IN THIS ISSUE
Dairy Dishonesty
Intramural Sports
New Cafe Serving Wine
Read one student’s opinion on the unethical practices of those in the dairy industry on PAGE 3
Learn more about the Rec Center’s slate of upcoming intramural sports on PAGE 10
Find out all you need to know about the newest spot to eat on campus on PAGE 8
SINCE 1979
VOLUME 81// ISSUE 1 AUGUST 28 - SEPTEMBER 3, 2018
THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER
@SONOMASTATESTAR
Campus murder goes to trial
ASHLEY GIESEKE
STAFF WRITER
W
hat started out as a normal day at Sonoma State University quickly took a turn for the worst, leaving one young man dead and another on trial for felony voluntary manslaughter. The event took place in May, but with the trial just beginning more details are making their way out. As finals week was beginning and most students were preparing themselves to go home for the summer, Steven John Garcia, 26, was brutally murdered in a dorm room on campus. Tyler Bratton, 20 , stabbed Garcia to death in the bathroom of the dorm in Sauvignon Village on the night of May 13th. The dorm room belonged to student Riley O’Rourke, who was finishing out her freshman year at the university. According to the Press Democrat, she testified that her friend Bratton killed Garcia while trying to defend himself inside the residence. Other witnesses testified that Garcia was indeed an intruder and was forcing his way in to confront O’Rourke. Sophomore Rebecca Wynn, who lived underneath the suite where the murder took place, remembers the night
clear as day. She first heard about the news of the stabbing while she was at dinner with a few fellow students. Her suitemate called her in a panic, whispering that there was a stabbing and to come home. Wynn rushed back to campus and had to sneak through her backdoor because every other entrance was roped off with caution tape with rigorous police activity. “I was completely shocked when it all happened. I didn’t really believe it was true until the news started to report on it.” Wynn went on to say she was glad it wasn’t a Sonoma State student who commited the murder because that would have changed her perspective of the campus so much more. “ The incident did make me think our campus was a bit unsafe, and the saddest part is this wasn’t the first time there was a large police activity in the Sauvignon Village this year,” she said. According to CBS San Francisco, the incident started after O’Rourke let a friend, Rebecca Stjern, live with her, because she was going through a hard time and had nowhere else to live due to a criminal past. Stjern was living in the suite without the universities knowledge and even had a keycard to
Student president removed, vice president steps up AMANDA HADLEY STAFF WRITER
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n June 4, Sonoma State University’s Associated Student Senate announced a new AS President for the 2018-2019 term, Carley Chatterley. Chatterley, the former AS Vice President, was promoted to the position when former AS President Manny Ojeda was removed. Erik Dickson, executive director of Sonoma State, said Ojeda was removed “because he no longer met the requirements for major student government office as outlined by the California State University.” Ojeda won last year’s election on April 10, but never officially swore in as president. Dickson supports Chatterley in her new position, believing she Courtesy // Carley Chatterly is striving to be the best AS President she can be. “All of the AS Carley Chatterly ran for vice president Executive Officers want this year unopposed in last year’s student electo be a year where students feel tions. heard and they are dedicated to making sure students feel listened to and technology and aiding student for valued,” Dickson said. success at Sonoma State. ChatterChatterley says the transition from ley spearheads such efforts, saying Vice President to President has been “sur- she is excited to “be the voice for prisingly easy.” She thanks the staff of the the students in these discussions, Associated Students for mentoring and and see these changes improve the supporting her. quality of students lives.” Chatterley explained in-depth the Students have reacted warmfunction of the student government. “Stu- ly to the recent change. Rebecca dent Government through the Associated Mitchell, a senior Kinesielogy maStudents is here to be the voice and advo- jor, knows Carley Chatterley as a cate for the 9,000 students that attend this friendly face around campus and university. We try to improve the quality through mutual friends. “Carley of student education and life on campus seems like the best fit candidate by passing resolutions, sitting in meet- for this position. She appears to ing with admin, faculty, and staff and de- be an extremely dedicated and momanding change, and sharing the stories tivated student. Sonoma State rethat we receive. We even go as far as going ally needs an Associated Student to Sacramento to lobby on behalf of issues president that has the students affecting our students.” best interests in mind, and Carley Chatterley recognizes the financial clearly has shown her respect for struggle of many students on campus. her fellow peers at Sonoma State “There are many problems facing not just University.” this university but all students pursuing Chatterley would have never higher education and that is the cost. It dreamed of being the AS President isn’t just tuition that students are strug- of her college campus, but wants to gling with but also living expenses. Many make an impact in the short time students are having to decide between she has here. Fortunately, she has buying a book for a class and eating. Along always been in leadership posiwith these challenges there is also a lack of tions with numerous time commental health programs and food afford- mitments and believes she can ability on campus.” Chatterley said. thrive in such environments. “I The Senate has created a four-step just really want every student to policy agenda that includes steps to im- know that I, and all the AS student prove student life on campus. The four leaders, are here for students and steps include ideals such as improving stu- want to know if there is something dent life, creating a better campus experi- they need help with – we are here ence, advancing academic resources and to help students.” Chatterley said.
