.2 million women currently sold over the aged 15–49 in the United States were counter in Europe, Latin America, the Midcurrently using contraception.” Yet, de- dle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific. So, indispite birth control being used by such viduals wonder why it has taken so long in a large demographic, the reality is that the U.S., especially given that “the number the price can vary substantially depend- of women using a modern contraceptive ing on whether or not someone has in- method increased from 663 million to 851 surance. According to Planned Parent- million, between 2000 and 2020 and an adhood, without insurance, contraceptives ditional 70 million women are projected to like an IUD can cost up to $1300 and be added by 2030,” according to the World surgeries such as sterilization can cost Health Organization. up to $6000. Fortunately, regular birth Opill itself isn’t a new item as it has control only costs up to around $50 for been sold since 1973 under a different the month, cumulatively costing a total name of Norgestrel. The only difference of $600 a year without insurance. These is that originally it was sold as a prescripprices do not keep in mind that pre- tion only birth control, now the concept scriptions are often needed, increasing and name has been modified to allow the the costs as individuals must consult a product to be bought over the counter. In doctor. According to Sidecar Health, an contrast to other birth control pills, Opill American health insurance company, an only contains progestin, while other preaverage visit to the doctor in California scription pills contain both progestin and costs $103 to $158, depending on where estrogen. This means that Opill has less a person chooses to go. side effects than other oral contraceptives, Magdalena Maguire, a Wellness allowing for it to be bought without a preOutreach Specialist shared her opinions scription. This is considered a huge step on the price of birth control. given that unplanned pregnancy is an ex“If somebody can’t talk to their par- tremely prominent issue due to abortion ents about [birth control] or can’t talk to rights being restricted in lieu of Roe v. a doctor about getting on birth control, Wade. they [will be] faced with an $800 price tag monthly. That just [may] not be an option for somebody on their own. So I think it brings in a lot of socioeconomic status. If this is something that’s really expensive, and only accessible to the upper echelons of income, then it’s not doing what I think it’s intending to do –which is create [easier] access to these

Three in 10 teen American girls will get pregnant at least once before age 20.

Opill could be the new solution and give new hope for teens that don’t have the option to consult with their parents or a doctor about birth control, especially given the numbers of teenagers who get pregnant each year. According to the youth activism hub at DoSomething.org, “three in 10 teen American girls will get pregnant at least once before age 20, [which is] nearly 750,000 teen pregnancies every year.” Given how prominent teen pregnancy is, Opill could be a game changer for these teens around the world.

Junior Mika Temesov speaks on the cultural changes that this product could bring. “[Birth control] being in stores kind of makes the product a little less like, ‘oh, my gosh, you’re on birth control.’

[Instead] it’s more of something like [buying] Advil and now you can buy [birth control] the same way. I also feel that mentally it doesn’t put as much of a strain on you. It doesn’t make you feel like you’re doing something wrong, or your actions are being judged [when you buy birth control].” Temesov said.

It’s not uncommon for people, especially teenagers, to have sensitivity around the topic of birth control, which makes it even harder to encourage the younger generations to take advantage of the resource.

“I think it’s such a taboo thing, even just talking about [birth control]. I have certain friends that it makes them very uncomfortable to talk about stuff like that. And I think by making it more accessible, and more of a common topic, in general is a good thing,” Povio said.

While the introduction of Opill is highly anticipated in the reproductive health world, the contraceptive will not be available to buyers until 2024. In the meantime, resources such as Planned Parenthood and Huckleberry in San Rafael have been crucial assets to helping teenagers with safe sex and allowing them to access contraceptives. On top of this Redwood provides resources through the wellness sexual health clinic specifically for students use. Hopefully, with the addition of Opill to the shelves, it will be another resource that students can use to be in control of their bodies and feel more comfortable with discussions around birth control itself. bark@redwoodbark.org

Illustration by Ava Stephens

December 12, 2023 bark Page 14 • Feature California makes strides in addressing systemic racism Public Opinion and Education In a University of California Los Angeles survey, 93 percent of Black In a nation still grappling with its Californians expressed support for history of racism, the need for justice reparations as a necessary step in reverberates louder than ever. The African addressing the systemic racism caused by American experience in the United States slavery. However, since the report came is characterized by a recurring pattern of out in June, controversy intensified for unfulfilled pledges, spanning both distant those wary of reparations. and recent times. However, California is For Paul Austin, founder and CEO making the first strides toward mending of the non-profit Play Marin, the stigma some damage caused by systemic racism. around reparations is due to a lack of On June 29, 2023, the Task Force for education and a result of systemic racism.

African American Reparations issued a “These concerns or excuses [are final proposal to the state legislature on because] people get scared of the word how California can repair centuries of reparations… It is one of those buzzwords unfair treatment towards African American where it [feels] offensive to the bigger Californians. After nearly 100 witnesses majority of people, which is white people… and 200 hours of public hearings, the But no, the word reparations means to nine-member panel released a 1000-page repair,” Austin said. “The inequities from document detailing their recommendations. slavery are still happening. So what are we Future decisions on reparations are going to do to help make adjustments?” expected to become The idea of rampant in the In a recent Bark survey, reparations may bring coming year, and up mixed emotions as of early October, only 28 percent of due to a lack of Senator Bradford education. In a recent began feats to Redwood students Bark survey, only 28 amend Senate Bill said they felt confident percent of Redwood 490 to establish a students said they felt “Freedmen Affairs they could have a confident they could Agency” to help have a conversation conversation about descendants of about reparations. So, slavery. However if people cannot talk reparations. the challenges about reparations, or of implementing don’t even know what reparations should be met with deliberate the word means exactly, how can they form education emphasizing what reparations an opinion or eventually vote on an issue mean for African Americans and deeper that affects our society? understanding on the impacts of slavery.

The California Common Core These amends intend to repair the Curriculum does not specify a need to human rights violations caused by slavery teach students about reparations, nor does and subsequent discrimination. They could it include coursework about systemic come in the form of direct cash payments racism. However, as of a new law passed or their equivalent, such as infrastructure in 2021, students will have to fulfill a investments, college tuition or other semester-length ethnic studies course options to those eligible, in addition to a founded on critical race theory; students formal apology issued by the state to those in the class of 2030 will be the first ones affected by slavery. subject to the graduation requirement.

