Volume 78 // Issue 13

In this issue: Opinion: President Donald Trump’s new healthcare plan adds new pre-existing conditions. Pg. 3

Sports: Men’s baseball takes on the Torros over weekend. Pg. 11

A&E: Guardians of the Galaxy back for round two. Is it worth the hype? Pg. 7 Student Life: Commencement holds new rules for graduates.

Pg. 8

SINCE 1979

VOLUME 78 // ISSUE 13

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

Sonoma State’s university library prepares for system changes, innovation lab will be one addition

A

COURTESY // Bugspray.com The sign needed to be posted at locations where pesticdes are sprayed, according to state law. The California Department of Pesticide states that all pesticide users must assure notice is given to any persons who are on the treated property.

Is Sonoma State violating state law by not posting signs when spraying pesticides?

Sam Evans Staff Writer

O

ver the past two years, Sonoma State University Landscape Services has used a total of 18 different pesticides on campus. Among them is a glyphosate-based herbicide called Ranger Pro, which some experts say causes cancer.

Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide, which kills weeds by attacking them at the root. According to public records, obtained by the STAR, Sonoma State landscapers used 4,312.4 ounces of Ranger Pro in 2016.

Ranger Pro must first be diluted with a ratio of about three ounces to one gallon of water before use. Therefore, the school sprayed about 1,500 gallons of Ranger Pro solution last year.

Despite its efficiency, the use of Ranger Pro and other glyphosate-based herbicides is a subject of international controversy due to disagreement among researchers as to whether or not the chemical is carcinogenic.

While scientists have yet to reach a consensus about the potential danger of glyphosate, its use on campus has raised concerns among students. These concerns

are given more weight by the school’s reluctance to provide notice of where and when they spray.

“They’ll spray an area and then people will go sit there. It’s very much open to the public, and that’s a serious health concern,” Sonoma State University student and Children’s School gardener Brian McIsaac said.

“I think the fact that they don’t put up signs where they spray is a big problem. If it’s not against the law, then it should be.”

As it turns out, there is a state law that requires those who use pesticides to give public notice of where and when they’ve been used. According to the California Department of Pesticide Regulation’s Pesticide Use Compliance Guide for Employers and Businesses, all pesticide users must assure that notice is given to any persons who are on the treated property, or who are likely to enter it.

The notice must include the date of the application, the brand name or common chemical name of the pesticide, and all precautions observed, as specified on the pesticide labeling or included in applicable laws or regulations.

Edgar Sanchez Staff Writer

n Innovation Lab, a new book-checkout system and increased resources will all be available for students at the Jean and Charles Schulz Information center when they return for fall 2017.

According to Jonathan Smith, director of library technology, a currently unused room in the second floor of the Sonoma State Library will transform this summer into an Innovation Lab. The lab will live up to its name by providing students an array of technological resources with the intent of creating a space for innovation.

The resources include 3D printers, 3D scanners and virtual reality stations.

“We hope to create a space where students from all majors can come discover and innovate,” said Smith.

The lab will also provide additional study area and is expected to be inaugurated in the fall.

That is, however, only one of

the new changes coming to the Sonoma State library.

The 23 California State Universities unveiled a plan that will allow Cal State students to rent books and media from all university libraries that are a part of the CSU system.

OneSearch, which will be available starting this summer, will connect all 23 libraries in one common catalog. CSU+ will then enable students to request books and media from other CSU’s and rent them for up to 60 days and 30 days, respectively.

“We did a study that demonstrated that we were able to fulfill book and media requests from within the 23 CSU libraries,” said Library Dean Karen Schneider In addition, the new system will allow students to rent books that are available in their local library for up to one semester and one year for faculty. To support the Graduation Initiative, the system will also eliminate all overdue fines.

See INNOVATION on Pg. 5

STAR // Konrad Schoffer Sophomore Milo Moré studies on the third floor of the university library.

See PESTICIDE on Pg. 4

Green Music Center releases summer concert lineup Amber Rodarte Staff Writer

This summer will provide a wide range of concerts and events at Sonoma State University’s Green Music Center.

Events from movie viewings to performances by Grammy award-winning artists are slated to perform in the GMC, one of

the major hubs for arts in the North Bay. For students staying in Sonoma County over the summer there will be plenty of entertaining options at the GMC. Here’s a list of a few events available to the public this summer. For more information on the summer series, visit http://gmc.sonoma. edu/Summer2017.

See SUMMER on Pg. 4

COURTESY // The Realness Numerous hip-hop albums were released in 2017

The top three hip-hop songs that got students through the school year Check out staff writer Simon CherinGordon top 3 hip-hop songs of the school

STAR // Alyssa Archerda

year in the arts & entertainment section on pg. 7

The summer’s lineup includes artists such Jake Owen and Kathy Mattea.

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Editorial

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

THE STAR Editorial Board Shannon Brown, Editor-in-Chief Thomas Call lll, Executive Editor Kim Baptista, Managing Editor Joseph Encinas, News Editor Nate Galvan, Asst. News Editor Jenna Fischer, Opinion Editor Emma Devitt, Ar ts & Enter tainment Editor Ethan Helms, Student Life Editor Bianca Sanborn, Spor ts Editor Sara Wildman, Photo Editor Rene De Amaral, Copy Editor Alex T. Randolph, Copy Editor Ashley Mar tin, Adver tising Manager Brennan Chin, Distribution Director Paul Gullixson, Faculty Adviser

Staff Writers Alyssa Archerda, Alexis Austin, Kevin Brill, Nolan Brough, Emma Capper, Braden Car twright, Simon Cherin-Gordon, Sean Curzon, Alexandra Daniels, Amira Dabbas, Sam Evans, Cailan Ferrel, Annie Finck, Kitana Gachero, Peter Gatembu, Kendall Grove, Tyler Heberle, Naaman Hightower, Lindsey Huffman, Olivia Hunt, Jacqueline Huynh, Nathan Jew, Matthew Koch, Brigitte Maina, Joseph Magill, Amber Rodar te, Edgar Sanchez, Konrad Schoffer, Chad Shaver, Lauren Sniffin, Jacob Tucker, Antonia VanWinkle, Michelle Violetti, Bailey Young

Photographers Megan Corcoran, Jade Eriksson, Erika Peterson, Konrad Schoffer, Jeno Veltri

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: “French elections earn global attention”

Staff Writer Tyler Heberle spotlights the International Exchange Council and the rewards and importance of studying abroad.

Read the story on page 8

STAR // Kevin Flores

Read it and weep, textbook prices reach all time high

H

ow much is too much for a textbook? And when does a student have to make the choice to buy the book? This choice could result in a lower grade by not having the book or eating ramen and crackers for weeks because of the debt. According to figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and NBC news, since 1977 the price of college textbooks has been more than triple the rate of inflation, meaning a 1,041 percent increase.

While this seems hard to grasp initially, it’s easy to see how this continues to happen. After all, students are a captive audience with not many choices or options to obtain books and other materials. Students can either shop around online, seek out independent bookstores or buy from the campus bookstore. At the end of the semester, trying to sell a book back results in only receiving pennies on the dollar. It’s a vicious cycle; buy high and sell low.

Students feel taken advantage of by the publishing companies.

How can universities help offset this cost to students? It should be in the best interest of Sonoma State University administrators to come up with alternatives to not only help ease the financial burden but actually help students get through school and graduate on time with minimal debt. According to U.S. News and World Report, some students decide which classes to take based on how many books they have to buy. They either take the plunge - register for a full academic load and figure out how to come up with the money for books - or opt to take a lighter load and stay in school longer, extending the cost of their education further.

Some colleges such as University of Redlands have gotten creative through lending programs funded by alumni donors to purchase books for a whole course, allowing students to check out a book for the entire semester. Having a program like this

would ease the financial strain on students and ensure their academic success as well. A suggestion to the Sonoma State Associated Students would be to adopt a small fee to each student registering for school and have it be allocated to buying books and creating a semester-long library lending system, similar to the University of Montana’s program. By adding this small fee during registration, it would significantly reduce the high cost of books one individual student would be required to buy.

Associated Students and the library could work with faculty to create a database of books required and buy in bulk to ensure that everyone gets the books they need at a more reasonable price. The College of Marin has a similar program as well. During the February Associated Students meeting, they voted to approve $12,000 to the library book loan program for the 2017- 2018 academic year. During the fall semester, they loaned out 500 books to students, an example of how well this system works.

According to CollegeBoard.org, the average cost of a textbook is $200. If a student borrowed three books, they’d save $600. That would save students nearly $4,800 over the span of four years if such a program was created and implemented.

While this is a small amount of books and classes served at College of Marin and other colleges, it’s a step in the right direction to help students succeed and ease the cost of higher education. It is something Sonoma State should seriously consider. It could be a community-wide campaign with the university, alumni and donors all coming together to help students reach the goal of a college education, without the added stress of paying for overpriced books. At the end of the day, a student should only be worried about the course content, not if they can afford to buy the book they need to pass the class.

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.

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.

HAVE AN OPINION? WE'D LIKE TO READ IT. THE STAR WELCOMES AND ENCOURAGES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR AND GUEST SUBMISSIONS. FOR MORE INFORMATION, READ THE LEFT SIDEBAR FOR OUR POLICIES ON EDITORIALS AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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.

