Volume 83 // Issue 4

IN THIS ISSUE

Arts & Entertainment

Body Language Productions: student group on the rise. PAGE 6.

Student Life

Strengthen your Soul at the Spirtuality Fair. Read more on PAGE 9.

Wheel of Fortune

Read about Wheel of Fortune Coming to Graton Casino on PAGE 5.

SINCE 1979

VOLUME 83 // ISSUE 4 SEPTEMBER 17 - SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

@SONOMASTATESTAR

Campus rape reflects alarming nationwide issue CHELSEA PINKHAM STAFF WRITER

O

n Sept. 5, sometime during the window of hours between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m, a rape occurred on Sonoma State University’s campus. The crime occurred near the lake area, somewhere west of the G parking lot.

Five days after the incident, a timely warning was sent out via email to students. Details surrounding the case are not yet available due to an ongoing investigation, but one thing is sure: sexual assault crimes on college campuses across the nation are frightening students and becoming an increasingly relevant discussion.

“It makes me feel uneasy and unsafe,” says a Sonoma State student who wishes to remain anonymous, “like I can’t walk around alone without having some means of protecting myself.” She adds that she loves to walk at night and enjoy the cool air, but that “it’s just not safe to do it alone.” This fear is a familiar feeling to many college students across the United States, and for good reason. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, which is the organization that runs the National Sexual Assault Hotline, states that 11.2% of all graduate and undergraduate students have experienced a sexual assault. Additionally, female college students (ages 18-24) are estimated to be 20% more likely to be sexually assaulted than non-students

in the same age group.

While reported sexual assaults have increased exponentially across the nation in the past few years, it is unclear whether this is a result of crimes actually increasing, or victims simply becoming more likely to come forward and share their experiences due to increased support from their peers. Paul Gullixson, Associate Vice President for Strategic Communications at Sonoma State University, believes this to be the case.

“As studies have shown, part of this increase can be attributed to improved reporting of crime statistics by higher education as well as an increased willingness of victims to report such assaults-thanks to increased focus on informed interviewing techniques of survivors and increased awareness from the #MeToo movement and other campaigns,” says Gullixson. “From that perspective,” he continues, “we are glad that more individuals, particularly women, are coming forward when assaults occur and hope to continue to work on responding to these reports quickly and creating an environment where students feel their safety and privacy are protected.”

Sonoma State has taken a number of measures

in recent years to combat sexual assault crimes.

This includes hiring a confidential advocate, a new police officer and two new investigators, swearing in a Detective Seargent for the University Police Department, deploying police officers to patrol campus via motorcycle and bicycle, and developing an online reporting system. While it is clear that Sonoma State is working to improve campus safety, concerns among students are still present, including the frequently discussed issue of lighting on campus at night, which many students feel is lacking. With every new timely warning revealing a rape on campus, tension and uncertainty seem to build among students.

David Dougherty, Chief of Police on campus, suggests that students demonstrate an awareness of their surroundings at all times, avoid poorly lit areas, not become distracted by cell phone use while walking, and use the “buddy system” after dark, among many other safety precautions. “We all work together in support of campus safety,” Dougherty says.

The University website reminds students to always report suspicious activity to campus police immediately; an action that could make a difference in the outcome of a potential assault.

Sonoma State University’s reported rapes have been steadily increasing, concerning many students.

STAR // Emily Kowalski

University suffers second water disruption in six months TRAVIS GILLMORE

STAFF WRITER

S

onoma State University experienced its second water disruption in six months after a mainline water eruption occurred on Thursday, Sept. 5. The incident led to a drop in water pressure which triggered State Water Resources Control Board protocols that require “boil water” notices to be in effect until two rounds of water testing prove that drinking water is safe.

No illnesses or further complications had been reported and University spokesperson Paul Gullixson said, “there was never a real reason to believe the water was contaminated.” Independent, third-party testing confirmed that the water was clean, and bacterial screening demonstrated the absence of coliforms and e. coli.

Students walking to class on Thursday, Sept. 5 encountered an emergency construction site behind a chain-link fence set up between the Darwin and Salazar buildings. Water spewed out of a large pipe, as crews worked to repair the damage.

According to Gullixson, a mainline failed and erupted due to age. The University understood the extent of the damage by Friday, completed repairs on Saturday and the required water testing results finalized on Monday.

The disruption, that lasted through the weekend, affected Darwin, the Student Center, and the Schultz Library buildings. Water fountains were turned off across campus, soda machines were inoperable, and coffee service was interrupted. The library remained open; however, the bathrooms were closed.

Sip, the University’s coffee shop located in the Student Center, was shut down over the weekend, and Lobo’s had its hours cut. The University reported that food service at other locations in the Student Center continued thanks to tanks of filtered water reserves.

Boil water notices were lifted on Monday, as soon as test results were received, and water fountains were re-opened along with all food service. Gullixson says the University is proactively evaluating areas of concern and managing potential problems to prevent future occurrences.

enrolled times $3,940 for tuition and campus fees

With the campus being situated in an equates to over $34 million in revenue each semester, unincorporated area separate from municipal water not counting housing fees...where is the money supplies, the University is responsible for providing going, and why are we regularly experiencing water and maintaining water infrastructure. According problems on campus?” to the 2016 Water Quality Report, “Sonoma State University owns and operates three active wells located at the northwest quadrant of campus. Raw water is pumped from the wells and treated with NSF-approved chlorine for purposes of inactivating potentially pathogenic microorganisms.” Treated water is stored in tanks used to supply the university.

Campus housing was unaffected by the recent incident, but many students were wondering if there was any correlation with the water crisis that occurred during the Spring semester. That event happened because construction crews working to maintain infrastructure and the university’s water tanks experienced a loss of pressure to the campus’ drinking water system on April 8. The entire campus was affected, and local media including the Press Democrat and Fox KTVU covered the event. Tests indicated that the water was safe to drink on April 10, lifting all restrictions.

With the two incidents appearing to be connected with aging pipes, the possibility of future disruptions is high. Sonoma State University was founded in 1961, and the campus has been open since 1966, meaning many of the pipes date back over half a century, and Gullixson said, “the old, dated infrastructure experiences eruptions from time to time.”

The network of pipes that feed the campus is a significant area of concern, as the pipes are nearing the end of their useful life. Water pressure combined with aging infrastructure leads to leaks, eruptions, and contamination. Patching one eruption can lead to another leak down the line, as weaknesses in the pipe get exploited by high pressure.

Aging infrastructure is a concern for administration officials, as water lines are dated and should be replaced, but budgetary limitations STAR // Jacob Loher are hindering the efforts. Some students have little Sonoma State University gets its water from this sympathy for the financial dilemma. A third-year well, not from the city of Rohnert Park. business administration major said, “8,668 students

2 Editorial THE STAR Editorial Board Brennan Craig, Editor-in-Chief Jonah Trosky, News Editor Gillian Chaffer, Opinion Editor Jack Messier, Ar ts & Enter tainment Editor Devon Pique, Student Life Editor Holly Chandler, Spor ts Editor Natalie Dolan, Photo Editor Audrey Knopf, Distribution Manager Ashley Cobb, Ad Manager Corinne Asturias, Faculty Adviser Staff Writers Carson Field, Izabel Carillo, Christy Chew, Daniela Clinton, Shay Daly, Christian Dasilva, Julissa Espana, Clark Fahrenthold, Salvador Fernandez Vargas, Athena Franklin, Travis Gillmore, Gianna Grillo, Madison Lam, Leah Magnuson, Julissa Munoz, Ryan Nop, Joseph Owen, Lela Perivolaris, Chelsea Pinkham, Mia Pollak, Eve Rabinovitz, Moira Raffer ty, Jessica Sias, Natalya Swensen, Douglas Trumm, Olivia Verbeck

Photographers Cour tney Bagg, Genesis Botello, Ashley Cobb, Taylor Clark, Audrey Knopf, Jacob Loher

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: “Phi Delta Theta brings life to cystic fibrosis” Phi Delta Theta puts on their annual philanthropy to help find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

Read the article on page 8.

Corrections/Clarifications

SEPT. 17- SEPT. 23, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

A call for clean water

C

onsistent water problems spark the idea that the water systems on campus are outdated. Sonoma State University continues to issue proper safety precautions to provide safe drinking water to its 11,000 students, staff, and faculty.

Over the past few years Sonoma State has sent out numerous emails, cautioning people to not drink and cook with the water that the school provides in fountains and kitchen sinks due to a possible contamination to their well system. Specifically last spring semester members of Sonoma State that lived on campus were put into a tough spot when they were told to not drink the water for the “48 hour period.”

Supposedly the possible contamination was caused by a drop in water pressure. Therefore, the school had to run multiple tests that took “48 hours” to receive results and send out advisory emails.

Unfortunately, members of the Sonoma State community have also received emails in the past, such as the one on Nov. 5, 2018 stating, “Due to a water line break and a valve malfunction this morning, significant parts of the campus experienced reduced water pressure or no water service. Crews have corrected the problem, and all water service has been restored.”

There were no further emails sent advising students that tests were going to be conducted or that the water should be boiled before consuming even though there was “reduced water pressure.” Therefore, the 11,000 members that consumed Sonoma State’s water could very easily have been exposed to harmful contaminants and bacteria.

The emails were very

contradictory in the sense that they advise everyone that it is safe to wash their hands and bathe with the tap water, but to also sanitize immediately after doing so. If one cannot wash their hands without using sanitizer afterwards, they probably should not be using the water at all.

