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Clubbing Around: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Roman Solorio and Rowan Morales
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Clubbing Around: Finding Your Perfect Fit

On Monday, August 31st, Ukiah High School hosted its annual Clubs Rush, where students received information about different clubs on campus. This year’s featured clubs were History Travel, French Club, Needle Point, Interact, First Responders, Chess Club, Environmental, Latino, Poetry, MESA, Wild Minds, Scrubs Care Club, Girls Wrestling, Ukiahilite, Science Olympiad, and Women’s Empowerment.

The UHS News Team asked club representatives how the event helps students get involved with their school. Junior Orion Morales, representing the First Responders Club, shared, “Clubs Rush helps students find what they like or what they could potentially do as a hobby. Many people who are interested in fire, EMS, or policing can come to the First Responders Club and learn more about it.” 

We asked Morales to describe how he felt about his club, and he responded, “My favorite thing is doing the standbys.” He described that standbys are when club members help at local sporting events, like football games, and treat athletes who get injured. He further expressed that he likes these opportunities “because you can use your training and you can ask questions to the doctors and EMS” who are there to guide the students.

A young male stands next to a stretcher with a person lying on it, covered with yellow pants, under a tent at an outdoor setting.
Orion Morales. Photo Credit: Rowan Morales

Junior Alexander Gonzalez Lopez, representing Club Latino, shared that he thinks Clubs Rush “is just a way to get people interested in being part of the community.” He also shared that clubs “drive volunteering and participation.” Gonzalez Lopez’ favorite thing about Club Latino is: “I have the chance to hang out with people I wouldn’t have known. I get to be with people from my community, my culture. I am given the opportunity to experience different parts of the world.”

A group of students smiling and posing for a photo in front of a colorful piñata at an event. Some individuals are making peace signs, while others are holding snacks and drinks.
Club Latino. Photo Credit: Roman Solorio

Birdwatching did not have a table at Clubs Rush, but Junior Athena Udarbe, representing the Birdwatching Club, said, “Every club is unique and has something different for [students’] interests.” She also emphasized that students aren’t limited to joining at Clubs Rush and can join during Clubs Day. “You also get to meet different people and possibly even make new friends when joining.” Udarbe’s favorite part about birdwatching is, “Our advisor takes us off campus to look around our own community and learn about the wildlife that we don’t usually notice every day…It’s a club that helps you learn more about our local community and maybe even see birds differently too.”

These are just three of the many clubs that UHS has to offer. Joining a club helps students form new friendships and experience new things within their school community. Clubs can also boost creativity and productivity, two of our ICPC pillars. So, find your perfect fit, or consider making your own club with friends. 

Join us in the Quad at lunch on Thursday, September 17 for the first Clubs Day of the 26-27 school year!

Please note: Other active clubs at UHS that did not participate in Clubs Rush include: 

  • Art Club
  • DnD Club
  • Drama Club
  • FFA Club
  • Native American Youth Club
  • Psychology Club
  • Wildcat Writer’s Association
  • Yearbook Club

A Dominant Debut: Wildcats Crush Their Opponents in the Season Opener

Robby Corippo and Santi Andrade Rincon
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A Dominant Debut: Wildcats Crush Their Opponents in the Season Opener

The Wildcats gave a stunning performance last Friday, outscoring the Orland Trojans by 36 points. This win was a product of their hard work and dedication, giving fans a preview of what could be an incredible season.  

Friday’s win was a natural result based on their hard work during pre-season. With help from Dante Giacomini, Jayden Bird, Dylan Morris, Malachi Dennington, Noah McAvoy, and the offensive line, Ukiah pulled off an impressive 50-14 win. 

Star running back Dante Giaccomini was responsible for the majority of the Wildcats’ points, scoring four touchdowns and rushing 67 yards. Dante, entering his third year on Varsity, has proved vital to both the offense and defense this year. 

Dante Giaccomini, running back. Photo Credit: Alekki Sandoval 

The UHS News Team asked Giacomini when he started playing this position, and he shared, “This wasn’t my first time playing running back; I played all throughout youth football, but that was my first time playing running back in high school. So, luckily, I had some previous experience.” 

Next, we asked how he thought the team would perform this season. Dante said, “I think if we stay consistent and keep having great weeks of practice like we did this past week, we can be a great team and have an opportunity to play in December,” which is when playoffs are scheduled.

To conclude, UHS News asked Giacomini to reflect on scoring four touchdowns. He stated, “I honestly had many doubts going in…but I can’t thank our linemen enough because they did the dirty work. Shoutout to all of them.”

Jayden Bird’s debut as quarterback was also impressive. He threw for 146 yards and two touchdowns. Bird, a multi-sport athlete, is a part of Ukiah’s Junior class. His athleticism and knowledge of the game allow him to maneuver the field and make amazing plays with ease.

