In this issue:
Sports: Men’s Basketball team leader: Andy Mitchell. Pg. 11
Opinion: Marriage: What’s the Rush? Pg. 3. A&E: Sonoma State University home to social media star. Pg. 6.
SINCE 1979
VOLUME 75 // ISSUE 13
Student Life: Seawolves Speak: Studying abroad after Paris attacks. Pg. 9. DECEMBER 8 - DECEMBER 14, 2015
THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER
French exchange student reflects on Paris attacks extremists.
Justin Freeman Staff Writer
O
n Dec. 4, the world watched in horror as news of the tragedy spread: A series of coordinated attacks carried out by members of the reviled Islamic State had left 130 dead in Paris, with 368 wounded. In a city that had suffered a brutal assault on the offices of satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo mere months before, once again, blood flowed through the streets, let loose by the gunfire of
Sonoma State University students received a mass email sent from President Ruben Armiñana a day after the attack. The email expressed sympathy for the family of California State University, Long Beach student Nohemi Gonzalez, who lost her life that November night. Graphic incidents like this seem to unfold regularly throughout the world, especially in war-torn regions of Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Even though the recent attacks in Paris occurred on Western soil, many
Westerners may still feel an apathetic disconnect to such events. The opposite couldn’t be more true for Sonoma State foreign exchange student Camille Chèze. As a French native who is pursuing a master’s degree in linguistics, Chèze, 21, had previously studied in Paris for three years, but grew up in Issoudun, a city just a couple miles outside of Paris. She said she was a frequent attendee of the Bataclan theater, where 89 people were mercilessly gunned down by militants. In addition, when two of the militants opened fire on the restaurant La
Belle Équipe, Chèze’s 21-year-old friend Mathilde Loeillet was among those who were seriously injured, being shot four times in the arm and chest. Loeillet was finally released from the hospital on Dec. 4., but will no longer be able to see the faces of many of her friends, as a number of them had their lives stolen away by the militants that night. “As soon as I learned what happened, I immediately thought about all of my friends in Paris,” said Chèze, describing her See PARIS REFLECTION on Pg. 4
California students face harder admission standards Nikki Bridges Staff Writer
C
STAR // Brennan Chin Sonoma State University dancers performed at the university’s annual Fall Dance Concert held in Evert B. Person Theatre on Thursday.
Fall Dance Concert showcases student talents. See the full recap on page 6.
Associated Students to vote on DREAM Center for undocumented students
STAR // Nicole Detmers Associated Students President Brandon Mercer spoke out at last weeks’s Associated Students meeting about a future DREAM Center to assist Sonoma State’s undocumented student population. Anna Kehrlein Staff Writer
S
onoma State University President Ruben Armiñana’s decision to support the opening of a
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DREAM Center for undocumented students struck controversy in the Associated Students meeting to approve a resolution for the center on Friday. The goal of the DREAM Center would be to provide
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help with AB 540, a state law that in certain circumstances allows undocumented students to pay in-state tuition. The center also would help the estimated 167 undocumented students at Sonoma State students complete their paperwork in a welcoming and private environment. The AB 540 allows certain non-California residents to pay local tuition rates if they attended lower education in California for at least three years. “The DREAM center has two goals. One: to have a place where they can be included. Two: To help DREAMers go through their process,” said Associated Students’ Executive Director Erik Dickson. “One of the issues is undocumented students don’t want to declare themselves illegal, so they should be able to do that in a safe and confidential place.” The idea of having a place for undocumented students to receive help with their paperwork anonymously is not a new one. California State Universities Long Beach, Fullerton, Northridge, and Los Angeles all
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have DREAM centers. Associated Student President Brandon Mercer and other Associated Students members are concerned about where the money for a DREAM Center would be coming from. “If we don’t know where the money is coming from, how can we support it?” said Mercer. Despite these controversies, according to Dickson, President Armiñana declared in a DREAMer’s conference in September that he wanted the DREAM center to be done before he retires at the end of the spring semester. “Dr. Armiñana has already agreed that this is going to happen,” said Erik Dickson. According to Associated Students, Armiñana estimates that the DREAM center will cost $25,000 per year and plans to fund it through the general fund. Mercer said at the meeting that the only available space the school found for the DREAM center was a storage See DREAM CENTER on Pg. 4
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ommunity service, a high GPA and extracurricular activities are just a few things that have been deemed important on students’ college applications this year. Since applications for the fall 2016 year were due on Nov. 30, a study on how much harder it is to get accepted to colleges and universities in California has been released by the Campaign for College Opportunity. The increase of competition and standards has forced the California State University and University of California to deny entry to thousands of students, according to the study. The study also found the demand for access to top students by the universities as well as employers has gone up within the last four to five years. The average GPA a student must have to be considered to be admitted to six of the nine UC campuses is a 4.0 according to the Campaign for College Opportunity. Along with the GPA, students must have an SAT score that is no more than 400 points shy of a perfect score to be accepted to universities like UCLA, UC Berkeley and UC San Diego. To be admitted to a California State University, the requirement for a higher GPA and SAT score has increased by 135 percent since 2004 for students that are applying to impacted majors, according to the study. “The problem is that more and more students want to go to college which makes universities more picky by raising the requirement of GPA and SAT scores,” said Professor of Economics Robert C. Eyler. “Junior colleges have a much more straightfor-
ward process of acceptance, which is where the universities will send the students who aren’t accepted.” However, this study reports this as wrong, saying that allowing more students to attend UC and CSU schools is important for the states workforce and future economy. The Campaign for College Opportunity wants the governor and Legislature to provide funding to the UC and CSU universities so they can accept all eligible students as well as rethink the current admission practices. “It’s a shame that hard-working, talented California students need to be virtually perfect to get a spot at the University of California,” said Michele Siqueiros, president of the Campaign for College Opportunity in a press release. “It should not be more difficult for a student to enroll directly into a four-year university than it was in previous generations.” According to the study, students are more than capable of completing the work load at universities, however, employers are making their idea of a good candidate harder to uphold their expectations. State funding has been shown to have a major impact on the enrollment at campuses as well as meeting employers and applicants expectations. Funding has consequently forced universities to turn away 28,000 students per year, according to the study. “I had a 3.5 GPA through high school, ran my leadership class, volunteered and did extracurricular activities and I applied to eight schools, however, Sonoma State is the only school I was accepted to,” said undeclared major Katrina Torgersen. To acces the study conducted by the Campaign for College Opportunity, visit college campaign.org.
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Editorial
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
THE STAR Editorial Board Brandon Stachnik, Editor-in-Chief Kayla E. Galloway, News Editor Jenna Fischer, Opinion Editor Ashley Mar tin, Ar ts & Enter tainment Editor Shannon Brown, Student Life Editor Kory Arnold, Spor ts Editor Thomas Call, Asst. Spor ts Editor Brennan Chin, Photo Editor Edward Goquingco, Copy Editor Kyler Khan, Copy Editor & Marketing Director Cassandra Owens, Adver tising Director Connor Gibson, Distribution Director Paul Gullixson, Faculty Adviser Staff Writers Aubrey Anzelmo, Natalie Aro Justin Barrientos, Nikki Bridges Francisco Carbajal, Jerri Cohen Megan Corcoran, Sean Curzon Samuel Davis, Christine Edwards Joseph Encinas, Noe Felix Justin Freeman, Ryan Green Florencia Hasson, Olivia Hunt Anna Kehrlein, Olivia Lucchese Rachael Newman, Lawrence Ricardo Kaila Sanders, Aubrie Tolliver Photographers Nicole Detmers Sarah Fishback, Thomas Lynch
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:
‘When It’s Dark Out’: G-Eazy’s sophomore success
Rapper and Bay Area native G-Eazy released a very personal sophomore album Dec. 4. Each song was carefully critiqued by Staff Writer Kaila Sanders in her appraisal of the 17-track album. With lyrics to help her exemplify her review, Sanders offers why ‘When It’s Dark Out’ earned four stars.
Read the story on page 7 Corrections/Clarifications The STAR values accuracy and works diligently to check facts before publication. However, if inaccuracies occur, we want to know. Please report errors to the editor at star@sonoma.edu.
Publication The STAR is published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters. Printing is done by Sonoma Media Group. The weekly publication of the STAR is made possible by Instructionally Related Activities Funding.
Opinions
Opinions expressed in the STAR are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the STAR or SSU. The editorial reflects the views of the STAR Editorial Board on issues it considers to be of particular relevance to the campus community.