Water contamination can cause severe health problems including neurological disorders, reproductive issues, and gastrointestinal illness.

For such extreme possible side effects there should also be extreme precautionary measures taken in order to avoid and prevent water contamination.

The emails being sent out are untimely and usually sent after a majority of the people on campus have already consumed the possibly contaminated water. Sonoma State University should be sending out text message alerts immediately to ensure the safety of the students, staff, and faculty.

The safety and health of the community should be the University’s number one priority. Instead, the members of this campus receive emails such as, “Yesterday I sent you an email where I shared three options to protect yourself during this ‘Boil Water Advisory’ - one of which was that it was ok to ‘use a Brita filter or other water purifying device.’ When I initially received information about the Advisory, I was informed a filter would suffice due to what we understood at the time about the quality of water on campus.

Since I received that tip about the filter, additional information was made available stating filtered water should still be boiled – which you received by email from the university.

Please accept an apology from myself and my supervisors for

what I shared with you being outdated.”

Sadly, not only was the information outdated but so were the water bottles students received from the University.

Sonoma State offered a measly one water bottle per student during this 48 hour testing period. The water bottles had an expiration date of Jun. 19, 2013. They claim that water bottle expiration dates are for quality not safety. While the water doesn’t go bad the plastic that incapsulates it does.

The chemicals in the plastic will start seeping into the water once the expiration date has been surpassed. Sonoma State University is extremely unprepared for an issue in well contamination that has been going on for years.

In a 2002 water assessment consumer report, “Wells #3 and #4 were identified as being vulnerable to contamination from sewage collection systems.”

After receiving emails that provide inactive links and documentation that says it is from 2018 but provides data from 2002, it is safe to speculate that Sonoma State’s well system could possibly be deteriorating and outdated.

The students, staff, and faculty at Sonoma State University deserve honesty and a reliable drinking source.

There have been too many valve malfunctions, drops in water pressure, and line breaks over the past few years. It is time Sonoma State prioritizes the safety of the community and takes responsibility by making a change to their well system. Perhaps, some of the money students pay to have clean water should be used to make any updates and repairs that the water system needs.

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.

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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 to any letter and to edit for length. Letters must sign all contributions and the editor must verify the signer and the writer are one in the same through personal conference. To send a letter to the editor, email star@sonoma.edu.

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Email star@sonoma.edu for more information.

Opinion 3

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

The Keto diet not as healthy as people think

LEAH MAGNUSON STAFF WRITER

I

n a time where celebrities and fitness influencers alike are discussing their diets and workout routines to lose weight and look amazing, normal people can often fall down a rabbit hole of fad diets and products.

Many may seem like a quick fix to lose a few pounds or build more muscle, but some can do more harm than good.

The Keto diet produces fast results with little sustainability long term. Many have become avid followers of the ketogenic or keto diet for its ability to allow people to shed pounds fast but this diet is not sustainable or healthy in the long run.

It is true that this diet will help someone drop pounds quickly, but doctors and fans agree it should not be followed for more than a couple of months.

According to Maria Petzel, a senior clinical dietitian at MD Anderson, weight loss from the keto diet is similar to any

other diet. What you first lose is water weight which explains why people can rapidly drop pounds in a short amount of time. After that water weight is lost, Petzel states that it is fat loss like any other diet that restricts the amount of calories that you are consuming, regardless of where those calories are coming from.

Petzel states, “Because of the loss of water weight, when they return to a regular diet, people find that they quickly gain back some of the weight they lost during a low-carb diet. If they don’t continue to avoid excess calorie intake they can ultimately gain all of the weight back.”

There seems to be a yo-yo effect that frequently occurs with followers of the keto diet. They will lose weight rapidly and then gain it all back, and then try to lose it once again. This cycle repeats itself over and over. This type of unsustainable diet makes it difficult for people to maintain their results and make lifelong changes to their diet and lifestyle.

Even with these temporary results, many are still firm believers that this is the ticket to better health, when in reality there is no shortcut or magic diet that will completely change their life. This type of diet will produce temporary results at the cost of someone’s overall health. An interview by Insider from dietitian Cathy Posey stated that a low carb and high fat diet can lead to vitamin deficiencies

because of the low intake of fresh fruits, legumes, vegetables and other unprocessed whole foods. Meat and dairy has also been proven to increase inflammation and cause cancerous tumors to grow.

Posey also stated that because many people who follow the keto diet aren’t aware of the bad types of fats that they are consuming, like saturated and trans fat, this diet may actually increase the risk of cardiovascular problems or cause high cholesterol.

Petzel also talked about the “Keto Flu.” Many people have flu-like symptoms after starting the keto diet which can include nausea, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort. This is happening because the body is starving for nutrients from a high fat diet of bacon and butter.

Many are trying to manipulate how the body turns food into fuel and burns fat in the quest of a slim figure but we already know the recipe for a better life.

Study after study has shown that those who have a balanced plant based diet of carbs, protein, and fat will live a healthier lifestyle and are able to stay healthy over a long period of time. We have seen people fall victim to unrealistic diets and the keto diet is no different.

Don’t blindly follow and drink the keto kool aid, do research and talk to a doctor or dietician to see what type of diet is right for you and your lifestyle.

Death-by-vaping epidemic causes concern for new smoking trend

MADISON LAM

STAFF WRITER

I

t is no secret that vaping in the United States has become a serious health issue among young adults and teenagers in the past few years.

On September 11th, President Trump and White House officials met to stop the spread of vaping-related illnesses.

The multi-billion dollar e-cigarette company Juul takes up approximately 75% of the e-cigarette market in the United States. While Juul has claimed consistently that their products are marketed toward helping adults quit cigarette addiction, most of their consumers are young adults and teenagers due to the popular vape flavors Juul offers.

San Francisco was the first U.S. city to take action against Juul and e-cigarettes by banning the products from being sold. But Juul is facing lawsuits and a lot of pressure from organizations, politicians, and government nationwide; such as the FDA demanding that Juul provide evidence that their products are

healthier than “conventional cigarettes,” which is one of their main marketing points for the product.

Many people are developing mysterious lung illnesses that are linked to vaping, but the specific cause of all these illnesses is still unknown. According to the CDC, six people have died due to vaping illnesses and 380 confirmed vapingrelated illnesses have been identified across the U.S. and U.S. Virgin Islands.

While all of this is not a surprise, there has also been a rise in the use of marijuana-vaping products over the past few years. Many people turn to the use of “wax cartridges,” which are marijuana flower and THC concentrate substances that can be smoked through vaporizers. It is a discreet and healthier way to consume marijuana which is why it is favorable to many marijuanausers.

Many young adults are not aware of what they are consuming or what ingredients come in these wax/ marijuana cartridges, which is why there are fake THC cartridges being sold nationwide. Packing of popular weed brands are sold online for sellers to purchase and fill with any type of e-liquid, and they can easily market it as “marijuana” although it’s actually unregulated mysterious chemicals.

Although there isn’t a pinpoint exact cause for vaping-related illnesses, chemists and scientists are sure that it has something to do

with chemical exposure from inhaling the oils to the lungs. Many of these oils are also put into fake weed products, or can even be in the products that’s legally sold in dispensaries.

The flavoring in pens are synthetic chemicals known as proplyene glycol and polyethelyne glycol, which can exacerbate asthma and allergies according to a 2010 study. Along with inhaling these chemicals, many vape pens have a heating feature, but the higher temperature that the e-liquids are consumed at, the more chemicals are released into your lungs.

Amid all of these health concerns, many people aren’t phased by it. Marijuana users favor these wax pens because they are able to self-medicate discreetly and without burning actual flower; and smokers with cigarette addictions are able to cut down on their nicotine intake.

Although the Trump administration cutting the sales of flavored Juul products will help to stop teenagers from using them, there are many other brands on the market that people will or can turn to.

While it is the duty of these ecigarette brands and the government to regulate healthy products, millennials and young teenagers alike should be more cautious about what they are consuming and take into account the mysterious illnesses people around them are contracting.

The price to pay for Prime

LELA PERIVOLARIS STAFF WRITER

T

he price of convenience is not free despite what Amazon’s free two-day, one-day, or same day delivery services may lead consumers to believe. Ordering that twelve-pack of bamboo straws to help save the turtles may help you sleep at night, but many are left unaware of the major consequences e-commerce continues to threaten the environment with.

While ordering from online retailers may reduce emissions compared to individuals driving to and from stores for themselves, UPS reported in 2017 that “ecommerce growth continued to drive unprecedented package volume, and, in our business, more package volume means more miles and emissions.”

Described as the “efficiency paradox” by OZY, lower costs and free returns allow consumers to order in higher quantities, therefore requiring a larger volume of “packaging, plastic foam, and plastic wrap.”

Even amidst backlash from employees advocating for reform in company practices to reduce Amazon’s carbon footprint (which has yet to be disclosed), they continue to build up their delivery fleet from sprinter vans to Boeing 737s. The move was announced this June after FedEx did not renew their air cargo service contract, leading to the expansion of Amazon Air with the intention of having 70 aircrafts as a part of their network by 2020.

In support of the Global Climate Strike, over 1,000 Amazon Seattle headquarters employees plan to walkout on September 20. The protest is led by Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, a group organized in late 2018 who demanded change from Jeff Bezos in an open letter signed by over 8,000 employees at Amazon’s annual shareholder meeting in May. Their proposal, which requested Amazon’s board of directors to publish a public report on climate change, was denied due to Amazon’s Shipment Zero plan. According to an interview from the Guardian with Amazon Air senior product manager Rebecca Sheppard, “The week after leadership found out this letter was being circulated internally, Amazon announced Shipment Zero, our company’s first ever commitment to reduce shipping emissions… it was clearly done in response to our letter.”