E-MAIL ALL OPINIONS TO STAR@SONOMA.EDU

Opinion

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017 sonomastatestar.com

Page 3

AHCA disasterous for American health care replace it. Repealing Obamacare has been one of Trump’s biggest campaign promises, and he is wasting no time.

The American Health Care Act would leave millions of citizens without any form of health care, potentially raise the price of insurance and leave people with pre-existing conditions completely helpless. The U.S. remains the only industrialized country without a universal health care plan for its citizens, and it doesn’t seem like our government has plans to change that anytime soon.

Olivia Hunt Staff Writer

W

ithin the first 100 days of Trump, he has managed to declare war on almost everything from women’s rights to healthy school lunches.

Although he continues to receive criticisms and warnings for his actions, he has not shown signs of slowing his process of “Making America great again.” For a majority of people living in the United States, the concept of Trump’s America is a threat to human rights, free speech and general well being.

The vastly unpopular president’s newest crusade is to abolish former President Obama’s health care plan and

The AHCA leaves millions without health care, potentially raises the price of insurance and leaves people with pre-existing conditions helpless.

In addition to leaving millions without health care, the AHCA is a direct attack on women, considering it would defund Planned Parenthood and restrict women’s access to birth control by allowing states to opt out of essential care. An amendment in the GOP health care reform bill which passed in the House last week, would allow states

I

n the heavily technological society we are apart of, many people nowadays rely on social media, such as Facebook, to receive their news. While it may be ideal and easy to get, social media platforms are not the most reliable source for true and accurate news stories.

According to Pew Research Center, 66 percent of people who have Facebook accounts use the site for news. To add to that, 64 percent of people who get their news from social media say they get it from only one site, this being “most commonly Facebook.”

Social media can be a fun and valuable way to keep up with “social” things such as watching the newest Tasty recipe video or following what a celebrity wore to a recent event.

But in terms of worldly or political news, stories can get twisted and become unreliable and even incorrect. Another reason to not trust social media-based news is that it shows you stories it thinks you would be interested in.

The internet can keep track of things you “like” or search frequently. It then shows you “news” related to things you interact with.

Facebook partially does this to keep people interested and remain on their site.

According to the Huffington Post, “Social media tends to stress on anecdotal information rather than evidence-based reports, which could be dangerous when used as a primary source of information.”

“Meanwhile, the advantage of online news is that it is real-time, but its disadvantage is low credibility and reliability,” said Triluj Navamarat, the chairman of the Media Agency Association of Thailand.

Almost everything is done online now, which is why online news, especially from social media sites, is so favored.

Although technology and social media are helping the world advance in communicative ways, technology is also contributing to the false information people are receiving.

When social media is already a huge part of our lives, having news correlate with it becomes the most convenient for social media users. Pulling up twitter and seeing the latest news stories is the most easily accessible.

According to CBS News, some fake news publishers use computer software called “bots” which automatically like or retweet a particular story. This causes a story to look a lot more popular than it actually is. Once a story gains popularity through these bots, people start to see it and then react to it as well.

An example of a fake news story gaining much popularity was the story titled “Hillary Clinton has Parkinson’s Disease, physician confirms.”

Facebook and Twitter select stories to show primarily based on how popular they currently are. But this popularity could be fake, having been fooled by bots.

Although technology and social media are helping the world advance in communicative ways, technology is also contributing to the false information people are receiving. So much information is available to so many people, but it’s becoming more and more unreliable with the advancements in technology.

Facebook and other social media platforms are attracting the most fake news that gets circulated around the internet. Although convenient, social media sites are the least reliable sources to rely on receiving your news from. A balance of both social media and more trustworthy sites can be the best combination to have enjoyable, but accurate, news consumption.

be directly affected by the bill. Even Blue Shield Insurance, one of the more popular agencies, came out in opposition stating, “It raises the specter that the sickest and neediest among us will be disproportionately hit in losing access,” said Paul Markovich, the company’s president and CEO. Over time, the bill will cut Medicaid by 25 percent, resulting in a drastic cut in school funding which will ultimately affect programs for students with disabilities. For older adults, the AHCA would raise premiums by the thousands, which retired, sick or lowincome older adults would have no way to earn. Basically, no matter who you are, where you’re from or how much money you have, the AHCA will likely affect you or someone close to you. Everyone, that is, besides Congressmen.

That’s right, the Obamacare repeal bill contains an exemption for members of Congress and their staffs.

According to the Los Angeles Times, “it would give the incomes of those in the top 20 percent—and especially the top one percent—a significant boost.” In other terms, the AHCA is just another strategic scheme that allows tax cut for the rich, and disregards the rest of Americans.

Freedom of press declines

Social media contributes to fake news

Alex Daniels Staff Writer

to grant insurance companies the ability to deny coverage to patients based on their personal medical histories, including if they suffered from.

In addition to sexual assault, the bill endangers people with postpartum depression as well women who have had a cesarean section. Being a woman is now a pre-existing condition considering “menstrual irregularities” made the list. Women are already paying 69 percent more than men in out-of-pocket healthcare costs such as mammograms.

Pregnancy will cost 425 percent more under Trump’s health care plan than Obamacare, according to the Independent.

To make matters worse, under AHCA sexual assault and domestic violence would be considered pre-existing conditions, leaving survivors at jeopardy. Pregnant women, people with breast cancer, diabetes and AIDS also fall under the pre-existing condition category along with about 100 other common illnesses. It’s unlikely Senate Republicans understand the magnitude of the risk they are putting American people under.

The bill would affect people across the board, leading to the unity of doctors, insurers and hospitals who will

Kendall Grove Staff Writer

S

ince President Donald Trump has been in office, there has already been many changes. Most leave the opposing party at a loss, but one of his most shocking contributions to office has been his reduction of the freedom of the press.

Freedom House, an independent watchdog organization that is dedicated to expanding freedom and democracy worldwide, released a study showing the declining freedom of press rates in the U.S. Based on the year’s journalist experience economically, legally and politically, Freedom House releases annual reports showing the discrepancies between past and present freedom. According to the 2017 report, it can be estimated that freedom of press is down lower than it has been in the past 13 years.

Aside from anti-freedom ideology impacting the citizens, Trump’s hostility toward the press has begun affecting the way government agencies communicate through media.

In early January, Trump issued a media blackout for the Environmental Protection Agency. This blackout stopped the staff from awarding new contracts or grants. It is said that Trumps order banned all news releases, blog updates and social media activity.

The Freedom House Report said that, “No U.S. president in recent memory has shown greater contempt for the press than Trump in his first months in office.” It also suggested that, “Trump’s attacks mirror initial actions in other countries where media freedom subsequently suffered far more drastic restrictions and interference.”

“Fake news” has also been a concern with Trump to the extent that he has con-

demned journalists as “the enemy of the people.” Due to Trump’s ideology around media, he has barred multiple news sources from his daily press briefing on occasion.

This kind of secretive behavior in both Trump’s campaign as well as presidency should be a concern to the public. By excluding journalists, Trump is eliminating watchdogs and leaving the public blind to his motives.

A New York Times article explained Trump’s restriction by saying, “At a time when journalists around the world are being killed and imprisoned in record numbers, Trump’s relentless tirades against “fake news” are emboldening autocrats and depriving threatened and endangered journalists of one of their strongest supporters — the United States government.”

The same New York Times article also recalls a moment last December when Trump was asked to comment on “the systematic killings of journalists in Russia”

by MSNBC where he “shrugged” and said, “Well I think our country does plenty of killing, too.”

If this treatment of the press does not alarm you, you may want to think again about where you get your news from.

Pew Research Center released a study explaining that 77 percent of the U.S. gets its news from the television and print newspaper. Without credible sources to convey information about the government and the action that are being taken, the U.S. would slowly become closer and closer to countries, such as North Korea, who limit the freedom of press and speech.

Susan Seager, who is a First Amendment attorney and LawNewz columnist said, “This is not the same as when the government selects one television network camera to serve as a pool camera... Here, the president has publicly criticized the New York Times and CNN. So it seems pretty clear this is punishment for the content published by those news outlets, and President Trump and Sean Spicer cannot reasonably claim that this ban was contentneutral,” said Seager.

Trump can’t be allowed censor news media in any way, shape or form, especially since most of his censorship is in retaliation of the negative stories about him.

If he is only allowing certain news services to cover his presidency, it will lead to a heavy bias in news as well as media corruption.

CNN White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer talks to reporters.

Page 4

News

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

Green Music Center finds new executive director in Iowa Nathan Jew Staff Writer

S

tudents at Sonoma State University can expect to see more interaction between the Green Music Center and the rest of the campus if the GMC’s new executive director, Jacob Yarrow, has anything to say about it. Yarrow, who accepted the new post last month, comes to Sonoma State from the University of Iowa where he was programming director for Hancher Auditorium for the last eight years. He will start his new job at the GMC in June.

“As programming director at the University of Iowa’s Hancher Auditorium, I take the lead in developing our artistic projects and building a season of compelling performances,” Yarrow said. “We put great emphasis on building engagement with our campus and community through working with fascinating artists from a variety of cultural traditions.”

Yarrow said he plans to use his experience at the University of Iowa to employ similar tactics at the GMC. Yarrow will be taking over for both Zarin Mehta, co-executive director of the Green Music Center since 2013, who announced his retirement last fall, and Interim Executive Director Stan Nosek, who is also the university’s interim vice president for administration and finance.

