The Observer, Fall 2023 – Issue 8

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Traveling is good for the soul.

Scrooge faces the three ghosts of Christmas in CWU’s production of ‘A Christmas Carol.’

See Pg. 3

See Pg. 4

SPORTS

Students crowd the fourth annual Northwest Sports Management Summit.

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Vol. 126 NO. 8

November 29, 2023

WILDCATS ROAR INTO NCAA QUARTERFINALS: OVERCOMING ADVERSITY ONE VICTORY AT A TIME

Senior running back Cameron Daniels made a three-yard rush before Kennedy McGill made a 10-yard rush to set the Wildcats up at the BSU three-yard line during this game. (Photo courtesy of Jacob Thompson / Thompson Sports Media)

Charis Jones Sports Editor In a hard-fought triumph, the CWU football team has charged into the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II Football Quarterfinals. This marked a historic milestone not witnessed since 2009 for the Wildcats. As they prepare to face the top-ranked Colorado School of Mines (CSM) Orediggers in a showdown slated for Saturday, Dec. 2, at 11:00 a.m.

PST, the Wildcats are on the cusp of a rare opportunity they could claim the regional championship and propel themselves further into the national spotlight.

The team’s playoff journey began with an overtime clash on Saturday, Nov. 18, where CWU secured a 16-13 victory against the second-seeded Western Colorado University (WCU) Mountaineers.

Head Football Coach Chris Fisk lauded the team’s efforts, stating, “It feels amazing. We’ve been working so hard for this for so long.”

Reflecting on the game, Fisk attributed the team’s success to a blend of strategic prowess and unwavering hopefulness. Despite early challenges, the team maintained their focus, thrust forward by a steady defense and determination to overcome offensive setbacks.

At halftime, there were no grand speeches or magic formulas. Instead, the message was clear: “Press on, stop the mistakes and believe,” Fisk said.

Following this sentiment, the Wildcats emerged from the locker room with renewed energy, making stra-

tegic adjustments on both ends of the field. The result was a prominent turnaround that forced the game into overtime.

Redshirt junior wide receiver Darius Morrison echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s pride in fourth-quarter performances according to wildcatsports.com. Morrison delivered a standout performance during this matchup against the Mountaineers, accumulating 118 receiving yards and scoring two touchdowns.

“After our first win in Western Colorado, when DMO [Darius] caught the game-winning catch and we all stormed the field, the energy we had was unmatched,” recounted redshirt sophomore defensive lineman Kaanan Huffman. “After [that] amazing game … we got to the locker room and sprayed Coach Fisk with a bunch of water.”

The second round of the NCAA Division commenced on Saturday, Nov. 25, with a comeback victory against the Bemidji State University (BSU) Beavers. The Wildcats secured a 2117 win, which earned the team a spot in the regional final.

Fisk expressed his pride in the team’s resilience, saying, “I’m really proud of the way our guys got that [win] … what a great feeling, man, survive and advance, all the classic football sayings are there. I just couldn’t be prouder of this team.”

Despite a slow start to the game and the Beavers taking an early lead, CWU demonstrated their adaptability throughout the game. The Wildcats showcased their dedication, making crucial plays in both offense and de-

fense to secure the win.

Rookie quarterback Kennedy McGill’s strategic plays, along with notable performances from players such as senior running back Cameron Daniels with 76 rushing yards and junior wide receiver Darrien Gaines with 56 receiving yards, played a vital role in turning the tide of the game.

Fisk reflected on the challenging moments, stating, “Bemidji was moving up and down the field.” However, he expressed that it was inspiring to watch the team utilize the resilience they’ve had all year - not panicking or not stressing, just keeping their heads down and grinding.

CWU football’s unyielding belief has been their driving force and will set the stage for their clash with the CSM Orediggers, as highlighted

by Huffman.

“Our keyword for the rest of the playoffs is the word believe, no one thought [that] we’d make it this far except for us,” Huffman said. “Everyone sees us as an underdog, but for us this is a continuation of the belief we’ve had all along.”

Acknowledging the emotional significance of these playoff wins, Fisk nodded to the team’s collective spirit.

