Volume74issue14

Sonoma State Star SINCE 1979

MAY 12 - MAY 18, 2015

VOLUME 74 // ISSUE 14

SONOMASTATESTAR.COM

Campus prepares for commencement

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Kimmie Jones Staff Writer

n Saturday, roughly 2,000 Sonoma State University students will gather in their caps and gowns at the 2015 commencement ceremony. Sonoma State has 36 academic departments, 46 bachelor degree programs and 15 masters programs that will be included in the commencement.

The 2,000 graduating students will join nearly 63,000 other Sonoma State alumni following Saturday’s ceremony.

Graduating Senior, Rebecca O’Neil will

be graduating from the Hutchins School of Liberal Studies. O’Neil, who is graduating after four years at Sonoma State, will be attending St. Mary’s for a one year teaching credential and a Master’s degree in Education.

When asked what she would tell her freshman self now, O’Neil said, “Put yourself out there. Sonoma is a blank slate. Paint what you want, this is your canvas.”

The top majors at Sonoma State are business, psychology, sociology, liberal See COMMENCEMENT on Pg. 4

STAR // Connor Gibson Sonoma State University’s Associated Students swore in new officers for the 2015-16 year on Friday, including Brandon Mercer as Associated Students president.

New Associated Students officers sworn into office

T STAR // Brandon Stachnik Rapper and self-proclaimed king of summer, Shwayze, performed at Saturdazed. The live music and arts festival was held at the Sonoma Mountain Village Event Center in Rohnert Park.

See the photo feature online at sonomastatestar.com

Latinos off-pace in degree attainment Joshua Gutierrez Staff Writer

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he growth of Latinos in California’s higher education system has yet to translate to an increase of degrees earned for the state’s largest ethnic group.

According to data sets from calstate. edu, CSU enrollment of students who identified as Mexican-American or “other Latino” totaled 51,421 in the fall of 1994.

Twenty years later, those same demographic categories totaled 159,232.

Sonoma State University experienced a similar trend, as enrollment for MexicanAmerican and “other Latino” totaled 583 in the fall of 1994. In the fall of 2014, enrollment was 2,335.

The University of California system also experienced a growth of individuals who identified themselves as Chicano/Latino. In 2014, this demographic enrolled at 47, 525. Ten years earlier, it was 24,646, according to universityofcalifornia.edu.

See DEGREE ATTAINMENT on Pg. 4

Rissie Markarian Staff Writer

he final meeting of the year for the Associated Students was filled with laughter on Friday as the student leaders reflected on the hard work of the past year, just before the new senate was sworn in.

One of the members even quoted the late Leonard Nimoy, as he sought to inspire his successors. Students had nothing but positive words for their fellow colleagues, sharing thanks to their advisers and focusing a lot of praise on Bianca Zamora, the former chair of the senate, for a job well done.

“You can imagine trying to get nine people to agree on something; trying to formulate an opinion for over 9,000 people is an incredibly difficult challenge,” said Erik Dickson, the Executive Director of Associated Students.

“This year’s Associated Students did a great job trying to speak for such a diverse and varied audience. They really pushed for the university to realize that the student voice is important.”

Predecessors were in charge of swearing in new members and passing down their positions. The new Associated Students Senate members consist of Brandon Mercer as president, Kevin McMahon as vice president of finance, Olivia Smith as the senator for the School of Arts and Humanities, Russel De Jong as senator for the School of Social Sciences, Shannon Garcia as the senator for Community

Affairs, Ana Tongilava as senator for diversity, Jasmine Delgado as senator for involvement, Matthew Goodin as senator for student services, Claudia Sisomphou as senator for sustainability and Lucas Ammerman as senator for undeclared.

The newly inducted Associated Students Senate discussed their appointees for positions no one ran for. All votes to fill those positions then passed unanimously. Biology major Bianca Rose, is the new Chair of the Senate and political science major Kate Chavez is the new Executive Vice President. Associated Students is still in the search of the School of Business and Economics position for the upcoming academic year.

“There’s a lot of new energy, it’s going to be a great year,” said Dickson about the 2015-16 Associated Students Senate. “There are actually more people around this table than there were for the 201415 senate, more of the positions are filled and I think you see a lot of new faces. There are a lot of excited students coming in saying, ‘I want to make sure Sonoma State is the campus I want it to be.’ ” Former Associated Students President Anthony Gallino had his own closing thoughts to share about his time spent in the organization.

“It has been a real pleasure serving the students of Sonoma State,” Gallino said. “Frankly, I believe it was the most important thing I have done in my life so far. I am forever indebted to them for giving me the opportunities

I’ve had through being elected.

Sonoma State University is a special place, and I will forever remember it.”

Gallino hopes Associated Students will continue to grow and become closer with the student body. Some of his wishes for future members are for them to more effectively engage with the campus and make themselves more visible to students.

The former president also endorses Brandon Mercer as his successor and offers words of wisdom.

“I have full confidence and faith [Mercer] will do amazing work for the students, as will all of student government,” said Gallino. “My advice to him will be to stay the course. No matter what setbacks and struggles you may encounter in your term, always remember your purpose: connect and serve the students of SSU. Do what’s best in the interests of all.

Don’t settle for less.”

Brandon Mercer spoke of his future at Associated Students president.

“This summer is all about unifying our executive team,” Mercer explained. “I hope to develop a set of realistic objects for Associated Students to fervently pursue as soon as the senate comes back into session in late August.

As for myself, this summer I hope to develop bonds with Sonoma State’s administrators and faculty to better understand all avenues of change on our campus.”

See OFFICERS on Pg. 4

Page 2

Editorial THE STAR Editorial Board Brandon Stachnik, Editor-in-Chief Kayla E. Galloway, News Editor Aidan Guthrie, Opinion Editor

Ashley Martin, Arts & Entertainment Editor Shannon Brown, Features Editor Kory Arnold, Sports Editor Brennan Chin, Photo Editor Edward Goquingco, Copy Editor Kyler Khan, Copy Editor & Marketing Director Jalissa Tello, Advertising Director Connor Gibson, Distribution Director Eddie Blake, Editorial Cartoonist Paul Gullixson, Faculty Adviser

Staff Writers Jake Burke, Samantha Cardenas Jennifer González, Joshua Gutierrez Olivia Johnson, Emily Johnstone Kimmie Jones, Kayla Kring Rissie Markarian, Ancia Purdy Alex Sanchez, Ciara Smith Sierra Smith, Aaron Walker Michelle Welling

Photographers Connor Gibson, Niquie Wilson

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:

“Reverse Anthropologist enlightens campus” While spoken word may not be the most mainstream of performance art, Guillermo Gómez-Peña uses his ability to convey powerful messages, with emphasis on race politics. Staff Writer Sierra Smith illustrates his performance art piece beautifully in this week’s issue.

Read the story on page 5

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 Healdsburg Printing. 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.

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Letter writers may expect prompt publication in the newspaper’s op-ed section, as space is available. Letters of up to 500 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.

May 12 - May 18, 2015

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Liberal arts college graduates face uphill battle in the job market

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et another academic year is coming to a close at Sonoma State University. For hundreds of graduating seniors, this means being unceremoniously thrown into today’s competitive job market.

The reality of the situation is that today’s job market isn’t the same one our parents entered; it’s far more competitive and less forgiving.

Critics increasingly suggest a liberal arts education is a luxury American university can no longer afford and propose vocational or trade schools as possible solutions.

However, the loss of a more broadbased and worldly education offered by liberal arts universities is too alarming for some to seriously consider alternate forms of education.

Regardless of what direction colleges and universities head in the future, there are many ways graduating students today can better their chances of success in the face of steep competition.

Several factors have shaped the present state of the job market, stacking the cards against new college graduates in search of a first time job. The exploding numbers of young people seeking a higher education is largely to blame.

Schools throughout the country struggle to accommodate the influx of new students seen over the last few decades. As a result, schools have a whole bevy of new expenses associated with new staff, infrastructure and programs needed to serve a growing student body.

Funding for higher education has been significantly reduced in many states, leaving schools no choice but to increase tuition costs. In California, the portion of the state’s budget allocated towards funding education has been declining since the 1970s, a similar trend in many states.

The soaring price of higher education in the U.S. has caused the total student debt to skyrocket, surpassing 1.2 trillion dollars.

According to U.S. News, The average student today leaves college with 30,000 dollars of debt; a heavy burden to bear that only raises the stakes for them to attain employment.

The dire condition of American higher education has swayed more analysts to entertain the idea of expanding trade or vocational forms of education rather than a liberal arts education, as a means to remedy this situation.

These styles of education focus more intensely on a specific subject or skillset rather than delving into many different topics all at once.

Such a system already exists in several countries including Germany, where students test after grade 10 to determine whether they can apply to institutions of higher education, or alternatively, attend a trade or vocational school.

This type of system significantly re-

STAR // Eddie Blake

Regardless of what direction colleges and universities head in the future, there are many ways graduating students today can better their chances of success in the face of steep competition. duces the numbers of university students that severely impact American schools.

Additionally, the present government in Germany places a high priority on education, allocating a far greater portion of its budget to schools so that tuition in most cases is essentially free.

What benefits of liberal arts schools would be lost if they were replaced with trade or vocational schools?

Columnist Fareed Zakaria said in his recent book, “In Defense of the Liberal Arts,” that “writing forces you to make choices and brings clarity and order to your ideas.” Writing, organization, as well as critical and abstract thinking skills are all important areas of focus in a liberal arts education. The repercussions of a trade or vocational orientated system of higher education could include the decline of these skill sets.

On the other hand, a move away from liberal arts education could include the added benefit of boosting math and science scores. American students lag woefully behind most other nations in these areas.

Less focus on the humanities may be the necessary price to pay if the American workforce is to remain competitive with the rest of the world in the future.

Networking before graduation is becoming increasingly important for students who want a head start in entering their de-

sired field.

