Cal Poly Humboldt’s Student-Run Bilingual Newspaper
DRAG EN ESPAÑOL
Break down: Time, Place & Manner policy p.03
El Centro coordinator: Brenda Perez p.04
New off-campus housing update p.05
FREE | GRATIS
octubre 2024
Vol. 23 Edición 2
La Ciendita Latine boutique p.14
Nuevo restaurante de ramen p. 16
Opinión: ¿Vas a votar? p. 23
LIFE & ARTS NEWS
ESPAÑOL
04 El Centro Contrata Una Nueva Coordinadora Permanente
06 El Leñador gives a journalism workshop at the University of Guanajuato
New Engineering Professor
Stories from Oaxaca to Humboldt 20 Poem: Mi Mundo Café
Biwole
09 ¿Sabes por qué estás votando?
11 Entrevista de El Leñador con el Presidente Interino Michael E. Spagna
13 Drag en Español 14 La Ciendita
16 Susukino Ramen Bar abre en Arcata
19 Historias indígenas bilingües de Oaxaca a Humboldt
El Leñador is an English and Spanish newspaper produced by Cal Poly Humboldt students. Our staff cover and provide news to Latinx and other diverse communities on campus and in Humboldt County. We are committed to providing relevant news and expanding the representations and stories told about people of color and other marginalized groups. Our work helps create more social, political and cultural diversity in local media.
El Leñador es un periódico en español e inglés producido por estudiantes de Cal Poly Humboldt. Nuestro personal cubre y provee noticias a la comunidad Latine y otras comunidades diversas en el campus y en el condado de Humboldt. Estamos comprometidos a brindar noticias actuales y ampliar la representación y las historias que son contadas sobre la gente de color y otros grupos marginados. Nuestros esfuerzos ayudan a crear una diversa presencia social, política y cultural en los medios locales.
Editor in Chief
Maryanne Casas-Perez
Spanish Editor
Maria Hernandez Coosemans
Managing Editor
Ben Hernandez
News Editor
Noelle Doblado
Copy Editor
Vanessa Saltos
Layout/Design
Jordan Pangelinan
Ben Hernandez
Maryanne Casas-Perez Noelle Doblado
Writers/Contributors
Noelle Doblado
Leslie Ortega
Ryndi Greenwell
Ben Hernandez
Kimberly Alexsandra Madrigal
Jordan Pangelinan
Joahnna Tool
Alba Galvan
Guillermo Noe Salazar
Vanessa Saltos
Translators
Clari Gomez
Isaac Weadon
Marisabel Perez Moreno
Yocelin Rios
Isabella Garcia
Lila Salinas
Georgina-Munoz Villanueva
Desiree Osornio
Distribution
Guillermo Noe Salazar
Faculty Advisor
Andrea Juarez
Front Cover/Primera Página: photo by Noelle Doblado foto por Noelle Doblado
To advertise with us, email ellenador.ads@gmail.com
El Leñador staff can be reached at el-lenador@humboldt.edu
CSU Systemwide Time, Place and Manner policy
Student and faculty concerns on possible effects to campus activism at Cal Poly Humboldt
by Maryanne Casas-Perez
The new system wide Time, Place and Manner policy has raised many concerns from both students and faculty regarding the effects it will have on campus free speech.
“Historically we had our own campus TPM, which was more responsive to our context and histories,” said Enoch Hale, Director for Teaching and Learning at Cal Poly Humboldt.
Old Time, Place and Manner
This previous policy is just over 6,300 words and did not include regulations about occupations, encampments, unauthorized structures, concealing identity with face masks and vandalism. The old TPM focused on expression of free speech, commercial activity and use of university property.
New Systemwide Time, Place and Manner Policy
The new system wide policy is close to 8,000 words and it has all previous policies regarding encampments, vandalism, masks, barriers, occupation and restrictions into one “centralized” website. Students are directed to read the policy when they have questions or to speak to the Dean of Students Office first when trying to reserve the University Quad for free speech events.
Two campus groups related to free speech have been made as part of Cal Poly Humboldt’s implementation of the new TPM policy. The Community Engagement Team (CET) and The Free Speech Response Team (FSRT) are both composed of faculty and staff. Their function is to observe the students during their gatherings and de-escalate “emotionally charged” situations such as protests. The FSRT is responsible for implementing and reinforcing the TPM.
Vice President of Enrollment and Student Success, Dr. Chrissy Holliday is one of the many administrators working to address the CSU requirements related to the TPM policy at Cal Poly Humboldt.
“CET will be trained in de-escalation techniques, as well as empathy and engagement skills to navigate emotionally-charged moments.They will be present during free speech activity on campus to help determine when and if education around TPM is needed,” Holliday said.
CET members will attend future protests, rallies and other activities being held on campus while also serving as a consultative group to the Free Speech Response Team. Members of CET will share their insight of campus concerns they have about the implementation of the new TPM policy
“The CET was developed as a direct result of feedback from faculty, staff and students after the protests last spring, and is one of the major changes we are making to how we respond to free speech activities on our campus,” Holliday said.
FSRT is made up of approximately 15 people and the CET has 24 people. Hale and Holliday are both members of the Free Speech Response Team. Hale also serves on the CET.
In addition to the CET, a broader group unofficially named “The Free Speech Committee” began in the summer as requested by CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia.
Faculty and student concerns
Andrea Delgado is a professor in the English Department at CPH and is a member of the CET. Delgado is concerned about the language in the new TPM policy regarding academic freedom in classrooms and what professors can lecture on.
“I will say, however, that what is very concerning to me is the line where faculty are told ‘Instructional faculty are entitled to academic freedom in the classroom in discussing their subject, but they should be careful not to introduce into their teaching controversial matter which has no relation to their subject.’ Who decides which topics are unrelated? Who decides what is controversial? This is highly problematic,” Delgado said in an email.
Rick Toledo is a student activist and registered legal observer with the National Lawyers Guild. He is concerned that this system wide policy might force students to choose between silencing their voice and openly breaking the policy.
Toledo recalls that when he was in his disciplinary hearing back in March he was told that the university was now enforcing TPM when they hadn’t before because of the Palestine situation. Toledo said that the admin was afraid of being sued by Zionists for letting Pro-Palestine
students protest on campus. However, this statement has not been confirmed or denied by the administration.
“Any action that we can take that truly disrupts power and that gives us some kind of leverage against them has been stripped away by this,” Toledo said. “So now we have to get extremely creative to find ways that we can navigate it or we are forced to openly break the policy and face severe oppression.”
Mary Mangubat, another student activist that was previously disciplined by the old TPM, finds the extension of amplified voice to be interesting. She believes that applications for event reservations won't automatically be denied now due to the use of amplified voices, making it easier for students. However, Mangubat wonders how administration will determine what events are disruptive, to her it’s too subjective.
“As students, your instant reaction is to feel cautious around faculty and staff but then at the same time there’s this nuance that faculty and staff who are volunteering to be in these roles because they do want to protect students,” Mangubat said.
Magubat feels that administrators are unsure of how they are really going to handle themselves next time there is a protest. She also feels that it's unfair asking students to be part of the CET because it could cause them to become a target of student criticism.
CFA’s stance on the Interim Systemwide TPM policy
Tony Silvaggio is the new president of the California Faculty Association Humboldt Chapter. Silvaggio expressed that this new policy is a “departure from past practices, it’s far more restrictive.” He feels that a lot of the activism previously done by the CFA is being limited and the wording of the TPM is so vague it could possibly be discriminatory when determining what free speech activities are allowed on campus.
“We need to remember our function is education not surveillance,” Silvaggio said.
One of Silvaggio’s concerns is that some staff on the FSRT diminished their credibility due to their decisions to immediately call police during last semester's
pro-Palestine protest which resulted in direct physical harm to students.
“It is highly problematic that Mark Johnson (Chief of Staff) is now given the responsibility to sit on this protest response team,” Silvaggio said.
The CFA has filed a lawsuit against the CSU claiming that the directive given by the chancellor violates the Higher Education Employer-Employee Act HEERA and PERB.
Hale explained that although there are concerns, at the end of the day this was a policy that had to be implemented. The goal is to have all students, faculty and staff follow this policy.
CFA is currently at the "meet and confer" stage with the CSU regarding the systemwide TPM to determine if they can come to a solution.
Administration perspectives
In a previous interview with El Leñador, Interim President Micheal E. Spagna said, “Freedom of expression, however, is not an absolute right.” He explained that freedom of speech on campus is a right but expression is what the TPM policy limits.
“More than anything, it is important to know that TPM is about protecting free speech rights for all on our campus, and ensuring that those rights can be exercised in a manner that also protects the educational mission of Cal Poly Humboldt and the safety of our campus community,” Holliday said.
Students are still confused by the legal jargon of the TPM or don’t even know what this policy is. For the students and faculty who value activism on campus this continues to be a confusing and frustrating policy with no solution.
“Sure you can say that these policies were already there but that doesn’t deny the fact that on the ethical scale and just more on a practical scale you are dealing with people…in practice you are impacting students, you are impacting people,” Mangubat said.
A TPM session is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 3, from 4-5:30 p.m. in the Great Hall. Holliday shared that the session will include a presentation, reflection, questions and input on the TPM policy.
The search is over, Cal Poly Humboldt's El Centro hires new coordinator
by Maryanne Casas-Perez
After more than a year-long search for a permanent coordinator, El Centro has hired Brenda Perez. She is expected to start by mid-Oct.
Perez is coming from Centro del Pueblo (CdP), an organization that focuses on immigrants and the Latine community to promote awareness of their rights and create a safe space in Humboldt.
“I am excited to build meaningful connections with students, create a supportive and inclusive environment, and develop programs that celebrate and uplift Latinx culture and identity on campus,” Perez said.
She has collaborated with El Centro in the past and applied to be the permanent coordinator because she wants to bring her passion to campus and inspire Latine students.
Student and staff at El Centro on campus, Jesse Beacham Grijalva Prieto is looking forward to working with Perez because they know each other from Centro del Pueblo. Beacham Grijalva Prieto describes Perez as a “go-getter” and believes that a lot more work will get done once Brenda starts her position as the new coordinator.
Perez will continue to work at CdP, as both programs have an interest in uplifting the Latine community in Humboldt. Perez is currently working on planning events for Hispanic Heritage month.
You can check out upcoming and future events on both Instagrams: @elcentrohumboldt @centrodelpueblo
La búsqueda ha terminado, El Centro contrata una nueva coordinadora permanente
Después de buscar una nueva coordinadora permanente por más de un año, El Centro ha contratado a Brenda Perez. Se espera que comience a partir de mediados del mes de octubre.
Perez viene del Centro del Pueblo (Cdp), una organización que se enfoca en los inmigrantes y la comunidad Latine para promover la concientización sobre sus derechos y crear un espacio seguro en el condado de Humboldt.
“Estoy emocionada de crear conexiones significativas con estudiantes, crear un ambiente de apoyo e inclusión, y desarrollar programas que celebran y enaltezcan la cultura y la identidad Latinx en el campus”, dijo Perez.
Ella ha colaborado con El Centro anteriormente y decidió postularse para ser la coordinadora permanente porque quiere traer su pasión al campus e inspirar a los estudiantes Latine.
