Issue 3

IN THIS ISSUE

Black History

The ‘Celebrating Family’ exhibit is on display in Petaluma storefronts.

PAGE 6.

Rec Center re-opening

‘Spring Awakening’

The opening performance will be held on Zoom, Feb. 17.

PAGE 7.

The SSU Recreation Center is opening for limited outdoor activities PAGE 10.

SINCE 1979

VOLUME 87 // ISSUE 3 FEBRUARY 16, 2021 - FEBUARY 22, 2021

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

@SONOMASTATESTAR

STAR // Andrew Savedra This Goldfinch, in the same family as the Pine Siskin, runs the risk of contracting Salmonellosis whenever it goes to a bird feeder or bath.

Salmonella outbreak affects local songbird populations

CHEYENNE CARROLL STAFF WRITER

STAR//Isabelle Barkey A booth outside the In-n-Out in Rohnert Park is one of many locations where signatures are being collected to call for the removal of California Gov. Gavin Newsom from office.

Campaign to recall Gov. Newsom hits Sonoma County

CALLIE ADAMS STAFF WRITER

alifornia State Gov. Gavin Newsom is facing a growing campaign that demands he be removed from office before the conclusion of his term. The “Recall Gavin Newsom” campaign alleges that Newsom C has handled the COVID-19 pandemic in a dissatisfactory manner, as well as mishandled lockdowns,

homelessness, restrictions on small businesses, illegal immigration, water rationing in cities, and a wide variety of other issues, both related to the pandemic and not.

The campaign began this February, amid months of growing unease from some Californians, particularly conservative voters. In Nov. 2020, Newsom attended an indoor, multi-household birthday party at the French Laundry restaurant in local Napa County that violated his own COVID-19 restrictions for the state, inciting outrage from citizens who felt that his dismissal of regulations that he previously endorsed was “elitist,” according to business owner D’Lee Daleo, who spoke to the Associated Press.

Daleo has been open about her frustration with Newsom’s administration, and also told the Associated Press, “ [Small businesses] just feel like we’re being unfairly targeted.”

Newsom has since publicly apologized for the birthday party incident, expressing that he, “made a bad mistake.”

“The spirit of what I’m preaching all the time was contradicted,” he said, “I need to preach and practice, not just preach.”

Apart from concerns about COVID-19 restrictions and vaccine administration, businesses in Sonoma and Napa counties that have dubbed themselves, “The Wine Country Coalition,” opened a lawsuit last month against Newsom for closing outdoor dining.

This lawsuit includes specific claims and testimonials from wineries and restaurants that allege COVID-19 restrictions are going to put them out of business, and they claim that their outdoor dining has not led to an increase in COVID-19 exposures, therefore they should be permitted to reopen.

Other sources, however, argue that any public gatherings can be dangerous to people’s health, even, “medium-sized in-person gatherings that are adapted to allow individuals to remain spaced at least 6 feet apart,” according to CDC data from Jan. “SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is thought to be mostly spread by respiratory droplets

A

large outbreak of a disease caused by the Salmonella bacteria is rapidly spreading among finches in Northern California. The disease kills most infected birds between 24 and 48 hours after infection, and spreads quickly when birds gather in large groups.

Pine Siskins are the primary bird being affected, but Lesser Goldfinches and American Goldfinches are affected in smaller numbers.

According to California Department of Fish and Wildlife Senior Environmental Scientist, Krysta Rogers, the disease, Salmonellosis, is caused by a variant of the Salmonella bacteria called Salmonella Typhimurium. Outbreaks occur periodically in Pine Siskins, but the current outbreak is particularly rampant.

“It’s rare to have a massive outbreak like this one,”explained Alison Hermance, Director of Communications at WildCare in San Rafael.

“By intake numbers in the [WildCare] Wildlife Hospital, the last larger outbreak -76 birds admitted- was in 2015. Before that, it was 2008. Most years see fewer than a dozen Pine Siskins admitted with salmonellosis symptoms. Since December we have admitted 136 sick Pine Siskins,” she said.

Locally, Katie Miller, the hospital manager at The Bird Rescue Center of Sonoma County, explained that “this is by far the worst outbreak The Bird Rescue Center has ever witnessed… we have admitted over 250 patients in 2021 – more than double our average – and over 40% of these admits are due to the current Salmonella outbreak. Generally, we get at least one new salmonella case everyday, though some days we intake more than 5 affected individuals. ” On a larger scale, Rogers explained that between Dec. 20 and Feb. 8, there have been 1,044 mortality reports statewide, and “the highest number of reports are from Sonoma, Marin, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Contra Costa, and Santa Cruz counties,” respectively.

She said the absolute number of cases is likely much higher, as figures and estimates are based on community members reporting sick or dead birds, and data is skewed towards areas that have higher human populations.

Rogers and Miller both said that outbreaks occur due to the changing migratory patterns of Pine Siskins, which migrate based on food availability and not

see RECALL on pg. 4

STAR// Andrew Savedra SOMO Village will partake in Sonoma County Restaurant Week from Feb. 19-28, along with over 50 other local restaurants.

Sonoma County hospitality industry hopes ‘Restaurant Week’ will make up lost revenue

CAROLINE MORALES STAFF WRITER

A

mid the COVID-19 pandemic, Sonoma County will continue the tradition of supporting local businesses Feb. 19-28 during their annual Sonoma County Restaurant Week.

According to Sonoma County Tourism the vast variety of participating restaurants, “will present fantastic dishes and culinary creations available for outdoor dining and take out” for those willing to safely visit these restaurants.”

Retrograde Coffee Roasters Co-Founder Danielle Connor said Sonoma County Restaurant week, “... was created to drive more traffic to restaurants and help people see RESTAURANT WEEK on pg. 4

see NORCAL BIRDS on pg. 4

COURTESY//Flickr from Phil Roeder Protesters gather on Jan. 13 in support of impeaching Trump for the second time.

Trump acquitted by the Senate KRISTINA SCHMUHL AND ILEANA ALEMAN NEWS EDITOR AND STAFF WRITER

D

onald J. Trump was acquitted by the Senate in a historic impeachment trial that took place after the president left office. The trial concluded on Saturday with a vote of 57 to 43, falling short of the two-thirds majority needed to convict the president.

Now that Trump has been acquitted, he is able to run for a second term, meaning he could run for President again as soon as 2024.

Trump is only the second president to have ever been impeached twice by the House of Representatives, most recently with a vote of 232 to 197 that took place on Jan. 13.

Impeachment was pushed forward by Congress due to Trump’s role in a violent riot and breach of the Capitol building by a mob of supporters attempting to prevent the certification of electoral college votes for president elect Joe Biden on Jan. 6. Members of Congress and senators were forced to evacuate and go into hiding for their safety as the mob overtook Capitol police and illegally ensee IMPEACHMENT on pg. 4

2 Editorial THE STAR

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine: Is it worth it?

Editorial Board

Kylie Rose Lawrence, Editor-in-Chief Kristina Schmuhl, News Editor Katelyn Dodge, Opinion Editor Christy Chew, Arts & Entertainment Editor Myles Grabau, Student Life Editor Emily Cripe, Health & Wellness Editor Brandon Sparks, Photo Editor Gil Chaffer, Copy Editor Bryce Gallagher, Distribution Manager Corinne Asturias, Faculty Adviser Staff Writers Callie Adams, Ileana Aleman, Emily Alvarado, Jayline Alvarado, Julia Blair, Zena Bounsall, Kaitlin Breen, Cheyenne Carroll, Katlyn Dodge, Casey Fabbri, Sumiko Fong, Bryce Gallagher, Gabriella Hermogeno, KC Holtemann, Olivia Hughes, Nancy Insua, Willy Lepori, Quinn McKibbin, Morgan Mitchell, Caroline Morales, Sondra Ottenstein, Samantha Pezzola, Noah Philpott, Anthony Pilotti, Mary Helen Rowell, Matthew Smith, Vincent Spence

Photographers Isabelle Barkey, Pammy Meyers, Andrew Savedra

Nichols Hall 323, 1801 East Cotati Ave Rohnert Park, CA 94928 Telephone: 707-664-2776 Business & General Inquiries: sonomastatestar@gmail.com Corrections and News Tips: star@sonoma.edu

Editor’s Pick This week’s can’t miss article:

“Sonoma County church plans large retreat despite multiple health order violations” Read the article on page 11.

Have an opinion?

We’d like to hear from you!

The STAR welcomes letters to the editor at star@sonoma.edu

Publication The STAR is published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters. Printing is done by Sonoma Media Group. 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.

Letters to the Editor

Letter writers may expect prompt publication in the newspaper’s op-ed section, as space is available. Letters of up to 400 words will be allowed and must be submitted no later than the Friday before the publication date. Published letters must be free of libel, since the publication is held legally accountable for all content. Although personal controversy will be tolerated, it is the responsibility of the editor to check statements purporting the facts.

The STAR reserves the right to refuse publication.

I

n December of 2020, months into the global-wide pandemic, the long-awaited vaccination process for the COVID-19 virus began. According to the New York Times, the virus has killed more than 1.6 million people and sickened more than 76 million over the last year.

America is still battling to contain the spread of the deadly virus, but many Americans are hesitant to get the vaccination.

Because large amounts of the vaccine are not currently available, the Center for Disease Control is implementing a tiered-plan to ensure that those in the community who are most at risk are receiving their vaccinations first. Currently, the vaccines are only being offered to healthcare workers, long-term care facility residents, and people 75 years of age or older.

“As of Wednesday, 76,936 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccine have been administered to Sonoma County residents, the equivalent of one dose going to 15.4% of the total population,” stated a Press Democrat article from this past week.

“However, most bordering counties continue to outpace Sonoma County in vaccinating their populations,” the Press Democrat article continued.

“Napa (19.0%), Marin (18.2%) and Mendocino (17.1%) all have delivered more doses on a per capita basis.” Overall, Sonoma County has the 12th highest vaccination rate among the state’s 58 counties, according to data compiled by the State Department of Public Health.

“In relation to many different counties in California, we’re doing very, very well,” said the Sonoma County Vaccine Chief, Dr. Urmilia Shende. “We’re making progress, and we’re administering doses at a faster rate than other counties of our size.”

On the other hand, Sonoma County’s current rate of vaccination is far from ideal, according to Supervisor Lynda Hopkins.