He emphasized his steadfast approach in steering the team forward, cautioning against complacency and urging his players to maintain a “business-like approach” as they pursue further postseason success.

Redshirt freshman quarterback Kennedy McGill finished the game vs. BSU connecting on 16 of 24 passes for 135 yards and securing one passing touchdown while leading CWU in rushing yards with 88 and one rushing touchdown. (Photo courtesy of Jacob Thompson / Thompson Sports Media)

In the earlier stages of the playoffs, senior running back Cameron Daniels posted 81 yards and marked a 17-yard rush as his longest of the game vs. WCU. (Photo courtesy of Jacob Thompson / Thompson Sports Media)

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November 29, 2023

Beyond Our Coverage Local

National

Global

An Ellensburg man who illegally had possession of firearms, after he discovered he accidentally shot himself in the leg with a pistol, according to The Daily Record. He has been sentenced to 18 months in prison due to two felony counts of unlawful possession.

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter was honored and remembered at her funeral service on Nov. 28 according to AP News. She passed away on Nov. 19 in her Georgia home, and the memorial was part of three days of events to honor the humanitarian’s life.

On the fifth day of the ceasefire in Gaza Israel and Hamas exchanged 42 hostages, 12 Israeli and 30 Palestinian, according to AP News. Mediators from Qatar have been attempting to extend the length of the ceasefire. The amount of hostages exchanged since the ceasefire is reported to be at least over 70.

A new geothermal electricity began to power Google’s data server centers and supply power to the Nevada power grid on Nov. 28 according to AP News. This new geothermal pla nt is supply carbon free power, and the CEO of the project said he hopes to increase the country’s geothermal presence in the future.

A Bellingham man who fled from police caused a wrong-way collision on I-90 driving over 100 mph. The man will be arraigned this week in Kittitas according to The Daily Record.

A 21-year-old man has a warrant issued for his arrest after allegedly forging a CWU student’s name on a reimbursement check intended for the student, according to the Daily Record. After the student reported the theft in November 2022, police contacted US Bank and found that the student’s forged signature was on the back of the check.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has officially stopped the use of spring loaded cyanide bombs that were formerly used in order to kill coyotes and other livestock predators, according to AP News. The BLM cited safety concerns as the reason, saying that these traps have killed numerous pets and non predators.

41 Indian construction workers were finally freed from a collapsed tunnel after being trapped for 17 days on Nov. 28, according to AP News. The construction workers were provided with food, water and oxygen through pipes during the crisis and were immediately seen by physicians after being rescued.

A government ordered inquiry took place on Nov. 28 that found serious oversight in British hospitals where a worker had sex with over 100 corpses within 15 years according to AP News. The hospital electrician’s actions were uncovered when his home was investigated in 2020 when he was implicating in the killing of two women and police found photos of his necrophiliac tendencies on his computer.

(Photo by Yohanes Goodell)

Letter from the Editor Winter’s coming, It’s a good time to be proud of the crimson and black as the Wildcats qualify for the football championships.

It’s officially the holiday season, so regardless of what you celebrate happy holidays, and if you don’t celebrate something this winter season, hope you enjoy the snow. Going from one family oriented holiday to the next, a word of advise; take care of yourself. Family can be hard at the best of times so it’s important to look after yourself during these times This officially marks my last issue with the Observer as a staff member and the Lead Editor. I’ve worked here for two years, and while it had its ups and downs I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I am honored and proud to pass the reins onto the new team composed of those I’ve worked with for a while.

If there’s anything that I’ve been reminded recently it’s to always stand up for the things that you believe in. You can’t guarantee anyone else will, so if something is important to you then you need to show up. Protect your devotion.

Feeling jolly, Morgana

Morgana’s Magical Prediction: You will be confronted by an ego in the near future.

Spot something wrong in the paper? Let us know.