For many Black community members, The course school districts will delve into like Keith Jackson, youth mentor for the contributions and struggles of Blacks, Tamalpais Union High School District Latinos, Native Americans and Asian students, the idea of reparations is hopeful, Americans throughout the nation’s history. yet has its problems.

Such classes are currently offered in “It will never replace what happened. hundreds of high schools, and last year, the But just the thought that America would be boards of Los Angeles Unified and Fresno saying there was wrongdoing and here’s Unified decided to mandate ethnic studies. something to show for in good faith, can Researchers have even pointed out the start a little healing,” Jackson said. academic benefits of these courses; in San Francisco schools, attendance increased Story and Infographics by Lucy Wong Ryniejski

by 21 percent and raised cumulative grade point averages by 1.4 points.

Governor Newsom has repeatedly commented and taken action on the diversification of California education in terms of race and ethnic studies, including promoting an Advanced Placement African American studies class and inclusive literature. Further, for the state’s 10,000 plus schools, Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1078 to ban book bans and textbook censorship. This bans school boards from rejecting textbooks based on their teachings of people from different racial backgrounds and identities.

Melvin Atkins, leader of the Marin City Reparations Task Force and participant in state Task Force hearings, shared his thoughts on the need for education and the meaning of reparations.

“Reparations are not a giveaway or welfare. It is a debt. Like a loan, paying someone for work, or damages. … Since we live in a society that has dirtied up the image of Black people — who we are and what we are — people have predetermined biases. Nobody thinks we deserve anything,” Atkins said. “But, on the other hand, where does this come from? ... It’s historical racism and generational trauma.

So for people to be really educated, they need to understand [the historical background].”

Another critical concern for California is the option of direct cash payments to descendants of African Americans compared to reparations as public developments.

For Austin, whatever the reparation type, Black Americans should have the freedom to choose how they use cash reparations.

“I see it as you get people reparations and allow them to do with it as they please, if they want to blow the money on traveling or whatever, they should have the option. Because no matter what race you are, some people are going to do wonderful things and some will be selfish. But if we don’t give people those options, then we’re never truly doing right by people,” Austin said.

Historical Background While California was not officially a slave state, it did not escape the centuries of discrimination plaguing the country. From 1850 to 1860, more than 2,000 enslaved people were brought to California during the Gold Rush. Today, the impacts of slavery are still apparent through systemic racism such as the racial wealth gap and

mass incarceration disparities. If victims of slavery received proper reparations, the state of racial inequality in America would look very different today. Paul Austin shared his perspective on these historical inequalities.

“Upon African Americans being freed from slavery, they were supposed to be given 40 acres. Historically, from a debt perspective, 80 percent of wealth is through ownership of property. So, if my ancestors received that, imagine what that could have done for our family,” Austin said.

Moving Forward Beyond justice and a start for emotional healing, reparations could bring many benefits to people of all ethnicities. If deliberately integrated, reparations could diversify racially segregated areas like Marin or produce an economic upturn.

According to Austin, reparations will only bring Americans closer together. “[If reparations are implemented], America will still win in the end, with an economic boost and a bigger melting pot [of cultures]. Not only that, it will [also] tell the truth about our history,” Austin said. “Give those folks the opportunity to benefit from the backs of their ancestors.”

As historic as this moment may be, advocates for reparations have not yet crossed the finish line. The state legislature will have to decide which recommendations they want to turn into bills for consideration.

The bills would then need to be voted on by state assembly members and the Senate – if approved, they would be sent to Gov. Gavin Newsom to be signed into law or vetoed. Unfortunately, however, this may not happen until next year.

As of recent months, few lawmakers publicly expressed support for preliminary recommendations. Damon Connolly, an assembly member for Marin County (San Rafael, District D), is one of the few proclaiming support for reparations and the task force’s preliminary recommendations.

If momentum toward restitution continues, California could become a blueprint for the rest of the nation. In the meantime, rather than relying on voters to weigh in on this change, California’s public schools should work diligently to include education about reparations and the lasting impacts of slavery.

lwong@redwoodbark.org

bark

Page 15 • Feature

www.redwoodbark.org

Exploring the enigmatic realm of our dreams

By Anna Youngs and Molly Gallagher

n tio stra ng ou aY

n An by s

It’s within that state of deep relaxation that your body does physical healing. The brain has time to digest things that it can’t do while you’re moving around.

society. We have to remove buildings and technology and the way we live our lives today,” Hirsch said.

Because the conscious mind has difficulty healthily processing

I llu

Have you ever wondered about the meaning behind your recurring dream of falling? Or if your nightmare about clowns is something deeper than a fear?

Regardless of whether your dreams are black and white or full of color, lucid or difficult to remember, they still may carry a deeper meaning. Weaving together emotion, imagination and even mystery, dreams have the power to hold profound meanings and be a source of self-discovery or understanding.

According to Oxford Languages, a dream is a series of thoughts, images and sensations occurring in a person’s mind during sleep. In eight hours of sleep, the average person has three to five Rapid Eye Movement (REM) cycles. During this time, the brain’s thinking stops, but its cognitive activity continues in an unconscious state through dreams. This stage is called Rapid Eye Movement because of the way eyes move behind eyelids while one is dreaming. REM accounts for 25 percent of the total time one spends sleeping and typically the average person has about three to five dreams nightly during this cycle.

Psychology teacher Jonathan Hirsch is knowledgeable about the sleep cycle and how it influences brain activity. “ I t ’ s within that state of deep relaxation that your body does physical healing. The brain has time to digest things that it can’t do while you’re m o v i n g around. [The] p u r p o s e Jonathan Hirsch, of sleep is psychology teacher recharging, but there are parts of your brain that are still active so that you can wake up if you need to,” Hirsch said.

Even though there has been a significant amount of research on cognitive activity while sleeping, it has been challenging to fully understand dreams because of the lack of data and the reliability of data that neurologists have been able to collect.

According to Hirsch, one way of collecting data is by waking people up and asking them what they had dreamt about.

This evidence alone, however, is not very reliable because in one given sleep cycle, a person could have had a dozen dreams

and only remember one. The other way of collecting data is through sleep labs. Sleep labs are limited in their abilities though, as they rely on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to gather data. The only way an MRI works is if the subject doesn’t move at all, which is a difficult requirement to fulfill for an entire night of sleep.