“If we were to vaccinate every single person in Sonoma County, half a million people, multiply that by two because there are two doses, that’s a million.

If you’re looking at our current rate of vaccination, we’re talking about three years,” Hopkins said.

The next group of people who will have permission to get the vaccine are frontline essential workers, people aged 16-64 years with underlying medical conditions, and people 65 years of age or older. The CDC established that frontline essential workers include fire fighters, police officers, corrections officers, food and agricultural workers, United States Postal

Courtesy // MTA on Flickr.com

Service workers, manufacturing workers, grocery store employees, public transit workers, and those who work in the educational sector.

Those wondering when the next phase will begin are not alone. “I wish we could give you a specific date for 65 and older, but it depends on our overall supply level, and how quickly we can continue to vaccinate,” Dr. Shende said.

The vaccine is highly sought after and may be our country’s only hope for returning to normalcy in the next few years, but some Americans are reluctant to get it in the first place.

The immunization registry of Sonoma County states that 89.60% of Sonoma County residents are willing to get the vaccine, which means that more than 10% of residents are still unsure about getting the vaccine. This is most likely due to the confusion and mystery that surrounds the vaccine and the virus itself.

Popular myths about the vaccine include claims that the vaccine itself will give recipients COVID-19, it will cause one to test positive for the virus, and that if someone has already been sick with the virus, they don’t need the vaccine because they are immune. These are all myths and have been proven incorrect by rigorous scientific trials.

None of the vaccines in the United States use the live virus. The goal of the vaccine is to teach the human body how to recognize and fight off the virus, which is why one may feel symptoms after their doses.

This does not mean that one is becoming infected or sick from the virus. Additionally, the unfortunate truth about the virus is that one can be re-infected, and it’s been seen numerous times in the past year. So, just because someone has had the virus before, that does not mean they are immune and do not need to get the vaccine--they still are recommended to.

A lot of hesitancy in getting the vaccine may stem from lack of knowledge about what the vaccines are, how they work, and what the differences are between the various kinds of vaccines.

According to STAT News, the Pfizer vaccine showed 95% efficiency at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection after two doses, while the Moderna vaccine was 94.1% effective after the second dose.

The CDC has established that the “COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Millions of people in the United States

have received COVID-19 vaccines, and these vaccines have undergone the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history.”

Unfortunately, Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines “were tested before the emergence of troubling new variants of the virus in Britain, South Africa, and Brazil. It’s not entirely clear how well they will work against these mutated viruses,” STAT News stated.

Thankfully, a sliver of hope remains. Last Friday, Johnson & Johnson announced that a one-dose vaccine is being developed by its vaccines division, Janssen Pharmaceuticals. It has been shown to be 66% protective against moderate to severe COVID-19 infection, in a multicountry study. Johnson & Johnson said it will apply to the Food and Drug Administration for an emergency use authorization this week. That means sometime later this month or early in March, their vaccine will likely start to be used in the United States.

As of Monday, Sonoma County has reported 26,189 positive Coronavirus tests and 265 deaths, according to county data.

45,681 vaccine doses have been administered. The war against the COVID-19 virus is far from over, and it is time that everyone takes responsibility for the perpetuation of this deadly virus.

Healthcare and other essential workers have carried the most weight when it comes to this virus, and now that a vaccine is beginning to be administered, regular civilians need to, as they say, “pull themselves up by their bootstraps” and go get the vaccine--of course, only when they have received permission and their phase begins.

We are living in a frightening and unprecedented time, one that most American citizens have never experienced before.

There is so much mystery surrounding the virus and vaccine, but there also is a lot of misinformation being spread. If you are fearful of receiving the vaccine, do some research. The more knowledge you have about it, the less frightening it will be.

For our own health and wellbeing, as well as those around us, we need to be brave and take advantage of the help that is being provided. It is time that regular Americans step up and take it upon themselves to help contain the spread of COVID-19. Wearing a mask and social distancing is not enough-we have seen that in the past year. People will continue to die, unless something changes.

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. The board encourages readers to write letters to the editor about all topics, including the editorial.

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2020

sonomastatestar.com

Aunt Jemima’s long awaited rebrand

NANCY INSUA

STAFF WRITER

Q

uaker Oats is set to debut a rebranding for the popular pancake mix and syrup popularly known for decades as Aunt Jemima. It featured what many have identified as a racist caricature of a black woman on all the Aunt Jemima products, most famously pancake mix and syrup bottles. These items will now be sold under the name Pearl Milling Company. The loved products will still be easily recognizable for shoppers as it features a similar font and the same iconic red labeling. This is a very welcomed change for the brand and an important step is ending racial stereotyping.

A spokesperson from the Quaker Oats parent company Pepsico made the following remarks in addressing the rebrand. “We are starting a new day with Pearl Milling Company, a new day root-

ed in the brand’s historic beginnings and its mission to create moments that matter at the breakfast table.” The name Pearl Milling Company serves as a nod to the original factory the pancake mix originated in. The brand said they worked with many teams since June 2020, when the rebrand was officially announced, to effectively find a way to showcase these products in a new light.

In June 2020 when these comments were made by Kristin Kroepfl, the Vice President of Quaker Foods, “We recognize Aunt Jemima’s origins are based on a racial stereotype, as we work to make progress toward racial equality through several initiatives, we also must take a hard look at our portfolio of brands and ensure they reflect our values and meet our consumers’ expectations.” The items displaying their new name are set to hit shelves this June. When we examine the racist origins of the logo and why it’s essential to be replaced, Michael Twitty a culinary historian said “The character of Aunt Jemima is an invitation to white people to indulge in a fantasy of enslaved people and by extension, all of Black America as submissive, selfeffacing, loyal, pacified and pacifying.

It positions Black people as boxed in, prepackaged and ready to satisfy; it’s the problem of all consumption, only laced with racial overtones”.

2020 brought many things to the surface, and with the influx of support

Opinion 3

for the Black Lives Matter movement what followed was an influx of brands and companies being forced to address the racism evident in their logos and history. While this can be claimed as a victory as we see more industries accepting their failures it must serve as a reminder of how long we allowed for these injustices to occur. It will be important to continue to push for equality and advocate for a platform for black Americans to use their voice. It will be the only way to wield real change and make any progress towards equality in our country.

While 2020 served as a launching pad for many of these issues as we move into the new year we must recognize the work is only just getting started.

Brad Weekes, a strategic communications professional said, “Brands need to recognize that whatever their business is or whatever customer they traditionally serve, racial and social equality is relevant to them and there is an imperative to speak out against injustice, not just when it’s trending, but as an ongoing part of their identity”.

So while we can celebrate the victory of brands like Quaker Oats recognizing the offensive of using a racist caricature for their advertising for decades, let’s not give them more credit than what is due. Immense work from all American industries will be essential in healing our country from its racist past.

Disney closes Blue Sky animation studio

JULIA BLAIR

STAFF WRITER

I

ndustries such as entertainment are having to make major cuts in their networks in order to stay af loat with the current economy. This week, Walt Disney announced the popular animation studio Blue Sky awaits shutdown after economic downfall from this year. All areas of business have had to change but this was an unexpected closure for the brand to bear only a year after the cancellation of their last film Nimona.

Walt Disney studio spokesperson stated, “ Given the current economic realities, after much consideration and evaluation, we have made the difficult decision to close filmmaking operations at Blue Sky Studio. Maintaining a third animation label has become untenable during this time.” This decision comes as an aftershock of the entertainment industry’s economic downfall concerning live events amidst COVID-19.

LA Times reported Disney, and entertainment companies alike have been struck by this pandemic and the vitality necessary from the audience and interest/ability to attend live events.

The company said their net loss was 2.8 million for the year of 2020 and 32,000 people will have been laid off. Employees who are part of the studio division and theme park staff were said to be large parts of the loss.

Many people who work in those divisions would most likely desire to return once the vaccine is more accessible, thus abandoning their employment in the meantime has deserted employees. These are the same employees who helped create positive moments for thousands of people, and are now being hit very hard.

Rather than forging a creative path, a path like Disney has showcased through many of their stories, they let thousands of employees face these times alone. Business Insider reported that as of last year the company’s net worth is estimated to be around 130 billion dollars. Despite the financial challenges the company has faced , these challenges do not compare to the thousands of employees experiencing abandonment, financially from their job. The same network that has brought hope for

so long is showing a different side when it comes to trying to protect their bottom line.

Chairman of Disney Parks, Josh D’Amaro told CNN that certain employees who would typically work in parks or in newly closed sections of the company would be furloughed until restrictions were lifted. However, this announcement has come without any relief to support the employees throughout their wait to return. Ultimately, while many companies are having to let go of many jobs and projects, Disney is a disappointing example of a profit over everything type of layoffs experienced.

However, Disney has been an interesting outlet to observe throughout these times, because so many people are turning to their stories and looking for hope in an unprecedented time. There is a shift starting to happen towards preferring the digital movie experience because of the adaptation of lifestyles over the last few months. Perhaps, there could be more employment opportunities because of the outlet’s success.

This could be a positive change for employees as well as the company to start heading towards a new path. This trend will continue to soar for months to come this year and many years after that.

College students suffer from COVID-19 solitude

ZENA BOUNSAL STAFF WRITER

S

olitude can come hand in hand with depression and anxiety, especially when experiencing a global pandemic. College students across the globe have had their daily routines uprooted and transformed into a constant gaze at their computer screens. A study done by the National Center for Biotechnology Information states “Results showed that moderate or severe depression level was associated with higher time spent on TV watching and use of computers”.

Not only is there evidence that suggests a link between screen-time and depression, but there is also confirmation of physical symptoms that can affect a student’s well-being. This, in combination with a heavy school-workload, is a recipe for stress and anxiety.

Some students feel that their lack of routine has put a damper on a sense of self-discipline.

Turns out that setting your alarm extra early, finding a parking spot on time at Sonoma State, and attending in-person classes make for a more well-rounded notion of productivity. McKenzie Thomas, a Sonoma State senior said “In the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown I was excited to spend time tending to my household duties and reorganizing, but after a while I realized I could only clean out my closet so many times. Since then, my routine has not measured up to the productivity level that I would have imagined for my senior year in college”.