Letters to the Editor Letter writers may expect prompt publication in the newspaper’s op-ed section, as space is available. Letters of up to 400 words will be allowed and must be submitted no later than the Friday before the publication date. Published letters must be free of libel, since the publication is held legally accountable for all content. Although personal controversy will be tolerated, it is the responsibility of the editor to check statements purporting the facts. The STAR reserves the right to refuse publication to any letter and to edit for length. Letters must sign all contributions and the editor must verify the signer and the writer are one in the same through personal conference. To send a letter to the editor, email star@sonoma.edu.
COURTESY // Gustavo Vasquez
Becoming sensitive to everyone else
T
his generation of college students has arguably created the most controversy since the young civil rights protestors of the 1960s. While the majority of these modern activists understand that sometimes one must yell to be heard, skeptics argue the quickly changing standards of political correctness are a result of mere temper-tantrums of 20-somethings.
They’re not becoming more sensitive themselves, they’re just becoming sensitive to everyone else. The president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University took to his school’s blog to share his sentiments on current university life. His post, titled “This is Not a Day Care. It’s a University!”, offers an anecdote of a student who approached him after a University chapel service. According to the blog post, the student felt victimized during the sermon and expressed that the speaker made him feel bad for “not showing love.” The president, Dr. Everett Piper, commented that college students nowadays often like to play the victim. “Our culture has actually taught our kids to be this self-absorbed and narcissistic,” he wrote. What Dr. Piper has failed to understand is when a student expresses discomfort, they shouldn’t be answered with disgust, but rather support. While the student’s complaint might have been trivial, isn’t it a duty of a university president to care for the needs of their student body? Maybe it’s the way young scholars communicate their grievances that leave some folks confused and angry.
Students around the country have been speaking out on issues that have otherwise been ignored and have demanded safer campus climates. They’ve done so by holding protests and rallies and writing letters to their university presidents and their Congress. Recently, a controversial video of a student demonstration at the University of Missouri became viral. The school has had a tough year, facing racial issues and workplace inequality, and their campus “Concerned Student” movement has made strides in creating ultimatums for their university. The video shows protesters who formed a wall around a fasting student camped on school grounds. A student-journalist was continuously denied access inside of the circle to take a photo of the hunger-striking student. Despite attempting to explain that the first amendment right allowing the protesters to demonstrate was the same one that allows him to shoot photos, the journalist was repeatedly heckled. Even when the person recording the video found himself inside the circle, a communications professor ordered him to leave. It seems even some faculty can forget basic constitutional rights when caught in the excitement of demonstrating. This ‘mob mentality’ that some activists take on is what fuels the critics of modern social justice movements. However, those university officials and others who are annoyed by the stricter political correctness policies of young adults are missing the larger point. They’re not becoming more sensitive themselves, they’re just becoming sensitive to everyone else’s requests. It’s important we solve this miscommunication crisis and begin to handle the needs of those who feel mistreated.
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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Opinion
Dec . 8 - Dec . 14, 2015 sonomastatestar.com
Page 3
The I do’s and don’ts of young love
“L
Florencia Hasson Staff Writer
ove and infatuation can be so easily mistaken for one another. By keeping that in mind, you are less likely to make a mistake and end up with the wrong person,” this is the advice 21-year-old Shane Bickford gave about his two marriages. Shane is now a senior Communications and Media Studies major at Sonoma State University hoping to graduate next fall. He met his first wife, in Sonoma State’s very own Sauvignon Alicante Freshman dorms. Since then he has gone through a divorce and another secret marriage to his now wife of one year whom he met on the new popular dating app, Tinder. Bickford is now beginning to understand “people are very quick to grow at this age. I’m a completely different person from whom I was when I came to college, and if you don’t take that into account before making a life-changing decision like marrying someone then your odds of failing are much higher. You have two options when getting married young; you either grow together or you grow apart,” and this rings true to all matrimonies across the world. According to a census provided by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, out of 2,118,000 mar-
riages in 44 States plus D.C., the marriage rate in 2011 per every 1000 people was 6.8 percent and with a divorce rate of 3.6 percent. So what does this tell us? The American Psychological Association reported the current divorce rate in the U.S. is reaching 50 percent, and expected to grow. So why do people get married, if we are growing up in a society where divorce seems to be becoming more and more prevalent? “I do believe in marriage, that in the right circumstances it is the most intimate thing two people can do together, when done correctly,” explained Bickford. Perhaps this is true, depending on who you ask, but when looking at the origins and the reasons why people got married, romance was rarely involved. Only now has marriage become such a large and grandiose occasion to celebrate the union of two people, which is only arguably a big deal due to our consumerist society. In a survey conducted by The Knot, it was revealed that “the average wedding is now about $31,213.” To spend anywhere near that much money on anything but the down payment of a house is ridiculous. Consider that one: this money could go towards so many other things that could either benefit the couple later on or other people in need, and two: that there is a good chance that this marriage may not last the test of time. However, our society tells us the way to show our love and devotion is through an absurd wedding, dripping with old-fashioned and conservative morals and traditions. The white dress; a sign of purity and virginity, the “giving away” of the bride and the vows which are meant to only be said once, tell a different story to the reality of modern day society. Weddings are a way for people to profit from wealthy or love-sick couples and their families. Marriages, on the other hand, are a headache to get out of if they don’t work out and only make you pay more taxes (of course with the exception of the benefits to marrying a wealthier partner). However, there are times when getting married
It’s not the school, it’s you
makes sense. If your partner is leaving for the military, there are tremendous benefits designed for the spouse at home to live more comfortably and be allowed to stay in the loop of their soldier over seas, when married. When a child is brought into the equation, marriage can be used as a tax deduction when combining the two salaries. “Research from University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School indicates that age is a strong predictor when determining if a marriage is doomed for divorce or not,” Fox News Magazine reported. The University study also found that in the 1980s 65 of college graduates who married before the age 26 filed for divorce while the 81 percent of college students who got married after the age of 26 stayed married. The idea of marriage is beautiful, and who doesn’t enjoy a good wedding? Today marriage symbolizes happiness, love, new life, and a bright future of companionship ahead, however couldn’t we get all these benefits without having to go through the knitty, gritty and expensive process of marriage, especially when there may be high risks of divorce later on? What is it about marriage, aside from the title of ownership you can give one another, that’s so special? It just means you’re mine, and I’m yours, but that could so easily change, just as well as if you weren’t married, and who is to say that humans were ever meant to be monogamous, although the idea is certainly a nice one. Screw the wedding, let’s elope and have a nice honeymoon, and sure, if we’ve lived together for six plus years then I guess marriage won’t be so uninvited, but I won’t marry for the sake of marrying, especially as a women. I’m lucky enough to live in a time and country where who I am and what I do defines me as a person, not my need to find a husband who will support me. I can only hope that those women in the Middle East and parts of Asia will find their voices and strength together to prove themselves as equals in the working class society, where their job and education will carry them forward, not the wealthy butcher that they married.
The loves and woes of a Theatre Arts and Dance major and perform the best because otherwise, why would they have hired you? The learning environment is key for those who want to try out the theatre world.
A
Ryan Green Staff Writer
few weeks ago, the CSA’s in my village put on a potluck. Each house was told to bring a dish, and we would all share and get to know each other out in the quad. When the day came, only a few people showed up, with more food than they could eat by themselves. Our CSA knocked on everyone’s door several times, but no one else came out. Around my village, I’ll see signs for events that Residential Life is putting on, like ice cream socials or pool parties. Since the potluck, I’ll wonder ‘how many people are going to go to that event? Talking to roommates and friends, I’ve found that no one really cares to get involved with the community. Everyone has their own group of friends, especially after freshman year, and they tend to stay with their groups. They don’t feel that they need to know their neighbors. It’s not only in residential halls that I feel no sense of community or spirit; Campus events, rallies and even protests show little turnout, aside from the people who arranged them. Why is there so little school spirit at Sonoma State University? One reason has to be that we do not have a major sports team that people can follow. Football teams bring student fans by the thousands, which is evident by every university with a football team.
