Volume 76 // Issue 9

In this issue: Opinion: Sanders in heated matchup with Clinton. Pg. 3

A&E: Student actors shine a modern light on ‘Hamlet’ in upcoming production. Pg. 6 Student Life: Clothesline Project brings awareness on sexual assault. Pg. 8 Sports: Softball team sweeps in San Francisco.

Pg. 10

SINCE 1979

VOLUME 76 // ISSUE 9

APRIL 12 - APRIL 18, 2016

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

Faculty strike canceled, classes to continue as normal Nicole Detmers Staff Writer

F

or months, Sonoma State University faculty, staff and students held their collective breath at the prospect of a strike scheduled to start on Wednesday and would include all 23 campuses in the California State University system.

But thanks to a last-minute agreement announced on Friday, the strike was called off and classes will be held as usual this week. The California Faculty Association and the CSU Chancellor’s Office have reached a tentative agreement for a faculty pay raise. Originally, faculty members were asking for a 5 percent increase. The new

agreement calls for a 10.5 percent raise over the next three years.

“I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve reached a tentative agreement with the [California Faculty Association],” said CSU Chancellor Timothy White. “This agreement is great for students in so many ways, first and foremost the fact that there will not be a strike and classes will return as normal during the academic term.”

The faculty strike would have taken place over a five-day period from April 13-15 and 18-19. Those participating would have been on strike all day, according to the CFA website. Classes would have been canceled, and emails left unread. The strike was rooted in a disagreement between faculty and CSU administrators over a pay increase. The fac-

ulty was offered a 2 percent raise.

“The staff spoke up for the 5 percent and got it,” said CFA President Jennifer Eagen.

“This might be the largest strike that didn’t actually happen.”

According to a fact-finding report published March 18, faculty salaries lagged behind market comparatives in salary. All CSU funds are accounted for and the university cannot spend money it doesn’t have, according to the same report.

According to a dissent signed on March 26 by Bradley Wells, associate vice chancellor of business and finance for the CSU, the University Panel disagreed with the factfinding report’s proposed 5 percent increase, reporting the cost of this kind of raise would require “more than three times the available

funds.”

They did agree that “a multi-year solution is necessary to address the legitimate concern over faculty salaries.”

However, in the most recent tentative agreement, there will be a faculty increase for all existing CSU faculty with 5 percent.

According to the CFA, the agreement calls for a 5 percent general salary increase on June 30. Then on July 1, the faculty will receive a 2 percent increase. And on July 1, 2017 faculty will receive another 3.5 percent general salary increase. The tentative agreement also calls for 2.65 percent step increases for ‘eligible faculty’ in 2017-2018.

“I commend the individuals on both See STRIKE on Pg. 5

Hinton elected Associated Students president Nate Galvan Staff Writer

W

ith 51.2 percent of student votes, Sophomore Emily Hinton is the new president of Associated Students at Sonoma State University in the 2016/17 school year.

Current Associated Students President Brandon Mercer announced the results of this year’s student government election on Wednesday. The election drew the votes of 23 percent of the student population, the highest voter turn out seen at Sonoma State in six years. Special interest senators as well as executive officer positions were voted by students between April 4-6 by voting booth or electronic ballot.

Beating out cur-

rent Executive Vice President of Associated Students Kate Chavez, Hinton voiced her excitement about winning.

“It feels unreal,” said Hinton. “I spent the last day of voting standing out in the sun passing out fliers for three to four hours and it feels like that last bit of hard work could have been what made it for me.”

Hinton also expressed gratitude toward her fellow students for helping her obtain the position she’s campaigned so heavily for.

The philosophy major is eager to begin work as head of Associated Students at the conclusion of this year.

“The president position is a 12 month position,” said Hinton when asked what she will be doing from now See ELECTION on Pg. 5

STAR // Megan Corcoran Sonoma State University’s baseball team split in a double header against the UC San Diego Tritons on Sunday, claiming the first place spot in the California Collegiate Athletic Association Northern Division.

Baseball team moves into first place spot in CCAA north See the full story on page 11 University to receive sustainability ranking Christine Edwards Staff Writer

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STAR // Brennan Chin Sophomore Emily Hinton was named as Associated Students president for the 2016-17 school year, beating her opponent, current Associated Students Vice President Kate Chavez.

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group of students at Sonoma State University are working to improve sustainability on campus and will be submitting an audit to STARS — the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System —in early May to gauge how the campus measures up to other universities across the world in terms of sustainability.

This program is a part the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, a nonprofit that aims to empower university’s faculty, staff and students to become agents of change by driving sustainability innovation on campus.

In addition to running the rating system program, the association

@sonomastatestar

also holds an annual conference and gives out awards to recognize sustainability leadership by institutions and individuals, aiming to make sustainable practices in higher education the norm. STARS will give Sonoma State, along with 758 other registered participating universities, a rating of either bronze, silver, gold or platinum, signifying the school’s level of sustainability.

This year will be the first time Sonoma State has submitted to STARS, and this milestone for the school is due to the hard work of a team of 11 student investigators led

by Claudia Sisomphou, Associated Students senator of sustainability.

“As students or faculty interested in advancing sustainability on our campus, we can always come up with different issues that we see but we don’t have an actual report or a baseline for what those issues

/sonomastatestar

are,” said Sisomphou. “Because sustainability reaches so many different aspects of this university, we feel it was really important to set a foundation for how we want to advance sustainability.”

Jeff Baldwin is a geography professor at Sonoma State, but also serves as the STARS group’s faculty adviser, and does so out of pure passion for the cause.

He hopes that this rating will inspire the new President Judy Sakaki to do more to bring sustainability to the forefront of Sonoma State’s objectives.

“This [report] is something that we can give to the new president and hopefully she can help us out,” Baldwin said. “President Armiñana did See SUSTAINABILITY on Pg. 5

Visit: sonomastatestar.com

Page 2

Editorial

April 12 - April 18, 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 Shannon Brown, Student Life Editor Thomas Call III, Spor ts Editor Aubrie Tolliver, Asst. Spor ts Editor Brennan Chin, Photo Editor Kaila Sanders, Asst. 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, Emilie Devitt Christine Edwards, Noe Felix, Sarah Fishback Nathanael Galvan, Nicholas Gray, Florencia Hasson Ethan Helms, 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

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:

“U.S. elementary schools face lead contamination crisis”

While the lead-contaminated water crisis is still ongoing in Flint, Michigan, many are overlooking danger posed to schools around the nation. Staff Writer Shane Welch sheds light on the hazard and offers why it’s a national problem that needs to be addressed.

Read the story on page 3 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

An overdue compromise

The CSU dragged its feet before agreement with faculty

A

faculty strike slated to begin on Wednesday at Sonoma State and the other campuses in the CSU system was put on hold as a result of a tentative contract agreement reached between the CSU system and the California Faculty Association.

The faculty seems to get everything they asked for and more, but this didn’t come without compromise.

The CFA was demanding an immediate 5 percent raise for all active professors while the CSU was only offering a 2 percent increase. As written in the agreement announced on Thursday, all active faculty could receive a 10.5 percent salary increase over the next three years if the settlement is ratified.

However, some compromises were made. Starting with faculty hired on or after July 1, 2017, the vesting period will be doubled. This means faculty will need to have worked for the CSU for 10 years instead of five to retire with full health benefits if they were hired on or after that date. Also, the wording of the statement isn’t retroactive, meaning the salary raise won’t apply to the pay the faculty receives before June 30.

This agreement was reached after a neutral fact-finding report was published. This report, executed by factfinder Bonnie Castrey, found the faculty was underpaid for several factors and suggested the CSU increase salaries.

This resolution came as a surprise to many, since only in March did the University Panel claim the raise faculty were asking for would require funding they didn’t have. The chancellor claimed in a conference call regarding the agreement on Friday

that the CSU did in fact have the budget for at least a 6 percent increase to implement immediately.

We’re glad the faculty got the raises they deserved. But if the CSU already had the money, why did the tensions go on so long before it agreed to 5 percent?

Perhaps it took the CFA to show its teeth long enough for the CSU to budge. Sonoma State CFA Chapter President Elaine Newman believes the CSU didn’t account for the strength of faculty and the amount of support they would end up receiving from the students.

Between the apparent wiggle room in the budget and the comparison of the administrators’ salaries, it’s clear this agreement is far overdue. Newman agrees this raise is a step in the right direction, although it’s not a perfect agreement.

The salary gap between the CSU administration and the CSU faculty has been growing for years.

Sonoma State President Ruben Armiñana’s salary has been raised every year, consistently since 2007, totalling an $33,000 increase in salary over the last nine years, according to a state worker’s salary database, while the faculty hasn’t seen an increase in pay in ten years.

Armiñana isn’t the only one who has seen a salary increase of this scale; CSU Chancellor Timothy White has seen a $52,000 salary increase in just the last three years, with his total salary currently at $416,000 a year.

That’s almost three and a half times the maximum salary for a professor at Sonoma State. Why are the administrators consistently getting raises while the faculty had to threaten to fight for 5 percent?

The settlement is good for the

current faculty, but will the administration find a way around it by gravitating more toward hiring part-time lecturers?

According to Sonoma State’s “Quick Facts,” 60.2 percent of the faculty are already temporary lecturers. The salaries for these lecturers range by the amount of classes they teach, but the salary can be anywhere from $13,000 to a maximum of approximately $57,000.

Sonoma State is already gravitating towards these part-time faculty, and the higher salaries in this tentative agreement could push administration even further into hiring more temporary professors.

This is harmful for two reasons. According to MIT’s “Living Wage Calculator,” the cost of living in Sonoma County for an average family of two adults and two children is roughly $53,400 a year. For part-time professors, the salary cap is just above that, and most of them are paid well below $50,000.

This would mean they either need another job or be dangerously close to the poverty line. The other issue with temporary staff is the lack of consistency for students. A part-time professor can’t consistently offer the same classes every semester the same way full-time faculty can.

Overall, the tentative agreement shows the CSU is starting to invest more in its faculty, which ultimately boosts the morale of the students and community. Well-paid faculty should equate to a better learning environment for the students. Also, avoiding the strike was the best action for the general atmosphere on campus.

This tentative agreement may have halted the strike, but the discussion isn’t over yet.