Sonoma State STAR University Police block off Sauvignon Village following the incident. get in whenever she pleased. According to O’Rourke’s testimony at the preliminary hearing at the Sonoma County Superior Court, her and Stjern had a falling out the night before after going to a party in Santa Rosa. They had gone to hangout with a few friends and O’Rourke said she believes that she was drugged because she got extremely intoxicated. Stjern then left O’Rourke at the friend’s residence and took her car without proper permission. This is was caused the two to get into an argument that led to the fatal stabbing. O’Rourke stated in her testimony that Stjern and Garcia forced their way into the dorm after she had told them not to come back to the residence. After the couple abruptly entered the dorm, Bratton tried to keep the bedroom door closed with his body weight. They were able to gain entry where O’Rourke stat-
ed that Garcia began to choke Bratton which led Bratton to stab him in the leg. The two then continue the struggle into the bathroom where Garcia was fatally stabbed six times. Frightened, Bratton and O’Rourke rushed to the closet laundry room and called for police to come. Police arrived shortly after the call where they arrested Bratton on the spot. Tyler Bratton is now being tried for the voluntary manslaughter of Steven Garcia where he is stating it was all in self defense. Defense attorney Lynette Brown along with Deputy District Attorney Chris Brown, are trying to determine if Bratton was using self defense, but did it in too forceful of a way. After listening to testimony, a judge ordered back in July that Bratton must stand trial to determine his guilt. No further updates have been given.
University makes interim police chief permanent
LUKAS BROWN STAFF WRITER
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fter a nationwide search, Sonoma State University President, Judy Sakaki, has named David Dougherty as the new Chief of Police for the university. Dougherty has worked at Sonoma State’s since 2005. “I initially joined University Police Department as an officer for a variety of reasons, including the opportunity to make Sonoma State University a great place for people to work, learn, live, and visit, and to use my role as a police officer to serve the community.” Now 13 years later, Dougherty has not changed his tune, saying that he applied to be the Chief of Police because of his desire to continue leading the University Police Department while working with the community in support of
student success. “We are fortunate that he is already a familiar presence on campus, having risen through the ranks of the University Police Department as a patrol officer, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, acting chief, interim chief and now chief,” President Judy Sakaki said on the Sonoma State website. Chief Dougherty has served as interim chief of police at Sonoma State University since May 2016 after the former police chief Nathan Johnson left abruptly after stabbing his stepson with a power drill during a domestic dispute in his Hayward home. Johnson was immediately placed on paid leave the day after the altercation with his stepson. see CHIEF on pg. 4
STAR //
Analy Bravo
Chief of Police David Dougherty smiles at his desk. He started at Sonoma State thirteen years ago as a patrol officer.