While Shipment Zero pledges to “reach 50% of all Amazon shipments with net zero carbon by 2030,” as disclosed by Amazon’s blog “Day One,” Sheppard says that the plan will only apply to package delivery and not Amazon’s data centers. A Gizmodo investigation found that Amazon Web Services is “selling its fossil-fuelled cloud to oil, gas, and coal companies, to help them better find and extract more fossil fuels.”

In response to this information, Amazon Employees for Climate Justice are advocating for three policies: zero emissions (instead of the 50% net zero emission deliveries), termination of all Amazon Web Services contracts with fossil fuel business, and to eliminate funding towards any climate-change-denying politicians or lobbyists.

Being that Jeff Bezos is the wealthiest individual alive, if there is any company that holds the capacity to innovate for the future unlike anyone else, it’s Amazon. While employee emission-control demands may sound like tall orders, climate change is incredibly time-sensitive, and needs to be addressed right away.

Amazon managed to transform the e-commerce world, and the same should apply to revolutionizing greener company practices.

Glamorizing abusive relationships seen too often in films

IZABEL CARRILLO

STAFF WRITER

L

ove will once again be in the air come February 2020. Harley Quinn will be getting her own spin off movie, Birds of Prey, after Suicide Squad’s release in 2016. The movie will be based on Harley Quinn’s relationship with The Joker, but ultimately she decides to leave his side. Gotham City has gone unprotected since Batman has disappeared. Cassandra, a new character in the movie, comes across a diamond belonging to a Masked Villain. Harley Quinn teams up with a few other villains, Black Canary, Renee and Huntress to protect the girl and the diamond.

Let’s not forget the real reason we all fell in love

with Harley Quinn in the first place. Her sassy personality wasn’t the only thing. Her relationship with The Joker was what had a lot of viewers hashtagging #relationshipgoals. Harley Quinn was over the moon about her Puddin’, as she calls him in the movie; but their relationship wasn’t the ideal that should be idolized.

Harley Quinn and Joker had what some would call an abusive relationship. According to Time, “theirs is a twisted story of domestic abuse.” In Suicide Squad the way they meet and fell in love wasn’t exactly your typical love story. Quinn is abused verbally and physically by The Joker. In the actual comic books it goes deeper than what has been shown on the big screen, and DC Comics isn’t the only movie that’s glamorized abusive relationships.

Back in 2008, Summit Entertainment decided to bring Stephanie Meyer’s popular book series to the big screen. Edward Cullin and Bella Swan become the it couple between 2008 and 2012. The Twilight craze began when Bella fell in love with a vampire. When Bella first starts at Forks High School, she sees herself as the awkward, unsocial, unattractive, and uncoordinated. But she just so happens to catch the most popular guys’ attention--Edward Cullen.

Edward knows he has her attention and can make her do anything he asks. As for Bella, when Edward ignores her, she begins to chase after what she knows she can’t have. Edward warns her and lets her know

she shouldn’t be coming after him. That draws Bella to him even more.

Eventually Edward uses his power over her and has her alienate herself from all the people around her.

Bella doesn’t mind the violence, she actually finds it exciting and likes the dangerous situations she’s put in. According to Wind Goodfriend who has a Ph.D. in psychology, films like these can actually cause many issues among teens who are the primary viewers of superhero and romance movies. “In the case of Twilight, it’s possible that the millions of screaming fans might be learning how to fall victim to a violent relationship.”

These movies have in some ways glorified abusive relationships. Bella’s low self esteem draws the attention of men who like to feel like the alpha. Harley Quinn loves danger and the joker delivers just that.

We’ve seen how twilight ends with Bella and Edward living happily ever after but Bella and her daughter went through a lot to get to that point. Are these really the relationship goals we should be looking at?

With 20 people per minute being abused by a partner according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, films like these definitely are not helping. Physical or not, showcasing any sort of abusive behavior on screen is dangerous. Harley Quinn and the Joker will have all eyes on their relationship come February 2020.

4 News

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Sonoma Film Institute

DOUG TRUMM STAFF WRITER

T

he Sonoma Film Institute offers many films that are screened free of charge.

The movies, displayed in Ives Hall, often center around meaningful and thought-provoking topics. Each week on both Friday and Sunday, the film welcomes the community and students to come in and enjoy a movie.

The institute has existed on campus since 1973, and since then has unspooled enough “film celluloid to reach the next galaxy,’’ according to the university homepage. Recently, the institute has moved towards an admissionfree method for showing their films, relying on tax-deductible donations for income. Hopefully, this will result in more students being open to come in and explore the films. One of the organization’s main goals is to provide cultural benefits and enrichment to the campus and nearby community. This new admission free method of screening may help them further their goal by introducing a wider audience.

Recently, the institute screened “Buddy”, a touching documentary about service dogs and their experiences. This film allowed students and community members to get a glimpse into the lives of people who depend on dogs. It is not every day we encounter people with this kind of interspecies dependency in their lives, and the screening helped to put that into the spotlight. Many attendees of the film found value in the viewing experience, as comments on the institute’s Facebook page show.

Following this, “Asakao I & II” was shown from September 6-8. This Japanese production that showcased the dynamics of love and followed a woman through a unique case of doppelgangers.

Most recently, this past weekend’s screening of “Worlds of Ursula K.

Le Guin” demonstrated a female science fiction writer’s life story, struggles and successes. Le Guin, who recently passed away in 2018, blazed a new path in her life by being one of the first female science fiction authors. She introduced women into focus in a genre that was previously dominated by men, and ultimately her books sold well despite many naysayers. Arwen Curry, the director of this documentary, was present on the Sonoma State Campus this past Friday for questions and more.

Many upcoming films will focus on cultural diversity and topics of gender. Future productions include “A Raisin in the Sun”, “13 Conversations About One Thing”, “The Third Wife”, “Mur Murs”, and “Black Panthers”, according to the posted schedule.

“A Raisin in the Sun” will touch on family dynamic issues, as well as race relations in Chicago.

This was a landmark film in the industry upon its release being “the first drama to be produced by a black woman to ever feature on Broadway”, according to Film4. The film features critically acclaimed actor Sidney Poitier and has won several awards. The screening for this film will be on Friday of this week, beginning at 7:00 in the evening. The matinee will be on Sunday the 22nd at 4:00 p.m.

Following this will be the film “13 Conversations About One Thing.”

This production focuses on capturing the feel of American life, by following five separate people around as they survive in New York. Critics from the BBC describes the film as “reveling in fashionable cynicism”, but ultimately allowing “faith in human nature to win out.”

COURTESY // Santa Fe Reporter The Third Wife, one of the many movies being shown by the Sonoma Film Institute.

NEWS IN BRIEF Florida

London Global oil prices spiked 20% when markets reopened on Monday, after a weekend attack on Saudi Arabia’s oil facilities suspended the production of 5.7 million barrels a day--that amounts to roughly 5% of the world’s total daily crude oil production.

Genetic genealogy led Florida investigators to a suspect in a 2016 killing, and he has been linked through DNA and other forensic evidence to at least three other slayings from a decade prior, authorities said Monday.

Santa Rosa hosts another year of water bark JULISSA MUNOZ STAFF WRITER

W

ith this end of summer heat-wave arising, many pet dogs have been lingering in the shade trying to stay as far away from the sun as possible. If you find your pup doing the same, there is a great solution.

Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation is hosting “Water Bark” at Spring Lake every weekend for the remainder of September.

The Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation is a local Nonprofit organization that works with over 50 parks and trails in the Sonoma County area.

Water Bark is a great way to get your pet in the sun, and cooled off during these hot end-ofsummer days. Not only will they get to run around off-leash and splash around, but they will also be able to do it with all their furry friends.

“For four weekends in September following Labor Day, dogs are welcome at the Spring Lake Swimming Lagoon for off-leash swimming and romping. The water in the swimming lagoon is filtered and chlorinated to ensure it is safe for dogs.”

Said Melissa Kelley, the Water Bark Executive director.

Water Bark is hosted annually and is a significant fundraiser for the Sonoma County Regional Parks Foundation. By hosting this event, they are raising money for a 50 some dog-friendly parks and trails in the Sonoma County area.

Here in Sonoma County, we are fortunate enough to have many dog-friendly lakes, rivers, trails and parks. Not everywhere is so kind to our fourlegged friends.

Kody Kennedy, a Sonoma State Senior, and dog owner said “the creators of water bark did a great

job thinking outside of the box. This is not something you see or hear about often, or even ever.” Water Bark is only held once a year, and this is the perfect time for it, dogs deserve a chance to beat this heat too.

“It gets boring and repetitive going to the average dog park every day because the dogs don’t have the opportunity to run free through the water and splash around the same way as they would at the lake.

I also think the no leash rule is a great way for dogs to socialize with each other, and it offers dogs new freedom that they may have not experienced before.”

Said Kennedy.

It is also important to note that the water had been purified and the algae have been tested to ensure the safety of your pets and their health. The Water Park Foundation stated “Many people are understandably concerned about the current issue of algae in untreated waterways in Sonoma County.

Please note that Regional Parks treats the Water Bark to keep it safe for dogs. The Water Bark is located in the Spring Lake swimming lagoon, which is chlorinated, filtered and closely monitored by Regional Parks staff. As an extra precaution, Regional Parks is increasing its water treatments for the month of September. The swimming lagoon is separate from Spring Lake, which is not treated.”