People complain that there is nothing to do around campus. Is there really nothing to do, or is it you who chooses not to do anything? The soccer team isn’t well known across campus, and the only advertisements I’ve noticed for games are on napkin dispensers in the dining hall. Another reason would be our beloved mascot the Seawolf, a mascot that can only be justified by saying “I am a Seawolf!” No one is really sure what a Seawolf is, and that makes it a difficult mascot to rally behind. But the main reason that we have so little spirit is because no one really cares. And I ask them why? There are so many events that are worth going to around campus. Events that tell you about new programs, let you meet new people and have fun. I know a lot of people that complain that there is nothing to do around campus. Is there really nothing to do, or is it you who chooses not to do anything? Even though we don’t have a football team, and even though no one understands our mascot, we are still united in the fact that we all go to Sonoma State, a university that we all chose to attend. We chose to come here to learn, grow and enjoy our time in college as best we can. So why do so many of us choose not to embrace it? Last semester my roommates decided to go to an open mic night at Lobo’s, just to see what it was like. I wasn’t interested, and thought that staying home and watching TV would be more entertaining. My roommates returned after the event and they told me about what a great time they all had, and I felt that I had missed out. So I encourage the student body to go to campus events, where I guarantee you will meet new friends, find new interests and have fun. If you don’t want to meet new friends, bring the ones you have and make it a fun night out. If you don’t want to find new interests, join clubs where you can practice your current interest. School spirit is the foundation of community. Going to events creates school spirit and community encourages people to go to events. It’s a cycle, and in our case, it needs a push to start rolling.
“I
Lawrence Ricardo Staff Writer
can’t, I have rehearsal!” That’s the most heard-of excuse from any performing artist, so much so that it has been printed on clothing. From auditions, callbacks, rehearsals, cue-to-cue’s to the opening night of performances, this is the process that I have lived for most of my life. The Sonoma State University’s Theatre Arts & Dance Department is presenting “Into the Woods” from Feb. 4-14 in Person Theatre. Those who know the musical, or at least watched the Meryl Streep film adaptation, knows that the premise of the show involves the integration of several Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault fairy tales including: “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Cinderella,” “Rapunzel,” and “Jack and the Beanstalk.” I have the privilege of being cast as Jack from the fairy tale “Jack and the Beanstalk” under the direction of Marty Pistone (Stage Direction) and Lynne Morrow (Vocal Direction). Jack is a young boy whose story revolves around carelessly selling his cow for magic beans. The Baker, who is on his own mission to reverse a spell that he was cursed upon by the Witch, gave these beans. Little did either of them know, these beans provided the beanstalkgateway to the kingdom of the Giant in which all hell breaks loose. The intertwined story not only tells a quirky, yet gruesome tale about the origination of the fairy tale characters in the woods, but there are plenty of life lessons that give the musical purpose and a sense of philosophical thought. That’s the core lesson that our director, Marty Pistone, wants us to understand. While it’s fun parading around the stage singing catchy songs to each other, it isn’t done without pondering answers on different moral truths. What’s different between participating in a production at a community theatre versus a university is the educational aspect. During my time with “Into the Woods,” There are things that I have taken to appreciate more in an educational environment in comparison to the community theatre environment. For one, Pistone and Morrow emphasize that we are in an educational setting to learn and grow as actors and performers. The expectation of being the best isn’t relevant in this type of environment. In community theatres however, you are expected to already know
There are individuals in the production who do not have a background in theatre, but are still playing crucial roles in the production. In community theatre, a lot of those people are phased out in the audition process because theatre companies don’t have time to season and teach the performer to grow. Even though having a five-month rehearsal process, six or more hours of rehearsal a week and only receiving three to four units of credit is difficult, being allowed the creativity to invest in a character and gain a significant amount of knowledge in both theatre and real life situations is what makes the journey worth it. I have met some incredible people that I would have never met in a normal classroom setting. You may have to do a one-month group project in class, but participating in a musical theatre production is a five-month group process here at Sonoma State. That’s intense—But I love it nonetheless. As an outsider to the theatre community, some may be intimidated to even participate in a show if they aren’t a theatre or music major. I admit that sometimes there are discrepancies on the casting side as to whether or not a theatre or music major deserves a role over a nontheatre major who is just as qualified. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter because it’s the work you do in the rehearsal and stage space that counts, not your résumé and portfolio. Being able to participate in productions at Sonoma State has been one of the highlights of my college career. From being a farmer in “Oklahoma” my freshman year to being an old Filipino-Jew in “Fiddler on the Roof” my junior year to finishing up as a prepubescent young lad in “Into the Woods,” theatre has given me the opportunity to be disciplined and grow as a performing artist. Although I have to shave off my facial hair once this show goes up, It’s worth it - for the love of theatre arts! “Into the woods, then out of the woods— and happy ever after!”
COURTESY // Lawrence Ricardo Lawrence Ricardo performed in the Sonoma State University production of “Oklahoma.”
Page 4
News
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
PARIS REFLECTION: Student from France reflects on global show of support to her home country
CAMPUS CRIME Continued from Pg. 1
initial reaction. “I called everyone to make sure that everyone was okay.” Chèze also said that she was immensely relieved each time she saw Facebook reporting a loved one as “safe.” When asked how she felt about non-French people changing their profile pictures in support of the Parisians, Chèze stated “I think it’s good to be supportive,” and expressed regret for how tragic events in other parts of the world were largely forgotten in the public eye that week, drowned out by outcry towards the Paris attacks. “I always think about what happened in Beirut and what happened in Bamako,” said Chèze. “People tend to forget about it If there was another way to support the other countries, I would’ve done that too. They shouldn’t be left behind, they should be supported as well, in the same way.” Chèze emphasized that the international community should be more supportive of those who are seeking safety from such violence. In the wake of the Paris attacks, a fiery debate erupted in the United States about whether to accept refugees f leeing from their homes in the Middle East.
Some even suggested that Christian refugees should be accepted while Muslims are left to fend for themselves, to which Chèze responded, “This is the silliest thing. Now more than ever, we should understand what they live through everyday,” said Chèze. “I just want to remind people that it’s not the refugees fault.” Shortly after the attacks in Paris, the French Air Force launched a number of airstrikes against the Caliphate in retaliation. Chèze described this response as “brash,” and expressed doubts about how much “bombing each other back and forth” would solve in the long run. Despite this, she noted that France should work to encourage cooperation against ISIS, and agreed that all nations involved in the conf lict should rise above their self-interests in seeking to bring about an end to the war. Chèze had interesting words to share about her personal experiences on the day of the Paris attacks. “When I was feeling very bad, all my American friends wanted to do was make me think about something else. I was sad but I didn’t want to think about something else,” she said. “I wanted to mourn for my country, and they didn’t
acknowledge that. They just wanted to make me feel better, but I thought this was a betrayal.” Chèze also attended a rally for France on the Sonoma State campus three days after the attack, but was disappointed with the sparse turnout. However, she noted that this was probably due to more to ineffective planning than American insensitivity. Chèze did have the chance to attend a better-coordinated rally on Nov. 15., when hundreds of people, many of them French citizens, gathered outside San Francisco City Hall. “It felt good to be surrounded by French people,” said Chèze. Whereas Chèze felt that many of her American friends didn’t understand what she was going through, she was glad to be with those who were as deeply affected as herself. “It was good to be with French people and to hear our national anthem. It was very emotional.” On Nov. 18., Lobos held their semi-weekly open mic night, which was deemed “International Night” and featured multiple acts from foreign exchange students. Chèze and her friend Mylène Picque, who is also from France, sang classic French songs that night. One of these tunes was “Aux
Champs Elysées” by Joe Dassin, a song about people being in love in Paris, which Chèze claims is known to every French person. “It was a very strong symbol,” said Chèze, “Our response to the terrorists is that we’re going to still sing. Spreading love in dark times is what we should do.” What should Sonoma State students’ response be to such horrendous atrocities?
COURTESY // Camille Chèze French exchange student Camille Chèze believes the world should continue to spread love in the wake of the attacks in Paris.
DREAM CENTER: Has support from Armiñana Continued from Pg. 1
closet in the HUB. “We can’t find any better place than a storage closet for these people that need help?” said Mercer. Associated Students tabled the resolution, and added their funding concerns to the document. The resolution will be voted on again Friday. Sonoma State University currently has some resources
available for undocumented students. The webpage sonoma.edu/ cals/ab540-undocumented has a list of Undocu-Ally trained staff members who can help undocumented students complete their process, as well as information about the DREAMers club on campus. According to Griselda Madrigal Lara, a senior Chicano and Latino studies major and the president of the DREAMers
club, a DREAM Center is very important and the right thing to do for Sonoma State’s undocumented student population. “Research has been done on SSU students and some of the recommendations show that the center should be in Salazar Hall, next to the EOP office,” said Madrigal-Lara. “There needs to be a conference room and a safe space for students to go for advice. There are many services
that students would benefit from and the center would provide them; services like legal services, financial aid, and a study area. I hope they can find a respectable place for it.” The study Madrigal-Lara references was conducted by Stephanie Segovia, a graduate student at the University of San Francisco on the needs and assessment of undocumented students. In her study, a focus group
gave recommendations on how colleges could better meet their needs. On top of this, Lara has been conducting her own survey about the needs of undocumented students at Sonoma State and how they could be implemented at a DREAM Center. Lara would like a space where there could be a computer and privacy for students.
