The Lumberjack



Students Serving The Cal Poly Humboldt Campus and Community Since 1929

Tag: october

  • LJ reporter Anthony Aragon ranks local, Oktoberfest inspired beers

    LJ reporter Anthony Aragon ranks local, Oktoberfest inspired beers

    With public gatherings limited, Oktoberfest celebrations are confined to the crib this year

    October has become synonymous with leaves changing colors, pumpkin spice lattes and the beloved “spooky season.”

    Amongst the spirited festivities exclusive to fall, one tradition reigns supreme in the hearts of many beer lovers around the world: Oktoberfest. With the absence of Halloween parties, pumpkin patches and Oktoberfest festivals this year, October just feels different.

    Though many of the celebrations and fairs that pay homage to German heritage have been canceled to lower the spread of COVID-19, beer drinkers around the world are rushing to store shelves in hopes of tasting commemorative ales from their favorite breweries.

    Fortunately for Humboldt County residents and Humboldt State University students who enjoy the occasional pint between study sessions, there is no shortage of local craft breweries pumping out beer to consume year-round. The assortment of IPA’s, lagers, ales and sours offered at the local brew houses are guaranteed to satisfy the most fastidious of beer connoisseurs.

    On Sun., Oct. 18, I visited Redwood Curtain Brewing Co. in Arcata, hoping to sample a variety of brews that compliment the changing seasons. Unfortunately, RCBC is taking a breather on concocting their traditional German inspired lagers that are usually available this time of the year.

    Refusing to leave in defeat, employee Chris Galleron, assisted me in scouring their selection to find some substitutes that are adequate for any at home Oktoberfest celebration. I left with three crawlers filled with different brews ready to be enjoyed, a nice change of pace from cases of Pabst Blue Ribbon and poorly crafted mixed drinks most of us endear in our college careers.

    First up was Muddy Nut Bush, which is made in collaboration with Muddy Waters Coffee Company in the neighboring city McKinleyville.

    At first glance I was taken back by the idea of a coffee infused beer, especially one that utilizes a rather potent cold brew. My original expectations were tainted by long nights during finals week, where caffeine fuels overnight cramming sessions and last minute procrastination. The nutty beer is infused with Muddy Water’s cold brew, which delivers a smooth and robust finish at 4.2 percent ABV. I found myself pleasantly surprised by the aroma of this one, the coffee notes derived from the cold brew creates a rather sweet flavor that is subtle yet delicious.

    Next up, in the second generous sized canister was Logger in the Dark. This international dark logger is Redwood Curtain’s closest comparable option to a traditional German Lager.

    Logger in the Dark is exceptionally balanced despite its amber color and bright aroma. Malty notes complimented the sweet hints of caramel and chocolate. By no means lacking flavor, this dark beer delivers a dessert like taste without overpowering your palette coming in at 4.4 percent ABV. This dark beer is perfect to pair with a warm, hearty meal on a cold autumn evening in Humboldt.

    Last up in our three pack of crafted malt elixirs was my personal favorite, Sticky Fingers IPA. This Indiana Pale Ale is affectionately named after the long lasting crop Humboldt County is infamous for.

    This beer is the hoppiest of our three picks, but possibly the most flavorful. The crisp hazy tones of Sticky Fingers is balanced by the bright citrus hues that are tasted at the end of each sip. A Redwood Curtain favorite amongst its customers, this IPA is sure to please anyone looking for an ale with a bite. Measuring in at 6.1 percent ABV, this brew will definitely give you a run for your money, creating a mellow sensation for drinkers.

    Regardless of how different things might look this fall, the spirit of Oktoberfest lives throughout Humboldt County. So, grab a pint of your favorite local brew, hold your glass up high and cheers to the uncertainty this year has presented us with.

  • COVID-19 isolation increases domestic violence

    COVID-19 isolation increases domestic violence

    October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

    COVID-19 social distancing has increased the demand on local domestic violence services according to some professionals in the field.