Another important element in a student’s academic career is socialization. Small interactions in classrooms can affect the course of a person’s day and may help those struggling with loneliness to feel less isolated. Many connections are made on campus, whether they be in a classroom setting, in a club or in an extracurricular activity .

Calvin Bartholow, a Santa Rosa Junior College student said “As a student who struggles with mental illness it’s been really hard adapting to the new zoom generation of going to school. One thing that I loved about school was being present in class with my fellow students so that I didn’t feel so alone. During my alone time in lockdown, I realized that I had no other choice but to be alone with my thoughts, which didn’t exactly feel like a blessing at that point in time because it was sudden, and it seemed like the rest of the world was at odds. Even now with businesses still opening up, I spend a lot of time battling emotions as a student who doesn’t get to socialize on campus”. Isolation can reerupt pain or past trauma, especially when there isn’t any certainty in knowing that social distancing will end anytime soon. During this crisis, it’s important that teachers also take their students emotional struggles seriously, and try to work with them.

During Zoom meetings students are still able to meet in “breakout rooms”, but the experience is close to sub-par. Truthfully, many entered breakout rooms have consisted of silence. Remote meetings are awkward, and it’s hard to pay full attention when you see yourself in the corner of the screen being recorded. Hyper awareness typically leads to feeling tense, thus creating a conversation doesn’t flow easily. Hindered conversations also occur due to a delay in Zoom’s speech volume.

Sonoma State University offers Counseling and Psychological Services, as they voice that they are passionate about helping you with your mental health. They provide support through Zoom and phone conferencing, and ask that you never hesitate to call them at (707) 664-2153. During harsh times like these, it is important to reach out to a friend, colleague or further resources.

Britney Spears’ conservatorship continues against her wishes

JAYLINE ALVARADO

STAFF WRITER

A

fter the premiere of the New York Times documentary “Framing Britney Spears”, there’s been a renewed interest in the battle for the conservatorship of Britney Spears. A conservatorship is a judge-appointed guardian who manages another person’s finances or even daily life, due to the person’s mental state, physical limitations or

old age. In this case, Britney Spears has been in a conservatorship for the past thirteen years under the care of her father.

What started off as a temporary conservatorship, turned into a permanent one. At first, it might have been good--even a healthy idea--for Britney Spears to be under a conservatorship, due to mental health issues that led to multiple public breakdowns--like her shaving her hair off in 2007.

It has been thirteen years of not being able to control her own assets or even choose her own appearances because she’s under the control of her father. Especially, when Britney herself has challenged her father’s role in her conservatorship. Entertainment Tonight found that James Spears’ “Business dealings lost her over $300,000,” and that he’d also been making business decisions without her knowledge, involving TriStar Sports and Entertainment Group, Spears’ former management, who was being “paid 5% commission on her gross entertainment-related income” as well as a “$500k annual minimum

which resulted in the loss of more than $300,000 after her hiatus since 2019.”

However, in that same Entertainment Tonight article, Jamie Spears and his legal team argue that all he’s ever done is in the best interests of his daughter and that he was responsible for getting Britney Spears to be worth $60 million. He claims he wasn’t “obligated” to give Britney or Sam Ingham, Britney’s attorney, notice of TriStar’s resignation as her management company.

According to Insider, Jamie Lynn Spears, Britney’s sister was secretly named “A trustee on Spears’ SJB Revocable Trust in 2018. A trust meant to go to her children is now controlled by her sister without her consent and she has no power to challenge it. If anything happens to Britney, Jamie Lynn, who is now “requesting that the court move the assets into Fidelity Brokerage Services accounts with her as the custodian”, making it so Britney would have no authority over her accounts, only able to watch the money move. Jamie has absolute control over Britney’s children’s trust and wouldn’t even have to give them a penny.

Should Jamie Spears be removed as Britney’s conservator he stands to lose control of a public figure who is worth millions of dollars and having direct control of her finances and her appearances. When the control of millions of dollars is on the line the motivations of everyone involved should be put into question. What reasons are there that Britney would rather have Bessemer Trust Company as her sole conservator instead of her father raises questions about the care she may be receiving as well? Who truly has her best interest at heart; is it someone who doesn’t want to cede control of her assets despite her multiple attempts or is it someone else?

If Britney is capable of handling her own assets and her own life she should be in control and not have this conservatorship for the rest of her life. If she wants to remain in a conservatorship just with a different conservator that’s her decision. It should be with someone who has her best interest at heart and not a person who is using her for personal gain.

4 News

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

STAR // Andrew Savedra Residents are encouraged to dump water from bird baths to prevent congregations of song birds.

Northern California birds face salmonella epidemic continued from pg. 1

solely on geographic location.

“The hypothesis behind the severity of the current 20202021 outbreak is due to the massive pine siskin ‘irruption’ – mass migration of pine siskins south from Canada’s Boreal forest in search of better food supplies. According to a recent article from The National Audubon Society, this winter’s irruption is one of the largest in recorded history,” Miller stated in an email.

The article, published in Oct. 2020, explained that the birds migrate “southward in years when there is a shortage of food in their home range. This year, a meager supply of conifer seeds across Canada’s boreal forest has caused the birds to push south in mind-boggling numbers.”

While the vast majority of cases occur within the Pine Siskin population, the Bird Rescue Center is also seeing cases of Salmonellosis in Purple Finches and House Finches, which is unusual compared to previous years.

The Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue, among other wildlife rescue organizations, are telling community members to remove bird feeders and bird baths, to prevent large gatherings of birds. Salmonellosis spreads quickly and easily when large groups of birds gather in concentrated areas.

Hermance also explained that it’s important that individuals regularly clean their feeders, bird baths, and birdhouses.

“Outbreaks like this happen because birdfeeders aren’t kept clean. If you are feeding birds, you have a responsibility to make sure your feeder is clean and disease-free. Washing and bleaching with a ten percent bleach solution (nine parts water to one part bleach) weekly will prevent diseases like Salmonel-

losis from killing our songbirds,” she said.

Miller warned that pets and children are at risk of infection if they touch or come in contact with dead or infected birds, as well as contaminated feeders and bird baths, and stressed that “once it is safe to put our feeders and baths back up, it is imperative they be cleaned on a weekly basis, year round.” The recommendation is to refrain from putting out feeders and baths until late spring, when Pine Siskins go back north.

Juan Mendoza, a Santa Rosa native who works at Absolute Homes and Gardens in Sebastopol, had been occasionally filling his feeders when he started to notice sick birds in his yard.

“Around December, I went and got a little bag [of food], almost like a Christmas present to the wild birds, and I did two of my feeders instead of 10 of my feeders... then I started noticing extra shabby little birds… they seemed… quieter, and… they were fluffed up… and they just didn’t look right,” he explained.

When he found a dead bird he “completely stopped feeding and I started washing my bird baths and wash[ing] the bird feeders.”

As a person who owned pet parakeets as a child and regularly rescues birds, Mendoza explained that the best way to help wildlife is to replace refillable feeders with natural plants.

“I wish that people will plant more native plants and stop feeding them. I know it’s very hard, it was very hard for me, but you just have to do it. Take the bird feeders down and just hope for the best that [the outbreak] is going to go away and they’re gonna survive, you know it’s just sad,” he said.

Slowing the spread of this disease is just one environmental problem that humans can help reduce the impact it has on local wildlife. Climate change and protecting natural spaces is

important to help keep local wildlife healthy. The director for the Naturalist Program at Sonoma State University, Suzanne DeCoursey, explained that many pathogens found in animals and plants are exacerbated by problems like climate change and the loss of natural habitats due to human activities.

“We often think of climate change as mainly affecting things like temperature and sea level, but it can also affect disease impact and range, among both human and non-human species,” she said.

Similarly, Susan Stanton, a citizen in Oakland and avid bird watcher, explained that the “loss of habitat and climate change” affects all wildlife, and is another environmental issue that affects birds and nature in general.

If dead or sick birds are seen or found in the area, individuals are encouraged to report those to wildlife centers in their area. Do not touch or handle any dead or sick birds as the infection can be transmittable to humans. If it is necessary, though, wear protective gloves and thoroughly wash hands afterwards.

Sick birds will generally appear weak and “lethargic, puffed or fluffed up, with partially closed or ‘sunken’ eyes. On the rare occasions, eyes may alternately appear swollen, red, or irritated,” Miller said.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has a full list of centers on their website https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Laboratories/Wildlife-Investigations/Rehab/Facilities, listed by county.

For Sonoma County residents, The Bird Rescue Center should be contacted at (707)523-2473 as soon as a sick or dead bird is found.

Trump impeachment trial concludes continued from pg. 1

tered the building.

The impeachment trial showed never before seen footage of Pence being ushered to safety, barely missing a mob of people chanting “Hang Mike Pence”. The House prosecution managers also played body camera footage from Capitol police officers being overtaken by fists from rioters, video of the crowd damaging and stealing government property and footage of the close calls representatives and their staff had with people breaching both chambers of Congress.

Mitt Romney (R-Utah), one of the senators seen in the videos racing back to the Senate for safety said, “It tears at your heart and brings tears to your eyes...That was overwhelmingly distressing and emotional.”

The evidence presented by the prosecution also showed tweets by Trump, including one that he wrote just 6 hours after the attack on the Capitol that read, “These are the things and events that happen when a sacred landslide election is so unceremoniously and viciously stripped away from great patriots who have been badly and unfairly treated for so long. Go home with love & in peace. Remember this day forever!”.

The prosecution argued that the tweet, as well as hundreds more from after the time Trump lost the Nov. 2020 election, incited or perpetuated lies and posed a threat to democracy.

One of Trump’s biggest supporters in the Senate, Lindsay Graham (R-South Carolina), released a statement after the final verdict condemning the entirety of the impeachment process.

He said, “For the good of the country I hope this will be the last Senate impeachment where a President is impeached without a lawyer, without witnesses, and a trial record is built on hearsay upon hearsay. I fear that if this model is followed in the future – impeachment to disqualify one from holding office based on partisan hatred – will become the norm.”

In an article by the New York Times titled, “House Managers Rest Their Case Against Trump, but Most Republicans Are Not Swayed,” during the trial, impeachment managers conveyed concern at the possibility of Trump holding public office again.

Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland, one of the impeachment managers, questioned the Senate on whether they believed Trump would stop inciting violence if allowed back into office.