Staff Lead Editor

Morgana Carroll

Online Editor Emily LaFave

Copy Desk Lead / Opinion Editor Megan Foster

Faculty Adviser/ Editorial Consultant Francesco Somaini

Scene Editor Isaac Hinson

Photo Editor

Yohanes Goodell

Graphic Designer Brandon Davis

Sports Editor Charis Jones

News Editors Megan Rogers

Assistant Graphic Designer

Staff Reporters Coal Butler Maria Mann Isaac Dobmeier Lily Goold

Jennifer Branch

Editorial Policy: The Observer is a public forum for student expression, in which student editors make policy and content decisions. The mission of The Observer is two-fold: to serve Central Washington University as a newspaper and to provide training for students who are seeking a career in journalism. The Observer seeks to provide complete, accurate, dependable information to the campus and community; to provide a public forum for the free debate of issues, ideas and problems facing the community at large; and to be the best source of information, education and entertainment news. As a training program, The Observer is the practical application of the theories and principles of journalism. It teaches students to analyze and communicate information that is vital to the decision making of the community at large. It provides a forum for students to learn the ethics, values and skills needed to succeed in their chosen career. If you have questions or concerns, email us at cwuobserver@gmail.com.

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November 29, 2023

CWU Theatre presents: Maria Mann Staf Reporter CWU’s “A Christmas Carol” had its opening night Friday, Nov. 17 to a somewhat sparse but enthusiastic audience. The cast members set the scene by narrating lines from “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens, adapted by Lavina Jadhwani.

Ebenezer Scrooge, played by fourth year musical theater major Vallie, limped onto stage with a cane. His receding gray hair was covered by a top hat. A deep frown contorted his face as he glared disapprovingly over his glasses.

“I love doing exaggerated stage makeup so it takes me about 23 minutes to do the makeup and just following my own wrinkles that are forming,” Vallie said. “I was actually able to make a few of my own [costume] pieces, which was really nice so I can make sure they’re really fitted to myself.”

According to Vallie, embodying the role of Scrooge meant thinking about how Scrooge’s movements would

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‘A Christmas Carol’

be affected by the fact that he’d spent his whole life hunched over a table, counting money.

“The costumes and hair are period inspired while still being contemporary,” Johnna, who played Mrs. Cratchit, said. Johnna is a theater studies major and is finishing up her last quarter to graduate this fall.

Johnna got into character by delving into Mrs. Cratchit’s difficult life circumstances and identifying her deepest desire, which was for her family to be taken care of.

“What I loved most about playing Mrs. Cratchit was the amount of emotional range the character gave me to play with,” Johnna said. “She is an incredibly strong character, and I feel her character and importance to the story tends to be overlooked. That’s why I love how this adaptation gave her such a strong voice.”

In the case of Scrooge, Vallie enjoyed getting to play such a transformative character. The crotchety old man

does not just magically get better. He is inspired to become a happier, more charitable man after watching his life pass before his eyes. “[Scrooge’s] life was marred by tragedy,” Vallie said.

“Whether from his sister passing on, his poor relationship with his father. He had no stability in his life and the only type he found was with money and that cost him the only joy he ever found in his ex-fiancee Belle. I think it’s just a constant load of tragedy just piled up and he locked his heart away.”

Mrs. Cratchit suffered many hardships of her own, but responded to them very differently than Scrooge.

“I think Mrs. Cratchit and Scrooge are two sides to the same coin,” Johnna said.

“Both characters have suffered great loss, and came from humble beginnings, but what made Mrs. Cratchit

different is her ability to love something more than herself. Even with the loss of her son she stood strong because she is the pillar that holds her family together. It is my opinion that Mrs. Cratchit is a representation of what Scrooge could have been if he would have let love in instead of running away from it.”

Johnna appreciated the time that was taken to play around with their characters during rehearsals because it led to many beautiful moments and made the process more collaborative.

“We had a really wonderful director, Kathryn Stahl and it made for a very open, comfortable and at times fun rehearsal period… all seriousness would leave our bodies and we

couldn’t help but keep laughing and it made for a very healthy and exciting rehearsal room,” Vallie said.

Stahl hopes that the audience spreads their joy to help lift the spirits of those around them this holiday season.

“At its root this is a ghost play, yet we can spend time among our spirits and leave not feeling haunted and weighed down by our fear, our loss, our grief, our shadows; we can breathe and help our bodies be open to receive warmth & connection,” Stahl said in the director’s note of the opening night.

