Volume 83 // Issue 5

IN THIS ISSUE

Student Life

Check out a student spotlight on Madi Hayes on PAGE 8.

Arts & Entertainment

News

Check out the K&L Bistro Review on PAGE 6.

Read about the new art gallery in the library on PAGE 4.

SINCE 1979

VOLUME 83 // ISSUE 5 SEPTEMBER 24 - SEPTEMEBR 30, 2019

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

@SONOMASTATESTAR

PG&E considers shutting down power to Sonoma County

DOUG TRUMM

STAFF WRITER

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ollowing 2017’s Tubbs fire, PG&E is now considering shutting off power to over 120 thousand customers in Northern California.

Napa and Sonoma county are two of the largest areas that are potentially affected by this shutdown. Authorities at PG&E claim that “hot, dry, and windy” weather conditions are currently being monitored, and that blackouts starting on Monday this week are possible. The current conditions of this week’s weather are enough for a small electrical fire to create a disaster.

The monitoring continued throughout this past weekend, with PG&E notifying the public on the 21st. The first official statement from spokesperson Brandi Merlo via Twitter claimed that risks in parts of “Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sutter, and Yuba” counties were possible. On Sunday evening, this was extended further to include Napa and Sonoma Counties. On Monday night, elevated monitoring by the National Weather Service will begin, as temperatures are expected to rise on Tuesday and Wednesday.

According to CBS SF, over 30,000 customers in these two counties alone would be affected by the shutdowns.

This means that both homes and

businesses could be forced to go without grid power. Many residents and business owners in local counties expressed their concerns about losing power. Businesses that depend on refrigeration and computer systems are most affected by blackouts, resulting in lost sales and potentially even lost product. Christina Pheffer, in an interview with KCRA, mentioned that “it would be a very big hardship” to have to operate her restaurant South Pine Cafe without refrigeration. Other local business owners mentioned full closure of their shops being necessary during the power-out, particularly those with credit card systems. Homeowners are also divided over the issue. Many support PG&E’s decision and are willing to live without power to avoid the risk. On the other hand, some see the shutdown as unnecessary.

According to The Press Democrat, PG&E has already issued one mandatory shutdown on June 8 of this year, with over 21,000 customers being affected. This week’s potential shutdown could prove to be a much larger scale operation, with more than 5 times the amount of customers being affected, and for 48 hours or more.

Both the June 8 shutdown and this week’s situation are caused by the

summer heat and lack of rain, which results in so-called “fire season” conditions. Although Napa and Sonoma county experienced light rain several days ago, the vegetation in the surrounding areas is still dry enough to be volatile.

Along with PG&E, local authorities are also making preparations for this week. Paul Lowenthal of the Santa Rosa Fire Department said in an interview with CBS that local crews are on high alert, ready to “respond with more crews than in the past”.

PG&E asks all residents to begin preparing for a 48 hour shutdown, and to be ready by Monday night.

This includes ensuring that water and food are stocked, and it is suggested that portable lamps and lights are recharged before the shutdown occurs.

Additionally, PG&E recommends you keep cash on you and a full tank of fuel in case an evacuation is necessary.

PG&E also has a system known as the “Medical Baseline Program”designed to help those who have medical equipment and depend on main power.

It is also necessary that these customers STAR // Jacob Loher ensure backup power is set up before PG&E Truck in Windsor. the outages.

Alumni creates plant-based chicken nuggets CHELSEA PINKHAM STAFF WRITER

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hristie Lagally, a Sonoma State University graduate, is the mastermind behind a growing company dedicated to one thing: creating “chicken” nuggets without the chicken. Rebellyous Foods, which was founded in 2017, is now a rapidly growing company that has successfully placed its products in hospitals, restaurants, schools, cafeterias and more. An ex-Boeing engineer and former senior scientist at a plant-based food think tank, Lagally has now dedicated her career to revolutionizing the food industry.

While some extremely popular meatless products like the Impossible Burger and the Beyond Burger are rapidly making their way into mainstream eating, Rebellyous Foods is quite possibly the only company dedicated entirely to creating chicken substitutes. “Not only is the scale of the chicken industry hurting animals and the environment, chicken production is rife with workers’ rights abuses and creates

impossible situations for farmers who have to conform to industry standards or go hungry,” Lagally explains, “Factory farming as we know it today began in the chicken industry, so there’s something poetic about beginning our work with plant-based chicken.” Lagally says that her love of animals, passion for sustainability, and determination to fight climate change led her to pursue this idea.

Rebellyous Foods also focuses on making plant-based meat alternatives more affordable to the average workingclass American, recognizing that some of these products have a reputation for being expensive. “We believe plant-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

COURTESY// Christie Lagally Former Sonoma State student Christie Lagally has created a plant based food company, specializing in meatless “chicken.”

Local father and his 13 month-old son dead TRAVIS GILLMORE STAFF WRITER

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29-year-old local Santa Rosa man, Patrick O’Neill, was found unresponsive lying next to his 13 month-old son on Saturday, Sept. 14 in a back bedroom of a house on Derek Lane. Despite the heroic efforts of emergency personnel, the child was pronounced dead at the scene.

Family friend Michael Arevalo, 39, told the San Francisco Chronicle that “the toddler likely died after accidentally ingesting the fentanyl that O’Neill had consumed before overdosing.”

Paramedics transported the father to a local hospital, and detectives were waiting for his medical condition to clear before charging him with child endangerment and the murder of his infant son. On Saturday, however, the investigation took a new turn, as Oneill, facing life-threatening injuries, passed away as a result of a drug overdose.

According to the Chronicle, O’Neill was taken off life support on Monday, Sept. 16. Friends and family reported his death on Facebook Monday night, and Santa Rosa police confirmed the fact Tuesday morning.

Demian O’Neill, Patrick’s father, told the Santa Rosa Press Democrat that toxicology reports indicated that Patrick “died of liver failure apparently caused by a fentanyl overdose.”

Drug paraphernalia was located near the bodies, and while investigators have yet to release details, toxicology results reveal the presence of fentanyl in both father and son. Investigators now want to know who sold Patrick the fentanyl, and detectives are actively working to eradicate illegal opioids in Sonoma County.

Patrick was battling addiction, and recent efforts to get clean led friends and family to believe that he was getting the help he needed. The relapse and deaths caught many by surprise, and friends remember Patrick as a compassionate father that loved his son.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “every day, more than 130 people in the United States die after overdosing on opioids... and in 2017, 47,000 Americans died as the result of opioid overdose.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention documents the fact that fentanyl is a synthetic opioid at the center of the nation’s addiction crisis, and it “is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.”

Fentanyl has been blamed for thousands of deaths across the country, and the CDC reports that most overdoses are the result of illegally made fentanyl that is mixed into heroin and cocaine products in

order to maximize profits.

Consumers purchasing illicit drugs are generally unaware of the mixture, and this can cause unintended overdoses. The nation experienced a spike in synthetic opioid deaths, jumping 47% from 2016-17, and seizures increased nearly seven fold from 2012-14, according to the National Forensic Laboratory Information System.

While the War on Drugs has consumed billions of dollars and imprisoned millions since its inception in the 1970s, today we are facing a public health crisis the likes of which the country has never known. Increasing and enforcing penalties for drug users has proven to be a dead-end road. Addiction is a mental health issue that is devastating families and causing unnecessary hardships across all walks of life.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, know that help is available. Sonoma County offers detox services at the Turning Point Orenda Detox Center, contracted through the Drug Abuse Alternatives Center. The program provides 24-hour support, alcohol and drug education, and relapse prevention education. For more information, call (707) 565-7460.

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.

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

How Sonoma State is combatting rape culture

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s reported rapes have been increasing exponentially across the United States, new programs at Sonoma State have been started to raise awareness as well as teach women and men what to do to avoid being sexually preyed on. According to a new study, more than 3.3 million American women between the ages 18 and 44 reported being raped the first time they had sex. That is an insane number that screams for something to be done.

Sonoma State University has done their best in bringing awareness with programs such as “It’s a Guy Thing,” “March for Consent” and there always is the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination, formally known as Title IX. “It’s a Guy Thing” is a new approach at preventing sexual assault where all genders are welcome and casual conversation about what it is like to be a man. There has only been one meeting thus far for the group, but it was a success. Junior Oscar Urbina said, “I want to make sure all guys, including myself, are held accountable for all of our actions and follow through with our responsibilities, this event seems like a perfect place to talk about it.” The “March for Consent” is similar to the other ways to spread awareness about sexual assault, but is the first time it has happened here at Sonoma State.

Measures are being taken

to improve this campus-wide issue, but much more work is still ahead.

As the Sonoma State administration is doing a good job trying to keep the campus as safe as possible, one aspect the school that has continually neglected is the lack of proper lighting around the entire campus. Around the most populated parts of campus lighting is not an issue, but near the lakes and by the athletic fields there is a complete absence of illumination. The lighting problem has already come back to bite the university early in this semester, as there was a reported rape by the lakes late at night on Sept. 5. Lighting does not always stop crime, but having a well-lit area causes people to worry more about getting caught and may persuade them to not commit the crime.

Another seemingly easy solution is to increase the number of Emergency Call boxes.

Sonoma State has some around campus in the main areas, but there are few in the fringe areas surrounding the campus .