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 12- A pril 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

UC schools to accept more students

Diana Arroyo Staff Writer

T

here is no greater feeling than getting that acceptance letter from the college of your dreams. After a long time of waiting, being accepted into the place where you’ll further develop your education is a big step in anyone’s life. California has some of the best public colleges, state universities as well as Universities of California.

For the 10 Universities of California, it’s been confirmed there was a 15 percent boost in acceptance rates over the last year. The admissions to minorities grew significantly as well, Latinos representing 32 percent and African-Americans totaling 4.7 percent of all freshmen admitted.

UCs have had a reputation of being a bit more competitive than

state schools across California. This means higher GPA qualifications, a personal letter and overall more volunteer and leadership involvement.

These quarter-system schools are difficult to get into but with this rate it has become easier for some and that’s good news.

In past years the UCs had been hurting its own California students by admitting too many students from other states and countries.

With this, there was an 8.9 percent increase over the last year of admitted non-Californians. That’s unfair to the locals hoping to go to school nearby or just in-state.

The UC claims this isn’t true.

“We’ve intensified our efforts to boost enrollment of Californians at the Universities, and all indications are that these efforts are working,” UC President Janet Napolitano said in a statement Monday. “Our commitment to California and California students has never wavered, even through the worst financial downturn since the Great Depression. Now, with additional state funding, we are able to bring in even more California students.”

In a deal made with Gov. Jerry Brown and the Legislature for $25 million state dollars, UC agreed to admit 5,000 more California students for fall 2016.

This enrollment was capped in the three most popular schools, University of California Los Angeles, Berkeley and San Diego.

In addition to the 62.7 percent increased rate for California students who applied, 43 percent were the first in their families to attend college as well. That is an exciting and empowering action for many of the minorities in this state and country as well. Typically, students of different roots have a more difficult time applying and being accepted into these prestigious schools.

First-generation college students have increased in the past years. Being able to step out and go to college in general is something they are immensely proud of.

The families they come from, who haven’t had the same opportunities, as well as watching their children take big steps in their education is what they hoped for.

Overall, UCs expanded the number of freshmen offered admission to 98,922 from 87,759 last year.

This is great news for all students who are thinking of attending these schools whether right after high school or transferring.

They will now have a higher chance to get into these schools for a hope in having a better education and future.

Mississippi Freedom Bill promotes discrimination

Noe Felix Staff Writer

C

heers were heard nation wide as the Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex marriage last June. However, for every step America takes forward, there are some actions that cause us to go two steps backward.

This past month, Mississippi passed a highly controversial bill allowing both private and public businesses to deny services to gay and transgender people based on said organizations religious beliefs. These services could range from wedding planning to adoptions.

In addition, these organizations have the ability to decide whether to hire, fire or terminate an individual of the LGBTQA community if their inconsistent with the organization’s religious beliefs.

America prides itself on being the

“land of equal opportunity,” but when it allows legislation such as this one, it’s hard to believe. It boils my blood to see people discriminated like this. This form of bigotry shouldn’t be tolerated.

Imagine how it must feel to get fired from your current job or not be offered a position because of your sexual orientation? What has this country come to when it can sit idly by and not intervene when such injustices are taking place?

Sen. Jennifer Branning said, “It gives protection to those in the state who cannot in a good conscience provide services for a same-sex marriage.

I don’t think this bill is discriminatory.

It takes no rights away.” I cannot comprehend how she could say that with a straight face. The definition of discrimination is “the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things, especially on the grounds of race, age and sex.”

That is exactly what the bill is implementing towards the LGBTQA community by denying them of a multitude of services, that would be available to them if they were heterosexual. Some of these services are highly needed in this community.

According to CNN, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation addressed that this bill would take away “suicide hotlines” from the LGBTQA community. To further add to this travesty, they could also be forced into conversion therapy.

This bill has caused uproar not

only across the LGBTQA community and among civil rights activists, but in major companies as well. ABC news reported corporations such as Apple, Facebook, Google and Yahoo,to name a few, have publicly stated their strong stance against the bill.

Some of the companies have even discussed reducing investment in the state. USA Today stated that General Electric has called on Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant to repeal the law. I feel that Mississippi needs to see that not only are civil rights groups fighting against the bill, but these huge corporations as well.

Mississippi is giving people with radical religious beliefs the power to decide the fate of thousands of people in the state. Despite what religious beliefs one might have, people are born a certain way and there’s no changing that. The discrimination the LGBTQ community is currently facing is no different than the discrimination African Americans faced back in the 1950’s and 60’s and still continue to face, as well as the same discrimination that undocumented immigrants and Muslims face today.

Martin Luther King once said, “Injustice anywhere, is a threat to justice everywhere.” If we let a bill such as this pass, what’s to stop other like-minded states to pass bills in the same vein?

What if this is the beginning to many more injustices to would affect more than the just LGBTQA community?

Page 3

Sanders vs. Clinton: Is there a clear winner?

Sean Curzon Staff Writer

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o say this election year is interesting is an understatement. While the Republican candidates have debated to see who gets the nomination, on the Democrats side, the media has acted like they’ve already chosen Hillary Clinton. However, I don’t think Clinton is the clear-cut winner everyone thinks she is. The Vermont senator, Bernie Sanders, might have a good shot at the nomination.

As of April 9, Clinton has 1,749 delegates while Sanders has 1,061. While Clinton is still in the lead, this isn’t the victory everyone assumes it is, especially since there are 1,955 delegates still available.

New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Indiana, West Virginia, Kentucky, Oregon, California, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota and the Capital are still all up for grabs.

Clinton is campaigning on a platform of improving the Affordable Healthcare Act, limiting unaccountable money in politics, Common Core educational initiative and American influence in the Middle East. The Sanders campaign has been focusing on fighting the wealth gap, dealing with global warming, universal healthcare and decreasing student debt.

The kind of language the media has used when covering the democratic side of the election is very odd. The headlines seem to always focus on Clinton, even when she loses. No networks are covering Bernie’s rallies. It’s gotten so bad that a protest called Occupy CNN started on April 3. Over 1,000 protesters are voicing their anger over perceived bias against Sanders on CNN’s part. It should be noted that CNN owner, Time Warner, is Clinton’s seventh largest contributor.

Another thing is the debate in April. There’s a lot of back and forth about a debate in New York before the primary on the 19th. At first, it seemed like the Clinton campaign would refuse any debate offers.

On March 28, in an interview with CNN, Clinton campaign strategist Joel Benenson said, “The debates have been very good, but Senator Sanders doesn’t get to decide when we debate, particularly when he’s running a very negative campaign against us. Let’s see if he goes back to the kind of tone he said he was going to set early on. If he does that, then we’ll talk about debates, but we’re not going to talk about it.”

This was a poor strategy. This could create the image that Clinton couldn’t handle criticism and isn’t tough.

This might not play well with voters.

The Clinton campaign then backpedaled and they proposed a debate for April 4. The Sanders campaign rejected the debate date. According to a statement by Sanders spokesperson Michael Briggs, “The idea that they want a debate in New York on a night of the NCAA finals — with Syracuse in the tournament, no less — is ludicrous. We have proposed other dates, which they have rejected. We hope we can reach agreement in the near future.” Both Sanders and Clinton agreed to a debate on April 14. This might show that Clinton could be nervous with continued debates with Sanders.

The fact that Sanders is this far with little media exposure is amazing but he is not a clear winner and he could lose. On the other hand, Hillary could easily lose as well. There is no clear winner in the race right now.

This Democratic primary is going to be a photo finish.

U.S. elementary schools face lead contamination crisis

Shane Welch Staff Writer

T

he water crisis in Flint, Michigan sparked an immediate urge to examine how public health is risked when infrastructure is neglected. Although the water crisis in Flint stands as the most striking public health danger relating to drinking water contamination that has occurred recently, it is not alone. Many of our nation’s public schools face the same problem which needs to be acknowledged-high contamination of lead in the water supply.

According to the Environmental Protection Agencies assessment called “Lead in Drinking Water at Schools and Child

Care Facilities,” There are around 90 thousand public schools and 500 thousand child care facilities that are not regulated under the Safe Water Drinking Act. The Safe Water Drinking Act, among other things, discontinued the use of lead in water pipes after 1986 and routinely tests water for lead and other contamination.

In order for schools to fall under the jurisdiction of the EPA when it comes to the testing of water, they have to be considered a public water system. That requires a building to serve more than 25 individuals and use their own water source such as a well, many schools are hooked to utility sources. For the schools outside of EPA jurisdiction, testing is not mandatory as utilities test their water at the source.

But the problem doesn’t come from the utility company, most lead contamination comes from pipes and fittings that contain lead within the schools plumbing; extra concerning when one factors in the problem plumbing not only contains unsafe levels of lead, but is also old enough to be corroding.

Of the 90 thousand schools outside of the EPA’s testing jurisdiction, many schools have been shown to have high levels of lead.

In the New York Times article “Schools Nationwide Still Grapple With Lead in Water,” 30 schools in the Newark, New Jersey public school system that looks after 17 thousand students have had high levels of the contaminant. Newark is not alone either, with lead contamination popping up in Baltimore, Maryland and Sebring, Ohio among others like the Los Angeles Unified School District and Ithaca, New York.

Schools located in cities or counties with adequate funding would fare better than others, such as New York City which replaced lead pipes and regularly tests the water in their schools.

The problem is many of the school districts that have high levels of lead simply cannot afford to retrofit plumbing, and often will just turn off the tap after a water source has been found to have high levels of lead.

This is problematic as water sources can be erratic about corrosion, contamination can break loose from old pipes at any given moment water is flowing. Aside from the Safe Water Drinking Act in 1986 and the Lead and Copper Rule in 1991, there are not many regulatory things the EPA can do to address the problem of lead in schools

under current regulations.

Lead is highly damaging to the development of children, and according to the Center of Disease Control, there is no safe level of exposure.

Since lead is highly damaging to public health, the EPA should expand on regulations making testing mandatory in more schools, not just in schools that qualify as a public water system.

It won’t fix the problem in many schools of needing to retrofit old pipes, but it would be the easiest and most cost effective way to ensure that children and staff don’t get exposed to dangerous levels of lead.

gettyimages.com

Page 4

News

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

Distracted Driving Awareness Month sheds light on dangers behind the wheel Josie Clements Staff Writer

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onna Lyon is used to questions about distracted driving. As one of the owners of Lyon’s Driving School in Rohnert Park, she welcomes them. Her job is to help people keep their eyes on the road. The National Safety Council observes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month to draw attention to thousands who have died in car crashes involving cell phone use.