With that being said, one of the specific types of dreams that neurologists have been able to recognize is lucid dreaming. Initiating a lucid dream is not an easy feat and there is not one specific way of trying to have one. The most common attempt includes practicing awareness in an unconscious state.

“A lucid dream is a dream that — to a degree — you can guide [and be] aware of what’s happening. To gain that awareness [during sleep, an individual] has to reconnect with a conscious part of their brain, which we [normally] turn off when we sleep,” Hirsch said “While lucid dreams can be fascinating and cool and may end up having some kind of therapeutic or cognitive value, I question the value in trying to [lucid dream], at least on a regular basis for anything other than the pure entertainment of it.”

Analyzing the meaning behind our dreams is another field that has yet to be fully explored.

Dreams can be interpreted, but doing so is more difficult than it seems.

For instance, if you have a recurring nightmare about falling off a cliff, that does not necessarily mean you have a fear of falling, as one may assume. Instead, a common theory is that a recurring dream about falling could be symbolic of the feeling of being out of control.

Hirsch explains that when we try to interpret dreams, it is important to not take the images that we see literally. “[To interpret dreams], we have to remove the context of our modern

emotions, some believe that dreaming can be a vehicle for processing emotions and that journaling about dreams can give you a new perspective. Often, remembering and writing down a dream gives one the ability to look into what the dream could mean.

Senior Jake Williams is currently taking psychology and speaks to the value that dreams can hold.

“I don’t think your dreams can tell you what’s going to happen in your future, but I do think they are expressions of what you’re repressing, and your fears and other emotions that you may not consciously feel,” Williams said.

One resource that offers dream interpretation for those who are curious about a specific dream is the National Dream Hotline. By calling the phone number (773)-427-0155, one can hear professional opinions on what their dreams truly represent in their reality. The hotline, hosted by the University of Metaphysics, offers a free dream interpretation webinar every Wednesday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., hosted by professionals at the university. Callers may reach any one of the seven branches at https://som.org/ schools/ or visit https://dreamschool.org/ for the webinars.

While dreams may not be a prediction of the future, exploring their meaning can be entertaining and even therapeutic for some people – specifically individuals who hope to learn more about themselves

through their dreams. Next time you wake up in the middle of the night from a nightmare or a strange dream, consider writing it down to explore its true meaning, you might be able to learn more about your fears, hopes and aspirations. bark@redwoodbark.org

Illustration by Lauren Olsen

review

Page 16

Souvla’s irresistible menu expands to Marin

By Leina Khan Founded in 2014 in the streets of Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Souvla swiftly became a culinary beacon, drawing inspiration from the laid-back souvlaki joints scattered across Greece. Fast forward to the present, and Souvla has expanded its reach to Marin County with a recently opened establishment nestled in the charming Marin Country Mart of Larkspur. Boasting a contemporary fastfood approach, Souvla stands out as an ideal spot for a satisfying lunch experience.

The menu spans a diverse range, featuring

everything from savory Gyro pita wraps to sweet baklava frozen yogurt.

Lamb Gyro Wrap From the warm, pillowy pita bread to the generously seasoned tender lamb pieces, the lamb wrap sets the bar high with a perfect blend of both texture and flavor. With delicious additions such as cucumbers, onions, radishes and a plentiful amount of feta, the sandwich flavors are perfectly enhanced. The slight hint of spice from the harissa spiked yogurt sauce and the perfect plenty of ingredients will satisfy your savory fix.

Illustration by Ava Stephens

Vegetarian Salad Souvla’s menu is beautifully catered to many different diets with vegetarian and vegan options, such as their vegetarian and plant-based lamb salads and wraps. To shine light on these plant based options I tried the vegetarian salad. The base layer of fresh collard kale and lettuce, tossed in yogurt dressing, and the hints of sweetness from the white sweet potatoes, showcase the salad’s ability to captivate without the presence of meat. The salad also features a variety of other toppings that help enhance the flavors, including pickled purple onions to add acidity, olives to add saltiness and some walnuts for a fun crunch.

Photo courtesy of Souvla

GARNISHED WITH SHREDDED mizithra cheese and pea shooters, the vegetarian salad showcases brilliant colors, displaying its diverse flavor combinations.

Baklava Frozen Greek Yogurt To complete this savory meal I decided to order a sweet treat. Souvla offers a simple frozen yogurt base with four

different toppings of your choice: a honey or olive oil drizzle, soaked cherry topping or a baklava topping. I decided to go for the baklava topping as it is one of my favorite desserts. For context, baklava is a flakey pastry-like dessert with many layers of phyllo dough, covered in brushes of butter and finally soaked in a sugar syrup. With the mild and somewhat tart frozen yogurt and the decadently sweet baklava, this dessert serves as a perfect combination of flavors and was a very enjoyable way to end my meal.

Souvla’s delicious Greek cuisine has kept customers lining up at the door. With convenient elements from fast food to high quality from fine dining, Souvla proves itself to be a perfect addition to The Marin Country Mart. lkhan@redwoodbark.org

Egg-sploring Marin’s newest breakfast spot: Sour Kid Cafe wish the bread was toasted to add a crunch to the cooked egg.

As for other items on Sour Kid’s menu, I ordered the avocado toast, a dish that entails three slices of toasted sourdough topped with freshly sliced avocado and house-made seasoning. The meal also comes with chili oil on the side which many dip their toast into. Taking my first bite, I noticed the dish’s perfect portion of avocado. The house seasoning and chili oil elevated the flavor, making it more sophisticated than regular homemade avocado toast.

Although it is a bit far from campus, Sour Kid Cafe offers quality and worthy breakfast options. With a limited but tasty menu, an old-time aesthetic and inviting outdoor seating, Sour Kid Cafe is certainly a good place to grab a reasonably priced breakfast, have a coffee with a friend or simply enjoy a nice morning in Marin.

By Jordan Kimball Over 30 years ago, Michael’s Sourdough Sandwiches opened two locations in Marin County, one in San Rafael and the other in Novato. Since opening, the fastcasual sandwich shop has thrived, quickly catching the attention of many in Marin.