When using the Emergency Call Boxes, the call will go directly to the camps Police Station and will give the police the location of where the call came from. Some universities have upwards of 100 while Sonoma State has 35. Adding more Emergency call boxes would be a little expensive, but everybody would agree losing the 600 dollars it costs to in-

stall one in is less important than allowing another person to be sexually assaulted.

“I CAN HELP” is another new program, but the school is planning on many more over the next two years. Campuswide bystander intervention training will begin in the coming years, along with a revamped health center.

During next semester there will be enhanced safety training for members in greek life. Numerous studies have shown that men are three times more likely to rape if they are in a fraternity and women in sororities are 74 percent more likely to be raped. Developing new and improved training for greek life members is a great way to try and prevent sexual assaults from occurring.

Sonoma State also plans on sending out a Safety Service Newsletter every week or so.

Plans are in place for the future, but people who have been sexually assaulted will say the plans should have been in place years ago.

A former Sonoma State student who had been sexually assaulted said, “Consent is nothing.” She hopes universities not only teach women how to defend themselves but go to the root of the problem and show the men not to rape. That does not seem entirely possible, but getting to the heart of the problem is always the best way to prevent it from happening again.

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.

Got Tips?

The STAR wants to encourage anyone with news tips to email sonomastatestar@gmail.com

Corrections/Clarifications The STAR values accuracy and works diligently to check facts before publication. However, if inaccuracies occur, we want to know. Please report errors to the editor at star@sonoma.edu.

Publication The STAR is published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters. Printing is done by Sonoma Media Group. The weekly publication of the STAR is made possible by Instructionally Related Activities Funding.

Opinions

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

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

Your Art Here The STAR is looking for an editorial cartoonist.

Email star@sonoma.edu for more information.

Opinion 3

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Abortion pill makes its way to California universities

MADDIE LAM STAFF WRITER

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n Sept. 14, California lawmakers passed a bill that requires public universities to offer the abortion pill for students at on-campus health centers and clinics. According to the Sacramento Bee, the state Senate approved the bill on a 28-11 vote, and the next step is for Gov. Gavin Newsom to decide if he will sign it into law within the next month. If the bill is passed by Newsom, it will take effect at universities in January of 2023.

According to the Guttmacher In-

stitute’s Unintended Pregnancy in the U.S. study, “the unintended pregnancy rate is significantly higher in the U.S. than in many other developed countries.” In 2011, there were 45 unintended pregnancies for every 1,000 women aged 15-44 in the U.S., and 42% of those unintended pregnancies (excluding miscarriages), ended in abortion.

“Publicly funded family services help women avoid pregnancies they do not want, and plan pregnancies they do want.

In 2014, these services helped women avoid two million unintended pregnancies, which would likely have resulted in 900,000 births and nearly 700,000 abortions.”

Because of anti-abortion politicians in the Trump administration and in Congress, legal and safe aobrtions offered at public health care programs such as Planned Parenthood are being defunded in certain clinics across the nation.

Defunding Planned Parenthood only proved that the Trump administration does not believe in the equal individual rights of every human, and only furthers their be-

Border wall to bury Native American history

liefs that women do not have the right to make choices for their own body.

Bringing the abortion pill to universities can help many students make a safe decision and seek professional help at a clinic.

Young women in their college years are practicing sex, and 17 out of 1000 of them experience unwanted pregnancy.

The “abortion pill” is known as mifepristone and misoprostol; mifepristone stops the pregnancy from growing, and misoprostol empties the uterus. Women who take this medication will experience cramping and bleeding, but it subsides from 24-48 hours. Many people report that the medication feels like having an early miscarriage. But the abortion pill is more than 90% effective at terminating pregnancy and less invasive compared to other abortion procedures.

Offering the abortion pill to students can help many women who are not ready to have children. It is common that most people don’t want children because of student debt, how expensive the cost of living is today, and climate change.

State Sen. Connie Leyva stated that

Banned Books Week raises questions among parents

SALVADOR FERNANDEZ STAFF WRITER

LELA PERIVOLARIS

STAFF WRITER

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ixty percent of Americans oppose the expansion of the U.S. and Mexico border wall according to an early 2019 Gallup poll, and yet President Trump remains determined to accelerate construction even at the expense of the destruction of 22 archeological sites within the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Arizona.

The efforts are a result of Trump’s pledge to secure the border in a bid for re-election in 2020. Earlier this year, the president declared a national immigration emergency upon being denied by Congress to financially back the project. Since 1976, according to the Los Angeles Times, national emergency authority has been exercised 58 times prior -- and only twice did it involve obtaining funds (once in 1990 during the Iraq war, and once after the 2001 terrorist attacks).

From the same article published in February of this year, they noted that “administration officials also declined to say where new barriers would be erected or rebuilt or how many new miles of barriers would actually be added to the fences that currently exist” for reasons now evident.

A 123-page National Park Service report, accessed by the Washington Post through the Freedom of Information Act reveals that the 30 foot steel wall conversion will impede upon around 12 Native American tribes and numerous endangered species native to the region, from cacti to mud turtles.

The NPS investigation finds that over 16,000 years of archeological findings lay in the national monument, including “stone tools, ceramic shards, and other pre-Columbian artifacts are extremely well-preserved in the arid environment.” Quitobaquito Springs, an oasis that intersects the border, was once a section of the Old Salt Trail, a prehistoric trade route used by ancient cultures to acquire salt, obsidian, and seashells from salt beds in Sonora, Mexico, as described by the NPS website. The area was proclaimed the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1937.

Environmental activists have advised against construction as it holds the potential to “negatively impact animal migration and make it more difficult for wildlife to access the few water sources available in the desert,” Newsweek says. The upgraded wall is projected to have lighting, a matte black finish, and sharp points.

Researchers have found that some of the archeological sites have already been damaged by all-terrain vehicles piloted by Border Patrol agents, therefore the area may not have the capacity to handle earth-moving equipment and other heavy machinery. In addition, if construction crews pump groundwater, there is a possibility it may dry up the springs.

What’s more alarming is that the Trump administration “has waived procedural safeguards and impact studies, citing national security concerns.” Through the Department of Homeland Security, the Archeological Resources Protection Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, and the Endangered Species Act have no bearing on the wall expansion. Also according to the Post, it’s said that Trump has assured officials that they would be pardoned for completing any orders that could be deemed “illegal or unworkable.”

Trump’s wall will desecrate the surrounding environment and thousands of years of Native American culture -- which holds no significance to his administration compared to the opportunity to waste resources to uphold a promise that a majority opposes.

“access to abortion drugs at campus health clinics would prevent students from having to choose between delaying important medical care or having to travel long distances or miss classes or work.”

Many students provide for themselves, and not everyone has health insurance or access to clinics that can offer the abortion pill. By having this option ready on campus, women have an option to turn to in the case of an unintended pregnancy. This provides students with the comfort that their right to choose is protected by their university.

We are facing an administration that is attempting to roll back on women’s health care and reproductive health care, and California is setting the example that every individual, especially women, have the right to choose and have access to health care.

It is scary for women. today because it feels like our basic reproductive rights are being stripped away. Not only is California setting an example, but it gives hope to women that someone is still fighting alongside them and their rights to choose for themselves.

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hildren as they grow are exposed to all sorts of material in books; material in the eyes of parents that could potentially damage their child or benefit them.

Swearing, sexual content, or even mention of magic or fantasy are reasons why parents and teachers alike feel the need to ban books.

Mentions of certain lifestyles such as drug use, gang affiliations, and crime can make books be banned or censored heavily.

Books with gay relationships or gay characters can easily be taken off of shelves. Words such as “God” and “Jesus” can be found offensive. Religious affiliations within books such as providing info on christianity or others, and the mention of witchcraft can be seen as satanic and inappropriate.

Political bias is something often banned as well.

The way books are considered banned are by being challenged.

Parents, administration, libraries, teachers, political or religious

groups and elected officials are the ones who challenge books. A challenge is just an attempt to remove/restrict certain books. From there it goes to the American Library Association (ALA). The ALA have been tracking challenged books since 1990. Just this past year, the ALA have recorded 483 books that have been challenged.

While the ALA have been dealing with the challenges of books, they have also found a way to fight back by bringing Banned Book Week. Banned Book Week is simply a week that gives families the opportunity to celebrate reading and to talk about censorship with their kids. It’s another form of fighting for freedom of expression. This year it’s Sept 22-28, which is now seen as an international effort to celebrate the freedom to read.

The parent of the child is still somewhat in control to the kind of material they see, however they can’t really restrict what they read. Everyone is entitled to express their views and opinions about books but they should not have the right to limit someone’s access to knowledge and information.

Melissa Scholes Young, a writer for the Washington Post said she wouldn’t censor any type of reading to her kids. “I’ve never censored their reading. I’d rather watch them stumble in their own reading discoveries than limit their exposure.”

If parents were so worried

about their kids being exposed to certain materials then they would also take their mobile phones, T.V., internet and videogames.

Literally all aspects of media contain some of the same reasons as to why books are banned. Taking care of a child is important, and letting them grow and be curious about certain topics is a must. Experiencing some of these topics can help children be more aware and accepting.

For example, a Catholic school in Tennessee banned a Harry Potter book for containing witchcraft. Pastor Dan Reehil said “the curses and spells used in the books are actual curses and spells, which when read by a human being risk conjuring evil spirits into the presence of the person reading the text.”

