Volume 76 // Issue 11

In this issue:

Sports: Softball team advances to CCAA playoffs.

Pg. 10

Opinion: New U.S. currency long-time coming. Pg. 3 News: Interview with new Associated Students president. Pg. 4 Student Life: Coachellathemed fashion. Pg. 9 SINCE 1979

VOLUME 76 // ISSUE 11

APRIL 26 - MAY 2, 2016

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

Student chosen for national dance festival in Washington D.C. Nate Galvan Staff Writer

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STAR // Brennan Chin Students gathered for SSUTV’s annual Cinenoma last Thursday, a film festival featuring student-made films. Bria Gabor (left), a senior communications major, was named best actress for her role in “Roommates.” Mary-Madison Baldo (right), a recent graduate of Sonoma State, attended the event to support her fellow film-making students.

Student film-makers celebrated at Cinenoma Emma Devitt Asst. A & E Editor

W

alking the red carpet in formal attire, lights flashing as photographers take photos, the smell of popcorn wafting through the air, and excitement in the atmosphere asfilmmakers and attendees mingle. This was the beginning of a beautiful night to remember at SSUTV’s Fifth Annual Film Festival, Cinenoma.

Nine films were entered into the festival this year, each of them unique in style andstory. Students, family members and friends came together to support the filmmakers in the Student Center Ballroom. In addition to watching the films, attendees participated in a raffle that included DVDs, candy and popcorn to take home.

While the beginning of the evening was plagued by sudden technical difficulties, this misfortune didn’t keep attendees from enter-

taining themselves. Bria Gabor, senior communications major, led the entire group in a game of “Heads Up” in order to keep the festivities going.

After the films were screened, four awards were given out for Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Cinematography and Best Picture. Gabor won Best Actress for her role in her own film, “Roommates. The film summed up the college experience: Living with a messy roommate and constantly cleaning up after them.

Gabor began her journey into film through theater class in middle school and high school. She first submitted a film to Campus MovieFest her freshman year at Sonoma State.

“I submitted a film that was really terrible, but it’s only gotten better from there. I’ve met amazing people through it,” said Gabor.

“But I’m so thankful we get to have events like this where we can submit our work and professionals critique them, it’s just an honor.”

Best Actor went to Brett Mollard for his performance his film “Youth,” an incredible, heart-breaking film about a 21-­year-old going back in time to warn his 18-­year-old self of a terrible future.

Unfortunately, Mollard was not present to accept his award. Best Cinematography went to Jimmy Rich for his film “Animals,” a story about a boxer getting ready for a fight. Rich accepted his award with a smile and let the audience know his film was just a snippet from a feature film he’ll be releasing later this year.

Best Picture went to Miles Levin, a Santa Rosa Junior College student, for his film “A Life of Your Choosing.” The film featured a golden retriever who wished for the life of a human, while humans wished for a life like his.

\See CINENOMA on Pg. 6

or the first time in university history, a student from Sonoma State University has been selected to participate in the National College Dance Festival in Washington D.C. Hannah Ingwerson is a dance and hutchins major in her sixth year at Sonoma State. Her dance, “For Example,” was chosen to represent the ACDA west conference at this year’s national festival, occurring every other year.

“It’s putting Sonoma State on the map,” said Ingwerson. “It’s a way to network, make connections and show off the university away from west coast, especially in a dance setting.”

Hosted by the ACDA — the American College Dance Association — dance programs from 31 schools from across the United States will be at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in June to perform in front of an panel of adjudicators.

Selected by Sonoma State’s faculty to represent the theater and dance department, Ingwersen’s performance was originally showcased in March at the West Regional Conference at Scottsdale Community College in Arizona.

The conference was a four day event with students taking classes ranging from technique to costume design, from faculty members from all participating schools.

In the evening, there were formal showings with each school showing off the piece they had prepared that brought them to the conference.

Full of internationally recognized dance artists,

scholars and educators, the adjudicators representing the ACDA chose Ingwersen’s routine to be one of the two to represent the west region in the national festival.

Adjudicating in this type of setting is not the same as judging, as the collection of dance experts are looking at a routine qualitatively and aesthetically to determine what they like and dislike about a piece. There is no ranking of first, second or third, but Ingwerson does believe it’s a huge deal just to have made it to nationals.

“We are a very small dance program,” said Sonoma State Dance Professor Kristen Daley. “I compare this selection to a 16 seed making the NCAA final four in basketball.”

Ingwerson will not be traveling alone as her cast, made up of four other dance majors, and the two dance professors, Daley and Christine Cali, will all be going to Washington D.C. Ingwerson and her cast will perform on June 10, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The two time slots allow for ample availability of tickets to not only the performers’ families, but the general public as well. All dances will be presented at the Terrace Theater at the Kennedy Center with rehearsals and a few technique classes available to students held at George Washington University.

A Santa Rosa native, Ingwerson accounts one of the reasons for her coming to SSU being the teachings of Professor Daley. Getting her Masters of Fine Arts from the University of Washington, a program See DANCE on Pg. 4

Voting begins on tentative faculty salary agreement Katelyn Quinn Staff Writer

STAR // Megan Corcoran The proposed faculty strike was cancelled earlier this month and faculty have begun voting on the agreement reached between the association and the CSU.

Follow The STAR:

@sonomastatestar

The polls opened last Friday for voting on the recent California State University salary agreement that ended a proposed faculty strike earlier this month. The voting period began at 6 a.m. last Friday and will remain open until noon this Friday. Those in the California Faculty Association will be able to vote on whether the California State University Board of Trustees will finalize the agreement through email.

For years, the CFA have fought for better salaries. The CSU Board of Trustees eventually complied and set up a plan for a 2 percent increase in the salaries as well as distribution for all programs within the CSU, but the CFA felt that increase was still too low. As a result, the association created a campaign to get the board to listen.

@sonomastatestar

A plan to strike in April was devised but postponed after the board finally stepped in to provide a new plan.

This time, the new agreement called for a 10.5 percent increase that would be divided into portions over the next three years, with enough left over for distribution to the programs. This satisfied both the faculty association and the board, although now it requires votes to be implemented.

“This tentative agreement is really good for faculty looking forward,” said Elaine Newman, president of Sonoma State’s California Faculty Association chapter. “It isn’t perfect — it doesn’t make up for the lack of significant raises in the last 10-15 years, but it is a start.

Additionally, our bargaining power has increased for the future.”

The rest of the association is generally optimistic about the agreement.

“I feel the agreement is an accept-

/sonomastatestar

able compromise,” said Sam Brannen, secretary of Sonoma State’s CFA chapter and math professor. “The fact that our 5 percent raise for this year to begin on June 30 is not retroactive means that we really got 0 percent this year. However, combined with the 2 percent raise for next year that begins on July 1, we are essentially getting a 7 percent raise next year. ” The agreement calls for the re-allocation of funds in the CSU budget.

“Most importantly, it’s not coming from the pockets of students, but from the allocation of state funds,” said Thomas Targett, member of Sonoma State’s CFA and physics and astronomy professor.There has been nearly a decade of salary stagnation, which caused an effect 10 percent loss in spending power for the campuses.

See VOTING on Pg. 5

Visit: sonomastatestar.com

Page 2

Editorial

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

THE STAR Editorial Board

Brandon Stachnik, Editor-in-Chief Peter Njoroge, Executive Editor Kayla E. Galloway, News Editor Joseph Encinas, Asst. News Editor Jenna Fischer, Opinion Editor Ashley Mar tin, Ar ts & Enter tainment Editor Emilie Devitt, Asst. A&E Editor Shannon Brown, Student Life Editor Ethan Helms, Asst. Student Life Editor Thomas Call III, Spor ts Editor Aubrie Tolliver, Asst. Spor ts Editor Brennan Chin, Photo Editor Kimberley Baptista, Copy Editor Kyler Khan, Copy Editor Julia Albo, Editorial Car toonist Cassandra Owens, Adver tising Director Connor Gibson, Distribution Director Paul Gullixson, Faculty Adviser

Staff Writers Audrey Altman, Diana Arroyo, Shane Bickford Nikki Bridges, Josephine Clements, Sean Curzon Rene De Amaral, Nicole Detmers, Christine Edwards Noe Felix, Sarah Fishback, Nathanael Galvan Nicholas Gray, Florencia Hasson, Michele Herber t Naaman Hightower, Olivia Hunt, Allison Kelley Vasilios Loufas, Rachel McCloskey, Katelyn Quinn Kathryn Reidy, Blake Robinson, Carly Saber Bianca Sanborn, Edgar Sanchez, Andrea Serles Nathan Shapiro, Jessica Shipma, Kristen Spear Hailee Zastrow

Photographers Megan Corcoran, Sara Wildman, Shane Bickford, Kaila Sanders

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:

“Beyoncé turns a sour past into ‘Lemonade’”

Famed pop-star Beyoncé released one of her most moving albums yet last week. Staff Writer Noe Felix explains that “Lemonade” depicts a transparent and tough Beyoncé who is flourishing despite a troubled past.

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.

STAR // Julia Albo

The serious shortage of student representation

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onoma State University has seen its share of changes and improvements over the years, with the addition of the Student Center, International Hall and most recently, LoboVision — which proved to be a center of controversy for many students.

Decisions on college campuses are often made behind closed doors by administrators who lack the insight students have when it comes to what a college campus needs. Representation and transparency are two words often heard together when discussing the politics of higher education — and for good reason.

Earlier in the spring semester, many students questioned who makes the decisions to bring something like LoboVision to campus and why it was necessary. Or in other words, who is at the forefront of making decisions that affect students’ education?

Do students truly have a say in what happens at Sonoma State or are they at the mercy of administrators when it comes to changes to campus?

Sonoma State is made of multiple committees intended to make the decisions that affect students.

Those committees include the Student Center Board of Advisers, the Campus Reengineering Committee and the Campus Planning Committee. All of these committees have student representatives who play a role in decision makings. In hindsight, having a few se-

lect students chosen to sit on these decision-making boards seems like an effective way to represent the voice of the student body.

But can a small number of students truly reflect the needs and wants of a student population of more than 9,000? Probably not.

And how can campus and academic life be improved with such a small number of student representatives?

The caveat with the university’s process of including such few students on these boards is that these students are expected to talk to their fellow students about what’s going on around campus.

In recent years, Sonoma State students have expressed discontent with many of the changes implemented, including the Green Music Center and the financial implications on the university, the Student Center and even the reserved parking lot next to the Student Center.

In our view, a minimal effort was made to reach out to students in regard to these changes.

It’s understandable to ask all students be included in the decisions being made on the campus — but from the other side of the spectrum, do students at Sonoma State actually care about the campus and the decisions being made?

Are students simply apathetic to the issues that surround Sonoma State?

College students are often quick to voice anger or discontent when it comes to things that affect

their lives and education. But when given the opportunity to change things at their university, do students back down and shy away from being a part of the decisionmaking process or would students actually step up and bring change to their campus?

When it comes to LoboVision, many students became aware of its existence the day it was installed on to the wall of the Recreation Center.