Jesse Beacham Grijalva Prieto, estudiante y miembro del personal de El Centro, espera con ansias trabajar con Perez porque se conocen de Centro del Pueblo. Beacham Grijalva Prieto, describe a Perez como una persona proactiva y cree que se logrará más trabajo una vez que Brenda comience en su puesto como la nueva coordinadora. Perez continuará trabajando en el CdP, ya que ambos programas tienen un interés común en apoyar a la comunidad Latine en Humboldt. Actualmente, Perez está trabajando en la planificación de eventos para el mes de la Herencia Hispana. Pueden consultar los próximos eventos en Instagram: @elcentrohumboldt @centrodelpueblo
Escrito Maryanne Casas-Perez traducido por Marisabel Perez Moreno
Brenda Pérez en Jardín Santurio en Arcata disfrutando del día soleado. Foto por Maryanne Casas-Perez
Brenda Perez at Jardin Santurio in Arcata enjoying the sunny day. Photo by Maryanne Casas-Perez
New ‘off campus’ apartments to open Fall 2025
Here are the answers to your burning questions
by Vanessa Saltos
It has been over a year since Cal Poly Humboldt broke ground on the largest student housing project in University history. The $200 million student housing project is located near the intersection of St. Louis Rd and Hwy 101, expected to house a total of 964 students.
University-owned student housing will be increased by nearly 50% with the addition of this 12.8 acre space. Currently the campus houses 1,784 students.
When is the completion date?
Associate Vice President of Facilities Management Mike Fisher said there will be an east and west building. The east is expected to be finished by June 2025 for about 550 students to move into come August 2025. Around December 2025 the west will be completed. Are these apartments for upperclassmen only?
“The new Residence Hall is open to transfers, graduate students, and returning students – with a focus on upper-division,” said Donyet King, Senior Director for Housing & Residence Life in an email.
Will this housing be more expensive than the current on-campus housing?
Costs for the new residence hall will be at the same cost as the College Creek apartments, said King.
Here are the room only cost breakdown currently for College Creek:
- Double Room - $7,728
- Bunk Bed Double Room $7,444
- Single Room - $9,576
In each apartment how many students will be housed?
There will be different variations of apartment styles. A six resident apartment will have three bedrooms in which all rooms are doubles. Four resident apartments will be either a two bedroom double or four single bedrooms.
What amenities will be inside the apartments?
A full kitchen, a refrigerator, four burner stove, living room and restrooms will be included.
“And the unique part about the restrooms is that the toilet and shower will be behind a door, and separate from the sinks,” Fisher said. Will they be compliant with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) ?
Fisher shared it would be fully compliant and fully accessible to students.
Some accessibility features will
include elevators, strobe lights for emergencies and rooms with telecommunication features.
What else will be offered and available for students?
“There will be a café that has made to order food. There will also be a convenience store associated with that. A little bit similar to what College Creek is but less food concept and more convenience store or grocer,” Fisher said.
Fisher referred to the surrounding area as being a “food desert” so the café and convenience store will be open to students and the public. Students will have on-site laundry as well.
A gym will be available to residents which is comparable to the one on the first floor of the Jolly Giant Commons, said Fisher. The space is said to have machines for cardio, free weights and cable machines.
“But it will be much better than the J gym. That ones a little bit cave-like. This will have windows to the outside,” Fisher said.
Residents will also have many green-spaces for recreational use. How about transportation and parking?
There are 328 parking spaces on-
site. A secure indoor bike storage area will be available for about 350 bikes.
“In addition we will be having off site parking, close to about 800 stalls of parking, out at Foster Ave. and we're working on that project right now,” Fisher said.
A shuttle will be introduced that will stop at campus, the new residence hall and the parking lot at Foster Ave. How many Resident Advisors will be on site?
King said, that there are an expected 20 resident advisors that will be on site. Additionally, there will be two to three professional live-on Residence Life Coordinators to support the students living in the new housing area. There will be two to three RAs on each floor and two to three RLCs for the area who are responsible for monitoring the facility and addressing any safety or behavioral issues. What if students get locked out of their apartment?
King said there will be a front desk where students can check-in, borrow equipment, ask questions, report maintenance issues and get assistance with lockouts. There will also be a mailroom.
Will there be an application fee?
A $100 non-refundable application fee for all campus housing will be in effect. It will then apply to the student's first payment. Students aren’t paying anything in addition to the license agreement. With parts of this location being open to the public are there safety concerns?
King said that the university’s locking plan will only grant access to resident areas to residents by using keycards to enter the spaces. UPD will also be patrolling the facility as they do with other campus facilities.
“The new Residence Hall is well staffed with a variety of Housing and facilities personnel who are well informed of how to address any concerns that could arise,” King said in an email.
A mock-up of Cal Poly Humboldt's new housing project near the intersection of St. Louis Rd and Hwy 101. Image courtesy of Facilities Management
Empoderando Voces Bilingües: El Leñador imparte Taller de Periodismo en Universidad de Guanajuato
Escrito por Maria Virginia Hernandez
No es de todos los días que un periódico universitario que está al servicio de la comunidad hispana es invitado a impartir un taller a nivel internacional. Pero este fue el caso de El Leñador, periódico el cual fue invitado a la Universidad de Guanajuato a impartir un taller como parte del Noveno Foro y Expo Internacional enfocado a los objetivos de desarrollo sostenible, que se llevó a cabo del 24 al 26 de septiembre.
Maryanne Casas-Perez, Jefa de Redacción de El Leñador y Andrea Juarez, Asesora de El Leñador y yo, Editora de español, fuimos invitadas a participar de este evento por parte del Dr. Rosamel S. Benavides-Garb, Vicepresidente de la Oficina de Diversidad, Equidad e Inclusión de Cal Poly Humboldt y con la aprobación de Jenn Capps, Rectora y Vicepresidente de Asuntos Académicos de la Universidad.
Benavides-Garb indicó que, “La Universidad de Guanajuato, una universidad pública importante en México, y Cal Poly Humboldt han estado en conversaciones de colaboración institucional por más de un año”, por lo que en ese contexto nos extendieron la invitación a El Leñador a participar en este viaje.
Benavides-Garb menciona que “Con la aprobación inmediata de nuestra Vicerrectora, Capps, extendimos una invitación a “El Leñador” porque este proyecto estudiantil ilustra un compromiso progresivo de nuestra institución con los procesos de aprendizajes en terreno de nuestros estudiantes. La historia de “El Leñador” es una historia de lucha, resistencia, y fortaleza de nuestros estudiantes para superar retos constantes”.
Junto a Casas-Perez presentamos nuestro taller llamado “Empoderando voces con ‘El Leñador’, periodismo bilingüe para el crecimiento profesional, impacto comunitario y justicia social”, en donde pudimos compartir con estudiantes de la universidad y compartir sobre el impacto que el periódico ha tenido en nuestro campus, en nuestra comunidad y en todos los estudiantes que forman parte de el periódico.
Jorge Flores Icaza, Jefe de Redacción de “Gazeta de Artes”, y estudiante de Artes Escénicas de la Universidad de Guanajuato comenta, “la presentación me pareció muy enriquecedora debido a la labor transformadora de El Leñador/ La Leñadora” y Flores Icaza menciona, “Al ver el alcance de El Leñador materializado en los periódicos impresos, me inspiró y me llegaron muchas ideas de artículos de lo que podemos escribir en nuestra comunidad”, ya que actualmente Flores Icaza junto a sus compañeros, Andrea Contla Mendoza, Mateo Ramírez Soto y otros compañeros más están por sacar su primera publicación de manera independiente la cual, “pretende visibilizar situaciones de la comunidad educativa, de la comunidad universitaria, así como también de nuestro entorno inmediato que es la ciudad de Guanajuato”, dijo Flores Icaza.
La experiencia de ser acompañadas por nuestra consejera, la Profesora Juarez, es una experiencia enriquecedora ya que contar con el apoyo de profesores y facultad en estos eventos es indispensable para nosotras como estudiantes. Es la primera vez que se
tiene una oportunidad como esta de presentar a nivel internacional. Juarez menciona, “Que se le haya pedido a El Leñador presentar en esta conferencia internacional es algo muy importante. Resalta lo impactante que es el trabajo que realizan aquí y que podría ser un modelo para otros campus, incluso fuera de los Estados Unidos”.
Adicional a la presentación en la universidad, tuvimos la oportunidad de entrevistarnos con la periodista mexicana, colaboradora de POPLab y corresponsal de la revista Proceso, Veronica Espinoza, quien compartió sus experiencias siendo periodista en México y los retos que ha enfrentado para continuar con su labor periodística en este país. Juárez menciona que “este viaje reforzó lo importante que es un periodismo creíble y confiable para una sociedad más democrática”.
Casas-Perez, Jefa de Redacción de El Leñador dijo, “siento mucho orgullo de haber tenido la oportunidad de presentar El Leñador, espero que la gente que fue a nuestro taller entienda lo que estamos tratando de hacer, nuestra misión y nuestro mensaje”, al preguntarle
sobre su experiencia representando a El Leñador internacionalmente.
Benavides-Garb habló sobre lo que significa esta experiencia para el Leñador y comentó que “significa que El Leñador está dándole más oportunidades a los estudiantes”, y espera que surjan más oportunidades de seguir viajando.
Tanto Casas-Perez y yo regresamos de este viaje inspiradas y con más ganas que nunca de seguir representando al El Leñador y continuar la labor de equipo que representa trabajar en un periódico, ya que sin la ayuda de cada miembro del equipo esto no sería posible. Para los estudiantes universitarios es necesario e indispensable sentir el apoyo de la facultad y del personal administrativo de la universidad en los proyectos que emprendemos ya que es una manera de empoderar a los estudiantes y animarlos a perseguir sus sueños. Espero que existan más oportunidades para los estudiantes para continuar “Empoderando voces”.
Maryanne Casas-Perez y Maria Virginia Hernandez enfrente de las escaleras de la Universidad de Guanajuato. Foto por Andrea Juarez
Maryanne Casas-Perez explicando cómo se diseñó la portada. Foto por Andrea Juarez
Empowering Bilingual Voices: El Leñador gives a journalism workshop at the University of Guanajuato
by Maria Virginia Hernández translated by Isaac Weadon
It's not everyday that a university newspaper serving the Hispanic community is invited to give a workshop at an international level. But this was the case for El Leñador newspaper, which was invited to the University of Guanajuato as part of Noveno Foro and Expo Internacional focusing on the objectives of sustainable development, which took place from Sep. 24-26.
Maryanne Casas-Perez, editor in chief of El Leñador, and Andrea Juarez, advisor, and I, the Spanish editor, were all invited to participate in this event thanks in part to Dr. Rosamel S. Benavides-Garb, Vice President of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Cal Poly Humboldt and with the approval of Jenn Capps, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs.
Benavides-Garb said, “The university of Guanajuato, an important public university in Mexico, and Cal Poly Humboldt have engaged in conversations about institutional collaboration for more than a year,” and because of this they invited El Leñador to participate in this trip.
Benavides-Garb commented, “with the immediate approval of our vice president, Capps, we extended an invitation to El Leñador because this student project illustrates a progressive commitment from our institution to the learning processes in the territory of our students. El Leñador’s story is one of struggle, resistance and strength from our students in order to overcome constant challenges.”
Alongside Casas-Perez we presented our workshop “Empowering Voices with El Leñador, Bilingual Journalism for Professional Development, Community impact and Social Justice,” where we had the opportunity to share with the students of the university about the impact that the newspaper has had on our campus, on our community and on all of the students that make up the newspaper.