Some recent books that have been brought up to be challenged were the Twilight saga books as well as The Hunger Games books.

One for religious view and violence while the other contained sexually explicit content, violence and was also seen as unsuitable for certain age groups.

The big reasons why children should be reading banned books are that they can relate to the books on a personal level. Certain books have more to offer than just curse words.

A parent should not limit what their child reads or views.

Children are curious and tend to explore their own imagination, and they need to do so when it comes to reading.

Trump wants America great, not clean

LEAH MAGNUSON STAFF WRITER

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he fight between Trump and California continues.

President Trump announced that he will be revoking California’s Clean Air Act that has been in place since 1968, which allowed California to set higher air quality standards regarding emissions from motor vehicles than what is required by the federal government. Yes, our president is fighting for us to have dirtier air. His reasoning for this is for economic gain, and he states this will produce cheaper, safer cars for us to purchase.

Millions of people agree that climate change is a serious problem that needs to be addressed now, but our president is not among those people. Even major corporations have joined in the fight to help com-

bat climate change but instead of being praised for it they are being punished by our government. The LA Times stated, “Honda and three other carmakers (Ford, Volkswagen and BMW of North America), have agreed with California on a plan to raise average fleet mileage to 50 mpg by model year 2026. Instead of hailing the initiative as a worthy advance on the environmental front... the Trump administration has opened an antitrust investigation of the four companies...” It is shocking and disappointing that the man that is meant to be making America great again is doing everything in his power to destroy it.

California is a heavily populated and impacted state. We suffered from heavy smog and air pollution before the Clean Air Act was enacted in 1968. We as a state are working on improving or planet by setting an example for others to follow, and they have. The Hill stated that this revocation will impact the thirteen other states that follow the air quality standards that were set by California. Trump has said from the beginning of his term that he was going to do everything he could to revoke this waiver, and he finally succeeded.

California officials say that

Trump has no legal grounds to do this, and should plan to fight this in court. The Sacramento Bee posted a statement from California Governor Gavin Newsom who said, “California won’t ever wait for permission from Washington to protect the health and safety of children and families...we will fight this latest attempt and defend our clean car standards.” It is perplexing that the president is fighting against cleaner air and higher standards regarding air pollution. Trump has had it out for California since he was elected and fights against any positive legislation that he can get his little cheeto fingers on.

This is part of a never ending effort by Trump to undermine standards that have been put into place.

Instead of helping to reverse it, he continues to blatantly refuse to accept climate change.

He has attacked the rights of women, minorities, immigrants, as well as many others. Now he is attacking our right to breathe clean air, one of the most basic functions of life. California has and will continue to be one of the leaders in the fight against climate change and this will not deter us from our continued dedication to the wellbeing of our planet.

4 News

SEPT. 24- SEPT 30, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

Sonoma State opens new art gallery display in library CLARK FAHRENTHOLD STAFF WRITER

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onoma State University decided to make a new addition to their library art gallery for the 2019 Fall semester. It was announced that the new art exhibit would be a new multimedia display. That is intended to pay tribute to the 50th anniversary of the historic Stonewall Uprising and the effect it had upon future generations of LGBTQ+, and how it helped create a significant turning point in the modern gay rights movement, not only in the United States but around the rest of the world.

The multimedia art display is open to the public from Aug. 19 to Dec. 13 and is located on the second floor of the Schultz Library here at Sonoma State University. The display has been named “Queeries: Queer Artists & Identity.”Along with commemorating the Stonewall Riots, the art display is also intended to help celebrate the progress of queer and LGBTQ+ culture, and take a more in-depth look into gender and performance art.

The New multimedia exhibit will include contributions from many local and Bay Area artists that include names such as Jerome Caja, Jeffrey Cheung, and Jeremy Novy.

Along with these original works, the exhibit will also showcase print photos from the Queer Ancestors Project, which is devoted to helping create strong relations between the LGBTQ+ community and their ancestors.

Mary Wegmann, who is the head chairman of the Sonoma State Library Art Committee, said: “All of the artists participating in the exhibit are and continue to do great work.

Sonoma State is very excited to participate in a show celebrating queer identity on a college campus”.

Along with the new multimedia art project, Sonoma State also gave the green light on a new interactive walking tour here on

campus. Funding for the new walking tour was donated by the Jean and Charles Shultz foundation and the Sonoma State Department of Women’s and Gender studies.

For the project, Sonoma State joined forces with renowned Bay Area artist Seth Eisen.

Eisen, who specializes in making art that combines live performance and visual media/ art teamed up to work alongside Sonoma State University Professor Don Romesburg to create a “performative and interactive tour here at Sonoma State University.”

Professor Romesburg, who currently teaches an LGBTQ US history course, which is the first of its kind here at Sonoma State, said: “History education is all about training future citizens. By incorporating LGBT history into what our students learn, they’re really learning how to be better citizens for our diverse society in California”.

As well, Sonoma State University Provost Lisa Vollendorf showed her excitement for the new curriculum enhancement as she said: “Here At Sonoma State University we are proud to support the integration of the arts into the curriculum and with our campus programming.”

To many students at Sonoma State, the new art exhibit is one that has created a lot of buzz and excitement. Current Sonoma State Senior said “I think the new multimedia exhibit will be a great addition to the University for the fall. But even more than that I think that it will help a lot of the study body to become more/better informed about the LGBTQ community itself.”

Lewis also went on to say “I’m happy that Sonoma State has decided to make a strong effort to educate more people on LGBTQ history, as I think it’s really never something you ever have seen get covered in history classes.”

STAR // Jacob Loher Kody Kennedy is impressed with the artwork enclosed in the display case.

STAR// Jacob Loher James Alvarez thinks he has figured out what the meaning of the portrait is at the LGBTQ+ art exhibit.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Alumni creates plant-based chicken nuggets CHELSEA PINKHAM STAFF WRITER

based options should be available to everyone,” Lagally states, “no matter where you live or how big your paycheck is.”

Lagally believes that the rapidly rising plantbased meat industry will eventually become a strong competitor with conventional meat.

“Demand for plant-based meat is on a constant upward trajectory,” Lagally says, “In the same way that non-dairy milks have taken over the dairy aisle, plant-based options will eventually challenge animal options at the meat counter.”

While Lagally’s statements may have been laughed at a few decades ago, in today’s market, they may not be far fetched. Recent data shows that the retail market for plant-based foods is worth approximately $4.5 billion, with dollar sales growing by 31% in the past two years. Major fastfood chains including Del Taco, Subway, Burger

King and Carl’s Jr have recently launched plantbased meat options. Even Kentucky Fried Chicken has begun experimenting with meatless chicken trials--painting an entire location green for its launch in Atlanta, which attracted thousands of hungry customers and sold out in just five hours.

When Bill Gates tried Beyond Meat’s chicken strips, he described it on his blog as “a taste of the future of food”.

This new surge of demand for plant-based options comes at the same time that climate change awareness and activism is increasing rapidly around the world. Whether this is why more people are choosing to try plant-based meats is unclear, but the new trend is undoubtedly making an impact.

The United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recently released a report asking citizens to reduce their meat consumption, citing

domestic livestock as a major contributor to land, resource, and water use as well as greenhouse gas emissions. “Just about everyone wants to make choices that are consistent with their values,” Bruce Friedrich of the Good Food Institute stated in an interview with Food Tank, “so just about everyone supports sustainable farming practices, wants to lessen their adverse impact on the climate, and wants to see animals treated well. The solution is pretty simple--we just need to create and promote the companies that are making plant-based and clean alternatives to animal products a reality.”

Christie Lagally’s Rebellyous Foods is just one of many of these companies, and her enormous success might signal the future of the everchanging food industry.

News 5

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Global Climate Strike has Sonoma County Students skip School MOIRA RAFFERTY STAFF WRITER

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ast Friday, on Sept. 20, there were youth climate strikes held in Sebastopol and Santa Rosa to encourage more efforts to be made in sustaining a healthy climate.

“Keep that carbon in the soil, no more coal, no more oil.” was one of the chants many shouted whilst marching down Mendocino Avenue toward Downtown Santa Rosa.

Santa Rosa alone had a turnout rate of around 2,000 people actively voicing their concerns about climate change. Many were students, including students who decided to skip class in order to partake in this important matter.

Global strikes were going on all over Sonoma County, including in Sonoma and Petaluma, ranging from Manhattan to Melbourne last Friday.

Several Sebastopol High School students left class early Friday as well to be able to partake in the Global Youth Climate Strike, that took place in Sebastopol’s downtown plaza.

Ani Fowler and Anabelle Lampson of Orchard View School, along with Eleanor Jaffe from Alany and Ula Kamastrow from Summerfield School were the organizers of the Sebastopol strike.

“It’s our future that we’re going to be living in, and the choices that are made being right now will impact us in the future so we need to take a stand and do what is right for our own futures,” says Fowler to Sonoma West Times & News.

She also mentions how critical it is for our youth to become more engaged on the issue of climate change since future generations depend on it.

“The youth are standing internationally to protect our future and the future of this beautiful planet,” says organizer Anabelle Lampson to Sonoma West.

“We’re so grateful for all the energy and power that’s here today.”

The organizers were thrilled by the number of children who decided to leave school and partake in this event.