He said, “Would you bet the lives of more police officers on that? Would you bet the safety of your family on that? Would you bet the future of your democracy on that?”

To many, the outcome of Trump’s second impeachment does not come as a surprise, given the outcome of his first impeachment.

Prior to the conclusion of the trial, Cynthia Boaz, a political science professor at Sonoma State said, “I predict that President Trump will not be convicted, that only a few Republicans will ultimately vote for conviction, somewhere between four and eight probably. Which is extremely unfortunate, because it’s a demonstration that partisan loyalty sometimes outweighs fidelity to the rule of law in this country.”

Boaz also believes that Trump’s acquittal will negatively impact the image of the United States.

She said, “Globally, I think failure to convict will hurt us, because it makes us look hypocritical in the eyes of the global system. We are ready to tell other countries what they can and cannot do, but we are not willing to hold our own leaders accountable.

I think the failure to convict will do damage to the entire democratic experiment in the United States, and may set a precedent for it to happen again.”

Trump has publicly defended himself calling his impeachment, “Yet another phase of the greatest witch hunt in the history of our country”.

There is a strong possibility in the future that Trump has support to run for office again or at the very least influence the future of the Republican party.

In a poll by CNBC they found that 74% of Republicans want the former president to remain active in the party in some way and almost 50% want him to remain the de facto head of the party. Although the 2024 election may be almost 4 years away, the not guilty impeachment verdict means this may be far from the last time Trump influences American politics.

COURTESY// Instagram Gov. Gavin Newsom (left) and Vice President Kamala Harris (right) wearing masks while viewing the destruction from fires in the greater Sonoma County area.

Recall campaign ignites against Newsom and Ravitch continued from pg. 1 released when people talk, cough, or sneeze,” gathered over 20,000 signatures so far. Accordthe official CDC website warns. Therefore, ing to Ballotpedia, in order to get a local recall when people gather in groups of any size, they on the ballot you need to obtain 30,000 signarisk spreading infectious particles to each other tures in 160 days. simply by speaking.

The recall campaign was launched in late While groups like the “Recall Governor October by local real estate developer Bill GalNewsom” campaign are vocal about their dis- laher and his daughter, meaning the campaign approval of Newsom, others feel that the cam- has until early March to secure signatures.

On the official recall petition, the Gallapaign may be a result of broader political divisions between Democrats and Republicans. hers wrote that, “Pressing issues of inequality, “There are many different ways that peo- injustice and fire safety failures have been igple respond and cope with [pandemic-related nored or inflamed by Ravitch” and “Ravitch has changes] and one of those ways is the expres- unethically and repeatedly abused her powers sion of anger and the need to direct the blame to pursue personal vendettas.”

The Gallahers reference in the petition a somewhere,” said Elizabeth Escalante, president of the Wine Country Young Democrats. settlement that Ravitch and the California At“Governor Newsom would be their target as torney General’s office pursued that resulted in that head decision maker of how the state will the Gallaher’s Windsor based ‘Oakmont Senior handle the pandemic.”

Living’ company paying $500,000 for the abanEscalante believes that, while Newsom has donment of elderly residents at two of their semade mistakes during his term, such as, “[go- nior living facilities during the 2017 Tubbs fire.

The anonymous man collecting signatures ing] against [his] own orders of sheltering in place [at French Laundry],” he is “doing what at Target corroborated the official message of he can within his limits.” However, Escalante the campaign. He said, “We felt there could added that not all of her coworkers agree with have been more done on her part [to hold corpoher. rations accountable] but instead she waited for “As a public school teacher, I have col- people to personally sue PG&E after the Tubbs leagues who have expressed their dissatis- fire. She has been possibly silenced and bought faction with Newsom’s push to reopen pub- off- it isn’t impossible to think of a politician in lic schools without much forethought of how power for so long not doing her part.”

As for the “Recall Governor Newsom” teacher’s unions would respond and the overall safety of reopening schools for all school staff campaign, California will have to wait and see what the petitioners will do with the 1.5 miland students,” she said.

Newsom is not the only target for citizens’ lion signatures their petition has amassed, all of frustration. Outside of the Coddingtown Tar- which are still pending verification. Upon sucget in Santa Rosa a young man was collecting cessful verification, the recall election could signatures for both the “Recall Governor New- take place in the coming summer, according to som” campaign and a local signature campaign 10 News San Diego.

“In the meantime,” Escalante said, “we to recall Sonoma County District Attorney Jill Ravitch. With the total number of signatures for have to work together to keep each other safe. recalling Gov. Newsom now surpassing the 1.5 It’s as simple as wearing your mask, avoiding million needed to get on the ballot, the man was large gatherings, limiting contact with more infocusing his efforts on collecting signatures dividuals, etc. I believe that if we start heading from shoppers for the Ravitch ballot campaign. toward that direction, the closer we are to endThe man, who chose to remain anonymous ing this pandemic and resolving the issues that because he did not want his employer finding have come from it.” out he spoke to the media, said that they had

News 5

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

STAR// Andrew Savedra Retrograde Coffee Roasters (pictured above) Co-Founder Danielle Connor said Sonoma County Restaurant week, “was created to drive more traffic to restaurants and help people discover new places during a time of year that’s seasonally very slow.”

Restaurant week continues almost a year into the pandemic continued from pg. 1

discover new places during a time of year that’s seasonally very slow.”

With the recent lifting of California’s stay-at-home order, Aleena Decker, Sonoma County Economic Development Board’s (SCEDB) conference and communications coordinator said she, “expects our local community to support their local restaurants safely.”

Decker, along with other SCEDB representatives, “encourage people to help keep restaurant staff and other customers safe by wearing a face covering when required and following public health orders if they are to visit these restaurants.”

For those not willing or able to safely visit these restaurants during Sonoma County Restaurant Week, Sonoma County Tourism is encouraging individuals to support these local restaurants by buying a gift card.

In Sonoma County, restaurants have been hit the hardest of businesses by the COVID-19 pandemic. Pre-pandemic, the top consumers of many restaurants’ were those of the senior community and those who were in Sonoma County as students.

“Since the pandemic happened, we have not been seeing a lot of our usual senior and student customers in the shop as much. I think that has been the hardest part of this chapter for all of us on the Retrograde team”, Connor said.

Sonoma County restaurants have had to completely change the way they do business in order to accommodate the conditions of the pandemic.

“Many restaurants have used the pandemic as an opportunity to expand their services, including adding online ordering options, expanding take out options, offering delivery, and creating online gift cards”, Decker said.

Kailey Priest, Kivelstadt Cellars’ marketing manager, said, “... with a lot of hard work and incredible local support, we managed to survive without letting go of any of our staff and open our doors for dine-in on June 5th, 2020. From then, it truly has been a roller-

coaster. From opening and then closing again, to the devastating fires that raged through the place we all call home, 2020 did not hold back.”

According to Sonoma County Tourism’s Director of Global Media Relations, Birgitt Vaughan, “In 2020, Sonoma County Restaurant Week generated $6.37 million in restaurant revenue and local taxes for Sonoma County, with more than 13% of diners coming from outside of Sonoma County.”

Many local restaurants hope this year’s annual Sonoma County Restaurant Week is a time in which they can expand their businesses and make up for lost revenue. “We are very hopeful that Sonoma County Restaurant Week will drive more traffic to our restaurant”, Kivelstadt Cellars’ Kailey Priest said.

Scowley’s Burgers is a new restaurant in Sonoma County that opened in October.

Robert Gaustad, Scowley’s Burgers’ owner, said. “It has been a very difficult few months . Opening during a pandemic was not ideal because we did not have a loyal customer base that we could depend on through these times.”

However, Gaustad is optimistic that Sonoma County Restaurant Week will “... Help my business by bringing more awareness as to who we are, and then we can build from there.”

The Sonoma County Restaurant Week said they, “anticipate that our local community will take advantage of the many safe options available to support their local restaurants, such as take out, delivery, gift cards for later use, and outdoor dining” which will help local restaurants to make up for the revenue they may have lost during the pandemic.

If you have the opportunity, be sure to check out the restaurants participating in Sonoma County Restaurant Week and support local restaurants by safely utilizing their outdoor dining, getting take out, or getting gift cards.

COURTESY// Instagram This graphic, from @Hateisavirus on Instagram, illustrates some of the hateful rhetoric Asian-Americans have heard since the start of the pandemic.

Violent crime against Bay Area Asian communities on the rise

KAITLIN BREEN

STAFF WRITER

S

hortly after the arrival of the coronavirus deemed “COVID-19” in the United States, harassment and violence began to skyrocket against Asian and Asian-American communities.

Over the past week, leading up to Lunar New Year- usually a cause for celebration- crime against Asian Americans surged in the Bay Area. Vicha Ratanapakdee, an 84 year old man from Thailand, died as the result of being attacked in San Francisco.

Across the bay from San Francisco, in Oakland, another man was arrested for the assault of three people in Oakland’s Chinatown.

Legislators across the country are reacting to this uptick in crime. California’s Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus described this surge in crime as a “national emergency,” while last month, President Joe Biden directed federal agencies to explore ways of combating racism and xenophobia against Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.

Violence and harassment are not the only place where antiAsian rhetoric and behavior has been prominent.

CNN reported in April 2020 that Chinese businesses, particularly restaurants, were suffering because of this. They

reported that only 40 Chinese restaurants in San Francisco’s Chinatown remain in operation, out of 150 in operation prior to COVID-19.

This may be due to a combination of antiasian rhetoric and casualties in the hospitality industry caused by the ongoing pandemic. In an assessment by the San Francisco Travel Association they shared that the hospitality and tourism industries were the hardest hit by the pandemic, citing a 67.4 percent decrease in money spent by tourists in the city. They estimate that recovery to pre-pandemic spending will take until at least 2025.

During the beginning of the pandemic, The Washington Post interviewed experts at institutions such as UCLA and UC Berkeley, who said that former President Donald Trump calling COVID-19 the ‘Chinese Virus,’or ‘Kung Flu’ possibly, “made it okay to have anti-Asian bias.”

Sonoma State University’s President, Judy Sakaki, is the first Japanese-American woman to become the president of a four-year college or university in the United States.

When asked about this recent surge of prejudice against the Asian-American community, she said, “My heart, like many of those in our Seawolf family, weighs heavy with sadness. As a Japanese-American woman whose parents and grandparents were incarcerated because of their race, I know intimately how racism and hate can deform communities.”