Jayden Bird, quarterback. Photo Credit: Alekki Sandoval 

The offensive line was key to Ukiah’s offensive explosion. Without their performance, the game would have been much closer. Colton Gaylord reflected, “ We dominated the line of scrimmage and pushed them back every play.” 

Friday night’s game showed us the bright season that the Wildcats have ahead of them. Their combination of elite defense and strong offense will make them a difficult team to beat. 

Tomorrow, the boys face Arcata High in an away game. The next home game will be on Friday, September 11.

Join us in supporting our football players!

Welcome Back, Ukiah High! Wildcats Celebrate Our Return to School With a Rally

Josette Mealey, Paisley Wood and Sarae Lorenzo
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Welcome Back, Ukiah High! Wildcats Celebrate Our Return to School With a Rally

Last Friday was the first rally of the school year, welcoming back old students and introducing the freshmen to Ukiah High spirit. Throughout the rally, Wildcats competed in fun games, saw some amazing performances, and heard an inspiring welcome-back speech from our principal, Mr. Riedel. 

To start off the rally, students from each class volunteered to play a Tic-Tac-Toe Relay Race. In the end, seniors took the first win of the year.

Students running during the first relay race. Photo Credit: Josette Mealey

The second game of the morning was Musical Dots. Similar to Musical Chairs, students competed to get to each dot in time before the music stopped. There was excitement in the crowd as it was a close call between the sophomore and senior classes. Ultimately, the seniors took another win. 

Students walking in a circle during Musical Dots. Photo Credit: Josette Mealey

A highlight from the rally was a performance from our Golden Cats Dance Team. The Golden Cats performed to music from Kendrick Lamar’s 2025 Super Bowl Half-Time show. Students in the audience cheered for their friends and classmates throughout the dance, bringing a supportive energy to the rally. At the end, the Golden Cats held up a sign welcoming our new Principal, Mr. Riedel, to Ukiah High.

Golden Cats Dance Team members Dallas Courtney, Janice Gomez, and Juliette Shephard welcoming our new principal. Photo Credit: Savannah Kram

Guess the Price was another collaborative activity. Class representatives received input from their classmates in the bleachers to correctly guess the price of an item. A price that stumped most was the cotton candy machine, reaching up to a costly $200.

Willy holding a piñata during Guess the Price. Photo Credit: Josette Mealey

The rally introduced Wildcats to a new game: the Magic Blanket Ride. This was another relay, but without using legs! Participants had to use blankets to drag each other across the gym floor instead. Students were excited to cheer on their fellow classmates during this race.   

The Magic Blanket Ride. Photo Credit: Josette Mealey

To conclude the rally, Mr. Riedel shared a few words with the student body by emphasizing the importance of getting involved in something on campus. Whether it’s through a club, leadership, or a sport, he hopes that all students will find a place where they feel like they belong. 

Mr. Riedel speaking to the student body to end the Rally. Photo Credit: Savannah Kram

Thank you, Wildcat Nation, for such an upbeat start to the year. See you at the next rally!

A Fond Farewell: Reflections on Dr. Alvarez’s Time at Ukiah High

UHS News Staff
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A Fond Farewell: Reflections on Dr. Alvarez’s Time at Ukiah High

As the 2025-2026 school year comes to a close, we must say goodbye to our beloved seniors, teachers, and, this year, our principal. During her term, Dr. Analese Alvarez has fostered a positive attitude and made significant contributions to our UHS community. To send her off with a proper goodbye, the Ukiah High News Team asked staff to reflect on their time with Dr. Alvarez and the impact she has had on Wildcat Nation. 

Chris Douthit, Chair of the English Department and Director of the Drama Department, shared, “Dr. Alvarez has been a very big supporter of the Drama program and has helped me to facilitate some important changes and get some materials that we desperately needed. I thank her for that.” 

Douthit continued with the impact Alvarez has had at Ukiah High: “She really accentuated focusing on positive things. For example, she began staff meetings with an opportunity to celebrate victories from around the school, and people have become accustomed to doing this.” 

He also expressed his regret about Alvarez’s departure: “It’s a shame that she’s leaving now because I feel like we were all just getting to know her, and it’s a bummer that we won’t be able to get to know her more.”

Adam Lane, Chair for the Science Department, highlighted how Dr. Alvarez’s contributions to the new bell schedule have led to more beneficial tutoring for his Chemistry students. He added, “She also helped to shepherd better practices in grading within departments.” 

Lane noted Dr. Alvarez’s attendance at some of the Science Olympiad competitions. “It’s been really neat to see a principal support extracurriculars.” He added, “She’s been very supportive of all of the labs and activities we like to do, including the science department’s demonstrations.” 