Internships, volunteering and other forms of networking are especially important for graduates who are entering more obscure fields, where potential jobs are less accessible. The technology that makes life easier or more entertaining for people also works against us. Social media, such as linkedin.com, level the playing field for new graduates in search of jobs. Employers can now access a much larger pool of qualified potential future employees.

This increasing Internet networking also comes with negative repercussions on how we are assessed or perceived by our employers.

Never before have one’s talents and experiences become so quantifiable, so black and white, as they have with online applications and resumes.

These tools benefit employers by allowing an easy cross comparison between potential employees at the expense of stripping applicants of any chance to express other personal strengths better conveyed in person.

Although the challenge of getting an ideal job after graduation is more challenging in ways previous generations never had to cope with, it is our reality today and we must face it head on.

Ruminating over and analyzing the factors that have contributed to the exceedingly competitive state of the job market today only gets us so far. The harsh reality of our increasingly globalized world is that fierce competition is the new norm.

If American students today are to lead the competition in the future, we must rise to meet today’s challenges.

We must put equal parts vigor into fixing our institutions of learning for the benefit of all.

We must also assume personal responsibility to reach our greatest potential of performance. We have no other choice.

Editorial Policy: The commentary expressed in the unsigned editorial represents a majority opinion of the STAR Editorial Board on a topic facing the campus community in keeping with journalistic precedents of other major newspapers, and may not be shared by all staff writers. The board encourages readers to write letters to the editor about all topics, including the editorial.

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We’d like to read it.

The STAR welcomes and encourages letters to the editor and guest submissions. For more information, read the left sidebar for our policies on editorials and letters to the editor.

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Opinion

May 12 - May 18, 2015

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Page 3

The freshman to senior year time warp

Olivia Johnson Staff Writer STAR // Kadie Anderson

Productive habits shape destiny

Alexis Mills STAR Contributor

E

ach individual’s future is shaped through his or her habits, daily routines and behaviors.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then is not an act but a habit,” said Will Durant, an American writer, historian and philosopher. Each person has millions of habits, but the majority of people don’t think of their behaviors as habits that will shape their future.

Through reading the New York Times best seller, “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg, I was enlightened and began to reflect on my daily habits. One habit I have is that the first thing I do every morning is check the time on my phone and end up getting sucked into all the social media sites and texting back friends. This became a habit I was unconscious of, but it was an action that soon became a daily routine.

I was beginning my day getting lost in my phone when in reality, I wish I was getting a different, more motivational start to my day. Duhigg’s book taught me how habits work and how people have the ability to change them. Bad habits don’t have to control people’s lives, and if more people understood how habits work, they would then take control of their present and future life.

“A habit is just a behavior that you do consistently. The question is how to get people to do the behaviors that make people’s life meaningful,” said Sonoma State Professor and performance psychologist Glenn Brassington.

Habits are a three-step process that first start with a trigger, which is what compels the person to act on the habit. The trigger could be anything, the time of a day,

an emotion, a location, a preceding event or another person. Second, after the trigger, the routine follows. Lastly, there is a benefit from the routine to which the person associates the habit. If there isn’t a benefit from a behavior, then people wouldn’t repeatedly do something.

If there is a habit that a person wants to change, the first step is to recognize what is triggering the routine. Once a person is able to recognize the trigger, they can use that same trigger to overlap with the new habit.

But the key is to keep the same trigger and reward, while consciously changing the routine from your bad habit to something positive. Having a bad habit is not an excuse, each person is responsible for his or her own actions and has the ability to change his or her behavior.

“Perhaps a sleep-walking murderer can plausibly argue that he wasn’t aware of his habit, and so he doesn’t bear responsibility for his crime, but almost all of the other patterns that exist in most people’s lives — how we eat and sleep and talk to our kids, how we unthinkingly spend our time, attention and money — those are habits that we know exist,” said Duhigg in The Power of Habit, “And once you understand that habits can change, you have the freedom and the responsibility to remake them.

Once you understand that habits can be rebuilt, the power of habit becomes easier to grasp and the only option left is to get to work.”

Say you have a bad habit of being lazy instead of exercising, that would be your routine. What you need to find is what’s triggering you to be lazy and what benefits you get from the routine. Then associate a new habit with that same trigger and reward to basically overlap your bad habit. Remember, you can’t extinguish a bad habit you can only change it.

I truly believe that if people recognize their good and bad habits they can then reshape them to what they want to be in order to shape their future. Making choices every day takes an effort, but once you make a habit it becomes automatic. You no lon-

ger have to make a conscious effort to make that choice because it has become habituated.

“We create habits that make you consciously create thoughts, feelings and behaviors,” said Brassington.

During a person’s college career, they are not as concerned with forming good habits that will form their future. The majority or stereotypes of college students are known to have a unhealthy diets filled with junk food, binge-drinking and not worrying about exercising.

The reason most students and people keep unhealthy behaviors was found in the well-known copy machine study by psychologist Ellen Langer in 1977. The study discovered the secret word behind our behavior is “because” and as long as we have a justifiable reason for our behavior then it will drive it.

As for college students, if students are going out to party on a regular basis and engage in binge-drinking they keep doing it because they make a justifiable reason in their head. Such as, “I can continuously drink alcohol because I am in college and once I graduate I will have to become more serious.” But, the truth is that if a person is creating a habit to drink from a certain trigger then it will remain a habit that will continue to later years, not depending on whether you are in college or not.

Life is happening right now and in order to achieve goals it starts with the present moment. People need to realize they are accountable for the decisions that they make and each decision they make is creating them to be the person they will be in the future. For a person who is trying to achieve success, focusing on personal behavior and daily routines is crucial. In order to achieve success you have to build habits that are constantly moving toward your goals. Just like a puzzle, piece by piece you fit each behavior together to reach achievements based on the habits that you keep.

“Motivation is what gets you started.

Habit is what keeps you going,” said Jim Ryan, former player for the Denver Broncos.

I

t really is crazy how fast your college experience goes by. It all starts off on move-in day. Meeting strangers that become your roommates, walking around campus thinking how big it seems. Everything is so new and exciting. And then before you know it, you blink and it’s now about to be your senior year of college.

Now everything is totally different. You’ve experienced so much and have met so many new people.

Thinking back to freshman year you realize how much you’ve changed as an individual. For the past three years you’ve grown and matured each day without even realizing it.

Maybe it was the opportunities you’ve experienced, the friends you’ve made, the things you have learned.

Maybe it is the fact that the years you spend in college are also the years you transition into an adult.

When first coming to college a person is usually fresh out of high school, still a teenager. It is tends to be obvious who the freshmen are on campus.

As a freshman, you don’t see it but once you get a little older you can tell. They are the ones who still look like children, because they are. Especially boys. Boys grow physically so much during their time in college.

They go from having a teenager body to more muscular and manly as their shoulders get bigger and broader.

But the biggest change you go through in college isn’t exactly physical, it’s mental. Not only are you learning so much about the world from your classes, you start to learn who you are as an individual.

You no longer have your

parents to hide behind as they make decisions for you.

You are on your own making important decisions for yourself. Graduating senior Nayeli Lopez shares her biggest growing period was freshman year.

“Before I came to Sonoma my mom pretty much did everything for me,” said Lopez. “So my first year away at college, and away from my mom, I was finally able to feel independent. I could dress how I wanted, do my hair however I wanted, spend my days doing things that I planned. I just felt so free and by the end of the year I felt more like myself than ever. I knew what I wanted to do with my life and I knew how I wanted to go about it.”

That first year away from your parents is filled with freedom and adventure.

You’re away at a new place and surrounded by mystery as everything around you is unfamiliar territory.

The excitement typically does cause a little craziness and the amount of fun you begin to have makes you question how is this even legal? You can’t believe your parents would actually be promoting this going away to college thing.

But after the first two years of college you get a little bit older and a little wiser and you start to realize what’s important and what’s not.

“By my junior year I had to get a job,” said Sonoma State University student Alyssa Farber. “ I was also done with my GEs and taking only major classes. That’s when I realized my priorities needed to change a bit. I needed all of my energy to go towards my school work and not being dead at work.”

As the years go on you start to get the whole college thing down. You’ve learned how to study, what GE classes to take and which ones to avoid, how important it is to have your professor know your name, and lastly you’ve learned that there is such as thing as true friends.

College is nothing else but a learning experience, mentally and emotionally.

Equal oportunity threatened by college expenses

I

Kayla E. Galloway News Editor

magine a nation where one can receive a free college education regardless of whether or not they are a citizen. Now imagine a nation where the cost of higher education has increased by 500 percent over the last 30 years and student loan debt is more than $1.2 trillion.

The first country is Germany, where students, no matter their place of birth, have access to a free higher education. The latter is the United States, a nation built on the American dream that says with hard work, one can

achieve prosperity no matter social class.

Higher education is becoming increasingly inaccessible for young people in the U.S. for many reasons that don’t include a lack of student’s determination or motivation to succeed.

Many young people have the goal of earning a college degree but simply don’t have the means to support that goal. With the rising costs of college, is the American dream dead, or have the requirements to achieve the dream simply changed?

When children grow up, many are told, “You can be anything you want to be when you grow up,” or “Follow your dreams.” For many, those dreams include getting an education, becoming an astronaut, a lawyer or a doctor. But what is difficult to grasp when growing up is oftentimes those dreams or goals are dependent on the size of your bank account.

I always knew I wanted to go to college when growing up. I never had the question of “Am I going to go to college?” It was always, “Where am I going to go?” As I approached my senior year of high school, I began to un-

derstand the financial hardships college presents and wondered if I would be able to make it through college.

According to U.S. News, the annual salary of a college graduate age 25 to 32 earns approximately $17,500 more than that of a high school graduate. The gap between salaries of college and high school graduates has increased by nearly $10,000 in the last 40 years.