2 Editorial THE STAR Editorial Board Kendall Grove, Editor-in-Chief Braden Car twright, News Editor Luis Mejia, Opinion Editor Ashley Napier, Ar ts & Enter tainment Editor Haley Kara, Student Life Editor Brennan Craig, Spor ts Editor Alyssa Archerda, Photo Editor Christine Von Raesfeld, Social Media Manager Savannah Lizarraga, Copy Editor Gillian Chaffer, Copy Editor Corinne Asturias, Faculty Adviser Staff Writers Morgan Arancio, Kaylie Boettner, Kelly Britton, Lukas Brown, Madeleine Brown, Nicholas Ceschin, Gillian Chaffer, Mar tin Contreras, Christian Francisco, Alex Funchess, ashley Gieseke, Maria Gulli, Amanda Hadley, Emily Hoffman, Anne Kelso, Mandela Linder, Luis Madrigal, Mariah Maldonado, Emiliana Mar tinez, Carly Olsen, Kathleen Perry, Joseph Piombo, Michelle Ponce, Kailey Priest, Renee Rodgers, Alison Snider, Jennifer Spence, Natalya Swensen, Emily Twisselmann
Photographers Analy Bravo, Michelle Tadlock Natalie Dolan, Jessica Bennett
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AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Prison strike calls for reexamination of system A Nationwide prison strike began on August 21 in response to a prison fight at Lee Correctional Institution in South Carolina earlier this year that ended with seven inmates losing their lives. With prisoners in at least 17 states participating, this strike has the potential to shed light on the vast room for improvement in the criminal justice system. This 19-day strike will go until September 9 and has been said to include labor and hunger strikes. The Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee (IWOC) has taken on a lead role in this strike and gives allies the tools on their website to support the campaign to end prison slavery. The IWOC is a prision-led section of Industrial Workers of the World who strive to end prison slavery with the help of outside allies. Slavery may have been abolished in the United States in 1865 along with the passing of the 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, but the amendment also states that, “neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as punishment for crime whereof the party shall been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States.” This can explain why people in prison can be paid a fraction of what the average worker would make for doing similar, if not the same, work. According to the Prison Pol-
icy Initiative, the highest per hour average wage of a prisoner in 2017 for a regular, nonindustry job was 63 cents and for a correctional industry, state owned business it was $1.41. Recently, during California’s raging wildfires, The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation tweeted how more than 2,000 volunteer inmate firefighters were on scene. The San Diego Union Tribune reported that these volunteer inmate firefighters are only paid $2 dollars a day plus $1 an hour which is extremely low in comparison to other firefighters. These people putting their lives on the line might be inmates, but that shouldn’t discount the value that is placed on their lives when they are working a dangerous environment. Amani Sawari, a spokesperson for the protests, told Vox that, “Every single field and industry is affected on some level by prisons, from our license plates to the fast food that we eat to the stores that we shop at. So we really need to recognize how we are supporting the prison industrial complex through the dollars that we spend.” Inmates are demanding “the prevailing wage in their state or territory for their labor,” but there are other aspects to consider. Inmates do not have to pay for rent, utilities or food in comparison to those earning mini-
mum wage outside of prison. It would seem unfair to offer inmates the same job opportunities as those who are not in prison. Paying inmates minimum or average wage for their labor would require massive budget changes for state-owned correctional industry businesses. This would essentially break down the Prison Industrial Complex, which is described by The Empty Cages Collective as “the overlapping interests of government and industry that use surveillance, policing and imprisonment as solutions to economic, social and political problems.” There should be an understanding that inmates need increased wages since they play an important part in many industries, but that their wages should not parallel minimum or average wage. This wage increase would have to be budgeted and would not be immediate. Many other demands made by the prisoners are related to budgets and systematic racism within the system itself. Unfortunately, their list of demands cannot be met overnight and would take legislative action and systemic change to achieve. According to the IWOC website, “it will take a mass movement - inside and out - to abolish prison slavery.”
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Editor’s Pick This week’s can’t miss article:
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.
“Dairy industry’s dishonesty comes at a cruel price” Gillan Chaffer sheds light on the “Got Milk?” advertisments you’ve seen since childhood.
Read the review on page 3
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Opinions expressed in the STAR are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the STAR or SSU. The editorial reflects the views of the STAR Editorial Board on issues it considers to be of particular relevance to the campus community.
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Opinion 3
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Recruitment season brings high stress and standards EMILY HOFFMAN STAFF WRITER
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ecently, a fraternity member mentioned how lucky I was to be a girl, because I did not have to go through his rush process. Guys must prove themselves all semester long and endure numerous challenges they would see trouble for if they said out loud. Sororities only hold formal recruitment for one weekend. After that, new girls are immediately accepted, sing songs, and dance towards the sunset together. Everybody knows fraternity pledging is not exactly peaceful. “No hazing,” the slogan goes, but one way or another, pledges give up a part of themselves or their lives in an undesirable way to prove their worthiness. Each fraternity is different, but it is common knowledge that those guys have to somehow earn their title as an active. Pledges must be willing to do whatever it takes to whatever degree that