    Locally a 27-year-old Asian woman was forced into a car at gun point in Fieldbrook, seven miles north of Arcata, on Aug. 4, and returned safe after the suspect, a 43-year-old George Rose, previously known to the victim, turned himself in after fleeing the state to Oregon.

    In nearby Mendocino, Khadijah Britton, a member of the Round Valley Indian Tribes, was forced into a car at gun point on Feb. 7 2018, allegedly by her ex-boyfriend. Britton is still missing and there is a $50,000 reward for information on her location.

    Stephanie Weldon, Humboldt State University social work masters graduate and Yurok Tribe member, was the director of the Yurok Tribe Department of Health and Human Services until August and currently is a consultant for state and federal agencies on tribal social services.

    Weldon said the tribe received increased calls related to domestic violence as the shelter in place orders went into place in March, and she has heard anecdotes from clients regarding the challenges that COVID-19 places on an already underserved population of victims.

    Brenda Bishop, executive director of Humboldt Domestic Violence Services, and HSU alumna, said “Rape culture is very alive and well on [HSU] campus.” The HDVS runs a 24/7 emergency domestic violence hotline which has had a reduction in the number of calls.

    Bishop said she suspects this is related to the difficulty for victims to make personal phone calls for help while living in close quarters with their abusers.

    Bishop does not believe the reduced number of calls reflects a reduction in domestic violence incidents, and in fact may indicate victims are in increased danger.

    Bishop said domestic violence includes intimate partner sexual violence and sex trafficking which may start as intimate partner violence.

    “We see a lot of HSU women that get involved in trafficking as well,” Bishop said. Usually this occurs through intimate partner violence with non-students, but sometimes with other students as well.

    Lundy Bancroft, author of an Amazon bestseller, “Why Does He Do That? Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men,” said in an abuser’s mind everything is about winning and losing and the woman is not seen as having equal rights, her purpose is to satisfy his needs.

    Abusive partners can be even more violent when victims try and leave, or immediately after they leave.

    “The attitude abusers exhibit in this type of violence when women attempt to leave their partners is, ‘she must have to pay for my unhappiness,’” Bancroft said.

    About double the number of women were killed by current or ex-male partners than US soldiers died in Iraq and Afghanistan between 2001 and 2012, 11,766 and 6,488 respectively, according to a report by the Huffington Post.

    Police historically do not treat domestic violence as a crime but as a private matter meaning many incidents are not reported. Victims have expressed that they feel their reports are not taken seriously by police.

    Entrenched sexist bias is compounded by race. Weldon said, “You can’t talk about trauma without talking about race. How can you talk about a mission to wipe [Native American] people out, without talking about the impact that has had on those communities?”

    The structure of tribal police, which rely onUS police to cross-deputize the force and certify criminal charge procedures, aren’t able to collect tax revenue that could improve investigative work.

    “You go from no response and no intervention to overreaction where a ton of [non-tribal] law enforcement shows up because it’s a known family name,” Weldon said.

    According to the Institute For Women’s Policy Research, Black women are two and a half times more likely to be murdered by men than their White counterparts.

    Meanwhile, according to the study “Race and the Likelihood of Intimate Partner Violence Arrest and Dual Arrest,” non-white female victims of intimate partner violence are less likely to have their perpetrators arrested by police.

    Guns in the home increase the deadliness of domestic violence incidents. According to Giffords Law Center, “Guns kept in the home are more likely to be involved in a fatal or nonfatal unintentional shooting, criminal assault or suicide attempt than to be used to injure or kill in self-defense. Rather than conferring protection, guns in the home are associated with an increased risk of homicide by a family member or intimate acquaintance.”

    Bishop encouraged victims to call the 24/7 hour HDVS hotline for resources and emergency help.

    Bishop believes the most important thing for people in domestic violence situations is to feel supported and hear affirmation.

    “We believe you,” Bishop said. “And the longer you’ve been in abusive relationships the harder it is to make that call.”