Jorge Flores Icaza, editor in chief of Gazeta de Artes, and performing arts student at the University of Guanajuato said, “The presentation was very enrich-
ing due to the transformative work of El Leñador.” He added, “Seeing the reach of El Leñador materialized in the printed newspapers, it inspired me and a lot of ideas came to me about articles that we could write in our community.”
Flores Icaza, along with his peers Andrea Contla Mendoza, Mateo Ramirez Soto and others are about to release their first independent publication, which “intends to shed light on issue of the educational community, of the university community and our immediate environment, the city of Guanajuato,” said Flores Izca.
The experience of being accompanied by our advisor, Professor Juarez, was an enriching experience, and having the support of our professors and faculty in these events is essential for us as students. This was the first time that El Leñador had the opportunity to present on an international level. Juarez mentioned, “For El Leñador to be asked to
present at this international conference is something really significant. It highlights how impactful the work they do here is and that they could be an example for other campuses, including outside of the United States.”
As well as the presentation at the university, we had the opportunity to meet with Mexican journalist, collaborator with POPLab and correspondent of Proceso magazine, Veronica Espinoza, who shared her experiences of being a journalist in Mexico and she challenges she has faced in order to continue her journalism in this country. Juarez said, “This trip has reinforced how important credible and reliable journalism is for a more democratic society.”
When asked about her experience representing El Leñador internationally, Casas-Perez said, “I feel a lot of pride to have had the opportunity to present El Leñador, I hope the people who went to our workshop understand what were try-
ing to do, our mission and our message.”
Benavides-Garb spoke on what this experience means to El Leñador, saying, “it means El Leñador is giving more opportunities to students,” and he hopes more opportunities will arise for students to travel.
Both Casas-Perez and I left this trip inspired and with more motivation than ever to continue representing El Leñador and continue the team work that is required of working on a newspaper, as none of this would be possible without the help of every staff member.
For university students, it is essential to feel the support of the faculty and staff in the projects we undertake, as it empowers students and encourages them to pursue their dreams. I hope there will be more opportunities for students to continue “Empowering Voices.”
Andrea Juarez and Maryanne Casas-Perez at the university fair inside the University of Guanajuato.
UG student Andrea Contla Mendoza asking for journalism tips for interviewing. Photo by Andrea Juarez
Impacts of disciplinary actions taken against students after protest in April
by Ben Hernandez
With a university building occupied, dozens of students and community members camped throughout the university’s campus and the use of riot-trained police, the pro-Palestine protest at Cal Poly Humboldt in April 2024 was the first of its kind.
For many students, their participation in the protest have had huge impacts on their student and personal lives.
Some students didn’t actively participate in the protest on campus, yet still received a disciplinary email from the school.
Brad Butterfield is a student journalist with The Lumberjack at Cal Poly Humboldt. Butterfield was one of the many students who received a disciplinary email from administration in July for violating section 41301 of Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations.
Specifically:
(2) Unauthorized entry into, presence in, use of, or misuse of University property.
(17) Failure to comply with directions or, or interference with, any University official or any public safety officer while
acting in the performance of his/her duties.
(19)(B) Violation of the Student Conduct Procedures, including disruption or interference with the orderly progress of a student discipline proceeding.
(16) Violation of any published University policy, rule, regulation or presidential order.
“I was disciplined for live streaming after the protest had concluded,” Butterfield said. “I was involved in the capacity that I was a journalist there covering the story, but I had no involvement with the protest itself.”
Butterfield’s charges, along with other students, were later dismissed by the university.
Natali Thomas is a junior at Cal Poly Humboldt studying Child Development Elementary Education. Her participation in the protest resulted not only in a threat of suspension but also an arrest.
Thomas received an email from the school about her suspension during the protest, instructing her to leave campus. After remaining on campus throughout
the protest, she was ultimately apprehended by law enforcement on the morning of April 30, 2024.
Thomas and many other students arrested in the protest were eventually bailed out with funds raised by Students for a Democratic Society (SDS).
Disciplinary charges against Thomas were eventually dropped, but not without consequences.
“I struggled a lot after my suspension and my arrest because when I was suspended, I had a job here on campus and I wasn’t allowed to return to work,” Thomas said. “There was a great deal of time that I wasn’t able to work and I feel like I tried really hard to communicate that with people here on campus. I had the job to pay bills, like pay rent so that became a big issue.”
Incidentally, Thomas also lost her CalFresh benefits due to not having a job anymore. CalFresh requires some form of employment for able-bodied adults, however there are some exceptions.
Dean Harootunian, a senior and a Liberal Studies Elementary Education major
was also disciplined by the university and later arrested.
Harootunia lost their on-campus job due to their suspension, with no option of working there over summer.
“I’ve reflected and discussed the impact of being arrested, in jail, and barred from my job, and the financial and emotional impact of these things, which were significant,” Harootunian wrote in an email response to El Leñador. “At this point in my life, I’m more interested in being in conversation about holding Cal Poly Humboldt accountable for their refusal to meet our demands of divestment and disclosure, the brutalizing of students by cops, and the overall refusal to acknowledge the genocide of Palestinians in a thorough, accurate and meaningful way.”
El Leñador reached out to Dr. Mitch Mitchell, the Dean of students and the Marketing and Communications office. Neither responded in time for the print publication.
Sheriffs arresting students and community members in front of Gist Hall in the morning of April 30. Photo by Jacqueline V Espinoza
Propositions explained: Do you know what you’re voting for?
by Jordan Pangelinan
Voting can be intimidating when it comes to making a decision that ultimately decides the future for the country and community you live in. Voting ballots use complicated terminology that in most cases many people don’t understand. There are a few things that everyone who votes in elections should know before voting in November.
PROPOSITIONS - STATE
Propositions are laws, amendments or initiatives that can differ through each state as they are proposed by citizens or legislatures to be voted on later by the public. There are many ways to research each proposition. You can pick up a voters guide at your local election office with arguments for and against each proposition to help understand your vote as well as staff to help answer any questions.
Propositions on this upcoming ballot
PROP 2: Authorizes bonds for public school community college facilities. Legislative Statute.
Many public schools and community colleges throughout California are outdated and need repairs or upgrades to meet basic health and safety standards. These upgrades will prepare students for college and 21st Century careers to retain and attract quality teachers. Prop. 2 offers to meet those needs and is guided by strict taxpayer accountability protections so funds are spent as promised with local control.
PROP 6: Eliminates Constitutional Provision Allowing Involuntary Servitude for Incarcerated Persons. Legislative Constitutional Amendment.
Prop 6 eliminates all forms of slavery and involuntary servitude within California, ensuring no person is subjected
to such conditions regardless of their confinement circumstances.
MEASURES - COUNTY/LOCAL
Measures on your ballot are what you decide to vote for in your county and city. A measure is put on the ballot or a district. An example of this would be a school district. Measures can potentially change your tax rates in some of your cities or districts or even change previous policies that have been put in place.
An example is Measure F in Eureka, CA. City measures will only ever appear on general election ballots. Those are the ones that come around in November which could be a midterm election or presidential election.
“I think people maybe forget that they interact with day to day. You know the
President doesn’t decide how much you pay for water, your community service district does that. And if you skip out on that race then your skipping out on a decision for who is going to provide your basic services or who is going to decide what your children get taught and their school if you don't vote in a school board race,” said Genevieve Serna a candidate running for Arcata City Council.
If you have more questions regarding the upcoming election ballot you can visit the Humboldt County Elections Office at 2426 6th St, Eureka, CA 95501.
Information from Genevieve Serna Arcata City Council Candidate and https://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/
Proposiciones explicadas: ¿Sabes por qué estás votando?
Escrito por Jordan Pangelinan traducido por Desiree Osornio
Votar puede ser intimidante cuando se trata de tomar una decisión que, en última instancia, determina el futuro del país y la comunidad en la que vives. Las boletas de votación a menudo utilizan una terminología complicada que muchas personas no comprenden. Hay algunas cosas que todos los votantes deben saber antes de votar en noviembre.
PROPUESTAS - ESTADO
Las propuestas son leyes, enmiendas o iniciativas que pueden variar según el estado, ya que son presentadas por ciudadanos o legislaturas para ser votadas más adelante por el público. Hay muchas formas de investigar cada propuesta. Puedes recoger una guía para votantes en tu oficina electoral local, donde encontrarás argumentos a favor y en contra de cada propuesta para ayudarte a entender tu voto, además de personal que puede responder a tus preguntas.
Propuestas en la boleta electoral de este año
PROP 2: Autoriza bonos para instalaciones de escuelas públicas y colegios comunitarios. Estatuto Legislativo.
Muchas escuelas públicas y colegios comunitarios en California están obsoletos y necesitan reparaciones o mejoras para cumplir con los estándares básicos de salud y seguridad. Estas actualizaciones preparará a los estudiantes para la universidad y carreras del siglo XXI, además de retener y atraer maestros de calidad. La Prop. 2 busca satisfacer esas necesidades y está guiada por estrictas protecciones de responsabilidad fiscal para garantizar que los fondos se utilicen según lo prometidoó, bajo control local.
PROP 6: Elimina la disposición constitucional que permite la servidumbre involuntaria para personas encar-
celadas. Enmienda Constitucional Legislativa.
La Prop. 6 elimina todas las formas de esclavitud y servidumbre involuntaria en California, garantizando que ninguna persona sea sometida a tales condiciones, independientemente de su situación de confinamiento.
MEDIDAS - CONDADO/LOCAL
Las medidas en tu boleta electoral son aquellas que decides votar a nivel de condado y ciudad. Una medida puede ser colocada en la boleta para un distrito, como un distrito escolar. Las medidas pueden potencialmente cambiar las tasas de impuestos en algunas ciudades o distritos, o incluso modificar políticas que ya se han implementado.
Un ejemplo es la Medida F en Eureka, CA. Las medidas municipales solo aparecen en las boletas electorales generales, que son las que se presentan en noviembre, durante las elecciones
intermedias o presidenciales.
“Creo que la gente tal vez olvide que interactúan con cosas del día a día. Sabes, el Presidente no decide cuánto pagas por el agua, lo hace tu distrito de servicios comunitarios. Y si no participas en esa elección, estás dejando de tomar la decisión sobre quién te proporcionará servicios básicos o quién decidirá qué se les enseñará a tus hijos en la escuela si no votas en las elecciones para la junta escolar”, dijo Genevieve Serna, candidata al Concejo Municipal de Arcata.
Si tienes más preguntas sobre la boleta electoral de este año, puedes visitar la Oficina de Elecciones del Condado de Humboldt en 2426 6th St, Eureka, CA 95501.
Información de Genevieve Serna, candidata al Concejo Municipal de Arcata y https://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/
Interim President Spagna talks about goals for Cal Poly Humboldt
by Maryanne Casas-Perez
Michael E. Spagna was appointed the new interim president of Cal Poly Humboldt by CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia, starting his term on Aug. 26. Spagna has been an educator for well over 30 years, teaching K-12 and higher education, with an education specialty in reading disorders and dyslexia.
“I came in with an understanding that relationships were gonna have to be built and that there was gonna have to be a restoration of trust,” Spagna said.
Before coming to Cal Poly Humboldt, Spagna was a professor at Cal State Northridge for 24 years. More recently Spagna was the provost and vice president at Dominguez Hills during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he taught out of a trailer for two years.
During his time at Dominguez Hills Spagna shared that their history of student activism is very similar to Cal Poly Humboldt’s.