Bay Area law enforcement is actively taking steps to combat crime against Asian-Americans. The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office has created a special response unit which will handle crimes that fall into this category.

The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office says the members of this response team were chosen from several units, “...because the crimes cross over between elder abuse, sexual assault, and other units.”

The office said that the special response team, under the direction of Special Assistant Rebecca Tse, who is from the Oakland Asian community, “will coordinate victims services and victims contact with law enforcement...members of the team speak Cantonese and Mandarin, and will be able to build trust and engagement with the victims.”

Sophia Tsue, a student at Sonoma State University, hopes that these events will spark much-needed activism for the Asian-American community.

She said, “It’s not like this just started happening... but maybe this can bring on a new sense of solidarity we were missing from our BLM movement that was rekindled this summer. Maybe we can use the trendiness of social justice to our advantage and use it as a way to instigate unity and real change.”

In response to recent events in the Bay Area, Sonoma State made a statement saying, “It is an ongoing effort to address antiracism and xenophobia and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is working collaboratively across departments to provide programs and initiatives that help engage our students, staff, and faculty in dialogue about racism.”

6 Arts

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

Faculty Spolight of the Week:

VINCENT SPENCE

S

STAFF WRITER

Scott Horstein

cott Horstein has been a professor at Sonoma

Horstein looks to find unfinished work and put his

State University for over 12 years as the Di-

own spin on it. Horstein had the opportunity to work

rector of Theater Studies Program, and many

on The Great Khan, as a feedback writer via zoom for

more things such as THAR 160 Learning Commu-

a test audience.

nity: Theatre, Dance, the Artistic Process, and You,

“This type of work gives me a real risk and

and SSU Arts Dramaturg leading the creation of the

excitement Great Khan is a weird weird and wonderful

campus Arts Integration Program (AIP). Because of

combination of elements – it’s a comedy, it’s also an

the coronavirus pandemic, Horstein has had to make

unf linching look at what it means to grow up as a

adjustments to his profession. Instead of work on live

Black teenager in this country, and it also actually has

plays and performances, he is now developing plays

Genghis Khan as character. I often choose to work on

online.

and teach plays that are by, for, or about communities

Professor Horstein described his new way of working on plays as, “the only thing that is available

that have been traditionally underrepresented by ‘mainstream’ American theater,” said Horstein.

right now in our profession. Some really cool theater

Horstein is a great example of how a professor

artists were experimenting with different forms of

should be, a strong role model for his students. As

online theater for several years now, but now the

a little kid he always had a fascination into acting,

whole profession is exploring the form together.”

starting in a puppet show in kindergarten and even

Horstein enjoys the challenge of the different

playing Norman Noun in a 3rd grade part of speech

ways in teaching. In November, he worked on a play

play. Horstein kept acting in school through college

called “IF I SHOULD WAKE” in Los Angeles.The

and even received internships for it before landing in

entire crew and him worked on a zoom call all over

other positions in the profession like the production

the country, including Portland, Louisville, LA, etc.

side.

COURTESY // Cal State CSU Scott Horstein, a theater studies professor at SSU, has taken the challenge of developing plays online.

Horstein found the biggest difficulty during the entire

As a professor on campus, Horstein’s goal is to

process was just agreeing on whether it should be a

help mold and guide young people in the profession

because I knew they were things I would love to do

play or film. The team agreed it should be a hybrid of

and help propel them along. He described his

every day, and I never wanted to go to work and not

both allowing ease to both the actors and crew.

learnings as, “I would say that it’s important to do

feel it was what I loved.” Scott Horstein is living

Creators and inventors are always looking

what you love and let yourself be pulled along by

by his words and has been given some tremendous

forward to the next creation of theirs. Professor

that aspiration. I got into theater and into teaching

opportunities along the way.

Honoring Black History Month with ‘Celebrating Family’ in Petaluma KC HOLTEMANN STAFF WRITER

A

s February continues, so does the festivities of Black History Month in Sonoma County.

Folks in Petaluma have been accustomed

to celebrating the annual month long observance by interacting and participating in elaborate exhibits and events all over town. But, in the midst of a pandemic causing the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum to still be closed, Petaluma Blacks for Community Development, the organization putting on these events has been forced to think outside the box. The outcome of this has turned a square mile part of Petaluma Downtown into a part time gallery of art and appreciation.

Various posters describing the value and importance of family are currently hung up on windows of certain local businesses across downtown and will remain until Mar. 15 The event is dubbed “Celebrating Family,” which gets its name from asking over 70 Petaluma families, what the word family means to them. The artist behind the project, Paige Green created the poster by taking a monochromatic photo of the entire family, then inserting a quote of what they said family means to them under the photo. The project really focuses on the diversity and special connection each family has with each other as well as emphasizing the fact that families come in all shapes, sizes and colors. The excitement of

STAR // Willy Lepori The ‘Celebrating Family’ exhibit can be found throughout storefronts in downtown Petaluma.

the event can be felt all over the county. SSU Senior

me. Seeing local volunteers and groups team up to put

focus on perspectives for exploring the black family in

Sam Housner explains that the art gallery is “Something

on an awesome experience for BHM is amazing.”

past and present America. The electronic experience

I would definitely check out, I’m interested in seeing all the different photos and quotes.”

Throughout the entire project, a common thread can be seen with a majority of families. The words

will contain plenty of music, art, stories and of course dancing to talk about.

The event is a testament to the tight knit community

“love,” “belonging” and “comfort” are just some of the

To help navigate and enhance the experience, maps

of Petaluma as it took a collaborative effort of many

expressions that can be seen on many posters. Local

of the exhibit will be available to the public at

people including various local organizations, business

Petaluma business owner Cristian Bermudez states

Copperfield’s Books and the visitor center located near

owners and the backbone support of the city of

that “My family means the world to me. They are the

the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit station (SMART)

Petaluma and the Petaluma Art Center to establish this

brightest light of joy in my day. I would do anything for

and Petaluma Art Center.

event. The posters bring a sense of joy and togetherness

them. The love for them is unconditional.”

For any more questions on this celebration of

to downtown that look to honor and celebrate BHM.

To add on to the “Celebrating Family” event

family and more Black History Month related events,

With many hurdles to jump through, the community

Petaluma Blacks for Community Development (PBCD)

please visit the Petaluma Historical Library and Museum

persevered through and put on a unique and powerful

is also having a virtual event to honor and celebrate

website and click the events tab for more information

experience for locals to enjoy. For SSU Senior Tony

Black History Month. It will be held via zoom on Feb.

regarding the topic and other events happening during

Baldini seeing this type of comradery, “Brings joy to

27 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This year’s event will

Black History Month.

Entertainment 7

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

‘Spring Awakening’ opens tomorrow L SONDRA OTTENSTEIN

STAFF WRITER

ast year when the pandemic hit, the world seemed to come to a screeching halt, at least it felt that way for the entertainment industry.

Movie theaters, art galleries, theaters and every other form of entertainment and mental stimulation seemed to disappear. The hopes of getting dressed up and going to a movie, art gallery, play or musical dissipated and everyone came to terms with being inside, at home, with streaming sites like Netflix.

The Sonoma State Music department is changing that and is set to put on a musical, virtually of course.

‘Spring Awakening’ will run from Feb. 17 to Feb. 21, students and faculty will be able to get dressed up in their favorite comfy clothes and enjoy a musical live from the comfort of their living rooms. Tickets are free to all students and faculty but spots must be reserved for the performance day and time desired online at the SSU website.

‘Spring Awakening’ is a coming of age rock musical set in late nineteenth century Germany that explores teenage sexuality and rebellion. With the use of rock music, a more modern genre than that of the late 1800’s, the musical highlights the struggles teenagers have learning about the world around them and the rebellious phases they go through as they navigate their budding sexualities and self-discovery.

“Although this show was created during a different era, the issues it discusses are still relevant today.

I think this makes it important for artists like us to be learning, promoting, and showcasing those issues through art,” stated Linda Peng, Sonoma State student and cast member.

‘Spring Awakening’ originally debuted on Broadway in 2006, winning eight Tony Awards the following year. It was adapted as a play by playwright Frank Wede in 1891 and later reimagined into a musical

by Dan Sheik and Steve Sater. Alexandria Ortiz, a Sonoma State Senior and lead female in the production says that the music is reminiscent of “David Bowie era rock ballads.”

“I hope that in watching this show everyone will remember what it’s like to be young, curious, and just alive again,” stated Ortiz The show is directed by Dr. Lynne Morrow, Sonoma State Vocal and Opera/Musical Theater Director, along with the accompaniment of Theo Bridant the Technical Director who worked meticulously to bring this production online and Yvonne Wormer the collaborative pianist who, “learned how to record the accompaniments and provided us with music so we could work together,” Dr. Morrow said.

While most cast members are Sonoma State

students in the Music department, it is collaborative across other departments, “We also have theatre students who audition for the shows and others, especially Technical Theatre majors, who work on the shows. Costume students, Scenic design students, Lighting design students,” Dr. Morrow stated.

This is the first large scale musical that the Music Department has put on since the campus closed a majority of in-person classes. Last year’s production of ‘Candide’ premiered right under the wire before everything was moved to an online setting.

With learning being remote students are spread all across the state and country, along with current Covid restrictions, the performances will be live with students performing from their homes. Dr. Morrow stated, “all of the scenes of the show will be Live on Zoom and the solo songs will also be Live.” The students will be performing in front of green screens to create a vibrant world for the audience to be immersed in.

Because some songs are done as an ensemble it is difficult for those parts to be done exclusively Live, Dr. Morrow noted, “the ensembles, where the cast of 13 sings “together” is what has been edited. The performance of the ensembles will be Live, along with the recordings.”

COURTESY // Sonoma State ‘Spring Awakening’ will have their opening performance on Zoom, Feb. 17 and will continue performances into the weekend.

Music Department celebrates recipients with Spring Scholarship Showcase EMILY ALVARADO STAFF WRITER

T

he Music Department at Sonoma State University offers scholarships for music majors to pursue their passions. Every year to thank scholarship donors and other supporters, the Music Department puts on a Scholarship Showcase where scholarship recipients perform pieces of their choosing. However this year, things will look a little different due to the ongoing pandemic.