CAMPUS CRIME Nov. 21 - Dec. 1
Crime Date Location
Status
Possess Weapon (Not Gun) 11/21/2015 Lot G Arrest: Lisa Possess Marijuana Over 28.5 Grams Trout, 52 Residence: Albany Vehicle Vandalism 11/22/2015 Parking Lot R4 Open Traffic Accident - Property Damage
11/25/2015
Parking Lot R1
Suspended
Driving Under the 11/27/2015 Parking Lot N Arrest: Salvador Influence of Alcohol/Drugs Vasquez, 37 Violation of Probations Residence: Santa Rosa Vehicle Vandalism/ 12/01/2015 Parking Lot M Suspended Vehicle Tampering
Courtesy: Sonoma State University Police Services
News
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
NEWS
University system revokes Cosby’s honorary
IN BRIEF
doctorate award J oseph Encinas Staff Writer
Rohnert Park Sonoma State University’s library will be open 24 hours until Dec. 18 at 5 p.m. in hopes of assisting students with their finals. The elongated hours have been popular and useful for students in the past. The first floor of the library is the designated round-the-clock study hall during the last few weeks of the term and this year the Charlie Brown Cafe will also stay open for 24 hours. The library will open on Saturday Dec. 19 for intersession hours.
Sonoma County The Sonoma County Transit pilot program constructed in 2014 by the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors, allows Sonoma County college students and veterans to ride the bus for free in 2015. The free rides program has recently been extended for another year. College students from Sonoma State University, Santa Rosa Junior College, Bauman College, and any other college institution in Sonoma County are included in the program. The program was created to help examine the effects that free fare has on ridership, traffic and the community. Today there will be a public hearing with the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors to contemplate any adjustments to the policies or bus fare rates for 2016.
Long Beach The California Faculty Association is fighting for a 5 percent salary increase, referred to as the “Fight for Five”. Last week, CFA President Jen Eagan and many others wrote a letter stating that her and more than 26,000 faculty don’t want to go on strike, but they will if they have to. Eagan attended the Board of Trustees meeting in November and attempted many times to contact CSU Chancellor Tim White in hopes to reach a mutual understanding of the financial impact of their low salaries. Some of the faculty have lost homes and have filed for bankruptcy while the executive salaries are the priority among meetings. A resolution does not seem near and the faculty will continue the “Fight for Five” in 2016 and at the 23 CSU campuses they will be wearing red the first week of classes next term.
Chicago In Washington D.C., Attorney General Lorretta Lynch has acquired many demands from elected officials about inspecting the Chicago Police Department for a Civil Rights Division investigation due to the police shooting and death of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald on Oct. 20, 2014. Lynch is expected to make a decision soon, after Civil Rights Division lawyers do their research on the investigation. The dashcam video released by police of the shooting of McDonald contradict with the police reports from their department. Officers along with the shooter, Jason Van Dyke said McDonald was threatening them with a knife while the video shows him turning away and leading in a direction away from the officers. Sixteen rounds of ammunition were shot at McDonald within seconds. Van Dyke was charged with murder 13 months after it occurred when the city of Chicago received a court order to force them to publicly release the video evidence.
East Lake, Florida A volunteer group in Florida has been making toys by hand for underprivileged children all year long. The group, known as the Toymakers of East Lake, have created a real-life Santa’s workshop. They make unique and exciting toys that take about an hour each to construct. One of the volunteers, Thaddeus Pollard, is a 95-year-old World War II veteran that helps in the workshop and spreads the holiday cheer. Each year the Toymakers personally deliver the gifts to children in hospitals, women and children’s shelters, and any child in need. This Christmas holiday 230 volunteers will hand out 12,000 toys to underprivileged children.
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ctor Bill Cosby had an honorary Doctor of Letters degree stripped from his armory of awards as California State University Board of Trustees voted on Nov. 18. The award was presented to Cosby in 1992 on behalf of California Polytechnic University, Pomona. “Mr. Cosby’s conduct is contrary to the values of the CSU and inconsistent with the criteria and high standards that honorary degree recipients are expected to exemplify,” said Director of Public Affairs for the Office of the Chancellor Toni Molle. Cosby finds himself at the center of a media firestorm as dozens of women accuse him of drugging and sexually assaulting them, but Cosby denies any foul play and has yet to be charged with a crime. As of early November, upwards of 60 women claim to have been a victim of rape, sexual battery, sexual battery, drug-induced sexual assault and/or sexual misconduct. The accusations stretch all the way back to the 1960s, when a younger Cosby was beginning his rise to fame through various television shows such as “I Spy” and “The Electric Company.” “It’s tough to believe that Bill Cosby engaged in one or two forced sexual encounters,” said DeVante Crable, transfer Junior at Sonoma State University, “so to hear so many women come forward, it is a little shocking and uncomfortable.” Besides the Cal State system, other institutions such as Fordham, Goucher, Baylor, the University of San Francisco, Marquette and the University of Missouri have revoked their doctorates bestowed to Cosby. On top of all of these revocations, Cosby also decided to step down from the Temple University Board of Trustees last December. The CSU Board of Trustees supports its decision by stating in a
press release that they wish to keep the integrity, prestige, reputation and credibility of the 23 higher education facilities, Cal Poly Pomona and any other honorary doctorate recipients. “I totally understand the reasoning behind taking away the award from him, but it also seems somewhat selfish on behalf of everyone taking things away from him just to preserve their image.” said Thomas Lynch, junior business marketing major at Sonoma State University. Cosby has been under fire from all aspects of his career; the hit television program “The Cosby Show” was pulled off the air by a few stations such as TV Land and BET. The scandal went so far and upset so many people, that the general public pushed to have President Barack Obama pull Cosby’s Presidential Medal of Freedom. “I think it’s pretty clear that he pissed a lot of people off with these scandals, but the public shaming and humiliation still does not do justice. I want to see the legal process take course to see the final verdict,” said Weston Henry, sophomore physics major at Sonoma State University. In the latest series of events in the chaotic saga that has become Bill Cosby’s life, Cosby and his team of lawyers are fighting many fronts in the US Court system to try to defend the integrity of the once beloved comedian. Since June 1963, when the first honorary degree was presented to the late President John F. Kennedy, this accolade has stood to grace recipients who have made impressive strides to benefit humanity, any of the 23 CSU campuses, the state, nation and/or the American population at large. The California State University Board of Trustees have presented a total of 502 awards to various distinguished individuals, and for the first time in 52 years, decided to take back the degree. To stay up to date with the latest recipients of any honorary degrees presented on behalf of the California State University, please visit calstate. edu/honorarydegrees.
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Arts
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
Sonoma County’s music craving finally fed Olivia Hunt Staff Writer
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inding something to do on the weekends here in Sonoma County is a difficult feat to accomplish as a college student. When having to take finances, distance and one’s genuine interest into consideration, finding something everyone in your friend group will enjoy on Saturday night can be a struggle. Anything involving music usually unites people with similar interests and creates an exciting community. Founded in 2013, Santa Rosa music venue, Pizza Punx, aimed to put Sonoma County on the entertainment map by organizing events to bring Bay Area bands to small venues and house shows in the area. They recognized that bands were only booking shows in San Francisco and Oakland and aimed to prove there was an opportunity to provide an outlet for dissatisfied music fans in Sonoma County. The group arrived at the decision to make this scene a reality on a random night of drinking and eating pizza—hence the name. “This place was dead, and it still is really. I think we wanted to breathe some life back into the area,” Co-founder Ian O’Connor said. “At first we were just doing it for ourselves, now it’s turned into something bigger than us.” This statement holds true, considering the group has had a handful of articles written about their movement, including a story featured in the North Bay Bohemian newspaper. O’Connor and his friends have created a unique environment for people who strive to be part of a close-knit and accepting community and also be surrounded by music. “It’s definitely an exciting experience attending the shows and discovering bands I would have never heard of otherwise,” said Sophomore Irina Zhuravskaya. The shows, mostly held on Saturday nights, cost little to nothing and have a rule that no one would be turned away for lack of funds. The primary reason for charging a fee in general is the fact that the scene is extremely community driven which allows for further shows to be organized.