When asked if he will be implementing new policies affecting students, Spagna shared that in his 33 years being a part of the CSU system there has always been a Time, Place and Manner policy, but says it is unique to have a systemwide policy. Over the summer, Chancellor Garcia directed all 23 CSU campuses to implement this system wide policy.
Administration at Cal Poly Humboldt must conform with certain aspects of the new system wide policy but there is a degree of “freedom” where local changes can be made in the addendum. Cal Poly Humboldt can decide which areas are considered public spaces, limited spaces and off-limit spaces.
The SAC quad is an example of a public space but if that space has already been reserved for a university event and other students attempt to protest at the same time, they will not be able to do so.
Spagna believes an education campaign regarding the systemwide TPM policy would be helpful to get everyone at Cal Poly Humboldt involved. Other goals Spagna has for the next year include: rebuilding trust between the president and students, help with healing the trauma from last semester's events and making strides towards finding a suitable longterm president that will continue to work with students.
On Oct. 10, the CSU chancellor and the permanent president search committee will host a Town Hall to ask the commu-
nity what qualities they are looking for in a future permanent president. Details of the event and time have not yet been determined.
“This campus receives the president it deserves, that he or she will come in and will know what this campus is, as opposed to picking someone who looks good on paper,” Spagna said.
As interim president, Spagna has the full authority and can make decisions on budgets, buildings and programs. Spagna signed a contract agreeing to not apply to be the permanent president, this a standard part of being an acting or interim president at any CSU.
Spagna explained that there is a difference between an acting president, an interim president, and a permanent president; but all three have full authority. The chancellor appoints the role of acting president in an emergency situation for a month, then the acting president appears before a board of trustees, who vote to make them interim president for up to a
year. If a permanent president is found, they could begin at any time before July 1 of 2025.
Looking for ways to better serve the Latine and BIPOC communities, Spagna has met with Associate Vice President of the Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion office, Dr. Rosamel Benavides-Garb and his staff to have these conversations.
No definite plan has been announced but Cal Poly Humboldt is pursuing a Seal of Excelencia. This is a national certification given to institutions that go above and beyond to serve Latino students.
“There are some pockets, from what I have seen, of cultures that are not represented and I’d like to have that as an ongoing conversation,” Spagna said. Spagna is still new to campus but wants to be in spaces where students can approach him, ask questions and talk through their concerns. He shared his point of view from the Sept. 6 Palestine vigil held at the SAC quad saying, “I’m a big fan of going with the flow and so I
wanted to respect the student’s want, to be in community and do a vigil.”
Spagna was in Eureka when he heard about the vigil and came back to Cal Poly Humboldt campus to sit for three and a half hours to show his support. Although he was open to student engagement Spagna said no students came up to him but he was there if they needed him.
Spagna quoted Osama Abuirshad, the executive director of American Muslims for Palestine saying, “Students are the conscience of America.” Spagna wants to see students grow to their full potential.
“I'm here because I love the fact that we have students, many of whom are first generation students, where this is a transformative opportunity to reach their dreams,” Spagna said.
Students can see their new interim president in action on Instagram @humboldtprez
Michael E. Spagna described his goals for Cal Poly Humboldt in a recent interview with El Leñador. Photo by Jordan Pangelinan
El presidente interino Michael E. Spagna habla de sus metas para Cal Poly Humboldt
Escrito por Maryanne Casas-Perez traducido por Isaac Weadon
Michael E. Spagna fue nombrado presidente interino de Cal Poly Humboldt por la canciller de la CSU Mildred García, comenzando su mandato el 26 de agosto. Spagna ha sido educador por más de 30 años, enseñando niveles de kínder a 12.° grado y en educación superior, con un especializad en trastornos de lectura y dislexia.
“Vine con el entendimiento de que las relaciones tendrían que construirse, y que tendría que haber una restauración de confianza”, dijo Spagna.
Antes de llegar a Cal Poly Humboldt, Spagna fue profesor en Cal State Northridge por 24 años. Más recientemente, fue rector y vicepresidente en Dominguez Hills durante la pandemia de COVID-19, donde enseñó desde un tráiler por dos años.
Durante su tiempo en Dominguez Hills, Spagna compartió que su historia de activismo estudiantil es muy parecida a la de Cal Poly Humboldt.
Cuando se le preguntó si implementaría nuevas políticas que afecten a los estudiantes, Spagna comentó que en sus 33 años de ser parte del sistema CSU, siempre ha habido una política de Tiempo, Lugar y Manera, (TPM, por sus siglas en inglés), pero que es único el tener una política a nivel de todo el sistema. Durante el verano, la canciller García dirigió a los 23 campus CSU a implementar esta política en todo el sistema.
La administración de Cal Poly Humboldt debe cumplir con ciertos aspectos de la nueva política, pero hay un poco de “libertad” para hacer cambios locales en el anexo. Cal Poly Humboldt puede decidir cuáles espacios son considerados públicos, espacios limitados y espacios fuera de los límites.
El patio del SAC es un ejemplo de un espacio público, pero si este espacio ya está reservado para un evento universitario y otros estudiantes intentan protestar al mismo tiempo, no podrán hacerlo.
Spagna cree que una campaña educativa sobre la política TPM sería útil para involucrar a toda la comunidad de Cal Poly Humboldt. Otras metas que tiene Spagna para el próximo año incluyen: reconstruir la confianza entre el presidente y los estudiantes, ayudar a sanar el trauma de los eventos del semestre pasado
“
Hay algunos grupos, según lo que he visto, de culturas que no están representadas y me gustaría que esto fuera una conversación continua”.
y avanzar en la búsqueda de un presidente permanente que continúe trabajando con los estudiantes.
El 10 de octubre la canciller de CSU y el comité de búsqueda del presidente permanente organizarán un foro comunitario para preguntar a la comunidad qué cualidades buscan en un futuro presidente permanente. Los detalles del evento y la hora aún no se han determinado.
“Este campus recibe el presidente que merece, que él o ella llegará y que entenderá lo que es este campus, en lugar de elegir a alguien que solo se vea bien en el papel”, dijo Spagna.
Como presidente interino, Spagna tiene plena autoridad y puede tomar decisiones sobre presupuestos, edificios y programas. Spagna firmó un contrato en
- Michael E. Spagna
donde se comprometió a no postularse para ser el presidente permanente, lo cual es una parte estándar de ser presidente interino o en funciones en cualquier CSU.
Spagna explicó que hay una diferencia entre un presidente en funciones, un presidente interino y un presidente permanente; pero los tres tienen plena autoridad. La canciller nombra al presidente en funciones en una situación de emergencia por un mes, luego el presidente en funciones se presenta ante una junta de fideicomisarios, quienes votan para convertirlo en presidente interino por hasta un año. Si se encuentra un presidente permanente, podría empezar en cualquier momento antes del 1 de julio de 2025.
Conexiones con los centros culturales Buscando formas de servir mejor a las
comunidades latine y BIPOC, Spagna se ha reunido con el vicepresidente asociado de la Oficina de Diversidad, Equidad e Inclusión, el Dr. Rosamel Benavides-Garb y su personal para tener estas conversaciones.
No se ha anunciado un plan definitivo, pero Cal Poly Humboldt está buscando obtener el Sello de Excelencia. Este es un certificado nacional que se otorga a las instituciones que van más allá para servir a los estudiantes latine.
“Hay algunos grupos, según lo que he visto, de culturas que no están representadas y me gustaría que esto fuera una conversación continua”, dijo Spagna.
Spagna aún es nuevo en el campus, pero quiere estar en espacios donde los estudiantes puedan acercarse a él, hacer preguntas y hablar sobre sus preocupaciones. Compartió su punto de vista sobre la vigilia de Palestina que se realizó el 6 de septiembre en el patio SAC, diciendo: “Soy un gran fan de dejarse llevar por el momento, por lo que quise respetar el deseo de los estudiantes de estar en comunidad y realizar una vigilia”.
Spagna estaba en Eureka cuando escuchó sobre la vigilia y regresó al campus de Cal Poly Humboldt para sentarse durante tres horas y media para mostrar su apoyo. Aunque estaba disponible para los estudiantes, Spagna dijo que ningún estudiante se acercó a él, pero estuvo allí por si lo necesitaban.
Spagna citó a Osama Abuirshad, director ejecutivo de American Muslims for Palestine, diciendo: “Los estudiantes son la conciencia de los Estados Unidos”. Spagna quiere ver a los estudiantes crecer hasta alcanzar su máximo potencial.
“Estoy aquí por el hecho de que tenemos a estudiantes, muchos de los cuales son estudiantes de primera generación, para quienes esta es una oportunidad transformadora para alcanzar sus sueños”, dijo Spagna.
Los estudiantes pueden ver a su nuevo presidente interino en acción en Instagram @humboldtprez
El nuevo presidente interino Michael E. Spagna. Foto por Jordan Pangelinan
Drag Artists Ignite Latine Flare in Humboldt
Vibe Productions hosts their second annual all Spanish drag show in Arcata
by Noelle Doblado and Kimberly Alexsandra Madrigal
Local drag artists light up Arcata with a fierce show where Hispanic and queer culture collide for a night of unapologetic celebration.
Vibe Productions, a Dreammaker project through The Ink People, a non profit center for the arts, hosts drag shows and other queer and BIPOC events in Humboldt County. Their second annual all Spanish drag show, Drag en Español, took place at their home venue the Septentrio Winery on Sept. 15.
Jorge Luis Mendoza is Vibe Productions’ co-creator, stage manager and performer. After Vibe Productions’ first all Spanish drag show, Mendoza knew that Drag en Español was something that the community wanted to see more of.
“I was so happy that I got to do it because at the end of that show, the amount of people that came to us and were like, ‘I never thought that I could just sing along to the songs at a drag show’, that was the reason that we did it,” Mendoza said. “To remind everyone of, you might not be home, but you have a place, you have a community here.”
Vibe Productions’ co-creator, event coordinator and social media manager Casandra Kelly was inspired to bring the liveliness of big city queer culture into the Humboldt community.
“I don't want to fall behind just because we live in this island essentially up here in Humboldt County,” Kelly said. “I want to make sure that I'm still going to the city, and I'm still seeing what's happening, [so] that I'm open to new ideas. That is [what] is always just pushing me further.”
Mendoza and Kelly brought their mission to life with Vibe Productions and Drag en Español, by bringing the community together into a supportive judgment-free atmosphere that provides representation for diverse identities.
“If you don't think there's room at the table then we need to build a bigger table plain and simple,” Mendoza said. “I think our mission is to remind people …you don't get to feel left out at our shows. You're part of the family at our shows.”
The night included eight local performers and two Ballet Folklórico de Humboldt
dancers dressed to the nines. Performers dressed as iconic Hispanic artists and characters such as the late Vicente Fernández and La Chilindrina from the TV series, “El Chavo del Ocho”.
Nostalgic songs including “La gata bajo la lluvia” and “Como tu mujer” both by Rocio Durcal were performed during the show.
Zara Guizman, an audience member, found the lively night to be a powerful moment to see the interconnectedness of the Hispanic and queer community.
“It was an amazing opportunity to see the LGBT community come together to just really showcase Hispanic heritage month and just remind me of the music I grew up listening to,” Guizman said.
Events hosted by Vibe Productions are favorites among the community, especially for regular supporters like Elle Penner and Tilly Thompson. The frequent VIP section guests proudly mark their calendars for every event and consider it a locked-in date, and what they describe as their “holiday.”
“I’m fully hooked on Vibe Productions and all of the queens! We had to come out for the second annual Drag en Español, our favorite of the year,” Penner said.