Yarrow had high praise for both the GMC facility and its current programming.

“The Green Music Center is a stunning facility with an excellent reputation,” Yarrow said. “I’ve paid attention to the excellent programming since it was founded.”

According to Yarrow, watching the GMC over the last few months is what really cemented his decision to move. “As I learned more about Sonoma State, I grew increasingly inspired by the sense of energy and possibilities on the campus,” he said.

Coming off an eight-year employment with the University of Iowa, and six years previous to that as executive director of Garth Newel Music Center in

rural Virginia, Yarrow said the prospect of working not just with the GMC but also with Sonoma State and the local community excites him.

“I look forward to working with constituents on campus and throughout the area,” Yarrow said. “I’m particularly interested in learning about the work of students, faculty, and staff and finding areas where we can intersect. Together we can determine the best strategies to make the GMC an integral part of the region. Building on the successes of the first five years, we will create more great experiences and find new ways to build a sense of community.

At Hancher Yarrow worked to develop relations with organizations on campus like the Muslim Student Association. “We’ve slowly built a relationship that allows us to work together to meet the common goal of celebrating Islamic culture and supporting muslim students on campus,” Yarrow said. “That goal is ref lected by upcoming guest artist performances and Hancher hosting an event put on by the Muslim Student Association.”

Before he can project any significant changes to the GMC, Yarrow said he first has to spend time learning from the students, faculty, and organizations at Sonoma State. “Community grows out of building relationships and learning about what other organizations and individuals are trying to accomplish,” He said. “For a performing arts organization to be essential to the life of the campus, you have to actively build those relationships and be involved with the conversations that are happening on campus. Those interactions have to grow organically out of the people and ideas that are already present,” he said.

Henry Hansel, chair of the GMC Board of Advisors, said he firmly believes that Yarrow is the right choice.

“I am elated with whom the university has selected,” Hansel said in a statement. “His diverse experiences as an arts industry leader and as an educator are exactly what the GMC needs right now. His background and experience are such that he’s really going to be able to connect with all the constituencies

COURTESY // NewsCenter Yarrow was the programming director for the Hancher Auditorium at the University of Iowa. we serve: our audience, the university and especially students. I could not be more excited to start working with him.”

Yarrow, 45, is a Beckley, West Virginia native who started out as a touring musician and junior high school music teacher. Across his career he played the alto saxophone, f lute and clarinet, and performed in jazz bands and orchestras. He earned his bachelor of music degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and a master of music degree from the University of North Texas.

Yarrow will be relocating with his wife Debbie and their two teenage daughters

SUMMER: Jake Owen, Gloria Estefan to headline Green Music Center summer concert series

Gazzette Review

WHAT?: 4th of July Fireworks Spec-

tacular Celebrate the Independence Day with carnival games, food, music and fireworks.

WHEN?: The event will occur on the Weill Hall Lawn at 4:30 p.m.

WHO?: Grammy award winning singer Kathy Mattea and the Santa Rosa Symphony will start performing at 7:30 p.m. followed by an array of fireworks.

COST: Ticket prices start at $25.

Live Music Daily

WHAT?: The GMC’s 3rd Annual Blue-

grass Festival. The event has grown in popularity because of its distinct sound and talented performers. Along with the festival, the venue will also host the second Annual GMC Craft Beer Fest.

There will be over 15 breweries in attendance including Lagunitas, Moonlight Brewing, Bear Republic and more.

WHO?: The Del and Dawg Bluegrass Band, Mark O’Connor and the O’Connor Family Band and Sierra Hull.

WHEN?: Sunday, July 9 at 2 p.m.. at the GMC. COST: Admission for the Bluegrass Festival is $25 and the Craft Beer Fest requires a second ticket for $30 per person.

WHAT?: The Standards & More with Festival Napa Valley Music Academy Orchestra.

WHO?: Gloria Estefan will be performing songs from her 2013 album, “The Standards”.

WHEN?: July 15 at the GMC’s Weill Hall and Lawn.

COST: This concert’s ticket prices are $40 per person.

Green Music Center

Youtube

WHAT?: Get immersed in the Mexican culture by attending a free concert put on by the Santa Rosa Symphony.

WHO?: Green Music Center and the Santa Rosa Symphony featuring Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez and the Santa Rosa Symphony conducted by Michael Berkowitz WHEN?: Sunday, July 30.

COST: Free tickets for the event go on sale July 5th.

Latina.com

Prime Social Group

WHO?: American country star Jake Owen.

WHERE?: Weill Hall and lawn WHEN:? Thursday, Aug. 10 at 7:30 COST?: Tickets for the event are starting at $25

WHAT?: Movies on the Green featuring Disney’s The Little Mermaid and Moana. Spend a relaxing summer evening watching some Disney classics.

WHEN?: On Saturday, July 22 there will be a free screening of The Little Mermaid and Moana starting at 5:00 p.m. at the Weill Hall Lawn. Take a trip through Disney’s history with the 1989 film followed by the more recent 2016 film.

COST: Movies on the Green is a free event.

News

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

Page 5

PESTICIDE: Experts debate over risk of pesticides used at Sonoma State University Continued from Pg. 1

COURTESY // The Landscaper Store Ranger Pro and other glyphosate-based herbicides are the subject of international controversy.

When asked why the school doesn’t observe this policy, Samuel Youney, the director of Landscaping Services at Sonoma State, refused to comment until he could gather further information on the subject.

In 2015, after evaluating the effects of glyphosate on humans, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a branch of the World Health Organization, classified glyphosate as a probable carcinogen under Category 2A, the second most dangerous classification in the IARC’s categorization system, after finding links to Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

However, Youney believes otherwise. Asserting that he is a firm believer in science with a degree in agronomy and a minor in chemistry, Youney questioned the legitimacy of the IARC’s study, pointing out that several other programs within the World Health Organization such as the Core Assessment Group and the International Programme on Chemical Safety disagree with the findings of the IARC. “There’s only one agency in the world right now called the IARC that believes glyphosate is carcinogenic, and they’re not using science,” Youney said. “The European Union and the rest of the World Health Organization say otherwise.” He didn’t expand on why he believes the IARC’s study was unscientific.

Whether glyphosate is carcinogenic or not, McIsaac expressed his dissatisfaction with the school’s use of the potentially dangerous chemical.

“As an institution of higher education, Sonoma State should be expected to be progressive and forward thinking,” he said. “It’s disappointing to me that we still use chemicals like this on our campus. We’re breathing this stuff in daily, and the university doesn’t even post warnings after spraying it.”

INNOVATION: New program will make CSU largest public university resources sharing system Continued from Pg. 1

“Small fines can really add up for students, so not having overdue fines is a big deal. They don’t get the books back in any faster and they can intimidate students,” said Schneider. “Students should not have to decide between eating lunch or paying an overdue fine.”

Since CSU+ will be operated by the CSU, their policies were created with the vision of being more student and faculty friendly. This includes being more mobile accessible and sustainable by sending all receipts via email.

Once CSU+ is implemented it will become the largest public university resource sharing system in the United States.

Finally, one of Sonoma State’s library most popular resource is

the laptop lending program. Since July 1, 2016, the library saw 7,000 laptop checkouts, often running out during peak hours, especially as finals come around. To meet the demand, the library is planning to add 45 laptops to the program, bringing the total number of laptops available to 65.

“I believe it is extremely beneficial for students to have access to laptops. I often work at the second f loor check-out desk and our laptops are one of the most popular items,” said student and library assistant, Edith Ayala. “ We do have desktops available on our first and second f loor, but many students rely on our laptops to be able to do work in class or anywhere else on campus.”

The laptops, in addition to everything else, will be available for student use in the fall.

NEWS IN BRIEF

SSU officer involved in shooting According to officials, a 22-year-old man was shot and wounded by a Sonoma State University police officer near downtown Cotati early Friday. According to Sgt. Spencer Crum of the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting occurred at approximately 5 a.m. According to the Sheriff’s Office, four women approached officers about a fight between a man and woman, which resulted in the man reportedly putting a gun to the head of one of the women and threatening to kill her if she did not leave. Officers heard gunshots soon after but no suspect was found until a few hours later when a Sonoma State officer saw a man walk out of a creek bed near the 100 block of East Cotati Avenue. Officers tried to contact the suspect, but he reportedly ran and, after unsuccessfully using a stun gun to subdue the suspect, two shots were fired at the man. According to police, the man is listed in critical condition and the officer is on paid administrative leave. Investigators are seeking witnesses in the shooting.

ATMs coming to Sonoma State The Sonoma State University Student Center is expected to house a series of ATMs by May 19, installed by Bank of America, Exchange Bank and Redwood Credit Union. The project was originally announced in the 2015-2016 school year but complications were involved for the price of completion. According to Jessica Way, president designee of Sonoma State University’s Board of Advisors, an architect was hired to do a drawing and give an estimate of the project, but the figure was too high, causing the process to take longer than expected. The ATMs are expected to be fully available for students by the fall semester.

Life expectancies going up - and down According to a report published Monday in JAMA Internal Medicine, life expectancy is increasing overall in the United States, but in some areas, so are death rates. According to a report from the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, life expectancy is greatest in parts of central Colorado, but in many parts of the United States, life expectancy is more than 20 years lower.

Economic disparity and lack of exercise and health care are reasons researchers found as to why some people live longer than others.

