Spring 2023, Issue 8

Arkansas passes a new bill allowing children to join the workforce at an earlier age. PAGE 3

The Theatre Arts and Dance department hosts a preview of their upcoming play. PAGE 5

Read about the day in the life of an SSU baseball pitcher.

SSU remembers Bruce Johnson with his art

SACHA WEDNER STAFF WRITER

OnMarch 23, renowned Timber Cove sculptor Bruce Johnson passed away at the age of 77. For over 50 years, Johnson worked and lived on a forested ridge in Timber Cove along the Sonoma County Coast overlooking the Pacif ic, and created multiple intricate and inspiring art pieces from wood and steel, including the two sculptures, Asia and Understanding Matter located outside the Green Music Center.

According to reports, Johnson’s death was the result of an accident in his home studio, and as of now, details of the report have not been released to the public by authorities. Friends and those speaking on behalf of his family have told the Press Democrat that a piece of one of his sculptures fell upon him when he was moving or working on it, suffering a head injury as a result.

The first of Johson’s sculptures on Sonoma State, Asia, which was in stalled in 2012, can be visited and viewed outside of the Green Music Center. The newest on-campus piece of his, titled Understanding Matter, can also be found outside the Green Music Center as well. Installed in February, this was created in dedication of Donald and Maureen Green, the founders of North Bay’s Telecom Valley, and helped provide the foundational grant for the Green Music Center itself.

“We are thrilled that they are part of Sonoma State’s art collection. They will be here on campus for all to enjoy.” says Green Music Center Executive Director Jacob Yarrow in regards to Asia and Understanding Matter. “They’ll forever remind me of Bruce’s creativity, care for the environment, and the love he put into the world.”

see BRUCE JOHNSON on pg. 4

Santa Rosa shooting feels too close to home

COVID-19 is not the only reason people are hesitant to attend large gatherings, according to the American Psychological Association, a third of adults say that the fear of mass shootings prevent them from going to certain events.

A recent shooting left one dead and one injured after a fight at a party in rural Santa Rosa in the early hours of March 25. The deceased victim has been identified as Raul Ramirez Reyes, 20.

David Jeremiah Morales, 20 was arrested in Vallejo shortly after the shooting and taken to the Sonoma county jail. He was charged with murder and attempted murder on March 29 in Santa Rosa.

The party took place at a warehouse owned by George Kokalis. Kokalis explains that his grandson hosted the party without his permission. A friend of Kokalis’s grandson stated that the party was posted on social media and that people the host did not know got into a fight and led to a shooting.

Two students at Sonoma State find the recent shooting frightening. “It’s eye opening, things can happen anywhere,” says Michelle Balderas, fourth year Kinesiology student. “A shooting can happen anywhere now, it doesn’t matter if it’s somewhere you think you’re safe like at a party or school.” Said Melissa Madrigal Lorenzo, third year psychology.

Vanessa Gonzalez, a fourth year student majoring in psychology is not surprised by the recent shooting. Growing up in Los Angeles county, Gonzalez is used to shootings occurring.

“It does worry me a small amount but growing up in a larger city it has become a norm to expect shootings…….It’s so normalized to the point where it is not shocking, which is sad.”

While the nation is still grappling with the recent

Sonoma State rowing club beats two world records

Sonoma State’s rowing club blew not just one, but two indoor rowing world records out of the water this past spring break. The world records included the 19 & under small group and over 20 years olds small group. In order to complete the feat, the U19 group had to row continuously for over three days and the over 20 group had to row for over seven days and 10 hours. Both teams rowed for seven days and 12 hours with the U19 group more than doubling the record and the over 20 group beating the record by two hours.

The Ergathon took place from March 19-26. A co-ed team with six rowers worked together taking shifts of one to three hours at a time to beat the U19 benchmark. To beat the over 20 group record, more club members joined to form a larger team. It was crucial that everyone was coordinated and timely with their shifts because of the clockwork-like manner the team had planned out to beat the records. That meant some team members were waking up very early or staying up very late to make sure the rowing did not stop.

see SEVEN DAY ROW on pg. 4

Bruce Johnson, local sculpturist created many pieces across Sonoma county.

MARIAH FORSTER STAFF WRITER

RENÉ CASSANO & JUSTIN SIMPSON STAFF WRITERS

COURTESY // @ssu_rowing on instagram Sonoma State mens and womens rowing clubs teamed up, reaching fundraising goal and setting records.

THE STAR

Editorial Board

Rosalee Padilla, Editor-in-Chief

Nicholas Roth, Copy Editor

Ana Fingerson, News Editor

Mikayla Fritzemeier, Opinion Editor

Adriana Gonzalez, Arts & Entertainment Editor

Cec Fernandez, Photo Editor

Zachary Gonzales, Student Life Editor

Javier Hernandez,

Sports Editor

Corinne Asturias, Faculty Adviser

Staff Writers

Célia Aline Amaral, Rene Cassano, Mariah Forster, Tito Fuentes, Mia Garcia, Elias Kaplan, Olivia Keeler, Kathleen Mootz, Alec Padilla, Cooper Perry, Kylie Perry, Bernardo Ramos, Jake Renteria, Justin Simpson, Ally Valiente, Sacha Wedner

Photographers

Dennae Taylor and Malia Teran

Nichols Hall 323, 1801 East Cotati Ave Rohnert Park, CA 94928

Telephone: 707-664-2776

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Corrections and News Tips: star@sonoma.edu

Publication

The STAR is published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters. The weekly publication of the STAR is made possible by Instructionally Related Activities Funding.