Gretel Palmerin, a member of the Math Department, shared her experience and memories with Dr. Alvarez, praising her for the accomplishment of U-Time and its impact on her department. “I’ve been able to make a lot of use out of U-Time, like really trying to target students who need help,” said Palmerin. 

She continued with a memory during Dr. Alvarez’s first year on campus, and the immediate support she offered to Palmerin after hearing about her personal hardships. “I was not expecting her to want to listen to what was going on in my life. It showed me that she wanted to know and that she cared.” Palmerin concluded, “I really appreciated that about her.”

Andrea Tarin shared her favorite part about being Dr. Alvarez’s assistant. “I feel very safe being open and honest with her. We’ve bonded together. We have some similarities and differences, but overall we work really well together and trust each other.”

Tarin said that during her time here, “Alvarez pushed to have student voices heard and be considered more within decisions made on campus.” She further expressed, “Unless students are running for office, we don’t consider that there are a lot of other voices–not in ASB–with opinions that also need to be heard.”

Tarin’s favorite memory of being Dr. Alvarez’s assistant was “the little jokes” they shared, and some similarities in music and TV shows. She explains, “We have some nerd-out moments. She’s a much more accomplished nerd than I am, but, you know, we’re both Buffy fans.”

Tarin closed by saying that she will miss “the ease of the relationship. It’s always hard to start over with any relationship. I greatly appreciate her time here, and she will be missed.”

The News Team sat down with Dr. Alvarez for a final interview to reflect on the special memories she has and what she hopes to leave behind for Wildcats. 

We asked Alvarez to reflect on her accomplishments while at UHS. “I think the biggest one would have to be our bell schedule. When I started in 2023, I worked with the teacher leaders on campus and with the district to keep a form of block schedule while also embedding U-time.” 

Dr. Alvarez also brought up Minga, a school-based app for all Ukiah High Students that helps disperse important information. She expressed her enthusiasm for Wildcats’ engagement with Minga: “It’s exciting that a student might log into a school app on the weekend and look at the school calendar or see some sort of event that’s going on.” Alvarez hopes that after she is gone, students will continue to utilize Minga because it helps them feel more connected to campus. 

She told us that her favorite part of being principal was “how welcomed I was by the school and the community.” She also noted how Ukiah High has “great bones” when describing the previously established systems that made changes such as the new schedule and Minga more successful than the schools she’s been with prior. 

Back when Dr. Alvarez first arrived, UHS News asked her to share one thing she was most excited to experience, and she said homecoming. We asked her if homecoming lived up to her expectations, and she replied: “I would say it exceeded my expectations because I’ve been an educator now for 26 years, and this is the fifth high school I’ve been at, and none of them are anywhere close to this.” 

She continued, “In Vegas, they had floats per class, but it wasn’t a class competition. They just made floats, and they drove them around the track on homecoming night. Everywhere has homecoming dances, so that was the same, but the week-long activities, the competition, and the warehouses,  the whole thing, totally exceeded my expectations. I likely will not land anywhere again that has all of this stuff.”

Dr. Alvarez also shared that she wished she could have achieved more. “I know I’m leaving early. I wanted a minimum of five years, and unfortunately, it’s just not working out that way.” 

Even though she is leaving, Dr. Alvarez was excited to share an exclusive with us for the upcoming school year: “We are going to have a wellness center on campus next year. So we’re setting that up now. And the idea is that it’s a place that all students can go to if they need social, emotional, and mental health support.”

She also noted that the wellness center will be a collaboration between the Leadership, Frosh Advisory, Peer Counseling, and Campus Culture classes. 

To conclude, we asked Dr. Alvarez what she’s learned during her term as the UHS Principal. She highlighted, “I’ve learned that when you have a really good school, it’s really easy to come in and be a principal and bring in some ideas and work together with people.”  The message she hopes to leave behind is, “This is a really good school filled with really passionate teachers and really passionate employees.”

During our interview, it was made clear that this decision isn’t easy for Dr. Alvarez. We shared a heartfelt moment with her at the conclusion of the conversation. She ended with, “I’m sad that I’m leaving now. Ukiah’s a great place to be, and this school’s a great place to be. Obviously, I have to go help with my mom, who’s not well. But I’m very excited for the future of the school, even though I’m not going to be part of it.”

Ukiah High thanks Dr. Alvarez for her years of service and commitment to our school community and wishes her success in all future endeavors. 

And as Dr. Alvarez always says, Gooooo Wildcats!

Senior Highlight: Amy Hernandez Mendoza’s Advice to Future Wildcats

Audriena Ramos
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Senior Highlight: Amy Hernandez Mendoza’s Advice to Future Wildcats

As we wrap the year up and graduation approaches, we are reminded of the Seniors who will be leaving us. For Senior Amy Hernandez Mendoza, these four years were more than just class and homework; they were a time of self-discovery and personal growth. 