Bodies found under campus According to officials, the remains of 7,000 bodies may be buried beneath the University of Mississippi. The bodies are related to the state’s first mental institution which stretches across 20 acres of campus where administrators want to build. According to officials, it may cost up to $21 million to exhume and rebury each body, but the campus medical centr is looking at cheaper alternatives. The university hopes to create a memorial and laboratory for students to look at patients’ remains, as well as remnants of clothes and wood found.

Page 6

Arts

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

“Power Lines” brings energy to Ives 119 Emma Capper Staff Writer

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ome one come all, to the new play festival with hard hats. “Power Lines” opened on campus in Ives 119 over the weekend. Festival director Scott Horstein, who has annually hosted the “Super Mega Molten Hot Lava New Play Festival” curated “Power Lines” in order to give students a chance to experience a higher level of production. The students were given a real budget, full design and shop support, in addition to a spot in the school’s main stage season. If you missed opening weekend, you’ll have until May 13.

The festival features three plays, each written by a student. “The Tar: A Play” written by Victoria Saitz, depicts the importance of friendship in dark times. The growing bond between the characters overshadows the horror of the apocalyptic plot. It’s setting is in San Diego with mention of the Sonoma/Napa area, offering believability and excitement to the audience. The sound and narration provided by two “radio hosts” help carry a strong script through moments of silence. Additionally, the fusion of well-known songs such as “Paint it Black” by the Rolling Stones helps keep the mood relevant.

“I liked how ‘The Tar’ highlighted both religious and political views that are significant to today’s culture, especially

in California,” said Tania Freimuth, who came to watch her cousin in the show.

After the hour-long staging of “The Tar,” you’ll be greeted by a shorter production called “Nuclear Housewife,” written by James Rich. This play takes place in 1945 during World War II, and opens with the police interrogating a housewife about the murder of her husband. While the time, setting and characters are less relatable to the student body, the politics within the play are strikingly familiar. Anyone who believes in the phrase “history repeats itself” will grasp why this retelling of the past is so necessary for understanding the patterns in our government today.

The festival concludes on a more quirky note with “The Cultural Significance of the Dumpster” written by Natasha Potts. An abnormal woman, Sam, faces an existential crisis as she wades her way through a local dumpster. However, the extremity of her antics do not go misunderstood.

Sam is struggling to find her way after graduating high school. As she compares herself to her friends that seem to have it together, things only get worse, and more humorous. During her time “researching” the dumpster, Sam realizes the path she wants to take. Post graduation is a time when society pressures young people to follow a certain path.

Whether it’s continuing your education or immediately getting a job, it’s not easy

COURTESY // David Papas The three short plays were all written by students. They focus on themes such as friendship, politics and societal pressures. to avoid the pressure.

“I’m not planning on dumpster diving anytime soon, but I definitely related to Sam,” said Skye Dow, a senior at Sonoma State University. “The trouble she had accepting a predetermined path for herself is similar to my own feelings about graduation.”

“Power Lines” was a chance for theater students to direct, produce, write and act outside of the classroom.

“I’m an acting major, so it was different for me to be behind the scenes,” said Saitz. “Usually there is a set script, but we were able to substitute and edit our scripts throughout production.”

“Dawn of War III”

underwhelms veteran players Joey Magill Staff Writer facebok.com

Review

Netflix released “Dear White People” April 28.

“Dear White People” demands a conversation Alexis Austin Staff Writer

Review

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hen I was a sophomore here at Sonoma State University, I attended a Greek social event on campus with a friend. Both of us are biracial and have curly hair, but my friend chose to wear hers straight that night.

While attempting to enjoy ourselves, we were approached by a white male student who may have had a bit too much alcohol in his system. He asked my friend if she wanted to dance and immediately turned to me to justify why he chose her.

“I think you are both cute. I just like her more, it’s the straight hair, you know?”

Not to say I haven’t experienced this micro-aggression before, but there’s something about facing this in the same place I work, live and study. In that moment, he acknowledged me as a minority, insisting on pointing out what makes me “different.” I left the dance shortly after, questioning if I will ever be accepted.

Minority students on predominantly white college campuses face micro-aggressions far too often, and figuring out how to address and deal with the frustrations that amount from these, in this day and age, is a battle in its own.

The recently released Netflix series “Dear White People” is a drama-comedy following students on a fictional ivy league campus, Winchester, a predominately white institution. They navigate through similar issues centered around race, sexuality and class. The series is adapted from the 2014 critically acclaimed film of the same name and picks up where it left off, in the midst of a controversial blackface party.

“Dear White People, here are a list of acceptable Halloween costumes. A pirate, slutty nurse, any of our first 43 presidents.

Top of the list of unacceptable costumes?

Me,” the main character Sam White (Logan Browning) states unapologetically on her student-run campus radio show.

The series points out racially insensi-

tive parties, such as blackface parties, that most would consider a thing of the past, are still happening. To put this into a Sonoma State perspective, think of those who celebrated Cinco De Mayo on Friday. This is a prime example of, how the narrator puts it in the opening of the second episode, “a chance for the majority to celebrate marginalized communities by reinforcing the very stereotypes that oppress them.”

White, who does the radio show, is biracial, and as her best friend Joelle Brooks (Ashley Blaine Featherson) puts it, “not Rashida Jones biracial. You’re Tracee Ellis-Ross biracial. The world sees you as Black.”

Yet identity concerns are the least of her worries. She tries her hand in millennial black activism alongside her friend Reggie (Marque Richardson) in a time and place where millennial black activism is considered taboo. Not to mention her love interest in a white student, Gabe (John Amedori) . She faces difficulties from various sides at once, but remains stagnant in the collective cause, bringing those who are “down for it” as well together.

All of the leading characters in the show have their own story drawn out and seen from their perspective, even Gabe.

This style offers a level of sympathy and understanding to the viewer, similar to “Orange is the New Black,” the only other Lionsgate Netflix series.

Lionel (DeRon Horton), who is beginning his journalism career at the school’s newspaper is a vital character to those around him, who rely on him to publish real stories that expose institutional and ideological racism without blaming its victims or representing them in a poor light. But under the surface, he is embarking on his own journey to understand and embrace his sexuality.

Pairing incredibly witty and modern dialogue, satirical classical music and the “nonthreatening” narrator, “Dear White People” is not a show only for white people. It’s not a show only for black people.

It’s a show for everyone and includes something for everyone while bringing to the foreground present issues, topics and perspectives that other shows would never dare to delve into.

T

he “Dawn of War” video game franchise is one that has been running for more than a decade, but the recent game installments have been rather disappointing for many fans. Hopeful is what “Dawn of War III” brings for the future of this franchise. It has many aspects from the original “Dawn of War” real-time strategy games that are brought back into the fold of the gameplay as well as some of the new mechanic ideas brought in by the previous game.

“Dawn of War III” combines what veteran players of the “Dawn of War” games loved with mechanics combined from both previous game installments to create a new fresh hybrid real-time strategy game. The strength of this game lies with its new take on the real-time strategy platform that for so long has stayed rigid and in recent years has been dwindling. The new hybrid style really makes for some fun gameplay.

Held in the same Warhammer 40K universe as the previous games, this game holds a standard campaign as did the previous titles. The campaign is exciting, holding a true sense for the game’s lore but gets rather repetitive with unit control and stylistic play. The singleplayer aspect of the game is decent but not genre defining or something that really stands out.

The key of a real-time strategy game doesn’t lie within the single player though, the multiplayer is where

it counts. Having a good multiplayer format will dictate the longevity of this game in the years to come as it allows for replayability. In this aspect, it does decently. The mechanics are new with unit and building controls from previous installments coming together that make the multiplayer fun for and exciting for players.

The lack of maps the player can choose from is pretty horrendous, almost guaranteeing they are going to come out with downloadable content content and expansions for the game. This is a little disappointing as it makes the multiplayer as it is right now lacking diversity.

One of the key downfalls of this game, that is almost a standard in new games, is hotkey reassignment. This game for whatever reason doesn’t allow this and is almost unforgivable.

You can only use the default keys to use abilities which in similar games such as “Starcraft 2.” For a 2017 game release, this is unacceptable and needs to be implemented for the future of this games multiplayer content.

The actual gameplay mechanics are designed well and the new graphics make playing visually pleasing as well as controlling well.

Overall, this game is a nice return for the franchise. Though far from perfect, it nicely combines aspects from both previous installments and with new expansions, and could very well end up being a classic played at LAN parties like the real-time strategy games of old.

With new expansions and downloadable content to fix no hotkey customization and map diversity for the multiplayer, the game’s score would be improved.

facebook.com “Dawn of War III” was released April 27.

Entertainment

MAY 9- MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

facebook.com Mac Demarco dropped “This Old Dog” May 5.

The “Guardians” return for volume two

“This Old Dog” has some new tricks Brigitte Maina Asst. A&E Editor

Review

T

he bellowing chords of “Freaking Out the Neighborhood” from a best friend’s car used to be the only welcoming entity to the nightmare that is a high school parking lot. Five years later, it feels just as great to be a Mac Demarco fan. His third studio album “This Old Dog,” released May 5, clouds your Spotify queue with fragile and fervent themes, backed by self-loving and loathing lyrics and jangle-pop, indie-rock tempos.