They’ve won numerous awards, including “Best Sandwiches” by Marin Magazine in their Best of the County 2019 voting and Pacific Sun’s Best of Marin award for “Best Sandwich Shop,” and are often very busy, seeing a community of loyal guests who have rallied around them for decades.

At the beginning of September, a new sandwich restaurant named Sour Kid Cafe opened its doors right next to Michael’s.

Owned by Michael’s son, Chris Braun, Sour Kid Cafe combines their renowned sourdough bread from Michael’s with fresh egg sandwiches. The menu also features other breakfast delicacies including pastries from Rustic Bakery. With just five items on the menu, the options are limited, but the reasonable prices and high-quality

Photo by Jordan Kimball

Photo by Jordan Kimball

SOUR KID CAFE specializes in fresh breakfast sandwiches.

THE BACON, EGG and cheddar sandwich features crispy bacon, melty cheese and a fluffy egg on the fresh and famous Michael’s Sourdough bread. ingredients make Sour Kid Cafe a nice the spicy mayonnaise that came with it partner to its sibling restaurant next door. added a much-needed kick. To top it off, Looking at Sour Kid’s menu, it was the cheese melted onto the bread, leaving a clear that their specialty dish was egg stretchy pull when I took a bite. sandwiches, so it seemed necessary to try. I The sandwiches tasted good and started by ordering a bacon, egg and cheddar contained intense flavor, but nothing made sandwich and then one with avocado, egg them stand out to me compared to other and cheddar. When I tasted the sandwiches, restaurants. While they comprise fresh I quickly understood the appeal; the warm ingredients, they could alternatively be sourdough from next door, paired with made at home, so making the trip to Sour perfectly cooked eggs, melty cheese and Kid solely for their breakfast sandwiches crispy bacon/sliced avocado created a may not be the best idea. I felt Sour Kid quality breakfast sandwich. Additionally, could have used more of each item and I

To view Sour Kid Cafe’s full menu, scan this QR code.

jkimball@redwoodbark.org

Page 17 • Review

www.redwoodbark.org

bark

A Grinch’s perspective on Christmas music

By Mia Ginsburg I do not celebrate Christmas. I’m rather practiced at dreidel, and I prefer Adam Sandler’s “Hanukkah Song,” if you catch my drift. For further clarification, look at my last name on the byline. Thus, I feel like I can objectively evaluate Christmas music, free of any nostalgia or warm associations.

All I Want for Christmas Is You: Mariah Carey This song sports outstanding vocals, and the bells in the background are a pleasant touch. It’s a nice romantic song and checks a lot of the boxes for holiday music!

Santa reference? Check. Reindeers? Check. Mistletoe?

Check. It’s got it all. However, the references to the myth of Santa make it less appealing to me. A grown woman singing about asking Santa for a (at least I’d hope) grown man feels odd. Come on? Just me?

Santa Tell Me: Ariana Grande It’s nice enough; it’s fine. It’s not offensive by any means. The lyrics are just a tad repetitive, it’s the same line over and over. Over and over. Over and over.

Over and over. Musically, it’s okay, enjoyable even, as background music perhaps.

Jingle Bell Rock: Bobby Helms I really like this one and the opening riff is nothing short of iconic. Am I biased by its association with “Mean Girls?” Perhaps. It simply makes me jolly, what can I say? It is just so catchy. It makes me want to clap!

The holiday season is coming upon us quickly, and it’s easy to put off finding the perfect presents. But when the looming threat of gift-giving awaits, it is hard to fully enjoy the festivities. Worried about how you can accurately show your appreciation and close connection for loved ones through gifts? Bark is here to help. To read more, scan the QR code directly to the left.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas: Michael Bublé God, it’s like Bublé just gets me. I might not celebrate Christmas, but who doesn’t like the lights wrapped around trees on every street? Or candy canes?

Or wreaths? It’s that slight nip in the air, the time of year everyone starts to wear pants, even the “shortsonly” boys. It really is a magical season. Bublé captures that perfectly in this song, a kind of secular music that almost anyone can enjoy!

Drummer Boy: Justin Bieber Nails on a chalkboard. The lyrics are crimes against Christianity. “Yeah I’m on the beat ‘cause the beat goes dumb.” Come on. Bieber might be “surprised you didn’t hear this in the Bible,” but I am certainly not. Yes, that’s a real line. No, you should not listen to it just for chuckles. It is just not worth it.

Finding the best gingerbread house

A.

Story and Photos by Henrik Vraanes Want to know what gingerbread house kit to buy? Scan below to read more.

Silent Night: Bing Crosby Listening to Bing Crosby croon is like an auditory version of watching old Disney movies by a crackling fire. It’s comforting, soothing and oddly lullaby-like. It’s angelic, really. They really don’t make music like this anymore. What a shame.

There is plenty of good Christmas music to listen to, but also some Justin Bieber-sized musical landmines.

Avoid them at all costs, or else your eardrums will rupture. If you ask me, an objective source, I’d advise everyone to stick to the classics. The Christmas season doesn’t just have to appeal to those who celebrate the holiday, so don’t turn yourself off to songs with a touch of Christian rhetoric or else you’ll be missing out on some pure gems. Whether you like Christmas trees, menorahs or neither, enjoy some solid music this season.

mginsburg@redwoodbark.org

B.

C.

sports

Page 18

Lera Bondarenko makes a splash

By Matthew Knauer Moving from Kazakhstan, a country in Central Asia, to America at four years old, Lera Bondarenko was completely unfamiliar with the English language.

It took her years to learn English and adjust to American culture, all while moving from state to state. By age 14, she finally arrived in Marin County, entering Redwood as a freshman. During these times of change, diving has been a stabilizing force for Bondarenko.

“I’ve been diving since I was four years old, and I started competitively when I was 10. No matter where I lived I always dove, and it’s been an extremely important part of my life, ” Bondarenko said.

Even with the stability it’s brought for

Bondarenko, diving has come with its own challenges, such as not being able to compete beyond Zones, the regional championships before Nationals for USA diving.

“Because I’m a permanent resident of the United States and not a citizen, I am not allowed to compete past Zones for USA diving,” Bondarenko said. “It can be frustrating working so hard all year and qualifying for Nationals [then] not being able to participate.”

However, despite the disappointment in not being able to compete, a positive outcome emerged from the situation.