Hernandez Mendoza is a bright student who exceeds expectations and pushes herself academically, while also taking advantage of the opportunities UHS offers outside of core subjects. She has completed the Construction CTE pathway and is currently enrolled in woodworking. She combined her love for building with her AP Calculus class, where she built a ukulele for a final project. 

A young woman smiles while holding an unfinished ukulele made of wood in a workshop, with various tools and materials visible on the table.
Amy Hernandez with her homemade ukulele

Reflecting on her freshman year, Hernandez Mendoza says her biggest regret is not joining a club or being involved in campus activities sooner. She stresses the importance of connecting with other students early on in high school so “You know you have someone to support you.”

Wishing she had a supportive community during her freshman year, Hernandez Mendoza encouraged students to explore different activities, whether that be sports, arts, electives, or clubs, “anything you could connect with people on.” She explained that Freshman year is a “perfect chance to explore anything and everything.” 

However, she also cautions students against overwhelming themselves by committing to too many activities at once. Instead, she believes students should spend time exploring a wide variety of interests before dedicating themselves to what they’re most passionate about. Through this, students can discover what matters most to them, and she describes this as a crucial step towards “discovering your values.” 

Through this process, she found that she enjoys helping others, and for this reason, Link Crew, a program that helps freshmen adjust to high school, was the perfect fit. She found it easy to understand and sympathize with students who are going through the same challenges she once faced, so she joined the program at the close of her freshman year.

During Sophomore year, she became more involved in school functions and really came out of her shell. This confidence pushed Hernandez Mendoza to try out for the basketball team, where she realized the importance of sports on students’ confidence and self-esteem. 

Basketball was her escape from the stress of school, and she encourages students to find activities that help with their mental well-being. 

The drama class also played an important role in shaping her self-confidence. Through improv, she learned, “Life is unpredictable, and you have to be able to adapt.” She says these lessons have helped her manage stress and become more comfortable handling unexpected situations. 

Learning to deal with anxiety proved to be incredibly useful during her Junior year, which she realized was much more stressful than she anticipated. She had to juggle many things at once: school, a job, friends, homework, and home life, which often felt overwhelming.   

However, she recognizes the importance of taking on challenges in high school, mentioning, “the experience taught me responsibility.” This has helped her grow as a person, and as she described, it’s one big “step towards adulthood.”

Now at the end of her senior year, Hernandez Mendoza shares bittersweet feelings. She’s happy to see friends leaving for college and has accepted that they will “eventually have to say goodbye.” Friends aren’t the only thing she’s going to miss; she will also miss the high school. “I’m no longer going to wake up and go to this place that I’ve grown attached to.” 

Overall, she describes the high school years as a turning point in life, saying, “It’s a chance for you to explore and figure out who you are as a person.” 

For Hernandez Mendoza, one of the most important and admirable characteristics of a successful student is their work ethic. Trying your hardest is one of the best ways to prove to yourself that you are making the most of your time. As she puts it, “If you’re trying your best, then you’re not lying to yourself.” 

She believes that her experience and what she has learned at Ukiah High have influenced how she sees her future. After much thought, she tells students that high school is a perfect time to “learn your morals and beliefs [and] know who you are.” 

After high school, Hernandez Mendoza plans to complete her prerequisite classes at Mendocino College and then transfer to a larger university to study genetics. She has noticed that because we live in a rural area, “We don’t have a lot of clinics nearby, and not a lot of services that some people need.” She hopes to give back to her community and offer local opportunities in the future. 

Caring for others is an important value of hers, and has prompted her to pursue these goals. She traces her love for helping others back to what she has learned here at Ukiah High, which taught her to leave a positive impact on the world. A favorite piece of advice that Hernandez Mendoza once received was, “make the experience for the next generation a little bit better.”  

Amy Hernandez Mendoza will be graduating with her classmates on June 5th, and while bittersweet, she is ready for the next step in life. Through her time here at Ukiah High, she discovered the importance of community and helping others; lessons she hopes future students will carry with them as they begin their own journeys. 

Feature photo credit: Savannah Kram

Ukiah Wildcat Makes it to the Big Leagues

Salvio Senerchia
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Ukiah Wildcat Makes it to the Big Leagues

Nine years after graduating from UHS, Devin Kirby has signed a contract with the Athletics! Prior to his signing, he attended Santa Rosa Junior College before transferring to the University of Connecticut. Starting in 2023, Kirby played for various Minor and Major League teams, and on May 22, 2026, he signed with the A’s. Kirby’s new deal is finally bringing him back from the East Coast and closer to home.

Kirby shared, “This Signing with the A’s means a lot for me because it gives me reassurance that what I have been doing and the work I have been putting in hasn’t gone unnoticed.” He continued, “And for my family, it shows I haven’t stopped giving up on the dream, and I’m determined to continue working hard.”