The Sonoma County Regional Parks foundation has also provided different pricing and memberships to dog bark on their website they state “Each dog gets its very own ID card, like a gym membership” This is a fun way for your dog to work off his energy and get some valued playtime in. Their website also offers more in-depth details about the pricing and locations for Water Bark.

STAR // Genesis Botello Karl Denk observing dogs at Water Bark

News 5

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Try your luck at the Wheel of Fortune this weekend MOIRA RAFFERTY

STAFF WRITER

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he Wheel of Fortune is returning to the bay area, and is coming back to the Graton Casino on Sept. 20 and 21. The Wheelmobile will conduct contestant searches on both those days, to find contestants in Northern California.

It is a 38-foot Winnebago that tours nationwide to find the perfect contestants for America’s Game.

Sonoma State Alumni, John Lawson, remembers when the Wheel of Fortune took place in Rohnert Park a few years back when he was still attending Sonoma State.

“It is such a fun experience,” says Lawson “you go with friends and just try it out for the heck of it, and since it takes place at the Casino so after the event you can go grab drinks and gamble.”

During each day of a Wheelmobile event, there will be three Wheel of Fortune Shows taking place that approximately last about an hour each.

A color-coded application will be passed out to everyone who decides to partake in the Wheelmobile event. Depending on the color of the application you receive, you will know the time the game you are eligible for is beginning.

After filling out the application, you will drop it in a nearby receptacle. All the applications will be placed in a golden drum on stage, right before the show begins.

The wheel mobile host will then pick applications at random from the drum and ask for participants in groups of five, to then come up on stage to play the game.

There will be a brief interview on stage with each contestant, and there will be a round of Wheel of Fortune, Speed-Up played.

Every person that gets called to the stage will be evaluated as a potential contestant for the show. Once the puzzle is resolved, all candidates will be rewarded with a prize.

After the event has been conducted, directors will choose whom they believe

will make the best candidates for the show, based on overall performance, and have those called back for a final round of auditions. This will take place in Northern California a few months later, after the last events take place.

They will try to get as many people as they can on stage, for those that do not get the opportunity though they will draw a several names from all Northern California for these slots in the final round. This will be announced a few months after the last event.

Nick Steele, a broadcaster of 96.5 KOIT, says that it is a “cool experience to have and said that you did,” and “plus you never know right?” on an entry of the radio’s webpage.

He also points out how they got some cool merchandise pens along with a tote bag just for attending the event.

In the previous years, the event has gotten record-winning attendance because it allows others who have never thought they could see/try the Wheel of Fortune have been able because Graton organizes it.

“I remember watching it both my grandmother and mother,” shared Sharonda White, who went in the past, with ABC7 News. Since then she had been able to go see it with her own eyes live.

By catering the event outside of San Francisco, it gives others the opportunity to attend without having to drive all the way into the city and deal with the traffic that can come with it.

The events will be taking place on Friday, Sept. 20 from 6-10 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 21 from 2-6 p.m. in The Graton Resort & Casino Ballrooms on 288 Golf Course Drive W, Rohnert Park, 94928. Anybody attending must be 18 years of age, due to gaming restrictions only those 21 and over can apply to participate in the game.

Wheel of Fortune is coming to Graton Casino Sept. 20 and 21.

COURTESY // Google

Suicide at Graton Rancheria CLARK FAHRENTHOLD

STAFF WRITER

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his past Monday, Sept. 9, a man jumped to his death from the top of the Graton Rancheria parking garage. According to the police report, the man took his own life shortly after breaking free from police custody.

The police were called to the scene at 1:30 a.m after the man, who at the time was standing on a four-foot-high wall on the top of the parking garage, which is a five-story drop to the bottom floor, continued to threaten that he was going to jump.

The man was identified as 24-year-old Nevada Geoffrey Wise Bertagnolli. He was visiting the Casino and Rohnert Park area with a loved one.

Shortly before his fatal jump, it appeared that local police officers had the situation under control as they grabbed the man, after he had become distracted, and moved him away from the edge of the parking garage. The man was then handcuffed and put under ‘psychiatric custody’ for his safety.

However, while being taken to a squad patrol car, Bertagnolli was able to break free. And subsequently ran back toward the edge and jumped, falling to his death. Emergency Medical Technicians or EMT’s, who are responsible for providing basic care for medical emergencies, declared him dead on

site.

According to the Police report, “the officers that responded to the scene kept their lights and sirens so not to scare the 24-year-old”.

Shortly after their arrival, the negation team took over to do their best to talk the man down from the ledge.

Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Misti Wood said: “Deputies began talking to him in an effort to understand his situation and convince him to get off the wall safely.”

Wood’s also went on to say, “The Hostage Negotiations Team, fire department, and emergency medical personnel were called in to assist.”

According to a press release from the Sonoma County Sheriff: “Having managed to restrain Bertagnolli, officers handcuffed him, and continued to talk to him to de-escalate the situation. He was not under arrest, and would have been transported to a hospital or crisis stabilization unit had he not broken free from custody.”

The case is still under the current investigation. But the violent crimes unit is investigating the case, and the Marin County coroner’s office is responsible for conducting the

autopsy.

The suicide comes to a shock to many in the Rohnert Park area. Current Sonoma State Junior Jonah Lewis said “ Any time you hear of a suicide, your heart goes out to that person and their family immediately. But also for Graton itself, I’m sure as a staple for this community this is not an easy thing to deal with.”

Lewis went on to say, “Things like this just happen far too often today. I just wish when people felt like this that they would seek help or just be more willing to talk to someone so that they don’t feel like taking their life is their only way out.”

With and traumatic event such as this, it is always good to remember you are not alone. If you know anyone who is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to contact a medical professional or and emergency service. Or contact the 24-hour suicide hotline by calling (800)-273-8255

According to Sonoma State’s Counseling and Psychological Services, “it is important to get appropriate treatment as soon as possible. The most important thing friends and family can do to help an individual who is depressed or suicidal is to help this person receive the appropriate treatment.”

STAR // Jacob Loher Graton Resort and Casino Building, the site of a recent suicide from the top of the parking structure.

6 Arts

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Body Language Productions: the student group on the rise

EVE RABINOVITZ STAFF WRITER

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he Body Language Productions team is building a community of music enthusiasts as they spread awareness through the genre of electronic dance music. Sonoma State University students Christian Francisco, Jacob Gonzales, Allan Lock, Tyler Chase and Edgar Avalos all come together to share their passion for music under their group label, Body Language Productions.

The inspiration underscoring the collaboration came from one member, Jacob Gonzales. While the Sonoma State student has been a DJ for a few years now--working and contributing to music festivals such as Lightning in a Bottle, Outside Lands, Snowglobe and many more--he shares his passion for electronic music at greek life events as well.

Throughout his experiences, however, Gonzales noticed Sonoma County lacked a community of electronic/dance music, as did his fellow members of Body Language Productions.

With high hopes and dreams, the production team came together with a mutual interest of wanting to expand and share their knowledge of the electronic/dance music world. Ready to take risks and challenge themselves, the boys throw themselves out into the open and advocate for bringing something new to the table. All of the members have a background in working as a DJ and found that the production company would be a perfect way to showcase their work. The group aims to provide the community with a free space to enjoy and dance to electronic music all while expanding their landscape of passion for creating music.

“Body Language Productions is a collection of passionate individuals who are driven to create the best possible experience. By utilizing each others’ talents and assets we can create unforgettable and well thought-out events,” says group member, Christian Francisco.

The team had previously worked together on the locally renowned fundraiser and Halloween event, “Freaky Tales.” The event--a concert put together by a group of Sonoma State University students to host professional music artists--is used as a tool for members to learn how to invest money and create revenue COURTESY // BODY LANGUAGE PRODUCTIONS for their organization.

Body Language Productions team members and DJs pose for the camIn years prior, the “Freaky Tales” team was able to book popular artists such as E-40, era.

Too Short, Jeremiah, Nef the Pharaoh and YG. The event provided a security team to ensure everything ran smoothly and guests could enjoy their experience listening to music, taking photos at the photo booth and purchasing merchandise.

“Freaky Tales” was a huge turning point for the Body Language Production team. The success of the event equipped them with the confidence to continue pursuing events of the like and create their own identity within the industry.

“The production team is more than just a group of DJs, but a group of individuals whose focus is to create an enjoyable environment for electronic/ dance admirers,” Francisco goes on to say.

The Body Language Production team has already initiated a successful start to the group’s overall mission.

The group has also been hired by the Sonoma State University fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi, to host its Cal Skate event on Sept. 19. “Nedd,” Edgar Avalos, will be headlining the event and Tyler Chase will be its opener. On Sept. 21, the production team will also be hosting “The Late Night Techno Show,” with Michélin and Jacob Gonzales performing at the event’s venue, Tradewinds bar, in downtown Cotati.

For those of age, also look out for Body Language Productions at downtown Cotati’s Spanky’s bar on Oct. 19, Nov. 15 and Dec. 14.

Follow the team on Instagram at @ BodyLanguageProductions for more future events.

Feeling inspired? The Body Language Productions team is hiring individuals looking to gain experience and expand their knowledge in this music industry. The team is looking for multiple positions such as: social media, photographers and videographers, booking agents, graphic designers and more. If you feel like you can contribute to the team in any way, email bodylanguageproductions19@gmail. com.