“I still traveled with the team to Nationals, and I got to meet and talk to the Columbia University coach while I was there.

After a lot o f

talking, he eventually asked me to come on my official visit, which led to me getting offered [a scholarship],” Bondarenko said.

Bondarenko is coached by Miranda Maas for both Redwood and Divelab, her club diving team in Novato. Over the 10 years she has coached Bondarenko, Maas has been impressed by the growth in her mental fortitude and ability to overcome hurdles.

“Her attitude and mindset is always positive, no matter what the situation is or anything negative that’s going on. She’s always had the athletic ability, but her mentality has really grown, and she’s able to get through just about anything,” Maas said.

Another one of Lera’s coaches is her father, Denis Bondarenko, the National Diving Champion of Kazakhstan and winner of Gold in the Asian Championships.

“It’s always really great to have him coach me, because he knows how and when to push me and it makes me so much better. Sometimes it can be tough to draw the line between being a father and a coach, but overall I love it,” Bondarenko said.

Because of her father’s success,

Photos courtesy of Lera Bondarenko

expectations were always high for her.

Yet, they’ve never fazed her, leading to her qualifying for the National Championships, going undefeated in the Marin County Athletic League and committing to Columbia University.

“It’s absolutely insane that I’m going to Columbia, I’m so happy and I feel like the hard work has paid off,” Bondarenko said.

mknauer@redwoodbark.org

Rethinking specialization: Balancing youth sports

By Matthew Knauer

Over the past decade, the landscape of youth sports has changed dramatically. A teenage athlete in 2023 is 29 times more likely to receive anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery than an athlete 20 years ago.

Seventy percent of athletes will stop playing sports by the age of 13 and over 60 percent of high school athletes experience significant stress due to their sport. With the prospect of college scholarships, flashy Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals and lucrative professional sports contracts, athletes feel pressured to focus on one specific sport to maximize their potential.

Dr. Joel Brenner, a well-renowned pediatric sports medicine specialist in Virginia, has studied the effects of sports specialization on youth and believes that financial incentives have had major impacts.

“Travel sports [are] big money makers, so there’s pressure for organizations to push kids into playing as much as they can so [the organization] can make as much money as possible.

When I grew up, we were out in the street playing hockey, pickup basketball or baseball for most of the year, but now kids play travel sports instead,” Brenner said.

The youth travel sports industry has grown immensely in recent years; families spent a total of 39 billion dollars in 2021 on travel sports, according to Wintergreen Research. Large

organizations such as Perfect Game, Ballislife and Overtime organize national tournaments and showcases for baseball, basketball and football, attracting families with exposure to college coaches and social media highlight clips. Athletes and their families are often told that they will eventually get college scholarships through hard work,

Illustration by Ava Stephens

expensive camps and tournaments learn how to play sports on their own offered by these companies. The yearand learning how to play through having round dedication required by this dream fun is essential to solving this problem,” leaves no room for playing other sports Brenner said. or taking time off, and such intense Junior Wells Borden never training often takes a toll on athletes, succumbed to the pressure of sports leading to burnout or specialization and has injuries from overuse. continued to play golf One doctor who and soccer and has has studied these surfed throughout high effects to a great school. extent is Dr. Bradford “I believe that Strand, a health, doing multiple sports nutrition and exercise makes me a much better sciences professor athlete. Each sport at North Dakota requires a different State University. type of athleticism and Strand has studied they all blend together sports specialization to make me much more for years and well-rounded than if subsequently I had just played one published numerous Dr. Bradford Strand sport,” Borden said. studies on the mental With the growth and physical effects of the travel sports on young athletes. industry, families are “We have more incoming college forced to make difficult decisions that athletes with severe overuse injuries may have a large impact on a child’s than ever before and we’ve also seen the future. They can decide to have their highest rates of mental burnout in high child play one sport in hopes they get a school athletes. These are because kids college scholarship, but then they risk are playing one sport year-round with injuries and burnout, not to mention little time to rest,” Strand said. that only two percent of high school Brenner emphasizes the athletes obtain college scholarships. importance of “sandlot” sports games, On the other hand, they can enroll their neighborhood games without parental children in multiple sports and increase supervision, in the fight against youth their overall athleticism and health, with specialization. a lower chance of a college scholarship.

“One of the things we’re really Both possibilities have their pros and trying to promote is for kids to cons, and parents must weigh both sides have time for activities and sports before making the crucial decision. where adults are not involved.

These adults are typically the ones putting pressure on the kids in mknauer@redwoodbark.org many different ways, so letting kids

We have more incoming college athletes with severe overuse injuries than ever before...

Page 19 • Sports Meet the Captains: Winter Sports 2023 What traits do you have that make you a good captain?

By Mayson Weingart

“Something that I’ve learned from being a leader on the team is that it’s important to have patience and make sure you’re always helping other people learn. I think teaching other people is the most important thing, just being patient, taking your time to make sure they understand and being there for them,” Anaru Todd said.

“I’m a pretty understanding guy.

I’ve had a lot of experience in this sport, so I understand what my teammates are going through because I’ve followed their same path. I really feel I can use the lessons I’ve learned to help them,” Jack Middleton said.

“I do a good job at using my voice and making sure that everyone always knows what’s going on. I think it’s really important to pick people up after they make a mistake and show them that it’s ok [as long as] you play hard through it,” Tatum McPeek said.

“I’m a good listener. I always listen to everyone on my team, which I think is going to help a lot this season because there are a lot of new people,” Claire Banks said.

“I value leadership a lot. I like to take charge of things when I feel like there is an issue on the team.

I also always listen to the team to figure out what they want and don’t want,” Maddie Eaton said.

“Overall, leadership skills. I’m really vocal and caring and always try to keep it light. I’m also a big humor guy. I like to make sure that every practice isn’t necessarily too intense and we are keeping a good balance between seriousness and enjoying our sport,” Gil Ladetzky said.

“I think that I’m hardworking, enthusiastic and energetic. I’ve been on the team for four years so I also just have a lot of experience,” Colette Boyden said.

“I have experience. I have been wrestling since freshman year and I understand what it takes to perform at a high level of competition.

Naturally I am a leader and I enjoy seeing the underclassmen rise up and fill up the varsity spots,” Ali Hamzia said.