“We didn’t know there were going to be so many people,” said Kamastrow to Sonoma West, and that “It’s fantastic.”

Joy Ayodele, a first-year student at Santa Rosa Junior College, said that she feels “very passionately about this, considering I feel like this is being ignored by a lot of the older generation,” and that they “hope it will be really productive at least within our own peers and our own social group,” to the Press Democrat.

This does not mean that there weren’t any people of older generations to be accounted for; amongst the crowd of people at the Santa Rosa Strike, many were representing their kids of Generation X and baby boomers as well.

Another student named Francesca Kaszuba, 12, of Rohnert Park, pointed out to the Press Democrat the importance of how by having everyone put in a little effort it can go a long way when regarding environmental health.

“Right now, with climate change, we’re walking down a path of destruction.

The destruction that will be permanent in 10 years,” said Kaszuba, “... it’s crucial that we’re diligent to find different ways to feed ourselves and transport ourselves.”

The outcome of these events was better than expected, and just in time, right before the Climate Action Summit was held on Monday by the United Nations.

This does not only prove to them but also us as a global society how much we care about the world we enjoy and create memories in daily.

Ula Kamastrow tells Sonoma West, “We’re the next generation of voters and farmers and politicians and workers,” she said. “We deserve a clean and sustainable world.”

COURTESY // The Press Democrat Students hold signs during a rally for global climate strike.

Chabad Jewish Center welcomes students JULISSA ESPANA STAFF WRITER

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eptember 1 was the grand opening of the Sonoma County’s newest synagogue in East Santa Rosa, the Joseph Weingarten Chabad Jewish Center. Based in New York, Brooklyn, the Chabad center is a branch of the largest network of Jewish educational organizations around the world.

Rabbi Mendel Wolvovsky, who oversees the county’s Hasidic movement wants Sonoma State students interested in Jewish practice to get involved.

“I want students from Sonoma State to know that even though they may not be familiar with the community they have an open door here, we want Jewish students and of course any other student that would like to know more not to hesitate to contact us,” said Rabbi Wolvovsky.

Rabbi Mendel Wolvovsky and his wife, Altie Wolvovsky, arrived in the county more than 15 years ago to lead the local orthodox branch of Judaism, and fortunately found a permanent location for their community through donations.

Monroe Wingate and his wife, Peggy, who previously lived in Sonoma County, donated the building and financial gifts were provided from the larger community totaling more than $175,000

helped to remodel the center.

According to the Press Democrat, Monroe Wingate recalled his father, Joseph Weingarten, whom the center was named after, as a moral compass and peacemaker in his community.

“My dad was the kindest, most honest man I think I’ve ever known...[H]e loved this town, so this is fitting,” said Wingate.

The Joseph Weingarten Chabad Jewish Center has since been a religious, social and humanitarian ally in the community.

“The first objective we have is to make sure that every Jew that lives in Sonoma County or goes to Sonoma State knows that they have a home and at any point they can walk in and feel comfortable to connect to their own roots, to learn more about where their own people come from, what their own people grew up on, what we’ve been through and what we are experiencing right now in a new beautiful exciting way.” said Rabbi Mendel Wolvovsky, “We want to be there for people at every stage in life.”

His wife Altie Wolvovsky oversees the Hebrew school for children ages five to 12 years of age. Her goals are to engage the children in the studies where

they use all of their senses to learn and gain Jewish pride.

“One of the goals of our Hebrew school is that the children have Jewish pride that carries with them throughout their life,” said Altie Wolvovsky.

Altie’s favorite time of the week is celebrating Shabbat, which starts Friday before sunset. They light the Shabbat candles and have a beautiful Shabbat dinner of a 3 to a 4-course meal.

“Because I love hosting I invite between 15 and 20 guests every week. We discuss the Torah portion, Jewish themes and get to socialize with good friends,” said Altie.

Occasionally, she hosts community dinners, where public invitations are sent and RSVP is required. Community dinners attract between 50 to 100 people and volunteers come to help cook.

“We make some traditional foods such as Challah bread, chicken soup with matzoh balls and lots of other yummy dishes,” said Altie, “A couple of times a year we do a student dinner where we invite as many Jewish students as we can from Sonoma State or the junior college but students should know they can come anytime they want.”

STAR// Genesis Botello Joseph Weingarten Chabad Jewish Center is a great place for Sonoma State Jewish students to hang and learn about their culture.

6 Arts

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

SHAC Doggy Play Day fluffs up relaxation levels for students alike

CHRISTIAN DASILVA STAFF WRITER

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tudents and dog lovers gathered in awe last Thursday, Sept. 19, as the Darwin quad saw a swarm of friendly dogs ready for playful interaction, cuddles, and the joyful faces of Sonoma State students alike.

With combined efforts from the Student Health Advisory Committee and the 4 Paws Learning and Wellness Center, 15 dogs were brought to campus for students to pet and enjoy in a relaxing environment.

Hosted three times a semester, “SHAC Doggy Play Day” provides students with a chance to come and play with dogs as means for relaxation and “destressing.” All dogs, brought by the 4 Paws organization, are certified therapy dogs that are trained to work with people.

Held once a month, the event runs one and a half hours, except before finals--when it is fittingly three hours long. Starting at 11:30 a.m., the event showcases students quickly lining up as the dogs are in clear view--nothing besides a student signature of two security forms is required before students can see the puppies.

“SCHAC Doggy Play Day” had one of its largest turnouts in a while. Usually showcasing between 150 to 300 students per event, the event and its staff went through 200 sets of forms within just the first 30 minutes of opening.

With the turnout as big as it was this time around, the line quickly generated even more students, as the organizers wanted to limit interaction to three to four people per dog. SHAC member, Noelia Brambila-

Perez, assisted at the event as she helped organize the line and let students in upon signature.

Kindly stepping aside, Noelia says, “we had so many people, it was amazing to see. Although there is a line, people are still just waiting and waiting to get to the puppies despite the line.”

Among the adorable puppies at the event is Christopher, a nine-year-old Golden retriever. Christopher’s sponsor and member of the 4 Paws organization, Lisa, described how Christoper was not only the runt of his litter, but actually had to be resuscitated at birth. Although he was officially trained at the Berlin University program for service for two years, he was released due to medical issues. He has since then been reassigned as a service dog and frequently visits inmates and staff of the Sonoma County Detention Center as well as an ANOVA school for autistic children--and more.

When asked about the impact she has seen from students at Sonoma State, Lisa says, “I think for freshman, it’s like the first time seeing a dog since leaving home. So those are always special moments.

We hear a lot of stories about their dogs at home.”

With wagging tails and raised bellies, the dogs really do help students to relax, especially for those experiencing their first year on campus.

Vice President of SHAC, Cameron Kaiser, was also seen at the event and discusses its importance through his lens. “The Purpose is to really help students distress. They’re all therapy dogs, so they re-

ally know how to connect with humans and you can really tell that people love it,” says Kaiser.

In further discussion on excited students entering and exiting the dog area, assistant Noelia Brambila also says, “I think that it’s like a perfect way to build community. All of these students are having such fun. Some of them are still just hanging out and talking. Some are leaving all happy and goofy, it’s a good positive thing out of this.”

Leaving from the event, SSU students Marrissa and Sidney quickly give their thoughts about the event overall. “oh my god, I’m so happy. I don’t know how you can’t be happy after playing with a bunch of puppies, but it definitely makes your day” says Marrissa. Regarding the length of time that the two students had to wait in line, versus how long they played with the dogs, they said, “we didn’t want to take up too much time for everyone else because I could stay there all day, trust me,” admitting that they only stayed for five to ten minutes for each.

All dog lovers will agree that playing with dogs really is effective in working towards a de-stressed state of mind. Although the dogs themselves are enjoying the ear and belly scratches, students also enjoy the chance to wind down and let your worries run free--even if for a little amount of time. Whether useful for combating the mental demands of midterms and finals--or the longing for one’s own puppy--or simply for the enjoyment that the personal interaction brings, the next “SHAC Doggy Play Day” at Sonoma State is certainly worth the visit.

STAR // Taylor Clark Rianna McMahon plays with a dog during Doggy Play Day before heading back to class on Thurs. Sept. 19, 2019.

STAR // Taylor Clark Madison Willis-Moreno (left) Mykayla Louie (middle) and Jennifer McLean (right) enjoy Doggy Play Day outside of Darwin Hall.

STAR // Taylor Clark Vice President of SHAC, Cameron Kaiser, enjoys Doggy Play Day in Darwin Plaza.

K&L Bistro Review

GIANNA GRILLO STAFF WRITER

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&L Bistro is a well-known neighborhood Parisian-style restaurant that offers gourmet French cuisine in an intimate, sophisticated venue located in neighboring Sebastopol, California at 119 S Main St. Owners Lucas and Karen Martin have made their restaurant into a fine dining space where customers can enjoy their meal and cocktails: whether it be dining inside, outside, or at the full bar in between.

The open kitchen that the two owners provide is also a great way for customers to see what is going on while the cooks actively prepare their meal; it provides for a very engaging and open space that customers tend to enjoy. Couples love going on a nice dinner date to the bistro, as it can serve as very intimate and romantic; or, simply going for lunch is a popular initiative all the while, as the bistro is also a hot spot during the day.