The venue also doesn’t discriminate against age, allowing both younger and older people to attend, making the environment that much more welcoming. They make a point to be respectful of surrounding neighbors, stating on the event page to leave as soon as the show is over. It is strikingly clear when you attend the shows how much comradery surrounds the environment. Watching people interact with the bands in between sets and helping load up the equipment after indicates just how essential a setting like this can be for people seeking to find their place. “Finding out about Pizza Punx changed my experience at Sonoma State for the better. I’ve gotten to see tons of bands I like at all-ages venues locally, find out about new music, and make new friends,” regular patron of the shows, David Lechuga-Espadas said. “Many of the acts that come through Santa Rosa lately play in the bay area at 21+ venues, so it’s great to be able to see them at all, let alone so close to school.” Unfortunately, Pizza Punx is coming to an end, with their last show being Jan. 24. The culmination of the organization, O’Connor said, is due to “the gang falling apart, we’ve all grown up and taken different paths since then.” Proving that all their hard work paid off, the group managed to book garage-rock artist Ty Segall—a performer that’s been on their bucket list for a while. “Were going out with a bang, it’s going to be one for the books,” O’Connor said. Nevertheless, Pizza Punx wouldn’t be ending unless something else was emerging to fill its void. “Shock City” is the name of the new venue that O’Connor and friends are creating to continue the legacy of Pizza Punx. “We are going to keep the shows flowing in the area and seek to do what Pizza Punx did but on a larger, broader and more improved scale. This will be the more grown up version of what Pizza Punx was trying to be,” O’Connor said. As far as keeping the unity of the scene together, O’Connor says it’s constantly changing and evolving as much as the people involved in it are, and is excited for the future.
Courtesy // Ian O’Connor Santa Rosa’s music venue Pizza Punx will have its final show on Jan. 24, featuring musician Ty Segall.
instagram.com Jesus Garcia, Sonoma State University sophomore and social media star has 29,000 followers on Vine.
Jesus Garcia and his six to 15 seconds of fame
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Sean Curzon Staff Writer
he internet has opened up a whole new outlet to find entertainment and new celebrities. It has also opened a way for anyone to make said entertainment and become a celebrity. A rare example of this phenomenon can be found walking on Sonoma State University’s own campus: Jesus Garcia. Garcia is a sophomore pre-business administration major. He is also an internet personality with close to 1 million followers on Instagram between his two accounts. Garcia makes Vines, which are six to 15 second videos published on an account that he has accumulated thousands of followers on under the name mrchuy0123. His videos are comedy shorts, mainly focusing on Latino culture. “I think people relate to them,” Garcia said of his Vines. Garcia wants to reach a wide audience. “I try to do videos not just for Latinos, but for a broad audience.” When asked about where his ideas come from Garcia said, “When I’m out and about. Get them in my head and I write them down in my notes. If it makes me laugh, it goes up. If it doesn’t make me laugh I show it to some friends and if it doesn’t make them laugh it’s gone.” Garcia says that trying to keep a regular schedule as a student can be tough. It can be tougher when you have thousands of subscribers to entertain as well. “I try to do at least two videos a week. I try to do my work, if my assignment is just a worksheet, I can do it the next day. I can’t not do my videos.” said Garcia. Garcia’s favorite Vines are the ones that he feels that his audience can relate to.“The Spanish ones; they relate to my life. If I’ve gone through it all, then they’ve gone through it.” His Vines have even gotten him the attention of some big brands looking for new ways to advertise their products. He’s done work for Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” campaign. AT&T wanted to send him to Las Vegas to do something for the Latin Grammys, but he couldn’t go because he wasn’t 21, so he held a contest for one of his followers to go to the after party of the Latin Grammys. Garcia does get recognized time to time but not in person. He often gets Snapchat messages from fans. “[I recieve] Snapchats from people who didn’t know I went [to Sonoma State.] People ask me if [Sonoma State]’s really cool.” Garcia likes Sonoma State’s campus. “I like what the school has to offer.” He plans on moving to Los Angeles after he graduates in order to pursue his dream to be an actor. He hopes to use the promotions from brands to help build momentum. “Vine is going to die soon, I’m moving to Instagram and Facebook. Facebook is going to be the new YouTube.” He thinks that humor videos aren’t going to get any shorter. “We’re already down to six to 15 seconds. They can’t get any shorter than six seconds.” Regardless where social media goes he still is pretty confident on humor. “Comedy is going to stay the same,” said Garcia. Garcia’s Vines reach thousands of viewers. His Instagram that features his Vines is mrchuy0123 with a second Instagram at MexicansProblemas. His Vine can be found at vine.co/jesusgarcia. “Six to 15 seconds means a lot,” Garcia said.
Sonoma State students dance like everyone is watching Noe Felix Staff Writer
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he dance culture around Sonoma State University keeps growing, and shows no signs of slowing down. On Thursday night, the Fall Dance Concert premiered in Pearson Theatre and showcased many amazing performances. Almost every seat in the house was packed, and everyone was ready to see the show. Each piece was choreographed by Sonoma State students. The variety of styles spanned from hip-hop to contemporary to modern, and it was quite a sight to behold as these dances came to life on stage. Some were moody, some were upbeat, but each one was unique and brought something engrossing to the audience. One of the most moving pieces of the show was choreographer Peter A’s lyrical hip hop piece, “The Art of Expression.” The whole concept revolved around a famous interview with Bruce Lee, in which he discusses what martial arts means to him, and about its form of self-expression. The piece was chilling, as it began with A, along with dancers Tony La, Philip Gilbert, and Reggie Reguindin onstage wearing all black with white face masks reminiscent of the famous Jabbawockeez dance crew. Their movement was impactful and concise, and as each segment of the piece ended, a new part of Lee’s interview would give light to where the next piece was headed. A’s inspiration for this piece came from his love of Lee and his ideology. “I was looking over the philosophy that Bruce Lee
talks about in terms of martial arts,” he said. “How he views martial arts as a way to express himself, and I relate that to dance personally, because dance is also an art. Also, an art is defined as a way to express one’s self.” Hannah Ingwerson’s piece “For Example” was an emotional roller coaster. The contemporary piece had weight to it, letting the audience know that even the smallest of actions can affect others’ behaviors and lives. It was a piece that left people in awe. Things lighten up in the second act as Jasen Valdez’s hip-hop piece “TheBoard” had the audience cheering as the dance progressed. The piece mixed songs by well-known artists like Chance the Rapper to Beyoncé. Valdez’s dance was fun, sexy and exciting, among a myriad of other things. Take 5’s piece “Study Break” had everyone laughing uncontrollably as the dancers took the audience on a trip down memory lane. Using songs from Disney films like “Mulan” and “High School Musical”, La, A, Reguidin, Valdez and Farrah McAdam created the most humorous number in the show. These five dancers took turns lip-syncing all the iconic songs, while getting down to some smooth hip-hop choreography. The group wanted to deliver something that they hadn’t before. “The piece that we made last year had a lot of symbolism, made people feel a certain way and stuff,” said La. “This year we wanted to go a different route, more on the entertainment side and more on the side of us feeling good.” As the dancers took their bow at the end, standing ovations were all around. “I think it went really well, I had a great time,” said
Reguidin. “Yea the energy from the audience was superb, you could really feel it,” Allen added. Hopefully with this year’s great turnout, next years Fall Dance Concert will be even better. However, it’s going to be hard to top this year’s amazing pieces.
STAR // Brennan Chin Sonoma State students choreographed and performed dance pieces at the 2015 Fall Dance Concert.