“I think I’m really good at bringing everyone together and just like hyping us up for games. I also try to make sure that everyone holds themselves to a high standard, works hard in practice and includes everyone on the team,” Dakota Ledesma said.

“I’m really passionate and competitive. I think that I’m a great leader by example,” Jake Vasquez said.

“I’m very passionate and dedicated.

Overall, leading by example is a great way to lead a team.

I’ve been organizing pre-season practices, making sure everyone is invested early in the year, which is key to success later on, [for example] when we reach the playoffs,” Jack Corvi said.

“I’m hardworking, I’m a diligent worker and I really care about my teammates and the team. I also always lead by example,” BJ Fisher said.

mweingart@redwoodbark.org

December 12, 2023 bark Page 20 • Sports Redwood scores with a new freshman team

By Julia Delsol For the first time in Redwood’s history, a freshman soccer team will take the field.

Every year, soccer is one of the most competitive sports at Redwood, leading to many students getting cut. These cuts happen due to insufficient space on the junior varsity and varsity rosters as well as poor performance. However, adding the freshman team allows more students to

play high school soccer and express their love for the game, also bringing the class of 2028 together on and off the field.

Kelsey McNair, co-coach of the team, is deeply committed to her role. McNair is currently teaching at two different elementary schools and previously attended the University of Mississippi, where she played club soccer. Coaching aligns perfectly with her passion for both soccer and teaching. Before her college

“I never played [soccer] at Redwood. It was not due to my skill but purely due to numbers. “ Kelsey McNair, coach

Photo by Julia Delsol

NEW COACH KELSEY McNair strategizes with her team for their first game against Terra Linda.

years, McNair attended Redwood, where she had hopes of playing soccer.

“I never played at Redwood. It was not due to my skill but purely due to numbers.

That’s why I was so excited about having a freshman team,” McNair said.

Expressing her gratitude for the team, McNair emphasized how disappointing it would have been if her players hadn't been given the opportunity to play high school soccer.

Like McNair, many athletes are thankful for the opportunity to continue playing the sport they love. Molly Pipitone, a player on the team, feels that the freshman team

will further her skill set while leading to unforgettable memories.

Playing soccer every day helps me relax and have fun. It's a great atmosphere with awesome people,” Pipitone said.

McNair’s coaching partner, Caitlan Buono, talked about her goals for the team.

Growing up in Marin and playing soccer at Marin Catholic, Buono feels comfortable and ready to run it back where she started her career. She knows what it takes to win and has a lot of goals set in stone for the girls this year.

“My goal is to be undefeated, but more importantly, to have a good team culture.

As a coach, I want people to trust me and ask me questions. I am a coach, but I also want to be a mentor,” Buono said.

High school athletics teach valuable life lessons such as teamwork and resilience.

Without a freshman team, many students would miss out on these important lessons and moments that will stick with them forever.

“I’m happy I can get better at soccer [while] making friends. I wouldn't have had this [opportunity] without the freshman team,” Pipitone said.

jdelsol@redwoodbark.org

Marin Highlanders welcomes new players of all skill levels

By Lynette Ki

On Dec. 3, 2023, the Marin Highlanders women’s rugby team hosted a clinic at Terra Linda High School from 1-3 p.m., welcoming students of all skill levels to participate. The event aimed to introduce newcomers to the sport, refine the skills of veteran players and cultivate a sense of camaraderie within the local community.

Among the participants was freshman Emily Muller who attended the clinic for the first time, having learned about the team through a friend. Notably, her father, a former coach for the middle and high

school boys’ team and college player, has a longstanding connection to the sport.

“I saw it as a bit of a masculine sport at first. I don’t think it’s targeted towards women and was a little nervous to say I was doing this, but it was so fun and competitive I don’t think [anyone] should be embarrassed at all,” Emily said.

Emily’s experience aligned with Coach Kevin Sullivan’s aim to popularize women’s rugby. Her experience highlights how engaging in new activities can help dispel personal misconceptions.

Sullivan explains that the sport embraces inclusivity, supporting individuals of all body types.

Photo by Lynette Ki

GATHERING AT THE end of practice, junior Kate Harrison leads the team in their spirited chant.

“We figure out what your strength is and we keep you there. We don’t force you into something that you’re not,” Sullivan said.

With 15 seasons right around the corner, referring to the traditional 15 versus 15 player format in rugby, the clinic served as a gateway for prospective players. Celeste Perez, the team parent and mother to juniors Lily and Lucy Perez, reflected on the impact of rugby on young players.

“Rugby has given [Lily and Lucy] so much self-confidence. It’s given them something to look forward to,” Celeste said. “The basic premise of rugby is you get out there and fight on the field; it’s a real brother-sister hood sport.”

In 2019, Lily and Lucy, along with Sullivan, founded a women’s rugby team. Since then, they’ve cultivated an empowering environment, warmly welcoming everyone.

“Just come and try. If it’s not the right thing, you can come for as long as you want without committing and you’re always welcome,” Lucy said.

The positive influence of rugby on individuals is evident in the narrative of player Sabine Fuchs, a junior at The Branson School, who elaborated on how rugby has changed her self-image.

“It changed my perception of my body, [turning it] from an object of appearance [into] a tool of strength. Rugby helped

Photo by Lynette Ki

EXECUTING A STRATEGIC move, freshmen Emily Muller kicks the ball to her teammate. me see my body as something powerful and something I am proud of regardless of how it looks because of what it can do,” Fuchs said.

As the Marin Highlanders gear up for the upcoming season, their message is clear: rugby is not just a sport. It is a community, a family and an opportunity for growth. The team welcomes new players of all skill levels, embodying the spirit of inclusivity that defines the sport. lki@redwoodbark.org

Page 21 • Sports

www.redwoodbark.org

Fall MCAL All-League dominated with 50 athletes

By Charlotte Lacy

bark

GIRLS’ CROSS COUNTRY

BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY

Photo by Charlotte Lacy

BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY MCAL All-League team left to right: Justin Shern, Gabriel Cavanagh, Ethan Werner, Gunner Niemi.

GIRLS’ WATER POLO

Photo by Charlotte Lacy

GIRLS’ WATER POLO MCAL All-League team left to right: Giselle Orson and Katherine DeForrest.