“I'm so excited to continue coming to these [shows] each month and supporting our queens,” Thompson said.
Drag artist Aligretto Gastinell, also known by their drag name, Garlic Bread, found a community in Humboldt through their passion for the art of drag. As they performed a Spanish ballad and saw the crowd proudly come together, Gastinell was mesmerized by the warmth of the night’s celebration.
“Drag is just so important to me, so I'm glad that I get to share my art with the community and take in art, and it's really just a very inspiring community to be a part of,” Gastinell said.
“Just to look around and see a bunch of brown people dancing and being happy together, it's great, it's just amazing.”
Vibe Productions will be hosting a drag show event at Cal Poly Humboldt at the Van Duzer Theatre on Oct. 18 from 9-11:30 p.m during Lumberjack Weekend.
Drag artists perform at the Drag en Español event on Sept. 15. Performers stage names:
Upper left Kata Dreamz (@katadreamz), Bottom left Komboujia (@komboujia), Upper right Garlic Bread (@aligretto101), Bottom right Val De Flores (@just_jorge). All photos by Noelle Doblado.
Los artistas drag se presentarán en el evento Drag en Español el 15 de septiembre. Nombres artísticos de los artistas: arriba a la izquierda Kata Dreamz (@katadreamz), abajo a la izquierda Komboujia (@komboujia), arriba a la derecha Garlic Bread (@aligretto101), abajo a la derecha Val De Flores ( @just_jorge). Fotos por Noelle Doblado.
Artistas Drag Encienden el Fuego Latine en Humboldt
Vibe Productions organiza su segundo show de drag en español en Arcata
Escrito por Noelle Doblado y Kimberly Alexsandra Madrigal traducido por Isabella Garcia Lopez
Artistas locales de drag iluminaron Arcata con un espectáculo vibrante donde la cultura hispana y queer se entrelazaron para una noche de celebración sin inhibiciones.
Vibe Productions, un proyecto de Dreamaker a través de The Ink People, un centro artístico sin fines de lucro, organiza espectáculos de drag y otros eventos queer y BIPOC en el condado de Humboldt. Su segundo evento anual de drag, Drag en Español, se llevó a cabo en Septentrio Winery, el 15 de septiembre.
Jorge Luis Mendoza es el co-creador, gerente de escena y gerente de redes sociales de Vibe Productions. Después del primer evento de drag en español organizado por ellos, Mendoza supo que Drag en Español era algo que la comunidad deseaba ver más.
“Estuve muy feliz de haber podido organizarlo, porque al final del gran evento, la cantidad de personas que vinieron hacia nosotros y dijeron: ‘Nunca pensé que podría cantar las canciones en un show de drag’, esa fue la razón por la que lo hicimos”, dijo Mendoza. “Para recordarles a todos que, aunque no estés en casa, tienes un lugar, tienes una comunidad aqui”.
Casandra Kelly, co-creadora, coordinadora de eventos y gerente de redes sociales de Vibe Productions, se inspiró para traer la alegría de la cultura queer de las ciudades grandes a la comunidad de Humboldt.
“No quiero quedarme atrás solo porque vivimos en esta isla aqui, en el condado de Humboldt”, dijo Kelly. “Quiero asegurarme de que sigo yendo a la ciudad y que sigo viendo lo que está sucediendo [y] que estoy abierta a nuevas ideas. Eso es lo que siempre me empuja más allá”.
Mendoza y Kelly dieron vida a su misión con Vibe Productions y Drag en Español al reunir a la comunidad en una atmósfera de apoyo libre de juicios que brinda representación para identidades diversas.
“Si piensas que no hay espacio en la mesa, entonces necesitamos contruir una mesa mas grande, así de simple”, dijo Mendoza. “Creo que nuestra misión es recordarle a la gente… que no puedes sentirte excluido en nuestros eventos. Eres parte de la familia en nuestros eventos”.
La noche incluyó a ocho artistas locales y dos bailarines del Ballet Folklórico de Humboldt vestidos con todo el glamour.
Los artistas se disfrazaron como icónicos artistas y personajes hispanos, como el difunto Vicente Fernandez y La Chilindrina de la serie de televisión El Chavo del Ocho.
Durante el evento canciones nostálgicas como “La gata bajo la lluvia” y “Como tu mujer”, ambas de Rocio Dúrcal, fueron interpretadas esa noche.
Zara Guizman, una espectadora, consideró que el ambiente de la noche fue un momento para ver la interconexión de la comunidad hispana y queer.
“Fue una oportunidad increíble para ver a la comunidad LGBT unirse y realmente mostrar el mes de la herencia hispana y recordarme de la música con la que crecí ”, dijo Guizman.
Los eventos organizados por Vibe Productions, son los favoritos en la comunidad, especialmente para los seguidores habituales como Elle Penner y Tilly Thompson. Las invitadas frecuentes de la sección VIP marcan orgullosamente sus calendarios para cada evento y lo consideran una cita fija, describiéndolo como su “festividad”.
“Estoy completamente enganchada a Vibe Productions y a todas las reinas.¡Tuvimos que venir al segundo Drag en Español, nuestro favorito de año!”, dijo Penner.
“Estoy muy emocionada de seguir viniendo a estos [eventos] cada mes y apoyar a nuestras reinas”, dijo Thompson.
El artista de drag, Allegretto Gastinell, también conocido por su nombre, Garlic Bread, encontró su comunidad en Humboldt a través de su pasión por el arte del drag. Mientras interpretaba una balada en español y veía al público unirse con orgullo, Gastinell quedó maravillado por la calidez de la celebración de la noche.
“El drag es tan importante para mí, así que me alegra poder compartir mi arte con la comunidad y disfrutar del arte. Realmente es una comunidad muy inspiradora, de la que formo parte”, dijo Gastinell.
“Solo al mirar a nuestro alrededor y ver un grupo de personas con piel morena bailando y siendo felices juntas, es genial, es simplemente increíble”.
Vibe Productions organizará un evento de drag en Cal Poly Humboldt en el Teatro Van Duzer el 18 de Octubre de 9 a 11:30 p.m durante el fin de semana de Lumberjack.
La Ciendita: More than just a Tiendita
by Ben Hernandez
There's a new Latine-inspired marketplace opening in Arcata this October. La Ciendita will be a community, art and market space for local creatives.
Vanessa Olivera and Ocatvio Acosta are the wife and husband duo behind the new project. They are opening La Ciendita on Ninth Street, next door to the fire station and a block away from the Arcata Plaza.
They hope to offer goods reminiscent of Mexico, including herbs, art, jewelry, food, books, tea, plants and soaps.
“It’s a gallery, it’s a boutique, you know it’s a lounge space when the time is right,” Olivera said. “We really just want to create a home for all the people that are so far away from home, and they don't feel like they have anywhere to go.”
As for the name, “La Ciendita,” the couple decided to name it after Olivera’s great great uncle’s ranch, which was located in Coalcomán, Michoacán.
Karina Juarez is a local ceramics artist who is set to be featured at La Ciendita.
“To have a space where I can create and then have it displayed in a store and then have a way to direct people to my work is something that I haven't expe-
rienced yet, especially up here, and I’m really excited about that,” Juarez said.
Juarez is also thrilled to have a community space so central to the Arcata Plaza.
“It was awesome to feel like we could take up space, you know like in the Plaza,” Juarez said.
Local glyph artist Ernesto Gomez is also excited for the opportunity to be a featured artist.
“La Ciendita gives me a reason to be in Arcata on the regular. ... it's like hanging with family,” said Gomez by email. “La Ciendita is a place that brings together the culture I grew up in on the
La Ciendita: Más que una Tiendita
Escrito por Ben Hernandez traducido por Lila Salinas
Este octubre se inaugurará un nuevo mercado de inspiración latina en Arcata. La Ciendita será un espacio comunitario, de arte y mercado para creativos locales.
Vanessa Olivera y Octavio Acosta son el dúo de marido y mujer detrás del nuevo proyecto. Están abriendo La Ciendita en la calle Novena, al lado del parque de bomberos y a una cuadra de la Plaza Arcata.
Esperan ofrecer productos que recuerden a México, incluyendo hierbas, arte, joyería, comida, libros, té, plantas y jabones.
"Es una galería, es una boutique, sabes, es un espacio de descanso cuando sea el momento adecuado", dijo Olivera. "Realmente solo queremos crear un hogar para todas las personas que están tan lejos de casa, y sienten que no tienen a dónde ir".
En cuanto al nombre, "La Ciendita", la pareja decidió llamarlo así en honor al rancho del tío tatarabuelo de Olivera, que estaba ubicado en Coalcomán, Michoacán.
Karina Juárez es una artista local de cerámica que se presentará en La Ciendita.
"Tener un espacio en el que puedo crear y luego tenerlo exhibido en una tienda, y luego poder dirigir a las personas a mi trabajo es algo que aún no he experimentado, especialmente aquí, y estoy muy emocionada por eso", dijo Juárez.
Juárez también está encantada de tener un espacio comunitario tan cerca de la Plaza de Arcata.
"Fue increíble sentir que podíamos ocupar un espacio, ya sabes, como en la Plaza", dijo Juárez.
El artista local de glifos Ernesto
Gómez también está emocionado por la oportunidad de ser un artista destacado.
"La Ciendita me da una razón para estar en Arcata con regularidad...es como pasar el rato con la familia", dijo Gómez por correo electrónico.
"La Ciendita es un lugar que reúne la cultura en la que crecí en la costa este y la mezcla con las culturas chicanas/ BIPOC aquí en la costa oeste".
Negocios locales como Reyes Construction, Humboldt Hearthstones y Hot Knots han donado a La Ciendita para ayudar a ponerla en marcha.
Ryan McCutchan, propietario de Humboldt Hearthstones, una empresa local de mampostería especializada en piedra natural, donó materiales para ayudar a construir partes de La Ciendita.
"Desde el punto de vista de la
east coast and mixes it with the Chicano/ BIPOC cultures here on the west coast.”
Local businesses such as Reyes Construction, Humboldt Hearthstones and Hot Knots have all donated to La Ciendita to help get it started.
Ryan McCutchan, the owner of Humboldt Hearthstones, a local masonry company specializing in natural stone, donated materials to help build part of La Ciendita.
“From an economics standpoint, money is the blood of a local economy,” McCutchan said. “The more it goes around, everyone benefits.”
For Acosta, La Ciendita is an idea born out of necessity and a desire to connect the local comunidad in a new way.
“Knowing that there is a need, knowing that the community is growing, that industries are coming in, that the town is gonna be growing,” said Acosta. “We have connections to help unite you know farmers, educators, artists, and people who work with food.”
La Ciendita is located at 655 Ninth Street in Arcata and is set to open with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11a.m on Saturday, October 5. Find them on Instagram @la.ciendita.
economía, el dinero es la sangre de una economía local”, dijo McCutchan. “Cuanto más circula, todos se benefician".
Para Acosta, La Ciendita es una idea nacida de la necesidad y el deseo de conectar a la comunidad local de una manera nueva.
"Saber que hay una necesidad, saber que la comunidad está creciendo, que las industrias están llegando, que el pueblo va a crecer", dijo Acosta. "Tenemos conexiones para ayudar a unir a agricultores, educadores, artistas y personas que trabajan con alimentos".
La Ciendita está ubicada en el 655 9th Street, en Arcata y está programada para abrir con una ceremonia de corte de cinta a las 11 a.m. el sábado 5 de octubre. Encuéntralos en Instagram @la.ciendita.