Entertainment
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
Page 7
‘When It’s Dark Out’: G-Eazy’s sophomore success Kaila Sanders Staff Writer
Review
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espite the success of any debut album, an artist’s sophomore album is undoubtedly one of the most precarious ventures for any artist in the industry. It sure has been a life changing year for Bay Area rapper, G-Eazy (Gerald Gillum) as his fame has skyrocketed after the release of his 2014 debut album, “These Things Happen.” Now, one year later, after experiencing a new lifestyle of being young, rich and famous, the Oakland native has finally released his highly anticipated sophomore album, “When It’s Dark Out.” The album was released on Dec. 4, showing the world that the sophomore slump is no tribulation for this up and coming rapper. On “When It’s Dark Out,” G-Eazy continues to showcase the same unique style of rapping that first made him noteworthy. Unlike many of his competitors, G-Eazy smoothly raps in a manner where the words he’s saying are very clearly understood. The majority of his songs convey a unique point of view that is far more interesting than the mainstream. The sophomore album has G-Eazy straying away from the softer, lighthearted style that filled “These Things Happen” and instead demonstrates a much darker side. It’s a far more mature sound that reveals just how far G-Eazy has come, as his songs present more serious and distinguished content. The 17-track album features a number of guest appearances from some of the biggest names in the industry, including Chris Brown, E-40, Big Sean, Too Short, Keyshia Cole and Kehlani. The album showcases the rapper’s new life in the spotlight, as it’s divided into two sections of more meaningful songs and of more “turn-up” songs. “Everything Will Be OK” featuring Kehlani is one of the most emotional, personal tracks on the album that discusses traumatic events with his family. He speaks on his mom’s sexuality as he raps, “Such is life, even if it
took time for me to accept it/No longer dad now but a woman with whom she slept with.” The song’s chilling final verse will leave goosebumps on any listener’s skin as G-Eazy raps about the tragic passing of his mom’s girlfriend. “I shook her she was blue, her skin was cold, she wasn’t breathing/ Screamed, ‘Melissa wake up’ couldn’t fathom that she was leaving/ Mom and Bro was running down, I screamed ‘somebody help’/ Try pumping her chest, CPR, but it didn’t help,” he raps. G-Eazy opens up once again on another very introspective song, “Sad Boy.” The track battles between the rapper’s double sided personality as G-Eazy—the rapper and Gerald—the regular human being. He questions why the success of his debut hasn’t brought him the happiness he expected as he raps, “Gerald what you so sad for? / Why the hell you got the blues? / Everybody wanna be in your shoes/…Forgot you’re all famous now and rich?” “Think About You” is an emotional darker love song about breakups and his tragic romance for a certain girl. Taking a break from the introspective tracks, “You Got Me” and “Order More” are obvious turn-up tracks meant to be played in the clubs. “Drifting” featuring Chris Brown and Tory Lanez and “One of Them” featuring Big Sean are some of the more typically standard hip-hop tracks on the album. The braggadocios track, “Random” has a great sounding beat that works well with slower-paced verse. “Don’t Let Me Go,” “One of Them” and “Me, Myself & I” are respectable tracks that shed light on the struggles of dealing with new-found fame and the unglamorous realities that come along with it. “When It’s Dark Out” is a direct continuation of “These Things Happen” that work well together and practically fit together like puzzle pieces. It shows that G-Eazy has been working toward this his whole life and was well prepared for this moment. It is an impressive album that demonstrates how far G-Eazy has come as an artist as well as his infinite potential. There is no doubt that the combination of his unique rapping style and ability to create distinguished content has set him up for major stardom.
facebook.com Artist G-Eazy released his sophomore album on Dec. 4.
MOVIES RELEASING THIS WEEK 23
“The Big Short” - starring: Ryan
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facebook.com The comedy-horror film “Krampus” earned an impressive $16 million during its opening weekend.
And you thought the Grinch was scary Christine Edwards Staff Writer
Review
“K
rampus” serves up something a little different for the holidays with its unconventional, yet predictable mash-up of comedy and horror. This film attempts to charm the viewer with tasteless humor, showing a family trying to reinstate the Christmas spirit on the days leading up to the holiday. Evil forces are summoned to teach this family a lesson about the true meaning of Christmas, and freakish monsters come to the suburban home to torture these individuals. The beginning of the film has a “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” sort of theme to it, as the audience is introduced to a familiar setting of an American family hosting distant relatives for the Christmas holiday. It’s clear that the two families do not get along all that well as they clash and bicker from the moment they arrive. These visiting family members are rude and incredibly ungrateful to their hosts. The film is centered on Max, a young boy optimistic about Christmas, believing that Santa has the power to bring his family together. When his bratty cousins steal the letter he wrote to Santa Claus, Max loses his temper and a huge fight ensues
after his cousins read the letter in front of everyone at the dinner table. Embarrassed and fed up, Max tears up his letter to Santa, cursing the holiday and losing faith in the power of Christmas. This act reawakens Krampus, known from old European folklore as an evil anti-Santa, hellbent on teaching misbehaved kids a lesson on Christmas. This film was cowritten and directed by Michael Dougherty, who made his directorial debut in 2009 with “Trick r’ Treat,” a twisted Halloween themed film featuring a strange trickor-treater that punishes those that break Halloween traditions. This idea paralleled the theme he created in “Krampus,” and the film makes a timely debut right before the Christmas holiday. Dougherty is most well-known for his screenwriting work on superhero films “X2” and “Superman Returns,” and “Krampus” has a lot of otherworldly characters that delight the audience with fantastic scenes featuring evil elves and talking gingerbread cookies from hell. This film is not to be taken too seriously, and it’s clear that Dougherty had fun challenging the typical themes found in a holiday movie. The cast included some talented, big names such as Toni Collette and Adam Scott. Scott is most known for his role as Ben Wyatt in the sitcom “Parks and Recreation.” Collette and Scott play the role of the parents to main charac-
ter, Max, played by child actor Emjay Anthony. Although the characters are not developed all that deeply, there are a few memorable scenes with David Koechner, who is hilarious in films such as “Anchorman,” playing the wild gun-wielding uncle determined to take down Krampus and his evil cohorts. Emmy nominated Conchata Ferrell is equally entertaining in her role as the outspoken, alcoholic Aunt Dorothy. This film has some good things going for it. The whimsical creatures wreaking havoc on the family were elusive enough to keep the audience guessing what was going to happen next. The idea itself is somewhat original as well, and the crude humor was almost a breath of fresh air when comparing this film to cheesy holiday family films that tend to litter the big screen this time of year. Since character development was lacking, it was funny to watch the children get knocked off by the demonic forces one by one. As the film wore on, the intention of the filmmakers became evident as the satirical nature of the film stood out. More stupid than scary, this anti-Christmas movie would have any audience member shaking their head in disbelief. While it did offer some unique, interesting traits, “Krampus” is one to rush out to see in the theaters this holiday season.
ALBUMS RELEASING THIS WEEK R. Kelly - “The Buffet” (R&B)
Gosling, Steve Carell, Brad Pitt, Christian Bale “Legend” - starring: Tom Hardy, Emily Browning, Taron Egerton “In the Heart of the Sea” - starring: Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson
T-Pain - “Stoicville: the Phoenix” (Rap) Grimes - “Art Angels” (Electronica) Lizzo - “Big GRRRL World” (Hip-Hop)
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Student Life
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
STAR // Megan Corcoran With finals just around the corner, students are beginning to feel the stress that the exams inevitably bring every semester. Sonoma State University however has prepared numerous activities for students to unwind and take a break from their studies.
Seawolves gear up for finals week Jerri Cohen Staff Writer
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s the semester comes to a close, one obstacle stands between students and the holiday fun to be had over winter break, and that’s finals. As final exams loom nearer, students’ stress levels rise. To combat high stress during this time, Sonoma State University is providing stress-relieving fun at the Student Center. On Sunday, Dec. 13 the popular game Apples to Apples will be available for students to play as laughter is the best way to chase away stress. There will also be a snowman sock craft being offered for the artistically inclined. According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, working with your hands can help to reduce stress. Having a cute homemade craft to bring home is also a great bonus. On Dec. 14, take off the competitive edge by participating in a Yahtzee tournament. Yahtzee is an exciting dice game that is based on luck, not skill so it’s no problem if one has never played. For crafting, there will be a modge podge LED tea light candle holder craft. This craft not only helps to reduce stress but can add something decorative to have around a study area for the rest of the week. On Dec. 15, the name of the game is bingo. A great social game, bingo is guaranteed to be a great study break. A gingerbread house decorating session is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Use colorful candy and snowy frosting to get into the holiday spirit with this holiday tradition. On Dec. 16, a fast paced game of Spoons will help students get through the middle of a long finals week. Students aren’t just worried about studying this holiday season, they also worry about gift-giving. After studying for many long hours, students can
make a succulent jar as a homemade gift for the plant lover in their life. One can relax and check a gift off their list at the same time. All of these fun activities can greatly reduce ones stress and offer something fun to do during a long deserved break. When it comes to hitting the books, having the right study spot can also help to make finals a little more bearable. Another great place to reduce stress during finals is to take a break at the gym. In a study conducted by the American Heart Association, exercise can help reduce stress for up to 24 hours after a workout is completed. Exercise is also proven to help improve focus and information recall. Meaning that not only will it help students deal with stress, but it will also help when it comes time to take their tests. The Schulz Information Center and the Student Center will be open for 24 hours from Dec. 6 to Dec. 13 in order for students to dedicate every second of their time to studying for finals. Both places are great places to get work done, but there are many great alternatives around Rohnert Park for those looking to get away. Honey Badger Coffee, located on 101 Golf Course Dr., is a great spot for early morning studiers. Open at 6 a.m., with coffee readily available, it’s a great spot for writing a paper or going over lecture slides. For more quiet studrs, the Cotati Regional Library is a great spot to maintain deep focus. In contrast to the library on campus, it’s unlikely many students will be there making it a very quiet spot with less of a social component than the on campus study spots. Although all these tips can help students have a more mentally and physically healthy finals season, this time can remain stressful. If one is struggling, contact Psychological Services on campus for support.