The bistro offers its regular menu everyday, as well as brunch on Saturday and Sunday; its menu consists of extraordinary and delicious items such as the K&L Cobb salad, Chicken Picatta, Local Petrale Sole, Mac & Cheese, Halibut and a classic cheeseburger, among others.

A supplementary dish the two owners are very well known for is their French Onion Soup, which is purported

to be one of the best in the county. Happy Hour is everyday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., which includes $1.50 oysters, $4 draft beer, and $5 wine by the glass. The oysters that K&L Bistro provides are extremely popular as customers tend to rave about them for such a great happy hour price.

One customer, Scott Remillard, who has been going to K&L Bistro for years, says, “these are phenomenal craft cocktails by Mia Hensley; extraordinary service and friendly staff. The Chicken Picatta is over the top. They have a great happy hour with $1.50 oysters.” Another regular customer, Scott Jones, says, “Great ambience. Friendly people. The chef cooks the best steaks over the open wood fire.”

Chef Humberto Mendez outlines what his favorite dishes are, too, as he says, “the halibut is really good as well as the rib eye steak and petrale sole, in all honesty.”

Customers looking for a delicious and elegant restaurant to dine at with an array of entrees and wonderful cocktails-with an under-the-radar happy hour to boot--should definitely check out K&L Bistro in the neighboring city of Sebastopol, open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

STAR // Genesis Botello Oysters on the Half Shell at K & L Bistro in Sebastopol on Saturday, Sept. 22.

STAR // Genesis Botello Roasted Alaskan Halibut with fingerlings, fava beans, olive, sundried tomato and rosemary at K & L Bistro in Sebastopol.

Entertainment 7

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

Women in Conversation at the GMC: elevating female empowerment T

SHAY DALY

STAFF WRITER

he “Sonoma County Women in Conversation Experience,” presented by Summit State Bank along with The Press Democrat, was recently held on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at the Green Music Center at Sonoma State University. The Experience features daytime talks along with the showcasing of more than 50 exhibitors, with tabling from local companies empowering women all along the venue’s Trione Courtyard and Weill Lawn. Among the speakers present were some of the top females within their industry, such as Annie Sherman, the Sustainability Coordinator at Oliver’s Market. From those within women-related businesses and services--to financial planning and home design--to personal style as well as health and wellness, there were plenty of entrepreneurs to speak with at the event.

Sydney Adams, a student at Sonoma State University and attendee of the event, says, “well, definitely from simply just walking in, I really felt immediately supported--I mean, everyone was so welcoming and empowering. I think all of the tables hit different areas that we can all grow with, improve from, and continue to be inspired by.’’

Arriving at the event, attendees like Adams also notice the myriad of tasty food options from El Roy’s Mexican Grill, Gerard’s Paella, and Yatai Japanese Food Catering just before the entrance. In passing by the information booth thereafter, a pamphlet is given to lead the way and guide through all of the company tabling with awe-inspiring messages alike.

Guests strolling along through the

Trione Courtyard and heading toward Weill Lawn are witness to Safeguard Business Systems tabling: a company that serves all across Napa, Sonoma, and Marin County. While there are plenty of goodie bags and souvenirs offered at its table, the company’s owner and independent distributor, Sharen Papich, optimistically states, “we are really hoping to meet interesting women and to get to know them and ultimately have an opportunity to work with them.”

The layout of the event was immaculate, with colorful couches and decorative sitting areas with tables spread all throughout the Lawn. Further down was the quaint arrangement of the “Daytime Talks” that showcases nine women, each speaking for 15 minutes between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.

The strong voices of women speaking highly about their work in their respective industries allows for attendees to learn more about how being a female, no matter what background, is an identity better accentuated by the active feeling of inspiration that is drawn from those who have locally succeeded. For instance, Dr. Brittany Dashevsky, MD, DPHL, the Medical Director of Breast Imaging at St. Joseph Health, speaks about how to tailor breast screening to your level of risk, while answering additional questions about her journey within her field. The Experience for Sonoma County Women in Conversation ultimately lead up to the main event, “The Conversation with Cheryl Strayed and Tara Westover”: a sold-out experience.

STAR // Genesis Botello Stage opens for audience members to experience the Women in Conversation speaker series at Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center in Rohnert Park, California, on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

The numerous amount of companies at “The Experience” surely adds an all encompassing dynamic of relevance for women of different interests and passion types.

Taking no exception to this, the Garden Society, a local cannabis company, and its Marketing Coordinator, Cristina Pavelka, reveals the meaning behind the cannabis company’s predominant demographic being women.

Pavelka’s statement, however, underscores an empowering sentiment on women that directly parallels that of many other companies at the event: rising together through supporting one another, even as competition from a business standpoint. Pavelka says, “we like to support other female run companies, of course. Our goal, mainly being here with women, is to help destigmatize cannabis to show that everyday women can use it and that it’s not something that’s meant for a specific demographic or a type of person you know,” she continues, “we make it part of our business to support other female (cannabis) companies because we believe that when we rise, we rise together--we want to make sure that as women we are taking on this industry together and not alone.”

Consent, Please! brings call to action for consent culture Commentary

RYAN NOP

STAFF WRITER

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veryone learns about the entailments of consent, and non-consent, from the time they were born until the time they are on a college campus. But, with the spike in sexual assaults on college campuses across the country, an integral question needs addressing now more than ever: what have people of the demographic really learned about consent? As this question and those of the like are addressed at Sonoma State’s “Consent, Please! A Call to Action for Consent Culture” meeting, held on Sept. 17, the workshop equips students with a better understanding of consent and its looming implications in a society proving lackluster on the matter.

The definition of consent is the permission for something to happen or agreement to do something. The state of California is a “Yes State,” which means an affirmative approval from someone, before engaging in anything, is required. Non-consent, on the other hand, witholds its spectrum of non-verbal, to passive, to sexual assault, to rape.

Carina Buzo, the event coordinator, cannot express enough how integral the act of seeking consent is to our lives. As an exemplary reminder, as Carina is asked, “how exactly do you ask for consent?” she says, “I ask if it is okay before I do absolutely anything. I do not have monopolies over people’s bodies.” This, among a mul-

titude of key points that Buzo brings up when talking about consent; mainly, that we need to talk about consent explicitly and specifically with one another.

In any sexual interaction, both partners must engage in verbal discussion about it and both approve of whatever it is before reaching a consensus. Yet, every day we practice consent without even knowing it: by asking for someone’s permission to use something, or asking partners if he or she wants to go to lunch, the practice of consent is upheld daily. It is, rather, a matter of self-assigning a greater sense of obligation to consent-seeking over the underlying desires and irrational--even physically abhorrent--treatment of others to uphold said desires.

Surprisingly, with a plethora of useful information and verbal reminders on a matter of pure relevance to the Sonoma State community, the event only showcased about six people who came out to join in on the ever significant discussion, whether faculty or campus visitors-no students were in attendance. With rapes making huge headlines around the Sonoma State University community, especially those on campus, the Sept. 17 event proved worthy of hosting far more students in cementing supplementary education on a serious topic.

After attending the workshop herself, Susan Pulido, Sonoma State University’s confidential sexual violence

advocate, says that, “I do a lot of work for the university.

I try and do a lot of work on consent education. I am not always able to do programming as I am very busy supporting and advocating for survivors of sexual and domestic violence,” she continues, “how wonderful would it be for me to be able to delicate more time to the prevention work? This would work towards working me out of a job.”

The event coordinator, Carina Buzo, goes on to add that consent demands an ongoing practice and personal sense of responsibility. She says, “we should be practicing with friends or family and just keep making sure consent is used in the right situations.”

Yet, Rebecca, a guest at Sonoma State University, draws perhaps the most important point on the matter of consent and its presence, or lack thereof, in the media--the overarching tool for a flourishing, or further devolved future state of consent’s enactment by others in our own daily lives. Rebecca reminds, “social media, the broadest form of media worldwide, needs to do more in getting this topic out there; the ‘broader media’ is too afraid to bring it up because it is mainly sexual--like our parents are afraid to bring it up and it should not be like that. We should be able to learn this topic at a younger age.”

Oktoberfest at Brewsters Beer Garden EVE RABINOVITZ

STAFF WRITER

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or those among Sonoma State students alike who are striving to celebrate Oktoberfest, but are unable travel to its true roots and event showcase in Munich, Germany, Brewsters Beer Garden will be holding an Oktoberfest celebration the weekend of Sept. 28 and Sept. 29.

Although the event is free for those of all ages, particularly, for students of age, grab your “dirndl” or “lederhosen” and head over to the festival for a plethora of beer drinking, live music, games, and authentic German food.

General manager, Ben Hetzel, says, “when we were developing our core vision for Brewsters Beer Garden, we kept coming back to the need to have a strong sense of community; an annual Oktoberfest celebration is one manifestation of this aspect of our vision. We are a true community gathering place, where everyone is welcome and feels comfortable and respected.”

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest Volksfest and has now become a worldwide phenomenon. Celebrating Bavarian culture and flowing pints of beer, the drinkingfilled festival is one not to miss out on. Although the annual event is well associated with beer, it certainly has its fill of Bavarian traditions all the while. And, while beer

is provided at the beer tents, people find that other attendees alike cheer enormously passionate as they sing along to Bavarian music.

Oktoberfest became a celebrated tradition 200 years ago when, “Bavaria’s Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen on Oct. 12, 1810. The wedding was celebrated with multiple days of drinking, feasting and horse races,” according to Time.com.