Kirby gave insight into what it has taken to get here: “A lot of hard work. It took a lot of failure and recognizing how to correct it. A lot of late nights lifting and understanding who I am as a pitcher. A lot of phone calls with my wife.” 

“This road I have been on has had many more valleys than peaks. But that is how it is when you want the dream so bad; I had to find love for the game again,” Kirby said. 

He shared that becoming a professional athlete required more than excellence on the field; it also required hard work in the classroom and a strong support system. Kirby stated, “One thing I would tell myself when things felt very hard is be who you are, not who someone wants you to be.” 

Additionally, mentality has been a key to success, and his message to upcoming athletes is clear: “Work hard on and off the field. It’s very simple, but in reality, if you want the dream, you need to continue working when no one is watching.” 

From suffering with injuries and needing surgery to getting released twice in a year, Kirby’s path after high school has not been easy. However, he is a testament to the fact that coming from a small town with big dreams may be difficult, but it is never impossible. He hopes that his success story and continued dedication will inspire generations of Wildcats to come. 

A baseball pitcher in a blue jersey prepares to throw a pitch from the mound, with players in the foreground and grass field in the background.
Devin Kirby pitching for the Blue Crabs. Photo Credit: Eric Wilcox

Seniors and UHS baseball players Beau David and George Gibbs shared their excitement for Kirby’s success. Beau stated, “His journey showed me to never give up. Devin had a lot of setbacks, but he didn’t let it affect him. He never quit. He kept his head down and continued to grind.” 

George added, “Devin is inspirational to me because his path is similar to the one I’m trying to follow. This is what I dream of doing and working for, and so he is someone for me to look up to.” Beau echoed a similar sentiment: “Devin’s journey gives me hope and comfort that I can get to the next level in college sports.”

Beau and George also reflected on Devin’s character. George commented, “Devin has helped me a lot with baseball. Last winter, and whenever he’s been in town, he has played catch with Beau and I, lifted with us, or he just comes out to the field to help out.” Beau added, “Devin is super helpful and selfless. He doesn’t have to come out for us, but he always does. That’s the kind of guy he is.”

UHS English teacher, volleyball coach, and Devin’s wife, Katie Kirby-Williams, shared that “Watching Devin overcome the obstacles in his path, while difficult, has been so fulfilling. I have loved watching his story unfold. I know how hard he works, and it brings me so much joy that he is being recognized and given another opportunity to do what he truly loves.” With his move from Maryland, she highlighted, “I also am super stoked that he is in the same time zone as me again!”

Kirby-Williams echoed her husband’s message of how dreams may be difficult, but they are never impossible. And as a high school coach, she said it is inspiring and rewarding to see a UHS athlete make it big.

A baseball pitcher on the mound wearing a light blue jersey with a camouflage pattern and pink glove, preparing to pitch during a night game. A batter in gray is poised in the background.
Devin Kirby in action for the Aberdeen IronBirds. Photo Credit: Jacqueline Kozloski

“I have always said that if Devin truly puts his mind to something, he can accomplish it. Going back after being told ‘no’ so many times this last year was hard, yet I knew that he could do it. Going from minor league and into independent ball was a step that he hadn’t taken before, so we were unsure of how things would play out,” Kirby-Williams said.  

She continued, “It’s been very inspiring to watch him fall back in love with the sport. Every step has ultimately paid off. He is finally back on the West Coast, which hasn’t been the case since he started this adventure back in 2023. The door is open again, and I know he will take advantage of this opportunity to the best of his ability, as he has every time before.” 

She closed with a word of gratitude: “Always a big thank you to everyone who shows Devin support throughout this time!” 

As Kirby embarks on this next chapter, he shared the impact he wishes to have as a role model for upcoming athletes: “I want them to understand that to get to your dreams is not gonna be easy. It’s gonna be a long road of hard work and dedication. I want to be an outlet for these athletes and let them know that I’m here.” 

You can follow Kirby’s journey on Instagram at devin_kirby_w.

(Feature Photo: Devin Kirby in action for the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs. Photo Credit: Eric Wilcox)

Administration of Justice (ADJ): A CTE Pathway at UHS

Zach Stewart
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Administration of Justice (ADJ): A CTE Pathway at UHS

Here at UHS, one of the CTE pathways available is Administration of Justice, which has recently returned to our campus. This is a class where Wildcats can learn the world of criminology and prepare for a career in law enforcement, the legal field, or put students on track for law school. 

UHS News interviewed Fred Keplinger, teacher of Administration of Justice, and he shared that through this pathway, students learn about criminology. He explained that the program contains four dual enrollment courses that earn 12 college credits and 40 high school credits. Each semester is 3 college credits and 10 high school elective credits. He shared that this pathway is designed for students interested in law enforcement or the law, and that it’s important to remember that, since this is a college class, students will need to be “dedicated, engaged, and work hard to keep up with the coursework.” 