‘IT Chapter Two’: early reviews proving scarier than new film GIANNA GRILLO STAFF WRITER

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he new film, “IT Chapter Two” recently opened at the box office on Sept. 6, greeted by mixed reviews from the audience--but fan-wide anticipation and excitement prevail in its opening week numbers nonetheless. The film is the second of the series, in which the members of “The Losers Club” are called back to Derry 27 years after the events of the first film, which holds the box office record for the second biggest horror film opening of all time. “IT Chapter Two,” however, is more about the aftereffects of the trauma that the cast members endure in the first film.

“It’s inevitably bleaker and less colorful, but that is ultimately what Stephen King is doing--he’s saying adulthood is a bummer compared to childhood,” says Andy Muschietti, who directed both films. “It’s a story about the loss of everything that is so beautiful about being a child, like the power to imagine, the power to believe in things that don’t exist,” he goes on to say.

One of the different aspects that the second film possesses over the first one is its nodes of humor--of course, that does not mean that the film lacks its fair share of jump scares. The characters this time around are especially likeable, as we see them reconnecting after many years apart, acting like grownups remembering their youth. Some of the critiques from the audience, however, include that, even though there was a lot of humor that made the movie enjoyable in one aspect, more of the scary elements--that they were especially expecting to see--should have surfaced to a greater degree.

Due to the film’s lengthy duration, which was almost three hours, Muschietti clearly aims to include both humor and horror into the film to create a hopeful balance. Other viewers expressed their own critique, with one saying that the film is, “basically a three hour version of the first film but the only change is the characters are adults and less charming. Not really worth a sequel,” says Alachia Queen.

Other reviews provided a more balanced viewer approach, with one saying that, “(‘It Chapter Two’) is entertaining and properly creepy throughout, but it would’ve been nice if it had taken time to slow down here and there,” says Toby Woollaston.

What does make the film enjoyable are the f lashbacks that permeate it from the first film, showing

COURTESY // INDIEWIRE Swedish actor Bill Istvan Günther Skarsgård pictured in his role as Pennywise the Dancing Clown the characters as little kids. The casting for the film is also incredible and the scenes of the characters as kids are equally excellent as audiences revisit that aspect of the film. Despite some of the critical reviews that “IT Chapter Two” receives--and even though

it was a little bit lengthy for a horror film--the movie has gained a lot of success overall, with $185 million in sales at the box office to prove it thus far--but will it hold up?

Entertainment 7

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

‘Pops on the Lawn’ puts spotlight on Wind Ensemble, Concert band CHRISTIAN DASILVA STAFF WRITER

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ormally confined to the inside of the Sonoma State University music hall, the Wind Ensemble and Concert band rocked the lawn center last Friday, Sept. 13 for students to enjoy campuswide.

For the first time ever, Sonoma State University’s two bands received the opportunity to play outside where anyone on campus is able to listen and enjoy.

Groups of students spread themselves out on the lawn in front of the wine center, quietly listening and loudly applauding for over an hour. Although the event’s duration did not extend for too long, many students waiting between classes, or just getting out from class--some even coming from the dorms--all came out to listen.

With just a portion of the playlist showcasing a wide variety of iconic hits from Grease, Indiana Jones, The Beach Boys and Rolling Stones, what isn’t there to enjoy? The first half of the event was strictly played by the Wind Ensemble, as it was ultimately paired with the concert band for the second half.

Patiently waiting in the shade, concert band member Amit Deb happily shares his appreciation of both the event and the University’s music program. As a new freshman, Deb’s first time being able to perform outside with his classmates would be for the outdoor concert. Fittingly excited to play, Deb is appreciative towards the music program for being so welcoming and supportive toward its students.

While a part of campus life for only a month’s time, the program’s Admin says, “the program is welcoming

and friendly to everyone. If you have some experience with music, you can come and join the concert band, play fun classic songs and easily make friends.”

Sonoma State’s concert band is open to anyone who is interested, regardless of major.

In being a part of the concert band for six semesters, Olivia Olson is both a senior and a psychology major. While Olson has played for quite some time, performing for the school on multiple occasions, this was her first one of the new semester.

“It’s pretty cool, being able to host (the concert) in public; it opens up opportunity for people to come and see it in an open environment. Concert band doesn’t normally have many opportunities like this,” Olson says.

Surely, the outdoor concert brings a different level of appreciation to the University’s band when it gains opportunity to display members’ practices outside of the classroom and just play for friends and classmates’ enjoyment all in the same place. Importantly, continuing campus community-like events, like the outdoor concert, helps to empower a greater physical liveliness to the campus overall. Even students pulled onto campus for a Friday class were happily greeted by the band, as they too stuck around and enjoyed.

The Dean of the Arts and Humanities Department, Dr. Hollis Robbins, also stopped by to enjoy the event for a while. Robbins says, “when Andy Collinsworth first brought me the idea for performing for students outside, I said, ‘absolutely, yes! How can I help?’” With

a deep appreciation for the music program, Dr. Robbin’s department is the one responsible for finding and funding bands to play at public events. “Let’s see how this event works and what kind of campus support we get, but I think this was a success” says Dr. Robbins. As it is especially an easy, cost effective and fantastically fun event for students to come out and enjoy, “Pops on the Lawn” is great for the campus community as it is for the bands’ members themselves-- hopefully we can look forward to more events of the like.

After the show, the Conductor of the bands, Dr. Andy Collinsworth, joyfully discusses his thoughts on, and involvement in, the event’s happenings. In being the director of the bands and the one to come forward with the idea to play for the students, Dr. Collinsworth says, “this was our first time doing this, so we’ll take a look at doing it again next Spring, but I was really excited that we had the opportunity to play here.”

Although the Friday, Sept. 13 event may have been the last for the fall semester, members and students alike are hopeful that the support from listeners will catalyze more event scheduling for the future. For those who missed the performance but still want to listen to either of the bands, multiple events are still coming soon.

A live performance from the Wind Ensemble group, playing 1935’s original “Frankenstein,” is scheduled for Oct. 30 and 31. Additional live performances are to be announced for Oct. 12 and Dec. 10, with a plethora of events to look forward to thereafter.

STAR // JACOB LOHER The Sonoma State University Wind Ensemble and Concert band perform outside.

‘It’s a Guy Thing’ addresses topics ‘we need to be talking more about’

RYAN NOP

STAFF WRITER

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n honest meeting on masculinity that ditches pursuit of feminism or orientation: “It’s a Guy Thing,” held on Thursday, Sept. 12 at the University Student Center’s “The Hub,” opens a dialogue on men’s roles in modern society--establishing a judgement-free zone for students to reflect upon themselves with others.

The topic discussed at the genesis of the meeting, the ever-evolving concept of masculinity, allows students to define it on a basic level as qualities or attributes regarded as characteristics of men. Yet, the event’s group setting allows for students to expand such basic understanding of masculinity in listening to others’ definitions based on their own unique, individual experiences. “(The meeting) gives you an understanding of the various perceptions of masculinity out there; it also gives you a better understanding if you simply did not know much about masculinity before.

Taking Women’s and Gender Studies class has helped me get a well rounded understanding of what masculinity is and what it means to be a man, too,” says Sonoma State student, Derek, one leader of the “It’s a Guy Thing” meeting.

Among additional concepts of interest for students attending the event surrounds questioning as to why the word masculinity cannot be used for women; “why is it only used for men,” the group raises. As discussion finds participants in varying states of agreement, Jordan, another group leader assisting the meeting, reminds participants that division on topics is still equaled by the mutual passion and overarching goal of “It’s a Guy

Thing:” a space “for all genders to talk about men and masculinity and how we each experience it; a way to build a community through the experiences,” she says.

While the meeting’s ensuing activities showcased more questions on the whiteboard worthy of discussion, a greater focus is brought towards the underlying importance behind individual perceptions of masculinity. Questions like “what does masculinity mean to you?” and “who were your role models of masculinity?” as well as “how does your understanding of masculinity change over time?” pervaded throughout “The Hub,” as everyone feeds conversation with different facets about these questions that ignite particular overlapping concern.

When confronted with the question of what there is to be gained from “It’s a Guy Thing,” Jordan says, “A greater overall sense of awareness on gender and how gender shows up in our lives and experiences; a space where you can gain some insight on masculinity and the expression of it; one where we can ask questions about gender and discuss healthy and unhealthy forms of masculinity.”

While anyone is invited to attend “The Hub’s” “It’s a Guy Thing” event, male or female, students participating in the event’s dialogue receive free pizza and drinks in return. The meeting proves to be very informative on the topic of masculinity. Every meeting spotlights different topics about men that have gathered controversy in the past and presents how we can try to change it while simultaneously informing students on the matter.

STAR // ASHLEY COBB Top: Derek Bradley(left)- Staff member at Student Outreach, and Chann Christy(right)- a fourth year Computer Science major, actively listen and participate in the group discussion.

Below: Students listening to the questions proposed at the event.

8 Student Life

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Phi Delta Theta brings light to cystic fibrosis CARSON FIELD STAFF WRITER

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oming soon to Sonoma State University’s campus is Phi Delta Theta Cal Sigma’s 20th annual Teeter Totter philanthropy event.

Phi Delta Theta Cal Sigma was established at Sonoma State April of 1997. However, Phi Delta Theta did not create their current philanthropy event until fellow brother, Woody Bolin, left a lasting effect on the fraternity and the community.

“Woody was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis in his early 20’s. The brotherhood then decided to start the event to raise money for his treatment” said Sean Macsween, the current president of Sonoma State’s Phi Delta Theta chapter. “He passed away a few years later and Woody’s impact on the chapter was so significant, they decided to continue this event in honor of his name.”