Though this change to campus may seem small, students would still like to be included in the discussion before things like LoboVision come to campus.

Transparency and representation are the keys to a united campus and the STAR asks administrators to consult more students — if not the entire campus — before decisions that affect students are made.

It’s also important to remember that the student body is constantly changing.

If a decision is made in one year for a change on campus, two years later, when it’s finally implemented, roughly half the student body may have no idea what is going on.

With so many students unaware of things going on at Sonoma State, it’s imperative students’ voices be represented and students be kept informed.

We hope things can become more transparent with the new university president alongside our new Associated Students president.

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.

Opinion

A pril 26 - M ay 2, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

U.S. currency gets a fresh face

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A potentially frightening future

Misha Herbert Staff Writer

Rene De Amaral Staff Writer

or the first time in over a century, the portraits on the $20, $10 and $5 bills are going through a major overhaul. The space used exclusively for white former presidents and historical figures will now be occupied with a diverse and culturally-significant group of men and women.

Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, who unveiled the changes on April 20, explained this momentous decision: “When I announced last June that a new redesign would feature a woman, I hoped to encourage a national conversation about women in our democracy.” He says the response to this redesign has been “powerful.”

The face of the $20 bill, which is currently claimed by 7th U.S. President Andrew Jackson, will soon feature Underground Railroad champion Harriet Tubman.

Jackson, who will be moving to the back of the $20 bill, owned slaves and boasts the major legislative accomplishment of creating the act that led to the Trail of Tears, which forced thousands of Cherokees from their land.

Harriet Tubman, who escaped slavery as a young woman, has long-since been revered as a main “Conductor” of the Underground Railroad. She is triumphed for leading thousands of slaves to freedom through the network of tunnels that traveled from the south to the north.

She also worked as a spy for the Union Army during the Civil War, and was the first American woman to lead a military expedition The back of the $10 bill, where the Treasury building is currently printed, will undergo a redesign to commemorate a 1913 march that ended on the steps of that very building. This portrait will include women’s rights gamechangers Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, Alice Paul and Sojourner Truth.

This group of women, while often left out of the historical conversation, was imperative to the passing of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

According to Secretary Lew, the $5 bill will also undergo change: “The illustration of the Lincoln Memorial on the back will be redesigned to honor events at the Lincoln Memorial that helped to shape our history and our democracy.”

Where the Lincoln memorial is currently printed, we will soon see Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who gave his famous “I Have A Dream” speech on the steps of the monument in 1936; Marion Anderson, an AfricanAmerican opera singer, who gave a concert at the memorial in 1939 after she had been blocked from singing at the then-segregated Constitution Hall; and Eleanor Roosevelt, who was an outspoken political activist and arranged Anderson’s concert despite the backlash from segregationists.

Gabe Bullard of National Geographic wrote, “We in the United States have been putting dead white statesmen on our coins for so long that it’s been unquestioned for some time now.”

But this redesign of our bills allows us to do just that: question who our idols are, and learn from them.

For any non-American visitor who enters our country, the faces they see on our money serve as the most thorough representation of our history they will likely see.

It would do us well to also look at our currency through these fresh eyes. What did the people in these portraits do for our country? How did they help us grow into who we are as a nation today?

With the new redesign of the Federal Reserve Note, we are one step closer to commemorating our truthful history, and the people who helped shape it for the better.

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remember when Donald Trump first announced he was going to run for president.

With it brought internet memes, Saturday Night Live skits and talkshow hosts to comment on him and his potential presidency. To a lot of people, it was all a joke, but now Donald Trump is doing extremely well in the polls and people are starting to realize the threat he poses.

With all the outlandish, racist and sexist things he says, it’s ridiculous to think he appeals to so many Americans. The possibility of Trump becoming president is terrifying. Presidential candidates have always promised things while running, and often can’t deliver when they actually reach office.

According to the Office of the Clerk for the House of Representatives, the majority of the House of Representatives and Congress is Republican, meaning there’s a distinct possibility Donald Trump could do a lot of damage until it’s time to elect new senators.

June 26, 2015 was an iconic day for a large portion of America, as it was the day same-sex marriage was legalized throughout the entire country. Now with it being legalized for less than a year, Donald Trump is considering placing different judges on the Supreme Court who could amend the decision on same-sex marriage.

Trump was interviewed on Fox News by anchor Chris Wallace back in January. During the interview, Wallace asked Trump if he would appoint new Supreme Court justices to “overrule the decision on same-sex marriage?” and Trump responded with “I would strongly consider that, yes.”

In addition to potentially negating years of same-sex marriage activism, Trump also voiced his intention to defund Planned Parenthood during the Republican debate held on Feb. 13 in South Carolina earlier this year, on a federal level, purely because of the “abortion factor.”

In the same instance he also defended Planned Parenthood stating “Millions and millions of women, cervical cancer, breast cancer, are helped

by Planned Parenthood.” While it may seem unlikely he could do this, it’s actually quite possible. According to CNN, Ohio Gov. John Kasich recently signed a bill that prohibits the state to contract health organizations that perform abortions.

Defunding Planned Parenthood would prevent women from making decisions about their own bodies and possibly lead to a spike of illegal abortions, which would affect the health of

so many women, as they are often dangerous. Planned Parenthood offers so many other services aside from helping women with cervical cancer or breast cancer. Many Planned Parenthood health centers provide basic health care to adult women, men and teens, in addition to their sexual and reproductive health services.

Trump has said many scary things, such as building a wall on the border of Mexico (and then making Mexico pay for it), shutting down mosques, calling a portion of the press who portrays him negatively, “lying, thieving reporters,” spewing racist comments against Mexican-Americans and African-Americans, the list goes on and on with almost no end in sight.

Donald Trump could very easily be our next president. Ted Cruz may catch up, but Trump is doing extremely well. At this point, it’s naïve to think he’s harmless, and frankly, as each day passes, I grow a little more anxious.

He has absolutely no regard for women, the LGBTQ community, people of color or anyone else he feels are below him or don’t agree with him.

Trump’s viewpoints only appeal to wealthy white men. Another important thing to remember is being a good business man doesn’t equate to being a good president.

All I’m asking (pleading really), is that you, as a voter, genuinely look at every potential presidential candidate and look at who has your best interests in mind, and not one who could violate your rights in the years to come.

Free tuition to harm students’ work ethic

Naaman Hightower Staff Writer

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t’s said that there is no such thing as a free ride.

Bernie Sanders seems to believe different. Early in his presidential campaign, the Brooklyn born nominee announced his S. 1373 College for All act. Under this act, all public institutions of higher learning would be free for the public.

Striving to bypass the cost of learning in the United States, this act would enable the ability to hire more professors, give students more career opportunities and further our youth as a whole.

It sounds good, but is it realistic? Erasing college tuition at every public institution for undergraduate education is a little bit of a

stretch, Mr. Sanders.

Yet, he poses a good point.

“Why do we accept a situation where hundreds of thousands of qualified people are unable to go to college because their families don’t have enough money?” he asks.

What Sanders proposes is his idea of helping the less fortunate.

While I agree with his sentiments toward wanting to give more opportunity, I disapprove.

The only way anything in life is cherished is if it’s fought for.

Some know the saying, “Without struggle, there is no success.” A free education sounds great, but will it help more students graduate on time?

At Sonoma State, we have a 93 percent acceptance rate, but a 53 percent graduation rate. If people are not taking advantage of the opportunity to educate themselves while having to pay tuition or take out student loans, will making tuition-free schooling assist that?

Sanders is trying to open the dialogue on the lack of opportunity given to lower-income populations.

The wealthiest people in the entire world are able to have access to higher education of some sort. Take a peek at the Forbes List, if you don’t believe me. You have Warren

Buffet attending Columbia, Bill Gates accepted to Harvard, along with Jeff Bezos going to Princeton and the list echos.

The connection between wealth and education is relevant, and Sanders’ proposed legislation brings it to the forefront.

Meanwhile, rival Hillary Clinton feels differently. She has publicly spoken out against giving free college tuition to “Donald Trump’s kids,” i.e. wealthy children who don’t necessarily have the same financial struggles as everyone else.

Clinton recounts her own story of taking out student loans while working her way through school at Yale.

She proposes a debt free tuition at the community college level. This opens the door for education, but ensures that struggle (in the form of student loans or working) will be needed to get anywhere after the community college.

The underlying point for this generation of young adults is hard work. In a world where iPhones and luxury cars are bought for 16-year-old seniors in high school, struggle has been absent in lives of our future leaders in America.

Furthering yourself in life has to be earned.

Increasing rent, evictions changing the face of Sonoma County

Christine Edwards Staff Writer

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icturesque Sonoma County - how lucky we are to live in such a safe and serene environment. Some of us are here for the few short years we are studying at Sonoma State University.

Others will decide to settle here for the time being, possibly long-term, maybe by landing a job in the everpresent wine industry. We have some of the best weather, access to any type of outdoor activity one can imagine: You name it, Sonoma County has it. People

are generally nice and trustworthy, rare if you have lived in a big city like San Francisco.

Conveniently located, Sonoma County is north of San Francisco and a reasonable commute distance to the city.

It’s no surprise for this reason, young professionals looking to settle down and start a family in a safe community, flock to cities like Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg and Sebastopol.

If you do decide to call this place home for the foreseeable future, bear this in mind: Rent in Sonoma County has gone up to 40 percent since 2012, and is projected to continue to rise in the years to come.

Landlords and current homeowners, but more importantly, property management companies and investors, are seeing this opportunity to pull in the big bucks. They are swooping up as much available housing as they can and even resorting to kicking out current low- to middle-class families in below-market-rate rentals in order to rent to these professionals swarming the

area. Finding affordable housing within Sonoma County has become increasingly difficult, and it’s only going to get harder.

Just this February, eight families were kicked out of a small apartment complex in Petaluma after receiving eviction notices shortly after a new owner bought the property and raised their monthly rents by $700. This is one of the many examples of investors driving out current lower income families and making room for the wealthy professionals moving here.

The faces of the surrounding communities will soon change, as people who have lived here for decades will no longer be able to afford to do so. With this healthy real estate market, hundreds of apartment complexes amounting to thousands of units have been sold in the last couple of years, and only about 1 percent of apartment units in Sonoma County are vacant. This creates intense competition, and leaves little opportunity for evicted families to find a place nearby to relocate to.

In order to afford to live here, one must make quite a healthy salary, as the current average price for a two-bedroom apartment is over $1,700. This is bad news for students and others who are working with a single salary that’s less than six figures. Making it here is difficult, it’s incredibly expensive and very stressful as a new graduate or young professional.

Some cities within the county are currently considering addressing this legal battle between landlords and tenants due to demand from activists and local groups such as the North Bay Organizing Project, which is leading the “right to a roof” campaign. Currently, it’s legal in Sonoma County to evict tenants for no reason, a practice that has increased in recent years.

