Michael Combs

Dec 14, 2024 | theoakleafnews.com | Michael Combs

The term “ghosting” arose from the idea that when one person ghosts another, they effectively become invisible, or a “ghost,” to them. Another eerie similarity shared with the name, however, is that a spirit comes into existence from unresolved emotions, usually in the form of trauma the act causes them. Nomenclature aside, ghosting is abusive behavior that shouldn’t be tolerated if an ethical society is to advance.

Jul 31, 2024 | theoakleafnews.com | Nick Vides |Michael Combs |Yna Bollock

Funny CarThe top two drivers in the NHRA Funny Car standings met in the semifinals Sunday at Sonoma Raceway. Heading into the week Austin Prock led with 1044 points, 256 points ahead of Bob Tasca III, who’s first round 338.77 was the top speed of the weekend in the division. Tasca III beat Prock off the line by .022, and after losing the lead heading into the midsection was able to outpace Prock’s Camaro and sneak across the line with a .03 second lead, securing his place in the final.

Jul 29, 2024 | theoakleafnews.com | Nick Vides |Michael Combs |Yna Bollock

Funny CarThe top two drivers in the NHRA Funny Car standings met in the semifinals Sunday at Sonoma Raceway. Heading into the week Austin Prock led with 1044 points, 256 points ahead of Bob Tasca III, who’s first round 338.77 was the top speed of the weekend in the division. Tasca III beat Prock off the line by .022, and after losing the lead heading into the midsection was able to outpace Prock’s Camaro and sneak across the line with a .03 second lead, securing his place in the final.

Jul 26, 2024 | theoakleafnews.com | Nick Vides |Michael Combs |Yna Bollock

The sound of tens-of-thousands of horsepower reverberates yet again through the golden hills of Sonoma Valley as some of the most powerful vehicles in existence race in the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals at Sonoma Raceway July 26 to 28. Check back for nightly wrap ups and more photos. About the Contributors Michael Combs (he/him) is in his fifth semester writing for The Oak Leaf, and his second as co-Editor-In-Chief.

May 12, 2024 | theoakleafnews.com | Hana Seals |Michael Combs

Seven years ago, Santa Rosa Junior College student Kenny Hotchkiss had only one wish: to die. He was 11 years into living unhoused with constant stints in and out of jail and nearly a lifetime of battling drug addiction, and he was ready to give up. On Christmas evening 2017, his wish came true. “A 6-foot, 300-pound kid [who] I knew ever since he was young proceeded to kick my stomach in with steel-toe boots,” Hotchkiss said.