Opinions

Opinions expressed in the STAR are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the STAR or SSU. The editorial reflects the views of the STAR Editorial Board on issues it considers to be of particular relevance to the campus community.

Editorial Policy

The commentary expressed in the unsigned editorial represents a majority opinion of the STAR Editorial Board on a topic facing the campus community in keeping with journalistic precedents of other major newspapers, and may not be shared by all staff writers.

A lack of representation on the SSU campus

Whenentering Sonoma State either as a student or faculty member, one of the first promises the school assures is a place of acceptance no matter who you are as an individual. Although that assurance allows incoming students to feel safe and excited for their new journey, many feel that promise is brushed off as their time at SSU continues.

There is a lack of representation in regards to diversity on the SSU campus. There are very few clubs and organizations led by minority groups such as people of color, women, those in the LGBTQ+ community, etc. Many students on campus are fighting for more prominent representation, but another step towards this is holding the school accountable for their promise of inclusivity as well as giving students resources to do the same.

With SSU being predominantly female and the vast majority being white, we tend to celebrate achievements from these two groups the most. The support of these groups can sometimes feel performative. It is time the school emphasizes the existence of other minority groups.

Taneesha Porter, a student representative for AS said she feels like an outcast when it comes to SSU making her feel represented on campus. She feels the school could “promote diversity in every aspect, and actually do thinking to prevent discrimination and harassment. As well as own up to their mistakes instead of sweeping it under the rug.”

In a newsletter put out on Jan. 23, 2023, Vice President of student affairs, Gerald Jones and Provost, Karen Moranski said, “Our staff in the Division of Student Affairs have been fervently planting those seeds, planning and developing robust programs and services that will help cultivate your sense of belonging and success at Sonoma State and beyond.” They continue to advertise a sense of belonging and reassurance in newsletters just like the one above when acts of discrimination happen locally or globally, but when will they im-

plement these programs and “seeds” they speak of.

It has been noticed that the only organization led by all women and people of color are the AS student representatives. Consisting of three representatives, a records assistant, and a university affairs and special projects director, these five women play a very important role in associated students. Unfortunately, they have shared thoughts that their recognition has been overlooked.

Madelyn Elena Williams, university affairs and special projects director and Khanh Dao, AS representative suggest students be open minded as well as show up to senate meetings and AS events. This will allow for more networking and recognition.

Events across campus fall short when advertising to students. Especially the ones that would benefit and create change if students were to participate. This is not just a fault of the school or associated students but the students themselves. In the most recent AS elections there were a total of 990 student votes. As of Fall 2021, there were around seven thousand students enrolled at SSU. This turnout is one example showing the lack of engagement from students.

“SSU has made me feel welcomed by encouraging me to participate on campus. Whether it’s speaking my mind, showing up to events, or being part of an activity. I have also involved myself with organizations,” said Dao.

SSU has been a place of support for many, but there is still a need for better engagement with students. Programs, opportunities, and devices that encourage those who may feel like they don’t belong to speak up and join more groups need to become a standard. This will allow for others, with similar thoughts, to feel comfortable doing the same. In order to see some sort of change, students need to feel encouraged to go out of their comfort zone and see what is happening around them.

Letters to the Editor:

Tennessee lawmakers need to sashay away

ment style wearing stylized clothing. It is most commonly known as men wearing women’s clothing cross-dressing, generally for the purpose of a performance.

troduced in Texas, West Virginia, Nebraska, and South Carolina.

crisis plaguing the country.

As Dolly Parton once said, “It’s a good thing I was born a girl, otherwise I’d be a drag queen.”

Many of the ways people express their creativity and passions can be found through painting, writing, music, and film. For others, they find their creative solace in makeup and theater. There are millions of other hobbies and activities that are consumed and enjoyed by people, and yet, there are no bans for writers, painters, and filmmakers. So, why has the state of Tennessee banned drag shows?

In its essence, drag is a type of art form that refers to an entertain-

According to the New York Times, Republican Gov. Bill Lee signed a bill into law on March 2, restricting public drag performances, and not too long after a similar bill was passed earlier this year preventing transgender minors from receiving gender-affirming health care such as hormone prescriptions or surgery.

Tennessee is the first state to restrict public drag performances in 2023.

Parts of the Anti-Drag bill have described drag as a way to safeguard children, asserting that drag events can have sexualized language and suggestive performances that may be too extreme and mature for minors. Performances are also not allowed occurring within 1,000 feet of schools, public parks, or places of worship.

Similar bills have now been in-

The bill was met with backlash and vehement opposition from across the nation, with many activists and celebrities accusing conservatives of recklessly banning drag instead of addressing real and pressing issues, like gun control.

This is not the first time that a law has prevented gender expression in public and private; these types of laws have been around in the U.S. for more than 100 years, with only one in New York just being appealed in 2021, according to NPR.

“Drag shows aren’t killing children. If they are so riled up about protecting the youth, how about they turn their attention towards the thing that’s actually killing them: guns!” said sophomore Wren L.

Banning drag shows and reducing the number of safe spaces for those in the LGBTQ community is a step in the wrong direction, and poses a distraction from the real issues such as gun control and the housing, homeless, and healthcare

Drag has been around in our nation’s history for more than a century, with the first drag ball taking place in Harlem, New York in the 1920s. Many drag performances have also been featured in iconic Broadway shows with characters such as Edna Turnblad from Hairspray, Lola from Kinky Boots, Hedwig from Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and many others. It has also been a staple in pop culture, with hit tv shows such as Ru Paul’s Drag Race, a show many Gen Z’ers have bonded over. Ru Paul’s Drag Race is also hosted by one of the most recognized drag-queens, RuPaul Charles.