Politicians in Petaluma, Santa Rosa and Healdsburg are now being pushed to reconsider existing housing laws that will hopefully change in the near future, erring on the side of protecting tenants and not leaving them high-and-dry with nowhere to go.

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News

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

The STAR gets personal with the Associated Students president-elect Nicole Detmers Staff Writer

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mily Hinton was elected Sonoma State University’s Associated Students president earlier this month and during her campaign, she voiced her hopes for the upcoming school year. The STAR had a chance to learn more about Hinton’s goals for her upcoming term as president and below is a Q & A with the newly-elected student leader.

STAR: What do you want to accomplish while you’re in office?

Emily Hinton: There are so many things I would like to accomplish while I am in office. I want to [bring] so much change that will hopefully better Sonoma State University as a whole and each student’s individual college experience. A big priority of mine is to create a larger sense of community on campus. I want to see more human connection on this campus between students, faculty, and administration. I want students to feel valued and provided for at this university. I want to see that students are able to have a say in what their money is being spent on and that we are made aware.

STAR: What have you learned from Brandon Mercer that you’d like to apply or do differently?

Hinton: I have seen Brandon model great characteristics of leadership during his time of presidency. Being able to serve as a student representative on the fee advisory committee, a committee in which Brandon chairs, I was able to directly see how Brandon always advocates for the best interest of the students. Brandon has a strong voice but is also a great listener and I really admire that about him. I plan to apply Brandon’s level of passion and determination to the [Associated Students] president position in order provide what’s best for the students.

I think overall Brandon has been a great leader. Although Brandon and I share similar drive and passion for the students, I believe we are also different in many aspects and [next] year will be very different from the last.

I think one of the things I would like to do differently than Brandon, is to be more approachable to students. Brandon is very mature, organized and professional and the way he holds himself can be intimidating to an average student. Until you get to know him of course, then he is very easy to talk to.

However, I feel that level of professionalism Brandon holds himself to can create a barrier between students and AS. As Associated Students president I would like to continue to portray myself as just a fellow student. Of course I plan to hold myself to high expectations and be organized, mature and professional, however I would like students to feel they can easily approach me at any time. I want students to know that the sole reason I am in this position is to advocate for their best interest and the only way I can do that is if students feel comfortable coming to me to share their concerns, complaints and needs.

STAR: What do you want students to know about you?

Hinton: I want students to know that I am no different from them. I want them to know I am a low-income first generation college student and I have worked really hard to be where I am today.

I have never had anything just handed to me in life and I put 100 percent into everything I do and that will include this position as AS president. I am determined to take full advantage of this opportunity and make sure the student voice is always heard. I don’t want students to feel as if I am somehow “higher” than them or that I obtain some authoritative power now.

Because I am still an average student like everyone else, the only difference is I have the power to take our common complaints, concerns, and needs and voice them to achieve what’s in [students] best interest. I want students to be comfortable approaching me because I am here for them. Before I discovered Associated Students I had no idea what to do with these frustrations and desires the typical student faces at [Sonoma State] and I want students to know that I am a resource and I genuinely want to hear their thoughts. I don’t want students to feel there is a barrier between student government and the general student population. Student government is a resource specifically for the needs and rights of students and students should take advantage of that.

STAR: What is one initiative you plan on working on?

Hinton: There are many initiatives I plan on working on during my time as president. One of the first initiatives I plan to work on is the Bias Response Task Force. The HUB is coordinating with many other leaders on campus to raise awareness of biases

that occur on campus and the Bias Response resource the university offers. I think this is incredibly important for students to be aware of and educated in.

STAR: What was your reaction to being elected?

Hinton: I was in complete shock when the results of the election were announced. To be honest I really did not expect to win.

From the start of this election process I wanted to win more than anything, but in the back of my mind I already had the idea that most likely I wasn’t going to win.

But I decided anyway I would still give it my all and see what happens. And it happened. Students saw my passion and drive and elected me because they agreed with my values. I can’t explain how honored I am for that.

The campaign experience itself was such an amazing opportunity; being able to outreach and engage with so many of my fellow students in varies areas of the university. No other program or class has allowed me that opportunity.

I think the most exciting part of this for me is that, 23 percent of students voted in this student election.

That is something to be incredibly proud of. It is important for students to have a voice and choose whom they wish to represent them at this university and I am beyond ecstatic and honored to have been chosen.

STAR: What are some things about the school that you would like to see change?

Hinton: I would really like to see increased transparency and communication between administration and students. I believe students have the right to be more informed about what goes on behind closed doors at this university especially when our time, money, and future are in jeopardy.

I would also like to see enhanced diversity on our campus and a stronger sense of student community. I know many students crave more connection within our student union but no one really knows how to make it happen. One of my goals is to really try to break that barrier and get students more engaged with their community.

In general I would just like to see more value focused on the students at this university. For example I want to see more student art around campus and stop spending our money on art from outside artists. We should be appreciating the artists in our own community and allowing them the opportuni-

ty to display their artwork at their own school.

I would also like to see that our four-year graduation rate increases this year and students are able to receive the classes they need to graduate on time.

STAR: What was your position on the strike? Do you think faculty got what they deserved?

Hinton: My general position on the strike is that faculty deserves to be adequately provided for. Sixty percent of our professors are considered part-time lecturers and their salaries are so small that they are living just above the poverty line.

Our semester and annual student fees increase each year, yet not 1 percent of those fees go toward the professors that want so badly to give us a quality education. In fact, only 27 percent of our school’s budget goes toward instruction and I think that’s where so many other problems arise.

Our fees keep rising yet our money is not going toward aspects that directly affect our education.

You can’t possibly put students first when you put faculty last.

Faculty members are essential to our education. Some work several jobs to make a living, and thus cannot give us the one on one attention that brought most of us to SSU. Office hours are becoming shorter and non-existent, our

relationships with professors are few and far between, and our class sizes are getting larger by the year.

We deserve a quality education, and our faculty deserves livable salaries.

I am aware of the salary increases faculty will receive however I don’t believe I fully comprehend what it means or if it fully meets the needs of the faculty members. So I’m not quite sure if faculty got what they deserved but I don’t believe that’s a question for me to answer anyway. I believe only faculty can vouch for whether or not they received what they deserved.

STAR: As Associated Students President, do you feel equipped to make changes around the school?

Hinton: Yes I feel that I am absolutely the right student to make changes at this university. I have such a strong drive and motivation for what I believe is right and that includes making sure students are receiving what they deserve during their college experience. I am never afraid to voice my opinion, even if it is the most unpopular one.

I will always stand by my values and speak up for what is right. I have such a strong voice and heart that I believe will take us very far in making change at this school.

STAR // Sara Wildman Newly-Elected Associated Students President Emily Hinton will take over the position in the fall.

DANCE: Student routine goes against ballet traditions, Continued frpm Pg. 1

Courtesy // Hannah Ingwerson Hannah Ingwerson, pictured above, was selected to perform in the National College Dance Competition in Washington D.C.

that requires candidates to have had a minimum of eight years professional performance experience, Daley is now the chair of the Department of Theatre Arts and Dance as well as the Dance Program Director at Sonoma State.

“She’s incredible,” said Ingwerson. “She is so talented and multifaceted both as a dancer and a professor and if people knew more about her the department would definitely grow.”

From 1993-2001, Daley danced at the critically acclaimed Doug Elkins Dance Company in New York City performing all over the U.S. and Europe.

Daley is one of the founding members of SoCo

Dance, a multi-generational professional dance company based in Sonoma County which she has performed with for six years.

“The Dance Program was thrilled about Hannah’s selection to ACDA Nationals,” said Daley.

“The dance she created is so stunning and the performers dance it beautifully; they are embodied, honest and incredibly expressive and alive.”

With girls partnering with girls and vice versa along with dancers not wearing shoes in her performance, Ingwerson’s eight minute routine is a direct rebellion against ballet according to the double major.

Although primarily modern dance based she had a hard time specifi-

cally classifying her dance, spontaneously describing it simply as “Hannah.”

Originally hoping to get her masters at the University of Utah for modern dance, Ingwerson has had a change of heart.

Graduating at the end of the semester, she is considering traveling for a year after gaining her undergraduate degree.

While not totally counting out pursuing her masters, she hopes to gain connections in the dance community, especially in San Francisco, and look into ways of gaining more experience in the field of choreography.

Tickets are $25 for each gala concert and can be purchased through the Kennedy Center box office, online or in person.

News

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

Page 5

Susan Kashack, long-time campus administrator, set to retire Sarah Fishback Staff Writer

S STAR // Brandon Stachnik Sonoma State University is preparing to welcome new additions to the Student Center including a boba tea and ice cream shop. The shops are expected to be open by fall 2016.

Fall semester to bring ice cream, boba tea venues Vasilios Loufas Staff Writer

S

tudents will be screaming for ice cream and boba tea when a new shop offering both is set to open in Sonoma State University’s Student Center in the fall.

Next semester will also bring 24-hour ATM banking and vending machines students will have access to when school is in session. While the classrooms, Campus Recreation Center and the Kitchens at the Student Center may be closed, students will still have access to the area containing vending machines and three ATMs as long as semester classes are in session.

The idea for the unnamed boba and ice cream shop was continuously brought up during focus groups with students on what snacks and other food items they would like to see on campus.

Boba is a Taiwanese-based beverage that rapidly rose in popularity in the 1980s. Some things students may find on the menu are bubble milk tea with tapioca balls or even ice-blended versions with a slushy consistency.

The Student Center opened to students and the public in November 2013 offering dining es-

tablishments such as Lobo’s and the Kitchens.

“It’s important to remember the constraints of the space when discussing possible storefronts.

With the patio directly above and the concrete slab foundation below, adding plumbing or ventilation necessary for some of the ideas was cost prohibitive,” said Ryan Ernst, director of Sales & Marketing for Entrepreneurial Activities at Sonoma State “A number of ideas were discussed with either a service or product focus, but the ice cream/boba tea shop was favored by students and did not require extensive modifications to the existing facility.”

The boba and ice cream shop will take the spot next to Made by Seawolves, the store that sells products made by students. It will be in a central location between the Recreation Center and the Student Center, a hub for student life.

“It’s a good idea to have that because I know me and a lot of my friends love boba and we want somewhere to go after school or working out to go get a treat so it will be a good place to go” said student Brooke Mallory.

“The vending options will mirror what is currently available on campus with both food and beverage machines. More advanced machines with addi-

VOTING: Ends on Friday Continued from Pg. 1

“This settlement was necessary for both the quality of student education, from faculty who can afford to live in the area, and appropriate compensation for highly skilled workers in the important field of higher education,” said Targett.

Although voting has just started, faculty have expressed positivity. The CFA said they were glad they didn’t have to strike.

“None of the faculty wanted to strike, but voted in favor of doing so to obtain a fair settlement.

Now that’s finally on the table I do not see any reason to oppose it,” said Targett.

According the the CFA, If the tentative agreement doesn’t get approved during this week’s voting period, plans for the strike continue. The CFA will create a new plan to get the

board to try to fix the issue.