Born in British Columbia and raised in Alberta, Demarco’s picking skills were discovered early, being in several bands through his high school career. Consistent, self-produced EP’s landed him notice and the eventual development of his debut album “2” in 2012.

His cult following, turned a tad mainstream after Target’s use of “Passing Out the Pieces” in an M&M advertisement, prompted the release of his second studio album, “Salad Days,” “Another One,” his 2015 mini EP, and his third, symbolized by a canary album cover riddled with doodles. The single “This Old Dog,” released in late January, holds like an extension of “My Kind of Woman;” the sea of opportunity is inhabited by plenty of fish, but he’s not in any mindset to recast his line.

“Often a heart tends to change its mind / A new day decides on a new design / This old dog ain’t about to forget / All we’ve had and all that’s next / Long as my heart’s beating in my chest /This old dog ain’t about to forget.”

Whether it’s about his longterm girlfriend or not, Demarco’s primary circle of muse has revolved around the faintly-existent relationship with his

alcoholic, addictive father who marked Demarco as an abandoned child at age five. The album’s first track “My Old Man” sounds as if RAC took their time remixing, but six seconds in, his signature acoustic sound assures. His words mirror the built up emotions felt as his aging reflection stares back at him all too familiarly. Demarco has previously spoken about the nature of their “father-son relationship” and how it isn’t an everyday meeting; but the thought and genetic resemblance of his father is haunting enough to creep into everyday thought.

“Look in the mirror / Who do you see? / Someone familiar / But surely not me /For he can’t be me / Look how old and cold and tired / And lonely he’s become / Not until you see / There’s a price tag hanging off of having all that fun.”

“Baby You’re Out’s” feel good vibe paired with what sounds like a synthesized cowbell, ensures the life you’re living is one to be cherished, celebrated, and is still unwritten.

“What you voice is what will drive your fate / And old things never really got that bad / Dreaming of green grass’ll drive you mad.”

“One Another” pulls the heartstrings while noting that heartbreak makes a decent lesson. His silver lining from breakups reads “In losing love you gain a friend.” He questions his listeners about how broken they were actually left, heard in “Still Beating.” Some loves may fail, but it doesn’t mean they fail.

“Honey, I cried too / You better believe it / Honey, my heart still beats for you / Even though you don’t feel it.”

Demarco’s simplistic yet cutting sound has been a driving force in his more mainstream rise, earning him sets at big-name festivals including Austin City Limits, The Governor’s Ball, Lollapalooza, and Coachella.

Hear “This Old Dog” debut performance at the Greek Theatre, September 8 in Berkeley.

Top three

Page 7

Sean Curzon Staff Writer

Review

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ack in 2014, Marvel surprised everyone by adapting “Guardians of the Galaxy,” an obscure spacebased team that included a tree person and a talking racoon, for a feature film. Many speculated that characters this weird and unknown wouldn’t sell, but being different and strange proved to be an advantage as critics and audiences praised it as something new and different. Groot and Rocket have become household names alongside Spider-Man and the X-Men. So, Marvel brought the team back for a second installment. “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” may not be as fresh as the original, but it’s still a fun ride.

James Gunn returns as writer and director. The film follows the Guardians, hired to protect batteries for the haughty Sovereign in exchange for Nebula (Karen Gillan), sister to Gamora (Zoe Saldana).

But after Rocket (Bradley Cooper) offends them, the Sovereign swears vengeance against the Guardians. They hire Yondu (Michael Rooker) and the former leader of Guardian’s Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) to help hunt the Guardians. The Guardians flee, only for them to run into Quill’s long lost father, Ego the Living Planet (Kurt Russell). Returning to the film is Drax (Dave Bautista) and Groot (Vin Diesel).

They are joined by newcomer, the empathic alien Mantis (Pom Klementieff).

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2” is much more introspective than the first one. While there are action scenes, the

bulk of the film is the characters talking about their relationships with each other.

It still has the witty dialogue and one-liners that you’d expect.

The characters seem to have grown since the first film. Drax has gone from literal minded and super serious to a loud goofball who shares way too much of his personal life. Groot instead of being the gentle giant, is now reborn as a hyperactive child.

The theme of family is very present in this film. Quill tries to come to terms with his new space dad. Meanwhile, his old space dad is trying to comes to terms with his own feelings about Quill, and they aren’t the only ones. Gamora must deal with her violent rivalry with her adopted sister, Nebula. Even Rocket has to be a dad to Baby Groot.

The film is structured differently from the first one as well. The characters are far more stationary this time around as a result of a more character driven narrative. Instead of bouncing around from place to place, looking for or protecting the orb, the film takes place in primarily two locations. It does that thing that sequels like to do and split up the characters.

The story does seem to stall a little bit after the first act. The plot loses most of its momentum after Quill meets his dad.

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” also seems to lose a bit of the novelty of the first one. It’s still great, but it doesn’t feel as original as the first.

The first film had a bit of a 70s aesthetic, mostly with the soundtrack. The second one ramps that up. Not only does a kicking 70s soundtrack return, but it’s accompanied with a strong 70s look. The Sovereign look like they come straight out of a sci-fi movie of that era. While it lacks the freshness of the first, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” is still a hilarious, fun adventure.

facebook.com “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” hit theaters May 5, earning $167 million opening weekend.

songs of the school year Simon Cherin-Gordon Staff Writer

Commentary

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ip-hop is having a triumphant year. Migos’ “Culture,” Drake’s “More Life,” Future’s “Future” and “HNDRXX,” Kodak Black’s “Painting Pictures,” Joey Bada$$’ “AllAmerikkkan Bada$$” and Kendrick Lamar’s “DAMN.” have all dropped in 2017’s first five months. Those albums and more have given us hundreds of songs to consider when discussing the year’s best so far. The genre has reached places where some songs are difficult to define as hip-hop (Drake’s “Passionfruit,” for example), and while those songs are tremendous, they will be excluded from this list to avoid philosophical genre-defining debates. With that said, our nominees will represent the breadth of rap music in 2017.

Collection” (Future, 3. “My produced by Metro Boomin) Future has made his entire career off of the dark spin he’s put on club music. His unique combination of autotune and monotone creates a disparate, drugged-out feeling. It would be extremely depressing, if it wasn’t exactly the vibe that club hip-hop has always been trying to achieve. It's atmospheric, almost ambient.

His album “HNDRXX” is a departure from his trademark style. Melody and emotion play a central role, sometimes successfully, sometimes frustratingly. The album’s greatest triumph is its opening song “My Collection,” in which Future discusses his drug habits and instability in the most vulnerable way he ever has.

Future being open and honest doesn’t inherently make him better. His dissociative vibe is what made him a star, along with his killer hooks and legendary producer, Metro Boomin. It’s the presence of those latter two traits that make the departure so successful.

The punchline element of “even if I hit you once you part of my collection” refrain outdoes that of Future’s biggest hit of the year, “Mask Off,” while Metro’s stylistic switch is just as impressive as Future’s.

“DUCKWORTH.” (Kendrick 2. Lamar, produced by 9th Wonder)

Nominating only one song off “DAMN.” requires some agonizing decisions. But as perfect as every sonic moment of Lamar's introspective, experimental masterpiece is, it’s the album's most traditional rap song that steals the show at the end.

Over multiple beat change-ups that teeter between boom bap and g-funk, Lamar details the life stories of Anthony and Ducky, and where they twice crossed paths: first, when Anthony robbed the KFC that Ducky worked at, and second, 20 years later in Kendrick’s recording studio. The song’s ultimate revelation—that Anthony is Kendrick’s manager and Ducky is his father —is chilling, much like the revelation at the end of “To Pimp a Butterfly" that 2Pac is the one listening to the poem he’s been reading all album. However, it is the impeccable rapping, flow, lyricism and narrative that carry this track. Storytelling without artistic brilliance is preachy and corny; just ask J. Cole.

1.

“Bad and Boujee” (Migos featuring Lil Uzi Vert, produced

by Metro Boomin) Don’t let the carefree, youthful vocals of Quavo and Uzi fool you: These dudes cap rap. Their flows and rhyme schemes may sound simplistic, but that’s only because of the effortlessness with which they deliver them.

Their lyrics might seem whimsical, but their references and double entendres are far from nonsensical. “Uh, yeah, dat way, float on the track like a segway,” Quavo says on “Bad and Boujee.” The absurdness of him comparing his smooth flow to riding a segway is ample, until you consider the meaning of the word “segway” and the following bars more deeply.

That’s all extra, though. The fact is that Migos is playful and fun, and there’s no need to run from that other than to say that they deserve the respect they’ve received across the rap game.

“Culture” is a fantastic project front to back. “Bad and Boujee” is clearly the standout, from the aforementioned killer verses to Offset’s delivery of the hands-down best hook of 2017 (“cookin up dope in the crockpot”) to another mature Metro Boomin beat.

Page 8

Student Life

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

Spotlight: International Education Exchange Council Tyler Heberle Asst. Student Life Editor

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onoma State University students travel both to and from foreign countries. The college hosts international students from places as varied as China, Japan and Germany, while local students flock overseas to study abroad in Europe and beyond.

Students looking for a place where local and international perspectives can converge have an outlet in the International Education Exchange Council. This club provides a place for international and domestic students to learn about other cultural perspectives.

In addition to hosting weekly Thursday meetings in the International Hall, the council hosts activities like hikes and Giants baseball games for its diverse members to experience together.