“They’re worried that children exposed to drag shows will somehow ‘turn’ them into a queer person. Well guess what? I knew I was gay even before I was exposed to any drag shows or LGBT content,” said freshman Maelyn B. “It’s not something you can ‘turn’ into. You feel it deep within your soul.”

Restrict Act could jeopardize TikTok and much more

“threatening.”

In a poll conducted on the STAR’s Instagram account, students were asked if they supported the RESTRICT act or not. 72 votes, about 84% of the responses, were in disagreement with the bill, while 16%, were in agreement.

puter webcams, ring and home cameras, etc.

ELIAS KAPLAN STAFF WRITER

Does the government need to be focusing on how to ban TikTok when many of those concerned with it are farther removed from technology than some Sonoma State students’ parents?

Bill S.686 is known as the Restrict Act or the “TikTok Ban Bill.” This bill seems to be centered around TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, the Chinese technology firm that owns the app. However, it is about more than just TikTok, this is about the government wanting unlimited access to people’s devices and appliances whenever they want, based on what actions are deemed

The bill to ban TikTok is not only nonsense, but it is also terrifying. The bill covers hardware tech like modems, routers, home cameras and virtual technology like VPNs and bans them if they’re manufactured by whatever the nation considers being a “foreign adversary.” This bill also makes it a criminal act to use things like VPNs to access banned apps, like TikTok, to which one can be given 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of at least $250,000. On top of this, it allows the federal government to monitor activity on any of the devices listed, virtual or not. In other words, the government is allowed to monitor what you do in your home 24/7 without letting you know. This includes almost any internet device like video games, com-

In a recent hearing, TikTok CEO, Shou Zi Chew, and his team were questioned by U.S. lawmakers. Most of the people in congressional positions are so out of touch with the current state of technology, that it doesn’t even make sense for them to be the ones asking questions regarding technological security.

For example, Congressman Richard Hudson of North Carolina asked the question, “Does TikTok access the home WiFi network… therefore letting it connect to other devices?” It’s unclear as to what is being asked in this question other than if TikTok uses the WiFi if accessible, which of course it would have to in order for the app to work.

When asked about the bill, Sonoma State student Devin Schulte said, “The older politicians who are trying to control and centralize the media by censoring it is outrageous… There’s so much going on in the world right now, and most of the political output is centered on trying to gain control

of the youth and the youth’s opinion, but the thing is, they don’t understand the youth.”

Project Texas is TikTok’s plan to not get banned. Specifically, it would change TikTok in a way that allows the company to store U.S. user data under an American company, Oracle, which is based out of Austin, TX. Project Texas would act as a firewall, making sure that the Chinese government wouldn’t be able to access U.S. user data. The concern with another data breach event similar to what happened with Cambridge Analytica in March of 2018 is understandable. Data leaks can be catastrophic, however, if Project Texas is successful, there is no chance TikTok could make U.S. user data available to the Chinese Communist Party. It’s unlikely that the CCP is going to do anything with any user data, but it’s not impossible. The government is concerned with this makes sense, however, the way congress goes about discussing current technology is inaccurate and is nonsensical.

Too young? New Arkansas bill allows 14-year-olds to work

Arkansas, as Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed the Youth Hiring Act of 2023 into law on March 6. This law would allow children as young as 14 to work in Arkansas without having to get an employment certificate.

like to juggle school work with actual work on top of a social life but could a 14 year old be expected to do the same?

er options, it’s an easy answer.

Prior to child labor laws being passed many American children, some as young as 7 years old were subject to unsanitary and unsafe work conditions, long hours, very little pay and no education. Today, children are protected from such work environments and are required to be at least 16 years old to work in most cases, with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). However things might be changing in

There have been mixed feelings about this new law which some say is effectively rolling back child labor laws. While others think it’s a positive step forward arguing that the overall decision should be left to parents and not the government. The ones in support of the law also highlight that these children would still be restricted to a certain amount of hours and also not allowed to work certain jobs. While these statements are reassuring to hear it still wouldnt be in the best interest of the children to be working at such a young age. Most college students know what it’s

When asked about whether or not a 14 year old would be able to handle the responsibility of having a job, Karina Lopez a third year english major said, “I don’t think that most 14 year olds really have an idea of what hard work really is so I don’t know if they really would be able to…” It’s true that most kids that age probably wouldn’t have the maturity to take on a job but what if they had to in order to help out their struggling parents.

First-year Jonathan Bernal gave his thoughts, “If a child’s parents are struggling to make ends meet then they should be allowed to work as long as their parents approve.” Obviously not every parent wants their child to work but if they have no oth-

However, it would only be a temporary solution as Christopher Calvillo said, “It could be a slippery slope. What if they focus too much on work and not enough on school work.” A fair point, it would be difficult to get a child to focus on their homework if they just came home from a hard shift at work.

Even though the Youth Hiring Act of 2023 doesn’t force children to work in unsafe conditions for low wages and long hours it still feels to some degree like it might be turning back the clock on child labor laws that have already been passed. Children should be able to focus on being children without the stress of having a job while they still can. Trying to keep a job and study at such a young age would only bring unwelcomed stress to a developing child’s life.

BERNARDO RAMOS STAFF WRITER

Seven-day row reaches fundraising goal

continued from pg. 1

The team included President Emily Braun, Vice President Nick Cross, Recruitment Committee members Calvin Colton and Clayton Trent, as well as their secretary Jillian Junquiero. Oliver Sharp-Biggs manages the boat yard and the rest of the team consists of Marie Dunlap, Ethan Edwards, Juan Garcia-Vega, Audrey Lucas, Miranda Obrero, Facundo Ortega, Taylor Rozek, Emma Twardosz, and Taylor Westover.