Octavio Acosta, Jessica Olivera y Lolita Acosta frente a su nueva tienda en 655 Ninth Street en Arcata. Foto por Ben Hernández Octavio Acosta, Jessica Olivera and Lolita Acosta in front of their new storefront at 655 Ninth Street in Arcata. Photo by Ben Hernandez
(Left) Susukino Ramen Bar ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 18. (Right) Miso ramen and cannolis are some menu options (Izquierda) Ceremonia de inauguración del Susukino Ramen Bar el 18 de septiembre. (Derecha) Miso ramen y cannolis son algunas opciones del menú. Fotos por Ryndi Greenwell
New Susukino Ramen Bar to satisfy Arcata’s noodle niche
by Ryndi Greenwell
On Sept. 18 the owners of Susukino Ramen Bar announced their grand opening to the public with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Susukino, located at 1504 G Street in downtown Arcata, is now fully open and does not require reservations.
The ramen bar had a reservation only, soft opening a week before the ceremony to work out the kinks that are bound to happen when starting a brand new restaurant.
“The best part was seeing the smiles on peoples faces- saying you guys have really transformed this place,” Ronuk Patel said.
For owners Ronuk Patel, Roshan Patel, and G Mehta, Susukino is a passion project. Ronuk and Roshan are cousins. Mehta is a longtime Humboldt resident and their friend with many years of restaurant industry experience. Coincidentally, Ronuk Patel and Mehta are from the same area of Chicago, but did not become friends until they met in Humboldt a year ago. What attracted them to ramen was its simplicity and addictiveness.
“Ramen is one of those comfort foods that you can eat everyday, you can't really eat a filet mignon everyday, but I could see myself eating a bowl of soup everyday…I can never get sick of it,”Mehta said.
For his prowess in the kitchen, they hired Chef Gori from Sapporo. According to the owners, he is a main pillar in Susukino’s creation. Their spark for Japanese food and a comforting bowl of ramen stems from a
decade of annual trips to Japan, and the numerous friends and flavors they have met along the way.
Their vision for Susukino was to satisfy the need in Arcata for a good bowl of ramen on those rainy Humboldt nights. According to the owners the most popular must-have menu item is the zangi fried chicken appetizer. The owners saw an opportunity to not just create a place with great food, but also a late-night spot with top notch cocktails and eventually live music. With a bowl of ramen costing about $16, Susukino’s owners wanted it to be both relaxed casual dining and somewhere you can take a date.
“It's a bar, it's a lunch spot, it's a dinner spot…you can come in with your sweatshirt or with a tuxedo,” Mehta said.
Susukino is not just distinctive for their Japanese dishes, but also a selection of cannolis made by Eureka Natural Foods with flavors designed exclusively for their restaurant.They also have their own “Susukino” house Pinot Grigio created by local winery Flor D’Luna. They wanted every aspect of Susukino to be unique from the ramen to the desserts and wine.
“After a steaming spicy bowl of ramen it's nice to cool your mouth off with a beautifully made cannoli,” said Roshan Patel.
Susukino is still progressing and customers can expect new menu items dropping within the next couple weeks, including a full bar and cocktail menu.
Nuevo Susukino
Ramen Bar
satisface el nicho de fideos
Escrito por Ryndi Greenwell traducido por Clari Gomez
El 18 de septiembre, los propietarios del Susukino Ramen Bar anunciaron su gran apertura al público con una ceremonia de corte de cinta. Susukino, ubicado en 1504 G street en el centro de Arcata, ya está completamente abierto y no requiere reservaciones.
El bar de ramen tuvo una apertura suave, solo por medio de reservaciones, una semana antes de abrir completamente para resolver problemas que surgen inesperadamente cuando se abre un restaurante nuevo.
“La mejor parte fue ver las sonrisas de las personas, diciendo que realmente transformamos este lugar”, dijo Ronuk Patel.
Para los dueños Ronuk Patel, Roshan Patel y G Mehta, Susukino es un proyecto apasionante. Ronuk y Roshan son primos. Mehta es un residente de Humboldt desde hace mucho tiempo y amigo de ellos, con muchos años de experiencia en la industria de restaurantes. Coincidentemente, Ronuk Patel y Mehta son de la misma zona de Chicago, pero no se hicieron amigos hasta que se conocieron en Humboldt hace un año. Lo que les atrajo del ramen fue su simplicidad y adictividad.
“El ramen es una de esas comidas que es reconfortante, que puedes comer todos los días, uno en verdad no puede comer filete mignon todos los días, pero si me puedo ver comiendo un plato de sopa cada día… Nunca me cansaría de eso”, dijo Mehta.
Para garantizar la habilidad en la cocina, contrataron al Chef Gori de Sapporo. Según los dueños, él es el pilar principal en la creación de Susukino. Su chispa por la comida japonesa y por el ramen reconfortante proviene de una
década de viajes a Japón, y un número de amigos y sabores que han conocido en el camino.
Su visión para Susukino era satisfacer el antojo de un buen plato de ramen en Arcata en esas noches lluviosas de Humboldt. De acuerdo a los dueños, el aperitivo más popular que no puedes dejar de probar es el pollo frito zangi. Los dueños vieron la oportunidad de no solo crear un lugar con buena comida, sino también un lugar donde se pueda disfrutar por las noches con cócteles de primera categoría y eventualmente música en vivo. Con un plato de ramen costando alrededor de $16, los dueños de Susukino querían que fuera un lugar relajado y casual como un lugar donde puedes llevar una cita.
“Es un bar, es un lugar para almorzar, para cenar … Puedes venir con tu suéter o con un esmoquín”, dijo Mehta. Susukino no es solamente distintivo por sus platillos japoneses, sino también por su selección de cannolis hechos por Eureka Natural Foods, con sabores diseñados exclusivamente para su restaurante. También tienen su propio vino “Susukino” Pinot Grigio, creado por la bodega local Flor D’Luna. Ellos querían que cada aspecto de Susukino fuera único, desde el ramen hasta los postres y el vino.
“Después de un plato picante de ramen es bueno refrescar tu boca con un cannoli bellamente hecho”, dijo Roshan Patel.
Susukino sigue progresando y los clientes pueden esperar nuevos elementos en el menú dentro de las próximas semanas, incluyendo un bar completo y un menú de cócteles.
Join us for "The Kitchenistas Documentary"
Join us for "The Kitchenistas Documentary" Screening & Speaker Panel Screening & Speaker Panel
LOCAL FOOD • CAREERS • LEADERSHIP PANEL STUDENT POSTERS • SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS
https://forms.gle/68tQBnnMgqro6huT:
Thursday, October 17, 1-5 pm
Thursday, October 17, 1-5 pm
Cal Poly Humboldt Cal Poly Humboldt
Native American Forum Native American Forum
Supported by the Hispanic-Serving Institutions Education Grants Program (HSI), grant no. 202038422-32246, from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture and a generous gift from AmHydro. For disability accommodation contact comida@humboldt.edu
Pan de Muerto, Calacas, Papel Picado, Community Ofrenda
Pascal Biwole: new professor at Cal Poly Humboldt’s School of Engineering
by Alba Guadalupe Galvan
Coming all the way from the University of Clermont Auvergne located in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Pascal Biwole is a new engineering Professor at the Cal Poly Humboldt School of Engineering.
Professor Biwole graduated form St Cyr Special Military Academy as an undergraduate studying mathematics, and soon after worked in the Corp of Engineers for three years as a commissioner officer. After his service in the army he had gotten bored and wanted to do more intellectual work, Biwole’s path wasn't so straightforward. He went back to school for his master’s in Mechanical Engineering along with a PhD in Civil and Mechanical Engineering from the National Institute of Applied Sciences in Lyon, France.
“Engineering is about making the life of other people easier by finding solutions, solutions to move, solutions to see; for example, the lighting of a building to make it very efficient for people to see. For people to be able to play, engineering is about making life easier for everybody,“ Biwole said.
Biwole came to Cal Poly Humboldt
for a challenge, he could see his future layed out for him in 10 years and decided he wanted more. What drew him in was the approach of the social justice environment, along with the research that is
applied at Cal Poly Humboldt.
He started off as a teachers assistant in 2006 but soon after became a professor between 2009 and 2010. Biwole has taught courses in heat and mass transfer, fluid dynamics, building acoustics and other related courses.
As for Professor Biwole’s goals for the school year, he wants to have his course material ready for students. Hopefully, by next year have a good idea of research that he would like to partake in as well as start writing grants. Biwole encourages students to be open to the experiences the engineering major has to offer.
“Be curious, because there are lots of new technologies and new opportunities in engineering system majors and to work hard would be my advice- it's a very rewarding major,” Biwole said. “When I go to work every morning I think I will help people helping the planet and when you are in the field it's rewarding to tell yourself I'm trying to reduce carbon emissions, to make things more efficient.”
Eileen M. Cashman Professor and Department Chair for the School of Engi-
neering at Cal Poly Humboldt feels Biwole is an important asset.
“He brings a lot of important expertise to our energy systems program, he's coming in at a senior level. Because energy systems is a new program, we’re really fortunate to be able to bring in someone with a lot of expertise already. He has a great background in building energy analysis and energy systems so he comes with all that expertise and knowledge. And he's also just a wonderful person, he really connected well with our students,” Cashman said.
Biwole hopes to be a resource on campus and support students on their academic journey.
“I'm here first for students, I want students to know I'm here for them first and that my door will always be open for my students if they need advising, some additional resources, office hours, to go over course material again,” Biwole said. “I really want them to be successful, they will never be a bother.”
Pascal Biwole: El nuevo profesor de la Escuela de Ingeniería en Cal Poly Humboldt
Escrito por Alba Guadalupe Galvan traducido por Desiree Osornio
Viniendo desde la Universidad de Clermont Auvergne, ubicada en Clermont-Ferrand, Francia, Pascal Biwole es un nuevo profesor de ingeniería en la Escuela de Ingeniería de Cal Poly Humboldt.
El profesor Biwole se graduó de la Academia Militar Especial de St. Cyr con una licenciatura en matemáticas, y posteriormente trabajó durante tres años como oficial comisionado en el Cuerpo de Ingenieros. Tras su servicio militar, sintió la necesidad de dedicarse a un trabajo más intelectual, su camino no fue tan sencillo. Regresó a la academia para obtener una maestría en Ingeniería Mecánica, seguido por un doctorado en Ingeniería Civil y Mecánica por el Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Aplicadas en Lyon, Francia.
"La ingeniería consiste en hacer la vida de otras personas más fácil al encontrar soluciones, soluciones para moverse, soluciones para ver; por ejemplo, la iluminación de un edificio para hacerlo muy
eficiente para que la gente pueda ver. Para que la gente pueda jugar, la ingeniería se trata de facilitar la vida de todos", dijo Biwole.
El profesor Biwole llegó a Cal Poly Humboldt en busca de un nuevo desafío, al darse cuenta de que su futuro estaba ya trazado para los próximos 10 años, y decidió que quería un cambio. Lo que más le atrajo fue el enfoque hacia la justicia social y la investigación aplicada que se realiza en Cal Poly Humboldt. Comenzó como asistente de enseñanza en 2006, pero poco después se convirtió en profesor entre 2009 y 2010. Biwole ha impartido cursos de transferencia de calor y masa, dinámica de fluidos, acústica de edificios y otros cursos relacionados.