U.S. News attributes the widening gap to not the increasing value of a college degree, but the decreasing value of a high school diploma.

In March 2013, the unemployment rate for college degree-holders from four-year universities ages 25 to 32 was 3.8 percent, while those who earned a high school diploma among the same age group have a unemployment rate of 12.8 percent.

Is the job market simply more competitive for high school graduates or are jobs normally held by high school diploma-earners now being taken by college graduates because of a changing market?

According to the College Board, the aver-

age cost of college tuition in the U.S. is $9,139 for state residents at public universities, $31,231 for students at private universities and $22,958 for out-of-state residents at public universities.

Where does Sonoma State University lie on the spectrum of college costs? For undergraduate students at Sonoma State in the 20152016 year, tuition is $3,665 per semester with an additional $929 per semester for campusbased fees. For many, the cost of tuition is covered by financial aid, but what happens to those families who make too much money to qualify for financial aid but too little to pay for a college education?

Many students are forced to take out thousands upon thousands of dollars in loans each year, leaving students with the burden of college debt for years and even decades following their college graduation. With a college degree becoming increasingly difficult to earn, what options are left for students looking for their American dream without the financial burden?

Move to Germany.

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News

May 12 - May 18, 2015

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Loan debt continues to plague college students

S

Michelle Welling Staff Writer

en. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) believes college should be more affordable for students in America, and she’s not alone. In fact, at least 250,000 people agree with her. In 2013, Warren created a petition as part of her first-ever Senate bill to set the student loan interest rate to the level offered to big banks by the Federal Reserve.

The petition, which sparked support of more than 250,000 MoveOn.org members - a community of more than 8 million Americans focusing on progressive issues was rejected by Senate Republicans this past March - just a week after its launch. Senators voted 46-53 against Warren’s amendment to the Republican budget resolution.

Warren’s amendment would have allowed people with college loan debt to refinance at a 3.9 percent interest rate from the 2013-2014 academic year, through a budget policy that would have required

millionaires to pay a 30 percent effective federal tax rate - an increase from the 24.7 percent rate in 2014. The interest rate of student loans can vary greatly, and is determined by the year in which the loan is first borrowed. The largest student loan program is the Federal Direct Loan, which offers loans that are subsidized and unsubsidized.

“The interest rates have changed over the years, but currently the Direct Loans are offered with fixed rates,” said Financial Aid Office Director, Susan Gutierrez. “For undergraduate or credential students borrowing for the 2014-2015 school year, the interest rate on their Direct Loan is fixed at 4.66 percent.”

However, the year-by-year fluctuation in interest rates is projected to produce quite the financial turnover. In a recent interview on “The Daily Show with John Stewart”, Warren explained that the student loans taken out in years 2007-2012 alone are on target to produce $66 billion in profit for the United States government. In the same interview, Stew-

art pointed out that big banks in America have been taking out loans from the Federal Reserve for years at a rate next to zero percent.

“This shows how much more corporations and especially big banks are in focus of politics,” said political science student Ralf Esperschidt. “Politicians shouldn’t forget that education is the capital of tomorrow. Fair interest rates on student loans would encourage more young people to attend college. Education is key and student loans, which are hard to pay back, are a burden for students who strive for success.”

In total, the U.S. student loan debt now exceeds $1 trillion, making it the second largest debt in American households, following mortgages.

For many students who enter college, an undergraduate degree is a ticket to a secure financial future with the idea of being able to land more competitive employment positions and in turn make a larger salary than those in the job market without a degree. However, a Federal Re-

serve study conducted shortly after the petition’s launch revealed there are more disparities in this generation of young adults than just those with or without a college degree. A new divergence of borrowers and non-borrowers of student loans is emerging, and its existence is making waves in the U.S. economy. The study found for the first time in 10 years young workers with college debt are less likely to have mortgages or car loans.

“I think most students taking student loans in the United States have the feeling that they’re not in the hearts and minds of this congress,” said Nicolas Carjuzaa, a business student with a Bachelor’s degree from Sonoma State University and Paris West University, Nanterre La Defere.

“When I graduated from a European university, I signed a check for a grand total of 238€ ($280 USD) and received my degree. A friend of mine here financed his entire degree with loans, and for the last few years he’s been paying only interest and hasn’t breached his principal [loan].”

At a university where over half the

student population receives some kind of financial aid - be it scholarship, fee waivers, grants, or students loans - being able to pay for education is a prominent agenda item for many students and families.

“Approximately 64 percent of SSU students receive some sort of financial aid,” said Gutierrez. “The basic cost of a CSU education is still one of the best bargains in the country. Unfortunately, the living expenses associated with students going to their first-choice CSU might mean that students and their parents take on considerable educational debt. Students and their families have to make the decision of what level of educational loan debt is an acceptable investment for them.”

Whether a reformed version of Warren’s petition will resurface in years to come is up to speculation. In the meantime, U.S. undergraduate students continue to pay more on loans for education than big financial institutions do in order to finance businesses.

OFFICERS: Preparing for upcoming year Continued from Pg. 1

STAR // Kayla E. Galloway According to the California State University, Latino and Mexican-American individuals make up 25.3 percent of Sonoma State University’s demographics as of fall 2014.

DEGREE ATTAINMENT: Latinos often opt for community college Continued from Pg. 1

Yet, translation of increased enrollment to degrees earned is smaller than other racial groups. According to U.S. Census Bureau data from 2011-13, 12 percent of Latinos in California age 25 to 64 achieved at least a bachelor’s degree. In comparison, whites achieved the same mark at 42 percent, Asian-Americans at 53 percent and AfricanAmericans at 23 percent.

“I think it’s up to college campuses to outreach to minority groups and ask how can universities support them better,” said Sandy EspinoValenciano, fourth-year psychology major.

Fidel A. Vargas, president and CEO of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, addressed a facet of this issue in a Sacramento Bee opinion piece last week. “Under-matching” is a term used when students who are well qualified to attend more selective colleges, choose not to attend.

Vargas cites a University of Southern California study in the Sacramento Bee, in which of the top 10 percent of Latino public high school graduates, nearly half choose to attend a community col-

lege, despite the fact they qualify for a four-year university.

“One of things we are doing at the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, is share information,” said Vargas. “We try to help young people understand, debunk myths or misperceptions about whether or not college is too expensive for them. In many cases it is just that, perceptions and misunderstandings which are keeping students from applying to schools they can easily be accepted to.”

Unique to the Latino experience in higher education, is the parallel growth of tuition and fee costs across the United States. From 20042013 alone, the average cost of tuition and fees for UC and CSU schools has increased from $4,000 to $9,000 according to Public Policy Institute of California.

“We are failing to prepare students for college.

This isn’t just about providing students with scholarships or giving them tours of colleges,” said Espino-Valenciano. “[it’s about] providing students with college preparation that actually supports them in college to,” said Espino-Valenciano.

Tuition and fee cost increases, cited in a Campaign for College Opportunity 2015 study, are the reason why many Latinos opt for community college.

“When you are faced with a choice between Stanford, Berkeley, UCLA or Cal State Bakersfield and all you see is the sticker price, and you don’t understand how financial aid works, or the Pell and CAL grant system works.

You might make a decision that’s not good for you and your future.,” said Vargas.

Another reason cited by the Campaign for College Opportunity study, is the unfamiliar path to-and-through college most Latinos students will take.

Latino students are left to navigate higher education by themselves since their parents are unlikely to have any experience.

Vargas said a problem exists with low graduation rates among Latinos and all minority groups because it is necessary for all who have the ability, to graduate and address what he defines as the “underutilization of incredible human capital.”

According to the Public Policy of California, it is esti-

mated up to 2.3 million additional college educated workers will be needed by 2025.

The demand will likely fall on Latinos who have blossomed to 38 percent of the population in California at 15 million. Those figures are likely to increase as one of every two children born in the state is of Latino descent, according to the Campaign for College Opportunity study.

Educational strides for Latino are evident with examination of high school graduation rates. In 1990, 55 percent of Latinos over the age of 25 did not have a diploma. In 2013, the number dropped to 41 percent.

Of important note is a correlation between nativeborn or foreign-born Latinos.

Older generations, primarily foreign-born, tend to have a lower percentage of college graduates and a higher percentage of no high school diplomas. Native-born Latinos are twice as likely to have college degrees and attain a high school diploma at a higher rate.

Ninety-four percent of Latinos under 18 are native born, which will likely continue the trend of higher educational attainment.

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Mercer said his primary goal in this position is to unite the university and help create a stronger bond between Associated Students and the student body. He feels as though people think student government has become somewhat irrelevant on this campus in recent years and wants to correct this misconception.

“Above all else the students elected me to advocate on their behalf,” he said. “I am calling on our student population to bring their ideas forward as to how we can make long-lasting, positive change on our campus; utilize your school-specific senator, reach out to our officers and let your voice be heard so that these issues can be brought to the table and discussed.”

Mercer said he wants students to know that student government representatives are available through all forms of communication and urges them to email or meet with them in person to relay their thoughts about what changes should be made on campus.

The new president also praised Sonoma State students for voting in favor of the fee referendum in March in order to fund vital campus services; however he feels as though not enough is being done financially in support of students.

He believes the campus is in a critical time considering the state of the economy, post-recession.

“As the economy picks up,” said Mercer, “it will be interesting to see whether Sonoma State and the State of California will make a commitment to our students and expand our current services or whether students will continue to bear the burden of greater fees in order to support the education they deserve.”

The new Associated Students president has taken on a variety of leadership positions and has served on multiple committees alongside higher administration.

He is comfortable speaking to those people on behalf of all Sonoma State students and hopes they will see eye-to-eye on issues presented.

“I have come to the

realization that I am not going into meetings alone as me versus the university,” said Mercer.

“I am going into those rooms with roughly 9,300 students behind me. This institution would not be here without our students showing up every day. We need to demand more; more classes, more high-level faculty, more services, and above all else, more right to dictate the future of Sonoma State in all regards.”