Phi Delta Theta’s Teeter Totter event is held every Fall and has become the largest fraternity philanthropy held on Sonoma State University’s campus.

The fraternity also prides themselves on continuing the fight against Cystic Fibrosis, not only for their fallen brother Woody Bolin, but also for the rest of the Cystic Fibrosis community.

“Cystic Fibrosis is a life changing progressive illness which affects the patient’s lung capacity,” said Macsween. “It affects all ages and currently, there is no cure for this disease”.

This event will be held 24 hours a day, seven days a week starting on Sept.

30th at 8 a.m. to October 4th ending at 7 p.m. on campus at Sonoma State. A large teeter totter will be at the event where two people will consistently be rocking back and forth, to join in the

effort to fight Cystic Fibrosis.

“The length of this event offers innumerable opportunities to interface with the entire Sonoma State, Sonoma County, and Cystic Fibrosis communities.” said Macsween.

The men in this fraternity truly believe in their cause and are driven to fight not only for the victims of Cystic Fibrosis but also to bring knowledge and support to those who are indirectly affected as well.

“My favorite part of this event is bringing our fraternity, alumni, community, and those suffering from Cystic Fibrosis together,” said Patrick Stack, a fourth year Phi Delta Theta brother. “It shows how strong our support system is and that those suffering from this disease will not fight their battle alone.”

From this event alone, Phi Delta Theta raises tens of thousands of dollars for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation every year. However, this year they are hoping to raise more money than ever before to help those in need.

“This year is our 20th anniversary and our goal is $20,000,” said Stack.

President Macsween then added, “It is predicted that $90 million in research funding is needed to find a cure. Phi Delt is attempting to raise the $20,000 to make any difference we can.”

This event is not exclusive to only greek life. Instead, this is a campus wide event at Sonoma State University and is even open to the public.

“Phi Delt wants to include everyone in this event, whether you are a student or not. This is an event for the public and the Cystic Fibrosis community to raise funds and awareness.” said Vincent Spence, a third year Phi Delta Theta brother, “We play music,

COURTESY // Facebook Members of Phi Delta Theta proudly pose on their teeter totter. have couches and chairs set up, shirts and wristbands for sale, and more famously our giant teeter totter all open to anyone and everyone!”

Come out this fall and join the fight against Cystic Fibrosis with the Phi Delta Theta men from Sept. 30thOct. 4th. If one is unable to attend the event, Phi Delta Theta offers several

other ways to support and join in. The fraternity encourages those to stop by their table Mon.-Thurs. in Seawolf Plaza from Sept. 16-26, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or go online to www.ssuphidelt.com/ philanthropy to donate or purchase a shirt or wristband. All donations and funds go directly to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in hopes to find a cure.

Emergency Leadership Come learn at the Filipino feminist lecture Retreat coming to campus DANIELA CLINTON

JESSICA SIAS

STAFF WRITER

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omen’s rights have been an ongoing issue for nearly 70 years, but there has been a far greater emphasis on the topic now more than ever.

Sonoma State University has made it a goal to empower women and educate people by hosting various different feminist lecture series. On Mon. Sept. 23 there will be another feminist lecture series which will focus in on the historical roots as well as the opression of Filipino women.

This lecture series will be held in Stevenson 1002, it will begin at 12:05 p.m., and will last a little under an hour. This lecture, as well as the others apart of the series, are free and open to the public.

Each lecture focuses in on a certain place in the world and makes the struggles of the women who live there today relevant and known. By putting on this series the university aims to connect the women’s liberation movement to the national democratic struggle of the people.

This lecture in particular will be educating the audience about things occuring in the Philippines as well as talk about GABRIELA USA. GABRIELA stands for General Assembly Binding Women for Reforms, Integrity, Education, Leadership, and Action. GABRIELA USA is the first overseas chapter that extended their movement to the USA. “ I chose to organize it around the theme protest, justice, and transnational organizing which is the theme of the National Women’s Studies Association annual meeting,” said Brooke Lober, the coordinator of this event. This year transnational feminism is coming together with organizations and protests which is exciting because we are in an era of an increase in feminist movements, not only

STAFF WRITER

in the U.S. but also expanding to several other countries.

Imar Shauf-Bajar will be the speaker for this lecture, “Break Our Chains: The Situation and Struggle of the Filipino Women.” Imar Shauf-Bajar is the chairperson on the GABRIELA USA National Executive Committee. For each series Lober invited speakers who were active in movements and who also work in local organizations that have a transnational reach.

Being able to have organizations that not only focus in on what is going on locally but also globally is ideal because feminist movemnts have been expanding across the globe quickly. These series highlight the different struggles that women in different countries face. Women are oppressed in all countries but in various different ways. It is important that people begin understanding what exactly is occurring in the different countries as well as understand why.

“I really wanted to do something for students where they felt like they would have a chance to dive in,” said Lober on what students can take away from this series. At times it is not clear nor obvious on how to participate in world change. That is one of the reasons behind why Lober chose speakers who work locally but their work also helps globally. This way students can get aid world change in an achievable manner.

“Feminism has become a topic of discussion for a while now, especially in the global north. Yet as feminists, we must be conscious of those in the global south and other nation states that are involved in the movement as well,” said Rojin Bijan a student in this lecture series.

COURTESY // Wikipedia Gabriela is a group meant to empower women across the globe.

I

t is always a good day to become a leader at Sonoma State University.

The Emerging Leader Retreat is a two day overnight leadership retreat that is designed to get students acclimated to their campus resources and get their leadership journey started on campus. On Sept.

21, there will be an overnight retreat that some students will be able to attend in the Alliance Redwoods from 2 p.m. Sat., Sept. 21 to 4 p.m. Sun., Sept. 22.

This event is intended to have Seawolves come together, learn, bond, and create long lasting memories with the rest of the students and staff that will be attending.

There is limited space for the amount of students that could attend the retreat. This year Associated Students will only be taking 35 students and will be offering spots available on a first come first serve basis.

Marina Briones, who works for Student Involvement as an event coordinator, is the lead coordinator of the Emerging Leader Retreat and has been working with other students and staff to make this retreat possible. The main goal of this retreat is to give students the opportunity to get involved on campus and work alongside other students to become excellent leaders.

“Through peer-to-peer interactions, students will leave with at least one personal connection that they can take away from the experience. At the end of the retreat, students will leave knowing and understanding at least 5 other resources/offices/departments on campus that can further their leadership development at SSU by creating a leadership action plan and most importantly have fun,” said Briones.

Mo Phillips works for the Student Involvement and has also been proactive with the planning of this retreat.

“Emerging Leaders are students who are new to campus, transfer students, or second year students, that are looking to get involved. It is intended for these students to be surrounded by people who are interested in the same things and there will be opportunities for them to get involved,” said Phillips.

Student Involvement wants to make sure seawolves all around campus find their place on campus and make Sonoma State their home away from home.

“This is the beginning to

things. The Emerging Leader Retreat will happen in the Fall. Students will be learning about internship and graduate school opportunities. It is a matter of taking advantage when you look into how you want to get involved. Taking advantage of these opportunities is important,” said Phillips.

There are Seawolves that will run student lead discussions and workshops to help fellow peers with the desire of getting involved the same way those seawolves did.

Nicole Rivera is a third year undeclared student that will be leading student led discussions at the event and talk about her path to becoming a leader and being part of the Sonoma State community.

“Last year there was a retreat.

When I first started college, I did not know how to get involved, and this was a good way to get involved, which is why im participtaing this year,” said Rivera.

Although this Emerging Leader Retreat will only happen during the Fall semester there will be other events and workshops that can help Seawolves get involved.

“We are creating a new series called “Seawolves Lead” in which several different leadership opportunities will be open to those interested in learning more about leadership and their own leadership journeys. This is being developed now and will be kicked off with our Emerging Leaders Retreat.

Keep an eye out for several workshops and other retreat opportunities to come,” said Briones.

This is the beginning of a journey as leaders for many of the student attendees. This retreat has been promoted all throughout different departments on campus to get a wide variety of Seawolves from different backgrounds. Student Involvement will also continue to create a welcoming environment for students and staff.

“I want students to feel like they have a purpose and a sense of belonging at Sonoma State University,” said Briones.

If Seawolves are looking to get involved and want to sign up for this retreat, applications are still open on Seawolf Living and they will continue to take students on a first come first serve basis.

Student Life 9

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Strenghten your soul at the Spirituality Fair CHRISTY CHEW

STAFF WRITER

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ransitoing through life can be difficult, but having a spiritual hand as a guide can make it easier, and that’s where the Seawolf Spirituality Fair comes into play. On Sept. 18 at 11:30am-1:00pm, the Seawolf Plaza will be inviting students to coexist and feel comfortable with their beliefs. Join the fun and seek the range of opportunities this community has to offer.

“I am excited to bring this event back after 10 years, and be the beginning of other opportunities for the community to explore ways to find peace, comfort, friendship, and fellowship,” said Director of Student Involvement Mo Phillips.

Open to all students, this occasion is provided to help guide those who seek to find a place to practice their beliefs and ideals, in a comfortable manner. This event wants people to build connections within spiritual wellness, with the help of spiritual clubs and organizations that are within our community. With 16 organizations and counting, these groups are excited to show students the opportunities they have to offer.

Organizations of all kinds will be tabling and sharing more information about what they are all about. These organizations range from places of worship, spiritual healing, and yoga, to even a new group forming on campus for people in recovery. However, it will mainly be for students to explore the opportunities that relate to spirituality around campus. Tables with crafts related to positivity and spirituality will also be at this event, to give students a chance to decompress in stress free activities.