With technology and smartphones, people can text, call, map and do pretty much anything while driving. Cell phone use proves to be the number one source of distracted driving, causing many deaths all over the world.

“Some tips on safe driving are to keep radio down, eyes on road, try not to be distracted by friends in the backseat, and try to not eat or do makeup while driving,” said Lyon. “You need to take safe driving seriously in order to not be distracted.”

Research shows the brain remains distracted for 27 seconds after dialing, changing music or sending a text. It’s extremely common to see drivers looking at their phone while driving and many people are guilty of doing it.

Ten percent of all drivers 15 to 19

years old involved in fatal crashes were reported as distracted at the time of the crashes.

Distracted driving is considered an epidemic that occurs on roadways across the U.S. In 2014, approximately 3,129 people died in distracted driving crashes, according to distraction.gov.

On the National Safety Council’s website, students can take the Focused Driver Challenge and pledge to be cellfree while driving to avoid distractions.

Local driving schools in the Rohnert Park area include Miller Driving School, Lyon’s Driving Academy and John’s Driving School.

Most have classroom driver’s education every month, where students can gain tips for safe driving and avoiding distractions while at the wheel.

The Rohnert Park Police Department is active in the fight against distracted driving, informing the public and creating safety for everyone.

“Patrol officers are on a higher lookout for violators as well as extra dedicated patrol shifts,” said Traffic Sgt. Jerrod Marshall. “Officers dedicated to OTS overtime will be out on the streets during the month dedicated to finding and citing distracted drivers.”.

AARP sponsors driving courses open to the public. The course includes road and driver safety rules, as well as

California driving laws.

One must sign up for two sessions, and by taking this course you may qualify for possible deductions from your auto insurance company. Session fees are $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members.

In 2010, a Sonoma State freshman killed a 2-year-old girl while being dis-

STAR // Niquie Wilson Distracted driving remains a national issue and local driving schools and law enforcement encourage students and drivers to practice safe driving habits when on the road.

University teams up with junior college to combat sexual assault Ethan Helms Staff Writer

F

rom 1997 to 2013, women ages 18 to 24 experienced higher rates of rape or sexual assault than any other age bracket, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Today, sexual assault is an issue receiving media attention with cases at universities nationwide. To help fight sexual assault Sonoma State University and Santa Rosa Junior College have partnered up in participating in the “It’s On Us” initiative.

The “It’s On Us” campaign is a nationwide public awareness and educational campaign started by the White House. Across the nation, universities, organizations, corporations and celebrities have all joined the campaign, according to Jesse Andrews, a title IX investigation specialist at Sonoma State University.

“Both President Arminana here at Sonoma State and President Frank Chong of Santa Rosa Junior College have signed on and endorsed the institutions to support the campaign,” said Andrews.

The attention brought to the topic, thanks to both campuses, is intended to spreading awareness about the issue.

“When statistics show that one in five women and one in 16 men will be the victim of a sexual assault while in college, we have to continue to address the problem,” Andrews said. “It is going to take the efforts of everyone, from students, faculty, and staff to change the culture and raise awareness.”

At Sonoma State, there will be tabling and events throughout April to help promote Sexual Assault Awareness Month where students can learn more about “It’s On Us”, and take a pledge against sexual assault.

“There is also a social media component to the campaign using the hashtag #itsonussonoma,” said Andrews. “While the initiative is being rolled out from the institution, we want students to get behind it and find ways to get

involved and promote it individually or within their clubs and organizations.”

Students are already supporting the efforts from the schools to help bring more support to the cause.

“It’s certainly an important topic especially on college campuses today,” said Sonoma State freshman Chris Doody.“It’s something you can see in the media frequently and it needs to be addressed.”

Students aren’t the only ones concerned with the coverage of this issue. Title IX Coordinator Joyce Suzuki recently told the Santa Rosa Press Democrat that Sonoma State received 25 reports of sexual misconduct from August 2015 to February.

“It doesn’t mean it’s happening more. It’s being reported more, and that’s a good thing,” Suzuki told the Press Democrat.

tracted by texting on her phone while driving on Snyder Lane.

The child killed was walking with her mother through a crosswalk on the Snyder Lane when both were struck by the vehicle.

For more information on distracted driving and how to be safe, visit distraction.gov or nsc.org.

To help spread awareness and further the discussion of campus sexual assault, Sonoma State is slated to hold an event focusing on the campus and community response to sexual assault. The event is a panel discussion geared to address concerns and facilitate discussion among the audience.

The panel, called “If It Happens to You,” is scheduled to be held in the Student Center Sonoma Valley room on April 21 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

“Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and participate in a conversation about how the campus community can best respond to sexual violence,” said Andrews. “Panelists include representatives from Sonoma County rape crisis, trauma and healing nonprofit Verity, as well as from Sonoma State Police Services, Counseling and Psychological Services, and Title IX office.”

Rohnert Park An 11-year-old pet goat named Millie was reported to have entered the Starbucks on East Cotati Ave. on Sunday around 5 a.m. Millie’s owners, who live two doors down from the coffee shop, said the goat escaped by freeing herself from her leash. The goat caused nothing but laughs at the Starbucks and her owners said they plan to build a fence in order to prevent her from getting away again.

Sonoma County A 3.5 magnitude earthquake shook The Geysers early Friday morning, according to the United States Geological Survey. The earthquake was felt 27 miles north of Santa Rosa and 11 miles west of Cobb. No damages or injuries have been reported.

Wyoming Bernie Sanders was declared the winner of the Wyoming Democratic Caucus. Sanders has won eight out of the last nine states, which has placed him at only 250-pledged delegates away from reaching his adversary, Hillary Clinton. The next Democratic Primary will be held in New York, with 247-pledge delegates at stake, both, Sanders and Clinton say they will work hard to take them home.

Washington, D.C.

STAR // Connor Gibson Above: Last year, the “Clothesline Project” was erected in front of the Rec Center and featured T-shirts adorned with quotes from sexual assault survivors. Below: “Take Back the Night” is held during sexual assault awareness month. This year’s “Take Back the Night” is scheduled for April 27.

A surveillance camera recorded a man breaking into a Five Guys Restaurant last Friday between the hours of 3 and 5 a.m. The suspect was recording cooking two cheeseburgers. He then stole a water bottle and left the premises. Authorities are now searching for the individual.

News

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

Page 5

Veterans Affairs relocated, renamed Nicole Detmers Staff Writer

S calfac.org The California State University and the California Faculty Association reached a tentative agreement last week regarding recent salary disputes. The agreement averted the anticipated strike that would have occurred this week and next week.

STRIKE: Faculty to receive 10.5 percent increase over three years Continued from Pg. 1

sides and that there was a team effort, I heard the voices of faculty and our students,” said White, “We are able to do this without any cuts; the innovative and creative solution that the CFA crafted is moving the times around when the salary increases actually occurs.”

President of the Sonoma State Chapter of the CFA Elaine Newman, believes the organization of the faculty in preparation for the strike is what motivated the CSU to reach this agreement.

“Even though we didn’t have to strike, the fact that we were so organized and so prepared to strike meant we didn’t have to,” said Newman.

The CFA website explains that the CSU Net Operating budget is around $5 billion.

About $3 billion comes from the state, while around $2 billion comes from student tuition and fees. The CSU also manages a reserve of about $2 billion.

The CSU preliminary budget allocation for 2016-2017 lists the budget allocations include, but are not limited to,

health care, maintenance of facilities, retirement, grants, system wide initiatives, and employee compensation.

According to the Associated Press, the average salary for CSU faculty is a range anywhere between an average of $58,265 to $96,660 based on if they are full time, part time, assistant professors, and lecturers.

Faculty still have to vote on this initiative in order to receive the raise.

To read the STAR’s position on the agreement, read our editorial on page 2.

SUSTAINABILITY: Students, a driving force in inspiring change on campus Continued from Pg. 1

endorse this as one of the strategic goals of this campus, but resources are limited.”

Danielle Wegner, fellow student investigator for STARS, also hopes that the new president of the university will make sustainability a larger concern for this campus. “We would like to see [from the new president] a respect for the concept of sustainability and a desire to expand it to reach to classes, different clubs and organizations, to our buildings, and to have it really integrated into our campus,” said Wegner.

Sustainability is becoming more prominent in the university’s culture as the campus begins to move toward a lifestyle that embraces long-term ecological balance.

Directly within the Sonoma State mission statement, it’s written that the university wants to be a regional leader in sustainability.

By receiving this STARS rating, the students who work hard to promote sustainable practices on

campus will finally be able to gain an understanding of what their efforts have achieved. This will also enlighten the students and staff involved, allowing them to find areas that could use improvement as well.

The STARS group hopes that by receiving this initial rating, it will encourage administration to become more involved and give students who are passionate about sustainability an outlet to explore this issue more thoroughly. Students who become involved in this program can also receive internship credit for their work on campus and in the community.

“In the future, we are hoping to see it become a class or a more structured program, so immediately when a freshmen come to campus and want to get involved with sustainability, [they will know about the] STARS program they can get involved in,” Sisomphou said.

Students who want to learn more about becoming involved with sustainability efforts on campus can email Sisomphou at sisompho@sonoma.edu.

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onoma State University’s Veterans Services has supported roughly 300 student veterans and military dependents this semester alone, according to retired Veterans Affairs Director Peter Neville.

As of April 4, the office has been renamed to Veterans Services, and relocated to Salazar 1000 due to Neville’s recent retirement.

After 11 years of working at Sonoma State, Neville decided to retire. Originally, Neville worked as Executive Director of the Student Union and after holding a multitude of positions, he assumed responsibility for the Veterans Affairs Office in 2014 until his retirement, this year.

When Susan Gutierrez, current director of financial aid, took the position, she decided to move the office to share the financial aid office in Salazar Hall and change the name to Veterans Services.

Gutierrez said she chose the name Veterans Services because Veterans Affairs is too likely to be confused with the federal Department of Veterans Affairs.