Braun said, “We have been planning on doing the Ergathon since late January. Our coaches really convinced us to go for the world record.”

The team was able to successfully raise over $6,000 in total, nearly $1,000 a day. Braun also added, “Some alumni reached out to say how proud of the club they were, how we’ve brought back life to Sonoma State Rowing, and how they miss rowing because it looks like we’re having so much fun.”

The entire seven-and-a-half-day venture was streamed live on Twitch, where people could voice their support, interact with the team and donate to the club’s fundraising efforts. In said stream, the team surpassed its fundraising goal of over $5,000.

Cross commented on how he feels being a part of a world record saying, “Being able to hold [the world record] with my team is such a great feeling. What drove us to break the record was we saw a fundraising and recruitment opportunity in doing an Ergathon.” He went on to say, “Being able to have a world record and use that in tabling and recruitment is invaluable. As well as that with the success of this event we are able to race in Humboldt and Oregon. I’m really proud of my teammates, this was not an easy feat and we were able to beat the record and hopefully hold it for years to come.”

Even with two world records in their clutches the SSU rowing club is showing no signs of slowing down. With more attention on the club than ever, they hope to boost their opportunities for recruitment and raise even more money to bolster their arsenal of equipment.

Students re-evaluate safety

continued from pg. 1

shooting that occurred in Nashville Tennessee, and the recent shooting in Santa Rosa, students are reinforcing safety precautions in public.

“I usually carry pepper spray with me when I go out as a safety measure because you never know what can happen, although this wouldn’t be super useful in a shooting situation. When me and my friends go to events or parties, I have to know my surroundings so I like to know my exits in case we have to leave quickly,” Said Madrigal-Lorenzo.

Students have also come to rely heavily on technology for safety, specifically using their cell phones to share location information with their friends and families. “I share my location with fellow friends who are attending and those who stay behind at home for emergencies,” Said Gonzalez. She even added that she has emergency services on speed dial.

There are shortcuts on cell phones to contacting authorities. For example, on the IPhone, if you press and hold the side and volume up button, it gives you the option to contact emergency services.

When it comes to safety, communication is key. “I always text my friends and family, when I make it home safely,” Says Balderas. Gonzalez stated she feels safer attending small gatherings with people she knows. Much of the details are still being investigated and witnesses at the party have not been cooperative according to authorities.

Mudslides along 101 create commuting difficulties

Amudslide created a break on Redwood Boulevard, along the freeway in Novato on Tuesday, March 21. A few days later on March 25, Southbound US 101 had to be closed to prevent further gas or water damage from Petaluma to Novato. It was reopened at about 1:30 p.m. the next day, according to the Marin County Sheriff.

Marin County Officials said this mudslide uncovered one of two PG&E gas main lines possibly creating pressure on a North Marin Water District aqueduct, which runs from Sonoma County to Marin County. Operating pressure was reduced because PG&E reported that they couldn’t visually assess the potential impact of the slide on the buried pipeline.

According to Marin County Fire Chief Jason Weber, “multiple agencies had to work together with PG&E to stabilize the hillside as much as possible to avert any additional damage to gas and water infrastructure.”

Faculty members and students commuting to campus were impacted by the closure of it.

SSU biology major Noémi Jackovicks lives on campus but commutes to Marin to see her family. She found the break “inconvenient and unfortunate for something like the weather to cause this but California had record rainfall this year so it makes sense. The roads are not ready to drain and handle flooding or a storm properly.”

Sonoma State communication professor, Gina Baleria commutes to campus from San Francisco, and stated that she “felt sorry when she saw the damage and destruction.”

A week after the incident, PG&E continued to manage the damages on Redwood Boulevard because “even under the dry conditions, the hill is moving. The landslide is moving. We further anticipate more land movement is very possible and anticipated,” said PG&E.

Katie O’Brien, the international student school advisor at SSU was also not surprised to see this incident with the current ground saturation. She also mentioned having a geology background and studied how to identify landslides, and potential landslide markers. For her “there are plenty of local hills that currently have those markers.”

“Right now, there’s no vehicle access. There’s not going to be any access along the bike path or the road until this gets repaired,” said Chief Park Ranger Vince Anibale.

PG&E says its engineers will have to wait until all the seasonal rain is over before they can conduct a thorough investigation and come up with a more permanent solution over the next coming months.

Johnson’s art recognized internationally

continued from pg. 1

Johnson grew up in the Bay Area and would study art at the University of California, Davis in the 1960s. He was renowned for his great art pieces constructed from steel and salvaged old-growth redwoods, made distinct via handcrafted detailing, copper etching and pounded metal. He described his art pieces as crosses between shinto shrines and Stonehenge. Many of his art pieces were so large that they had to be moved with trucks and cranes. According to his website, the Stonehenge inspiration is reflected by the “primal sense of scale, mass, and physical presence of his work” and the shinto shrine inspiration is shown through “the elegant craft and exquisite detail of sacred wood architecture.” Despite his rural base of operations, Johnson’s work would receive international recognition in Taiwan, Italy, and Spain, plus many private and public collections across the U.S.A.

Interim Art Gallery Director and Lecturer in Art History Jennifer Bethke says that Bruce’s works are deeply reflected in Sonoma County and the surrounding areas. “Crafted from massive pieces found in redwood embellished with copper, his art really speaks to the redwood-shrouded and ocean-bounded landscape of Sonoma County,” says Bethke.