“Embracing spiritual growth can leave students as caring, more globally aware, and more committed to social justice than previous generations, and becoming enabled to respond well to our society and finding the meaning throughout the hardships and stress,” said Phillips.

The Spirituality Fair wants to give students all the tools they need to benefit from spirituality wellness, and learn new opportunities they may have not known about at Sonoma State. Our community wants to provide students with organizations to connect to something bigger than ourselves, and have them bond on a common basis.

As stated on the Sonoma State website, research shows that finding a space where students can create a spiritual support network is vital, especially during times of transition. Spirituality is about someone’s relationship with the transcendent questions that confront one as a human, and this event wants students to find that connection as well as learn from others. This kind of support can benefit a person’s transition through life, by helping cope with situations in a more effective manner.

“Embracing spiritual wellness helps you gain connections and learn new things, which I think is very important for students to learn as they grow throughout their life,” said junior Tyler Chase.

This event can mean a few things to students, whether it’s finding a place of worship or fellowship that is faith based, finding programs for peace and comfort, or feeling grounded with people as a support system. It can also become a chance to gain new relationships, and embark on a new spiritual journey for the better.

Experienced guides and mentors that will be there to answer any questions students may have during this fair, and a chance to get a perspective about what each organization entails. They will also have the chance to ask questions and learn about all the other organizations to help find a place that means the most to them spiritually. This will let students decide and begin to diverge in whichever spiritual pace they desire, with the help of The Spirituality Fair.

Come learn, explore, and enjoy what this spirituality fair has to offer. Sonoma State wants to invite its students to join this fair, and see what opportunities are available on campus as well as within the community. Building networks and expanding spiritual ideology in an inviting manner is what this fair entails, and students will be welcome with opened arms. The Spirituality Fair is a safe place students can embrace a more holistic side.

“We all need a lift sometimes, and finding real connections and sharing experiences can bring that to folks,” said Phillips.

Students go to the spirituality fair to meet with groups of like-minded individuals.

COURTESY// Sonoma State University

Explore nature with the Outdoor Resource Center MIA POLLAK

STAFF WRITER

S

onoma State University’s Campus Recreational Center is commonly known for their weight room, basketball court, and table tennis but what some may not know is that the Recreational Center also offers experiences for students outside of Sonoma State’s campus. This is where the Outdoor Resource Center comes in.

When entering the Campus Recreation Center, veer left to for the Outdoor Resource Center. The Outdoor Resource Center oversees four areas of the Campus Recreation Center: the rock wall, the challenge course, the outdoor pursuits trips, and a bike shop & outdoor resource center, where equipment such as tents and sleeping bags can be rented.

The Outdoor Resource Center’s goal this year is to educate students on respecting the outdoors.

Workshops are being put in place to teach students the different tools they need before embarking on adventures.

“This term we are having five workshops. The first one is Leave No Trace, this is a seven rule principle that all land agencies follow. It is essentially about leaving a space better than you found it and not increasing impact when we are outside. You are expected to follow these rules when you are on state and federal land” said Reed Mathieson, Sonoma State’s Outdoor Coordinator.

The first workshop, Leave No Trace, is scheduled to be on Sept. 19th at 7 p.m.. The workshop will be taught by the Outdoor Resource Center’s Michelle Villasenor.

“This is the first year we have done workshops here,” said Villasenor. “We are really trying to get the educational aspect of the Outdoor Resource Center into our community. I feel like a lot of people use our resources and go on trips and we want these people to leave the land better than how they found it.”

The workshops that are being held in tandem with the department’s Outdoor Pursuits trips. These trips offer students the opportunity to backpack, camp, hike, kayak, and much more at destinations for a discounted price. The idea is that these workshops will help students learn how to respect nature and get them more interested and excited to go on these trips. Some trips set for the coming semester are: an ocean clean up at Muir Beach, snow camping

COURTESY// Sonoma State University The Outdoor Resource Center aims to educate students about the natural world around them. in Mount Shasta, a day hike at Armstrong Redwoods, and bioluminescent kayaking in Tomales Bay. All of which are available to all students to sign up for.

Brent Tovren, an employee at the Outdoor Resource Center, explained that most of the time, items that are checked out will come back in great condition. The times that they are not, are typically due to students not being educated on how to properly take care of the gear. The workshops being incorporated this semester will provide students with the information on how to take care of the gear and the environment around them.

The workshops vary in what they will be teaching students.

“We also have a workshop about camp hygiene.

It’s about pooping in the woods and making sure you don’t get other people sick while you are cooking and a lot of other regulations on where and when we do our business in regards to water sources, trails and all sorts of things in campsites,” said Mathieson.

There are also workshops coming up on bike

maintenance where the Outdoor Resource Center will teach how to maintain a bike that way it will not need to go to the shop. As well as how to pack a backpack.

“It is very simple but can help reduce strain on your back and is a good opportunity for students to bring things they would bring on a backpacking trip and see if they are actually necessary items. When going on long trips, people tend to over pack with things that are not needed,” said Mathieson.

These tips will reduce neck and back strains and allow for a more enjoyable experience in the outdoors.

The last workshop is the basics of camping for beginners. This will include how to pick a campsite, how to tie simple knots, and calorie counting to make sure you have a successful tip.

The Outdoor Resource Center is excited to have these new workshops added into their programs and looks forward to teaching students about how they can do their part for the world around them. This will be a great resource on campus for all students to attend that want to learn more.

10 Sports Seawolves men’s soccer takes hard loss against Dominican

SEPT.17 - SEPT. 23, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

COURTESY // Facebook Sonoma State soccer put their game faces on.

OLIVIA VERBECK STAFF WRITER

In the spring of last year, the Seawolvess played Domincan University, with the Seawolves coming on top with a 6-0 win. Five months later, the Sonoma State took an unfortunate loss on Sept. 11 with a score of 2-1.

The game started off strong with both teams putting pressure on one another. Early in the game, number 8 Sahr Mattia dripped down the middle, chiping it over the Penguins defensive line to forward, Sebastian Santos for the shot. The Penguins keeper was there for the save.

In the eighth minute of the game, the Penguins started pressing harder on the Seawolves defense. Outside back, Evan Roehrig, was putting pressure on attacking player, Arturo Carrillo Contrera. Contrera, out of anger, went up to Roehrig, who did not have possession of the ball, and pushed him to the ground, causing him to receive a yellow card.

Throughout the first half, Sonoma had most of the possession of the center of the field. The Seawolves were able to move around the Penguin’s midfield and get the ball to the attacking players.

Unfortunately, the Seawolves could not finish on goal. At half time, the score was 0-0. Sonoma out-shot Dominican by 8-3.

Last Season, CCAA ranked Sonoma State to finish in eighth place out of twelve teams. This season, the Seawolves are ranked to place sixth in league. Captain Evan Roehrig said “Last season could have been drastically different with a couple of goals in key games, but the ball just didn’t bounce our way.” He believes that this season will be different. He continued by saying “ Having guys like Sahr Mattia, Sean Rohane, and Kyle Owings will help our defensive depth a lot… we are starting to mature and gain some experience with this younger group.”

As the second half started, Dominican pressed hard on the Seawolves defense.

Within five minutes of the half, Senior Arturo Carrillo Contrera scored off a free kick, assisted by Senior Luke Raley.

In the fifty-third minute, Seawolves’ defender Salvador Gomez- Avila received a yellow card just outside the eighteen yard box. The Penguins missed the shot and the possession returned to the Seawolves.

Within the same minute, number 17 Eduardo Rodriguez gives the ball to midfielder Ulysses Vega who then scores, making the game tied.

This was Vega’s first goal of the season. After tying the game up, Vega said “I was happy for the team.” He continued by saying, “I felt that once the first goal came, that the others were just going to follow.”

The game became more aggressive with the pressure from both sides of the field.

The referee let them play, but called fouls when necessary.

In the seventy-second minute, forward Sebastian Santos dropped all the way back to the Seawolves penalty box. He went in for the attack, but the Referee called the foul on Santos, making it a penalty kick for the Penguins.

Number 9, Luke Raley took the kick for the Penguins. The kick went to the right off the goal, slipping past keeper, Derik Engebretsen, making the score 2-1.

In the seventy-first minute, Senior Devin Anderson passed the ball up to the midfielders. Luke Raley from Dominican slid into Anderson causing Raley to receive a yellow card.

Within the next ten minutes, the game was back and forth with possession. Sophomore Ulysses Vega, was defending in midfield, where he attacked hard and received a yellow card.

The final score was 2-1, resulting in a hard loss of the Seawolves. Head Coach, Marcus Ziemer, told the Sonoma Seawolves sports page “We have a good team, but we need to figure it out quickly. Our Schedule only gets more difficult from here on.

I believe in our guys and with some hard work we will get it straight.”

Seawolves women’s soccer takes loss against Western Washington

COURTESY // Sonomasealwolves.com Women’s soccer pre-game huddle.

NATALYA SWENSEN STAFF WRITER

Sonoma State women’s soccer team suffered a close loss in an away game on Thursday Sept. 12 against Western Washington University. The game came to an end with a final score of 1-0.

The game started off quick and with lots of energy from both sides. It was obvious that both teams came out aggressive and ready to play. Within the first nine minutes of the game 5 fouls were created.

Senior on the team, Sarah Lindborg was substituted into the game shortly after it had begun. In the first half she got two fouls and gave one impressive shot.

Despite the aggressive plays being made out on the field, both teams struggled to score. During halftime the score was still 0-0 and each team got into a huddle to prepare for the second half. The Seawolves were going to have to come out with a new plan of attack to score against Western Washington’s defense.