Hope Ortiz, the International Education Exchange Council’s club advisor, said it has engaged with students from “multiple dozens of countries.”

“Sonoma State students any given semester will go to… 20 [to] 21 various countries around the world,” Ortiz said. “And then we’ll receive students from an additional five to 10 countries.”

Ortiz, who is also the international and exchange programs advisor, said the student-run organization is a “repeated idea” from other campuses, such as San

IEEC PRESENTS

Coffee & Culture INTERNATIONAL HALL 107 NOON

Francisco State University. It’s one of many entities hosted by Sonoma State’s Center for International Education, along with study away programs and the National Student Exchange.

The center also houses the International Ambassador Program, from which “active members in the club” plan its meetings and events, Ortiz said.

“The [International Education Exchange Council] and the ambassadors are the… social glue that holds everything together,” Ortiz said. “They really create an environment and community for these exchange students and our returning students.”

Simone Landis, president of the International Education Exchange Council, said she joined the council before studying abroad in Spain for the 2015 – 2016 school year. She took part in a “mentor-mentee program” through the council, where students who want to visit a particular country can talk with others who have been there before.

Landis said the council and its events change each semester depending on which countries are represented in the community.

“It’s a very diverse club just because we have students from all over the world, which is really unique because outside of [the International Education Exchange Council] you never really notice international students,” Landis said. “I honestly didn’t even know we had as many as we do before joining the club.”

The council’s Thursday meetings, known as Coffee & Culture, are based on various themes that pertain to multiple cultures. At a recent meeting, students discussed how people across the world celebrate Easter, according to Landis.

Previous Coffee & Culture meetings have been centered on occasions like St. Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl, according to community engagement chair Diana D’Alessandro.

These meetings help expose Sonoma State students to a wider cultural perspective, which is helpful for “primarily a Caucasian campus,” Landis said.

“This is a very central place where international students, people from all different backgrounds, come together to share their unique backgrounds and experiences,” Landis said.

Of the council’s many trips, Landis said she most fondly remembers an overnight cabin trip from the fall 2016 semester, when a former member allowed at least 40 council members to stay at his property in the woods. Both incoming and outgoing students took part in this activity.

“We tried to plan one this semester, but since we didn’t have a house that easily available it was a little more difficult and a lot more expensive,” Landis said.

Most council trips require a fee beyond the $3 entry charge required for lifelong membership, but some can be subsidized if the council receives enough financial support from on-campus donations and fundraising, according to Landis.

“We haven’t done much fundraising this semester,” Landis said. “That’s something we’re going to focus on a lot more next year.”

The council is not the only on-campus organiza-

“It’s a very diverse club just because we have students from all over the world, which is really unique because outside of [the International Education Exchange Council] you never really notice international students.” tion to promote communication between incoming and outgoing students. The Sonoma Scouts, which just originated in April 2017, are a series of students who study abroad and convince international students to visit Sonoma State, according to international student coordinator Becky Petrow.

“These students are going abroad anyway… we have people, Sonoma State representatives around the world through our study abroad program,” Petrow said. “Why not utilize them to spread the word about [Sonoma State] and try and encourage more international students to come here and facilitate this cultural exchange?”

Petrow said it is the “best practice” for programs like the council and Scouts to integrate incoming and outgoing students together at Sonoma State.

“Studying abroad is a transformative experience… bringing them into this club is a great way to get them feeling like a part of the community,” Petrow said.

Ortiz said it is important for Sonoma State students from any country to understand “how they do contribute to this community,” and that the council has helped raise this cultural awareness.

“Just by talking to people, you can get a different cultural perspective and understanding,” Ortiz said.

The final Coffee & Culture meeting of the spring 2017 semester will be held May 11.

Commencement ceremony presents new limits Michelle Violetti Staff Writer

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ot only will students graduating in May be embarking on a new journey in their lives, they will be the first to experience graduation at Sonoma State University’s Weill Hall.

The Green Music Center will now host Sonoma State’s Commencement ceremony.

Also new rules will be in place. No alcohol will be permitted during the ceremony and glitter cannot be used in the decoration of ceremony caps.

In past ceremonies, graduates could be seen enjoying champagne straight from the bottle and sharing it among their friends.

According to this year’s commencement standards, there will be a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy at the commencement event. Any graduates who appear to be intoxicated will be directed to the Student Conduct Officer and may not walk the ceremony.

“You should be sober enough to remember your graduation because there’s no point in showing up if you are not going to remember. I think it’s okay for people take pictures [drinking champagne in previous commencement ceremonies], but there shouldn’t be drinking during the ceremony.

Especially in Weill Hall, [since] you can’t drink in there anyway,” said senior Jessica Shipma a communications major at Sonoma State. Shipma is a member of the graduation cap contest committee.

“I was a little bit disappointed because I knew I wanted to bring a bottle of champagne or something like that. But I think it does prevent problems and prevents people from being too intoxicated during the ceremony. I think we’ll all adapt. People are still going to go Friar Tucks Pub for the crawl in the morning and have celebrations. We’ll find [other] ways to celebrate,” said Riley Nichols, a senior communications major.

Weill Hall seats about 1,400 people and that means

that each student will be allowed only two tickets inside. Previously since the ceremony was out on the lawn, there were bleachers to accommodate family and friends.

Now there’s not as much available seating inside the new venue.

To accommodate the students who may have a party larger than two, there will be unlimited seating outside on the grass. No tickets are necessary for outside, but it’s first come first served. Outside audience members can view the ceremony on large jumbotrons with audio.

“I think it’s inconvenient with [only] the two tickets, but also there is no obligation to use the two tickets. So, if your family feels very strongly about sitting outside and sitting together; there are going to be chairs set up on the lawn,” said Nichols.

“I think the two-ticket limit is fair for the first year to try it out. In theory that would mean just your immediate parents would be inside, but there is unlimited seating outside on the lawn. [Due to] the huge TV outside it might be worth it to have your parents not even sit in Weill Hall.

I’ve talked to a few people about this, just because it can get kind of stuffy and hot inside,” Shipma said.

The next significant change is that graduation caps cannot be decorated with glitter. This is due to the venue’s air filtration system. Students who have glitter on their caps, will be permitted inside but without the cap.

“I’m a little sad, my high school graduation cap was decked out in glitter. I’ll have to be using my creative resources and going with a different cap plan,” said Nichols.

sonoma.edu

Pacific Cultural Night highlights student diversity Jade Eriksson Staff Writer

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ast weekend, the 8th annual Pacific Cultural Night was held by the Filipino American Association of Sonoma State University in Pearson Theatre.

FAASSU’s dance subgroup named KAPWA performed multiple dances honoring their culture and embracing tinikling, the national dance of the Philippines. Throughout the night, there were Polynesian dances and other performances incorporating singing and hip hop.

Pacific Cultural Night, held every spring semester, had 12 acts throughout the show. Every year a theme is created for the event, with this year’s being “Eskuwela,” which means school in Tagalog.

The performances included actors playing teachers and students giving historical meanings and background behind the dances of their heritage.

“This is our 8th annual show that is student produced, directed, designed and performed by all members in our organization,” said junior Jessica Amen.

Jessica Amen, majoring in technical theatre, was the head coordinator for the event and the president of FAASSU. The event marked her second year being the coordinator for the show and her third Pacific Cultural Night. Amen was a dancer and choreographer for the tinikling dance. She also performed several dances during prior showcases but this year she took more of a technical approach, acting to stage manage the production.

Last year’s event sold about 400 tickets, and event organizers hoped to sell even more this time around.

There was a total of 40 performers throughout the night. Usually the event is meant to fundraise for the organization, but a portion of this year’s proceeds will be donated to benefit victims of the recent earthquake in the Philippines.

“FAASSU uses this showcase to exhibit traditional dances across the Filipino and Polynesian cultures, while also highlighting the talent and cultural heritage of our members and other multicultural organizations on campus.” said Stacey Smyth.

Smyth, a 22 year-old senior majoring in American multicultural studies and treasurer of FAASSU, will be one of the emcees for the show and perform the dance, tinikling.

She has participated in the event since she was a freshman and this year’s event marked her fifth time participating.

Other performances will be done

by Blue Baronz, Ballet Folklorico and the Tribe, through music and hip hop.

FAASSU is one of the largest multicultural organizations on campus. Even though the organization is Filipino-American focused, anyone of any culture is welcome to join.

Pacific Cultural Night gives students an opportunity to show their culture and diversity through dance and song.

FAASSU meets at noon on Tuesdays in the Sonoma Valley Room in the Student Center.

To contact them, or see more information about the event, visit them at faassu.weebly.com/.

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

Student Life

Vegan options available on campus; just ask Peter Gatembu Staff Writer

Commentary

S

tudents have one area that presents us with a greater challenge than most individuals face in their daily livelihoods, and that’s eating healthy. For instance, some lunchtimes I walk into the Sonoma State University cafeterias and leave without finding anything suitable. As a vegan student, there simply aren’t many options to choose from on campus. Healthy eating nowadays has become an obsession to many people, hence leading them to be more cautious about what they are eating or drinking.

Here at Sonoma State University, it is a requirement that Sonoma State first time freshmen have meal plans, which means that they don’t much of an option other than to eat what’s served by the school cafeteria.

Mashed potatoes, green salad, beef, pizza, fries and chicken are some of the regular options on the menu at Sonoma State..

