There is an age-old tradition playing out at Sonoma Valley High School. Well, that may be stretching it just a bit, however, as the school year closes in on summer, seniors are in the process of completing their senior projects. The projects have several components. Students must complete a project that takes them outside of their comfort zone, a project that contains a stiff learning curve. They must write a research paper, create a poster and make a presentation associated with their projects’ general theme. This week I highlight three spectacular projects.
Cecilia Montano is best known for her wicked backhand. I know her as a SVHS tennis sensation, but was unaware of her interest in history and photography. Cecilia has created a masterpiece using a lens and a creative eye. Her idea was to create a 2015 calendar using photographs of many of our treasured historic resources around Sonoma. The calendars are on sale at the Depot Museum and the gift shop at the Barracks. For $20 one can enjoy a piece of Sonoma history month after month. The proceeds go to the SVHS Earth Club, which “aims to raise environmental awareness at SVHS and the community by participating in environmentally focused projects that help promote a green lifestyle.”
CJ Vitale and Kyle Garcia are best known for their athletic abilities and are proud members of the SVHS varsity baseball team. These two are carrying on a Sonoma Valley tradition by producing the annual Home Run Derby. I recently tracked down Vitale and Garcia one early morning in the SVHS parking lot just before the first period bell. They are excited about this year’s event and hope to raise money for the Dragon’s baseball program. This year’s event will be held at Arnold Field on March 14. Exact times are still being worked out, but generally children 6-12 take their swings from 11-3; ages 13-17 from 3 to 5 p.m.; and 18 and over from 5 to 9p.m. Participants pay $10 for ten swings and winners will receive incredible prizes and take away unforgettable memories. For more information email CJ Vitale at Cjvitale6@gmail.com.
James McKale plays in the number one spot on the SVHS varsity tennis team. I know this young man well! James is raising money to help construct an educational center in the Nubian community of Gharb Aswan. The educational center will focus on teaching women a variety of life skills including the manufacturing of local crafts, home economics, first aid and women’s health. Join James this Sunday, March 8 from 12:30-2p.m. at the Sebastiani Theater, for a viewing of the film “In Tahrir Square: 18 Days of Egypt’s Unfinished Revolution.” This fundraiser will include a raffle giving away exotic Egyptian treasures, sweets and Karkade (hibiscus tea). The cost of the event is $10 and is sure to be a great experience for all attendees. For more information, contact James at jamesmckale1@gmail.com.
Sonoma should be proud of these seniors. I have heard that creating, planning and carrying out senior project’s can be a dreaded experience. Seniors, we are delighted by your creativity and determination. I encourage all to support our young Sonoma youth in their humanitarian efforts. Cecilia’s calendar is hanging in my office. I will support CJ and Kyle by embarrassing myself trying to simply hit a baseball and I will head over to the Sebastiani Theater on March 8 in support of James. While this column only focused on three incredibly talented SVHS seniors, there are other seniors who are using their projects to raise money for a cause. This is the Sonoma way. Please get out and support these students
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