This time around, the cherished event’s counterpart in Brewsters Beer Garden is an open-air dining restaurant offering an array of local craft beer on draft, Sonoma and Napa Valley wine as well as a full selection of spirits and cocktails. In celebration of Oktoberfest, Brewsters Beer Garden will transform the restaurant into a festival as an appropriate ode. The restaurant’s staff members will also be adorned in traditional Bavarian attire as they cater Oktoberfest guests’ desires.

Of course, it is not Oktoberfest without beer. Pick your choice from an array of over 30 local craft beers on draft. Brewsters Beer Garden has a selection of local craft beer ranging from the following breweries: Henhouse Brewing, Lagunitas Brewing Company,

Cooperage Brewing Company, Barrel Brothers Brewing Company and several others boasting many more tasty brews.

No matter which is of choice, attendees are certain to find a unique and traditional beer that fulfills all aspects of enjoyment.

Be sure to tap into the schnitzel and beer sausage by executive chef, Todd Shoberg, and dance away with live music provided by Big Lou’s Polka Casserole and Schwabenland German Band. A stein holding competition will also be offered

for men and women and a yodeling completion for adults and children.

Oktoberfest centers around beer, undoubtedly, however the event is family friendly and attendees are not required to be 21 and older. Tickets are not required to enjoy the festival. If students--whether prepared with their Dirndl and lederhosen, or not--find the time this weekend, Brewster’s Beer Garden’s Oktoberfest event is definitely an extraordinary experience worthy of checking out.

COURTESY // SONOMACOUNTY.COM The Oktoberfest event will be held at 229 Water St. North, Petaluma.

8 Student Life Student Spotlight: Madi Hayes

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

CHRISTY CHEW STAFF WRITER

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onoma State University enlightens students with its essence of nature, and a particular student, Madi Hayes, has her eye out to protect the beautiful bounty we have surrounding our campus. Besides enjoying the beauty that Sonoma has to offer, Madi Hayes decides to put her passion into actions about sustainability within our community.

Madi Hayes is currently a Junior here at Sonoma State, and is involved in various ways on top of her two majors, environmental studies and marine biology. Her generous amount of work and involvement with environmental practices has given our school a practical outlook on sustainability.

“I took a marine biology class in high school, and soon after realized I wanted to help people and the planet for the rest of my life,” said Hayes.

Hayes grew up in Malibu, and had always wanted to make a change.

Her passion for the environment grew deep during her high school years, when taking a marine biology class and falling absolutely in love. Hayes knew her passion had grown so deep for the love of the environment that she wanted to incorporate it into her time at the university.

When Hayes is not busy with her studies, she spends most of her time working with Join Us Making Progress (JUMP), the community service program, as a part of Associated Students here at Sonoma State. Beginning as a Sustainability Coordinator in the beginning of her Sophomore year, Hayes organized small scale community service events regarding sustainability.

“My job as Sustainability Coordinator was to help the school create community service events concerning sustainability to students and staff,” said Hayes.

Hayes skills and focus landed her a promotion in May 2019, as Director of Sustainability. This job entails overseeing three coordinators, helping with marketing improvement, and meeting with housing for composting.

“With this new job, I have a few people under me that I manage, and they help with marketing and improvement for our community,” says Hayes.

Hayes and the JUMP community are always trying to recruit volunteers to help with activities like gardening around campus. Hayes believes it is very necessary to have volunteers to keep their program growing strong, and keeping the campus sparkling.

Any student is welcome to lend a hand with JUMP, and learn new aspects STAR // Ashley Cobb about our community they that may have never known.

Madi Hayes poses for a photo for the Sonoma State Star.

In addition to Hayes’ wonderful accomplishment as Director of Sustainability, scale environmental practices, to performing them on an even bigger scale. she was as involved as possible, which led to her position as JUMP’s This includes her current dreams to write environmental policy regarding former treasurer. Hayes also takes time to provide for the university in social justice around the D.C. area, to not only help the planet but the people many other ways. This includes: working as a summer orientation leader, a on it. former teammate on the rowing squad, and a current member of the Greek “I would love to go deeper and combat environmental racism, and deal with organization Alpha Gamma Delta. policies that keep people of color oppressed, and perhaps write environmental

Hayes keeps a busy schedule during the year, but she learned to keep policies of my own,” said Hayes. herself at a well-managed, steady pace throughout her hectic lifestyle, by

Hayes’ work has made her a vital component of the Sonoma State providing time to help others and time for herself. Hayes likes to find balance, community, and will continue to through her years as a college student. Hayes and make sure she takes time out to keep herself well-adjusted. Often, Hayes has shown a tremendous amount of care for our school, and the opportunities can be found hanging out with friends on her downtime, reading books, and she has provided has opened doors for many others here at our university. even collecting makeup.

Hayes wants to help the environment, as well as help people’s ecological

“When I am not working or doing homework, I like to hang out with footprint in a positive way. friends, and I read on my downtime. I love a suspenseful book,” said Hayes.

“Volunteering is a super important aspect in my life, and I feel like

Hayes wants to gain more responsibilities as she continues her journey, hoping to expand her boundaries, and enter the world of environmental policy. everyone should be giving back to their community in some way shape or Her current job title has pushed her to believe she can go anywhere from small form,” said Hayes.

Calm down with Croch-ayy on campus CARSON FIELD STAFF WRITER

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tressed out and looking for a way to wind down and relieve some stress? CrochAyy is the perfect place. This event, held on Sonoma State University’s campus, at the HUB Cultural Center, focuses on creating a peaceful environment for students to escape their everyday stressors. Whether it is to learn something new, to forget about the stack of homework at home, or simply just to meet new people, Croch-Ayy has something to offer for everyone.

The event will be held on Sept. 24th from 6:45pm-7:30pm on the second f loor of the Student Center. Croch-Ayy’s theme, named for the art of chrocheting is to “Practice Self-Care through mindful art” according to Sonoma State’s Campus Life website.

Many college students rely on a good face mask and consider it “selfcare” but when pondering on what “self-care” actually consists of, many people are unsure. Maria Barrata in Psychology Today released an article on “Self-Care 101”.

“Self care in essence is the mindful taking time to pay attention to you,” stated Barrata. “Not in a narcissistic way, but in a way that ensures that you are being cared for by you.”

Croch-Ayy is allowing students to not only take their minds off of their busy lives but to also focus it on something that works the brain in a positive and healthy way.

Croch-Ayy provides all of the resources and supplies for the event, giving all students the same opportunity to learn and create something

amazing, whether that is a masterpiece or friendships.

At the University of Wollongong in Australia, a study was done on the act of crocheting and its effects on mental health. Lakeisha Evans, speaking on behalf of the Wollongong study, expresses just how important hobbies such as crocheting can be.

“Crocheting can improve the strength of memory, the ability to focus, and even provide some relief from anxiety and depression to a certain extent,” said Evans. “This would make it an incredible method for self-care if more people were to utilize it.”

Evans then goes on in the article explaining that dopamine in the human brain is released when performing activities engaging your mind, such as crocheting, quite literally bringing happiness the more one does it. Happiness is now the goal of the event. Croch-Ayy hopes to not only create a new hobby for students but also to give students a healthier outlet for their stress.

Crocheting, famously known for being your grandma’s favorite activity, has now created its own name for being a great outlet for people of all ages. Croch-Ayy hopes to give students the skills and materials to begin crocheting and begin “practicing self-care through mindful art” at the event and afterwards.

Come join an inclusive and fun event meant to destress.

Umoja Queens empowers Black Womxn

DANIELA CLINTON STAFF WRITER

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eing that the majority of people are away from their families when they are at school, it is important to have some sort of support system or a “home away from home.” That is what the Umoja Queens meeting hopes to be for African American women. On Sept. 26 there will be an Umoja Queens meeting, located in the HUB on campus.

“The Umoja Queens mentorship group was inspired by a group of students that identify as Black Womxn,” said Cookie Garrett, the coordinator of this event. This group strives to serve as professional role models to African American woman on campus.

The Umoja Queens group began one random day as a few ladies were at Lobos for lunch. While they were at lunch they were approached by several different women of color who were in awe of their group and wanted to be apart of it. Due to the happiness that radiated off of their faces, it encouraged these women to start this group in order to serve as mentors for those who needed it.

“We strive to support, encourage, and empower Black Womxn as they explore their personal values, beliefs and ideas during their matriculation at SSU,” said Cookie Garrett.

A big reason as to why this group is extremely important nowadays is because it allows African American students see themselves within both the faculty and staff on campus. This way the students can feel a sense of belonging as well as a support system.

At this event students can expect to branch out and meet other people from different communities at Sonoma State University that also share many of their identities. This group also spends a lot of their planning other events that may come about in the future. However, the main purpose behind this group is to provide Sonoma State students with some sort of “safe zone.”

Not only will this meeting encourage people to be more open about their life experiences, but it also aids them in building a strong network within the Sonoma State community. It allows people to recognize familiar faces around campus which begins the process of making the campus a more comfortable place.

“I think it is a great way for people to feel more comfortable on campus. It is an amazing source to not only feel safe but also know you have a support system,” said Codie Williams, a Sonoma State student.

It is important that these women feel an unconditional sense of comfort whenever they walk into these meetings. Not only that, but it is key for these women to realize that they are also coming together as a group to make a positive difference in this community.