  • 6 Movies to Watch for Spooky SZN

    6 Movies to Watch for Spooky SZN

    In preparation for Halloween and Dia de los Muertos, these six movies are fun to watch with family and friends

    October is notoriously known as spooky season, and in honor of Halloween and Dia de los Muertos, here are six of my favorite movies to get in the mood. So put on some warm socks and grab some snacks before curling up to watch these six Halloween movie picks!

    “Coraline”

    If you’re looking for something that’s creepy and cute, this movie is perfect for you. the beginning features a stop-motion scene of a doll being created and is extremely satisfying. Just remember to always say no if someone asks you sew buttons on your eyes.

    “Hocus Pocus”

    A Halloween classic. If you’re craving a typical Halloween movie with witches and pumpkins this movie is just right. From nasty spells to heart warming, original Disney songs, it makes you want to cuddle up and grab some popcorn.

    “Monster House”

    A highly underrated movie that more people should really check out. This one falls on the scarier side as far as kids’ movies go, with jump scares and eery twists. If you’re easily scared and looking for a good laugh this movie is your match.

    “Corpse Bride”

    One of my favorite movies of all time. Corpse Bride is classic, creepy Tim Burton at its finest. The film’s beautiful animation and captivating storyline will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Everything about this movie is heartwarming and worth the watch.

    “Nightmare Before Christmas”

    This might be one of the most overrated movies on the list, but it is a forever classic. If you’re one of those who begins prepping for the Christmas season right after Halloween, then this movie suits you like no other. If you enjoy fun animation and musicals this movie then this is likely already on your list. Combining both holidays into one has never been better, because of course, two is always better than one.

    “Twitches”

    This iconic throwback Disney movie stars the famous twins, Tia and Tamara Mowry. Twitches gives you the munchies, so get cozy and grab those snacks because you’re in for a spell. And if you’re watching with a sibling or a close friend this heartwarming movie can be a lovely bonding moment.

  • Perpetuating Stereotypes Ain’t Cute

    Perpetuating Stereotypes Ain’t Cute

    Costumes that perpetuate stereotypes of cultures and minorities aren’t funny, they’re problematic

    The Halloween season provokes the competitive nature of costume shopping, but costumes that display a person’s culture, religion and tradition should remain off-limits.

    Costumes based off of Native American, Latinx, Asian, Middle Eastern and African cultures are appropriation, plain and simple. Feathered headdresses, beads and tassels don’t adequately reflect the entirety of Native American culture. Just as Egyptian culture is more than gold jewelry and eyeliner. These costumes are tasteless, especially if you aren’t from the cultures you’re dressing up as.

    While these are the obvious examples of appropriation, other costumes can still be offensive even if they aren’t directly ripping off a culture.

    Other costumes that take advantage of different lifestyles, religions and customs include nuns, priests, inmates and military personnel.

    The intentions behind a costume should be highly considered. You need to remain mindful of how you choose to display an idea to ensure you aren’t being offensive to any culture.

    Cultures can’t be boiled down to a single costume, accessory or prop, so don’t wear anything that diminishes a significant part of someone’s life just for some laughs or notoriety.

    The appropriation of cultures are so often portrayed in an ignorant and blind fashion that fail to value the importance and significance behind an item being used purely as an accessory. By appropriating a culture or religion with a costume you’re perpetuating ignorance and preventing the education of how to accurately respect and represent people.

    Costumes that appropriate heritage and traditions pick and choose aspects of a culture purely for entertainment purposes. These ultimately cast a stereotypical image that fails to accurately reflect reality.

    The transition from culture into costume disregards past movements, practices and emotions experienced by those who are being appropriated. Costumes often fail to reflect the original garments through the commercializing process, furthermore disrespecting the authenticity.

    You should be able to decipher which outfits are appropriate and which are inappropriate. If not, you shouldn’t consider these ideas as viable costume options.

    If you’re questioning whether or not your costume choice is offensive, put yourself into the shoes of someone who genuinely practices what you’re posing in.