“I think the name Veterans Services better describes the primary office function, which is to verify student enrollment for those receiving VA educational benefits and to process CalVet Tuition Fee waivers for our students who are dependents of veterans who had a service-related death or disability,” said Gutierrez. “The office also identifies the student-veterans eligible for priority registration each semester.”

According to the Sonoma

State Veterans Services website, the university offers a number of support services for military veterans and dependents by managing student enrollment for those receiving United States Department of Veterans Affairs benefits and they process CalVet tuition fee waivers.

“I am proud of the opportunity to be involved in the services Sonoma State provides to our student-veterans and dependents of veterans,” said Gutierrez, “I believe combining reception services of Financial Aid and Veterans Services will be convenient for our students and their parents.”

Gutierrez works in the Veterans Affairs office with Julia Ibanez and student assistant and veteran, Chris Graham.

Gutierrez has a personal connection to the value of supporting our student-veterans and their dependents.

“My father was a career military man who found his path out of poverty through the Air Force and Army. My husband was an Air Force sergeant when we first married, and we depended on his veterans education benefits when he finished his bachelor’s degree here at SSU,” said Gutierrez, “Without the opportunities provided by the US military and the programs for veterans, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Veterans Services holds office hours Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. year round in a private office next to the Financial Aid Drop-in Counseling Office to provide answers to questions and accept documentation from student-veterans.

More information can be found on their website at sonoma.edu/veterans or by calling the office at 664-2780.

ELECTION: Hinton wins by close margin with 51 percent of vote Continued from Pg. 1

until August, when she officially becomes president.

“The summer will give me an opportunity to work with administration as well as get an idea of the new president, Judy Sakaki’s goals and how they interact with Associated Students.”

Senior Ricky Albanese, vice president of finance-elect, and Junior Rachel McCloskey, executive vice president-elect, shared the exhilaration brought on by the fanfare which erupted when the announcement was made that they will be alongside Hinton in running the student government next year at Sonoma State University.

Albanese, the current treasurer of the rowing team, beat out Sophomore Francesca Galletti, win-

ning 57 percent of the vote. With arguably the loudest student reaction created by any winning candidate’s supporters during the whole event, Albanese explained how relieved he was knowing his place in AS next year is secure.

“The last couple of weeks have been arduous to say the least,” said Albanese. “I feel validated.

During my campaign I felt it would be my platform and ideals that would resonate with students, and my victory has proven those feelings to be true.”

Winning by one of the largest margins in the election, McCloskey received 62 percent of the vote over competing candidate, sophomore Ana Tongilava. With all new executive officers for the upcoming

school year, McCloskey understands the need for collaboration with her fellow electors. “ These next few weeks Emily, Ricky and I are going to be training and preparing for the amazing journey we are about to embark on,” said McCloskey.

Hollie Mudd, arts and humanities senator, Carlos Kimball, business and economics senator, and Valeria Quintana, social sciences senator were all elected in fairly close fashion over their opponents.

“Next year’s Senate has so much potential and excitement,” said Mercer. “I think next year will be the most successful Senate ever at SSU because they come in knowing who they are as students and exactly what they want to achieve for their peers.”

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Arts

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar . com

A classic tragedy with a modern twist Misha Herbert Staff Writer

T

he iconic William Shakespeare play, “Hamlet,” will soon be coming to Sonoma State University for a limited run of six performances from May 3 to May 8.

Presented by the Department of Theatre Arts and Dance, this modernized adaptation is already met with much anticipation. The opening show on Tuesday, May 3 quickly sold out.

Taking on the most produced play of all time certainly comes with its challenges. But to director Paul Draper, the ability to explore new themes and levels withn Shakespeare’s work has made this experience exciting. “ T h a t ’s the great thing about this pl ay,” s a i d Draper, “ Y o u can see it several

times in your life, and each time will be different, and each time it gets richer in your mind.”

Draper, a 30-year theater veteran, has been working on this production for over a year.

His cast of college students, most of whom are getting units for this endeavour, have rehearsed together for 10 weeks.

Matt Lindberg, who takes the mainstage as Hamlet, is a fourth year Liberal Studies Major with a minor in acting. For him, playing the main character is a welcomed challenge.

“Everybody knows the famous ‘To be or not to be’ monologue,” said Lindberg, “I’m ready to make this Hamlet my own. I’m excited to show it to people.”

For Régine Danaé, a freshman with a double major in biology and theatre arts, playing Ophelia in this production has been very rewarding.

“The cast for Hamlet is large, but even so we feel like a close knit family,” she said. “I’ve really enjoyed my time with them, and wouldn’t have it any other way.”

At around 400 years old, this play has been translated into over 100 languages and boasts even more adaptations.

But with its contemporary setting and modern dress, Draper’s production of “Hamlet” has been given a breath of fresh air.

“I really hope that students come into this show

with an open mind,” said Lindberg. “Just a year ago, I didn’t have an appreciation for Shakespeare.

I thought it was too confusing. When I saw Romeo and Juliet performed by a professional company, I was blown away. They made such great sense of the language that I found a new appreciation in this art.

I want students to walk away from this play with the same effect.”

The themes presented in this play are universal and relatable.

“We all face the pressures of becoming adults, forced to navigate and make sense of the world,” said Draper. “‘Hamlet’ offers a glimpse into the anarchic, thrilling and ultimately dangerous landscape of a promising young prince trapped in a kingdom of conspiracy and betrayal.”

Indeed, like rereading a favorite book, rewatching Hamlet allows you to discover new themes with each revisit.

This rendition promises an interesting exploration of the relationship between morality and corruption as well as Hamlet’s own internal struggle as he’s faced with an unimaginable decision.

“Hamlet” will be showing May 4-7 at 7:30 p.m. and May 8 at 2 p.m. in Person Theatre. Tickets are free for Sonoma State Students, $5 for non-Sonoma State students and seniors, $15 for faculty and staff, and $17 for general public.

Student dancers stand out at national conference

R

Sarah fishback Staff Writer

ecently, the Sonoma State University Theatre Arts and Dance department dancers participated in the American College Dance Association National Conference. This national conference was held over Spring Break this year in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The American College Dance Association National Conference is an annual event held at different universities all across the country.

One of the pieces Sonoma State students showcased, “For Example,” was recognized at the conference. Senior dance major and Hutchins track one major Hannah Ingwerson was the choreographer of this piece, along with “People Watching.”

“The piece evolved from feelings of frustration, I guess. I just needed to get out. It’s just about honesty,” said Ingwerson. “Honest emotions, honest movement, honest performing.”

Many of the dancers in the piece “For Example” felt the same way. James DeSoto, senior and theater arts major, talked about his feelings about this piece.

“The main theme that was explored was the idea of being uncomfortable and moving in a way that felt uncomfortable,” said DeSoto. “Personally, the piece evoked a deep emotional state that I consider to be a typically repressed feeling in our society. That state is one of struggle, suffering, and the frantic feeling of being overwhelmed. The ability to safely enter this mental space on stage was an incredibly rewarding experience.”

After learning about both of these perspectives, Ingwerson explained the meaning surrounding her second piece called “People Watching.” “‘People Watching’ is a project I have been working on all semester,” said Ingwerson. “Myself and my seven cast members [some Sonoma State students and some not] decided to explore the idea of what it means to be human. The piece features spoken work and dance, and a whole lot of honesty.”

The conference Ingwerson and her dancers will perform at this summer is at the ACDA National Conference in Washington D.C. The conference the week of June 7-12.

“Christine [Cali] and I are incredibly proud of Ingwerson, her dancers, and all of the students in our program who support, encourage, nurture and motivate each other” said dance instructor Kristen Daley. “This is the first time the Sonoma State dance program has been invited to Nationals and we are thrilled to be representing the West Region at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.” Between now and this summer Ingwerson and her dancers will continue to dance and practice these two pieces.

Sonoma State students can see these two dance pieces performed at Ingwerson’s senior project showcase. Her senior project showcase will be April 22-24 in Ives 119. The first two performances will be at 7:30 p.m. while the last performance will be at 2 p.m.

“More than feeling proud, I continuously feel very humbled.

It’s an experience I didn’t think was ever possible, just because the talent at ACDA is very high,” said Ingwerson. “But like I said, my dancers are honest people. This is not just for me, or my dancers but it’s for everyone involved in the department, because we wouldn’t be the artists we are now without their guidance.”

sonoma.edu The Sonoma State students’ piece, “For Example” was chosen to be showcased at the ACDA in June of this year.

Courtesy // Cori Benedict Criminology major Cori Benedict produces electronic music when she’s not studying.

Turning her everyday life into music Emma Devitt Staff Writer

W

hen the term “electronic dance music” is mentioned, most think of huge festivals with glow sticks and fans tripping on psychedelic drugs. But Cori Benedict is breaking the stigma surrounding electronic music.

Benedict goes by “Danky” online where she and her record label Lush Selects, post her music to Soundcloud. “Danky” is different from any electronic music heard in the mainstream today. She tries to stay away from the repetitive norm of EDM. “The thing about my music is it’s not typical party or rave music. It’s different and more intricate,” said Benedict. “That’s what I like when I listen to music, the technicality of it; it’s not boring and repeating.”

Benedict is currently a criminology major in her junior year at Sonoma State University. She’s always been interested in forensic science, growing up watching shows like “Criminal Minds” and especially “Dexter.” But her passion lies in music.

“Balancing school and music is hard,” said Benedict. “School has definitely affected my music, I think it’s made me more dedicated to it. When I have time for it, I’m going full force at it.”

Electronic music producing gives her an outlet from school and work, exercising the creativity she doesn’t get to use in classes. Benedict has been branching out more with her sound, incorporating her own guitar playing.

“I’ve been working a lot with putting electric guitar into my songs. It’s definitely opened up a lot of creativity with me,” said Benedict. “Before, I was just kinda stuck using the keyboard, maybe finding sounds on the internet. But now I can put my own touch on it.”

Benedict gathers her inspiration for Danky from the world around her. Everything from her childhood to everyday sounds can turn into a song in her head.

“I’ve literally grown up with music all around me,” Benedict recalled of her childhood. “I woke up every day to the sound of my mom and dad practicing.”

Benedict grew up playing piano and trumpet, and eventually taught herself guitar at 15 years old.

She began electronically producing with her brother around 14 years old.

“My brother and I are extremely close. He’s the only person in the world that knows my music taste,” says Benedict. “He can contribute to my music and I can contribute to his. Everything we play for each other, we like. It’s nice to connect with someone on a musical level.”