Another general consensus of the faculty is the time length of the CSU setting the agreement, claiming that the CSU took quite a while to take their concerns seriously and to recognize the importances of the salary increase .

“The facts were on our side, but CSU management did not treat our concerns with the respect they deserved until the last minute,” said Newman.

Targett recognizes that possibility for opposition to the agreement and believes those opposed are within their rights.

“Diversity of opinion typically strengthens arguments and improves ideas,” said Targett. “However, with a settlement that is fair to both faculty and the CSU, and critically of benefit to students in the recruiting and retention of good faculty, I predict the tentative agreement will be rapidly adopted.”

tional options may be possible in the future,” said Ernst.

Wolfbucks will also be accepted in these machines. This brings an on-campus food option for students late at night.

“We are currently considering additional service options including campus delivery and online ordering to provide additional convenience to our students,” said Ernst.

The student banking center will include three different branches of banking, Exchange Bank, Bank of America and Redwood Credit Union. Students have express they will be charged if they bank with a bank not affiliated with the ATM. According to Ernst, fees will depend on the bank.

The original plan was to host a physical bank branch within the Student Center. Student feedback reported that a bank would be unnecessary since most banking besides physical money is handled through mobile banking on apps.

“Our current plan is to have the vending room ready by the beginning of the fall semester,” said Ernst. “The ice cream shop may not be ready by the first day of school but our hope is to open it this fall. Much will depend on the construction timeline,” said Ernst.

NEWS

usan Kashack, the current associate vice president of marketing at Sonoma State University, has been working for the university since 1984. If one does the math, that means Kashack has been at this university for a total of 32 years. Kashack has announced she is preparing to retire early fall of this year.

Kashack’s career at Sonoma State goes back to when she was a student on the campus years ago.

When Kashack first began as a student at Sonoma State, she was a mother of two sons.

During her time at the university, she started fostering her passions for both public relations and the media because of one course: Communications 368, the Sonoma State STAR. “I was editor of the STAR back in 1992,” said Kashack.

“I had two young boys at the time. They spent many hours playing in the grass outside what was the STAR office at that time.”

After Kashack worked with the STAR for a couple of semesters, she began to reach out to other areas on campus.

Kashack has held a range of positions such as the affirmative action office assistant to the admissions secretary in the Nursing Department to the department secretary for the Philosophy Department and the Languages Department Director of Communications in University Affairs. She was also the director of news and information in University Affairs prior to her current position.

Because of all of these opportunities, Kashack has accomplished many things throughout her time at this university. One of her favorite accomplishments has been the growing presence of the university magazine “Insights”.

“Starting in 1994, we took the magazine to a new level and continued to improve it issue after issue,” said Kashack.

“It now goes to 67,000 of our alumni and friends and provides, I believe, a wonderful cross section of information about the campus.

Another one of Kashack’s accomplishments is that she

got to participate in the 40 th and 50 th anniversary celebrations of Sonoma State University. When looking back on these milestones, Kashack remembers a lot about those two events because of what they meant to her.

“At the 40 th we buried a time capsule over at the Alumni Grove. It will be opened in 2061, Sonoma State’s 100 th anniversary. I hope to be there,” said Kashack.

All of the these positions that Kashack accumulated over the years have taught her a lot about public relations, and the different administrations on campus. “[What I learned in the field was] how important it is to be a strong writer [since] you have to write effectively and persuasively,” said Kashack.

“Don’t sweat the small PR stuff and figuring out what the small stuff is.”

In addition to representing the university, Kashack works with President Ruben Armiñana and the rest of the University Affairs staff. Armiñana shared how Kashack and him met.

“She was the editor of the STAR in the fall of 1992 and she kept referring to me always as the ‘Cuban-born president,’” said Armiñana. “I called her on the phone and asked her if she identified others always as to where they were born.”

Armiñana recounted how she was surprised to receive a call directly from the president at the time and saw the call as an example of fair criticism.

“I liked her response and met her a few years later when she applied for a public affairs position in my office,” said Armiñana. “We have been close colleagues ever since.”

Both Kashack and Armiñana will be enjoying retirement in the following months.

Armiñana had some words of advice about retirement that he wanted to share with Kashack.

Armiñana stressed that with retirement comes more time to read and travel, and he urges Kashack to take advantage of retirement.

Traveling is one of the things that Kashack loves the most and something she plans on doing following her retirement.

IN BRIEF

Rohnert Park A 14-year-old driver ran a stop sign with his vehicle on Southwest Boulevard and Seed Farm Dive on Saturday at 1:40 a.m. A police officer was chasing the suspect as he drove westbound over 90 mph on Southwest toward Commerce Blvd. Just before reaching Commerce Boulevard the vehicle crashed, striking a road sign and a few bushes.

The driver fled on foot while two accomplices stayed in the vehicle to be detained. The young teenager turned himself in Saturday morning and has been booked in Sonoma County Juvenile Hall.

Santa Rosa Two residents at Rosenberg Building on Mendocino Avenue claimed two men held them at gunpoint. The robbers took money and anything else they found valuable. Someone called the police to report it Friday at 5:57 p.m. Santa Rosa police have no suspects so far.

STAR // Sara Wildman Susan Kashack, associate vice president of marketing at Sonoma State University, is expected to retire in the fall semester.

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Arts

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

CINENOMA: film fest graces Sonoma State Continued from Pg. 1

“Just to be screened feels really nice, and to see other filmmakers my age doing their thing is an honor in and of itself,” said Levin. “I totally would want to come back [to Cinenoma] every year, at least as an audience member.”

Cinenoma was opened up to all of of Sonoma County this year which brought in a more diverse group of films.

“There were some great, interesting films tonight and I love that they’ve opened it up to the larger Sonoma County student filmmaking community,” said Ed Beebout, SSUTV adviser.

“It definitely gave it a nice freshness and variety. I think it went really well.”

Anna Luna, General Manager of SSUTV and host of Cinenoma, shared the same sentiments.

“We had great submissions this year, a lot of talent to be seen,” said Luna. “I think everyone had a great time. There was definitely a bigger turnout this year, which is great to see people appreciating all of the hard work

put into it.”

This is Luna’s last year as SSUTV General Manager. She’ll be passing the torch on to Sam Houser, a sophomore in his second year at SSUTV. “I think Sam has the same vision and passion that I and the past GM’s had for SSUTV,” said Luna. “I think he’s willing to continue that work and keep it growing.”

Houser got involved in SSUTV his first year at Sonoma State with a background in video editing and graphic design in high school. Houser is in the process of coming up with ideas on how to make Cinenoma even better in the coming years.

“I’m thinking of moving it to Ives Hall, it’s more theater-style,” said Houser. “I’d like to make it more campus­ wide and get some more submissions.

Just make it bigger and better every year and keep progressing.”

The Sonoma County filmmaking community is growing larger all the time. Sonoma State can only look forward to Cinenoma featuring these hidden talents for years to come.

Courtesy // Auriel Arthur Auriel Arthur juggles her studies, job and art in her life as a student.

Artistic passion and compassion Audrey Altman Staff Writer

H

aving an artistic mind is something many Sonoma State University students have in common, although some students may be better at putting it down on paper than others.

As for Sonoma State University Hutchins major Auriel Arthur, art is something that is in her blood and has been apart of her life for many years.

Arthur paints mostly pieces of girls, and has been doing this since she was nine years old. Arthur loves that she gets to share her talent with the Sonoma State University community by selling her artwork in the Made by Seawolves store.

“I love the Made by Seawolves store because it is a rare place where people can easily share their talents to the school for profit,” Arthur said.

Arthur, like most art-

ists, has a process by which she develops her artistic ideas.

“Interpreting complicated emotions through design is how I get inspired to make my art,” Arthur said. “[It’s about] appreciating beauty and telling stories.”

Without the Made by Seawolves store, Arthur may have not gotten the chance to share her talent with her fellow Seawolves here at Sonoma State. “[Auriel’s artwork] has a nice flow,” said Rheannon Eisworth, a secondyear business major at Sonoma State. “I think she adds her natural and spiritual side into her artwork.

Auriel is an extremely sweet and kind-hearted person. She genuinely cares about others.”

Although Arthur is not a part of the art department at Sonoma State, she appreciates the talent of all the other artists on campus.

“The art I have seen

in the student art galleries is unbelievable and phenomenal,” said Arthur.

“I have a lot of fun working with everyone at Made By Seawolf,” said Mari Lopez, a close friend of Arthur’s and manager of the store that features student pieces. “[Auriel’s artwork] is so original and creative. She uses a lot of vibrant colors that are very attractive to the eye. She also has one of the chillest vibes here at SSU.” Arthur is also is a Community Service Advisor in Cabernet village.

“I love being a student leader for freshmen because I get to see them become wonderful independent individuals,” said Arthur.

While some student artists may remain behindthe-scenes at Sonoma State University, artists like Arthur let their artistic view of the world infiltrate not only their art, but also the community around them.

Bands whose lives were cut too short Nico Gray Staff Writer

Commentary

T

STAR // Brennan Chin Members of SSUTV and Primitivo pose on the red carpet at Cinenoma 2016.

he past few months the music world has lost a lot of spectacular performers, especially throughout the different genres of rock.

From David Bowie and Glenn Frey, to Scott Weiland and Lemmy Kilmister, each and every singer left an impact that cannot be replicated nor replaced.

With the most recent passing of Prince on April 21, it has left all music fans saddened and stunned with yet another loss of an all­-time great. Everybody’s familiar with the legendary bands like Led Zeppelin and Nirvana that disbanded after the deaths of John Bonham and Kurt Cobain, but there are countless other groups that had something different to offer in terms of music, but whose time was sadly cut short.

Blind Melon: This band first gained popularity during a time when those who were infatuated by music would find their inspiration by habitually watching MTV. Their biggest hit, “No Rain” and the music video of the chubby girl in the bee costume are what fans remember most. Although, ever since lead singer Shannon Hoon’s overdose in 1995, the bee costume is the last thing fans are left with.

“No Rain” is a relatable and curious introspective that is no longer played in the constant rotation it once was, but can still be heard on radio stations today. The artistry and creativity Hoon brought to Blind Melon has always been a spectacle.

The band possessed a very soothing feel, but was tossed in with the rest of the alternative bands given the time they hit the scene. The passing of Hoon prevented Blind Melon from having the impact bands like Pearl Jam and Soundgarden had.

The Germs: The Germs completely rattled the West Coast punk rock scene when they first formed in 1977. One of the most influential bands to come out of Los Angeles at that time, the band’s stage performance and antics were even more thrashing and intense than other bands at that time. Their concerts were filled with chaos as lead singer Darby Crash would frequently come out onstage incredibly high, oftentimes arguing with the audi-

ence, breaking bottles and rolling around in the glass.

In 1980 he and his then girlfriend formed a suicide pact. His girlfriend survived but Crash wasn’t so fortunate. Their only album, “(GI)” came out in 1979, just a year prior to Crash’s death. The Germs had all the prowess to take after Iggy Pop, the Ramones and the Sex Pistols; however, much like Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols, Darby Crash wanted to live and die young as a cultural icon of the punk rock world.