UHS News also interviewed Elijah Cohen, a Junior at UHS currently enrolled in the program. Cohen shared that he likes how ADJ gives him an inside look at police work. He added that he believes it is helpful for students to know their rights and how police officers conduct business. Cohen intends to pursue this field in college, and he stated, “I like that it gives you a look at how police work is done…It is really informative and helpful to know your rights and know the inner workings of the police, so you know what is actually happening when a crime is committed and what you need to report a crime.” He stated that in the first semester, students learned the eras of modern policing, and in the last semester, they started learning about how evidence is collected.

If you are someone who loves learning about the law, and want to know more about your rights, or can see yourself pursuing law enforcement as a career, you should consider taking Administration of Justice (ADJ). In addition to helpful information, this program will provide you with credits for high school and help you get a head start in college. 

Before the Buddhas: The Story of Mendocino State Hospital

Salvio Senerchia
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Before the Buddhas: The Story of Mendocino State Hospital

Just outside Ukiah lies the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas, now a serene, peaceful campus with a meditation center, elegant peacocks strutting about, beautiful walking paths, a restaurant, and a small feeder school for Ukiah High. 

Students at those schools–the Instilling Goodness and Developing Virtues schools–spent years in classrooms, on beautiful acreage in Talmage, often blissfully oblivious to its past. Go back just over 50 years, on that same land, in the same buildings, and the scene was quite the opposite. 

In July 1889, the Mendocino State Asylum for the Insane was founded. What followed was nearly ninety years filled with wild stories, lawsuits, and the grim realities of mental institutions at the time; there was little awareness of how best to treat the mentally unwell, and those suffering were often mistreated and removed from the public eye. 

By 1897, the hospital was renamed for the second time, from the Mendocino Asylum to the Mendocino State Hospital (MSH), a name it retained until its closure in 1972 by then-California Governor Ronald Reagan (OAC). 

According to an essay published on Mendocino Community College’s website, in the early 1900s, through a state bill, MSH began admitting “insane criminals” and state convicts. This change led to daring escapes, brutal deaths, and some of the state’s most infamous criminals and killers being held right here in Talmage (MCC). 

The hospital’s first patients were all male and were transferred from mental institutions in Napa and Stockton. In 1894, the first female patients began arriving. The population remained relatively small until the late 1920s, when the stock market crash triggered rapid growth that peaked in 1955 (OAC). 

Lifelong Redwood Valley resident Jonathan Frey spent his younger years hanging out at MSH while his parents worked. Frey described the hospital’s grounds as park-like, with a garden and a dairy; a self-sustaining institution tucked away in Talmage, maintained by staff and clients.

Frey stressed that at the time, the hospital was “a huge part of the local economy,” and that when it closed in 1972, it was devastating not just for the many employees but also for researchers and the local community. Frey painted a picture of the institute and its patients: “They could work in the fields, grow their own food, but not take care of themselves.” 

A wide shot of a traditional archway with a colorful roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a large oak tree, under a partly cloudy sky.
Current entrance to The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas. Photo Credit: Josette Mealey

Frey’s parents came to work for the hospital in the late 50’s. His mother, Marguerite “Beba” Frey, began work at MSH a few years after his father. She worked primarily in an administrative role, completing patient write-ups. His father, Paul Frey, was interested in traditional Native American medicine and saw working at the hospital as a way to expand his knowledge. He began studying the use of psychedelics at MSH, where he remained until its closure. 

Frey’s father was not alone in his curiosity; at the time, many others in the same field were working, visiting, or staying at MSH. People like Timothy Leary, famed psychedelics promoter, Fredrick and Laura Perls, the founders of Gestalt therapy, Ralph Metzner, Alan Watts, Wilson van Duesen, and many more, all spent time there. The Psychedelic Review, a periodical on the use of psychedelics in therapy, was worked on at MSH. 

Beyond the study of drugs and whispers of harsh testing done by government agencies, at its peak in 1955, the institution employed roughly 700 and housed over 3,000 patients (OAC).

In later years, MSH was used as a rehab center for drug abuse and alcoholism, a psychiatric residency program, and even a site for early group therapy. 

Some methods were controversial, such as those used for rehab groups at MSH, which were adapted from Synanon, a rehab program turned cult based in Southern California (JOYLAND). 

Conditions at MSH were far from humane at many points, with charges against both technicians and patients. In addition to the illegal methods of enforcement and abuse at MSH, it was also a site for sterilizations (MCC). 

Though legal in California, the way sterilizations came to be was often gruesome, and it was not uncommon for the procedure to be forced upon patients. People could be sterilized for as little as being impoverished, being of non-European descent, or being a convict. 