In addition to sculptures, Johnson also used his skills in other projects, such as the construction of unique buildings, gardens, playgrounds, fountains, and so much more. Some of the work that he held close to his heart was work done on important buildings such as the historic Sea Ranch Chapel at Fort Ross, the Moon Gate at the Asian Art Museum, and the beautiful “Poetry House.”

Our thoughts are with Bruce Johnson and his family during this time of mourning. If you want to know more about Johnson’s work you can go visit his website at formandenergy.com. The Green Music Center and University Art Gallery will also be hosting a dedication for Johnson’s new sculpture on May 11.

CÉLIA ALINE AMARAL STAFF WRITER

STAR// Malia Teran

“Understanding Matter” sculpture by Bruce Johnson stands outside of SSU Green Music Center

COURTESY// @ssu_rowing on instagram SSU rowing alumni reached out with their pride and support for the team.

Arts & Entertainment 5

Juried Student Exhibition holds opening reception

this event two jurors Jeff Nathanson Executive Director and Curator of Art Museums of Sonoma County and Inez Storer, Artist get to select the pieces for the exhibition. At this exhibition, there are many types of artwork such as oil paintings, ceramics, printmaking, and drawings. Each piece of work displays a student’s unique individuality and creativity.

Fellow seawolf Owen Martinez-Alejandre made two ceramic pieces called the “Study of Two Animals.” The two animals were a crocodile and a wolf head. Each piece was made with a different type of kiln firings. Martinez-Alejandre said, “The wolf head was a Kutani and the crocodile was the raku firing.”Martinez -Alejandre then goes on to explain the process of each piece. The wolf head Martinez -Alejandre said, “was particularly challenging, it took 4 weeks to get the overall head in and I had the initial challenge of getting the mouthpiece in.”

Martinez-Alejandre had to do the wolf head in stages, especially with the complex interior details of the mouth and tongue. The crocodile was made with a raku firing technique which intrigued Martinez-Alejandre because of the different colors from the glaze he used. Martinez-Alejandre said, “I mostly like to concentrate on my ceramic work with animals, so trying to flourish them out was a lot of fun.”

Jirah Littlejohn, second year, majoring in an art studio and minoring in museum and gallery methods piece was called “Enigmatic,” which means mysterious. Her piece was a digital print that she drew on paper and then uploaded to procreate on the Ipad. She then colored and shaded her piece. Littlejohn said, “ I like the little details I put in like the piece sign in the hat, his grill, his nose ring, and the little detail on his nail polish, the hardest part was trying to figure out what the hair or the hat was gonna look like.”

Ash Gregorio, made a self-portrait where the assignment was to make yourself into another character or something that you are not used to dressing up as. Gregorio said, “I dressed up as a clown and painted my whole face and set up a studio.” With this portrait that has so much detail and had only three weeks to complete, finishing it on time took her 10 hours a day. This was the first time one of her pieces was in a gallery. Gregorio is continuing her passion and making another self-portrait that she says “is turning out better.”

The exhibition is now open on campus until April 23. For more information go to artgallery.sonoma.edu or follow them on Instagram @ssuartdepartment.

Sonoma Film Institute Presents: Chess of the Wind

The film “Chess of the Wind” by Mohammed Reza

Aslani was shown at Warren Auditorium in Ives Hall 101 for the first time this semester on Friday, March 31. The film started at 7 p.m. and lasted for an hour and 33 minutes. The film was in Farsi with English subtitles. The storyline of the film consists of a murder mystery involving a cruel man Haji Amou, who is suspected of killing the main character, Aghdas’ mother. Aghdas and her maid proceed to kill Amou to later find out he might not be fully dead. The film was set in 1976 in a huge mansion that Haji Amou claimed as his since his wife who owned it supposedly died. The film is about a conflict between the stepfather Amou and stepdaughter Aghdas whose original father never shows up in the picture.

There were only three viewers of the movie, and they all arrived on time. Warren Auditorium is larger than the classrooms that these films have been shown at previously in the semester. The lights were dim and would flicker every once in a while but as soon as the

film started the room became dark and quiet. No students showed up to the film, but a few students did have something to say before the night of the film.

When asked if he had ever heard of this film, Chris Orsi, sociology major in his fourth year at SSU, said that he had never heard of the film and that he could not attend due to a work conflict. Many people when asked could not go due to a work conflict or previous plans that they had made, but there was another showing of this film on Sunday, April 2 at 4 p.m.

Orsi said “I haven’t heard much about the Sonoma Film Institute. It’s not very advertised over the school.” He explained that he would go to see one of the films put on by the Film Institute if it was something that caught his eye or if he were to hear more advertising from them.

Michael Macias, a marketing major and first year at Sonoma State had not heard of the film before, or any of the others put on by the Film Institute. Macias is another student who could not attend due to a work conflict, as

he works on weekend nights. “I would see a film put on by Sonoma’s Film Institute if the scheduling works out,” said Macias.

Alexia Acosta, recent alumni from Sonoma State, did intend on seeing the film, but couldn’t due to last-minute plans. “I’ve heard of this film many times and when my friend sent me the list of the films that were scheduled I really wanted to go see this one.” Although Acosta couldn’t make it to this showing she does intend on going to a film that’s put on in the future.

One of the important quotes from this movie was “Owning things adds to one’s distinction,” and this was something that was sought after by Haji Amou, the reason why there was such conflict.

The Sonoma Film Institute has so far shown three films and will be presenting five more until the end of the semester. The next film to be shown on Friday, April 7 at 7 p.m. is “They All Laughed” by Peter Bogdanovich. Admission is free but there is a $5 suggested donation.