The Scholarship Showcase for the 2020-2021 school year will take place on March 5 at 2 p.m. via Zoom Webinar.

The event is free to all.

The students featured at this year’s showcase are Alfie Halpern, Matthew Bowker and Isabella Grimes. Halpern is a soprano singer and will be performing, ‘The Sky Above The Roof’ by Ralph Vaughan Williams with pre-recorded accompaniment. Bowker is a saxophonist and will be playing two movements from the Concertino Da Camera by Jacques Ibert, using a pre-recorded piano track.

Grimes is a flutist and will be playing the first movement of the Sonata for Flute and Piano by Francis Poulene with recorded accompaniment by Marilyn Thompson.

Grimes, is one of the scholarship recipients and when asked how this scholarship will help her, she said, “It’ll lessen the financial burden on my family, and continue to let me study what I love in an environment with amazing teachers.”

The SSU Music Department has been accredited by the National

Association of Schools of Music since 1972 and offers a variety of degree programs. Music majors can pursue Bachelor of Music degrees in Performance, Music Education, Jazz Studies and Composition, a minor in Music and a Certificate Program in Audio and Recording Production.

Students of the Music Department are in for a treat with “high-quality performance experiences” and “applied practical training” according to the Music Department website. Music majors can be prepared for careers as performers, K-12 music teachers, studio teachers and composers. The curriculum for music majors covers a variety of important skills like keyboard facility, theoretical understanding, aural perception and analysis of musical literature.

According to their website, the Music Department at SSU is, “housed at the Green Music Center- ranked No. 3 on College Degree Search’s 25 Most Amazing Campus Arts Centers.” Grimes, flutist, spoke on her first impression of the facility stating, “…the Green Music Center is gorgeous; that was my first thought upon arriving there.”

As far as what every week would look like for a music student, classes are small and create an environment of creativity. Each week, students have private lessons by faculty employed with the San Francisco Symphony, Ballet and Opera orchestras and the Santa Rosa Symphony. Professional guest artists

visit often to give lectures and students attend weekly repertoire classes to broaden their performance skills. The Music Department offers a variety of performing ensembles including instrumental, choral, jazz, chamber, opera and musical theatre.

For those interested in the SSU Music Program, all students must audition to be admitted. Grimes spoke on her audition experience, “Everyone I met before and after my audition was so kind and welcoming, which helped me feel at ease.” This year, in light of the pandemic, auditions will be submitted by video for admissions for the Fall 2021 semester.

To learn more, schedule a virtual

visit where you can tour the facilities, observe classes, sit in on rehearsals, meet with department faculty and take a trial private lesson. Grimes said, “I got to have a trial lesson with my current flute teacher, Kathleen Reynolds… and that solidified my decision to attend SSU.” Music Department Chair John Palmer spoke on what he looks for in scholarship applicants, “Good musicians take risks and learn from their errors. We want to hear players and singers who push themselves to be better.” Information on the Music Department, scholarships and the Scholarship Showcase event can be found on the SSU Music Department website.

COURTESY // Sonoma State Music Department The scholarship showcase is noramlly presented live and in-person, however, this year it will be held via Zoom, due to the pandemic.

8 Student Life

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

Career Center holds Alumni Takeovers

CASEY FABBRI

STAFF WRITER

I

n the past year, our college life has gone almost entirely virtual, making it much harder for students to stay in touch with campus resources. To counteract this disconnect, Sonoma State’s departments are having to be creative with the tools that they are giving students to create interaction and engagement.

The Sonoma State Career Center is one of many agencies on campus that are utilizing online platforms such as Zoom and Canvas Toolkit.

The Career Center helps students with career exploration, resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, graduate school exploration, and finding jobs after their time at SSU. One way that the Career Center is exploring online options is through Alumni Instagram Takeovers. This is a way for Sonoma State graduates to show off their post-grad careers. Alumni are sharing about their career pathways, challenges that they have overcome in the workforce and other important advice.

Sonoma State senior, Bella McGreevy, currently works on-campus for Seawolf Living and is the interviewer for the Q&A live portion of the takeover. McGreevy stated, “I personally benefit from the alumni takeovers because being able to be the one who asks the questions for the Q&A’s allows me to build a more personal connection with the alumni so they know my name and can possibly meet with them again after the takeover.”

On Thursday Feb. 11, Katie McDonagh, SSU Class of 2014 alumni, took the virtual stage of the Career Center’s Instagram story. McDonagh shared informative advice about the job search after college, fond memories of her time at Sonoma State and took followers through her day-to-day life.

After working as a marketing consulting company in New York, McDonagh now resides in San Francisco and works as a Marketing Manager for Facebook.

“I think it’s a really cool intersection of creativity and problem solving,” McDonagh said in an Instagram live interview. “You have to be able to take learnings and come up with strategies and solutions based on those learnings.”

During the takeover, McDonagh took us through her daily routine, working from home.

She also heavily discussed her time as a Seawolf and her involvement at SSU. “Extracurriculars really give you a chance to go beyond what you learn in the classroom,” she said.

“I always talk about the STAR as being my most important experience.” During her senior year, McDonagh was the editor-in-chief of the STAR, which taught her lessons that she uses in her current profession. A few noteworthy skills that she mentioned were the ability to distill complex information, working with different people and vendors, and meeting strict deadlines.

As a Communications major and Business minor, McDonagh was a busy student as she had her hand in several different projects. She interned with the School of Business and Economics, which gave networking connections that impacted her post-grad job search.

When asked about how her college experiences broadened her networking, McDonagh said, “The biggest success I got from networking was through my internship.” She went on to explain how professors involved in the internship led her to meet future employers. McDonagh still stays in touch with those who impacted her time at Sonoma State. “In general, I’m still connected to a lot of alumni on LinkedIn, but also just keeping in touch with some professors that I got along really well with.”

McDonagh packed the Instagram Live full of lessons and guidance for SSU students to watch. A lasting piece of advice from McDonagh is, “Set yourself up for success and do what you

can to immerse yourself in learning. Talk to a lot of people. Do your own research on what is happening.”

The Career Center’s efforts to broadcast alumni’s advice to current students gives hope during an unsteady college life during the pandemic. “These alumni have had a lot of experience in many fields of work and give great insight about what it is like finding a job after graduation,” Bella McGreevy says. “ It’s great to hear their advice and learn about different careers.”

The Career Center is planning more takeovers in the future to showcase alumni’s lives in various occupations and fields. To learn more about alumni takeovers, visit http://career.sonoma.edu.

STAR // Rachel Gonzalez The Career Center is holding Alumni Takeovers on Instagram Live every Thursday.

Queer Lecture Series speaks about SF-based sex worker clinic COURTESY // Sonoma State The Souls of Mischief screen their documentary, “93 ‘til Infinity”.

Souls of Mischief screen powerful documentary

SAMANTHA PEZZOLA

STAFF WRITER

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ave you ever wondered how rap roots from certain regions have evolved into what’s known as ‘modern-day’ rap? Multi-dimensional artist and director Shomari Smith went in-depth about these roots in the screening of his documentary “93 Til Infinity: The Souls of Mischief”.

What brought upon the ideas of this documentary, what rap means to the Black community, and the editing process of the documentary itself were a few of the topics covered in this Q&A. Smith explained his thought process behind producing this documentary and went deeper into what he believes is missing in music groups and artists in modern-day rap. He also provided impactful statements connected to the black community on the creativity of 90’s rap beats and lyrics evolution to the present day.

This documentary centers around the Group Souls Of Mischief and their hit album, 93 Till Infinity. Aiming to represent Oakland as the true ‘melting pot of diversity’ that it is, this documentary displays Bay Area rap in a positive light. Smith also notes that rap “reflects a lot of different sounds, and the Souls of Mischief are known as an elite sector of that Bay Area sound.” Aiming to represent Oakland as the true ‘melting pot of diversity’ that it is, this documentary displays Bay Area rap in a positive light. Smith also notes that rap “reflects a lot of different sounds, and the Souls of Mischief are known as an elite sector of that Bay Area sound.”

Growing up in communities filled with gun violence, this group reflects on going through a time experiencing violence in their communities every day. Ingrained in this group’s daily lives, their songs were a reflection of getting through violent days in their own communities and growing up together in Oakland. As an established rap group, the Souls are well aware that music doesn’t always reach out to all audiences. Shomari Smith responds to in-

quiries during the Q&A, comparing modern rap to how it was received in the ‘90s, stating that “it’s all about what we decide to expect. We need all of these images to be well-rounded, so we can have a space for more types of different approaches to the music.” He continues to explain that most artists tend to take mimics and mirror a style of music that fans can gravitate to. Ultimately, he concludes by stating that there are more ideas to be explored outside of mainstream hits. Patrick Johnson, co-host of the Q&A, notes that “sometimes people have to make the decision of wanting mass appeal or wanting an audience,” and this is the main question that will be left with the audience after this film showing.

With the documentary originally being released in 2013, it aims to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Souls’ debut album, walking listeners through each one of their songs and the nostalgia that they bring. Following the documentary, the main takeaways involve not letting a record label change their image, as well as keeping the ‘purest form of rap’ intact for listeners. Smith also goes on to explain how the Souls pioneered their own record label, all while preserving their own musical style, stating that “it’s a huge thing that these 18-year-old young men, demanded by a publisher, will not retain Jives record label publishing their music...It’s incredible what the Souls of Mischief were able to accomplish under this record label, especially as they were the only group to come out of Jives.”

Smith makes clear the benefits reaped from maintaining Souls Of Mischief record rights as they were able to claim their own music. Their music rights are now used to their own liking and they can control where the music has an output to audiences across the world. Their music is still upheld in a positive light for its unique blend of hip hop beats and lyrics and is ultimately enjoyed and celebrated to this day.

MORGAN MITCHELL STAFF WRITER

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n a society when sex work is often misunderstood and misjudged, a San Francisco based infirmary is on a mission to change the societal stigma while making sex workers more comfortable with their lives.

During the WGS 302 Queer Lecture Series, they held an information session over zoom to share their mission; “Saint James Infirmary is an occupational health and safety clinic for sex workers. We focus on holistic approach to health care for sex workers, of all genders, and we have an emphasis on social justice as well.”

Priscilla Alexander, author of “Sex Work and Health”, defines these men and women as people who engage in the , “provision of sexual services or performances by one person (sex worker) for which a second person (client to observer) provides money or other markers of economic value.”