Award-winning poet to come to Sonoma State Megan Corcoran Staff Writer
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am Sax is all about “Poems on poems on poems.” A Poetry Fellow at the Michener Center for Writers, Sax will be reading his work at Sonoma State University on Wednesday, Dec. 9. He is the special guest this month at SPOKE, a monthly event hosted by the HUB on campus for the Sonoma State community to share their poetry and listen to the work of others. Sax has made his name known in the national poetry community. He was a finalist for the Ruth Lily Fellowship from the Poetry Foundation, which is one of the largest awards offered to young poets in the United States between the ages of 21 and 31, and is intended to encourage young poets to continue the study and writing of poetry. Sax is also a 2015 NEA Creative Writing Fellow. The National Endowment for the Arts is an independent federal agency that gives Americans the opportunity to pursue their creative talents in the arts. They aim to provide equal access to the arts in every community across America. As a Fellow at the Michener Center for Writers, Sax is the Editor-in-Chief of The Bat City Review. The Bat City Review is an annual literary journal run by graduate students at the University of Texas at Austin, where the Michener Center is located. The Review features poetry, fiction, creative non-
fiction and visual art. Sax is a two time Bay Area Grand Slam Champion and the author of several chapbooks. A chapbook is a small, typically 40-page book with a collection of poetry that usually centers on a theme. Sax’s chapbooks include “A Guide to Undressing Your Monsters”, “Sad Boy/Detective”, and “All The Rage”. “Sad Boy/Detective” was the 2014 Winner of the Black River Chapbook Prize from Black Lawrence Press. “Sad Boy/Detective” received large amounts of praise after winning the Black River Chapbook Prize. In the first excerpt, “Boy Detective gets his start”, Sax writes, “To break free of your mother into a world / so bright it’s impossible to understand. / When even language is a photocopy of someone else’s speaking mouth. / It didn’t make sense: slim key in a galaxy of holes. / No. / He had to figure it out.” Sax’s poems have been featured in The Beloit Poetry Journal, Best New Poets, Boston Review, Indiana Review, New England Review, Ninth Letter, Pleiades, Poetry Magazine and other journals and websites. “I’ve read several of Sax’s poems and I’m really excited to hear him talk at the next SPOKE,” junior Taryn Wilmers said. “You can’t help but like his work, it’s so great.” Sax will be at Sonoma State speaking at the HUB’s SPOKE event on Dec. 9. The event runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and will be located on the second floor of the Student Center.
facebook.com Sam Sax, a graduate student from the University of Texas at Austin, is coming to Sonoma State on Dec. 9 as part of the HUB’s SPOKE series.
Remembering to give back during the holidays Sammuel Davis Staff Writer
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he Winter Holiday season has arrived and people are in full throttle searching for gifts for their loved ones, friends, co-workers and peers. As busy college students, interns and professionals, we tend to not take notice that fifteen percent of the population lives below the poverty line. As students of Sonoma State University, there are an array of methods students can do to make an impactful impact on the community, by lending a helping hand to those in a sufficient need. Many businesses and organizations are putting together toys and food drives throughout Sonoma County and the greater Northern-California region. Students can make a profound difference by volunteering and assiting in food drives or simply giving their time, a treasurable value. Volunteers are needed on Dec. 22 in Cotati during a food drive. All volunteers are welcome to come help assemble food boxes and deliver them all throughout the County of Cotati. This food will go to those in need in Cotati. If volunteers have any questions or need more details, they may contact the California Homemakers Association at (707)591-9572. If one is busy with finals coming their way and have no time to volunteer, they can also donate food and toys. One’s donation could help a family enjoy a simple Christmas dinner and celebrate a gathering. In Sonoma County, all Redwood Credit Union Banks are collecting toy and food donations for local non-profits. Through Dec. 18, people are encouraged to bring new toys or non-perishable foods to any Redwood Credit Union for holiday distribution. All of these toys will help fund the Sonoma County Volunteer Center secret santa program and Empire Food Bank. Redwood Credit Union Banks have collected more than 1,500 gifts as well as over 1,100 foods that have been donated by members of the community. To find the nearest location, go to redwoodcu.org for a list of Redwood Credit Unions. The place thousands of students call home, needs help this holiday season. The holidays are much more than just receiving gifts, but giving back to the community. One small, kind gesture can change someone’s Christmas and make a memory that will be everlasting.
Student Life
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
Page 9
Seawolves SPEAK! Studying abroad after the Paris attacks Aubrey Enzelmo Staff Writer
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he recent terrorist attacks in Paris that occurred on Nov. 13 have left the rest of the world in standstill shock over the devastation caused and the significant number of lives lost. Nations have joined together in support over the recent loss in Paris. With the declared state of emergency now enforced in France, there has been an increase in precaution of safety all over the world and if students are truly safe as they study abroad. The STAR asked Sonoma State University students, “Have the recent attacks in Paris deterred you away from studying or even traveling abroad?”
“To submit to the fears of terrorist actions is, in essence, falling victim to their desires...In fact, I believe that traveling abroad would help strengthen the idea of international support, which is something that is most needed in this time of struggle.” -Matt Lindberg, fourth year liberal studies/ acting major
“The Paris attack was very tragic for many people around the world...but it did not defer me from my studies. I do worry for those who were involved and I hope they can get past this event, and to encourage people to be careful when they do choose to travel.” -Amber Vang, fourth year women and gender studies major
“The attacks on Paris were not only devastating for France, but worldwide. It is important for these events to not stop us from traveling, but it is best to stay on high alert in times like these.” -Ryan Novak, third year business major
“This tragic event did not scare me from traveling abroad. Of course some countries are worse than others, but it hasn’t scared me to the point where I wouldn’t travel or live in Europe and the area around the continent.” -Nick DiMario, first year environmental studies major
Thinking about
GRADUATE SCHOOL? Tuesday,
Friday,
Dec. 8
Dec. 11
ASP Tunes at Noon
Live at Lobo’s
12 p.m.
featuring Lobo’s
Seawolf Plaza
Trivia 9 p.m.
Global
Lobo’s
Governance, People Power and
SSU Improvaholics
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5:30 p.m.
11:55 p.m.
Ives 101
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Dec. 13
SPOKE featuring
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Sam Sax
8:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
Student Center
The HUB Pacifica Quartet Women of Color
with Pianist
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3 p.m.
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Weill Hall
Come Explore The More Than 50 Graduate Programs We Offer In: » Arts and Sciences » Education » Law
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Page 10
Sports
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
Volleyball team’s historic season comes to an end Tommy Call Asst. Sports Editor
A
fter 22 straight victories and a conference championship, the Sonoma State University women’s volleyball team’s dominating run came to a sad end. The No. 3 seeded Seawolves were upset by the No. 6 seed UC San Diego Tritons in the first round of the NCAA championship tournament at the Alaskan Airlines arena in Anchorage, Alaska last Friday. The Seawolves steam rolled their way through the CCAA conference championship tournament, winning 3 games including a 3-2 match against Cal State San Bernardino in the CCAA final. The 22nd straight victory sealed the CCAA crown for the back-to-back champs. The Seawolves were proud to take home some CCAA hardware. “It was really exciting winning the CCAA tourney because we worked really hard all season to win it,” said sophomore setter Calan Seitz. “It’s very rewarding to know that all our hard work payed off.” The Seawolves season was not over yet, after they earned a trip to Alaska for the west region NCAA tournament. They drew a matchup with a familiar foe, the UC San Diego Tritons. The Seawolves beat the Tritons earlier this season in a 3-2 match. The journey to the snowy north of Alaska was a memorable experience for the Seawolves itself. “Traveling to Alaska with the team was an unforgettable experience. We enjoyed every minute of the trip together,” said Seitz. “Especially knowing that it could be the last of the season.” The Seawolves’ winning ways looked like they would continue up in Alaska after the first set of the match in which the Seawolves jumped out to an early lead, winning the first set in rather easy fashion 2515. Momentum shifted in favor of UC San Diego for the remainder of the match. The Tritons went on to win the next 3 sets and completing the upset of the Seawolves. The Seawolves led the game in errors and were also out hit
and out blocked. “We gave it our all just like we always do, but this time it just ended up not being enough,” said Seitz. The Seawolves will not let this loss in the NCAA tournament take anything away from their historic season. “It was definitely an emotional loss for us. I speak for the whole team when I say that we are still extremely proud of our season no matter how it ended,” said Seitz. “The loss didn’t take anything away from our amazing season because we are all very proud on how far we have gone.” Sonoma State will say goodbye to three seniors this year, including Seawolf legend Caylie Seitz. Seitz had one of the most decorated volleyball careers in Sonoma State history. The Santa Rosa product was recently honored with CCAA player of the year and CCAA tournament MVP.
sonomaseawolves.com The Seawolves captured their second consecutive CCAA championship crown before being eliminated by UC San Diego last Friday in the NCAA conference championship tournament.