While Mercer hopes to be the catalyst for big changes on this campus, he also hopes to become a relatable friend to students.

When he isn’t overwhelmed with student government, he likes to play golf and focus on fitness. However, his free time has drastically diminished since taking on this new position.

“I have quickly become enthralled in the student government lifestyle,” said Mercer. “As finals wrap up I can’t wait for the new semester to begin and our new senate to begin passing legislation and serving our students.”

COMMENCEMENT: Students reflect Continued from Pg. 1

studies, and communications and media studies.

“Sonoma State has prepared me for my future by giving me the opportunity to gain skills that are vital in the real world,” said communications and media studies major, Jackie Torres.

When asked what her favorite thing about Sonoma State is, Torres said, “The opportunities that campus clubs and organizations on campus gave such as leadership skills and figuring out my passion is through the Associated Students.”

After graduation, Torres will be exploring Northern California while applying for event planning jobs and looking to move back

to southern California.

Speaking at commencement will be graduating senior Adam Rosenkranz.

Rosenkranz, a business major with an emphasis on finance, believes college is a chance for students to discover themselves and shape their identities.

“College is a time where you begin to define your future self and the most defining moments are generally the most challenging.

Relish and embrace those challenges,” said Rosekranz.

Rosenkranz is thankful for his experiences at Sonoma State and believes his time at the university has developed him into the person he is today.

“The many leadership experiences that I engaged in during my

time at Sonoma State were invaluable to my development as a person,” said Rosenkranz.

“I learned how to articulate my thoughts with clarity, prioritize my responsibilities, work collaboratively and most importantly, I learned how to manage stress.”

The commencement will take place on the commencement lawn by the lakes.

There will be two, three-hour commencement ceremonies.

The first one will begin at 9 a.m. for the School of Arts and Humanities, School of Business and Economics, and the School of Education. The second will begin at 3 p.m. for the School of Science and Technology and the School of Social Sciences.

Arts

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Commencement sculptures showcased across campus Gustavo Vasquez STAR Contributor

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dvanced art students have been working all semester for the Commence 2015 sculpture project, a public art exhibition showcasing works done in three-dimensional forms.

Students created their own concepts and ideas, in a variety of materials-bronze, wood, steel, plaster and ceramic are some of the materials used this morning.

The course gives students real hands-on experience in what it’s like to propose public sculpture and build them. “[Commencement sculpture project] definitely gives you insight into what is necessary when you install art pieces in the public sphere,” said Dino Sbardellati, art student. “It was a whole entire process. We had to choose where to install, we had to choose what we wanted to install, we had to provide scale models and project proposals.”

Eleven students have been working all semester in Commencement Sculpture, a class taught by Jann Nunn. “ I started teaching here in 1999, and it’s always been my focus to do exhibitions, either on or off campus,” said Nunn. “Commencement sculpture project grew out of that.”

Bachelor of fine art students in the Commence 2015 sculpture project includes James Blake, who built “Print Cart,” a working and portable wood block printing state, Briona Rachelle, who built “Thumb’s Up, Seven Up” a life size bronze figure playing the traditional child’s game thumb’s up seven up, Jessica Levey who built “Tunnel of Love, a sculpture out of steel and ceramic, and Andrew Scanlon who built “Holons,” a sculpture out of steel rings towering up.

Bachelor of Arts students including Martin Gilbertson, who built “Go North” a sculpture

made of corten steel and redwood, Eduardo Hernandez, who built “Somebody” out of plaster and steel, Victoria Helena Mihatovic, who built “Monolith 16.9.3,” tall steel sculpture associated with the prison system, Jessica Noyes, who built “Pyramidal Biomes” out of steel, terminal cable and plants, Dino Sbardellati, who built “Planetary Husk” out of steel, Sean Patrick Shadduck, who built “Tribute to Hashimoto” out of wood, steel and nylon, and Michael Walton, who built “Dai 3 no keiro geto~ei,” made out of wood and metal.

“I wanted to represent knowledge in my piece,” said Sbardellati. “It’s a commentary on humans and how we use knowledge.”

“It was definitely a good experience to gain in becoming a professional artist,” said Rachelle.

“We jumped a lot of hurdles of how to propose and install in a public space, and the hurdles you have to overcome.”

Most sculptures have been up since last week, but many like Blake’s “Print Cart” will only be on display and operation during commencement day. The artist reception and Briona Rachelle’s life size bronze sculpture has yet to be installed.

“It was definitely a good experience to gain in becoming a professional artist,” said Rachelle. “We jumped a lot of hurdles of how to propose and install in a public space, and the hurdles you have to overcome.”

There will be a reception for the artists on Wednesday, May 13 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Art Building sculpture Courtyard, directly afterwards there will be a tour of the sculptures on campus at 6 p.m.

STAR // Gustavo Vasquez Eleven Sonoma State University students have been working throughout the semester as part of the Commencement Sculpture course to create art showcased throughout campus in days approaching commencement.

Reverse-anthropologist enlightens campus Sierra Smith Staff Writer

Review

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his is performance art,” said Chicano Latino Studies major Amanda Martinez-Morrison, “It’s not a typical medium for Weill Hall.”

She was absolutely right.

Reverse anthropologist Guillermo Gómez-Peña graced Sonoma State University with his presence Wednesday evening with his performance titled, “Imaginary Activism: The Role of the Artist Beyond the Art World” as part of the Latino Art Performance and Social Justice series at Sonoma State University.

Martinez-Morrison presented Gómez-Peña on stage to an audience full of Sonoma State Students. “He is a postnational Mexican gone rogue,” Martinez-Morrison said.

Gómez-Peña is known to illustrate various forms of selfexpression, such as spoken poetry, to create a conversation about his main focus regarding the politics of Latinos in America.

With his performance activism, Gomez-Peña forces his audience to examine culture, race, sexuality and stereotypes in relation to American Soci-

ety.

Since Gómez-Peña thrives on an intimacy with his audience, the audience was asked to sit as close to the stage as possible. After the audience obliged, Gómez-Peña stalked onto the stage wearing black leather boots, tight-fit pants with a skirt-like fabric hanging from around his hips, a studded belt, blazer, and a black hat.

He didn’t speak initially.

Instead, he grasped a fragrance spray and ferociously sprayed it in each direction of the stage.

He began his first spoken poetry piece: “There is no place like no home.”

Following his first piece, he engaged his audience by asking them questions, such as how many people identified as white or people of color in the audience.

The rest of the evening included more spoken poetry in both English and Spanish, along with many hand gestures to emphasize the importance of the topics he discussed.

One of the subjects he discussed was about the criminalization of the Spanish language.

“Then change the names of all the cities [in the U.S.],” said Gómez-Peña.

He followed this with a list of city names of Spanish decent as well as other words and

phrases from the Chicano and Latino culture, such as ‘hasta la vista.’

Gómez-Peña touched upon current events in one of his pieces.

“Black lives matter,” he said, “brown and red lives matter. Even white lives matter.”

He followed these short, yet extremely impactful phrases with the names of people that have been killed with no justification, such as Andy Lopez.

“Should I stage dive right now? Should I?” said GómezPeña towards the end of the evening.

The audience laughed and cheered, not thinking he was serious until he ran towards the back of the stage in a preparation stance to run into the audience.

Immediately, the audience closest to the stage rose to their feet and cheered.

To the surprise of many, Gómez-Peña charged at the audience and jumped into the arms of all who were sitting within the first three rows. After recovering himself back on stage, he asked. “So what is art?”

By the end of his performance, the audience gained insight into Gómez-Peña’s perspective of art and its role in the political society of America. “Why is society not listening, not listening to its artists?”

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Best of Sonoma State

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Best Campus Event: Big Nite

STAR // Connor Gibson Sonoma State University students partake in carnival rides and games at Big Nite 2013. The event is now held in parking lot D.

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Gustavo Vasquez STAR Contributor

ach year, incoming freshmen are unsure what to expect when coming to a school like Sonoma State University, with it’s 269 acres and student population of over 9,200; resembling a small town rather than an institution of learning.

Big Nite, run by university staff and students, is an opening extravaganza to welcome new and returning students the first week of school.

The night is an all out event to bring clubs, local businesses and on campus organizations all to one place at Lot D, the Student Center and Rec Center.

“The idea was to get people to the Student Union at the time, to get people to the Commons, to show them that area,” said Mo Phillips, Director of Campus Life. “It was about bringing people together.”

When Phillips started Big Nite, she commented that the average age of a student at

“It is truly a campus community event and I’m really proud of that and what it’s grown into,” said Phillips.

Sonoma State was 28, rather than the current 18-20 age group that can be seen today.

“It is truly a campus community event and I’m really proud of that and what it’s grown into,” said Phillips. “I’m always excited to see what next year is going to look like.”

Phillips shared that before Big Nite, Sonoma State had nothing going on to create community with the students on campus. The campus closed at 5 p.m.

Big Nite is now a tradition at Sonoma State, organized the beginning of every year to welcome incoming students and to create a sense of community at Sonoma State.

An estimated five to six thousand students attended last year’s Big Nite, and Phillips sounded confident that next year’s Big Nite will have the same turnout, if not bigger.

“When I think of Big Nite, I think of it as being the first big thing to happen on campus,” said Brandon Plair-Holmes, Community Service Advisor and future Associated Students Productions Programming Director. “I feel Big Nite really sets the tone, it builds that confidence, especially as a freshman.”

Describing himself as a “Super Senior,” Plair-Holmes recalls when Big Nite was at the lawn in front of the Student Union, which is now International Hall.

“Being here for four years and seeing the evolution of it [Big Nite] when it was over next to Salazar and just being in the grass field and the only thing that was there was tables and stuff like that,” said Plair-Holmes. “It’s crazy, it’s big, it’s huge, it’s essentially really Big Nite now.”