Benedict’s brother Andrew has enjoyed growing up with and watching her musical style change over time.

“She’s incorporated the classical training from piano and the jazz training from when she was

in jazz band throughout middle school and high school. So I’ve gotten to see that all being utilized in her current productions,” said Andrew. “I think it’s really awesome how she’s still using that music from her formal training to develop her own modern style and her own characteristics as a musician.”

“Anything can inspire a piece of music. I could go on a walk and hear a car drive by or leaves rustling on the ground and be inspired by that. I can even record it on my phone and somehow incorporate it,” said Benedict. “A person can inspire me, even if it’s not someone super special to me. It could be someone walking past me who smiles or says something funny. It’s weird how it can turn into a musical idea because it helps me tell a story.”

Benedict’s roommate Allie Foulk, an accounting and financial management major at Sonoma State, has lived with Benedict for the last three years. Foulk has seen Benedict’s passion for her music grow over time.

“She plays her music non-stop so I get to hear it all the time. It’s cool to see what she has that’s new,” said Foulk. “She’s always dancing around the house. It’s cool to see how passionate she is about it.”

Benedict tries to form a deeper meaning in her songs by telling stories inspired by the things and people around her.

“It could be a different story for every person who listens to it, but for me it’s the story of an adventure or of my day,” said Benedict. “I like it like that, so people can have different interpretations. It doesn’t have to be a set idea.”

Benedict recently released a three song EP titled “Her,” available on Soundcloud. This and her recent promotion on EDM.com she considers her greatest accomplishments to date. “[EDM.com] promoted one of my songs a few months ago and it has around 200,000 plays, which is huge for me. I usually get 1,000 plays, tops,” said Benedict. “It’s comforting to know there are other people out there listening to my music. It makes me think, ‘maybe I can actually do this.’”

Benedict’s future goals include playing live shows, exposing her music more and potentially creating a career out of it.

“It’s just a passion, it’s not a career. But I want it to be,” said Benedict. “It’s going to be hard work, but that’s the dream. I like not knowing [where I see myself in 10 years], I like going with the flow. I don’t want to set myself to a standard.”

As far as fame goes, Benedict would rather produce and play what she’s passionate about rather than have millions of fans.

“As long as I’m happy with my productions, with what I’m putting out there, I’m pretty content with my listeners. Even if it’s only 1,000 listeners, I’m happy with it.”

You can find Danky on Soundcloud or on Facebook at Facebook. The EP “Her” is available for a free download, but you can help support this student artist by making a donation.

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar . com

Entertainment

Page 7

It’s not your loss if you don’t see ‘The Boss’ Allison Kelley Staff Writer

facebook.com/

Movie Review

“Hardcore Henry” earned $5.1 million during its opening weekend.

‘Hardcore Henry’ experiments with a new perspective Rene De Amaral Staff Writer

Movie Review

“H

ardcore Henry” is a cinematic adventure.

The opening credits start to roll, and what plays is very violent and bloody and is comparable to the opening of a James Bond movie.

We then receive a snippet of what we can assume is Henry’s past. (Henry was played by many stuntmen and directors, including the film’s main director IIya Naishuller) wakes up to a woman telling him that he’s been in a horrible accident, that he has amnesia and that she is his wife. She also gives Henry cybernetic limbs and implants so he is able to move around and function.

Henry, or ‘You’ are then attacked by Akan (Danila Kozlovsky) a mysterious mad-man with telekinetic abilities, who also alludes he may have been the reason you were brought back to life and that the facility is his. Henry and Estelle flee the facility (which turns out to be in the sky) via escape pod and fall directly onto a highway in Moscow. Estelle is kidnapped by Akan’s men waiting below, and a strange man named Jimmy (Sharlto Copley) assists Henry in his fight against Akan, his men and the rescue of Estelle.

Kozlovsky plays an interesting villain, as he is thrown at you in the very beginning of the film.

What makes him stand out from the rest of his men are his telekinetic powers, and extreme murderous intent. But aside from a few scenes sprinkled in, you don’t see Akan much through the film as Henry has very little interaction with him, unless he’s threatening your life. Kozlovsky plays the crazy, all-powerful villain well, with his demented behavior and general disregard for his men and others.

Bennett is overall a very bland character, the stereotypical “damsel in distress,” and while she

does play a vital point in the films plot, her personality and demeanor are very boring.

The real gem of the movie is Sharlto Copley. Copley’s character, Jimmy, offers assistance to Henry throughout the movie.

Jimmy appears to us in many forms, such as Cokehead Jimmy, Awkward Jimmy, Bum Jimmy and many more. Copley adopts many different personalities as Jimmy and really shows his versatility as an actor, whether it be snorting coke off of strippers or repairing Henry’s cybernetics. Jimmy also provides Henry with vital information concerning Akan, as he is bent on getting his own revenge against Akan.

You feel as though you experience every jump, every punch, every injury and every interaction.

The first-person point of view (POV) is not new, but it’s definitely an uncommon type of filming.

First-person POV allows the audience to become immersed in the film because the audience plays Henry. You feel as though you experience every jump, every punch, every injury and every interaction with another person. It’s definitely an awesome experience.

From a gamer’s perspective, this movie is satisfying to watch.

The movie takes you to many different places all within Moscow and its surrounding areas and it feels as though the audience is traversing the terrain with Henry looking for its main objective. It also appears to play homage to many different video games.

Like Faith from “Mirror’s Edge,” Lara Croft from the “Tomb Raider” series and Nathan Drake from the “Uncharted” series, Henry parkours across Russia. He scales buildings, jumps on cars and motorcycles and uses various weapons he find or picks up from fallen enemies to defend himself.

“Hardcore Henry” feels like a very fast-paced video game campaign, similar to the “Call of Duty” series

or the “Doom” series, with Henry tackling each new mission to reach the end game objective and finally face Akan.

When Henry does finally face Akan, it’s on top of a large rooftop (very iconic to movies and video games). Before facing Akan, Henry must face other cyborgs (mindless ones) They attack Henry in a swarm, and he’s forced to fight them off, much like in the “Left 4 Dead” series. Once the cyborgs are defeated, Henry must face Akan. Akan then unleashes the full extent of his telekinetic abilities, which makes it seem like the final boss fight in any game where the player must fight the boss when they are at their most powerful.

While “Hardcore Henry” has a lot going for it, it does fail in certain areas. The story itself is very “meh,” with not too many surprises or major plot twists. Another aspect that is very strange is that Akan actually has telekinetic powers. Literally no one else in the entirety of the movie has them, just him. There’s no explanation or anything, Akan just shows up, throws some people around and we are expected to just accept it.

In addition, “Hardcore Henry” is only for a specific niche of movie-goers. It’s definitely for those who enjoy going to a movie theatre and having the entire movie theatre experience.

On a big screen, “Hardcore Henry” provides the audience with an immersive, action-packed escapade. There are rumors that “Hardcore Henry” may cause motion sickness, and my local theatre had signs warning people of this.

While not experiencing motion sickness myself, it’s understandable how someone else might, as the movie is in nearly constant motion and is very fast-paced.

“Hardcore Henry” is a fresh and new experience. First-person POV is an interesting take on movies, and will hopefully continued to be explored, as it allows the audience to be immersed into the movie. It’s not a very long movie, which allows you to power through the “meh” story and enjoy the bloody and violent combat and skillful parkour performed throughout.

D

isclaimer: If you are a huge Melissa McCarthy fan, sad news is coming your way. “The Boss,” which came out in theaters Friday, didn’t live up to its laugh-out-loud expectations.

McCarthy is typically known for her knee-slapping humor, but sadly, the awkward and dry one-liners could not be stopped. The 99-minute comedy, directed and written

by Ben Falcone is expected to take in around $23.5 million during its opening weekend.

As popular as McCarthy is, “The Boss” might be better off as a Redbox rental than an overpriced movie ticket.

Compared to her other raggedy and foul-mouthed roles, McCarthy’s character, Michelle Darnell, is an uptight, high-class millionaire who unexpectedly goes to jail for insider trading. After being released from five months in jail, Darnell comes to the realization she has lost everything she had worked hard for, especially her friends. Since she grew up in an orphanage her entire life, Darnell has no support from family when she ends up on the streets. Having nowhere else to go, Darnell desperately asks her previous assistant, Claire, to crash at her place until she gets back on her feet.

Claire, played by actress Kristen Bell, is a single mother who reluctantly agrees to let Darnell stay under one condition; she must help take care of the house and of Claire’s daughter, Rachel. Darnell gets the inspiration for a new money-making opportunity after she takes Rachel to her Dandelions meeting. Instead of selling cookies, Darnell plans to make and sell brown-

ies, to eventually take her and Claire to the top of the business world. Like all cliché endings, Claire ends up meeting a man and moving into a big spacious house in the suburbs.

Darnell learns the importance of making friendships and keeping the ones that mean the most close at heart.

McCarthy usually brings her all into her performances, and typically, the audience can expect nothing less than a good time comical relief.

Her other movies such as “The Heat,” “Spy,” and “Identity Thief” are known for their lively storylines that involve many characters with constant twists and turns. “The Boss” lacked an intense plot and was quite predictable throughout the entire film. Although the story was easy to follow, I would have appreciated a more mysterious storyline where anything could happen at any point.

Even though the overall plot of the movie was a bit awkward, I enjoyed the acting and portrayal of the characters. When she did have creative and witty lines, McCarthy delivered a hilarious performance that I found myself “LOL’ing” at. Bell’s acting was effortless and enjoyable to watch. Her character Claire represented part of the population that doesn’t have wealth and luxuries handed to them. I found that I could relate to her character and acting skills because of this. Even Ella Anderson, who played Rachel, delivered a favorable job, just at age 11. Despite the amateur scenes and dialog, altogether the acting was pleasant to watch. The cinematography skills were on point as the graphics, songs and designs tied the boss mentality together.

I was expecting a bit more comedy from “The Boss,” and was disappointed with the cliché ending. Although this wasn’t my favorite McCarthy film, she’s still a hilarious actress that will continue to make great comedies.

facebook.com/TheBossMovie “The Boss” took first place in the box office this weekend, earning $23.48 million worldwide.