FOOTBALL

Photo by Charlotte Lacy

GIRLS’ CORSS COUNTRY MCAL All-League team left to right: Marley Nacco, Kate Kozubik, Josephine Perlov, Beatrice Nass, Erin Stolte.

BOYS’ WATER POLO

Photo by Charlotte Lacy

BOYS’ WATER POLO MCAL All-League team left to right: Andrew Wallace, Sawyer Goldberg, Ossie Joplin.

FIELD HOCKEY

Photo by Charlotte Lacy

Football MCAL All-League team back row left to right: Jack M., Jackson F., Dante R., Jackson W. Antony L. , Augustus B. Front row left to right: Ronan R., Wilson S., Dante D., Miles H.

GIRLS’ GOLF

Photo by Charlotte Lacy

FIELD HOCKEY MCAL All-League team left to right: Caroline Muller, Natalie Poncet, Sammy Haan, Maisie Pipitone, Georgia Bender, Bella Wagner.

GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL

Photo by Lauren Poulin

GIRLS’ GOLF MCAL All-League team left to right: Imani Katiriya, Katherine Lim, Chloe Branson, Taylor Bridges, Ainsley Gallagher, Katelyn Van Dusen (not pictured), Nicole Azar (not pictured).

GIRLS’ TENNIS

Photo by Charlotte Lacy

GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL MCAL All-League team left to right: Jaden Hendrickson, Maddy Wagner, Neeva Gaine, Ella Moran (not pictured).

Read about the athletes online here: Photo by Molly Gallagher

GIRLS’ TENNIS MCAL All-League team left to right: Julia Povio, Livia Klompus, Gwenn Ricordel, Lindsey Reed, Jordan Marotto, Ella Povio, Annesley Krawitt (not pictured).

clacy@redwoodbark.org

lifestyles

Page 22

Paul Austin offers support for TUHSD stop-and-learn still present.

This past month, the Tamalpais “Currently, the white community Union High School District (TUHSD) has most of the power. It’s going to board created an anti-racism take them to help push change forward, curriculum to be taught during school, especially here in Marin and in general,” rolling out “stop-and-learn” lessons at said Paul Austin, CEO of Play Marin each site. During the Tamalpais High and local racial School (Tam) justice advocate. stop-and-learn, Austin and Austin was his family made welcomed into renovations to their the school to home in 2020 and give support to became victims students who of appraisal experienced discrimination. alienation and When they got discomfort due their first appraisal to their race. back, it was below “I went to a million dollars.

Tam to take However, with up space when a white friend they did the standing in as stop-and-learn the homeowner, to create a it appraised for [platform] for almost $500,000 Black students more. to just be,” This event of Austin said. “It racial injustice was more for in Marin County [the students] Paul Austin, occurred almost to be able to Founder of Play Marin three years ago. vocalize how Since then, the they were Austins have made feeling.

And national headlines, also to help as well as been think about the focus of the how they can documentary film “Lowballed.” have more of a presence on campus.”

“We were upset, we were hurt and Logan Raven, a senior student at we felt disregarded as humans for the Tam and co-president of their Black amount of work that we’ve put in to try Student Union was called into the and make this American dream come room with Austin. true,” Austin said. “It’s the historic “We had a discussion on how we impact. It was another one of those felt and what actions we wanted to things that reminded me that I’m still take,” Raven said. “I actually never Black in America.” saw the stop-and-learn. I’m pretty sure Even though the Austins went almost all the kids of color at Tam did through their appraisal bias years ago, not see [it] because we were told to go prejudice and casual racism in Marin to [a different] room. I thought it was County are weird, because it felt segregated.”

Although Raven was interested in the lesson plan for the [stop-andlearn], he enjoyed having Austin as an outside resource.

“I really like Paul.

He has good intentions and a kind heart. And he went

By Emma Rosenberg

The cycle is still somewhat similar.

I always wish that kids wouldn’t have to deal with certain situations that I dealt with 30 years ago.

Photo courtesy of Paul Austin

PAUL AUSTIN (RIGHT) alongside Antwan Williams (left) shared their experiences and opened a forum for Black students at Tam to do the same.

to Tam, so he’s experienced racism,” Raven said.

Black students were invited to opt into this adjacent lesson with Austin, focusing on their experiences at Tam. “Once something happens, it is easy to do damage control. Historically, we know these situations are always there right below the surface just bubbling.

And it’s bound to come out at some point in time,” Austin said.

Austin reflected on his own high school memories as a Black student in Marin.

“I graduated from Tam in 1994.

The cycle is still somewhat similar. I always wish that kids w o u l d n ’t have to deal with certain situations that I dealt with 30 years ago,” Austin said.

“I feel privileged that the kids trust me enough to be there for them.”

As

for TUHSD action, Austin has some suggestions for dealing with difficult discussions around race.

“It would be great if the schools did front work, especially at the beginning, to set the tone and expectations for the rest of the year. It is important to have these heavy conversations early because then, hopefully, young people can start calling each other out,” Austin said. “There is still so much work that needs to be done. So much repair needs to be happening. And part of it is being able to have these conversations.” erosenberg@redwoodbark.org

Page 23 • Lifestyles

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Runner Lenny Maughan brings art, athletics together noticed how easy it was to use and how the GPS tracking could accurately If you’re a part of the running illustrate his runs. community, then you’ve probably “I started to notice that my runs heard of Strava. Strava is a GPS would look more like a loop. I thought, tracker app that can map where ‘Why don’t I design something you run, your distance traveled and beforehand, run it and make it look your pace. Lenny Maughan, a San like what I want it to look like rather Francisco marathon runner, uses than interpreting a vague shape as Strava to create intricate designs something?’ It’s fun and a creative through his runs. challenge. I just kept doing it and Maughan started running around getting more detailed,” Maughan said. eight years ago and first used Strava Maughan’s process of mapping to record data about his runs. He out his runs takes a lot of time and attention to detail. He isn’t able to do it easily without using additional resources and needs to be able to map out his runs in advance so he doesn’t take a wrong turn.

“I sketch my route out.

I can’t really do [my art] freehand, but if I do it in advance, I can plan out what routes I want to take. I take a paper map and a highlighter and I’ll think of a shape and outline it on the map. I have to think about where the streets are and where the trails are. It creates a challenge to draw something where I can only go where I can go. It’s like a puzzle,” Maughan said.