When Big Nite first started, about 900 students lived on campus, at Cabernet village, Zinfandel village and Verdot village.

Now Sonoma State consists of 3,100 students living on campus in the residence halls: Cabernet village, Zinfandel village, Verdot village, Sauvignon village, Beaujolais village and Tuscany village.

“BigNite this year is going to be bigger than ever,” said Emily Wirdzek, Kinesiology Major and Campus Life Programer. “I like Big Nite because it’s a chance for everyone to get together, talk about their summer, hangout, take pictures, talk about the year to come and have fun.”

Plans for Big Nite in Fall 2015 is still in the works, and not much could be said on what it will entail; Phillips encourages anyone to contact her to create a bigger and better Big Nite.

“A lot of people say there’s nothing to do here, there’s nothing on campus, nothing to do around here,” said Plair-Holmes. “But Big Nite is one of those places that you can start to actually see what there is going on around here.”

Best Least-Appreciated Place on Campus: The duck pond Dylan Sirdofsky STAR Contributor

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mong places students attend regularly, like the library or bookstore, appreciation for what’s in front of them can be lost at times, even with a campus reputation for beauty like Sonoma State University. In the Best of 2015, voters’ top least appreciated places on campus included the duck pond, the Student Center’s third floor patio and the Rec Center’s spa.

“People don’t take advantage of it as much, and that’s what makes it nice because there’s not as many people around,” said freshman environmental studies major Emily Rosa, describing the duck pond. “Sit, relax and hear the fountain, or the creek’s right over there, and the quiet is what makes it nice, so if people appreciated it more then maybe it wouldn’t be as nice.” Lindsay Nute and Natasha Holtz, freshmen Hutchins liberal studies majors, agree the duck pond is a nice place to relax in nature and read in-between classes. “It’s not really the first place you think of, like the library or something,” said Holtz.

“Just come out and relax with the calmness of nature,” said Nute.

Being on the farther end of campus, southeast of the Green Music Center parking lots, the duck pond’s highest chance of appreciation may come on Saturday’s Commencement 2015, with many making their way to the lawn near the Lakes.

With it being finals week, students are more likely to stay in one place for a lengthy period of time—not to name names, but the University Li-

brary. Ironically, the Student Center’s third floor patio may be in the middle of its least appreciated week on campus as a result.

While being fairly hidden, the patio is an open area for students to study and relax with a view of the Seawolf Plaza. Despite going unnoticed, it can best serve those who prefer to be alone and get fresh air from atop one of the newer buildings on campus.

Right on opposite sides of the plaza is the Rec Center, which students may use during finals week to give themselves downtime from all the sit-down study sessions. The Rec Center’s spa, however, is one place senior history major and building supervisor at the Campus Rec Center, Domenic Vaiasicca, said isn’t being utilized very often.

“One: Because no one really uses it. And two: No one knows about it,” said Vaiasicca. “It is hidden, yet, working at the Rec you know it’s here and it’s our duty to check every hour if people are here or not.”

Vaiasicca said people usually think of the big pool in the kinesiology department, and are mind-blown when they find out the Rec Center has a spa, which can be found passing through the bathrooms. He said the spa can fit 10-12 people, and is a good way to relax with friends or help reduce muscle soreness and stiffness.

The Student Center’s third-floor patio is to the left of the bathrooms, and the building is open 24 hours a day on finals week. The Rec Center’s finals week schedule is Monday to Thursday, 6 a.m. to midnight, Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

STAR // Niquie Wilson Ducks aren’t the only ones who appreciate the duck pond as a hangout spot on campus.

STAR // Gustavo Vasquez Hikers enjoy a day in the sun while visiting Annadel State Park in Santa Rosa.

Best Hike: Annadel State Park Peter Njoroge STAR Contributor

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here are many things that run through one’s head when deciding to go on a hike. Major factors to most hikes are usually the weather, length and safety. Santa Rosa’s Annadel State Park delivers the last two if the conditions are right, and it recently took first place in the Sonoma State STAR’s Best of poll.

With 10 major, or “legal,” trails, Annadel is convenient in terms of size and location.

With minimal traffic, one can get on Petaluma Hill Road from Sonoma State University and take a right on Crane Canyon Road, which eventually takes one to Santa Rosa.

Once there, Annadel is accessible in many ways. A popular entry point is through a neighborhood entrance on Summerfield Road.

The hike usually starts on a paved road and gradually gets steeper and into the natural areas in minutes time.

One important aspect about Annadel is the amount of cyclists that are sometimes present. From a hiker’s perspective, this isn’t much of a problem other than the act of being courteous by moving to either side of the trail one is on.

Further, according to the map at the entrance, the state park offers camping areas,

parking, picnic areas and restrooms.

The longest trail, called Steve’s Trail or “S Trail,” runs 8 miles and reaches 879 feet in elevation at its peak.

The shortest is Channel Trail, which runs about a mile and reaches 390 feet in elevation at its peak.

The park is considered a day-park, which means it’s open from sunrise to sunset, according to the map. If one is prepared in context to having water, appropriate clothing and ample time for breaks, the hikes are rather enjoyable.

A popular curated area called “stonerock couch” offers a literal makeshift couch from the variety of rocks at a steep point on one of the longer trails.

Despite this being a “secret spot,” it’s usually left to hikers to find for themselves.

Be warned, it’s a popular place for “smoke breaks” along the trail. The view from the couch is expansive and covers much of Santa Rosa’s skyline.

In general, Annadel offers lengthy hiking trails for both beginners and advanced hikers.

With the abundance in natural scenery as well as views at the many peaks, this park is ideal for decompressing and coming back to equilibrium. As with any hike, it’s always fun when accompanied by close friends.

Annadel State Park is located on 6201 Channel Drive, Santa Rosa and close to both Spring Lake and Howarth Park.

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Best of the North Bay

Page 7

Best Happy Hour: Mi Ranchito Alexis Mills STAR Contributor

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t’s not surprising that Mi Ranchito was voted Sonoma State University’s favorite happy hour. Its happy hour is available Monday through Friday from 3-7 p.m., making it one of the most accessible in the area.

It’s traditional Mexican ambiance, filled with lively colors provides an entertaining environment to enjoy cheap, delicious margaritas and authentic Mexican food.

STAR // Niquie Wilson The healthier fast food chain Chipotle Mexican Grill proves to be a popular choice among Sonoma State students.

Best Burrito: Chipotle Mexican Grill Dylan Sirdofsky STAR Contributor

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efore opening its doors to Rohnert Park in spring 2013, Chipotle Mexican Grill made a name for itself as one of the top healthy chain restaurants, specializing in tacos and burritos. It’s no wonder the latter was chosen Best of 2015 by voters, beating out Mi Ranchito Mexican Restaurant and Oliver’s Market.

“I feel we put our heart and soul into our food, we really do care about our customer,” said Chipotle Crew Member Alexis Lopez.

“We go out of our way to become GMO free, we’re hoping we start a trend. We give everything we have to our customers; I think that’s why we give out the best burritos, obviously.”

When it comes to genetically modified ingredients, Chipotle became the first national restaurant chain to cook without them as of April 27 according to USA Today, after being the initial company to disclose what they were.

The mission statement, “Food with Integrity,” sheds light on the company’s goal of using organic ingredients to create simple and fresh food. Chipotle sources from farms instead of factories, spending more on its components than most other restaurants.

“I really like their idea of Food with Integrity, and that they respect our food,” said thirdyear business major Daniel Rivera. “I like that they made it faster and a lot healthier. They really seem to be the trendsetter for other fastfood restaurants.”

From the millennial perspective, fast-ca-

sual dining is becoming the norm according to Consumer Reports’ 2014 survey, indicating a tendency for the generation to seek out higher quality, authentic and healthy meals, despite having to pay more.

Chipotle’s marketing strategy and modern aesthetic caters to college towns, as evidence by its September 2013 text message-based sweepstakes, where participants were given the chance to win an “Ultimate Dorm Party” with up to 40 people by sending a code to a 6-digit number.

However, college students and younger crowds aren’t the only ones riding the Chipotle train. Barbara and Michael Mitchell, residents of Rohnert Park for 35 years, said perhaps the most important thing about the company’s burritos.

“The meat is very f lavorful,” said Barbara Mitchell. “All about the taste,” said Michael Mitchell.

If being tasty and not too expensive for a student’s budget wasn’t enough, Chipotle now partners with the food delivery app Postmates, bringing its burritos to the front doors of 66 cities in the United States, according to The Huffington Post.

Two possible downsides include the hefty charge for this service, and Rohnert Park not being on the list.

Yet with Sonoma State University ringing in plenty of potential customers, this could change.

Chipotle Mexican Grill in Rohnert Park is located at 6325 Commerce Blvd and is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day.

with an appetite, there is an array of delicious food options from quesadillas, nachos and taquitos to a sample taster platter if you want a little bit of it all.

Depending on personal appetite, most of their happy hour choices can be shared because of large portions. All the happy hour food options range from $4 to $7 for an inexpensive, tasty and filling meal. Mi Ranchito is Sonoma State student’s favorite happy hour destination to watch a soccer game, enjoy friend’s company or get a bite.

For those students that aren’t 21 or those with an appetite, there is an array of delicious food options from quesadillas, nachos and taquitos to a sample taster platter if you want a little bit of it all.

Students get their money’s worth with large portions that leave people stuffed without burning a hole in their pocket. The happy hour drink specials include regular house margaritas at $3.50 or house fruit margaritas at $4.50.

The flavors of margaritas: house, strawberry and mango, are all equally delicious depending on personal preference.

It’s hard to go wrong with margaritas at Mexican restaurants, especially at Mi Ranchito’s with the happy hour prices. Also, for those who prefer a cold refreshing beer, there are 16-ounce draft beers at $2.75 and 25-ounce draft beers for $4.99.