En cuanto a los objetivos del profesor Biwole para el año escolar, quiere tener listo el material de sus cursos para los estudiantes. Con suerte, para el próximo año tener una buena idea de las investi-
gaciones en las que le gustaría participar, así como comenzar a redactar propuestas para subvenciones. Biwole anima a los estudiantes a estar abiertos a las experiencias que ofrece la carrera de ingeniería.
“Mi consejo es que sean curiosos, ya que hay muchas tecnologías nuevas y oportunidades en las áreas de sistemas de ingeniería. Trabajar duro es clave, porque es una disciplina muy gratificante”, dijo Biwole. "Cada mañana, cuando voy a trabajar, pienso que estoy contribuyendo a ayudar a las personas y al planeta. Es muy satisfactorio saber que estoy ayudando a reducir las emisiones de carbono y a hacer los sistemas más eficientes”.
Eileen M. Cashman, profesora y directora del Departamento de Ingeniería en Cal Poly Humboldt, considera a Biwole como un recurso valioso.
"Él aporta una gran experiencia a nuestro programa de sistemas energéticos. Se une a nosotros en un nivel senior, lo
que es especialmente importante dado que el programa es relativamente nuevo. Tenemos la suerte de contar con alguien con tanta experiencia. Su trayectoria en el análisis energético de edificaciones y en sistemas energéticos es excepcional. Además, es una persona sumamente atenta, y ha conectado muy bien con nuestros estudiantes", destacó Cashman.
Biwole espera ser un recurso clave en el campus y apoyar a los estudiantes en su desarrollo académico.
"Mi prioridad son los estudiantes. Quiero que los estudiantes sepan que estoy aquí para ellos, que mi puerta siempre estará abierta si necesitan orientación, recursos adicionales, horas de oficina o repasar el material de clase”, dijo Biwole. “Deseo que todos tengan éxito, y nunca será una molestia para mí ayudarles".
Professor Biwole inside his office in Harry Griffith Hall. Photo by Joahnna Tool
Cuentos bilingües de Oaxaca a Humboldt
Escrito por Leslie Ortega traducido por Isaac Weadon
Tan vibrantes como los pétalos de una flor de nopal; los microrrelatos se desarrollaron en narrativas vívidas, cautivando a los oyentes de Humboldt. Del 17 al 19 de septiembre, estudiantes y miembros de la comunidad se reunieron para la oportunidad única de escuchar microrrelatos bilingües de los autores y editores de la antología publicada, “Oaxaca y más allá”.
Originalmente publicada por Humboldt Press en 2023, la antología contiene 36 microrrelatos que, según el resumen del libro, “presentan una muestra de la rica creatividad artística que florece en este estado del sur de México”.
“Siempre hay una oportunidad para sacar una historia de algo, un objeto o una persona… podría ser un microrrelato”, dijo Gayne Rodríguez Guzman, una escritora originaria de la Ciudad de México que ha vivido en Oaxaca desde 2006.
Su obra se enfoca en sanar y elevar las voces de mujeres como narradoras. En una entrevista con El Leñador destacó la falta de representación de mujeres autoras en Oaxaca, explicando que la mayoría de su trabajo se enfoca en crear espacios para elevar las narraciones de mujeres.
En total hay 17 autores de “Oaxaca y más allá”, ocho mujeres y nueve hombres.
La portada de “Oaxaca y más allá” sirve como una representación visual de las mujeres y las culturas indígenas de Oaxaca.
“La portada honra la influencia afromexicana con una foto de Tía Chona, quien es de La Costa Chica. Muchos esclavos africanos se refugiaron en la costa de Oaxaca durante la emancipación”, dijo el coeditor de la antología, James Ephraim Gaasch.
Seis de los 17 autores fueron in-
vitados por Cal Poly Humboldt y Northtown Books en Arcata para celebrar las experiencias diversas y proporcionarles un espacio para compartir su trabajo.
Los autores y editores viajaron de regiones que van desde Oregón hasta La Costa Chica, ubicada en Oaxaca, México.
Originario de San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, y ahora viviendo en California, el autor Lamberto Roque Hernández comentó cómo la identidad indígena se refleja en su trabajo y su vida.
“Ser indígena es conservarlo, pero también es abrirse al mundo porque si nos encerramos en una caja, entonces terminamos por vender un
producto en lugar de nuestra esencia”, dijo Roque Hernández La representación es un tema central en la antología, la cual captura la esencia de una cultura arraigada en resiliencia, generosidad y una conexión profunda del mundo natural.
“No puedo hablar de manera definitiva sobre el tema porque no he vivido las mismas experiencias de una comunidad indígena. Pero como escritor, mi meta es preservar, valorar y dignificar las historias y lenguas indígenas”, dijo Cuauhtémoc Peña Vásquez, maestro y editor de 1450 Ediciones.
La importancia de hacerles accesibles las historias a una audiencia más amplia fue un tema importante
durante los eventos.
“En donde yo nací, contar historias fue inicialmente una costumbre oral, no escrita”, dijo el autor Manuel Matus Manzo.
Los padres de Mantus Manzo no aprendieron a leer ni escribir, él se crió con historias míticas contadas por su tío en la lengua zapoteca. A través de estas historias, aprendió sobre los orígenes de la vida y la manera en que los dioses y diosas se convertían en animales, lo que dio forma a su idea de identidad y agencia.
“La forma en que escribimos esos elementos no importa, ya sea en español o no”, dijo Matus Manzo. La colección de historias en “Oaxaca y más allá”, ejemplifica estos esfuerzos al ofrecer traducciones de las historias página por página entre inglés, español y una historia en lengua zapoteca.
Para muchos miembros de la audiencia escuchar zapoteco en voz alta fue especialmente conmovedor, ya que reavivó recuerdos de la lengua que solían hablar sus abuelos y bisabuelos.
Verse reflejado en estas historias crea una experiencia muy poderosa. La colaboración, confianza y dedicación que implica compartir estas narrativas hace que estos eventos sean significativos, ofreciendo nuevas interpretaciones de culturas cercanas y lejanas. Los autores trajeron un toque de luz al condado de Humboldt, conectando nuestros bosques a los bosques de la Sierra Madre en Oaxaca, y recordándonos la experiencia humana compartida.
*For the english version go to El Leñador's website at Ellenadornews.com.
Photo Caption: Lamberto Roque Hernández, James Ephraim Gaasch, Gayne Rodriguez Guzmán, Manuel Matus Manzo y Cuauhtémoc Peña Vásquez (izquierda a derecha) en Northtown Books presentando la portada de la antología. Foto por Joahnna Tool.
Creative Corner
De tu raíces a su piel bonita, de tu sonrisa a su espíritu
I can't help but get lost in your uncelebrated beauty, like the color brown it is unnoticed.
Tu raíces tiene un belleza que reyes lucharian por.
Piel morena
like the dirt, is overlooked but holds the secret to the beauty in life. Without dirt there is no savory food without there are no fluorescent flowers without dirt there is no life. Con tu piel morena, you give life to those who stare at you so if I cant set my gaze upon you then may I starve to death, may I never take in the sweet smell of roses, and may I regret everyday I continue to live.
With a smile from ear to ear hasta un cara amarga como la mía no puedo evitar sonreír,tu sonrisa es como café, con labios ricos y una voz dulce, nunca quiero dejar tu taza ni quiero que tu copa se caiga.
Ojos café
in darkness they are filled with curiosity but in the sun they shine like amber as ancient as time for even in time I can’t help but lose track as I take a glimpse into your blazing spirit admiring everything that you are and what you will evolve to.
If there ever comes a time that you forget your captivating beauty
I will tell you the histories of the world just to see your eyes shine with wonder I will lift your smile with sweet words so that y confection can make your smile sweet again
I will restore how you see yourself, through sickness and in health, your stomach will never go hungry, your cup will never empty, for I will be your enrichment and elixir so that you may bloom again as Terra does I will defend the roots of your like without doubts nor regret Your elegance is like the color brown, it brings life to my world and if I am the only one that the sees value in the color brown so be it because even the Earth's beauty is overlooked but if I can ignite your heart ablaze with warm emotion and confidence then at least I was able to make you feel love for yourself if not for me
Clases gratuitas
clases de idioma inglÈs en persona en Fortuna
clases de idioma inglÈs en persona en Rio Dell
Principiante a intermedio 14 de septiembre – 14 de diciembre
Los sábados, 11:30 a. m. a 12:30 p. m. Centro de recursos comunitarios
Last minute costume ideas for Halloween!
by El Leñador Staff
Hermes from Hercules White shirt, blue blazer, skinny jeans, boots, mini wings, gold paint, paper and a wooden stick from Michael’s and your are set!
Pirate
Thrift a big hat, white blouse, and some brown pants, add some boots and lots of jewelry, and some eyeliner. You're already twinning with Jack Sparrow, and most pieces you can find in your closet.
Animals
Any dollar tree, halloween store or thrift store will have affordable animal ears or tails. Just wear a cute outfit that goes with the colors of the animal ears or tail and you're an animal!
Powerpuff girls
Looking for a trio costume? How about the powerpuff girls. Each friend picks
¡Ideas de disfraces de última hora para Halloween!
Escrito por El Leñador traducido por Lila S. Hermes de Hércules
Camisa blanca, blazer azul, jeans ajustados, botas, mini alas, pintura dorada, papel y un palo de madera de Michael's y ¡listo!
Pirata
Consigue un sombrero grande, una blusa blanca y unos pantalones marrones de una tienda de segunda mano. Agrega unas botas y muchas joyas, y un poco de delineador de ojos. ¡Ya estás igual a Jack Sparrow, y la mayoría de las piezas las puedes encontrar en tu propio armario!
Animales
Cualquier tienda de Dollar Tree, tienda de Halloween o tienda de segunda mano tendrá orejas o colas de animales a precios cómodos. ¡Solo usa un lindo atuendo que combine con los colores de las orejas o la cola y ya estarás disfrazado de un animal!
Las Chicas Superpoderosas
¿Buscas un disfraz de trío o grupo? ¿Qué tal las chicas superpoderosas? Cada amiga elige qué personaje quiere ser: Bombón, Burbuja o Bellota.
Bellota: top verde, falda verde y cinturón negro.
Burbuja: top azul, falda azul, cinturón negro y coletas.
Bombón: top rosa, falda rosa, cinturón negro y moño rojo con cabello en una cola de caballo.
El clásico fantasma
Consigue una sábana blanca y usa unas tijeras para cortar los agujeros de los ojos. Y bam, ya lo tienes. Ponte unas gafas de sol o un sombrero divertido si te sientes aventurero.
Sim
Para ser un Sim, necesitas un plumbob, más conocido como un diamante o rombo. Un plumbob es la pequeña cosa verde en la parte superior de tu sim para indicar con qué sim estás jugando actualmente. Para hacerlo, imprimes una imagen de papel plumbob con la que puedes hacer un poco de origami. Una vez que el plumbob esté doblado, todo lo que necesita es una diadema y pegamento caliente. ¡Pega ese plumbob a tu diadema y BAM! ¡Eres un Sim!
Campanita y otras hadas
Elige el hada que más te guste, encuentra ropa que coincida con su color característico y ponte un par de alas de hada que puedes encontrar en la tienda de segunda mano y ¡listo!
BIPOC History and Pop Culture Crossword Puzzle
by Joahnna Tool and Alba Galvan
BIPOC & Latine Crossword Puzzle
El Leñador Crossword Contest Rules 1 winner/giveaway
How to play:
Complete the crossword and take a photo or make a copy.