The death of Crash was also completely overshadowed. The band’s influence was felt by many L.A. bands that came after them, including Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1983 and Jane’s Addiction in 1985. The group has never been able to reclaim any permanent success since the death of Crash.

Everybody’s familiar with the legendary bands like Led Zeppelin and Nirvana that disbanded after the deaths of John Bonham and Kurt Cobain, but there are countless other groups whose time was sadly cut short.

Beastie Boys: The Beastie Boys have left their mark as one of the longest tenured and most influential hip-­hop groups of all time. The 30-plus year career for the trio from New York was filled with countless classic anthems. Songs like “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party),” “No Sleep Till Brooklyn” and “So What’Cha Want” each possessed musical influences that could be enjoyed by all people no matter what racial or cultural class you belonged in.

The group not only crossed boundaries with a mix of rock and hip-hop, but they crossed boundaries with their fashion and all around artistry. As three Jewish white­boys from New York City, no other group was taking the musical risks they were. They were able to evolve from an anomaly of musicians who loved being wild, to incredibly talented artists. After Adam “MCA” Yauch lost his three year battle with cancer in 2012, the group decided they would no longer perform as the Beastie Boys out of respect for Yauch.

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

Beyoncé turns a sour past into ‘Lemonade’

Entertainment

Page 7

Noe Felix Staff Writer fb.com/TheGameofThrones

Review

W

hen Beyoncé drops new music, the entire world stops. Back in 2013, Beyoncé shocked the world by dropping an album out of nowhere. Three years later, Queen B returns with another surprise album drop. Her 2013 self­- titled album was an album full of her sexual escapades. It was about her expressing herself as a sexual human being. “Lemonade” is the farthest thing from that. This album isn’t about a woman’s desires, rather a woman’s crawl back from the depths of heartbreak.

Rumors have been swirling around about Beyoncé’s husband’s, Jay­ -Z, infidelity for quite some time now.

“Lemonade” addresses those rumors with cunning ferocity. Yes, Jay­-Z was unfaithful and sent Beyoncé through a whirlwind of pain. What resulted in this betrayal is some of Beyoncé’s best and most emotional work ever. “Lemonade” is versatile in its sound, combining jazz, doo­-wops, hip­- hop and much more to help deliver a message.

For every woman that has ever been cheated on, hurt, toyed with or abused: this album is chopped up of anthems made for you. It’s a journey that takes the listeners through the multiple stages of heartache. It’s a story that starts out with finding out the deception and ends with acceptance.

On the opening “Pray You Catch Me,” Beyoncé sings over soft piano keys about her suspicions of her lover’s adultery. “I can taste the dishonesty, It’s all over your breath/ As you pass it off so cavalier/ But even that’s a test/ constantly aware of it all.” She wants to rest assure that he is unfaithful. On “Hold Up,” finds herself going crazy over the uncertainty of her lover’s emotions. “Going through your call list/ I don’t wanna lose my pride but I’ma f*ck me up a b*tch,” she sings.

As the story continues, we see her anger take over.

“You ain’t married to no average b*tch boy/ You can watch my fat a*s twist boy/ As I bounce to the next d*ck boy/ And keep your money cause I got my own,” she sings on “Don’t Hurt Yourself.”

On the country-esque “Daddy’s Lessons,” Beyoncé discusses her father teaching her to watch out for men that would hurt her, to learn to fight back against them. She sings, “My daddy warned me about men like you/ He said baby girl he’s playing you/ He’s playing you.”

Near the end of the album, Beyoncé begins accepting herself both physically and emotionally. She embraces her race, culture, emotions and situation in order to move forward.

Beyoncé treats the listener to one of her most inspirational and one of her best tracks she’s ever created. “Freedom” is an empowering track about embracing one’s self and African American rights. Beyoncé addresses the racism and social injustices currently going on in America.

The track has a gospel vibe to it, using organs, drums, and claps to touch the listener’s soul. “Singin’, freedom! Freedom! Where are you?/ Cause I need freedom too!/ I break chains all by myself,” she sings.

It’s only fitting that she would bring along Kendrick Lamar to elevate the scale of the song. K.­D ot raps, “Channel 9 news tell me I’m movin’ backwards/ Eight blocks left, death is around the corner/ Seven misleadin’ statements ‘bout my persona.”

The closing track, “Formation,” finds Beyoncé further embracing her African American heritage. She’s appreciative of her roots and the characteristics that come with it.

She sings, “I like my baby heir with baby hair and afros/ I like my negro nose with Jackson Five nostrils.”

“Lemonade” could possibly be Beyoncé’s best album.

It’s powerful and moving, and never overstays it’s welcome. For those looking for singles like “Single Ladies,” look elsewhere. However, for those looking for something much deeper and meaningful, look no further. The Queen is back.

facebook.com/Beyoncé Beyoncé’s newest album “Lemonade” has stirred up fans as a result of her revealing lyrics.

The sixth season premiere of “Game of Thrones” aired Sunday night on HBO.

‘Game of Thrones’ season six premiered and we still know nothing Sean Curzon Staff Writer

Review

“G

ame of Thrones” has returned and it has brought winter with it. The sixth season of the HBO series premiered Sunday night.

Like the last season, this season goes past what’s in the book and is said to feature plot lines from the unreleased sixth book, “The Winds of Winter.”

“Game of Thrones” is a fantasy series known for its use of political plot lines, loads and loads of characters, graphic nudity and the “anyone can die” nature of the narrative. The series takes place in the fantasy world of Westeros. There are three main plot lines: The civil war being fought throughout Westeros, the invasion of supernatural creatures called White Walkers from the North being fought off by a ragtag group called the Night’s Watch and the journey of the exiled Queen Daenerys fighting to get back to her father’s homeland of Westeros.

There are several thousand subplots in the show that do interconnect in some clever ways, but they always threaten to crush the series under their weight; and in the series six premiere it nearly does.

This was not an episode so much as it was a collection of introductory scenes. Look “Game of Thrones,” we understand you want to show the audience what their favorite characters are up to, but as a result, very

few scenes develop the plot. It’s mostly just showing the audience where the chess pieces are before they move throughout the season. Normally this is needed in the season premiere to help show what is in store, but when the entire episode is nothing but this, it gets dull.

The only three stories that get any actual development is the Theon and Sansa stuff which was the highlight of the episode. The Wall deals with the fall out of the fifth season finale. This was one of two plot lines that has more than one scene. The reveal at the end was neat.

Then there’s Dorne. Even back in the books, the Dorne plot line was controversial. Dorne is the southernmost part of Westeros, although it was teased, it wasn’t until the fourth book, “A Feast for Crows,” that the audience actually saw it. And it did it by introducing a bunch of new characters and sub-plots with very little connection to the rest of the series in an already-full saga.

When they adapted this plot line for the show in the last season, the producers decided the condense the story by cutting characters and combining others. They added Jamie Lannister to the mix to try to get the audience more invested. The result was a pointless incoherent mess of a sub-plot that still had very little to do with anything.

This episode still assures the audience, that yes, Dorne is pointless and awful, with two of the worst scenes in the entire series. They’re campy and clash horribly with everything else happening. Could the White Walkers build a boat and sail to Dorne and kill everyone in it so we never have to talk about them again please?

A couple great scenes can’t make up for a lack of focus.

Here’s hoping the rest of the season is better than this.

facebook.com/EntertainmentWeekly “Nina,” which released April 22, has been a topic of contraversy concerning its casting.

Controversial casting in ‘Nina’ Diana Arroyo Staff Writer

Commentary

M

any films have been dedicated to the lives of famous musicians, actors and icons, arguably making some of the best biography movies of our time.

One of those beloved artists, Eunice Kathleen Waymon, otherwise known as Nina Simone, is another whose musical life has been transformed into the biographical film, “Nina.”

The film released into limited theaters and through video on demand last Friday. The film has been subject to multiple controversies over the actress portraying Simone (Zoe Saldana) and has been received with mostly negative reviews.

Simone was a popular American singer, songwriter, pianist and civil rights activist during the 1960s. She had worked with a broad range of musical styles such as jazz, blues, classical and gospel, to name a few.

In the late 1980s, Simone was diagnosed with bipolar disorder which explained her short temper and frequent outbursts.

She was also an alcoholic which can be seen in the films’ trailer.

The main controversy regarding the film centers around the role was given to actress Zoe Saldana. Many comments have been made about her singing and accent in the film, but the real issue everyone seems

to have is the fact that she uses blackface in the film to portray the darker­ - skinned Simone.

Not only was her skin altered, but Saldana is also seen using a prosthetic nose to look like Nina.

According to many African­ American actors in hollywood, there could have been a better choice for this role. Zoe Saldana, being of Dominican and Puerto­Rican descent, is a much thinner and lighter skinned woman who in no way shows resemblance to Simone. People have been all over social media expressing these thoughts on who would have been a better Nina, throwing out names such as Lupita Nyong’o and Viola Davis, who look more like Nina and are actually of her race.

During her talk show, Wendy Williams had much to say over this controversy as she talked about how insulting it is for Saldana to be in black face.

“It is almost as insulting as having a white person in blackface,” said Williams.

On the other hand, Saldana has been commenting back, saying she keeps her head held up high and is a true fan of Simone and is honored to portray her. Simone’s family on the other hand has expressed anger towards the actress.

The fact that Saldana had to go through so much to change her own appearance in order to look like Simone is extremely offensive, especially in regards to her using blackface which used to be something white people used to do in plays to

mock black people. That was not taken with much amusement by the African- American community then, so why bring it into this era?

There are so many talented black actresses out there who would have fit the role so much better in appearance. Instead, casting chose to go the hard way in attempt to transform a latina into something she is not.

Before Saldana accepted the role, she should have researched a little more about Simone and should have noticed in fact she didn’t really resemble this iconic musician.

Hollywood is a tough place and when these sorts of situations happen they are not taken lightly by not only audiences, but the actors in the industry.

Saldana should have expected this sort of outcome as they applied her bigger nose and darker skin, but decided to keep going with it not realizing how insulting this unnecessary transformation is not only to the African American community, but to very capable actresses who wouldn’t have had to alter their skin tone to match Simones.

Many of the comments towards Saldana are not offending her abilities as an actress, as many who thought Saldana was great still claimed the casting was the main one to blame for this film’s poor reviewsand that is true. Besides that, the film has been criticized for failure in coherently explaining the story of Simone and gives no understanding of it.

Student Life Campus fashion watch: Page

April 26 - May 2, 2016

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sonomastatestar.com

edition lower crowns, fringe and f lash tattoos – Coachella fashion has turned into a phenomenon. The outfits seen at this annual music festival are not everyday outfits, but are picked out with a purpose.

Each year the style changes just slightly, allowing for new innovative ways to change the meaning of “Boho Chic.”

At this year’s Coachella in Indio, CA, much to many people’s surprise, the f lower crown has been replaced and the choker necklace has stepped in to take its place.