‘WarCircus’cast hosts a preview of show

“The Trojan Women,” in the aftermath of the Trojan war women’s fate is left to the Greek conquerors. Everybody is forced to participate in performing for a circus that has been traveling around for thousands of years to do an anti-war play. The play touched on what it means to be entertained while also asking what it means to be exploited. Trigger warning there are topics of sexual assault and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).

did in terms of making it like a circus atmosphere because it allows you to look at these terrible aspects of humanity and see them in a light that is different as opposed to doing a straight drama.” Galant added how the play was different from anything else he had ever done before “The play is a lot different, even the environment it is in with the whole circus atmosphere, it’s got a lot of important stories to tell and it’s entertaining.”

KATHLEEN MOOTZ STAFF WRITER

On March 29, The Theatre Arts and Dance hosted a preview of the upcoming performance “WarCircus” in Ives Hall. The play is an adaptation of

The director of the play Bret Lindsay mentioned what he thinks is going to surprise people about the performance “The thing that is most interesting to me is the line between comedy and tragedy, and where those two sorts of overlap once and a while.” Lindsey went on to describe how interesting it is to see the audience’s reactions “ If it raises questions in an audience that to me is interesting it is not there to give you answers.”Lindsey continued that the cast had a hand in putting some of the scripts together as well “Almost everyone had a hand in writing some of the scripts, I wanted to make sure that everybody had a voice in writing some of the words and developing their characters.”

Jarrett Galant, an acting major that plays one of the two greek soldiers mentioned that his favorite part of the play is “I liked what Bret, the director

“I love all the circus aspects of it and how there’s a story being told. We still get to do these really fun circus acts.” Elena O’Kane, a second-year criminology major who plays Cassandra, the truth-teller, talked about what her favorite part of the play is. O’Kane then began to discuss what she believed to be the most interesting part of the play to be “There are so many plot twists, I don’t think anyone’s really gonna know what is going to happen next and people are going to be surprised with how it turns out.”

Alice Tikoibau, a fourth-year sociology major that plays Hecuba, the matriarch mentioned who she would want to switch parts within the show; “Probably Elena with predictions just because every night it is going to be improv and you really never know which way it’s going to go, the role just is so fun and it’s my favorite part.” The play will be performed on April 6, 7 and 9 at Ives Hall room 119.

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The University Art Gallery at Sonoma State hosted the annual Juried Student Exhibition that will be open from March 30 through April 23, 2023. At

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COURTESY // @ssutheatredance on instagram The cast of the ‘WarCircus’ during their rehearsal in Ives.

STAR // Malia Teran Ash Gregorio self portrait 2022 oil painting at the Juried Student Exhibition.

Seawolves find ‘A Better High’ with Matt Bellace

multiple occasions.

Bellace has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and has studied at the National Institute of Mental Health as well as Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. Although he is very educated on the subject, Bellace took a comedic and light-hearted approach to covering the harsh reality of substance abuse.

Bellace began with explaining the importance of a strong support system, saying, “As you receive more support, self harm and depressive symptoms decrease.” Charts and statistics accompanied his claims. One graph that stood out was the growing trend of emergency room visits for self harm in teenagers. Even with social media seemingly making the masses closer than ever, he added that people are becoming increasingly lonelier.

While having strong friendships is important, Bellace stated, “The number one predictor of adolescent behavior is the people they lean on.” Although you need people to help get through difficult times, choosing the right people is equally important.

way the brain looks and works. Long-term heavy drinking causes alterations in the neurons, such as reductions in their size.” Bellace also added the statistic that, “Forty uses of cannabis shrinks the prefrontal cortex.” He made no mistake about the detrimental effects that substances have on our brain long-term.

While substances are harmful, people’s desire to take drugs stems from the body’s “feel good” chemicals such as dopamine. Bellace ensured the audience in attendance that substances are not the only way to receive those feel-good chemicals to the brain without long-term damage. Activities such as being in nature, exercising, and ice baths are all things that improve mental health. Bellace noted that the lasting effects of exercise on the brain are much higher than any substance.

Finding your purpose, doing things you enjoy, and being around the people you love will fulfill you more than any substance could. All of these produce a better high, as Bellace coined it.

“The most beautiful waves come from the biggest storms.” This is the message that Seawolves took away from “A Better High”, an event held by author, speaker and comedian Matt Bellace. The presentation focused on the statistics of substance abuse and how students can achieve happiness naturally.

The Director of Student Involvement at SSU, Mo Phillips, introduced Bellace by saying, “It’s always such a pleasure to work with him and see his effect on students.” Seeing the way students reacted to him, it is no surprise that he has been invited back to SSU on

Bellace continued with a topic that many college students are familiar with; the frequent use of alcohol and cannabis. Heavy alcohol use is often normalized in the college environment. During the presentation Bellace emphasized how, “Alcohol decreases anxiety short-term” and is detrimental to the brain. Anyone who has their first drink before twenty-one has an increased risk of alcohol dependency.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “Alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways and can affect the

Students in attendance showed a lot of enthusiasm and participation in the event. Victoria Lambert, a fifth year Economic and Statistics major at SSU, explained, “The presentation was very fun and entertaining. I learned a lot of useful techniques to cope with stress.” Bellace’s comedic style showed students that he understood and was on their side.

For more of his insight and work, you can read his book, “A Better High”, as well as his most recent work, “Life is Disappointing.” For addiction resources and more on the topic, Bellace recommended searching naturalhigh.org.

Get slimed at Weyden & Brewster

There can be weekends where students are unsure on what to do on campus here at Sonoma State. Student Involvements got you covered this week as they hosted their slime making craft workshop. For this event, which is part of their DIY Craft of the Week held every Saturday at 7 p.m. students were invited to come make slime and socialize with one another. Held in Weyden and Brewster, the tables came lined with all the supplies needed so that anyone could create their own slime masterpieces.