Sex work is an umbrella term that includes; street work, escorts, strippers, dominatrix’s, cam girls, phone sex, pornos, sugar babies, and more.

Anita “Durt” O’Shea, a former sex worker who works for the infirmary, addresses the huge societal stigma surrounding sex work. That stigma manifests in multiple ways; violence, rape, murder, mental health issues, family estrangement, police harassment and many more issues.

“At St. James Infirmary we’re really trying to address the stigma that happens with sex work… this is where most of the danger of being a sex worker comes from.”

A few types of sex work are legal in the Bay Area, American poet Maya Angelou, who is also known as a former sex worker, participated in stripping/pole dancing, adult films, BDSM and escorting with no penetrative contact.While it is legal, sex workers live with this stigma that makes getting accessible healthcare difficult.

Decriminalizing sex work is an uphill battle, one of which will stop the societal stigma that sex workers face daily. “Sex work is not trafficking. Whole trafficking is a violation of consent that needs to stop, sex workers need to be supported to have the work and the lives that they do consent to, with the most dignified and healthy options given their conditions.” Sex work is consensual and voluntary, while trafficking involves force, abduction, and exploitation.

The 2015 U.S. Department of State Trafficking in Persons Report states that, “When an adult engages in a commercial sex act, such as prostitution, as the result of force, threats of force, fraud, coercion or any combination of such means, that person is a victim of trafficking.” Many anti-trafficking organizations will combine sex workers with trafficking survivors even when there are no markers that they are connected, since a lot of sex workers are doing it consentually.

Brooke Lober, the Harm Reduction Director at St. James, shared more about the healthcare services that they offer. “St. James’ approach is a collective care approach that focuses on “non-judgmental peer-based health care” using the “integration of medical and social services.” Three times a week they bring a van called the “naughty nurse mobile” to well known areas for sex workers so they can distribute safer supplies. They also have the walk-in clinic that is open a couple days a week offering their services. Their clinic services, which range from STI testing to peer to counseling to trans healthcare, to a clothing closet and everything in between.

If you would like to assist St. James with helping sex workers, you can make a one-time donation, or become a monthly sustainer. You can always donate clothing, buy their merchandise, or volunteer remotely during the pandemic. For more information about how they help sex workers, you can visit stjamesinfirmary.org.

Student Life 9

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

CSU Student Research Competition goes fully virtual for the first time BRYCE GALLAGHER

STAFF WRITER

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very year, the Cal State University system looks to showcase the work of the best and brightest California has to offer. They’ve been doing so for the past 35 years by putting students from each school in a ‘battle of the brains’, with the CSU Student Research Competition. However, before Sonoma State can send any students to compete, they must narrow down the teams that will be participating.

“What we’re doing is holding an internal competition to determine the 10 projects that will represent SSU at the event.” said Student Research Analyst, Stacey Pelton In a typical year, all 23 CSU schools would send 10 teams of researchers to a host university, aiming to present their research on various topics. These research topics range from Engineering and Computer Science to Creative Arts and Design. However, similarly to last year’s event, this year’s competition will be held entirely online due to the nationwide shutdown.

“Typically, we travel to whatever campus is hosting. My office pays for all of the travel, hotel, meals, and we all just have a great time together,” Pelton said.

“It’s a great experience. Again, it’s not quite the same as it was when we were all together in person, but it’s still a great way to showcase the work that you’re doing.”

A global pandemic is sure to cause its fair share of difficulties, but Pelton and the rest of the Office of Research & Sponsored Programs team is confident that this year’s competition will continue to run smoothly.

“Last spring we had to scramble at the last minute to turn it into a virtual competition and it did present some challenges,” said Steve Karp, the co-coordinator and Vice President of Research & Sponsored Programs.

“Last year’s host university, CSU East Bay, did an excellent job of coordinating instructions on how to operate remotely,” Karp added. “This year we think it will be smoother for all of the campus to coordinate virtual presentations.”

By the time the pandemic hit last year, most of the main research had already been completed, so finding new and interesting topics to research this year has become slightly more difficult than in years past.

“Getting research done has been a challenge for students and the faculty assisting them because access to lab space has to be coordinated so we make sure there’s no more than one group in the space at a time,” Karp said. “We’ve gotten good at coordinating, but it slows down the research in general.”

Karp went on to praise SSU students for their flexibility in adapting to this “new normal”.

COURTESY // CalPoly.edu The CSU Student Research Competition is going to be fully virtual this year.

“Often research is done in teams, so trying to get a team together on Zoom to talk about lab work or field work, you have to be a little more creative on how you do that. Sonoma State students are definitely up to the challenge and have risen to that added creativity, so I’m pretty happy about that.”

The Office of Research & Sponsored Programs wants every student interested in applying before the March 5th deadline to review all of the guidelines before entering and to reach out for help if it is needed.

“If anyone has any questions, I would welcome any contact,” Pelton said. “If they’re not sure if what they’re doing meets the requirements, I’d be willing to have a conversation about that for sure.”

Karp had similar advice and encouraged students not to doubt their ability to create.

“I want [students] to please apply. Don’t let lack of confidence; that you’re not good enough, keep you from applying, because I guarantee you are good enough,” Karp added. “Students always amaze me with how good they do in their presentations. I always think back to when I was a student at that age, and I honestly don’t think I could’ve done a better job than the Sonoma State students that I see do this.”

If any students are curious about the competition or have questions regarding applying, they can email Stacey Pelton at pelton@sonoma.edu for more information.

Seawolves SPEAK! “How did you spend your Valentine’s Day?”

QUINN MCKIBBIN STAFF WRITER

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ith Valentine’s Day being one for the history books this year, it’s time for Seawolves to start planning activities to do to celebrate. With California’s shutdowns being up in the air, students are forced to adapt and come up with plan B’s and C’s to spend with their loved ones or friends. With this being our first socially distanced Valentine’s Day, it has truly been a unique one.

While many students are forced to spend their Valentine’s in small groups, maybe being alone with that special someone isn’t all that bad. Seawolves shared their special plans for this year’s ‘distanced’ Valentine’s Day, letting readers know what they did with their loved ones this year!

Valentine’s Day is typically the holiday where people spend the day with

their significant other, giving them your undivided attention and letting them know how much they are valued. Whether it be through acts of kindness or through creative gifts, Valentine’s Day is definitely a holiday where people shouldn’t skimp on their creativity! For those who spent their Valentine’s Day solo, Netflix and Hulu certainly didn’t have a shortage of romantic movies or TV shows to enjoy.

Our Seawolves were happy to be creative this year to express their love to their significant other, spending time with their closest friends, or having some fun alone. There was definitely no shortage of creativity with our Seawolves, and they were set on spreading the love during the pandemic!

“This Valentine’s, I will be spending my time making money at the Bodega Bay Lodge.”

“I spent Valentine’s Day trying to teach my 7-week old puppy that her name is Zoey!”

-Georgie Alvarez, Junior, Communications and Media Studies major

-John Sutherland, Junior, Sociology major

“This year, I was working all day for Valentine’s Day, but after my shift, I went to get Mexican food and margaritas with my boyfriend.”

“This year I spent Valentine’s Day with my two best friends. We went to the beach then to my house for dinner and a movie night.”

-Kristen Monteverde, Senior, Business major

-Ava White,Freshman, Liberal Studies major

“This year, I went to get In-N-Out with my girlfriend and we had a picnic! After that, we watched superhero movies and relaxed.”

-Evan Minturn, Senior, Business major

“This year, I spent Valentine’s with my friends and family. We had our traditional Valentine’s Day dinner: filet mignon and crab!”

-Isabella Barbero, Junior, Business major

10 Health and Wellness

Beginning March 5, students will be able to reserve times to utilize the Campus Recreation Center’s pandemic-safe outdoor exercise area.

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

STAR// Pamela Meyers

Campus Recreation Center to open for limited outdoor activities

MATTHEW SMITH STAFF WRITER

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tarting on March 1, the Sonoma State University Recreation Center will be reopening for socially distanced workouts outside in the Seawolf Plaza.

The Rec Center has been closed to students for the entire academic year up until this point. Set to open Monday March 1, the outdoor space will be open to up to 10 students at a time, with all occupants required to maintain social distancing throughout their workout. The space will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All that students will need in order to use the space is to make a reservation online.

Upon arrival to the workout space, students will have a set of rules that they will have to follow before entry. The Rec Center website states that before entry students must, “Arrive no more than 5 minutes before your start time. Reservations will be voided after 15 minutes of no show, Find designated queueing areas with six-foot distance markers indicating where you should stand to maintain physical distance while waiting in line (please note face coverings are required when inline), [and] Present your Seawolf ID with waiver sticker.”

Once the student has checked in with the Rec Staff, Campus Rec faculty will make sure that the SSU daily wellness screening form has been filled out online, in which case the student will then be allowed in to enter the workout space and begin working out.

It is important to note that not every aspect of the Rec Center will be available for students to use in this new outdoor space. According to the Rec Center’s website, the available equipment will include, “Cycling bikes, rowing machines, dumbbells (not to exceed 20 lbs), medicine balls, bosu balls,

stability balls, and other small equipment.”

Many safety measures will be implemented in order to make sure that the experience is safe for all students that wish to participate. Some of the safety measures include, “Physically distant from the time each student and staff arrive to the time they leave, individual outdoor activities contained within a spaced outdoor 10’x15’ space for 10 students at a time, [and] cleaned equipment before each person arrives to their reservation,” said lead recreation coordinator Ryan Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick went on to say, “...contactless checkins using Engage and verify at arrival, we have a separate entrance/exit for when a restroom is needed to be used by all student participants, and we require facial coverings at all times (and encourage double facial covering for extra protection).”

Students are happy to hear that the rec center is coming back. Many students have had to work out at home with little to no equipment. “I’m pretty excited to use the cardio machines. I like using machines while doing cardio, so it’s nice that the equipment is available,” said Junior Leonardo Villarama.

Aside from allowing students to have a place to workout again, the reopening of the Rec Center has many other benefits as well. “Having a safe space in which students can reunite (physically distant) is paramount to personal and collective wellness,” said Fitzpatrick, “With healthy minds, bodies, and spirits, we can be more empowered to experience success in college, with our families and in our communities.”