Program for ‘A Christmas Carol.’

(Photo by Maria Mann)

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Embarking on the infinite:

THE

a j o u r n ey o f s e l f- re f l e c t i o n

Charis Jones Columnist In the quiet routine of our everyday lives, we find solace in the known, the predictable. But what if, just beyond the threshold of familiarity, there exists a realm where personal growth is not a choice, but a natural consequence? What if the key to unlocking your fullest potential lies not in the comfort of routine, but in the uncharted territories that stretch beyond the horizon?

Mark Twain once said, “travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” As I reflect on these words amidst the echoes of my own journeys, I find a profound truth - that in the rhythm of travel, our hearts learn to dance to a broader, more inclusive beat.

My personal journey of self-discovery has been etched across

the globe, each stamp in my passport marking a new chapter. From the enchanting fjords of Norway, where nature whispers its timeless

secrets, to the vibrant tulip-lined streets of Amsterdam, where every canal holds the reflections of centuries past;, my travels have been a kaleidoscope of exploration.

Japan, with its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, revealed to me the delicate dance between honoring the past and embracing the future. Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and Mexico’s sun-soaked beaches became canvases where I painted memories of connection and serenity.

But personal growth isn’t confined to the pages of a passport. It also unfolds in the familiar landscapes of home, from the towering skyscrapers of New York City, where ambition and opportunity collide, to the historic monuments of Washington D.C., where the echoes of the past reverberate in the present. The deserts of Arizona taught me the power of endurance under the relentless sun while the southern charm of South Carolina and Tennessee revealed the warmth of human connection.

The expansiveness of self-enrichment knows no state lines. In the vastness of Texas, I discovered the courage to dream as big as the Lone Star State itself. The rolling hills of North Carolina whispered tales of resilience and transformation while the majestic mountains of Colorado inspired a sense of awe and humility.

From the sunny shores of Florida to the rugged coasts of California, the diverse landscapes of the U.S. mirror the multifaceted nature of personal development. The cool embrace of Minnesota’s winters taught me patience while the vibrant city life of San Francisco encouraged adaptability in the face of constant change.

While my passport might just look like a collection of visas and entry stamps,; it’s a testament to the rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped my journey.

As the pages turn, I am reminded that the path toward growth is, in essence, a commitment to exploration, an ongoing dialogue with the world and with oneself.

So, whether under the Northern Lights or beneath the neon glow of the Las Vegas skyline, I’ve come to embrace the idea that personal growth is not confined to a specific location or culture. It transcends borders and weaves itself into the fabric of our journey, crafting a narrative of

heart beat to the inclusive and diverse melody that echoes through each chapter of exploration, connecting us all in the grand symphony of both self-discovery and shared humanity.

resilience, adaptability, and the beauty found in embracing the unknown.

As the dance of travel carries me forward, I extend an open invitation: join me in this dance where the steps may be uncertain, but the rewards are truly immeasurable. Let your

(Photos by Charis Jones) @CWUObserver

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November 29 , 2023

On the television side, “Hijack” is one of my favorite shows of the year. It’s incredibly simple in its premise and I mean that as an absolute complement. Idris Elba plays a fairly normal man who is stuck on a plane in the middle of a hijacking, and he must use his negotiating skills to get everyone home safe and sound.

Elba is fantastic. He is incredibly charismatic in a way that reminds me of Harrison Ford in the 1990s.

The simple premise and short episode count makes this incredibly bingeable, and the show is enthralling in a way th at is sure to capture the attention of everyone. While it loses the plot a little bit towards the end, you’ll be so bought in by that point that it won’t even matter.

‘The Holdovers’

Currently in theaters and available to rent or buy on Amazon The newest feature from Alexander Payne, acclaimed director of classics like “Election” and “Nebraska,” “The Holdovers” is my number one recommendation for the season. “The Holdovers” follows a professor at a New England boarding school who has been assigned to watch over the small collection of students who have nowhere to go for the holidays.