Student Involvement provided the ingredients to make slime along with plastic containers, wooden sticks and spoons with a sticker so students could personalize their creation. The basic components of slime are glue,borax and some food coloring to make it unique. To help all the participants learn to make slime, a step by step guide was posted on the wall for Seawolves to follow. Students could be seen mingling

amongst each other enjoying the crafting and the music playing. Participants were hard at work figuring out how to make the slime as it was some people’s first time ever making it for themselves.

Slime became a worldwide hit around 2016 and teenagers everywhere were mixing it up at home for themselves. The trend has cooled off but it is still a very popular activity amongst young people so this event really got the students’ attention who went.

When talking to freshman Victoria Valadez, she told me “I’m having fun making slime, it’s great that I’m getting to spend quality time with my friends as well as getting more involved in student life since this is my first year on campus.” When talking to another freshman student attending the event, Lauren Wieland said, “This is my first time making slime so I think it’s pretty cool that they put on an event for this, [Student Involvement] provided all the materials so they made it

easy to just show up… I was looking to do something fun this weekend and the slime making looked like an entertaining event to go with my friends.” These kinds of events are all about hanging out with friends, connecting to new people and most importantly, having fun. Not only did people get to socialize, they got to take home a “toy” that can even help with stress relief.

Student Involvement (SI) hosts plenty of fun events just like this one every week. Hailey Glass, who works for SI and was leading the event, said “This events goal was to get people out of their dorm this weekend, to meet new people and act as sort of an icebreaker for students coming and especially freshman, which helps them get more introduced to life here on campus at Sonoma State.” Whether you wanted to come to learn how to make slime or just hangout with some buddies and hopefully make some new friends along the way.

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Have you ever felt the burning desire to go workout, but never known what to do or how to do it?

The on-campus Rec Center has the perfect 30 minute solution for you. Every Wednesday starting at 6 p.m. Campus Recreation hosts an instructor-guided High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) class. HIIT is a series of timed exercises ranging in difficulty with an end goal of increasing the heart rate. Some examples of these exercises include split squats, burpees, curtsy lunges, bicycle crunches and many more that varied in intensity. With a pattern of 45 seconds on and 30 seconds off, each of the four exercise sets proved to be a great test.

One of the about 20 students participating was freshman Charlize Padilla. It was her first time attending a HIIT class. In an interview with the STAR, she mentioned how she was encouraged to come by her peers. Padilla is a big fan of similar exercise classes that are held at the Rec and said, “I like how [Campus Recreation] events introduce a different type of workout every week.” Inside the class of about 20 people, there were only female Seawolves in attendance. . Charlize herself is a fitness enthusiast and said “this event was fun to go to because it was a quick and easy workout.”

After the 30 minute workout and some cool-down stretching, the STAR caught up with the class’s instructor, Alex Guevara. He talked about how the weekly Campus Recreation Events are great for students, who spend a good amount of time behind a computer. A study by The Mirror backed this up and states that students spend an average of 40 hours on their computers per week. Guevara said, “getting the body moving is very healthy for college students.” He also said, “we’re usually sitting at a desk working at a computer for most of the day, even 30 minutes of a good workout is beneficial.”

The Campus Recreation portal hosts a wide array of activities and exercises to actively stimulate students. They have an event calendar on campusrec. sonoma.edu that gives students different options to choose from. These events take place weekly and include everything physical as well as fun activities that look to improve students’ mental health and well-being. Physical events happening this week include: an introduction to climbing clinics, Buti yoga, introductory yoga, cycling class, jazzercise and another HIIT class. The Rec Center offers two great calming activities: a stress reduction class and playing games with CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services).

These events can be outlets for students looking to get out of their routine.

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STAR // Dennae Taylor Matt Bellace invites students up on stage to have a discussion.

STAR // Alec Padilla Seawolves take part in the weekly HIIT workout located in the dance studio.

Sports 7

Softball continues grand slam season

TheSonoma State Softball team has been on a tear in the CCAA from players reaching milestones to their recent success in the CCAA Tournament of Champions. Giana Hays, Anna Zoia-Buescher, and Courtney Jack all reached 100 career hits, while Jordyn Martinez and Buescher were named to the 2023 Tucci/NFCA DII Player of the Year watchlist.

Jack, a senior in early childhood studies and American multicultural education, is in her last season but is determined to end on a high note. In a sport where everything is built around failures, she wants to make sure she leaves everything on the field.

“It means a lot to see successes in a game that is built around failures. It is hard to acknowledge when getting a hit three out of ten times is seen as a success. But getting to 100 hits in my career is awesome knowing how hard it is in this game. I am still hunting for more knowing that this is only the middle of the season and my team and I have a lot more to accomplish. I hope to continue going up from here.”

Jack motivates her team through her successes and comradery and is always looking to get better. It is truly her team that keeps her motivated to “stay in shape” and go to the field and get her reps in.

Martinez is in her fifth year and is majoring in childhood development. As a catcher and a captain of the softball team, she believes in hard work, always going for more and having fun.

“I know how much work my teammates are putting in, and I want to be a good captain for them and lead by example.” After receiving the news regarding the watchlist Martinez was surprised and did not have this specific goal in mind, yet feels that awards and achievements make her want to become better.

“It’s a great honor. Honestly, I was not expecting it at all, it feels good to be recog nized for all of my hard work. For me personally once I reach a milestone, it just makes me want to go even further. Never settle, always go for more,” Martinez said. Martinez is having a stellar year, averaging .416 at the plate with 37 hits, 24 RBI’s and a slugging percentage of .607.