Deftones’ ‘Gore,’ revealing and raw Nico Gray Staff Writer

Album Review

I

t’s been almost four years since rock and metal fans have heard any new, head-banging anthems from Deftones. Following their previous release, “Koi No Yokan” in 2012, the Sacramento rockers return with their eighth studio album, “Gore.” Since their debut album “Adrenaline” in 1995, very few bands have been as alluring and fierce as Deftones. All eight albums stand as their own unique anomaly; however, writing songs through devotion and strains of severance has tied together each member’s passion and artistry. Over the span of 21 years, it’s been hard to find too many bands that are willing to take the musical risk of bouncing back and forth between calming melodies and powerful, screeching riffs and vocals, each of which are capable of sending a shiver down your spine or completely melting your face.

With “Gore,” fans won’t hear the numbingly-heavy riffs of “Around the Fur,” nor will they hear the vigor or darkness of “White Pony” and “Deftones.” Instead, “Gore” holds an 11 track album of captivating and emotional storytelling while still challenging listeners with its poignant yet pleasant tones and songwriting. “Gore” hits listeners right away with a product of elation and turmoil coming from the album’s first single, “Prayers/Triangles.”

Lyrics like, “I will never walk this street again/ the only time I feel I’m not alone/ I pull my heart out, I wave it in the air,” display one’s courage to battle through addiction.

“Doomed User,” provides more of the rough, blistering vocals lead singer Chino Moreno is known for. Moreno’s vocals are what sets this album apart from previous works as his singing is smooth and precise for much of the album. His vocal range provides an intangible style that along with Abe Cunningham’s drumming and guitarist Stephen Carpenter’s immense chords and riffs, contrasts perfectly.

“Hearts/Wires” possesses a genuine beauty where each lyric flows with honesty. “Nothing can save me now / it’s what I believe / the slit in the sky when you left / is all I see.” Lis-

teners can appreciate the songwriting and sincerity of emotions behind a song presumably written about the death of original Deftones bassist, Chi Cheng.

However, all albums come with their imperfections. Songs such as “Xenon” and “Acid Hologram,” match the rest of the album in terms of energy and sound, but they come off as somewhat of a mashup of previous songs with new titles. “Geometric Headdress” provides a melodic, raw chorus; however, the rest of the tone doesn’t quite fit the songs melodies. It’s a song that begins by taking you on a ride then abruptly breaks down on the side of the road.

“Gore” holds an 11 track album of captivating and emotional storytelling while still challenging listeners with its poignant yet pleasant tones and songwriting.

“Gore” does finish strong with “(L) MIRL” and “Phantom Bride.” These two songs once again present the mysterious subtleties that give them life. “Phantom Bride,” which features Alice in Chains singer/guitarist, Jerry Cantrell, brings it all together with the soft yet raunchy sound that Deftones has incorporated in so many songs. It’s a song that isn’t holding anything back in terms of style, which is a reoccurring theme of the band’s development and evolved sound. The lyrics represent fighting with one’s mental anguish and trying to make it through personal hardships.

“You spend your life sat in your void / where you will stay away / you waste your life relaxed in your void/where you will stay always.”

Album after album, Deftones have constantly changed the realm that metal bands are typically trapped in. They’ve challenged themselves to write unique songs and expand on their ever changing art form without hesitation. This is one of those albums that sounds different every time it’s played. It changes with mood, it changes with feeling, and it changes with passion. Deftones proved their relevance and their ability to make impactful music. Maintaining success in the music industry isn’t always pretty, and “Gore” reminds listeners what exactly success looks like.

Page 8

Student Life

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

Sexual assault awareness month starts with a conversation and a trivia game Jessica Shipma Staff Writer

A

pril is Sexual Assault Awareness month and Sonoma State University is participating by hosting several events all month long.

The most recent event, “May I…” allowed students to learn about sexual assault in a light-hearted environment.

“May I…” took place at The HUB, the center for diversity and leadership events on campus.

“May I…” was organized by Martin Herrera-Pazmino, a sophomore and One Time Events and Campus Connections student assistant. Herrera-Pazmino has been planning the Jeopardy-inspired trivia game since March.

Herrera-Pazmino felt a trivia game would be the best way to get information about sexual assault out to students without being too intense.

“Sexual assault is a very heavy topic and sometimes a lot of heavy things become overwhelming and overbearing, so

we wanted to talk about sexual assault but have a light approach,” said HerreraPazmino.

Herrera-Pazmino put the game together with facts provided by Verity, a Rape Crisis and Trauma Center located in Santa Rosa.

The trivia questions ranged from “What percentage of rapes go unreported?” to “What constitutes as harassment?” Other topics such as incest and sexting were discussed as well.

A common misconception about incest that was brought to light is that not all incest is consensual.

“Often times our first reaction to hearing about incest is, ‘That’s so gross,’ ‘that’s disgusting,’ or ‘ew,’ but if there’s somebody who has experienced or been the victim of non-consensual incest, we are pushing those people away, further silencing them and it might prevent them from coming to us to seek support,” said Corina Buzo, program coordinator of The HUB. Most college students don’t realize

that only five percent of all campus rapes are reported and 82 percent of assaults are committed by someone who is close to the victim such as a classmate or coworker.

Seventy-five percent of all assaults are planned ahead of time. Twenty-five percent of sexual assaults, however, can potentially be avoided according to Herrera-Pazmino.

“College campuses have a culture of people getting drunk and hooking up,” said Kristen Bricker, Verity’s prevention manager. “Alcohol and drugs, being intoxicated, has a lot to do with sexual assault because you can’t consent while under the influence.”

By participating in Sexual Assault Awareness month, Sonoma State is hoping to educate the campus community on what classifies as sexual assault.

Often times people don’t realize they’re been a victim of sexual assault.

According to Bricker. “Sexual assault refers to any sexual act by force or coercion,” she said.

“People don’t know it’s happening.

People commit things and don’t understand that it’s sexual assault and then it happens and they’re like, ‘Oh,’” said Herrera-Pazmino.

Aside from statistics about sexual assault, “May I…” also showcased the importance of understanding what acts can cause an individual to register as a sex offender.

Urinating in public and consensual sexual encounters in a car may seem like minor offenses, but an individual convicted of these crimes will have to register as a sex offender for the rest of their life.

For students and community members affected by sexual assault, Verity offers completely confidential support groups free of cost, as well as counseling on a sliding scale where individuals are able to pay what they can afford.

Verity also offers a 24-hour crisis hotline at (707) 545-7273.

For more information on Sexual Assault Awareness month activities being held on campus visit seawolfliving.com.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month Calendar April 12 Treats and Trending Topics 2 p.m.

The HUB

April 18 It's a Guy Thing: Porn and Sex 6:30 p.m.

The HUB

April 21 Panel Discussion with SSU and Verity 5 p.m.

Sonoma Valley Room

April 13 The Vagina Monologues 101 5:30 p.m.

Ballroom B

April 20 Chips, Dip, Whips, and Chains 1 p.m.

The HUB

April 27 Take Back The Night 7 p.m.

Student Center Ballroom

Students go bonkers for boba Audrey Altman Staff Writer

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Restaurant Review

ust about a mile from campus on Southwest Blvd, a new tea, smoothie, boba and snack shop opened up called Quickly.

It’s more than just any average tea shop. It has every kind of smoothie, shake and tea flavor a student could ask for, and for a great price as well.

When one enters the door, there are four TV screens on the wall. Two with music videos of recent pop songs and two with photos the menu.

All the chairs and tables are orange and white, making the store look bright and welcoming. There are balloons hanging up by the register, and a constant line throughout the day.

On the wall to the left you’ll see all the different options of tea flavors, smoothies, shakes and snacks offered.

There’s also the option to get addins with a drink such as boba, aloe vera or jellies.

For food options, Quickly has popcorn chicken, fries, fried shrimp, tater tots and waffles.

Most items on the menu range from $2 to $5, making a great deal for students who may be on a tighter budget to get a nice sweet treat or a good tasting tea.

“Quickly opened on March 26, and we would love to get students to come in,” said Austin Le, a Quickly employee. “Something students may not know is that if you show your student ID at

the register, you can check out a board game.”

Behind the register there are piles of board games that can be checked out by any Sonoma State University student.

All students have to do is give them their ID to keep while they play the game.

While looking at the menu, it can seem a little confusing or intimidating, since there are so many options. It can be hard to decide what to get, but the workers are very willing to help you decide.

I ordered the taro iced tea with boba, and personally loved it. Their was a little too much boba, that I thought overtook the drink, but it was a perfect mix of sweet and tart that went perfectly with the Boba.

Boba, aloe vera and tea can be an acquired taste that not everybody likes, but Quickly gives so many options that even if you dislike your drink, there are hundreds more you could try.

Along with their teas, they have M&M, Oreo, Reese’s and Snickers shakes to appeal to all different kinds of taste buds and chocolate addicts.

This place is great for Sonoma State students because it’s accessible to walk or drive to, and the store is a great place to hang out in.

There are so many options to appeal to all different people, and also the opportunity to try a lot of new things.

Quickly has stores all over the world, and is known for it’s Taiwanese bubble tea and Asian dessert and snacks.

They are open weekdays from 11:30 a.m to 10:30 p.m and weekends from 12:00 p.m to 10:30 p.m.

STAR // Audrey Altman A new boba tea place has opened in Rohnert Park. Although their menu may seem extensive, customers are able to customize their perfect drink.

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

Student Life

Page 9

STAR // Brennan Chin Last Friday in the Darwin Quad, Relay for Life brought members of the Sonoma State University together to raise awareness for different types of cancer. Members of “Love Your Melon” and the Nursing club set up booths to support the fight against different types of cancer and raise money.

Relay For Life raises money for cancer Carly Saber Staff Writer

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tudents, faculty and members of the community came together for a 12-hour event in the Darwin Quad this weekend.

Relay For Life is a worldwide event where teams walk for the fight against cancer. It began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked for 24 hours around a track in Washington. The following year, 340 supporters joined him. Since then the event has spread and raised over $5 billion for the American Cancer Society.

Seven years ago, students in the Colleges Against Cancer club brought Relay For Life to Sonoma State University. This year the event was lead by senior Cheyenne Stevens and junior Katie Pampuch. Also assisting with the event was Ashlyn Tamayo, a graduate from Sacramento State University who works with the American Cancer Society. Pampuch said they started planning back in August. She said they had to reserve the quad well in advance and work around other organization’s schedules in order for them to be able to participate in the event.