Paul Giamatti is immersed in his role as professor Paul Hunham, a bitter but ultimately warm-hearted man whose shield is taken down as the film goes on. That shield is lowered by the presence of Angus Tully, one of his students who gets left with him on short notice. Tully is played by Dominic Sessa in his first ever acting credit, which given how stellar he is in the film is frankly impossible to believe.

“The Holdovers” is presented in a way that intends to mimic holiday classics from the 1970s, which only adds to the warm and cozy feeling that the film gives you as you watch it. If you’re looking for something to get you in the Christmas mood, that is also funny and can really tug at your heartstrings, I can’t recommend “The Holdovers” enough.

Streaming on AppleTV+

‘Napoleon’

Currently available to rent or buy on Amazon My current choice for Best Picture, “Oppenheimer” is finally available to watch at home. While the 4K disc and the Blu-ray are pretty much sold out everywhere right now, you can still purchase it digitally. Although, the digital edition doesn’t contain the expanded IMAX ratio, which might only matter to sickos like myself, but do with that what you will.

There’s not much to say about “Oppenheimer” that hasn’t already been said. It’s one of the best movies of this century, boasts one of the best ensembles of the century and is absolutely electric from beginning to end. If you need to kill an afternoon over break, you could do much, much worse than getting together again with the Los Alamos crew.

‘Home Alone’

Currently in theaters Looking for something on the more big and theatrical side? Maybe something to see with your dad?

“Napoleon” should do the trick.

The newest film from cinematic legend Ridley Scott (director of “Alien,” “Blade Runner” and many, many more) “Napoleon” is the story of the former French commander and emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played tremendously

by Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix.

While “Napoleon” services fantastic battle sequences, gorgeous visuals and frankly one of the funniest scripts of the year, it balances that all out with the core of the story being Napoleon’s cat and mouse psycho-sexual romance with the Empress Josephine, played by Vanessa Kirby. Kirby absolutely steals the show as Josephine, she is completely riveting on-screen and controls both the movie and Napoleon himself like puppets on a string.

Scott has already confirmed he is working on a four-hour cut of the film that will eventually be released on AppleTV+, and while it might be hard to muster up the energy (and money) to go see a presumptively incomplete film in theaters, I think it is more than worth it. The theater I saw it at was packed and everyone had a great time.

Currently available to stream on Disney+ No winter break in my home is complete without at least one viewing of “Home Alone.” Arguably the quintessential Christmas movie of the 1990s, “Home Alone” captures the Christmas spirit in spades. The importance of family, how grim the holidays can be without them and how healing rekindling with people from your past can be.

Macaulay Culkin is phenomenal in a way few child actors have ever achieved. He’s equally hilarious as he is earnest. Katherine O’Hara is great in arguably the most overlooked role of the movie despite being maybe the most key character as Kevin’s mother. It is also just great that Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern decided to lend their talents to a movie like this. They are both throwing 150 miles per hour here as borderline ethical burglars.

Plus, the John Williams score is pure magic.

‘THE HOLDOVERS’

We’ve finally reached the end of fall quarter, or at least we are real close. Personally, I am more than ready to finish up the work I have left to do and then book it back home and enjoy the holidays with my family. But when we do get home, and the day is nearing its end and the family is sitting around the TV… how do you choose what to watch? There are so many people to please, each person with their own unique tastes. Or even if you’re on your own, there are so many options, how do you choose?

I’m here to help. I’ve compiled a collection of different movies, TV shows and something else that I think will be hits amongst the whole family.

‘Oppenheimer’

Dominic Sessa and Paul Giamatti (Photo courtesy Miramax)

‘HIJACK’

‘Hijack’

‘Hijack’ debuted this summer on AppleTV+ (Photo courtesy Apple)

‘OPPENHEIMER’

Isaac Hinson Columnist

‘’Oppenheimer’ is projected to net Cillian Murphy his first Oscar win (Photo courtesy Universal Pictures)

‘NAPOLEON’

OPINION SECTION

What to watch over the break

Joaquin Phoenix as Naopelon Bonaparte (Photo courtesy Apple)

‘HOME ALONE’

BSERVED

Daniel Stern and Joe Pesci as the Wet Bandits (Photo courtesy Twentieth Century Studios)

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SPORTS

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November 29, 2023

Northwest Sports Management Summit: curiosity answered for CWU students Lily Goold Staff Reporter Excitement and interest were generated as the fourth annual Northwest Sports Management Summit kicked off in the newly renovated Nicholson Pavilion on Thursday, Nov. 6. Hosted by the Northwest Center for Sport (NWCS), the event gathered industry professionals and featured engaging discussions around the theme “It’s Game Time; Managing A Successful Gameday,” according to cwu.edu.