During the Tournament of Champions this past weekend, Sonoma State went 3-2 leaving Turlock with an overall record of 25-6. Sonoma State first faced off against Western Oregon defeating them 9-1 totaling 11 hits as a team. Junior Rylee Nishimoto earned herself a hat trick on the day, going 3 for 3 with an RBI. Right-handed pitcher Nichole Sarra got her eighth win, only allowing one hit and one run.

The second game was a close battle against Western Washington but ultimately SSU came up short. Sonoma had trouble taking care of the softball, giving up five er-

COURTESY // @sonomaseawolves on Instagram

Three Seawolves reached a career milestone together.

rors contributing to their 4-3 loss. The Seawolves rallied for day two and went on to defeat Northwest Nazarene University 7-0. Charlie Johnson recorded the victory as she pitched a complete game shutout only giving up five hits. She now brings her consecutive innings without an earned run streak to 46 innings. Martinez led the team offensively with three hits while senior Cassidy Romano had five RBIs with the help of a six-run lead grand slam.

In game three against Hawaii Hilo, Sonoma fell short and lost 5-0. The Vulcans scored one in the first, two in the third and two more in the fourth to run out their lead. To close out the TOC the Seawolves beat Hawaii, Pacific, 3-0, recording a 3-2 series win on the weekend. Johnson earns TOC All-Tournament Team honors after finishing with two wins in 23.2 innings pitched and an astounding 0.00 ERA.

A day in the life: Blake Janowicz

local sandwich shop, Sonoma Sourdough. After lunch, Janowicz and his roommate and teammate, Sean Pauly, will play MLB the Show on Xbox before packing their backpacks and heading to practice.

Before baseball practice, Janowicz and the rest of the team have strength training with Anthony Ponzo, SSU’s strength and conditioning coach from noon to 1:00 p.m. Normal practice with the team starts 15 minutes later and begins with “Run, Catch, Stretch”, before the pitchers split off to do more arm warm-ups. The pitchers will play some catch to warm up and hone their technique by throwing a light bullpen to simulate pitches from the mound in a game. The pitchers will also help field “PFPs”, or pitching fielding practice, and shag balls for the team’s batting practice.

After practice ends, Janowicz has to run to his senior electrical engineering classes which begins at 2:30 p.m. and ends at 6:45 p.m. Janowicz said, “I’ve always had to find a balance between school, baseball, and social life the past 4 years, so with a lot of experience it has become easier to handle workloads and time management.”

He continued, “Usually at the start of every week, I’ll create a schedule of assignments I need to complete on certain days so I have time to practice and pace myself with rest after.”

After class, Janowicz will make himself dinner, usually consisting of his Costco favorites, lasagna, or a rotisserie chicken. After dinner, Janowicz works on more homework and attends to the needs of the Electrical Engineering club as their treasurer during his free time.

Janowicz’s faith is very important to him, as he is a member of the InterVarsity club on campus, which helps connect students and athletes to their faith. Blake leads the baseball team’s bible study through this club, as well as Amari Houston with the softball team. He also regularly attends Hessel Church in Sebastopol, a non-denominational Christian church that has been in Sonoma County for over 113 years.

Sophomore Seawolf, Blake Janowicz, gives us a peek into his life and daily routine as he balances the responsibilities of being a college student-athlete.

Janowicz starts his day around 8:30 a.m. with a routine of resistance band exercises to stretch his shoulder, important upkeep for a pitcher. He will then have a regular breakfast of six fried eggs and read a section of the book, “The Traveler’s Gift”, on game days. On Sunday game days, he often treats himself to a breakfast burrito from El Rancho at the Wolf Den Plaza.

After his morning routine, Blake finds time to work on his engineering homework before making his lunch or grabbing a #17 turkey club at his favorite

Before games, Janowicz leads a prayer group on the team which will huddle up during the pregame to say a short prayer. Then the pitchers will circle up to stretch and the last pitcher to throw in the previous game will come up with a word of the day and use it in a sentence. The pitchers will also play hackysack to keep their reflexes sharp.

Janowicz and the Seawolves traveled to Cal State San Bernardino this past weekend for a four-game series against the Coyotes. The Seawolves lost their first two games on Friday and Saturday but stole the third, winning 5-2. The Seawolves were unable to keep their momentum on Sunday and fell to the Coyotes, 13-3. SSU will have a six-game homestand this week before traveling to face Cal State Los Angeles on April 14.

STAFF WRITER

COURTESY // Evan Roehrig

Baseball pitcher Jake Janowicz shares what life is like for a student-athlete and the rigorous schedule that comes with it.

TITO FUENTES STAFF WRITER

COURTESY // @sonomaseawolves on Instagram Teammates Martinez and Zoia-Buescher are having stellar season.

COOPER PERRY

SSU Art Studio Program featured at University Art Gallery

STAR // Malia Teran Emma Thomas poses infront of student art being featured in the University Art Gallery.

STAR // Dennae Taylor Free Mountain Mikes pizza was availale for students to eat.

STAR // Dennae Taylor

Seawolves were invited to enjoy free pizza and play board games with their friends in Wayden & Brewsters on March 31st.

STAR // Dennae Taylor

Students sit back as they learn about the game “Logo”. A variety of board games were available to play.

STAR // Malia Teran

Painting by Masie Keefhaver, Post Storm 2022, Acrylic.

STAR // Malia Teran

Work from a variety of students was featured at the exhibition, including this piece by Jeida Lavender, Beamski 2022, oil painting on plywood.

STAR // Malia Teran Wine was available to attendees 21+ allowing them to indulge while taking in art at the student exhibition.