“My favorite part about relay for life is the Luminaria Ceremony,” said Pampuch. “Everyone takes a silent lap in order to honor those who are still fighting, or have unfortunately lost their battle against cancer.”

Bags are decorated throughout the event and during the ceremony they are filled with candles and then placed along the path to provide light. Pampuch has been participating in Relay For Life since she was seven years old.

“Relay for life is special to me because I am a cancer survivor. I beat Leukemia,” Pampuch said.

Cancer survivors participating in the event could be spotted wearing purple shirts. Those in white shirts were part of the Hope club, which consisted of people who donated $100 or more to the event.

This year’s goal was $11,000. By 3 p.m. they had reached $8,000 and by hour 12 they had hit $10,891.79.

On Sunday, Lobo’s held a “dine and donate” event where all of the money made from sales goes to Relay For Life. They are still counting the final total, but it looks like they will meet their goal.

Lining the path of the quad, teams had booths set up with games and information about the cancer or group they were honoring. The Student Health Advisory Committee and Pre-Health Professions club chose lung cancer as their focus.

“We chose lung cancer because we really helped push the ‘Tobacco Free Campus’,” said club president and senior Megan Humphrey.

Another vibrant booth was the Nursing club’s.

“We are supporting ovarian cancer and our slogan is ‘Not All Cancer is Pink,’ because breast cancer usually

gets the most attention,” said junior nuring major Else Stuart.

Their booth even had an egg race participants could play.

Love Your Melon, also had a booth at the event, is a national apparel brand for children with cancer that was recently brought to Sonoma State.

“Half of the money from a purchase goes towards making more apparel to sell, while the other half goes to hospitals for research, as well as for assisting families with children who have cancer and making them more comfortable,” said sophomore Love Your Melon member Casey Elbert.

Love Your Melon also does something called “Superhero visits.”

“They go to hospitals and hangout with some of the kids and try to make them feel special,” Elbert said.

Throughout the long event, there were various forms of entertainment for the walkers. A Zumba class got particpates moving and a performance by the Sapphires brought more energy to the event.

“Charity brings out the sunlight on a rainy day,” said freshman and Alpha Psi pledge Ryan Somera who was walking with the Alpha Psi team.

Students interested in getting involved with Relay For Life next year, contact Katie Pampuch at pampuch@ sonoma.edu.

NAK crowns Kelly McReynolds as Miss Greek

facebook.com Nu Alpha Kappa at Sonoma State University hosted it’s annual philanthropy event, ‘Miss Greek’ last Friday in the Student Center Ballroom. The winner was Kelly McReynolds, member of Gamma Phi Beta. Sororities on campus, including both Panhellenic and local, nominated one member to represent them at the event. Once the girl was chosen, they participated in a series of rounds judged by members of the local community and NAK alumni members. The rounds included a question and answer section as well as a talent portion. McReynolds gets first choice of a booth at the annual ‘NAKland’ carnival that is hosted by NAK for children in the community.

Page 10

Sports

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

Seawolves steal first

Baseball team beat UCSD to move into first place in the CCAA North Division Tommy Call III Sports Editor

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fter a 12-1 drubbing in a non-conference skirmish against San Francisco State last week, Sonoma State’s baseball team fought against the rain and the UC San Diego Tritons over the weekend on Seawolf Diamond.

After dropping the first game of the doubleheader to the Tritons, the Seawolves were able to inflict revenge against UC San Diego in game two. Sunday’s victory put their record at 11-7 overall in conference, allowing the Seawolves to solidify first place in the CCAA north Division.

Due to inclement weather, the first game against the tritons was cancelled but the sun came to play Sunday and the Seawolves and Tritons played two.

Falling behind 2-0 early, Ryan O’Malley got things going for the Seawolves when his base knock initiated a forth inning rally, cutting the Triton’s lead in half.

Seawolf Ace Ryan Luna took the ball and halted any effort from the Tritons to extend its lead by striking out seven in six innings.

Senior Tyler Glenn stepped to the plate with one out and Spencer Neve on base in the eight. The big first basemen came in clutch with a base-clearing double to tie the game.

Devon Golden took the bump in the ninth with the

Game 2: 4/03/16

score knotted at two. With two down, Golden wasn’t able to close out the Tritons as they scored on a RBI single from Left Fielder Gardeigh Sanchez, making the score 3-2. O’malley’s two-out single wasn’t enough to start the Seawolves’ comeback as Ryan St. Martin bounced into a fielder’s choice to end the game.

In game two Junior Haydon Turpin took the ball, and that was pretty much all she wrote for the Tritons. Turpin went 7 ⅓ innings only allowing three hits while sitting down seven Tritons via strikeout. At one point Turpin retired ten consecutive Tritons.

The Seawolves offense got involved in the Seventh inning when Bryant Cid got things started with a single.

Cid was able to get to third on a Brett Sesma single.

Sophomore Rayson Romero stepped to the dish with two runners on, and true to his Hawaiian roots proved he was the big kahuna, scoring Cid on a sac-fly to center field for the only run of the game.

The 1-0 victory moved the Seawolves in sole possession of first place in the CCAA west division.

Seawolf slugger Ryan O’Malley was all over the diamond for the Seawolves going 4-8 in the doubleheader, boosting his batting average to a whooping .405. O’Malley leads the CCAA with seven jacks and a .738 slugging percentage.

The Seawolves will now play seven games over the next week against the third place CSU Monterey Bay and Cal State San Marcos.

R

Sonoma State (11-7): 000 000 100 1 UC San Diego (7-23): 000 000 000 0

H E

3 0 7 3

WP:Haydon Turpin (3-1) LP: Preston Mott (1-1) S: Cody Bennett (3) Bryant Cid: 2-3, R; Rayson Romero: 0-2, 1 RBI, 1 SF

STAR // Megan Corcoran The Seawolves 1-0 victory vs. UCSD Sunday.

Women’s water polo sinks CSU East Bay Kristen Spear Staff Writer

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ictory filled the pool as Sonoma State’s very own Carleigh Robinson sunk the winning goal into the back of the net with less than two minutes remaining against Cal State East Bay for a final score of 10-9.

Both teams put on a heart pounding performance for the fans as they battled through every minute of the game. The Seawolves took the lead in the first period 4-2, but quickly saw themselves at the tail end of the game when CSUEB scored three consecutive goals, proving they weren’t backing down.

sonomaseawolves.com Women’s water polo defeat WWPA rival in its home pool.

Senior center Noelle Herrera shifted momentum yet again as she answered East Bay’s call, tying the game 5-5. Both sides of defense held strong for five minutes to end the first period.

“When I tied the game it was the push we needed to continue with our lead through the game,” said Herrera. “It pushed the momentum in our favor, we wanted to finish the game strong.”

The Pioneers took the second period into their hands, inching their way into the 6-5 lead. From this point forward, Sonoma State and East Bay would continue to switch leads, as two consecutive goals from each team were scored one after the other, with the Pioneers ultimately gaining the advantage. Robinson managed to fasten the tie at 6-6 right before halftime, returning after the break to tally her third goal of the game in just over a minute of play for the 7-6 advantage.

“My teammates are what keeps me motivated. There was a lot of positivity and encouragement in and out of the pool,” said Robinson.

CSUEB found their second wind as they netted two, but senior Kaysie Lewis and Robinson responded with back-to-back goals in the third quarter.

East Bay took the heat, retaliating to tie the game yet again midway through the fourth.

With 2:41 on the clock the question begged, which defense can rise and hold off the opponent?

Robinson answered, launching the ball to the back of the net to push for the win as her team fought hard defensively to shut the Pioneers down and emerge victorious, 10-9.

“It was a good feeling helping my team to win a big game,” said Robinson. “Everyone was working hard to set each other up and cover for one another, so it was definitely a team effort.”

Goalie Taylor Plorin came up big in the last minutes of the game, with eight saves overall.

“In order to keep myself focused when our team is leading, I have to make sure that I stay positive and relaxed,” said Plorin. “I keep my adrenaline going so that I keep performing my best for my team.”

Sonoma State advances 11-13 overall and 2-1 in WWPA. The Seawolves will play one more regular season match Saturday at 4 p.m. at Fresno Pacific in preparation for the Western Water Polo Association Championships on Apr. 29- May 1.

Women’s track running at record pace Andrea Serles Staff Writer

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fter a record setting performance in San Francisco, Angelique Lopez and the Sonoma State University women’s track team stepped into the blocks and ran through records again.

The Seawolves competed in the Chico State distance carnival where several members of the track team participated in events over this past weekend.

Angelique Lopez set the tone for the distance carnival when she set her personal record in the 100 yard dash in the preliminary round only to break her personal best in the real race with a time of 12.50. Which was good enough for fifth best in school history. Lopez ran the fastest time by a Seawolf runner since 1996.

Lopez’ time was good enough for fourth place overall in the 100 meter dash.

Lopez wasn’t the only Seawolf to set a personal record as sophomore, Sierra Downum ran a 5:12:39 in the 1500. Downum chalks up the Seawolves impressive times on the track to good coaching.

“Coach Sean is definitely one of the best coaches, he knows what every girl capable of doing and gives us hard workouts so we can reach our goals and full potential,” said Downum.

After spring her way through records in the 100 meter dash, Lopez ran the 400 hurdles for the first time ever, taking 7th in 68.08.

Freshman Analicia Garcia, junior Jasmine Rivera and sophomore Sierra Downum all achieved solid times in Chico this past weekend. Garcia ran on the seeded race, taking 6th place in 4:54.51. This was Garcia’s third time this season running a time under 5:00.

“I came on to the team having no expectations of making it this far. I feel so blessed to be on this team,” said Garcia.

Following Garcia was Rivera, who dipped under :60 in the 400 for the second week in a row, in 59.75.

While lastly, Sierra Downum knocked a half second off her PR in the 1500, finishing with a final score of 5:12.39.

“The girls have been working extremely hard and I can’t wait to see what we can do this weekend. Each

sonomaseawolves.com Angelique Lopez sprints through the finish line. weekend times have been getting faster and faster,” said junior Kelsey Lucas when asked how she thinks next weekend’s race will go. Next week the women’s track & field team will compete in the Cal State East Bay Legacy Invitational, which will be held in Hayward.