    Be a critical thinker. Before attending a Halloween party or heading out, check the fit. Examine your decisions, and if it feels unethical or immoral, don’t wear it. That’s it.

  • A Pumpkin of Possibilities

    A Pumpkin of Possibilities

    4 ways to make the most out of your pumpkin this season

    They’re hard, wonky looking and often suffer from an acute case of the warts. Pumpkins are the fruit of October and epitomize the Halloween season. Here are four ways to get the most use out of your pumpkin.

    Photo courtesy of Pixabay

    1. Carving a Jack-O’-Lantern

    Jack-o’-lanterns are the most recognizable use for pumpkins. Local stores typically have all types of pumpkins available, differing in sizes and colors. Before choosing a pumpkin, be mindful of the design you want to fit onto the pumpkin.

    First, prepare a large surface with a mat or towel to minimize the mess. Then, equip yourself with a knife, a large spoon and a container for pumpkin flesh. A serrated knife with teeth will work best for cutting through thick pumpkin skin, while a paring knife works best for the smaller details of your design.

    Begin by cutting out a lid from the top of your pumpkin, and set it aside for later. Dig out the pumpkin flesh and seeds with a large spoon, and if you are interested in eating the seeds, save them in a container. Now for the fun part- carve out your design: a face, an animal, a monster or anything else that catches your fancy. If cutting straight lines is challenging, printing out a design and attaching it to the pumpkin with tape can help.

    Photo courtesy of Pixabay

    2. Compostable Plant Pot

    Instead of a jack-o’-lantern, turn a pumpkin into a compostable pumpkin planter. Save an extra step in the transplanting process by using a pumpkin planter as a naturally decomposing pot.

    Just like carving a jack-o’-lantern, cut an opening at the top of the pumpkin with a serrated knife. Feel free to decorate the plant pot by carving your own patterns on the surface of the pumpkin pot. After hollowing out the pumpkin with a spoon, just like a regular transplant, take a plant from its nursery pot and replant it with soil in the pumpkin.

    The plant should grow beautifully if loved and cared for. As the pumpkin ages, an eventual transplant of the whole pumpkin into the ground will take place, decomposing and fertilizing the area.

    Photo courtesy of Creative Commons

    3. Prepare Mashed Pumpkin Puree

    It’s a fact of life that some pumpkins just aren’t made for pie. The carving of the pumpkin contains flesh that is very fibrous and may not produce the best tasting pie. You can use puree in dishes like pumpkin pie and pumpkin soup.

    To prep, cut your pumpkin in half and take out stringy fibers and seeds. One and a half pounds of raw pumpkin will yield two cups of pumpkin puree. And again, if you want to eat the seeds, save them for roasting later.

    Cut the cleaned pumpkin into chunks and put them into a saucepan with one inch of boiling water. Turn the heat to low and throw on a cover to simmer for half an hour. Once the pumpkin is tender, drain the water and remove the peel. Use a potato masher to smash the pumpkins into a puree. The fresh pumpkin will last three days in the refrigerator, or months frozen.

    Photo courtesy of Creative Commons

    4. Roasting Seeds

    By virtue of carving, cooking or smashing pumpkins, you’ll eventually be left with a bunch of little pumpkin seeds. In their final, toasted form, pumpkin seeds are a delicious, high protein and high fiber snack.

    With your leftover pumpkin guts, separate the seeds from the stringy flesh. Run water over the seeds in a strainer or colander to make this process easier. Pat the seeds dry to ensure a crispy crunch.

    Grab two or three tablespoons of a favorite cooking oil or butter, and add any additional spices your taste buds may desire. Classic salt and pepper works well, too. Mix and spread over a baking sheet, and make sure to line the baking sheet with aluminum foil to help with cleanup.

    In a single layer, spread the clean and dried pumpkin seeds on the baking sheet. Throw it in the oven at 200°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 or so minutes. When the timer ends, turn up the heat to 325°F for five minutes to finish the seeds with a nice crisp.