There is no denying that there’s a variety of options to choose from at ‘The Kitchens’, located on the first f loor of the Student Center. There’s even a vegetarian section including lots of fruit and vegetables to choose from. As a regular student who eats at The Kitchens, I have noticed that there isn’t a section entirely reserved for vegans.

Vegetarians don’t eat meat, fish, or poultry. Vegans in addition to being vegetarian, don’t use other animal products or by-products such as leather, honey, wool or even soaps derived from animals. According to a

survey conducted by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals meat and dairyfree menu items have become one of the hottest things on college cafeteria menus. They surveyed nearly 1,500 four-year colleges.

“The cafeteria includes vegetarian students, but not quite so much of the vegan ones,” said vegan and freshman business major John Mil. “As a freshman with a few years to go, I hope that sooner or later vegan students will have many options just like students who aren’t vegan.”

“The main cafeteria itself has a vegetarian section, but there’s also meat being served in that section too. I have not noticed any vegan section yet,” said Josh Matkins, a freshman business major who has a meal card and eats quite often at The Kitchens.

“We have a vegan section, but it’s not as popular as the vegetarian section,” said Daniel O’Brien, acting chief of Culinary Services at Sonoma State. “Any students with special dietary needs are always catered [to at] Sonoma State. All they have to do is make a request to the culinary department and special arrangements will be made to cater for that particular student.”

Though students have an option to choose what and where to eat, it’s important that Sonoma State students understand that just like UC Davis and University of Washington, our campus offers options for vegan students. Students can request to personally meet with the executive chef, to discuss their diet concerns as well as make a comprehensive plan on what they prefer eating.

Vegan options may not be as accessible as the vegetarian option, but for vegan students in search of a meal, the chance to meet with a chef is too good to pass up.

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Student Life Calendar Thursday, May 11 Zen Zone Noon Seawolf Plaza Toast of the Town 5 p.m.

Trione Courtyard Friday, May 12 Late Nights with Lobo 8:30 p.m.

Lobo’s

Chemistry Seminar Series 12:05 p.m.

Darwin 102 Tuesday, May 16 SYRCE Symposium 11 a.m.

Weill Hall

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Sports

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

Female studentathlete of the year: Rachel Andrews Naaman Hightower Staff Writer

R

achel Andrews is very accustomed to making her team proud, having led the women’s volleyball team to a CCAA semifinals appearance as a senior.

So it’s only right that the senior from Merced accomplished her final feat, capturing Sonoma State University’s Female Athlete of the Year honors at the 2017 Annual Wolfies Award Ceremonies.

“I was just happy to be nominated,” Andrews said. “Then when my name got called, I was a little taken aback. I was shaking so bad.”

Like a true champion, she said she remembered the people who are also a part of her success.

“I wouldn’t have been nearly as successful without my teammates and the coaches,” she said. “All the positive energy and support I got from my teammates really warmed my heart and reminded me of how lucky I was to have such a great group of girls by my side all of these past four years.”

Many of her teammates had positive things to say about her.

“Rachel was always really hard working and did whatever she could to be a leader,” freshmen Hannah Coe said. “I looked up to her and saw someone who was dedicated and passionate about the sport. I hope one day I can play like her.”

Though this was the first time An-

drews won this award, she has won others.

Andrews was named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association Division II All-American team late last year. Leading the entire west region in hitting percentage at a .379 clip, Andrews successfully broke the Sonoma State single-season hitting percentage mark set by herself last year.

Breaking her own record made Andrews reminisce on how she came to choose Sonoma State as her home four long years ago.

“My club coach in high school is friends with Coach Grassl, and that helped me make the connection,” she said. “When I came to the campus for a visit and to practice with the team, I thought the campus was so pretty and not too far from home.”

Andrews said that the winning pedigree and personality of Coach Grassl is what really stuck for Andrews.

“I felt Bear was the exact type of coach I was hoping for. He made me feel very comfortable and I decided pretty much immediately after that I wanted to play for him,” Andrews said.

Though her competitive playing days are over, the environmental studies and planning major said she hopes to make a positive impact on the world.

“I hope to someday work for a company or organization that is passionate about not only helping people but also the natural environment,” she said.

Coach Grassl will surely have some issues replacing her middle blocker next year.

STAR // Megan Corcoran Senior Rachel Andrews helped lead the Seawolves to their impressive 12-6 conference record in the 2016 season.

Seawolves sweep Toros Jake Tucker Staff Writer

T

he Sonoma State University baseball team went out with a bang. This weekend, the team traveled down to Carson to face off in its final matchup of the season against Cal State Dominguez Hills. The series proved fruitful for the Seawolves, as they were able to sweep the Toros in three games.

The first pitch of game one at 12:04 p.m. started the Seawolf sweep, as 122 fans packed into Toro Field to watch the two teams face off. Dominguez Hills struck first, putting up a run in the first inning on an RBI double by junior third baseman Esteban Ortega that plated John Soteropulos. The team scored one more in the home half of the third on a wild pitch by the Seawolves’ starter Haydon Turpin.

Sonoma quickly retaliated in the next half inning with a double into the center field gap by Trevor Abrams that scored Grant St. Martin, followed by another RBI hit by Abrams in the sixth that plated Mitch West. Again in the eighth, Sonoma State scored two runs on a fielding error by shortstop Adrian Guzman that scored Abrams and St. Martin.

St. Martin finished off a great sophomore season with a .300 batting average, driving six balls out of the park and driving in a team-leading 31 runs, after hitting seven home runs and 27 RBI’s in his freshman year. “This was a great way to end the season going out with three good wins,” St. Martin said. “I would like to thank the seniors for everything they have done for the program over their years here, for all of their leadership, and the foundation they have built for next year. The season didn’t quite go the way we would’ve liked, but I wouldn’t want to play next to anybody else besides these guys.”

In the home half of the eighth, the Toros put up their final run on a single up the middle by their catcher, Evan Yeager, that scored pinch runner Brandon Evans, before the Seawolves would tack on one more insurance run on a wild pitch in the top of the ninth.

Turpin threw the first six and a third innings and got tagged with the no-decision despite only surrendering four hits and two runs. “This weekend was bittersweet for multiple reasons,” Turpin said. “Being a senior, it was my last weekend with the team. Pretty emotional weekend for all of us seniors, but nothing is better than winning and we were able to come away with the sweep. Unfortunately, not making playoffs is rough on us all.”

Fellow senior Cody Bennett threw the final two and two-thirds innings en route to his third win of his final season. Bennett finished the year with a respectable 3.52 ERA while gathering three saves and three wins. “It was a really emotional weekend,” Bennett said. “Playing my last game of baseball for my life and just being with the seniors for four years was super emotional. Just played really loose and I think that is why we played so well, but really dedicated a lot of it to the seniors.”

Game two was a very high-scoring affair, as the Seawolves ultimately ended up on top 15-14. The Toros struck first once again, and they struck hard. Ortega began the scoring in the home half of the first with a three-run home-

run to left field that plated Soteropulos and Nick Morelli.

They put up two more later in the first on a single up the middle by Guzman, scoring Daryl Donerson and Parker Hokuf, taking an early five run lead.

Sonoma State answered in the next half inning with three runs of its own. The first was by a run-scoring single up the middle by senior outfielder Daniel Caresio to leftcenter that scored Nicco Toni. Left fielder Alex Emerick followed with a two-run single that plated Caresio and West.

Caresio finished 5-6 in game two of the final series of his career, and finished the season with an impressive .336 batting average. “It was a great year,” Caresio said. “We didn’t get where we wanted this season, but we were always competing and working hard for one another because we were a really close-knit group and loved each other like brothers.”

The Toros added onto their lead with a run in the home half with an RBI groundout by Soteropulos and another in the third on a sacrifice fly by Guzman that plated Donerson.

The Seawolves retaliated in the next half inning with a double down the left field line by Abrams, scoring Emerick and Caresio, bringing the score to 7-5 in favor of Dominguez Hills. The Toros tacked on again in the fourth with three more on an RBI double, an error, and a wild pitch.

The Seawolves kept chipping away. In the top of the fifth, they put up two more runs on a single through the right side by Evan Seidell that scored Bryce Nagata and a sacrifice fly by Emerick that plated Toni.

The consecutive inning scoring streak continued, as the Toros scored one in the following half inning on a run-scoring fielder’s choice, the Seawolves scored one in the following half inning on a solo homer to left field by Nagata and the Toros put up another in the following half inning on an RBI double to the left-center gap by Shawn Sweeney, marking the seventh consecutive half inning with a run scored.

The home run was Nagata’s second of the season. “It was a great way to end the season,” Nagata said. “Even though our season didn’t go as planned, ending it with a sweep was awesome.”

Dominguez Hills tacked on another in the seventh on a run-scoring base hit by Soteropulos, bringing its lead to 13-8, before the Seawolves ran away with the scoring in the top of the eighth. West began the comeback with a single to third base that scored Nathan Mann, followed by another RBI single

by Caresio that plated Nagata.

Joshua Montelongo then singled up the middle, bringing in West, followed by an RBI single to leftcenter by St. Martin that scored Caresio. Abrams kept it going with

a double to right field, scoring Jackson Leslie, and the scoring was capped off with a double down the left field line by Mann that brought in Abrams and St. Martin. The Toros put up a retaliation run in the bottom of the ninth on a wild pitch, but the Seawolves took the victory 15-14.