Men’s basketball team drops two after hot start Justin Barrientos Staff Writer
T
he Sonoma State University men’s basketball team lost back to back contests this past week, losing to the nationally ranked Tritons of UC San Diego on Wednesday 69-55, while also coming up short against the Cal State San Marcos Cougars 67-60 on Saturday night. The Seawolves who were coming off of a four game winning streak after starting 1-1, looked to capitalize on their momentum in preparation for a CCAA matchup with the undefeated, #22 ranked UC San Diego on Wednesday night in the Wolves Den. The game marked the first in conference play for both teams. Early in the game, the Tritons jumped out to a commanding lead, pulling ahead 14-3 just before the 10-minute mark in the first half. The Seawolves however, fought their way back and pulled within three points at the half. Unfortunately for the Seawolves, this was as close as they would get to for the remainder of the game, as the Tritons caught fire in the second half, shooting 60 percent from the field, including a lights out 58.3 percent from three point territory. For the duration of the entire game, the Tritons made over half the shots they took, shooting 53 percent compared to only 37.1 percent by the Seawolves. The Seawolves shooting woes primarily came from beyond the arc where they shot a dismal 20 percent. Junior guard Ronnie Harris had a noteworthy performance, scoring team high 11 points while shooting 75 percent from the field in just 21 minutes of play. Looking to rebound from their mid-week loss, the Seawolves then hit the road on Saturday to face Cal State San Marcos in southern California, for their second consecutive conference matchup. The teams played a hotly contested game, trading buckets throughout. With under a quarter of the game left, the score was knotted up at 52, when Ronnie Harris gave the Seawolves the lead. However, the Cougars answered right back with five consecutive points of their own. Harris pulled the team within a single point with just under three minutes left to play in the game, but the Seawolves failed to contain the Cougars offensive attack down the stretch as the Cougars went on a 10-3 run in the final minutes of the game, ultimately winning the contest 67-60.
Seitz was also named West Region player of the year, which was a first for the volleyball program. Seitz stands at second in all of Division II in career kills with 1676. Caylie’s sister, Calan, said her sister’s hard work paid off. Caylie had an incredible career at Sonoma State, being an impactful player on and off the court. “She was a very hard working teammate that inspired and motivated all of us,” said Calan. “I can honestly say that Caylie worked hard not for the records, not for the awards; she worked hard for the team.” Seitz is being considered for Division II AllAmerican honors and honorees will be announced in the near future. Western Washington would go on to beat UC San Diego in the semi-finals, and then went on to beat UC San Bernadino in the finals, which punched the team a ticket to the women’s NCAA Elite Eight championship tournament in Tampa, Florida.
Harris led the team in scoring for the second consecutive game, putting up 17 points on an impressive 70% from the floor. The Seawolves shooting struggles continued for their second consecutive game as their overall shooting percentage (37.7), was almost five points worse than their opponent (42.6). The Seawolves look to get their first conference win of the season as they head to Arcata to take on the Humboldt State Lumberjacks on Friday night at 7:30 p.m.
STAR // Nicole Detmers Junior Naaman Hightower, #34, drives the ball inside against visiting UC San Diego.
SEAWOLVES SPORTS
Friday, Dec. 11 Women’s basketball at Humboldt State 5:30 p.m. Men’s basketball at Humboldt State 7:30 p.m.
STAR // Nicole Detmers Senior Andy Mitchell, #2, goes for a block against UC San Diego last Wednesday.
Courtesy of sonomaseawolves.com
Sports Chemistry is key
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
Page 11
Senior Andy Mitchell will be looked upon to help push the Seawolves into the postseason Aubrie Tolliver Staff Writer
T
he Sonoma State University men’s basketball team’s season is now in full swing. Led by a group of six seniors, the team is looking to make a comeback in their 2015-2016 season from their previous unsuccessful years. One of those seniors that can be found on the court for the Seawolves is Andy Mitchell, a 6-foot-3 guard from Hayward. After eight games, Mitchell currently holds a .352 field goal percentage and leads his team with 40 rebounds. Also, his 63 points this season accounts for over 11 percent of the Seawolves’ total points. Mitchell put on the Sonoma State uniform for the first time last fall after transferring from Ohlone Junior College in Fremont. He quickly found a home wearing number two for the Seawolves. He was brought to Sonoma State after being recruited by the Seawolf coaching staff. Mitchell says that coaches Pat Fuscaldo and Rich Shayewitz were the ultimate reason why he chose to play in Rohnert Park. “Coach Fuscaldo and Coach Rich really create an environment where players feel safe,” said Mitchell. “I felt more confident playing here than anywhere else.” Some say that confidence is a critical component of any sport and keeping that mentality is what Mitchell finds most difficult about the game of basketball, he says. “Sometimes you’ll have a bad game or a bad play in the game. You can focus on it or find a way to get past it,” said Mitchell. “You have to figure out ways when you’re not playing well to play better or how to attack a situation.” However, Mitchell says that whenever those dif-
COURTESY// sonomaseawolves.com Andy Mitchell holds a .352 field goal percentage and leads the Seawolves with 40 rebounds. Mitchell’s leadership will be crucial to the team’s success if they wish to make the postseason. ficult times do arise, he is able to rely not only on his coaches to help him, but also his teammates. “My teammates are great,” said Mitchell. “There is not a single guy that I do not love on the team.” The chemistry between the Sonoma players is something that can’t go unnoticed by fans due to the constant cheering and laughter that stems from the Seawolf bench during a game. But, Mitchell says that he enjoys hanging out with his teammates off the court as well. For instance, one his favorite activities to play with his teammates, he said, is milk carton golf—a game that was created by past and current teammates. “I can’t even tell you all of the dumb things we do to have fun,” he admitted. As for basketball, Mitchell’s ultimate goal for his
senior season is to make it to the postseason, which means the Seawolves will have to finish in the top six of their conference. After that, Mitchell says his next objective is to win the conference tournament and make it to playoffs. “I would like senior year to go out with a bang,” said Mitchell. “Let’s get there, let’s win it and do the best we can.” Mitchell and the Seawolves will look to get their first conference win of the season as they hit the road to take on the Humboldt State Lumberjacks on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. For the rules and instructions regarding milk carton golf, contact Andy Mitchell or the players of the Sonoma State men’s basketball team.
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Page 12
Photo
Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2015
sonomastatestar.com
Sonoma State University students perform at the annual Fall Dance Concert
STAR // Brennan Chin Sonoma State University students gathered on Thursday to watch the university’s annual Fall Dance Concert held in Person Theatre.
STAR // Brennan Chin STAR // Brennan Chin
Sonoma State students perform at the Fall Dance Concert at Person Theatre.
Sonoma State University students gathered on Thursday to watch the university’s annual Fall Dance Concert held in Person Theatre.
STAR // Brennan Chin Sonoma State University students gathered on Thursday to watch the university’s annual Fall Dance Concert held in Person Theatre.
STAR // Brennan Chin Sonoma State students perform at the Fall Dance Concert at Person Theatre.
STAR // Nicole Detmers Seawolf James Slade, #32 shot over Drew Dyer, #14 of UC San Diego.
STAR // Nicole Detmers Associated Students President Brandon Mercer spoke at the Associated Students meeting to discuss a future DREAM Center.
STAR // Nicole Detmers STAR // Nicole Detmers Ronnie Harris, #10 drives to the basket against UC San Diego.
Associated Students met to discuss a future DREAM Center to assist Sonoma State’s undocumented student population.