All different styles and types of chokers could be seen on women throughout the festival.

This 90s hit recently made a minor comeback in some of the mainstream areas of fashion, but its rise to power will probably been seen soon after its popularity at Coachella.

For the ladies, many styles stayed a top choice from last year. The f lowy tops were still a hit. This year however, they were off the shoulder.

The peasant top with the off the shoulder sleeves was among the most common top choice for women. They could be paired with jeans, maxi skirts or shorts.

Another popular style for women was the tied top. Tying the bottom of a shirt into a knot made a

new appearance at this year’s festival.

Bralettes also sprang into the mainstream fashion this year. At Coachella, they weren’t just bralettes they were tops.

Many women could be seen sporting just the bralette paired with their pants, shorts, or skirts.

Paired with the various styles of tops were all different kinds of cardigans.

Some long, some short, some see through, some lace, some knit as the options were endless.

Guys have it a little easier when it comes to finding the right top. Many men like to sport a bare chest at this event.

It gets pretty hot and being shirtless is a great way to avoid those terrible tan lines.

However, for those guys who don’t like to show off their body - Hawaiian shirts and plain or patterned tees were popular choices.

Lace and see-through apparel was also frequently chosen to be the fabric of choice. Crochet dresses with just undergarments or a bathing suit underneath.

A popular theme at this year’s event was skin.

Showing some skin wasn’t just popular for the women. Shorts and short shorts were very in for men as well. Who said showing a little leg was only for ladies?

Shoes are also very important when it comes to having just the right outfit.

The shoe of choice for the ladies this year seemed to be tall lace-up gladiator sandals.

It is highly recommended to leave sandals or f lip f lops at home when going to Coachella due to the high amount of walking, dancing, and jumping that takes place over the course of the three days.

Of course everyone knows that for women beauty is pain. But, for the men it doesn’t have to be. Popular shoe choices for men were Converse, Dr. Martens and TOMS. Beyond the essentials, half the battle of picking the right outfit is having the right accessories. For both men and women, an accessory can make or break an outfit.

One of the most important accessories for all genders are bags.

Many ladies chose to bring cross body purses for ease and style. There is no worrying about dropping it or it hurting your shoulder. For guys, the backpack is the common go-to.

Hats are also extremely popular, especially because attendees are in the sun all day long. This year, the wide-brimmed hat was the style of choice.

Big chunky statement necklaces were still in, as well as the upper armband. Body chains and the f lash tattoos were also still in style. It seems though that the Bindi was left in 2015.

As this year’s festival comes to a close, it’s time to start keeping an eye out for what to wear next year.

Will those who go show up in this year’s attire or will they have been able to keep up with the evershifting Coachella fashion?

STAR // Sara Wildman

STAR // Sara Wildman

STAR // Sara Wildman

Carly Saber Staff Writer

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Disability talk highlights need for inclusivity Rachel McCloskey Staff Writer

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orrect terminology is something that is always evolving.

Each year, people get enlightened more about the terms they may be using that could be offensive to other people.

Saying “a disabled person” is defining that person as disabled whereas saying “a person with a disability” allows for it to be known that that individual is still a person, they just happen to have a disability.

This was one of the many topics covered by Disabilities Services for Students at Inclusivity 101 that took last Thursday as a part of Disabilities Awareness Month.

Maggie Simms, the disability management advisor for DSS lead a presentation and conversation about how to be

more inclusive on this campus and in our everyday lives.

One of the topics Simms discussed was the difference between hidden and visible.

Hidden disabilities are ones that may not be visible, such as dyslexia, depression or bipolar disorder, whereas visible disabilities are ones that are more apparent, such as cerebral palsy.

Knowing the difference between these are especially important so people are not quick to judge.

Simms gave the example of seeing someone with a blue handicap marker hanging in there car.

If they do not have a wheelchair or other form of metal medical assistance, many people are quick to assume they are taking advantage of the system.

One of the most important topics discussed at this event was the idea of universal design.

Universal design is the concept that

all buildings should be designed with all people with disabilities in mind.

This means having ramps that enter the building if there are stairs, having elevators for buildings with multiple floors and technology screens for those that may have visual impairments.

Universal design at Sonoma State University was mentioned multiple times during the event.

One of the ways Sonoma State can improve in helping students with disabilities is in the classroom said Jack Nyugen the alternate media/assistive technology specialist for DSS. Nyugen works specifically with students to help make sure they have all classroom materials available to them.

“The majority of materials that student receive from their instructor is printed material, that is where many hidden disabilities come in,” said Nyugen. “Providing learning materials in multiple formats whether or not instruc-

tors are required to would be an improvement,” said Nyugen.

There are so many little things that can be done on a campus to make it feel like a more inclusive space Nyugen said.

Along with using inclusive language and making sure all buildings are universally designed, there are small steps that can be taken in the classroom as well.

“Captioning on movies or any videos shown in classes or during special events on campus and having information available in different formats are two things that can easily be done to increase inclusivity and equal access in and out of the classroom at Sonoma State,” said Simms.

With things like the 24-hour labs and more professors putting alternate forms of texts and reading on Moodle, Nyugen believes Sonoma State is taking steps in the right direction to make this campus a more inclusive place.

Student Life

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

Page 9

Earth day fair rewards student sustainability Nicole Bridges Staff Writer

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arth Day was celebrated with fun events, prizes and interesting facts on the Sonoma State University campus on April 21. The beginning of the day was raining and it looked like mother nature wasn’t going to be friendly, but turned out to be a beautiful day once the events began.

Students were encouraged to ride their bikes or walk to school on Earth Day to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from car transportation.

The first station was from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. which was an energizing tent. Students on Pearson lawn enjoyed tea, snacks and other refreshments to start off Earth Day with those who chose a sustainable choice of transportation.

The main events were held from 11 a.m. until 2 a.m. between the Darwin and Stevenson buildings. There were a number of student run booths including information on the benefits of a plant-based diet, compost facts and myths, an e-waste clothing drive along with other ways to get involved with sustainability off campus.

A free yoga class was offered from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. outside of the Recreational Center with music and fun prizes.

“I love how everyone is coming together to discover the different elements of sustainability and learning new ways students can become more sustainable in their everyday lives,” said senior and environmental studies major Liz Platte-Bermeo. Bermeo is also the director of sustainability for JUMP, a student group focused on volunteering in the community. JUMP was also involved in organizing Sonoma State’s Earth Day events.

JUMP had paper passports that students could pick up at the first booth and make their way down the rows of stations to check out all they had to offer in celebration of Earth Day. Once they had four stations checked off their passport, they could come back to the first booth to spin a wheel for prizes. Gifts included snacks, treats and a shirt made of organic material, designed by a Sonoma State student.

The booth leaders were instructed to be sure students were as involved as possible when coming to stations so that they can get the most out of the information provided. Once the station leader felt the student had a good understanding of their booth’s goal, they would check off the student’s passport putting them one step closer to prizes.

“We are here to celebrate the planet we all live on and educate students on ways they can be empowered,” said Savannah Guinn, a senior, environmental studies major. “We’re showing students how to take climate change into their own hands with booths including alternatives to toxic cleaning supplies, compost stations and top 10 tips to reduce carbon footprint.”

STAR // Shane Bickford Last Thursday, Sonoma State University hosted an Earth Day Fair which supported student sustainability with prizes and snacks.

Earth Day stations also included how to make your own sustainable household products. One booth showed students what toxic ingredients were in their everyday kitchen supplies and alternatives to those products that are more sustainable.

Another booth showed students ingredients and directions on how to make their own mascara, shampoo, conditioner, coffee body scrub bars and beeswax candles.

For example, the conditioner was just one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, one cup of distilled water and eight drops of essential oil combined in a container.

There was also a booth on how to make your own seed bomb. Students demonstrated with clay, dirt and seeds and then instructed to “dry and let it fly.” The center booth had free plant-based diet foods including bananas, apples, asparagus and bell peppers.

JUMP also hosted an environmental-focused volunteer opportunity on April 22 to celebrate Earth Day. To get more information on how to be more sustainable or for more volunteer opportunities email jump.sustainability@sonoma.edu.

Are photos actually worth remembering?

STAR // Megan Corcoran Nomachella showcased student musical talent last Friday night on the Sauvignon Green.

Nomachella showcases student talent Jessica Shipma Staff Writer

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ree food, free music and good times. What else could a college student ask for? Nomachella, a live one-night music festival, was held last Friday in the Sauvignon Green. Students were invited to share their musical talents by performing for their peers.

Around sundown after an hour-long barbecue, students spread out on blankets to watch their friends and fellow performers.

The artists performed under a tent lit up with lights, as it began to grow dark. The general vibe of the event made for a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

Each performer had 15 minutes to play either original or pre-recorded music. Students who performed in Seawolves Got Talent, a talent show put on

by Sonoma State, were urged to sign up and perform at Nomachella along with music majors and Sauvignon community members.

Nomachella was put on by the Sauvignon Community Services Advisors, or CSAs, and was held in place of Sauvapalooza this year.

Mary Schafer, a senior and current CSA, helped coordinate the festival.

Schafer has been planning the event for the past month and a half, although the bulk of the work has taken place in the last two weeks.

Schafer helped out with Sauvapalooza last year and wanted to continue to hold a similar version of the event this year.

“Music is definitely a type of event that brings people together. It’s enjoyable and it’s just fun. Nomachella brings a crowd because it’s around. People hear music and want to stay and hang out and have a good time,” said Schafer.

One artist, Marisa Wax, used the

opportunity at Nomachella to share her original music. Wax is a freshman early childhood studies major. She is selftaught and has been singing since the age of three. Wax considers her sound to be a mix between country and indie music.

“I started singing at the age of three and I picked up a guitar at the age of eight. I had to put it down for about four years because of some medical issues, but I picked it up again at the age of 12.

Thanks to YouTube, books and other sources, I taught myself how to play guitar,” said Wax. “The first night I taught myself three chords and wrote my first song and I haven’t stopped since.”

Wax will be releasing her first album in the Summer of 2017 titled “Brand New.” Wax writes all of her own music and will be producing her album.

Students of all ages and majors were invited to Nomachella to spend their Friday night listening to live music. Free hot dogs and hamburgers were provided before and during the show.

Some artists sang original songs while others chose to bring back childhood favorites like “Colors of the Wind” from the classic Disney film, “Pocahontas.”

The audience was filled with performers and students enjoying the music and making last minute Friday night plans.

“My roommate and I were headed home and we saw it on Facebook and thought it would be something fun to do tonight. We have some pretty talented Seawolves on campus,” said freshman Daisy Agers.

Nomachella is an annual music festival, so students who missed the event this year can look forward to Nomachella 2017. Make sure to attend next year and get some autographs, because the next big artist could go from playing at Nomachella to Coachella.

Ethan Helms Staff Writer

Commentary

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t’s a stark reality, but the times of photo albums and disposable film are gone. Instead people are filling up memory cards with hundreds of photos, and when those are full, they resort to their trusty iPhone.