To make an appointment for the outdoor space, students can head over to the Rec Center Engage page and fill out the rec center workout. Once the waiver has been signed, students then will be able to sign up for a time.

Health Center Staff Spotlight: Paula Coffaney W SUMIKO FONG

STAFF WRITER

hen thinking about health care positions, nurses and physicians tend to come to mind first. However, there are so many other roles that are more behind the scenes, but are equally as important to helping a healthcare facility succeed.

One of these lesser known roles is the Clinical Laboratory Scientist, and the CLS at the Sonoma State University Student Health Center is Ms. Paula Coffaney.

Coffaney originally worked at a local hospital when she heard of an opening at Sonoma State University. She jumped at the chance for a different role as a clinical laboratory scientist.

At the Student Health Center, Coffany is responsible for running the small clinical laboratory. She performs all of the testing that they are able to do in the lab in addition to quality control requirements to assure the tests are accurately done.

Coffaney also does a regular procedure to check instrument maintenance and calibration.

In the lab, Coffaney also has direct patient care duties.

“I’m the main person a student will come to if they require a blood draw or a specimen collection,” Coffaney said. In addition to helping students, she also helps other staff members.

“I also train and supervise other health center staff in testing that they are qualified to perform,” Coffaney said.

Since the Student Health

Center is licensed by the state and federal government, they need to follow all their regulations and are subject to periodic inspections. Coffaney makes sure that all of the guidelines are being followed in order to pass inspections. “I have been impressed by her continued attention to details that assures that our lab quality standards are met.” Dr. Timothy Kaczmar, Health Center physician, said.

Outside of work, Coffaney enjoys hiking and gardening.

She also spends time trying out new recipes. She has also acquired a new quarantine activity, which is watercolor painting. A fun fact about her is that she owns a hobby vineyard with her family and they love making and bottling their own wine. She also has four children and she considers them to be her biggest accomplishment in life.

Being a mother had a big influence on Coffaney when choosing what career she wanted. In the beginning of her health care journey, she didn’t really know what she wanted to do. She went to college but didn’t have a specific career choice in mind, all she knew was that we wanted to work in the medical field in some way.

However, after having her first child, Coffaney thought that being a clinical laboratory scientist would be the best fit. “I majored in biology and after my first child was born, I decided this would be a great op-

STAR// Pamela Meyers Health Center Clinical Laboratory Scientist Paula Coffaney enjoys teaching students about her job and mentoring medical students.

tion for a mom due to the flexible working hours,” Coffaney said.

At the Student Health Center, Coffaney enjoys meeting and talking with students and briefly learning about them. She finds helping students through blood draws particularly rewarding. “I like to put students at ease who are fearful of blood draws and am rewarded when I am finished when they say,that wasn’t that bad!” Coffaney said.

When it comes to her favorite part about her job, Coffaney said it has got to be mentoring students who are pursuing a medical career. Students who work in the lab to gain experience work closely with Coffaney and she loves when they inform her when they achieve their goals after their time in the lab and at SSU. Coffaney also enjoys collaborating with other staff members, and they love working with her as well. “It is a joy to work with her here at SHC.” Dr Timothy Kaczmar said. “She has a gentle touch with our students and assures the lab functions at its highest level.” Coffaney can always be counted on whenever any one of her co workers are in need of assistance. “My favorite thing about Paula is that she is always happy to help.” Dr. Margot Brown, Health Center physician, said, “I don’t know what we would do without her!”

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

Health and Wellness 11

Sonoma County church plans large retreat despite multiple health order violations

GABRIELLA HERMOGENO STAFF WRITER

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Sonoma County church located in the Santa Rosa area was fined for violating multiple public health orders. Sonoma County’s permit department filed a fourth complaint on Jan. 21 after receiving notice about several hundred people attending weekend services without wearing masks. The weekend services were also being held indoors.

Since Sept. 2020, Spring Hills Church continues to hold indoor services, such as morning prayers, bible studies, and other religious events.

Despite receiving three warnings from the county, hundreds of local residents attend the church’s weekly services throughout the weekends and their upcoming event raises even more concern to county officials.

On Feb. 18, the church plans to host a two-day retreat with 100 to 150 people. Individuals attending this gathering consist of both local residents of Sonoma County and people who come from churches all over Northern California and beyond.

According to the order of the health officer of Sonoma County, “A ‘gathering’ is any event or convening that brings together people in a single room or single space at the same time, such as an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, cafeteria, or any other indoor or outdoor space.”

While the church invites people from all over Northern California and beyond to engage in religious worship at their upcoming retreat, county officials remain concerned for the health of Sonoma County’s communities.

In an interview from The Press Democrat, Paul Gullixson, Sonoma County’s communications manager for the permit department said, “These restrictions are in place for a reason and we have a choice as a community to either follow them or ignore them. When we ignore them, we see what happens: case rates go up, as we are in the middle of a surge.”

The Spring Hill Church’s retreat webpage, includes COVID-19 related facts and questions about

STAR// Rachel Gonzalez Spring Hills Community Church, located near Santa Rosa, has been fined for COVID-19 violations numerous times, but is still planning to host a 100-150 person retreat this month.

the event, which does not enforce wearing or even bringing a mask. Their webpage provides attendees with a list of necessities to bring which states, “Bible, journal, pen, devotional books for personal time with the Lord, toiletry items, casual clothing, comfortable shoes, an expectant heart, and a good attitude!”

Governor Gavin Newsom initiated a statewide mask mandate in California on June 18, 2020 which requires every person to have a mask properly worn at all times when outside of the home. In accordance with Newsom’s mask mandate, the CDC issued an order on Jan. 29 which requires masks to be worn by all travelers to prevent the spread of the virus. The CDC also states, “Wearing masks that completely cover the mouth and nose reduce the spread of COVID-19.”

Sonoma County has been struck by an increase in COVID-19 cases since the beginning of January. There

are a total of 27,133 active cases and 287 deaths. About 30 to 40 cases are added to the total amount of cases per day, according to county data. With the church’s plan to host this upcoming retreat, which brings individuals across California into Sonoma County, the number of COVID-19 cases may increase, making county officials and local residents worried.

Limiting travelling is highly encouraged in California as it contributes to the spread of the disease. A recent update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, “Travel has led—and continues to lead to—interstate and international spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.”

County officials will continue to enforce regulations by tracking Spring Hills Church closely in hopes that they will comply with the health orders to ensure safety in Sonoma County.

Different types of masks offer different protection levels NOAH PHILPOTT

STAFF WRITER

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ince the beginning of the pandemic, masks have become essential ranging from a disposable surgical mask, different cloth masks, and full face shields of all different styles.

The most common ones worn by people today include: cloth, filtered, disposable surgical, cone-style, N95, and many more. The question remains, which type of mask is most effective in protecting the population from COVID-19?

According to Cardinal Health, the three main characteristics that determine a mask’s level of protection are, “Resistance to penetration by synthetic blood or minimum pressure for pass result, differential pressure or breathability, and filtration efficiency.” The American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) tests these characteristics through three different levels. Level one consists of, “Low barrier protection or general use for short procedures and exams that don’t involve aerosols, spray or fluids,” Level two abides to, “moderate barrier protection or levels of aerosols, spray and/ or fluids.” Lastly, level three dwells on maximum barrier protection regarding, “heavy levels of aerosols, spray and/or fluids.” Knowing and understanding the different ASTM levels of protection is the key to staying healthy.

Each type of mask itself has its own pros and cons. For example, a normal disposable surgical mask is loose fitting, but, “They’re meant to protect the wearer from contact with droplets and sprays that may contain germs,” said the Mayo Clinic.

Cloth masks are, “...intended to trap droplets that are released when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes,” states the Mayo Clinic. A N95 mask acts as a respirator and, “offers more

protection than a medical mask does because it filters out both large and small particles when the wearer inhales,” said the Mayo Clinic. Each type of mask also prevents larger particles in the air or bacteria from penetrating through to reach one’s mouth. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) does not recommend face shields alone because what is imprecise on the amount of protection they provide. However, wearing a face shield is better than wearing no facial protection at all.

Wearing the mask correctly isn’t the only safety rule to pay attention to when it comes to face coverings.

Avoiding touching one’s mask is key considering all the things a person may touch in their daily routine.

Washing or sanitizing your hands before and after handling your mask is highly recommended by the CDC as well. As long as your mask is not disposable, it is recommended that one either hand or machine washes it once a week. Lastly, when not putting your mask to use, one should store it where it will not get dirty or exposed to possible bacteria. Some of the most common side effects of wearing different masks can range from fungal acne, runny nose, canker sores, dry throat, and other allergy related defects states the CDC. Sonoma State University Senior Dylan Hellar said, “I like to wear cloth masks compared to other masks, neck gators or shields because they are more comfortable.

Wearing the disposable masks for long periods of time actually gives me acne and hurts my ears.” This is just one of the many differences each mask can provide.

Getting used to wearing a mask around is not ideal, but doing so ensures the safety of everyone involved.

STAR// Pamela Meyers Daisy De Martini (left) and Aliya Chroman (right) enjoy a walk at Twin Creeks Park while wearing disposable surgical masks.

COURTESY// CDC There are many different kinds of face masks to choose from in order to protect oneself and others from COVID-19.

12 Photo

FEB. 16 - FEB. 22, 2021

sonomastatestar.com

Sonoma County celebrates Restaurant Week

STAR // Andrew Savedra Make sure to support local restaurants, like SOMO, during Sonoma County Restaurant Week from Feb. 19-28.

STAR // Andrew Savedra STAR // Andrew Savedra SOMO Village patrons enjoy lunch together, prior to Sonoma County’s Restaurant Week.

(Top) Retrograde Coffee Roasters is looking forward to local support during Sonoma County Restaurant Week (Bottom) Sally Tomatoes is one of the many restaurants participating in Sonoma County Restaurant Week.

Sonoma citizens wear masks to stay safe

STAR // Rachel Gonzalez Brothers Dennis and Chris Arriaga wear their masks as they pick up furniture at Costco in Rohnert Park.

STAR // Andrew Savedra STAR // Pammy Meyers A group of friends take a stroll in La Plaza Park in Cotati with masks on.

Jaun Mendoza tends to the bird baths which have seen no new homes because of the Salmonella outbreak in Sonoma County.