Although there were poor weather conditions, the crowd kept up their spirits and cheered on the players.

Captain Riley West, defender and number 14, had an impressive shot in the first half and one foul in the second.

Despite the loss, West came out of the game with a positive attitude. “We played really well as a team and fought for every minute of the game. We had some really good chances at the goal as well as some great pieces of defending.” When talking about the opposing team West said, “They were an even match and we hope

to see them again at the end of the season.”

Sonoma State seemed defensively sound throughout the game. In the end it was their offense that came up short. Overall Sonoma State had 3 shots on the goal while Western Washington had 10.

The close game came to an end when number 26, Jenna Killman, scored for Western Washington with an assist by number 8, Libby Hielkema. The shot was made with just 30 seconds left in the game.

Midfielder, number 9 Julia Pritchard commented, “I’m really proud of how hard we fought, especially during the unfortunate weather conditions. We played a good team and I’m happy with the energy we had throughout the game and the will to not give up.”

Kamryn Haiber, number 13, kept a positive outlook on the game despite the end score. Haiber said, “I was really proud of how we played against Western Washington. The goal was unfortunate, but the defense came up with some great blocks and our keeper had great saves throughout the game.” She continued her statement when she said, “Hopefully we get to see them again in post-season because I think we all know that the next game is ours.”

Both teams gave it their all during this game and the Sonoma State Women’s team are preparing for more games to come. The next home-game for the women’s team will be on Sept. 27 at 4:00 p.m.

Sports 11

SEPT. 17 - SEPT.23, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

Men’s soccer takes the victory against Concordia-Portland

OLIVIA VERBECK STAFF WRITER

After a hard loss on Sept. 11 against Dominican University, Sonoma State men’s soccer came back with a win against Concordia-Portland on Sept. 14, with a final score of 3-2.

The game started off as Sonoma State pressed hard on Concordia’s defense. Within the first minutes of the game, number 24, Oliver Ziemer scored a goal with an assist coming from number 8, Sahr Mattia.

Sonoma was determined to win this game. Forward, Zane Stromberg said, “we were focused when we walked out onto the pitch and we started the game very sharp.”

Sonoma held possession of the ball as it was passed from the midfield to the defensive line, then back out the midfielders to gain attacking momentum.

Sonoma had many opportunities to score. In the fourteenth minute, sophomore Eduardo Rodriguez shot in the top right corner, but the Cavaliers goalkeeper, Kenneth Symmes had the save.

Nineteen minutes into the first half, freshman, Kyle Dearborn shot in the lower left corner of the Seawolves goal, just slipping past Derik Engebretsen’s fingers, making the score 1-1.

Sonoma continued dominating the midfield as defender Evan Roehrig carried the ball up the field for a shot in the lower left corner, but Symmes was there for the save once again.

Both teams were aggressive on and off the ball.

Within minutes of each other, each team started fouling Seawolves move into enemy territory . and receiving free kicks.

In the thirty-fifth minute, forward, Zane Strom- play. He said “I had somewhat of a killer mindberg was substituted in for Sahr Mattia. In the thirty-sixth set in that I was going to get forward and creminute, Sonoma received a free kick. Defender Evan Roeh- ate chances.” He followed up by saying “after the rig took the kick and passed it to Devin Anderson. An- goal, my mentality didn’t really change but got derson then slipped the ball in between the defenders to more focused and tuned in to getting involved Stromberg, who shot it in the lower left corner, gaining the and creating more.” lead against Concordia.

Sonoma continued to out shoot Concor The first half came to an end, with the score being dia with a 4-2 shootout. Both teams started to 2-1. The Seawolves outshot the Cavaliers, with 8 shots for change their lineups and substituting players in the Seawolves and 2 shots for the Cavaliers. and out.

Sonoma pressed hard on Concordia’s defense as In the fifty-eighth minute, Sean Rohane the second half started. Concordia received a corner kick was defending Concordia when the referee called three minutes into the half, but Sonoma blocked and got it a foul on Rohane. The referee gave Rohane a yelout of their half. low card, giving Concordia a free kick.

In the forty-eighth minute, Sonoma received a Minutes later, the Cavalier’s defender Lewis freekick. The ball was given out to Senior Salvador Go- Coates also received a yellow card but the game mez-Avila who then crossed it in to Freshman Sean Rohane played, not giving Sonoma a free kick. for a header goal in the bottom right corner.

In the seventieth minute, Sonoma State de Going into the game, Sean Rohane was ready to fender, Devin Anderson went against forward

COURTESY // Sonomaseawolves.com

Nicholas Denley in the Seawolves box. Anderson received a yellow card, giving the Cavaliers a penalty kick and scoring a goal.

In the Seventy-second minute, number 8, Sahr Mattia went in for the attack. Mattia and the Cavalier’s defender went up for the ball, but Mattia went studs up and received a red card.

The last fifteen minutes of the game became very intense with both teams sending long balls from the defense to the forwards to try to score.

The Seawovles were trying to score to make a bigger gap, while the Cavaliers were trying to tie it up.

The game came to an end, with the Seawolves coming out on top with a 3-2 victory. Coach Marcus Ziemer said “ We really needed that win today.

Our Depth paid off. We have 4-5 regular players that have been injured so we tried to rest them today so they can get completely healed up.”

Sonoma Snow Club invites all snow lovers to join the team JOSEPH OWEN STAFF WRITER

Snowboarding, skiing, camping, and having fun are what being apart of the Sonoma Snow Club entails. To anyone thinking about joining snow club, you don’t need to be good at boarding or skiing to join. A love for the outdoors and an adventurous spirit is all one needs to join the club.

The Sonoma Snow Club has approximately 80 members.

They have events throughout the school year that consist of going to the snow in Lake Tahoe and going camping at Sonoma Lake. The club also holds dances and get togethers with Greek Life and other clubs throughout campus. For instance, a very popular event the snow club puts on is a formal dance called, “A Winter Night in Aspen.”

Katelyn Darcy, an officer of the Sonoma Snow Club and amateur snowboarder is very excited for the club to start up again this semester. “We’re most excited about all the cool new people that are signing up this year and we can’t wait to meet them!” Darcy continued her statement when she said, “The coolest part about snow club is that you don’t have to have experience with snowboarding or skiing, when I joined I had never tried it, but was still so welcomed by everyone and accepted.”

Snowboarding and skiing is something that one either picks up quickly or takes an average amount of time to get the hang of. The sport involves balance, control, and speed which can become quite dangerous without the proper technique and training. Luckily, the snow club has very experienced athletes that can offer advice and assistance on the slopes. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about the Sonoma Snow Club having you go down a Black Diamond as a beginner.

If snowboarding and skiing is not for you, then enjoy the snow; whether you like sledding, playing sloshball, or building a snowman there is always something fun to do in the icy terrain.

Although it’s called the Sonoma Snow Club, they do much more than go to the snow. Camping at Lake Sonoma is many of the members favorite event. Just going out in the outdoors and hanging out with friends is something everyone looks forward to throughout the semester. If you are not interested in camping or the snow, the club still encourages students to come out to the dances and events.

Emily Halsebo, a junior and Communications major has loved being in the Sonoma Snow Club for the past couple of years. “Snow Club is really just for fun, chill people to get together and enjoy the outdoors, it’s not just for people

COURTESY // Instagram Snow club cheers to a new year. who snowboard and ski, it’s just for everyone.” Halsebo continues by talking about the camping trip, “I’m definitely most excited for the camping trip. It’s great to go out and hang with so many people and you always end up meeting new friends. This year they’re really pulling out all the stops to make it an awesome year full of activities.”

To say the least, the Snow Club plans on creating some of the most fun, exciting events on campus. They want to create events for the outdoor lovers of Sonoma State, to get away from technology, homework, and the stressors of life just for a night at least. They are an extremely inclusive group that blossom positive vibes and quality experiences to any

student who wants to join.

President of the Sonoma Snow Club, Lauren Bracken, said the club’s motto is, “Everyone is a member of snow club.” she continued by stating “You don’t need to pay a membership fee or sign a paper to hangout with us. I like to think we are the most inclusive club on campus. We just love to hangout, snowboard, ski, go camping, and meet new beautiful faces.”

The Club meets every other Thursday at 7 p.m. at Mountain Mike’s Pizza. Events are planned on their Instagram page and you can find them tabling out in front of the student center. A camping trip is planned for October 4th to the 5th for $20.

Any questions can be directed towards their email sonomasnowclub@gmail.com.

12 Photo

SEPT. 17 - SEPT. 23, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Pops on the Lawn livens campus with a wind ensemble

STAR // Jacob Loher Andy Collinsworth (right) motions towards the SSU Wind Ensemble as he conducts Pops on the Lawn on Friday.

STAR // Jacob Loher Clarinet and saxophone players perform at Pops on the Lawn.

STAR // Jacob Loher Andy Collinsworth (middle) directs the SSU Wind Ensemble.

STAR // Taylor Clarks Pamela Barrera-Barroso (left) and Andrea Jimenez (right) pass out flyers and candy during the multicultural fair in Seawolf Plaza

STAR //Genesis Botello Mikayla Martin, a fourth year GEP major, reads for her English class with a glass of champagne.

STAR // Taylor Clarks Junior Manu Lopez sifts through Student Involvement brochures as she pases them out.

STAR //Genesis Botello Janet Rodriguez, a third year Photography and Environmental Science major, eats sushi while she studies in the Wine Spectator Learning Center.