“Identifying as an African-American is a huge symbol of power to me.

Power is not in money, it is how I am able to make someone feel, by the color of my skin and the strength of my voice,” said Jazz Hill, a Sonoma State student.

Student Life 9

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Hub hosts Latinx Community and Ally Lunch JESSICA SIAS STAFF WRITER

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onoma States University strives to celebrate all of its students and staff cultural differences. On Sept. 27, there will be a Latinx Community and Ally Lunch at the HUB from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and all are welcome. The Honoring Uniting Building (HUB) Cultural Center works to foster connections and meaningful conversation to build community between cultures and across different worldviews.

“I will be co-facilitating the Real Talks along with Marissa Chavez. For Real Talk for Latinx Communities and Allies, the goal is to have a space at The HUB to share our stories about the Latinx Culture.

Each month we have a different topic to highlight,” said Shelly Gomez, staff member of the HUB and co-facilitator of the event.

The HUB invites all Seawolves to eat, celebrate, and connect with peers to meet new people. The HUB hopes that students and staff are able to join them and have the opportunity to connect with one another to build a community, and support each other as Seawolves enter the new semester.

“These luncheons are open to the public and you eat and get to interact and talk about different connections that you have on campus. It is an easy way to come together with people that are like you and it helps minority groups not feel alone,” said the Student Government Senator of Diversity, Morgan Beatty.

Their approach at the HUB is to honor students that should be treated with dignity and respect.

They unite all people to explore what it means to be part of an authentic community.

“The HUB is Sonoma State’s cultural center that hosts events in relation to race-ethnicity, and gender-sexuality, plus social justice. The staff are very sweet welcoming group of folks,” said active member of the HUB, Mia Lopez-Bazan.

The HUB’s staff and peers encourage students to help build a future that is more than just compassionate and loving.

They work together to create a safe space for all students.

Not only does it encourage folks to create new connections, but they emphasize on the importance of being able to interact with peers with different views.

Sept. 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month of 2019 officially kicked off. Many organizations have come together to positively influence and enrich the nation and society.

“We strive to be a space that continuously honors different identities throughout each semester,” said Gomez.

The HUB works alongside many students to create a welcoming environment for Seawolves with a safe place where students can learn,engage, and respect each other’s experiences.

“As undergraduate student last year, and previous intern at The HUB, I created and facilitated Real Talk for Latinx Communities and Allies to honor Latinx students across campus. Now, as I returned as Interim Program Coordinator, I wanted to continue with the program and create a space at The HUB for the Latinx community to come together and share our stories,” said Gomez.

Many programs that the HUB has to offer is always welcoming to ally’s. They want to ensure that the HUB is a comfortable place for Seawolves and for anyone who identifies with a certain groups feel honored and respected.

“The HUB is a really great way to network and get to know other Latinx folks on campus.

It’s a safe space for students to hang out, do homework and host club meetings.” said President of Mujeres Activas en Letras y Cambios Social (MALCS) Gabriela

COURTESY // Google Students will get the chance to connect with and appreciate Latinx culture.

Davila.

The Latinx Community and Allies lunch happening on Sept. 27 is one of the many free luncheons that the HUB provides for its students during the start of a new

semester. If you are looking for a safe place and a way to interact with your peers check out the HUB on the second floor of the student center and pick up a flyer.

Become like Bob Ross at the Paint & Sip Event MIA POLLAK

STAFF WRITER

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ine and Paint nights have become a popular pastime in recent years. It is a time for people to come together and get creative over a glass of wine and a canvas. This phenomenon is coming to Sonoma State on Sept. 24. Associated Students Productions (ASP) invite students to Paint and Sip. This event will take place in Weyden & Brewster.

“It’s a great experience to connect with your friends and meet new people. The art pieces are complex, but the instructor makes it super easy to mimic. I’ve been to a couple of others outside of SSU with my family and it was a great bonding experience” said Sonoma State student Alyssa Curtis.

Not only will students get to learn how to paint, they will get a video tutorial from painting icon Bob Ross. Bob Ross’s mentality is “happy little accidents” which is perfect for beginners who stress COURTESY // Google about their painting experience.

A Bob Ross tutorial will be shown at the Paint & Sip event that students can follow along.

There is no pressure and everyone from newbies to experts can find years. “Students love the opportu- come to our events. Our ongoing planning my sorority’s philanthrosomething to enjoy. nity to come paint with all the ma- events like bowling night and open py event ‘Lip Jam’. Erik Dickson Entrance to the event is free terials given to them and then they mic night are always successful. and I worked closely with one anwith a Sonoma State I.D. Materials are able to take their art home with The haunted house and our concerts other and he thought I’d be a great for Paint & Sip will be provided. them. They love being able to wine are also well attended,” said Glatt. fit to ASP. And I loved every minThe event will have two parts to it; down in between classes. The Bob Weyden & Brewster will be of- ute of it and I do miss it. But I took session one beginning at 7 p.m. and Ross ‘paint night’ is new but I think fering a cash bar for students who those skills and now plan events for session two starting at 8:15 p.m., it will be just as popular as our are over the age of 21 to indulge in a living so it’s great,” said Glatt. giving people with busier nights the paint in the plaza days.” a glass of wine during the event as This event will be a good chance chane to hopefully find a time to Paint & Sip allows students to well. for students to sit back, kick their enjoy the festivities. relax and enjoy time spent with Associated Student Productions feet up, and paint while conversat“We do lots of events that have friends. The tutorial is easy for be- is Sonoma State’s number one ing with fellow peers. to do with expression and current ginners to follow along allowing for source of events on campus. They Who doesn’t want the chance to events and those are well attended students with all levels of art expe- offer a variety of activities to attend be Bob Ross for a day? Visit the as well. Students love the variety. rience to participate in the tutorial. and get involved with. ASP offers Paint and Sip event to enjoy a drink We have done paint ‘days’ in the “ASP has had a big f luctuation everything from a wild cat show to and paint some pretty pictures with past. Which have all been extreme- in event attendance. We had a free bowling nights.

Bob Ross. ly successful,” said alumni Sammi steady f low of people that would “I got involved with ASP after Glatt, a member of ASP for two

10 Sports Devastating loss for men’s soccer against Fresno Pacific

SEPT. 24- SEPT. 30, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

COURTESY // sonomaseawolves.com Goalie Derik Engebretsen clears the ball away from Fresno Pacifics forward.

OLIVIA VERBECK STAFF WRITER

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n Sept. 18, the Sonoma State men’s soccer team traveled to play Fresno Pacific, where they losed with the score being 3-2.

Fresno Pacific started out strong by putting pressure on the Seawolves. Within the first minute of the game, Fresno Pacific’s Jose Vargas had a shot on goal, but Sonoma’s goalkeeper, Derik Engebretsen was there with the save.

Seven minutes in and Vargas was there with another shot, but missed wide. In the next minute, Engebretsen went outside the box with a tackle and received a yellow card.

Fresno Pacific received a free kick right outside the box. This kick was taken by number 10, Anthony Torres.

Torres crossed the ball into forward Felippe Souza for the header goal, putting Fresno in the lead 1-0.

Right when Fresno Pacific scored, defender Matthew Walleigh said, “I knew that we were the better team, we just need to get are wheels running.”

After the goal, Sonoma takes the kickoff. In the eleventh minute, Souza fouls and received a yellow card.

Sonoma then gains possession of the ball and started to make their way up the field.

Sophomore, Eduardo Rodriguez, carried the ball up field and took a shot, but goalkeeper Patrick Timmer was there with the save.

Fresno Pacific gained possession most of the game and started to gain more opportunities on shots. In the twenty-third minute, Felippe Souza took a shot, but Engebretsen was there with the block. Two minutes later, Vargas took a powerful shot, but missed out wide.

As the game progressed, both teams became aggressive, creating fouls every few minutes. This made both coaches to start substituting players in and out, creating new line ups for more chances at goal.

In the thirty-eighth minute, number 11, Anthony Torres, carried the ball and passed it to number 8, Pak Hei Chan, who was out wide on the left wing. Chan then found senior Brian Leyva for the cross. Leyva receives the ball, and shot right down the center scoring for the Sunbirds.

At half time, the score is 2-0, with the Sunbirds in the lead. When the second half started, the Seawolves coach, Marcus Ziemer changed the lineup, putting in new players, hoping for a goal.

Junior, Sebastian Santos enters the game during the second half. Santos started putting pressure of the defensive line of the Sunbirds, causing the defender to make a bad back pass to the goalkeeper.

Santos saw the mistake and went in for the attack, he intercepted on the pass, and fired the ball into the net, putting Sonoma on the board.

Fresno State began to attack harder because they

were only winning by a goal. They received two fouls within two minutes of each other. This gave Sonoma possession to make their way to the goal.

Lopez gained possession and took a shot, yet Timmer blocked the shot and sent the ball out to Fresno Pacific’s attacking line. Midfielder, James Hernandez received the ball and passed it to midfielder Hugo Hernandez.

Hugo Hernandez gives the ball back to James Hernandez who found Leyva, who was waiting for the ball in the box. Leyva then turns and shoots, putting the ball in the lower left corner, making the score 3-1.

The Seawolves began attacking and gaining more opportunities on goal. Number 16, Ulysses Vega gained possession and found number 24, Oliver Ziemer in the box.