From an economic standpoint, when something is produced in large quantities its value decreases, but does that hold true to photographs?

In the days of the disposable camera, a photograph held value that people actually appreciated. I can’t remember how many different times I accidentally took a picture of the ground, or my finger blocked the lens, and I was genuinely upset that I had wasted another photo in my limited camera roll. Today, kids are taking the same picture five different times on their iPhone, just in case one comes out blurry.

According to one study conducted by Pew Research Center, 79 percent of 18 to 29 yearolds use the internet to share photos they’ve taken. The same study showed that only 19 percent of internet users 65 years or older are using the internet to share their own photos.

The numbers show that older people aren’t contributing to the collection of digital images like some of the younger generations. This may be a result of today’s youth growing up in front of an iPad or an iPhone from such a young age.

The other issue with today’s photo sharing is the subjects of the photos often don’t change. A simple Google image search of ‘golden gate bridge’ will return thousands of results from different sources but many will look almost exactly the same.

The continuous exposure to images from all over the world seems to have left some people desensitized. Now, I am no longer fascinated by the Golden Gate Bridge or the Great Wall of China, simply because I’ve seen pictures of them for years.

Growing popularity of social media and photo-sharing sites such as Instagram, Facebook and Flickr have only contributed to the unnecessary collection of digital photos. Now, people are inclined to take photos for the sole reason on social media.

A major factor in the growing popularity of photo sharing, is the increasing use of photo sharing apps. According to Business Insider, 49 percent of photo shared daily in 2014, were shared using Snapchat. The interesting thing about Snapchat is the photo expires, leaving the recipient to view it for only so long. But what does that say about our culture?

It’s saying that our attention spans are short, and it speaks to our desire to share content.

Today we are happy to share larger quantities of photos quicker, and that’s a major factor in the collection of digital images.

It’s hard to believe that photographs still hold the same meaning when we take them so wastefully.

I do believe that pictures still hold meaning and the right photo can evoke incredible emotion, but I think these photos are harder to find. Instead you’ll find photos of concerts and events where crowds were snapping pictures instead of soaking in the experience.

The root of the problem is the consumer. We are simply amassing too many useless pictures, and that’s led to each photo holding less meaning. I don’t believe the solution is to stop photographing, but instead to find something with meaning to photograph. Go out and find something that sparks emotion, because that’s what we’ve lost.

Page 10

Sports

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

Senior day sweep

Sonoma State’s softball team sweeps CSU Dominguez Hills to clinch the No. 3 seed in the CCAA playoffs Allison Kelley Staff Writer

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ith their 4-game sweep of Cal State Dominguez Hills this past weekend, the Sonoma State softball not only clinches third place in the CCAA standings but also clinches the No. 3 seed in the CCAA playoff tournament this upcoming weekend.

With the four wins, the ladies end their regular season with a 32-20-1 overall record and a 24-15-1 record in the CCAA. “I think the team gave everything they had this weekend and worked really hard,” said freshman Alee Balanon. “Being third in conference was really important to us and we were determined to get there. We had to sweep, which took a lot of hard work.”

The sweep was the softball team’s first in over two years. Their last being against Cal State Stanislaus back in 2014.

Friday, the Seawolves took two from the Toros in 4-2 and 5-1 victories. But with seven seniors playing their final games on the Seawolf Softball Field, the team was looking to take home two more on their senior day on Saturday.

They began game one by scoring two runs in the first and two in the second, taking an early 4-0 lead.

Seniors Carlie Daniel and Jena Kaser both recorded RBI singles in the first while Balanon and Daniel did the same an inning later, giving the Seawolves an early 4-run lead.

The Toros would tack on a run in the seventh but senior pitcher Amanda Llerena struck out the final two batters, preserving the 4-1 victory.

Llerena contributed immensely on the defensive side, allowing only five hits and one run over seven innings of work. Llerena improved 20-9 to eclipse the

20-win mark for the third time in her four seasons as a Seawolf.

She was tagged with the win in her last game pitching on her home mound and finished the regular season with a 1.63 ERA. Balanon, went two for two, with two stolen bases and Daniel went two for three with two RBIs. Freshman pitcher Brielle Vidmar gave the Toro offense just as much trouble in game two, but the bats of the Seawolves also struggled against Dominguez Hills pitcher Alyssa Valinches.

During the first nine innings of the game, neither team could push a run across the plate. At last in the bottom of the 10th, senior Mayleen Mazon led the inning with a walk and was able to advance to third after a groundout by junior Alison Strycula. Then on a 3-2 pitch Balanon singled into center field, allowing Mazon to score from third, resulting in an intense 1-0 walk off win on Senior Day. Balanon also did work for the team in game two as she had four out of the eight hits for Sonoma State, going 4-5 with the gamewinning RBI. Vidmar allowed seven hits in her complete-game shutout win, striking out four and giving up one walk. She ends her first collegiate, regular season with a 9-5 record and 2.10 ERA.

“We needed to make their last moments on that field great,” said freshman pitcher Brielle Vidmar.

“Our pitchers most certainly did their job by either striking out batters or letting the defense do the work,” said sophomore Kristine Ricossa. “Our defense was solid all weekend. We came through to win with the help of our pitcher, Brielle, holding a shutout for us in eight innings.”

The Seawolves will partake in the CCAA Championship Tournament at Arnaiz Stadium in Stockton on Friday. They will face the No. 2 seed, Chico State, in the first round.

“We will take the energy from this past weekend and have strong positive practices to make sure we are both physically and mentally ready for this weekend,” said Balanon.

Equestrian team rides into regionals

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Bianca Sanborn Staff Writer

he Sonoma State University equestrian club continues to hold steady in the saddle, placing four riders at Regionals earlier this year.

Founded in 2008, the team has continued to progress, putting in hours of hard work and dedication each week. Focusing on either Hunt Seat or Western-style riding, every member must take at least one lesson a week, two if they’re jumping at events.

Four girls brought home ribbons for Sonoma State at regionals in February. Julia Caruana, and Nicole Elsineitti placed third in their respective classes, Caitlin Filby placed second in the advanced walk trot lope division, and Sarah Villaseñor brought home second place at Hunt Seat Zones.

Caitlin Filby placed second at regionals in the advanced walk trot lope division. She attributes her success in the competition to her those around her who have helped to train and encourage her to achieve more.

“Having such wonderful trainers inspires me to ride better,” said Filby, “I decided at the begin-

ning of fall semester to start taking English riding lessons in hope to show both English and western next year.”

However, out of all of the riders on the team, only one is still participating in post-season events.

Sarah Villaseñor placed second in the Walk Trot Canter division at Hunt Seat Zones in Stanford, qualifying her to compete at Nationals in Kentucky. Villaseñor will be competing against other riders in the same class from around the country and British Columbia.

“I feel so excited to compete in nationals, and I’m proud to represent Sonoma State,” she said, “our team has been around for less than 10 years, so representation on a national level is really great.

I’m nervous, but looking forward to it.”

Her impressive accomplishments date back to a history of preparation and training. In other words this isnt Villasenor’s first rodeo.

“I started riding when I was 10. I rode western first, which is a different discipline that what I’m competing in now.”

This also isn’t her first time competing at a national level. Villaseñor went to the Pennsylvania nationals her Sophomore year for walk trot, another success of the equestrian program. She hopes to

place in nationals this year.

“Going into competition, I’m going to focus on strengthening my position and my lower leg when riding, and continue to work out and eat healthy in general,” Villaseñor said.

“Thinking positively and imagining what I want to happen in competition really helps me translate that into the arena.”

Sonoma State’s equestrian team is open to any and all current Sonoma State students who are committed to horseback riding, and want to further develop knowledge of horsemanship and competition.

“Before joining the team, riding was a very individual thing that I did, and I never had friends my own age to ride with,” said Filby. “Like many other sports, we spend almost every weekend together during show season, which creates a comradery that I’ve never experienced involving horses before.”

Villaseñor, the only rider on the Sonoma State Equestrian Team still competing this postseason, will participate in the ISHA Nationals in May at Kentucky Horse Park.

Baseball team sinks to sub .500 in CCAA

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Andrea Serles Staff Writer

his weekend was anything but a homerun for the Sonoma State baseball team. After a lengthy 4-game series, the Seawolves dropped three to rival Chico State at Nettleton Stadium in Chico this past weekend.

In game one Friday, the Seawolves found themselves trailing 8-0 by the end of the third. But the offense decided to make the game more exciting, scoring a run in the sixth inning and five runs in the seventh. Unfortunately, it was not enough. The Wildcats fired back, scoring twice in the bottom half of the seventh. With a final score of 10-6 the Wildcats claimed the win for game one.

“We hit the ball hard but mostly right at guys,” said senior second baseman Brett Sesma. “When we did generate some offense and score some runs, they would answer right back with some runs of their own.”

Junior pitcher Haydon Turpin recorded the loss. Junior Daniel Caresio went 2-2 with three walks while sophomore Matthew Richards finished 2-5 with a double, home run and three runs scored.

Continuing the series with a doubleheader on Saturday, Sonoma State was hoping for a better turnout than before. After being tied at six for ten innings, the Seawolves managed to come out on top in the eleventh after sophomore Matthew Richards scored on a wild pitch. Sophomore pitcher Cody Bennett kept the Wildcats scoreless in the bottom of the inning and the Seawolves celebrated their 7-6 win. Senior pitcher Jackson Zarubin improved to 1-1 on the season and Caresio finished 2-4 at the plate with a triple.

As the doubleheader continued Saturday, the Seawolves fell

behind early and could not recover from the 3-run advantage that the Wildcats held from the third inning. The greatest offensive production came off the bat of senior Tyler Glenn, who was able to double home Richards in the sixth, scoring the Seawolves’ lone run. After seven innings, the Wildcats took game three by a score of 3-1.

Luna allowed three runs on eight hits, one walk and six strikeouts. But with a lack of run support he was tagged with the loss and fell to 3-3 on the year.

“There are definitely a number of things that we can improve on, but one thing that we can’t look past is the passion and fight of this team,” said junior Trevor Abrams. “There is something to be said about a team that doesn’t give up.”

Sonoma State entered game four on Sunday looking to split the series at two games apiece but Wildcat ace Dalton Erb shut the door on the Seawolf offense. Erb pitched a three-hit, completegame shutout, striking out 11.

The Seawolf pitching staff gave up six runs on 10 hits. Caresio walked away with two of the three Seawolf hits. Sonoma State fell 6-0 in the final game of the series.

“We played well this entire weekend but some unfortunate things didn’t go our way,” said Caresio. “We are excited to play them again in playoffs at a neutral field and see how we fair against them then.”

Caresio finished 6-11 at the dish, a 0.545 average on the weekend.

The team’s record falls to 16-24 on the season and 14-15 in the CCAA. After this weekend’s series the Seawolves have fallen two games out of the final playoff spot while the Wildcats maintain a 1-game lead for the top spot in the CCAA North Division.