This event was designed to cater to individuals who aspire to become sport management professionals and those who are keen on understanding the inner workings of sport and athletic organizations.

Key aspects discussed by professionals on the panel included insights about the transferability of skills learned in college, the importance of preparation and how planning is essential for a triumphant game day. The panelists emphasized that these skills are all part of the journey towards success.

Among the panel members was CWU alumnus Nolan Teasley, who currently serves as the assistant general manag-

er for the Seattle Seahawks and was the keynote speaker of the event.

Teasley shared how he started as a Wildcat and now holds a pivotal role with the Seahawks. As he shared his experiences, he expressed gratitude for the chance to return to CWU and visit “a place that has given me so much,” Teasley said.

Teasley highlighted the significance of preparation in his journey and properly suiting oneself for their intended goals.

When breaking down the answer to how he got to where he is today, Teasley shared that his prime factors were, “a lot of hard work, dedication and an incredible amount of support from friends and family.”

Each speaker at the event spoke on the various elements that they contribute going into a game day operation.

Some of these components were mentioned by Vice President of Ticket Sales and Service for the Seattle Sounders FC, Frank Moreno.

“Everything that you’re learning now will be translatable to your future role, remember those skills and learn from them,” Moreno said. “It’s going to become really handy if you’re able to successfully

apply it in your next career.”

Following Moreno was the Recreation Manager at J.W. Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa, Savannah Scriven, who aimed to shed some light on the business side of things.

“Pre-programming really is essential to the operational function of the business and the success,” Scriven said.

In terms of time management skills, she emphasized the importance of “getting all the hard stuff out of the way first,” Scriven said.

Financial success is also a huge part of any business and any career, according to Account Executive/Group Events at Seattle Mariners, Alexa Olague.

Explaining what operations she employs to maintain this level of prosperity, “if there’s no plan in place, it’s not going to work,” Olague said. “[It’s important to be] constantly working with operational teams.”

The summit sought to provide an opportunity for CWU students to connect with their future paths. The panel speakers offered relevant advice on how students can kick-start their careers, which included networking, reaching out now and building your brand.

The event was a successful endeavor, according to the Program Director for the undergraduate Sport Management program, Dr. Sean Dahlin. All different perspectives were garnered about what it means when it comes to preparing for game day.

Dahlin also serves as CWU’s director of the organization that hosted the summit, the NWCS. He expressed enthusiasm when reflecting on the array of people that the summit brought to campus.

“That’s the fun part for me,” Dahlin said.”I get to see alumni that come back and I’ve taught those who are now working in the sports industry and doing awesome.”

Head Football Coach Chris Fisk (left) standing with Assistant General Manager for the Seattle Seahawks, Nolan Teasley (right).

(Photo courtesy of Jacob Thompson / Thompson Sports Media)

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EVENTS

Page 07

November 29, 2023

Wildcat Words How do you like to unwind after a long day?

S Moss Scheduling Coordinator at the Scheduling Center

“I have a cat who is my favorite critter in the world so on days that it’s warm enough I take her out for a little walk.”

Garrett Dody

Alonzo Avila

Mailk Cantú

Jr. Elementary Ed

Jr. Theater Performance

“Playing video games, it’s kind of my go-to downtime activity. I’ve been playing a lot of Baldur’s Gate 3 right now.”

“I love to take a long hot shower!”

Lecturer and Sommelier

Kristine Miller is CWU alumna and lecturer in wine studies and hospitality.

Miller has been working with the university since 2019, but her love for hospitality started during her highschool years. Miller’s personal and professional adventures fueled her passion and guided her expertise in the field; helping her to become a passionate sommelier and hospitality advocate.