By the 1970s, the air around mental institutions had begun to change in California, and pressure from patients’ rights activists, along with judicial changes, forced the closure of many State Hospitals, including the Mendocino State Hospital. 

Following the closure of MSH, some patients were simply released into the community, and the campus was ultimately sold for very little–two decisions which were unpopular with locals. 

The door was finally closed on an institution shrouded in mystery, overshadowed by its many horror stories. 

Throughout its time in operation, approximately 1,600 patients died, and many more were left with trauma from their time spent there (Press Democrat). During MSH’s operation, people with mental health issues were thrown in cells, treated as animals, and shunned by society. 

A large green lawn in front of a two-story building with a yellow facade and dark green windows, surrounded by trees and bushes under a clear blue sky.
Instilling Goodness and Developing Virtues Secondary School for Girls. Photo Credit: Josette Mealey

Now, just over 50 years later, there is less stigma surrounding mental health, and therapy is becoming more socially accepted. For example, May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. Yet despite having a better understanding of psychiatric conditions, the associated difficulties continue to present challenges in our community.  

Right now, in Ukiah, a new Psychiatric Health Facility is nearing completion. A much-needed service is finally returning to Ukiah. It is a second attempt, a new and improved version of what once was hidden from public view: the Mendocino State Hospital in Talmage. 

Cover image: Building from the Mendocino State Hospital, circa 1930, Wikipedia. Public Domain. 

AP Testing is Next Week: Tips on How to Prepare

Karis Jacobsen
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AP Testing is Next Week: Tips on How to Prepare

As Spring unfolds, so does the feeling of anxiety, urgency, and determination to face AP exams. Students need to focus on studying and staying in a consistent routine. 

In preparation for the exam, students study in different ways. Some focus better in a quiet setting with no distractions, while others can’t study without music or some kind of noise in the background. As a current Junior in AP classes, what helps me prepare and stay focused is having a show playing in the background or music, a coffee to sip on, or studying with friends. I personally find it hard to focus in a quiet environment. Students must figure out what works best for them so that they can feel fully prepared and secure for next week’s tests. 

The article “Six Research-Tested Ways to Study Better,” by Heather Stringer from the American Psychological Association, offers scientifically tested benefits for maximizing your study efforts. The following list reflects 6 helpful strategies that all students should follow:

1. Remember and Repeat: It’s important to repeat in your head what you study. This helps you recall the information better later on.

2. Quiz yourself: Quizzing yourself is also a great strategy because it helps you practice for the real test and get a sense of what it’ll be like. 

3. Make the most of study groups: Studying with other people helps you see other perspectives on the subject and provides accountability. 

4. Mix it up: This refers to adding other subjects into your studying so that you make additional connections across different content areas. This is called interleaving. 

5. Figure out what works for you: This can be as simple as finding the environment that works best for you, and overall, finding the most comfortable and stress-free way to study. 

Studies also show that spacing out learning, so students are forced to retrieve information over time, increases retention. This is called the spacing effect. 

Scientists say that studying effectively is the main cause of guaranteed success on your exams. Paul Penn, PhD, a senior lecturer in the psychology department at East London University, highlights how learning is all about perspective. “If your impression of your learning is inflated, you have little incentive to look at the way you’re approaching learning.”

Wildcats weigh in on what they are currently doing to prepare and their strategies to prevent overwhelm. Junior Lily Wheeler shares, “I am currently preparing for my AP Lang exam by staying on top of my work and noting down the things I struggle with in my practice essays so I can continue to study those specific things.” 

Junior Lars Brunner shares, “I’m feeling pretty stressed about my tests. I take a lot of APs and have a lot to review, but my main source of stress relief has been the gym. Making time for the gym and studying has helped me not get too overwhelmed.” 

It’s easy to fall back into bad habits when you’re feeling the pressure, but it’s important not to lose sight of why you are taking these classes and how much they can benefit you in the long run. Aside from math equations, chemical formulas, and how to write an essay, studying effectively is its own skill that students should be aware of so they get the most out of their practice

AP testing at Ukiah High starts Monday, May 4th, and goes through the 15th. Students can look on Minga for additional testing information. 

Good luck with your continued preparation!

Stringer, Heather. “Six Research-Tested Ways to Study Better.” Apa.org, American Psychological Association, 19 Feb. 2020. 

A Classic Tale Reimagined: The Drama Department’s 2026 Spring Play

Audriena Ramos and Gabby Ramos
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A Classic Tale Reimagined: The Drama Department’s 2026 Spring Play

The UHS Drama Department is bringing a fresh take on a familiar story with Marian: The True Story of Robin Hood. This rendition keeps the heart of the classic tale–courage, action, and rebellion–while adding a unique twist: Robin Hood is a woman in disguise. 