For those students that aren’t 21 or those

Mi Ranchito Mexican Restaurant is located at 7600 Commerce Blvd in Cotati. They are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Staurday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Their Happy Hour is held from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

STAR // Alexis Mills Mi Ranchito’s Mexican Reataruant is a Sonoma State student favorite as a result of low happy hour prices and delicious food.

Best Winery: Francis Ford Coppola Winery Jessie De La O STAR Contributor

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he Godfather,” “American Graffiti” and “Peggy Sue Got Married.” Although two of these three films were filmed in Petaluma, they all have one thing in common: Francis Ford Coppola, director of all three films and many more.

It was inevitable that the famous filmmaker’s next business venture would involve something he and Sonoma County are already synonymous for: wine.

After the former Chateau Souverain Winery in Geyserville closed its doors, Coppola purchased the building and in July 2010, the Francis Ford Coppola Winery opened its doors to the public.

From Chardonnay to Syrah to Cabernet Sauvignon, the winery houses a variety of tasteful wines. In fact, some of the wines are named after members of the Coppola family, including Francis’ wife Eleanor, his daughter Sofia and his Uncle Archimedes.

Coppola’s granddaughter has also followed in her famous

grandfather’s winemaking footsteps by producing her own wines, Gia by Gia Coppola, found under her grandfather’s wine label.

The chateau-like, family-friendly winery was modeled after the Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark. Coppola describes the winery as a “wine wonderland, a park of pleasure where people of all ages can enjoy all the best things in life—food, wine, music, dancing, games, swimming and performances of all types. A place to celebrate the love of life.”

It encompasses that and more, including: a full-service bar and smaller tasting bar—where visitors can enjoy a sip of wine before or after lunch or dinner; a restaurant called Rustic— where the food and desserts (the Chocolate Mousse tastes heavenly) are delectable; and the Movie Gallery—which displays memorabilia from Coppola’s five decades of filmmaking, including several of Coppola’s Academy Awards, props and costumes from some of his iconic films.

Francis Ford Coppola Winery also boasts a pavilion, bocce courts, two swimming pools, a pool cafe (open only SpringFall) and cabins (Italian for cabanas). Reservations are highly recommended for the use of the pools and cabins, as well as for dining at Rustic.

It’s no wonder why many people, including Sonoma State University students and their visiting families, visit the majestic winery every year.

“I enjoy the atmosphere and the restaurant itself. Coppola is a fantastic director,” said junior Alex McDermott. “I’m not a wine guy, but the winery has a good reputation, is noteworthy and the facility is nice.” With vineyards overlooking the Alexander Valley area, the picturesque landscape of the Francis Ford Coppola Winery is a wine and film buffs’ paradise.

The winery also believes in practicing sustainability and has been committed to being environmentally friendly by seeking out unique ways to reduce its impact on the environment. From sustainably farmed acres to recycled packaging, the winery makes every effort to reduce its carbon footprint.

Francis Ford Coppola Winery is located at 300 Via Archimedes in Geyserville, and is open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information about the winery, call 707-857-1471. Rustic restaurant is open daily, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For details or to make a reservation at Rustic, call 707-857-1485. Visit the winery’s website at: www.francisfordcoppolawinery.com/.

STAR // Brennan Chin Francis Ford Coppola Winery offers fine dining, wine tasting, cabin accomodations and pleasant scenery for visitors from all over the country.

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Entertainment

Music students perform in theater workshop Alex Sanchez Staff Writer

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Review

n entire semesters worth of creativity and dedication came to life on stage in Schroeder Hall on Saturday afternoon, when Sonoma State University Music 340 students presented a performance that they themselves wrote, directed, and acted in.

Students begin the course by selecting the music they wish to accompany their final performance. From there, they find a unifying theme in the songs and use that theme to write a storyline.

While it may seem unorthodox by theatrical standards, this method allows students to use some of their favorite music to create a unique theatrical experience.

With the help of Doctor Lynne Morrow, students enrolled in Music 340, or Musical Theater Scenes Workshop spend two class sessions a week writing and rehearsing an original performance piece they created.

This semester’s piece was entitled, “Save the Date!” a piece in which everything that can go wrong during Paul and Amy’s wedding does, and friendships are made in the course of an hour and a half.

The performance featured music of all

May 12 - May 18, 2015

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Hidden FLIX Our Netflix favorites

kinds, ranging from the historic pop of The Beatles, pieces from the Broadway songwriting virtuoso Stephen Sondheim, to the sardonic stylings of Stephin Merritt and his band The Magnetic Fields. The play was well-rehearsed and had minimal set decoration, which helped to increase the focus on the play’s cast.

Set decoration was close to none, but the costumes were very well-designed and were used nicely to give each character their own distinct personality, such as Aunt Phyllis, who has had three weddings and will not hesitate to tell everyone about her marriage to second husband Derrick.

The story that is conveyed through The Magnetic Fields’ “69 Love Songs” track “Yeah! Oh Yeah!” It was a marvel to see students act in a play they wrote themselves.

If any students are interested in doing something so creative, they’re in luck.

“It’s not a major-restricted course,” said Morrow, “so anyone can enroll.” This course’s student roster ranges from those who have never performed before to voice majors, so the range in experience is varied.

The course does not require an audition to become part of such a grand theatrical experience, giving students of all majors and backgrounds the opportunity to express their interest in performing arts without being tied down to the major or prerequisites.

Mumford and Sons: “Wilder Mind” Jake Burke Staff Writer

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Review

n 2012, Mumford & Sons released the Grammy award-winning album “Babel.” The band’s unique mix of folk and rock made Mumford & Sons one of the most impressive musical groups in the past few years.

After three years, the band has released their new album, “Wilder Mind,” and to this reviewer’s surprise, it’s not exactly what a Mumford & Sons fan would expect.

A new album can take a band in one of two directions; either it follows what the group has done in the past, or, like The Beatles, they can make their “White Album,” something different from their usual sound.

Sadly, Mumford & Sons leaves the banjo behind and takes “Wilder Mind” into an unusual direction.

When The Beatles changed their sound in 1968, it changed the way the world listened to not just The Beatles, but music in general.

Now Mumford & Sons’ new sound surely changes who they are.

The band has switched from an awesome folk/rock band to a depressing alternative music group.

As a listener goes through the album’s twelve songs, only one or two will be faster than a ballad.

“The Wolf ” will be noticeably different from the rest. Yet the only reason it seems different is because every other song sounds the same.

The title song, “Wilder Mind” ,is insanely forgettable as it blends in with the songs that have come before, and the songs that come after. This is the album’s main problem.

Mumford & Sons’ genre switch is awkward, as one moves through the twelve songs, each melds together and the listener may not even know the song has changed.

Almost every song starts slowly, then the drums kick in followed by the infamous Mumford & Sons shout.

While the album ultimately fails, it still manages to have one or two songs that may be memorable to a diehard Mumford & Sons fan.

As previously mentioned, “The Wolf ” is a soft rock ballad that slowly builds into a

triumphant roar. While the Mumford & Sons sound may be gone, their lyrics still remain thought-provoking and beautiful.

The song “Believe” truly capitalizes on exquisite lyrics: “I had the strangest feeling/ your world’s not all it seems/ so tired of misconceiving/ what else this could’ve been” is just an example of how Mumford & Sons still has the writing listeners expect.

Their last album, “Babel” ,managed to capture fast and slow songs and still maintained those special lyrics, while this album only has its lyrics going for it.

There isn’t a song on it that compares to any of the band’s past hits like “The Cave,” “Little Lion Man,” or “I Will Wait.”

Mumford & Sons tries to leave behind what made the band so special previously.

“Wilder Mind” doesn’t even compare to the band’s first two albums, as they’ve lost their banjo and unique sound.

If one really wants more Mumford & Sons, this reviewer recommends the band’s first two albums, not “Wilder Mind.”

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“Undefeated” (2011) This classic, underdog sports movie follows Manassas High School in North Memphis as their football team struggles to win a playoff game. That is until former coach Bill Courtney takes over and they break their 110-year losing streak.

“Undefeated” is available to stream on Netflix.com

Movies releasing this week Pitch Perfect 2 - starring: Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow

Mad Max: Fury Road - starring: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult

Animals - starring: John Heard, John Hoogenakker, Kim Shaw

Albums releasing this week Snoop Dog - “Bush” (Hip Hop) Surfer Blood - “1000 palms” (Alternative

Rock)

Rhett Miller - “The Traveler” (Alternative

Country)

facebook.com Mumford & Sons released their sophomore album, “Wilder Mind”, this week after their Grammy award-winning album, “Babel”, in 2012.

Features

May 12 - May 18, 2015

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Page 9

Student spotlight: Dylan Sirdofsky

Samantha Cardenas Staff Writer

G

oodbye. Adios. Au Revoir. Arrivederci. No matter how you say goodbye, it doesn’t make it any easier. Dylan Sirdofsky, the Sonoma State STAR’s Editorin-Chief and beloved friend will be retiring his duties and moving on to the “real world.”

Sirdofsky joined the STAR back in 2013 as a staff writer and became Editor-in-Chief in Fall 2014. This year, the Sonoma State STAR overcame some obstacles, achieved new highs and learned to work together like a well-oiled machine.

Growing up, Sirdofsky hadn’t always been the type to take on leadership roles like he did on the STAR. He always wished he could fill the headman position, but never thought it was in the cards.

It wasn’t until his senior year of high school that he took the leap of faith that made him realize his potential.

“My senior year of high school was really a big deal for me because I had this basketball class four days a week. It was a lot of work and then I ended up trying out for the team,” said Sirdofsky. “I went through six weeks of conditioning, two days of tryouts, until I got cut. I learned a lot through that and I realized I had an interest in sports and basketball. It took me a while to step out of that comfort zone, and that didn’t happen until I joined the STAR, and then the following semester when I joined the editorial board.”