Ziemer turns and shoots, hitting it around the keeper for an easy goal.

Sonoma was eager to get another goal. Number 7, Sean Rohane shot wide, number 25, Evan Roehrig shot and it was saved, and Santos shot, and it also went wide. Unfortunately, Sonoma could not finish, causing the game to come to an end. The game was won by Frenso with a score of 3-2.

“We are better than out record and we are ready to turn it around,” Coach Ziemer told the Sonoma Seawolves sports page. “We have 9 days to get ready for conference play, we will get some key guys healthy and get ready for Humboldt.”

Women’s volleyball keeps the winning streak alive ATHENA FRANKLIN STAFF WRITER

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onoma State women’s volleyball swept Pacific Union College 3 sets to 0 giving them the match on Sept. 17. The Seawolves won 25-11 in the first set, 25-6 in the second, and 2511 in the final.

Caiti Wiesner, an outside hitter for the Seawolves, helped her team with the win by becoming one of the game leaders. Wiesner dominated the court with three kills early on in the first set.

Being a senior on the court, Wiesner showed her experience by contributing 6 points for her team.

“I think as a team we play really well together but we can improve a little bit on our defensive effort. We always have some great defensive plays during our games that fire us up to make us play harder.” Wiesner continued, “I believe if we always make great defensive plays it will take us a long way this season.”

Emma Campell, number 7 for Pacific Union College, was very competitive on the court, having two kills in the first set. Sophomore, Zaire Wilson was also seen as competition for the Seawolves and had a total of 2 kills and 2 digs.

Freshman for Sonoma State, Jen Trephan, earned a spot as one of the game leaders. Trephan had 5 kills, 10 assists, 5 digs and put up 5 points for the lady seawolves.

Trephan said “I think we played really good, COURTESY // sonomaseawolves.com the team was not very competitive with us. This games win will let us gain confidence going into Women’s volleyball dominates against Pacific Union College in three sets on Sep. 17. regular season.” She continued, “We played like it was any other team and we did not have that many aces as a team. The women’s volleyball team has had winning last year so these wins have meant so much errors which helped us a lot. It is really nice to an overall great start to their year. more to us.” get some wins behind us going forward because

Kiana Richardson played the entire game and

Pacific Union began to struggle towards the we know we can beat good teams, and it gives contributed 6 points for Sonoma State. Richardson, end of eachmatch, giving up 75 points to the seawolves. us more confidence playing against better teams.” number 6 for Sonoma State said, “I think that we had The pioneers had 5 ball handling errors while the sea Errors were a big part of the game for a hard time mentally. We have so much talent on our wolves had no ball handling errors. Ending the game both teams and servicing errors in particular were team, but when we feel defeated, that’s when we tend with a win for Sonoma State. the highest for both teams. Pacific Union had 10 to lose. We did a good job last game of just keeping the The next home game will be Sept 28, vs. Humboldt errors and Sonoma State had 12. Pacific Union ball in play. We made less mistakes which allowed us State University. put up a fight but Sonoma State was able to capito win.” The sophomore continued,“Having these wins talize on the errors that the Pioneers created. going into our season has boosted our confidence as a Sonoma State had 32 kills, 27 assists and 5 team. It is especially great because we had some issues

Sports 11

SEPT. 24- SEPT. 30, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

Women’s soccer shuts out Simon Fraser University in an electrifying game

STAR // Taylor Clark Sonoma State players assess what is going on during a home game on Fri. Sept. 20.

JOSEPH OWEN

STAFF WRITER

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he seawolves women’s soccer team put on a show Friday afternoon against Simon Fraser University, showing both their offensive and defensive prowess throughout the entire duration of the game. Sonoma State defeated Simon Fraser 3-0 and held their opponents to just one shot in the entire first half of the game.

Sonoma State came out hot and immediately put pressure on Simon Fraser’s defense early in the game.

The Seawolves made a strong offensive attack as forward, Alyssa Silva, kicked a scorching feed from number 11, Molly Murphy. The high intelligence soccer didn’t stop there, just three minutes later another goal was made by middle forward, Sarah Lindborg, off of her stomach from an assist by freshman forward Alex Espitia. This gave the Seawolves a 2-0 lead in the first 10 minutes of play.

Sophomore, Julia Pritchard had a good feeling going into the game that day. Pitchard said, “Coming into the game I felt confident with myself and my teammates, I knew playing at home was a big deal so we were ready to get the job done.” Number 11 continued by stating, “Afterwards, I was very happy with the way we played together as a team and it made me excited for the future!”

Simon Fraser University goalkeeper, Nicole Anderson, had a long day against the Seawolve women, accounting for 16 saves on 31 shots as the offensive outburst never slowed down. Sonoma State’s defensive side didn’t let up either, only allowing a 4 attempts on the goal in 90 minutes of play.

Sam Layman, a senior on Sonoma State, was very excited by the outcome of what her team was able to accomplish. “I could tell walking into pre-game our team was calm and ready to face one of our regional opponents. I felt like this was the best game we’ve played as a team the whole season so far.” Layman continued by saying, “Sometimes we struggle putting two full halves together, but we stayed mentally and physically strong and played well in both offense and defense yesterday.”

After a long back and forwarth, the Seawolves pushed Simon Fraser University to their limits and were able to score another goal with almost 10 minutes left on the clock. Defensive sophomore Krissy Keller shot a nice entry pass to midfield third year Maddie Watts to make the score 3-0.

The defense of the Seawolves was incredible as goalkeeper Ashley Mortan saved all three shots on her goal. Along with the entire defensive squad accounting for countless defensive stops that stopped Simon Fraser in their tracks for most of the game.

Center midfielder, Miranda Sanchez was happy with the outcome of the game saying, “I feel very good about our teams’ performance. We did what we needed to do and dominated the game. We had a very creative attack which helped us put the game away and create lots of chances.”

The Seawolves remain undefeated with a 3-2-0 record as they have proven to be a formidable team. Their next game is an away game on Sep. 24 at 4p.m. against Fresno Pacific University.

Men’s lacrosse team wins preseason game against DVC NATALYA SWENSEN STAFF WRITER

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he Sonoma State men’s club lacrosse team has been working extremely hard this preseason to get ready for spring. Their home game on Saturday, Sept. 21, against Diablo Valley College ended with an 18-14 win for Sonoma State.

Sophomore Sean Kennelly’s greatest takeaway from the game was that even though there is a lot that could be improved, there is a lot of room for growth and potential for the team. Kennelly said, “I think the overall tenacity and effort was through the roof the whole game. It was great to get everyone’s legs off and running in a real game for once.”

Ryan Hampton, number 16 and president of the men’s lacrosse team, also saw a need for improvement after the game, but overall was happy with how the game turned out. He said, “I believe the number one thing we did well as a team is that we played as one unit. Regardless if it was offense or defense, everyone played as a single unit.” Hampton continued his statement when he said, “Coach Hewitt always stresses that anything great is worth working for and I think we have proven that today.”

Last season did not end up the way that many of the players would have hoped, but they are looking to improve this coming season. Hampton is keeping last seasons losses in the past knowing that there is nothing they can do to change that, but is focusing on excelling in the new season.

Preseason for the Lacrosse team has been very different compared to previous years. The team had a tendency to focus predominantly on skill development, but this year the team is making the time and putting in the effort to focus more on game plans. They plan to develop more plays and to start playing more intelligently on the field to prepare for their competitive spring season. The team also plans on implementing more weights and conditioning throughout the year in order to stay in good shape.

Joey Piombo, senior and captain, said that this season they are focussing on building a better team. “We want to work hard and get better every day as well as staying positive and enjoying the journey that is the spring season.”

Piombo was happy with their win on Saturday, but thinks the team needs to keep building. He said, “I thought that we closed out the game well and we won the majority of the face offs which helped our possession time a lot.”

The Sonoma State men’s lacrosse team has been able to recruit a lot of new members for the team this year. They also have a new coaching staff that has been making major positive changes for the team. They are more organized and more motivated than ever to compete against some of the best teams.

Alex Hassna is a senior and one of the other captains on the team said, “our program is night and day from what it was last year and it is for the best.”

The players are excited for the new season and are willing to put in the COURTESY //BrianBaerPhotography time and effort that it takes to be a winning team for this upcoming spring Hayden Dall storms into enemy territory against Diablo Valley College. season.

12 Photo

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 30, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Carnival-themed dinner elicits nostalgia for students

STAR // Courtney Bagg Celina Renderos grabs a popcorn ball from the dessert bar at Carnival Night at the Kitchens

STAR // Courtney Bagg

STAR // Courtney Bagg Sierra Moore spins the Carnival Night wheel of prizes at the entrance to Carnival Night.

Freshman Kianna Briele Maldi sprinkles powdered sugar on-top-of funnel cakes for her dessert.

STAR // Jacob Loher James Alvarez (left) and Albert Coito (right) attempt to analyze a portrait at the LGBTQ+ art exhibit in the Library.

STAR //Jacob Loher Spencer Hall (left) Justin Swartout (middle) and Hannah Brandon (right) sit and wait for Stomping Grounds’ event to begin.

STAR // Jacob Loher Justin Swartout (left) and Spencer Hall (right) play The Winery Game during Stomping Grounds’ Third Thursdays event.