Sports

April 12- April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

Page 11

Softball team turn two in San Francisco Bianca Sanborn Staff Writer

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he Seawolves snapped the Gators’ jaws shut in their own swamp, bringing home another victory for the Sonoma State softball team.

Wednesday’s clear skies set the perfect tone for Seawolf domination at San Francisco State and a sweep in the double-header with 5-0 and 3-1 wins. Sonoma appeared to keep their momentum from the prior weekend, where they had won five of six matchups in the Tournament of Champions at Stanislaus State.

The first event at noon got off to a slow start, remaining scoreless throughout the first two innings.

The top of the third changed the fate of the game when senior Jena Kaser smacked a grand slam past right center, scoring Carlie Daniel, Alee Balanon and Malory Masajlo.

“The grand slam felt awesome, even though I struggled to stay consistent at the plate the rest of the double header,” said Kaser, “but I’ve definitely been seeing the ball big since the tournament and San Francisco.”

The 4-0 lead remained untouched by San Francisco thanks to Seawolf pitcher Amanda Llerena who struck out eight Gators and only allowed five hits in the first game.

“It felt really good, especially with San Francisco being in second place at the time,” said Llerena.

“Our defense was looking good as well. That added even more fuel to me in the circle.”

Lindsey Calcan-Blair was able to add to the lead in the fourth inning, with a single to left field that sent Mayleen Mazon home.

Unfortunately for San Francisco, Llerena kept the Gators far away from any chance of scoring in the remaining three innings.

Sonoma acquired their first victory of the day, 5-0.

Jordann White set the pace early in the second game, scoring Balanon at the top of the first with a single to left field. Sonoma tacked another run against San Fransisco in the second inning when Calcany Blair doubled to left center and Ricossa touched base at home.

In the fifth inning, Daniel added the third and final Seawolf RBI of the game, reinforcing the 3-0 lead against the Gators.

San Francisco, unable to keep up on both the offensive and defensive ends of the diamond, remained scoreless until the bottom of the seventh. San Francisco was finally able to connect with Llerena’s pitch, sending the ball to left field and scoring a Gator to end the game with a 3-1 Seawolf victory.

Llerena added two complete game victories to her impressive 16-7 record, allowing only one run in fourteen innings on Wednesday.

“We were doing a great job staying up on every out,” said Llerena. “We just need to keep continuing to hit the ball harder and harder in the box.”

The Sonoma State softball team currently holds third place in CCAA standings, trailing closely behind Humboldt and Chico State.

Wednesday’s matchup brought the Seawolves’ overall record to 24-14, with a conference record of 16-9.

“Our team is getting better every series, taking care of the small things better and seeing results in the aftermath,” said Kaser. “I’m just trying to take in the rest of the series and enjoy my last couple of games of my career as a Seawolf.”

Sonoma State looks forward to challenging the first place conference holder Humboldt State on Monday and Tuesday, with two crucial double-headers against the Lumberjacks on their own turf.

SPORTS SCHEDULE Tuesday 4/12

Saturday 4/16

Men’s Golf Hanny Stanislaus Invitational All Day

Women’s Tennis PacWest Tournament Men’s Tennis PacWest Tournament

Softball Softball @ Humboldt State (DH) @ Stanislaus State (DH) 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.

Noon & 2 p.m.

Wednesday 4/13 Baseball @ CSU San Marcos (DH) Women’s Tennis Noon & 3 p.m.

PacWest Tournament Thursday 4/14 Women’s Tennis PacWest Tournament Men’s Tennis PacWest Tournament Friday 4/15

Women’s Water Polo @ Fresno Pacific Men’s Lacrosse Vs Stanford 1 p.m.

Sunday 4/17

Women’s Tennis PacWest Tournament

Baseball @ CSU San Marcos 11 a.m.

Men’s Tennis PacWest Tournament

Monday 4/18

Women’s Track @ Cal State East Bay Legacy Invitational Softball @ Stanislaus State (DH) 4 p.m. & 6 p.m.

Saturday 4/16 Women’s Track @ Cal State Stanislaus Legacy Invitational

Men’s Golf CCAA Championships Baseball Vs CSU Monterey Bay 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.

Softball @ SF State 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.

STAR// Sara Wildman Jensyn Warren getting ready to smash home a serve.

Remember the name: Jensyn Warren Naaman Hightower Staff Writer

“I

don’t consider myself as a leader on the team,” said Sonoma State Universities women’s tennis freshman, Jensyn Warren.

This modest quote by Warren contradicts her performance throughout her first year with the Seawolves. During the season she emerged as one of the top players on the team, helping the unit to a scorching 7-0 start on the year. The streak is sure to be one her most memorable times of the season thus far. Specifically, Warren recounts the tough match between Academy of Art, longtime rival of the Seawolves.

“The deciding match came down to mine, and after the win my teammates ran out onto the court.

It was such a great feeling. It was the first time we beat Academy in a long time,” said Warren.

Her teammate, sophomore Mariann Bukich, loves having Warren as a part of this year’s team.

“Jensyn has been a phenomenal addition to the team this year. Especially after last year’s finish, she brings intensity, talent and sportsmanship to a great group of girls,” said Bukich.

For her efforts during the bout, Warren was awarded PacWest Player of the Week honors.

“I felt really honored considering the fact that I am a freshman and I was given such a special award,” said Warren. “I hope that in the upcoming years I have the possibility to receive another award like this.”

Warren has especially had much success with doubles partner Jordyn Kearney. The pair proved

themselves every time they step on the court “I think doubles is my favorite match type because I love playing with Jordyn. We play really well together and it’s always good competition and a lot of fun,” said Warren.

The pair took the doubles title in the Dominican Fall Challenge, proving themselves a force to be reckoned with for the No. 24 nationally ranked Seawolves.

Like every great player, Warren struggles internally at times.

“The hardest aspect of the game is trying not to get down and negative towards myself after a bad point,” said Warren. “Keeping up good intensity and energy throughout the whole match is most challenging for me.”

Warren credits the team’s success this year to her teammates and coaches, Joaquin Lopez and Head Assistant Jose Hilla.

“Joaquin and Jose are like father figures to me. I trust them both so much and I feel like I can come to them with anything,” said Warren.

“They’re the best coaches I’ve ever had. And everyone on my team is like a sister to me. We’re all super close and one big family.”

Warren’s humility, skill and determination are key components to an already promising future on Sonoma State’s women’s tennis team.

“I’m the only freshmen and the youngest on the team. But I hope to be more of a leader in the next three years,” said Warren.

Check out Warren and the rest of the women from Sonoma State’s tennis team as they push for a playoff run in the Pac West championship tournament Wednesday.

Women’s golf places 2nd in home tournament Blake Robinson Staff Writer

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fter several top ten finishes to start the spring season, it was finally time for the women of Sonoma State’s golf team to defend its home course. The annual spring Seawolf invitational at the par 72 Foxtail Golf Club in Rohnert Park took place last week where the Seawolves were able to capture second place overall for the two-day tournament.

After a long first round, the Seawolves found themselves buried behind the front runners, the Chico State Wildcats. In the second round at Foxtail the Seawolves chipped away at the Wildcat’s 10-shot lead. With a close finish, the Seawolves took the lead by one stroke near the end of the final round. Only to fall behind Chico State again coming in second place for the tournament. Finishing only two strokes behind the Wildcats.

Even with the Seawolves falling short in second place, the ladies were able to post a solid final score of 618 (+42).

With a total score of 616 (+40) the Wildcats were able to grind out its first tournament championship since October 2013.

In third, Simon Fraser University came in with 632 (+56). Cal State San Marcos totaled 645 (+69) for the fourth place spot, and the trailing Cal State East Bay ends with 656 (+80) to skim the top five position.

Individually, freshman Samantha Oliva’s placed second out of 56 golfers. Oliva had a score of 153 (+9) in the 36-hole tournament, only three shots behind the Wildcat’s Bianca Armanini, the receiver of top medalist honors with her tournament performance of 150 (+6). Armanini is only the fifth player in Wildcat program history to win a tournament.

“The course had a pretty difficult set up both days, but after that first day it lit a fire in me to try and go low the seconf round to catch up and beat Chico,” said Samatha Oliva.

Senior Sarah Rotter received a third place score of 155 (+11) A fun family dinner conversation to say the least, Rotter tied freshman sister Emily Rotter who plays for the champion Wildcat team. The Rotter’s not only tied themselves, but also two other golfers who came in third.

Erin Martens helped the team with a 156 (+12) score, keeping the seventh place spot.

Following not far behind was junior Haley Whitbeck tying for 10 th place with a 158 (+14).

Placing 16th , senior Alexis Hayes scored 161 (+17).

The Seawolves’ postseason still remains up in the air going into the last regular season tune up. April 22 holds the date of one-round “Battle of the Bay.” This tournament collects all the CCAA teams that participate in women’s golf and puts them on the course together to duke it out.

The event will be hosted by Cal State Monterey Bay at the Pacific Grove Golf Links.

“Im pretty stoked to be on a team that is dissapointed about a second place finish,” said Oliva. “We’re going to comeback and fight hard as we move into our postseason and im excited to see where we end up.”

The Seawolves’ fate lies in the success of this tournament as they seek to qualify in the NCAA Division II West Regional Tournament. The Seawolves have qualified seven out of the last eight years, and hope to make it eight out of nine.

Page 12

Photo

April 12 - April 18, 2016 sonomastatestar.com

Baseball team holds first place in CCAA North Division

STAR // Megan Corcoran Left: Ryan O’Malley, #9 got a hit against the UC San Diego Tritons on Sunday. Right: DeVon Golden, #21 pitched to the UC San Diego Tritons at the Seawolf Diamond on Sunday.

Relay For Life at Sonoma State University

STAR // Shane Bickford Top: Participants take instructions from Relay for Life staff. Bottom Left: Staff help participants sign in to the event. Bottom Right: An aerial view of a portion of the Relay for Life event in the Darwin Quad on Friday.

Nu Alpha Kappa fraternity hosts Miss Greek 2016

STAR // Megan Corcoran Right: Gamma Phi Beta member Kelly McReynolds was crowned Miss Greek 2016. Middle: Alpha Delta Pi’s Shelby Warner rapped during the competition. Left: Shelby Warner won the title of “Most Spirited.”