Wed. 4/27 NBA Playoffs Round One: Rockets @ Warriors Game 5 7:30 p.m.

Thur. 4/28 NFL Draft Fri. 4/29 Women’s Track @ Warrior Invitational Softball CCAA Playoffs Vs Chico State Stockton Sat. 4/30 Women’s Track @ Warrior Invitational

Sat. 4/30 Water Polo WWPA Playoffs 1:45 p.m.

Baseball @ Stanislaus State (DH) Noon & 3 p.m.

Sun. 5/1 Water Polo WWPA Playoffs Baseball @ Stanislaus State (DH) Noon & 3 p.m.

Mon. 5/2 Men’s Golf NCAA West Regional Women’s Golf NCAA West Regional

Sports

April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

Page 11

Seawolves SPEAK! 2016 NFL Draft Hailee Zastrow Staff Writer

“I think if he falls in the draft, Laquon Treadwell would be a great addition to the Vikings offense.

Last year the Vikings’ defense was one of the best in the league, often picking up the slack for the offense. If Teddy Bridgewater gets another young receiver out there I think the entire offense, run game included, can improve.” - Taylor Orht, sophomore communications major

“There has not been a strong defensive secondary since Troy Polamalu’s retirement in 2014. We could benefit from drafting Karl Johnson out of West Virginia. Even though he was injured his senior year, he hits hard tackles well, is strong in the cover 2 defense. I’m excited to watch this kid out on the field this season!” - Siena Falvo, junior art history major

“I think the Chargers should trade the number three pick and move down so that they will get more picks in compensation. If they keep the third pick I think they would choose Laremy Tunsil. Tunsil is the top ranked offensive lineman in the draft so it would be very smart because offensive linemen tend to play for one team for long periods of time.”

- Mike Stadler, junior communications major

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ith the first pick in the 2016 NFL draft the Los Angeles Rams select…”

It’s finally here, football fans. Cross your fingers and hold your breath because the potential future of your favorite team is at stake.

This week the National Football League will host its 81st annual draft. Starting this Thursday, all 32 NFL franchises will get their opportunity to snag newly eligible talent. The action will take place in the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago Illinois.

Round one will be kicked off by the Los Angeles Rams followed by the Philadelphia Eagles who have the first and second pick respectively. After trading into the top two positions both teams are looking for a quarterback and it has become the common prediction that the Rams will select Jared Goff from Cal and the Eagles will end up with North Dakota State’s Carson Wentz.

Despite having the number one pick, the Los Angeles Rams are actually among the teams with the lowest amount of picks with five. The Atlanta Falcons also have five picks. The teams with the most picks are the San Francisco’s 49ers and the Cleveland Browns, both with 12 picks each.

On the first day of action, there will only be 31 picks in the first round because of the punishment that the New England Patriots obtained from their involvement with Deflategate. The Patriots will make their first selection in the second round, 60th overall.

This years draft is headlined by the two quarterbacks Goff and Wentz but there are many different highly touted prospects available. Joey Bosa, Deforest Buckner, Laremy Tunsil and Ronnie Stanley feature a tough interior line of prospects. Defensive playmakers Jalen Ramsey and Myles Jack expect to be taken in the top ten. Top runner from Ohio State Ezekiel Elliott and big time red zone threat Laquon Treadwell have teams begging for their services on the offensive side of the ball. Injury and character concerns are putting question marks on several skilled prospects such as Robert Ndemdiche, Noah Spence, Karl Joseph and Jaylon Smith from Notre Dame.

Don’t miss any of the action by tuning into ESPN or the NFL Network for all draft coverage. First round will air starting Thursday at 5 p.m. Second and third round coverage starts Friday at 4 p.m. and the draft will conclude with Rounds 4-7 at 9 a.m. on Saturday.

The STAR asked around campus to see which athletes the students of Noma Nation want their team to add in the first round of the draft.

“With the Eagles now holding the #2 overall pick it seems likely they’ll be aiming to secure a QB. I like Carson Wentz. I think he’d be a better fit for the Eagles and with his great arm strength and mobility. I don’t believe this was a trade the Eagles needed to make however. Sam Bradford as starter and a capable backup in Chase Daniel seemed like more than enough.” - Jeff Zane, junior communications major

“I think we should draft William Jackson III because he’s a cornerback and we are lacking in that position. I also think he would benefit our team because we need someone to make interceptions since we lost Charles Woodson.” - Indigo Davis, freshman early childhood study major

“The 49ers should draft defensive lineman DeForest Buckner from Oregon. He is the most disruptive interior defensive presence in the draft. He’s tall, long, and thick enough to stack and shed multiple blockers in one play. The 49ers need to rebuild their roster from the inside out and Buckner is the best start to do so.”

-Jerod Brown, senior, hutchins major

Champions are made when no one is watching sonomaseawolves.com Justin Shulker and Brandon Lee lead Sonoma State to a 3rd place finish in the CCAA Tourney

Commentary

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Kristen Spear Staff Writer

he vision of a champion is someone who is bent over, drenched in sweat, at the point of exhaustion, when no one else is watching,” wrote the University of North Carolina’s women’s soccer coach, Anson Dorrance.

As an outsider looking in, many think of our season as being the time we put in the extra hours, become obsessive over our technique, and find out just how much we are capable of. But any athlete knows, it’s the time where the score doesn’t count that determines the type of player you’ll become.

The off-season is a time to improve your weaknesses and make your strengths unflawed. It is physically, emotionally and mentally demanding where you can find moments of doubt in your abilities. Every detail becomes critical and the amount of energy exerted sculpts not only the player you envision yourself but builds a team who has worked in an unselfish manner in effort to grow a championship season.

It’s easy to run past the end marker when your coach is standing behind it with a stopwatch in her hand. It’s easy to complete one more rep when you feel your teammates eyes watching you. It’s easy for adrenaline to kick in when the crowd fills the sidelines. But when it is just you on an empty field, standing alone on a court and hearing the silence on the green, difficulty sinks in. To motivate yourself and maintain discipline is one of the hardest components to any offseason athlete. There are many obstacles and excuses as to why you can take a day off, but the time spent training is time you will never get back. So, for you to drive in full speed or ease off the gas is a decision made solely based on you.

“Why does your team work so hard? Your season isn’t until Fall. You guys train way too much.” Sometimes I would catch myself in response with laughter and a “I know right?” or your typical “Gotta do what you got to do.” But my real answer for any outsider questioning an athlete is this: We train an excessive amount to get out of our comfort zone, to prepare us for moments in season where they matter. We hold each other accountable to a high standard because we know the momentum we build in the offseason will carry with us when everyone is watching. When we get into a critical situation in a game, we want to have the knowledge of the best decision to make because it was practiced repetitively in training. We strive with a championship mentality knowing every extra sprint, cross or touch is one more than our opponent is doing. Everything is a step closer to wearing that ring on our hand.

At the end of a training session, game, or season we want to look back and know that deep down there was nothing else to give. There was no day I could of pushed a little harder, I could of listened a little better and I could of dug a little deeper. When it is all over, there is no doubt in anyone’s eyes of the effort and time that was sacrificed.

Men’s golf team swings into 3rd in CCAA tournament Sonoma State earns third place finish after upset of Chico State, the top-ranked team in nation Blake Robinson Staff Writer

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true underdog story took place at the Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa last week. The Sonoma State men’s golf team upsets the favorite of the tournament, the Chico Wildcats. The Seawolves ranked nationally at No. 24 defeated the No. 1 Wildcats in the best of five match play.

Led by senior Brandon Lee, the men of Sonoma State pulled out a 3-2 victory at 2016 CCAA Golf semifinals against the Wildcats.

With triumphs from Lee, senior Kenny Maroney and junior Justin Shluker, the Seawolves advance to the championship match against Cal State East Bay on Wednesday.

“One of us would have to take care of our match and trust that the guys in front and behind us would do the same,” said Shluker. “We did what we all expected we would do and we won.”

The road to this victory was not paved smoothly leading up to this championship match. Before even getting a run at the semifinals the Seawolves had to find there way to the CCAA Match Play semifinal game.

With some sharp shooting by Shluker, who landed a birdie at the 18th hole, the Seawolves pulled into a tie with Cal State Dominguez Hills for the fifth-place spot. Both teams finished the day with a 594, 18-over-par.

A grand dance of fate left the Seawolves blessed with some good news. Cal State San Marcos is ineligible to advance into the semifinals due to provisions concerning the CSUSM’s NCAA Division II Candidacy Year Two status. This ineligibility advanced both Sonoma State and Cal State Dominguez Hills

out of fifth place and into a tie for the fourth and last position available in the semi-final.

Going into the CCAA championship with a strong mind set, the Seawolves were not able to take home the gold, falling just short in a 3-2 loss to Cal State East Bay. This was the highest conference event finish since 2009.

The Seawolves earned runner up honors.

Even with Lee finding a score that matched his lowest of the season with a round of 69, the men of Sonoma State collectively couldn’t close out the victory. Lee beat Adam Stone’s score of 75. Freshman Spencer Clapp carded a 72 beating opponent Jonathan Murphy’s score of 76.

“Our preparation has led us to great accomplishments already,” said Clapp. “We just need to stick with our game plan and keep our same dedication to practice.”

In all seven tournaments that the Seawolves have entered this spring, they have managed to finish in the top three. Coming off this past tournament with strong momentum.

The gentlemen of Sonoma State have been selected to participate in the 2016 NCAA Division II Men’s Golf Championship. “We are going to try and bring home a National Championship for not only our program, but for the school and people who have helped us in each step along this journey,” said Shluker.

The Seawolves will be going into the tournament ranked No. 4 in the West. This tournament will be held at University Golf Club in Las Cruces, New Mexico May 2 through May 4. This will be the Seawolves 10th regional appearance in the last 11 years.

“Beating Chico tells each one of us that our hard work is paying off and if we continue our work, we are a team to look out for at nationals,” said Shluker.

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April 26 - May 2, 2016

sonomastatestar.com

Cinenoma rolls out the red carpet

STAR // Brennan Chin Top left: SSUTV’s Kate Dalman interviewed a guest prior to Cinenoma. Top right: Sean Tadlock took photos of guests on the red carpet. Bottom left: Taylor Berghoff and Elisabeth Gonzalez posed for a photo. Bottom right: Anna Luna gave Sean Tadlock a kiss. Read the full story on pg. 1.

Earth Day at Sonoma State University

STAR // Shane Bickford Left: Children played with an inflatable earth at the Earth Day event in the Darwin Quad on Friday. Right: Volunteers received Earth Day T-shirts prior to the event. Read the full story on pg. 9.

Softball team advances to CCAA Conference Tournament

STAR // Megan Corcoran Sarah Langley, #7 hit a pitch against Cal State Dominguez Hills.

STAR // Sara Wildman Top: Carlie Daniel, #19 hit the ball against CSU Dominguez Hills. Bottom: Amanda Llerena, #8 and Lindsey Calcany Blair, #20 celebrated a strike out. Read the full story on page pg. 10.