Most people don’t typically realize their potential until others bring it to their attention. Dylan’s choice to become the leader he is today was a shock for himself as well as his friends.

“When Dylan told me he was going to be Editor-in-Chief, I was surprised,” said Brennan Chin, STAR editorial board member and Sirdofsky’s best friend. “Knowing Dylan previously, I would have not expected him to take on such a big leadership position. However, he has thrived in this position and I have seen tremendous growth in him as a person and as a leader. I am proud of his accomplishments and I feel this experience at the STAR will open up numerous opportunities for him postgraduation.”

Aside from running the University’s student-run newspaper, Sirdofsky’s accomplishments have gained acknowledgement on a larger scale. Just this year, he was awarded the 2015 Phillip N. McCombs Scholarship.

The scholarship committee started off with 16 candidates, then narrowed it down to 10, and finally gave the scholarship to the final five students most worthy of the title.

The lucky five students are involved in

either journalism, media or communications related programs who also achieved high academic status.

In addition to his outstanding academic achievements, Sirdofsky has proved that he excels in the workplace as well.

For the Spring 2015 semester , he has served as a communications intern at the Northern California Coastal Region of the American Red Cross.

Here he served as a public relations aficionado, having mastered communicating with contacts via e-mail, making follow up calls and doing a lot of writing and editing, similar to what he did for the STAR. His biggest project has been working on the 2015 Real Heroes Breakfast.

“It’s a way to commemorate and highlight 10 different people in different categories such as military, heroic deed, rescue professional and education. I’ve helped write summaries and helped create content for our program booklet,” said Sirdofsky. “The booklet has sponsor advertisements, summaries for each of these people and all sorts of information for the event itself. So that’s been kind of my main project.”

Those working closely with Sirdofsky have seen firsthand his exceptional work ethic and passion for what he does.

“Dylan is a very efficient worker. He takes direction very well but also takes the time to ask questions if he isn’t clear on a task,” said the American Red Cross Regional Marketing Program Manager and Internship Manager Pooja Trivedi. “He’s able to juggle several tasks at any given time while managing all of his activities outside of this internship as well. It was apparent that he would take feedback he had received from our weekly check-ins and implement them in a constructive manner.”

Hearing positive feedback from your peers and colleagues can provide the boost needed to f lourish, but hearing it from loved ones can be argued to have a greater impact.

“Like so many things with Dylan, when he decides to do something, he really commits himself. He uses his perfectionist qualities in a positive way,” said his mother, Cindy Sirdofsky. “I have seen so many changes in Dylan, but perhaps the most extraordinary is his leadership and people skills. He really communicates with other staff members, faculty and people in general, in a clear, yet empathetic manner. I think because he had been raised to believe in the value of diversity, particularly in opinion.”

When asked who inspires him to keep going and set an example for others, there was no hesitation as to who that person was.

“I would say my mom is the first person that comes to mind. We’ve both had to go through our hardships in life,” said Sirdofsky.

“She’s been 27 years sober and knowing what

STAR // Brennan Chin The STAR wishes Sirdofsky the best in his future endeavors and thanks him for his contributions and hard work over the past few years. she’s gone through and sacrificed to make a life for me and try to make me the happiest person I could be inspires me everyday.”

Over the past five semesters, Sirdofsky has become a key member of the STAR and has made a great impression over that time.

“I’m going to miss all the friends I’ve made and the people that have had a great inf luence in my life,” said Sirdofsky. “I’ve seen so many people come and go and I’ve seen the

development of the paper itself grow tremendously since Paul Gullixson has taken over as our advisor. Our level of professionalism and integrity that we put into the paper has grown and it’s amazing to see that and how it’s changed since I first started and before Paul came along. I’m really just going to miss that aspect of being a part of a team of people trying to do their best every week and improve and grow together.”

Restaurant Review: El Patio mexican food Aaron Walker Staff Writer

T

here is a wide selection of Mexican restaurants in Santa Rosa to choose from, but none stand out more than El Patio. Located on 4th St. and Stony Point Rd., El Patio offers exceptional service, authentic Mexican food and an environment where all customers feel welcome.

The 4th St. location has a beautiful patio area adorned with flowers. This provides a comfortable and relaxed eating area for customers.

Inside, the restaurant is decorated with intricate paintings and a display case of gems that the restaurant has collected over the years.

The building, as well as the tables, are colored red, white and green, like the colors of the Mexican flag.

First time customers can be overwhelmed as they stare at the menu covered with appetite-enticing pictures.

The prices are reasonable and one can have a full meal for less than $10. The most popular item on the menu is their burrito, but other choices include tacos, quesadillas, fajitas and more.

“Whenever I’m in Santa Rosa I try to stop by El Patio,” said Sonoma State University junior Shannon Kinahan. “Their food is top notch, and very affordable.”

After the customer orders, they are given chips and salsa like most Mexican restaurants. They have green salsa that is mild and sweet, and a red salsa that is slightly spici-

er. The food doesn’t take long to be prepared, and customers rarely finish their basket of chips before having their food brought to them.

The food comes out piping hot and presented just like the pictures on the menu.

To accommodate customers, most of the items on the menu are not exceptionally spicy. The food is served in generous portions and customers rarely feel like they didn’t get enough to eat.

El Patio has been known to give meals to the homeless who live in the area. Over the years, many customers have taken to social media to share their stories of seeing El Patio feed the less fortunate. The restaurant has strong ties to the Santa Rosa community and try to give back as much as they can.

“Many of the homeless people that come in are desperate for a meal,” said owner Sergio Ochoa.

“Sometimes you just have to go out of your way to take care of others.”

With over 20 other Mexican restaurants in Santa Rosa, El Patio thrives in such a competitive market.

Out of all the Mexican restaurants in Santa Rosa, El Patio is one of the most popular. Everyday there is a lunch and dinner rush, which usually leads the line out the door to order.

“I just enjoy serving people, and establishing friendships with my customers,” said Ochoa. Sonoma State students often find themselves in Santa Rosa, so if they’re looking for a bite to eat, they should look no further than El Patio. With cheap prices and good food, El Patio is always a good option.

yelp.com El Patio offers a variety of tasty mexican food at a reasonable price. As a way to give back to the community, they have been known to give food to the homeless.

Page 10

Features

May 12 - May 18, 2015

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Sapphires put on a spring showcase Shannon Brown Features Editor

T

he Sonoma State University Sapphires performed dances they have been working on throughout the year last Saturday in Person Theatre. Ranging from jazz to hip hop, there was a wide variety of dance styles performed.

Beginning with an introduction from coaches Jenna Connolly and Megan Bowcott, the dancers were individually introduced with the popular song, “Shut Up and Dance”

by Walk the Moon, blaring out of the speakers. When the cheers died down and the lights dimmed, the audience grew anxious for the first dance to begin.

“I helped choreographed three different styled dances-jazz, tap and hip hop,” said Erica Pecho, the team captain and choreographer of three dances in the show. It was really fun to showcase my diversity and pick songs that I would think the audience would enjoy.”

During every dance, one could hear cheering from backstage from the other girls on the team. After practicing three times a week for hours on end, the dancers got very close to each other.

By sharing a common passion and goal, they were able to push each other to be better.

“Dance team means a place where I can do what I love and share it with others,” Pecho said. “It makes it even more worthwhile being surrounded by other passionate dancers that I can call my best friends.” This passion for dance kept them going through the long hours of rehearsal.

“It was a rough couple of weeks leading up to the show,” said freshman dance team member Madison Muro.

“There were a lot of dances to learn and it was challenging because I wanted it to be perfect. It totally paid off when I finally got to

perform in front of my friends and family.”

Performing songs from their national competition as well as dances specifically choreographed for the show, the dancers got to put their unique spin on each song. Erica Pecho, Jenny Novero and Carissa Pinnix’s tap rendition of “Heartless,” by Kanye West mesmerized the crowd and the finale of Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary” got the audience clapping along to the beat.

“Dance team means a place where I can do what I love and share it with others,” said Pecho.

“It makes it even more worthwhile being surrounded by other passionate dancers that I can call my best friends.”

The solos were the highlight of the evening and audience members thought each dancer did a beautiful job at capturing the essence of each song.

“Each solo was absolutely amazing.

Knowing they were choreographed by each dancer made it much more breathtaking to watch,” said freshman Sarah Fishback. “There was so much emotion and thought that went into each performance and I really enjoyed watching.”

The Sapphires spring showcase was a time to celebrate the dance team’s accomplishments and for friends and family to see what they have been working on throughout the school year. The bond the dancers share shine through each of their dances.

“They made me feel a part of a family that would be with me through anything,” said freshman dancer Jenny Novero.

STAR // Brennan Chin The Sonoma State University Sapphires dance team showcased their dance moves during a performance at Person Theatre last Saturday.

KONG: An improvement to the selfie?

Emily Johnstone Staff Writer

S

elfies have become one of the biggest trends when it comes to taking pictures.

Kong, the newest addition to the Path family of applications, is a simple way to create GIF selfies to share with friends.

The application works to incorporate filters inspired by old silent films to help users become more animated.

It works by simply pressing the record button to take a quick GIF selfie, swipe to add a filter, tap to add text and finally add it to either a private or public channel.

By adding it to channels, the selfie can be shared with different groups of people through followers in the Kong community, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, iMessage and more.

The home icon in the Kong app is the default channel where the user can follow friends and see the home posts of people one follows.

It’s been compared to posting a status update on Facebook.

There’s no end to the different channels available for users to join in Kong. Each one is dedicated to a unique genre under certain hashtags.

With those found on public channels, there are also private channels that allow people to select certain users to send their silly selfies to.

“I downloaded the Kong application and found it to be so hilarious and engaging,” said Sonoma State sophomore Hunter Risso. “It lets people change the way they take selfies and add animation to them. This app is super simple and shamelessly fun.”