Marley Nacco, a junior on the cross country team, uses Strava to track her runs and also creates Strava art.

“I do [Strava art] in the Photo courtesy of Lenny Maughan moment because the only MAUGHAN’S COMPLETED RUN of Bigfoot took times I use it is when I’m nine hours and 50 minutes. running on the field or track,

bark

By Molly Gallagher

CONNECTING WITH THOUSANDS of runners, Maughan posts to his Strava profile.

which isn’t really pre-planned. It’s such a great way to get into running since it’s a lot more interesting and helps keep people more motivated,” said Nacco.

Another junior cross country runner, Courtney Kunz, has also used Strava art in the same way as Nacco.

“I’ve used it when going on small runs or shakeouts. I’ll run around to make certain shapes or write out certain words like my name,” Kunz said.

There have been over 3,000 pieces of art on the Strava site. Strava art is gaining traction, with so many users it’s becoming a great tool to make running fun. A few of Maughans most spectacular runs include a tiger, the Loch Ness monster and a pretzel.

Maughan’s audience connects with the Bay Area and San Francisco since many know the area where he runs.

His Instagram audience has been continuously gaining traction through articles and through Strava itself.

Many of his designs have significance that are relevant and meaningful to the local community, and are also inspiring to new runners and those who want to put a new twist on their running.

“I initially thought I would share this with my running buddies to get a laugh or a smile out of it. But I’ve noticed that other people started noticing my runs and telling me that they were fun and inspiring,” Maughan said.

Nacco is a follower of Maughan and is one such runner that is inspired by him. She recognizes the inspiration that he is bringing to runners and notices how he is making his designs bigger than running.

“I’ve noticed that he runs half marathons and 12 miles while making intricate designs with amazing detail. I would definitely love to do what he’s doing and just go out and run 12 miles while making art,” Nacco said. mgallagher@redwoodbark.org

Get to know your teachers with Photo Essay: Exploring this crossword the ‘Artist Voice’ class Photos By Elakai Anela

By Kate Harrison

ACROSS 3. This math teacher’s hairstyle is from the 50s.

5. This science teacher has traveled to more than 15 countries to go scuba diving.

6. This science teacher always wears a hat.

8. This history teacher wears themed shirts and a cheese hat.

11. This PE teacher can be seen riding around campus on an electric scooter.

12. This math teacher had a baby last year.

13. This English teacher has a Scottish husband.

DOWN

1. This history teacher has a huge pin collection.

2. This social studies teacher runs TUPE. 4. This English teacher has many tattoos.

7. ‘Survivor’ is one of this math teacher’s favorite shows.

9. This P.E. teacher partners with a program to take students to Latin America.

10. This Spanish teacher is from Uruguay.

Find the answers online at redwoodbark.org ‘Get schooled with this teacher crossword’

kharrison@redwoodbark.org

GATHERING STUDENTS AROUND the table, Lauren Bartone shows her students the guest’s artwork.

Senior Salvatore Fierro paints with acrylics following the project prompt: Illustrate an animal in a human environment. eanela@redwoodbark.org

The Eco-Connection Club raises funds

By Larkin Moffett The Eco-Connection Club was founded by juniors Taylor Bridges and Tessa DeLay this year to provide ecological support for different communities but also create meaningful relationships and connect with people. The club participates in multiple outreach programs and they are currently working with organizations such as the Regenerative Field Institute (RFI) and The Pulsera Project.

Todd Van Peursem, a Physical Education teacher, former Spanish teacher and adviser for the club, got involved in the club this year and hopes to help sharpen their plans as the club moves forward.

“I was approached by students who I deeply care about. I want to help them pursue their passions,” Van Peursem said.

“The [club’s] guiding principles are aligned with my visions and missions in life, so it’s a gift and a fortunate opportunity to be able to share time and space with motivated, dynamic [and] intellectual humans.”

In past years, Van Peursem has invited students to travel with him to various Latin American countries through RFI. The organization’s mission is to encourage environmental work such as farming and building through education and entrepreneurship along with ecologically regenerating deforested land through projects. “The Eco-Connection Club has ecological principles, [along with ideas] of sustainability and how to

regenerate this land so that it can be its healthiest version. When we do that, we reap all the benefits of regenerating the land of Mother Earth and we are regenerating our sense of humanity,” Van Peursem said.

The club focuses on reaching out to new communities but also aims to connect with students at Redwood. On Monday, Nov. 27, the club started selling bracelets in collaboration with The Pulsera Project.

The Pulsera Project is a non-profit organization based in Guatemala and Nicaragua that connects Central American artists to more than 3,600 schools around the United States. Because the markets for bracelets in these countries fail to live up to the popularity in the United States, sweatshop workers and upcoming artists ship their bracelets to the United States.

“The Pulsera Project was similar to the Eco-Connection Club when I read about their mission. This [organization] is a positive way for people from the United States to connect with communities in Central and South America,” Van Peursem said.

Students involved in The Pulsera Project order a certain amount of bracelets as a group and have two weeks to sell them to their communities. In the EcoConnection Club’s case, they have ordered 800 bracelets and have been selling them in the mornings and at lunch, as well as in front of grocery stores on the weekends.

Molly Goldstein, junior and an involved

member of the club, is passionate about the project and the process of selling bracelets to students around campus. “[The artists] don’t [usually] get all these opportunities, but The Pulsera Project provides them with youth shelter support loans and secondary education,” Goldstein said.

While the profits benefit the bracelet makers in Guatemala and Nicaragua, the connections customers can make with the artists also hold a strong value. Taylor Bridges, junior and co-president of the club comments on the value of knowing whose work one is purchasing.

“On each bracelet, there’s a tag that says the name of the person who made it and has a picture [of the artist] which makes it feel more personal, like you’re connected to them,” Bridges said.

The Eco-Connection Club hopes to continue its journey through partnerships with nonprofits and is always looking for new ways to bridge gaps between communities.

“We are hoping to work with other organizations like One Tam and some beach cleanups and and habitat restorations. We’re hoping to get the Redwood community involved,” Bridges said.

lmoffett@redwoodbark.org

Photo courtesy of Anna Krumweide