Set in the forests of medieval England, the play is narrated by Alanna Dale (performed by Irie Wager), who follows Robin Hood (Harper Olson) and his Merry Men as they bring justice to the village, with the iconic line, “Steal from the rich, give to the poor.” Robin and his companion, Little John, outwit the Sheriff of Nottingham and the royal army as they become symbols of hope for the village. However, this version raises the stakes with Robin’s secret identity as he not only faces the dangers of being an outlaw but also of hiding who he truly is. The comedy unfolds as characters explore themes such as resilience, identity, and justice. 

Audiences can expect a good time as this hilarious story develops. While at times the play can touch on serious topics, it’s perfectly balanced with comedic entertainment. 

Junior Kira Douthit explains that many actors, including herself, are drawn to the humorous aspects of the play. “My favorite part of performing is how over the top I can be. I’ve always liked doing voices and huge caricatures, especially in comedy.” Junior, Athena Marino-Defrates agreed: “I enjoy the lightheartedness and the silliness. I like that we get to be goofy.” 

A theatrical performance scene featuring a female actor in costume wielding a sword while balancing on a chair, with a male actor standing beside her, both interacting in front of a decorative backdrop.
Harper Olson as Robin Hood and Kira Douthit as Prince John / Photo Credit: Gabby Ramos

The play has more to offer than humor; it also touches on larger issues, as Sophomore Harper Olson described: “[The play] calls attention to a lot of societal and political things happening, and I think that it does that all through humor. The entire play itself puts such an emphasis on the idea of love and of self-expression.”

Performing such a thought-provoking show while still leaving audiences laughing requires great skill from Ukiah’s talented actors, one in particular being Junior Aiden Kier. He explained how this experience made him a better actor and taught him many things: “Even if you’re nervous or anxious, if you dive in head first, after a little bit it will get easier.” 

These students have put in months of hard work and dedication, and it shows. Kier explained how he and his partner, Chris, faced difficulties learning choreography for a fight scene, but after lots of practice, “We made it so perfect that every single time we do it for a crowd, you hear audible gasps.”

Two actors performing on stage in a theatrical production set in a forest environment, with trees painted in the backdrop. The actor on the left wears a brown shirt and black trousers, while the actor on the right is dressed in a green top and brown pants, with a hat, both displaying confident poses.
Aiden Kier as Little John and Harper Olson as Robin Hood / Photo Credit: Gabby Ramos

Similar to Aiden’s experience, Junior Josette Mealy expressed feeling satisfied when the audience is engaged and interested in their work. “People finally get to see what you’ve put so much time and effort into.”

All students who contributed to this play deserve to be recognized and their work appreciated. Offstage members of the production are vital to the creation of props. Students also displayed their talent by coming together to design the set, which serves as a prison, King’s castle, and the forest of Nottingham.

In any production, teamwork is key. Everyone is a part of something bigger, and they all contribute to the success of the show. Senior Oliver Walsh appreciates how “The whole cast gets along, and everyone works together.” Walsh adds that, “Being friendly with the people you’re in the play with really improves the experience.”

Two actors performing on stage in a wooded setting, one wearing a costume with horns and the other in a historical outfit, sitting on the floor with a warm spotlight highlighting them.
Aiden Kier as Little John and Harper Olson as Robin Hood / Photo Credit: Gabby Ramos

Through long rehearsals and performances, cast members have grown into a tightly woven group that supports one another on and offstage. Senior Marcos Lopez was quick to compliment the talent of another castmate: “I really love Aiden’s performance, the way he played Little John.” 

School events like this build a sense of community and bring students, families, and staff together to admire student talent. This play is a fantastic display of student talent that leaves audiences smiling while still encouraging thoughtful reflection. As Harper Olson puts it, “You’re going to not only laugh, but you’re going to learn more about people.”

With a unique twist on a classic story, this year’s play is the perfect opportunity to experience something new while supporting talent within our school community. All are welcome to come and watch free of charge. The Drama department promises to entertain audiences with this memorable comedy, Marian: The True Story of Robin Hood.

Join us for the final showings tonight, Friday, or Saturday. All shows start at 7 PM. See you there!

Cast List:

Marian: Harper Olson

Little John: Aiden Kier

Alanna Dale: Irie Wager

Will Scarlet: Sierra Travers

Much the Miller’s Son: Oliver Walsh

Tommy of No Consequence: Lily Keplinger

Friar Tuck: Athena Marino-Defrates

Lady Shirley: Josette Mealey 

Prince John: Kira Douthit 

Sheriff of Nottingham: Marcos Lopez 

Sir Lenny the Observant: Callie Padilla

Sir Theo the Punctual: Zeke Williams 

Guard 1: Marcus Elliott

Guard 2: Chris Thompson 

Guard 3: Tennyson Wagar

Guard 4: Yasmin Rivera 

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