Matt Stafford earned his first win of the season, while senior Ricky Clark got his fifth save of his final season, finishing the year with a brilliant 1.62 ERA. Game three was less of a struggle for Sonoma State, as it left with the 12-8 victory on Sunday afternoon. Again, the Toros struck first, as Ortega drove in Morelli in the home half of the first on a slow single through the left side. The Seawolves came back quickly, putting up three runs of their own in the next half inning. Montelongo drove in the first two with a homer to left, and Leslie later scored on a throwing error by the catcher.

Dominguez Hills put up another in the second on a run scoring single by Sweeney, before Sonoma State put up a six-spot in the third. Montelongo hit his second two-run homer, scoring Mann, followed by a single up the middle

by Rayson Romero that scored Leslie. Caresio kept the rally going with a triple down the right field line that plated Romero and Toni, and then scored on a single up the middle

by Nagata, bringing the lead in their favor 9-2.

The Toros chipped away at the seven run lead with a solo home run by Soteropulos in the third and a two-run double by Soteropulos in the fourth. Sonoma State padded their lead in the sixth when Nagata scored on a wild pitch and Montelongo drove in Matthew Richards with a sacrifice fly. They put up the final of their 12 runs in the top of the eighth on an RBI single by Mann that plated Nagata. Dominguez Hills put up a good comeback effort in the bottom of the ninth with three runs, but the Seawolves left victorious.

Aldo Severson earned his fourth win of the year, tossing a scoreless inning and a third.

Clark, the team’s closer, finished off the season with a strikeout.

Sonoma State finished the season 24-21 overall and 19-19 in conference play. They have nine seniors moving on, but have built a great foundation with their lower classmen, and are very hopeful for the 2018 season.

Sports Sonoma State rowing team prepares for nationals

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MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

Chad Shaver Staff Writer

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ationals bound! For the second time in their history here at Sonoma State University, the rowing team is headed to Nationals.

The rowing team started in 2003 with 10 students and one professor who saw the potential this school had. Since its start, the Sonoma State rowing team has grown to have a both men’s and women’s varsity and JV teams, with around 50 active participants.

Since this is a club here at Sonoma, its athletes fund it, each one paying around $500. These dues include uniforms for the team, race entry fees, hotel fees and coaches’ payment. sThey also fundraise for other equipment and amenities the team might want or need.

When it comes to fundraising, these men and women not only put in hard work on the water, but put in solid work for the community as well. The Sonoma State rowing teams each year fundraise and give back to the community through Sonoma State. Next year they hope to pair up with a specific non-profit organization which they can fundraise for.

The team currently has four coaches, Khoua Moua, Bob Back and Max Montoya coach the men’s side, and the team recently brought in Becca Weissman to coach the women’s side. All coaches except Weissman attended Sonoma State, and Moua was one of the students that helped start the program. Back, Montoya, and Weissman are all first year coaches here at Sonoma State and have been a huge part in this season’s success, along with Moua, a veteran men’s head coach.

Practices for the team start at 5:15 a.m. and ends around 7:15 a.m. At practice, players train in the water in boats, on row machines, lift weights and endure immense cross training activities to stay in the best shape possible. The team practices five to six times a week. The team carpools, which makes it convenient for players without cars, and heads to Petaluma where they share a boathouse with the North Bay Rowing Club. There are both fall and spring seasons at Sonoma State, and each season has around three to four races depending on what the club feels fits best. They also have around three to four scrimmages which the coaches arrange, putting the season at around seven races. The club also travels, going as far south as San Diego and as far north as Oregon.

This season has been great for the Seawolves, doing their best in a long time.

Last weekend, Sonoma State’s varsity lightweight 8 and lightweight 4 men’s team both took home first place in regionals.

“This sport goes much further than one athlete; all of our hard work and dedication is starting to pay off,” senior and rowing team ex-president Sean Johnson said. With that victory, 10 athletes for Sonoma State will be heading to Georgia for the men’s varsity lightweight 4 and the women’s varsity openweight 4 with one alternate per team.

“I feel like the season has gone well. The team came up with some clear goals this year as far as what they wanted out of the year, not just with the team, but also individually,” Moua said. “It was just a matter of putting all the pieces together to get them to where they wanted to be.”

It has been a great season for the Seawolves and hopefully they can become national champs again. Nationals takes place on the 27 and 28 of May. Go Seawolves!

COURTESY // facebook.com The Sonoma State women’s rowing team members condition on water and land to prepare for their seasons.

2017 Wolfie Award Recipients Dr. Charnofsky Memorial Award: 110% Award: Kaitlyn Haithcock (women’s tennis) Daniel Caresio (baseball)

Taylor Enzler (women’s soccer) Ryan Rohane (men’s soccer)

Angelique Lopez (women’s track and field) Erin Martens (women’s golf)

Ralph Barkey Most Inspirational Award: Topher Taylor (men’s basketball)

Max Nudell (men’s tennis)

SSU Alumni Association Distinguished Student-Athlete Award:

Courtney Seda (volleyball)

Sarah Langley (softball) Eric Alvarado (men’s soccer)

Justin Shluker (men’s golf)

Director’s Award:

Cecilia Sifuentes (women’s soccer)

Dr. Crowley Academic Achievement: Breanne Brett (women’s cross country/ track and field) Sullivan Roche (men’s tennis) Determined Student-Athlete: Jordyn Kearney (women’s tennis) Ryan Rohane (men’s soccer) Newcomer of the Year: Jenny Collazo (softball) Jackson Gion (men’s basketball)

Madison Burroughs (women’s basketball) Jasmine Casillas (women’s cross country)

Dr. Rand Link Leadership Award: Leanna Georges (softball) Seawolves Spirit Award: Carly Gill (women’s basketball) Mitch North (men’s soccer)

Luke Cochran (men’s basketball) Armando Coronel (men’s soccer) Analicia Garcia (women’s cross country)

Freshman of the Year: Teresa Danenberg (softball) Maury Lopez (men’s soccer)

Grant St. Martin (baseball) Sara Van Wagoner (women’s soccer) Jensyn Warren (women’s tennis) Haley Whitbeck (women’s golf) Jordann White (softball)

Nicole Groat (women’s water polo)

Athlete of the Year Award:

Matt Hammonds (baseball)

Rachel Andrews (volleyball) Jimmy Golden (men’s basketball)

Student-athlete compensation is a must Kevin Brill Staff Writer

I

Commentary

am a strong advocate that colleges should compensate student athletes for their commitment to both an education and playing an NCAA sport. Getting a scholarship and going to school for free is the absolute least that the school can do for a player. College is an expensive commodity for everyone, including athletes, and if a school wants an athlete to come play for them, they should receive money so they are able to support themselves while in school.

It’s ridiculous that players cannot get paid is because the NCAA considers them amateurs, and in turn the NCAA considers them amateurs because they are not getting paid. It is an ongoing cycle that won’t stop because the NCAA is monopolizing on all the decisions made. The fact that there are Xbox games that resemble players from different NCAA teams with their actual numbers and names on the jerseys, and yet the athletes don’t get any money for it is absurd. Players cannot get any of the revenue that comes in, because that would be considered a violation of their contract.

Providing student athletes with compensation at a young age would likely ensure that they would be financially aware. This would allow these students to connect with investors whose sole purpose would be to help players make smart and literate financial decisions. Many professional players are not equipped with the necessary financial skills to lead them to success after retirement and instead make poor investments and

indulge in an expensive lifestyle that they cannot afford. Student athletes can break this cycle if they learn early on in their careers and successfully invest and manage funds prior to the pro.

Let’s look at the March Madness NCAA Tournament for example – one of the highest viewed televised sporting events in the country. The NCAA and CBS Sports wrote an $11 billion deal from 2011-2014, which shows the amount of money that the NCAA is renovating in the course of a single month each year.

However, the players who are the stars of this popular sporting event are not even touching the high revenue made from the tournament. Instead, it is going to the members of the NCAA because of the current rules and regulations made by the NCAA themselves.

“Every player on the court tonight should have been paid. Scholarships don’t count. It’s got to be something radical. If you’re playing in a sport that is making millions of dollars – for either your school or the NCAA – you should get a piece of that,” said J.J. Redick, former NCAA athlete and current NBA player for the LA Clippers.

It is shocking that schools do not pay for the medical expenses for surgeries postseason for their student athletes. Over the years, we have seen career-ending injuries that have led to not only serious brain injuries but also in players being paralyzed.

These athletes are sacrificing their physical health to play a game that they love to make it to the professional level.

Unfortunately, many of their careers ended before they had a chance to get started because of injuries that took them out of the game. The NCAA is calling all the shots and must change the rules for athletes to receive proper compensation for their sheer talent and dedication.

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Photo

MAY 9 - MAY 15, 2017

sonomastatestar.com

SSU students showcase work at research symposium

STAR // Alyssa Archerda Graduate student Samuel Bogan explains his project in the field of biology at the Symposium of Research and Creativity on Wednesday in the Student Center ballrooms.

STAR // Alyssa Archerda Jeff Peck, left, and Ben Galper, right, go over aspects of their project.

Get Ahead This Summer!

Enroll in General Education Classes or Course Prerequisites at Solano Community College Registration Begins May 4 www.solano.edu

STAR // Alyssa Archerda Melissa Scott talks about her tracking of rainfall in Sonoma County.