Email it to ellenador.pr@gmail.com.
Your email entry must include your first and last name, a phone number and local address.
Submit your entry on time. Contest begins at noon PT on Thursday, 10/3/24 and ends at noon on Friday, 10/11/24.
Winner Selection & Promotions
One entry per person.
The winner will be selected via a random drawing from responses that are both 100% complete and correct, AND that were submitted on time.
All entries become the property of El Leñador and will not be returned.
Winner will be notified by email and must pick up the prize within 48 hours of notification. Bad emails or incorrect info, failure to pick up, will cause someone else to be declared the winner.
A person can win only once per 20242025 academic year.
Eligibility: must reside in Humboldt County. Current and former El Leñador staff, volunteers and family of El Leñador are not eligible.
The name of the winner may be published on El Leñador’s social media or print edition.
3. Merdith Matthews' position on Arcata City Council
5. CPH Latine cultural center at Cal Poly Humboldt
22. First female president of Mexico
3. Merdith Matthews' position on Arcata City Council?
23. First country in Latin America to abolish slavery
5. CPH cultural center at Cal Poly Humboldt?
7. First woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
6. Singer/songwriter Michelle Zauners band
1. River known for the biggest dam removal in California?
24. Topping served with pupusas
7. First woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
9. Highest point in Humboldt County
8. P in Marsha P Johnson stands for?
2. Which state was the first to legalize voting for women AND elect the first female governor?
25. Mexican Indigenous resistance movement known for face coverings
9. Highest point in Humboldt County?
13. 20th century feminist author writes name in all lowercase?
13. Feminist author, writes name in all lowercase
18. Latine soccer player helped lead their team to their third World Cup title
10. First woman from the Dominican Republic to win a gold medal in any sport
4. What famous Nickelodeon cartoon creator is an HSU alum?
6. Singer/songwriter Michelle Zauner's band
1. River with the biggest dam removal in California
18. Latine soccer player helped lead their team to their third World Cup title
21. Famous dance originated in Jalisco, Mexico
8. The P in Marsha P Johnson stands for?
11. Co-leader of United Farm Workers Association nationwide table grape boycott
12. Wiyot place name for Arcata
10. First woman from the Dominican Republic to win a gold medal in any sport
2. First state to legalize voting for women AND elect the first female governor
4. Famous Nickelodeon cartoon creator, CPH alum
14. Song by Kali Uchis and Karol G, two Colombian singers
15. Well-known tree in Humboldt County
16. Civil rights leader refused Japanese internment during WWII
17. Who coined "Jane Crow" as a response to gendered violence during the Jim Crow Era?
19. CPH professor/author "We Are Dancing For You Native Feminisms & The Revitalization of Women's Coming Of Age Ceremonies”
20. New elected queen of Maori people
Opinion: Vote, your life really depends on it
by Jordan Pangelinan
The year is 2024 and I’m 21 which means I am now eligible to vote for a President. I’ve consciously been through two inaugurations including Donald Trump vs. Hiliary Clinton and Joe Biden vs. Trump. I remember how eerie it was watching both debates and how I felt like I wanted to jump out of my own skin. I was 13 when Trump first announced he was running for office, and I really didn’t know much about anything. But I soon learned from fears of fellow classmates and parents of friends.
Right now our two options are Donald Trump or Kamala Harris. I’ve seen a lot of social media posts explaining why we shouldn’t just drop our vote on Harris. I have to agree and disagree on some statements regarding that. When choosing to vote for a president it is good to criticize both candidates. No government official is going to be the perfect fit. There are always flaws, that shouldn’t give you a reason to take a back seat in this election. However, it is also important to remember that both sides may be evil but Harris isn’t behind the Biden campaign anymore. This is her chance to keep her word and make
the changes she said she would. As for Trump, why is a CONVICTED FELON A PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE????
That is all I will comment on Trump. Voting is the one way we can decide for our country how we want it to look. Stand on business, you have as much of
a say in your local elections as well. Not voting locally for county/city measures affects you much more than you think. It isn’t a form of protest, you’re giving leverage to the opposing side to do whatever they want. There was no fight for a no so they got away with it. It’s the same for presidential candidates.
Opinión: Vota, tu vida depende de ello
Escrito por Jordan Pangelinan traducido por Yocelin Rios
El año es 2024, y tengo 21 años, lo que significa que ahora soy eligble para votar por un presidente. Yo he vivido concientemente dos tomas de posesión, incluyendo Donald Trump contra Hillary Clinton y Joe Biden contra Trump. Recuerdo lo inquientante que fue ver ambos debates y cómo sentía que quería salir de mi propia piel. Yo tenía 13 años cuando Trump anunció por primera vez que se postularía para el cargo, y yo no sabía mucho sobre ello. Pero aprendí rápido con el temor que manifestaban mis compañeros y sus padres. Actualmente nuestras dos opciones son Donald Trump y Kamala Harris. He visto en las redes
sociales publicaciones que explican que no deberíamos simplemente votar por Harris. Yo estoy tanto de acuerdo como en desacuerdo con unas de esas publicaciones. A la hora de elegir un presidente es importante criticar ambos candidatos. Ningún funcionario gubernamental va a ser perfecto. Siempre hay fallas, pero no debe darnos una razón para no participar en esta elección. Sin embargo, también es importante recordar que ambos lados pueden ser malos, pero Harris ya no está detras de la campaña Biden. Esta es su oportunidad para cumplir su palabra y hacer los cambios que dijo que haría. En cuanto a Trump, ¿por qué
un DELINCUENTE CONDENADO ES CANDIDATO A LA PRESIDENCIA?
Esto es todo lo que comentaré sobre Trump.
Votar es la única forma en que podemos decidir cómo queremos que se vea nuestro país. Participen activamente, también tienen voz en las elecciones locales. No votar localmente por las medidas del condado/ciudad afecta mucho más de lo que piensan. No es una forma de protesta, están dando poder al lado opuesto para que haga lo que quiera. No hubo lucha por un no, así que se salen con la suya. Lo mismo ocurre con los candidatos presidenciales.
I’m not going to convince you as to why you should vote for Harris as that is up to you to educate yourself on these policies, her work and her plans. You should not be looking up to your influencers for the answers, social media is not the place to learn about your government.
No voy a convencerlos de por qué deberían votar por Harris, ya que eso depende de cada uno para informarse sobre estas políticas, su trabajo y sus planes. No deberían buscar respuestas en sus influencers, las redes sociales no son el lugar para aprender sobre el gobierno.
Graphic by Jordan Pangelinan | Gráfico por Jordan Pangelinan
Directory Resources for the Latinx Community | Recursos para la comunidad Latinx
Bilingual News
El Leñador
Distributed in Fortuna, Eureka, Arcata, McKinleyville and Trinidad
Social Services Education
Paso a Paso
Provides FREE programs and services, including CalFresh and Healthy Kids Humboldt, childbirth education, breastfeeding support, and parenting classes. Call for an appointment.
Proveyendo a las familias con programas y servicios incluyendo CalFresh y Healthy Kids Humboldt, educación sobre el parto, apoyo a la lactancia materna y clases para padres. Llama para una cita.
2200 Harrison Ave, Eureka (707)441-4477
Food for People
Offers food assistance programs including food pantries, produce markets and nutrition education.
Programas de asistencia incluyendo despensa de alimentos, productos agrícolas y educación sobre la nutrición.
307 W. 14th St., Eureka (707)445-3166
Sacred Heart Church
Catholic mass
Misa católica 2085 Myrtle Avenue, Eureka (707)442-6151
St. Joseph Parish
Catholic mass
Misa Católica 14th and N St., Fortuna (707)725-1148
Chabad of Humboldt
Synagogue
Sinagoga 413 Bayside Ct., Arcata (707)633-8770
Temple Beth El
Synagogue
Sinagoga PO Box 442, Eureka, CA 95502 (707)444-2846
College of the Redwoods (CR) Offers free ESL courses at Eureka, Fortuna and Del Norte sites.
Ofrece cursos gratis de ESL en sus sitios de Eureka, Fortuna y Del Norte. 525 D Street, Eureka (707)476-4500
English Express
Free ESL and citizenship classes for adults in person and online. Registration not required.
Clases gratis de ESL y ciudadanía para adultos en persona o en línea. La Registración no es requerida.
(707)443-5021
Fuente Nueva Charter School
Bilingual school K-12
Escuela bilingual K-12 1730 Janes Rd., Arcata (707)822-3348
Cal Poly Humboldt Cultural Centers
Umoja Center for Pan African Student Excellence
Nelson Hall East 206 (707)826-4588
El Centro Académico Cultural
Nelson Hall East 205 (707)826-4590
Native American Center (ITEPP)
1 Harpst Street, Brero House #93 Arcata, CA 95521 (707)826-3672
Asian, Desi & Pacific Islander Collective (ADPIC)
Nelson Hall East 215/216
Social Justice, Equity, and Inclusion Center (SJEIC)
1 Harpst Street NHE 215 Arcata, CA 95521 (707)826-3364
Entertainment/Arts
Arcata Playhouse
A cultural art hub for the community. Un centro de las artes para la comunidad. 1251 9th St, Arcata, CA 95521 (707)822-1575
Latino Outdoors
An inclusive community that empowers people to explore the outdoors. Una comunidad inclusiva que empodera a la gente a explorar la naturaleza
North Coast Repertory Theatre
300 5th St., Eureka, CA 95501 (707)442-6278
Grocery Markets
Little Japan 2848 F St., Eureka
Oriental Food & Spice
306 W Harris St., Eureka
Asia’s Best 2085 Myrtle Avenue #8, Eureka
La Pasadita Market
420 N St., Eureka
El Pueblo Market Panaderia
312 W. Washington St., Eureka
La Chaparrita Market
520 Summer St., Fortuna (707)617-2570
El Buen Gusto
802 Broadway St., Eureka (707)798-6290 1640 Main St., Fortuna (707)725-8880
Legal Services
The Superior Court of California | County of Humboldt “Self Help Center” Legal rights information regardless of income.
Información sobre derechos legales a pesar de ingreso. 421 I St., Eureka CA 95501 (707)445-7256
Legal Services of Northern California
Serving clients with civil legal issues. Ayudando a clientes con asuntos de la ley civil. 123 3rd St., Eureka (707)445-0866
Scholars Without Borders
Cal Poly Humboldt club that supports undocumented, DACAmented and AB540 students
Balabanis House 55 Room 203 707-826-3368
California Indian Legal Services
Deliver effective, high-quality services to uniquely respond to the needs of the Native American community.
324 F St., Eureka (707)443-8397
Cal Poly Humboldt Student Legal Lounge
Center for peer mentoring and legal resources for academic, activism, discrimination, housing, Title IX and DACA Centro
1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA (707)826-4221
Community Groups
True North Organizing Network
Supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds.
517 3rd St., Suite 16, Eureka
Seventh Generation Fund
Devoted to Indigenous peoples selfdetermination and the sovereignty of Native Nations
2355 Central Ave., Suite C, McKinleyville
Centro Del Pueblo
A safe space for the raza/indígena community to prosper culturally, politically, and practically on the North Coast cdphumboldt@gmail.com
HAPI
Humboldt Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity builds and empowers community. hapi.humboldt@gmail.com
NAACP
Working to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination.
P.O. Box 1434, Eureka, CA 95502 707-502-2546
Black Humboldt
The mission is to enlighten, empower and entertain our Black community. 627 3rd St Eureka CA 95501 (707)-840-4641