Q&A compiled by Megan Foster

A &A Q Q&

Kristine Miller (Photo courtesy of Kristine Miller)

What got you interested in wine studies and hospitality?

I fell in love with hospitality working in restaurants in my hometown during high school. This love of hospitality led me to pursue a College Program internship at Walt Disney World when I was completing my undergraduate degrees at Central. I was hooked! After graduating I returned to Disney to begin my career. It was here that my wine journey began, with a team of passionate sommeliers at Walt Disney World encouraging me and supporting me until the “aha” moment when I could finally smell the subtle notes of gooseberry, lime, and mineral in a glass of South African Sauvignon Blanc. From there I went on to develop extensive fine wine experience, serving as a Guest Service Manager at Disney’s AAA five diamond, Mobile five-star restaurant Victoria and Albert’s and earning my Introductory Sommelier Certificate from the Master Court of Sommeliers. And things just took off from there!

Is there a wine you would recommend to our readers who may be just delving into the world of spirits and wine?

This is a great question! To begin, there are five key wine characteristics in wine: tannin, acidity, sweetness, alcohol, and body. When I am introducing people to wine, I always ensure that I pour wines that are very well balanced across these characteristics (so not too tannin, not too high in alcohol, etc.). I focus on wines that tend to be well-balanced and approachable.

Sr. Violin Performance

“I like to listen to Ye’s album, “Donda,” after a long day!”

“After a long day I like to read and play Super Mario on my switch. I have a lot of classes for my performances so once I’m home I like to keep school work away from my apartment.”

Weekly Events 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. - Start of 46th Annual Ware Fair: SURC 1 to 4 p.m. - Free Drug Takeback Event: McIntyre parking lot 6 to 8 p.m. - Jazz Combo Concerts: McIntyre Music Building Recital Hall 7 to 9 p.m. - CWU Libraries presents Coffee with the Cops: Brooks Library 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. - 46th Annual Ware Fair: SURC 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. - CWU’s production of “A Christmas Carol”

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - End of 46th Annual Ware Fair: SURC 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. - CWU’s production of “A Christmas Carol”

7:30 to 9:30 p.m. - End of CWU’s production of “A Christmas Carol:” 3 to 5 p.m. - CWU Libraries presents Paws & Relax Noon to 4 p.m. - Warm up for Finals 3 to 4 p.m. - THRIVE & Q*FAM - FInals Study and Destress: SURC 100C 5 to 9:30 p.m. - Monday Movie Madness - “Elf”: SURC 5 to 7 p.m. - 210 CWU Library presents Finals Week - Music and Crafts: Library room 401

7 to 8 p.m. - Finals Week - Waffle Night: Library room 203

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SAT

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SUN

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MON

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TUES 6 to 7 p.m. - Finals Week - Friends of the Brooks Library Pizza Feed: Library room 203

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WED Oscar the Observant.

Design by Brittany Cinderella

What are your top tips for food and wine pairing?

My favorite tip is “what grows together goes together”. This technique refers to the idea that foods and wines that originate from the same geographical region often pair well together. I have spent a good amount of time traveling and living abroad and one of the best parts of traveling is trying the local food and wine. Whether it is a Malbec from Mendoza paired with an Argentine Asado, Chevre with Sancerre, Tajarin Pasta with a glass of Barolo or Schäuferla with Franconian Spätburgunder my most memorable meals are always a result of this pairing principle!

Are there any local spots you would recommend to readers for a good wine selection or for wine tasting?

Absolutely! I love Stems in Yakima for Washington Wines. Gard Vintners and Fortuity Cellars right here in Ellensburg are amazing and feature a wonderful selection so there is sure to be something for every palate. When I venture to the West Side, I head to Caviste near the Amazon campus for my French Wine fix and Esquin in SODO to shop the world. And of course, as I am frequently out tasting I pick up bottles as I am out at Washington wineries from Chelan to Walla Walla.

Carmella

Soph. Business Marketing

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Page 08

HEALTH CARE YOU DESERVE.

November 29, 2023