A major accomplishment for Kong is that it has become the first app available on the Apple Watch.

Kong for Apple Watch brings the entertainment of people’s selfies to the convenience of the user’s wrist, allowing one to quickly see posts when they receive a notification.

The Kong application has advanced the popular selfie into a new type of photo to share with friends.

Check out the STAR’s

STAR // Niquie Wilson The Kong app allows users to edit their selfies and share them on social media.

new website at sonomastatestar.com

May 12 - May 18, 2015

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Softball team to play in first Super Regional Jennifer González Staff Writer

T

he Sonoma State University softball team played in the NCAA Division II West Region Tournament this past weekend. They had wins of 5-4 against Humboldt State, and 5-4 and 11-3 against Montana State Billings. These three wins earned them a spot in the upcoming NCAA West Division II Super Regional.

The first team that the Seawolves played against was Humboldt State. In their two previous matchups with the Lumberjacks, they ended up losing, but the Seawolves held on this time.

In just the first inning, the Seawolves showed how determined they were to take the win. The bases were loaded with Amanda Rossetta at first, Jena Kaser at second, and Ancia Purdy at third.

Third baseman Olivia Lucchese came up to hit and although she was out at first, putting the ball in play got Purdy home for the first score of the game.

“Humboldt State has been a tough team to beat this season,” said Fred Bass, a family friend of a Seawolf softball player. “But the team really put in all their effort and showed them what they got. And that sure showed them.”

In the bottom of the second, the Jacks took the lead of the game with a home run that made the score 4-1. This would be the score until the sixth inning.

Catcher, Aubrie Tolliver gave the Jacks a taste of their own medicine. She hit a grand slam to center field that brought Taylor Batey, Mayleen Mazon,

and Ally Bryant home with her. Tolliver’s hit would be the difference in their victory against Humboldt State with a score of 5-4.

“We have had a hard time against Humboldt this year and I am just glad that I was able to succeed for my team and my pitchers,” said Tolliver.

“We wanted that game so bad and I am happy that we were able to pull out a win.”

The second game played for this weekend lasted 12 innings against the Montana State University Billings Yellowjackets.

CSU Monterey Bay Purdy had her first career home run and the first score of the game during the third inning. After three wins in the CCAA tournament, the softball team will travel to St. George, Mazon followed up on Purdy’s homerun with her Utah for the first super regional appearance in program history. own and by the end of the third inning the score was 3-0. some tough competition and some nerve-racking The final score of the game was 11-3. The SeaIn the seventh inning, the Yellowjackets man- games but with our relentless fight and team unity, wolves took the victory in the last game of the touraged to catch up to the Seawolves and tied the game we were able to succeed and accomplish our goal.” nament. at 3-3.

After their first two wins, the Seawolves looked “I am so proud to stand next to these girls and The tie continued throughout the game until the to finish off the weekend with three victories and a be one of 22 strong who was able to make history 12th inning when the Yellowjackets hit a home run shot at more tournament play. this weekend and give Sonoma State softball their and took the lead by one. The Seawolves responded They played their last game against Montana first ever opportunity to play in Super Regionals,” in their next at-bat.

State Billings. said Rossetta.

Rossetta came up and delivered a hit that “In the entire history of Sonoma State Softball, This is the first time the Sonoma State softball brought Purdy home to tie it up. we have never won regionals and to be able to win team has ever had the opportunity to play in the Tolliver came through again for the team when this year undefeated, it’s an incredible feeling,” said NCAA Division II Super Regionals. she singled a hit to the left side of the field and helped Tolliver.

They will be playing this Friday against Dixie Keeley Ray make the final score of the game 5-4.

Unlike the last game played, this game only State in St. George, Utah.

“We had one common goal as a team this week- lasted five innings. In every inning, the Seawolves “We have a lot more to prove and show this next end and it was to be three and done, meaning we win scored at least one run. Sonoma dominated and it weekend in Utah, we aren’t done yet and I’m so exevery single game and the end result is us advanc- was clear that they were not going to let the Yellow- cited for this opportunity we worked so hard for,” ing to the super regionals,” said Rossetta. “We had jackets take this last win from them. said Rossetta.

Women’s golf qualifies for NCAA Div. II Championships Finished third in three-day Super Regional Kayla Kring Staff Writer

Day 1 Starting off the week for the Sonoma State University women’s golf team were Alexis Hayes and Sarah Rotter as they both shot one-under par 71 to start the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II Women’s Golf West Super Regional on Monday, May fourth.

This three-day event was hosted by the Seawolves at Foxtail Golf Course in Rohnert Park.

As the first day of Regionals came to a n end, the Seawolves set a personal best team score of 294. With their record breaking team score, the Seawolves were able to hold a first place tie with the Academy of Art at six over par heading into Tuesday’s second round.

Upon entering the tournament on Monday the Sonoma State Seawolves were ranked as the No. 8 seed, while Academy of Art sat as the No. 9 seed.

Other team scores were Midwestern State with a score of 300 – 12 over par, St. Edward’s University and West Texas A&M each tied for fourth with a score of 300 – 15 over par. That left California Baptist, Tarleton State and Newman to all tie for sixth place with a score of 307 – 19 over par and the No. 1 seed Dallas Baptist to fall into ninth place with a score of 310 – 22 over par.

The top individual scores on Monday were Crystal Wang from Academy of Art and Brenna Moore from Midwestern State each carding a three-under 69. St. Mary’s Allison Howarth (71), and Sonoma State’s Alexis Hayes (71) and Sarah Rotter (71) were tied for third place at one-under par.

Fellow Seawolf Haley Whitebeck tied for 12th with nine other competitors after shooting 75 (+3).

Hannah Gregg would also tie for 25th with a score of 77 (+5), and Erin Marten held the 48th spot with a score of 86 (+14).

Day 2 Tuesday morning’s tee time at Foxtail began at 8:30a.m.. With the great start on Monday, it seemed the Seawolves had no thoughts of letting first place slip from their grasp as Sarah Rotter carded a 73 to tie for first place with Crystal Wang (75) from Academy of Art atop the individual leaderboard at even par 144.

Rotter’s good play helped place the Seawolves on top of the team leaderboard by two strokes heading into the final round on Wednesday.

Upon entering into Tuesday’s round, Alexis Hayes would shoot a 78 leaving her to tie for 12th place with a score of 149 (+5). Hannah Gregg would hold onto 15th place after Tuesday’s round with a score of 150 (+6), moving up ten spots with a round of 73.

Leina Kim of Colorado State-Pueblo carded the score of the day with a 68 and shared third place with Isabel Jimenez-Parea from Tarleton State at 145 (+1) for two days.

The SSU women’s golf team collectively shot

Sports

Page 11

score of 300 on Tuesday for the overall team lead with a total score of 594 (+18), two shots ahead of St. Edward’s with a score of 596 (+20) and Tarleton State in third place at 598 (+22) trailed by four shots.

Following suit were California Baptist in fourth with a score of 602, West Texas A&M at fifth as they shot 605, Academy of Art at 606 for sixth, Midwestern State placed seventh with 610, Newman finished eighth with 611 and Dallas Baptist was ninth with a score of 613.

Day 3 In the final round of the NCAA Division II Women’s Golf West Super Regionals, the Sonoma State Seawolves fell from their first place position to third place in the team competition. While it may sound like a defeat, it still means that the Sonoma State Women’s Golf team has qualified for the 2015 NCAA Division II Women’s Golf Championships.

Sonoma State would card a team score of 308 (+38), ending their time at Regionals nine strokes behind the winner, Tarleton State’s 295 for the day and a team score of 893 (+29). Placing second was St. Edward’s with an 898 (+34).

Behind Tarleton State, St. Edward’s and Sonoma State were California Baptist and West Texas A&M, who tied for fourth place with a score of 908 (+4). In sixth place was Newman with their total of 915 (+51). Tied for seventh place was Midwestern State and Academy of Art carding in with 917 (+53). Lastly was Dallas Baptist with a final score of 918 (+54).

“We’ve done a great job of rallying this season and we are peaking at the right time. This is what we have all been waiting for this entire year, so it’s great to have the opportunity to represent at NCAA Finals,” said Hannah Gregg. “I think the team did a great job of executing under pressure. Coming in as the eighth seed and finishing in third is definitely a solid tourney for us.”

Sarah Rotter placed 10th in individuals with her scores of 71, 73 and 79 to total at 223 (+7). Midwestern State’s Brenna Moore and Academy of Art’s Crystal Wang were both medalist honors with a score of 220 (+4) for the tournament.

Leina Kim defeated Dallas Baptist’s Sydney Williams in a one-hole playoff to determine the third and final individual to advance to Nationals. Also attending Nationals as an individual will be Moore and Wang.

Sophomore Hannah Gregg, who

shot 77-73-75 totaling to 225 (+9), would go on to tie for 15th place. Alexis Hayes with a score of 7178-80–229 (+13) would end up tied for 26th. While Haley Whitbeck, the Seawolves top player of the day, finished in 30th place with a score of 231 (+15).

Following suit would be Erin Martens who shot 8676-86 bringing her total to 248 (+32) as she tied for 47th.

“We all felt the fatigue after 54 holes in a row, so I think preparation and hydration are high on the list as we go into Nationals,” said Gregg, after the West Regionals.

Sonoma State has only been to Nationals once in program history when they came in third place at the 2010 Regional at Tascosa Country Club in Amarillo, Texas.

“I’m very happy with the outcome, I mean all the hard work on and off the golf course and in the weight room has paid off,” said Head Coach Val Verhunce.

The 2015 NCAA Division II Women’s Golf Championships will consist of 72 total participants.

The event will be held on May 13-16 at The Meadows Golf Course in Allendale, Michigan.

Page 12

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STAR// Brennan Chin Rapper, Shwayze, performing at the Saturdazed music and arts festival. Visit sonomastatestar.com to view our feature on the festival this week.

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