may mean for their fraternity. Only then will they be accepted, and only then can they take back whatever it is they had to give up in the first place. There is a reason rush is like this for guys. Men create identity by proving themselves. They create bonds by proving themselves together, and it often looks rough to the outside eye. According to Emily Shapiro of ABC News, back in 2017, 18 Beta Theta Pi members from Penn State University faced charges for the death of a rushee due to hazing. We shake our heads and wonder how an organization can promote such brutality and offensiveness, until we shake our heads and realize that it was Hitler who the recruited Nazis for a cause seen so offensively for the modern day. Too bad it was not then. At the time, men came together for the purpose of making what they believed was something great for themselves and their country. Likewise, fraternities come together to accomplish common goals as a group, just like what
#MeToo backlash proves to spare neither art nor artist KASEY WILLIAMS
STAFF WIRTER
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ver the last year, Kevin Spacey went from opening blockbuster-level films, like “Baby Driver’s” $20.5 million opening weekend, to opening films that would not even drain the bank account of the average college student. That point could probably be traced back to October 2017, when the #MeToo Movement took the planet by storm. Spacey’s “Billionaire Boys Club” opened to a complete mauling by critics and a paltry $618 on its opening weekend, including just $126 on opening day. That is not a typo. Variety critic Peter Debruge called it, “the kind of dumbed-down, West Coast, wanna-be “The Wolf of Wall Street” that gives ‘derivatives trading’ a whole new meaning.” A myriad of factors play into how a film performs on its opening weekend, but in this instance, one can ascertain that the influence of the #MeToo Movement had a lot to do with it. Spacey, as you may recall, has been accused by over a dozen men of sexual harassment or assault, leading as far back as 1985 when he made unwanted advances toward then 14-year-old actor Anthony Rapp. Spacey was 26 at the time. A big question that begs to be addressed alongside #MeToo is whether we can separate the art from the artist. Actually, this question has existed since the dawn of art itself, but now more than ever, we have been witness to dozens of critically-acclaimed and/or prominent figures’ downfalls. Harvey Weinstein, Bryan Singer, Matt Lauer – the list goes on and on. Most of their careers, as you could imagine, have all but ended, and rightfully so. The question has always been a controversial one to answer; even tricky in today’s realm. It would be nice to declare a definitive “yes” or “no,” but, as with most things it is a lot more complicated. For me, I would argue for circumstantial exceptions. It is not as if I will no longer watch a Weinstein or Miramax-produced film like “Pulp Fiction” or “Good Will Hunting,” because Harvey Weinstein produced them. Those are extremely important works within cinematic history and cannot be ignored simply because Weinstein funded them and his name appears in the credits. Nor will I skip a screening of “The Usual Suspects” or “LA Confidential” simply because Kevin Spacey was involved. That said, Bryan Singer was behind the camera for the former, so I may find it hard to revisit for the time being. It is important to note that these films, as with all films, are the collective work of often hundreds of individuals and dozens of companies. They do not deserve to be forgotten simply because one member of the cast was, or became, a sexual predator, more than likely unbeknownst to any involved at the time of production. A few weeks before “Billionaire Boys Club” opened, “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” opened to the largest opening weekend in franchise history and is well on its way to surpassing all totals for previous installments thanks to overwhelmingly positive reviews and fan reception. Tom Cruise, not a stranger to negative press coverage over the last decade, has managed to get audiences in seats in spite of all that. So, are we able to separate the art from the artist? Circumstantially, I think yes.
abc.net.au Scene from Spacey film, “Billionaire Boys Club.”
Hitler and his followers thought they were doing. Dakin Andone of CNN states that, “the costs pale in comparison to the potential benefits, which include prestige, a more active social life and a social network that could help students later in life.” So, it should not be fair that sorority rushees only have to go through pain, stress, and life altering for a few days, right? Sororities promote unconditional acceptance and ensure that they market themselves as such. That is why girls show how desirable they are by making themselves appear so perfect that sororities would be silly not to offer them a bid. It does not matter how willing they are to dedicate themselves, except for how they wear it on their face and speak through their lips, because after all, they only have three days to convince actives of their worth. Think of it like this: in one scenario, potential new member Susan has all the qualities an active could ask for. It
ends up not mattering, because her GPA is a 3.2 and Sally’s is a 3.7, so Susan gets dropped and that is that. Such a vicious cycle dictates the whole weekend. According to Abigail Sullivan Moore of The New York Times, Indiana University had near 1,800 girls signed up for rush. Of those 1,800 girls, 800 did not end up affiliated. Girls thinking about the perfect sorority cannot get their hopes up. Every rushee hopes for the perfect one too, and tries to be perfect enough to show they are right for it. An organization’s responsibility is to ask questions and narrow girls down so that they all end up where it best suits them. When girls show up as themselves, they end up exactly where they are meant to. For those that cannot show up as themselves under recruitment’s pressure, they will end up somewhere where they can. Everything does happen for a reason, even if it looks ugly on the outside. With rush, the grass is always greener on the other side.
Reality television’s deception poses dangerous influence NATALYA SWENSEN STAFF WRITER
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he topic of social media’s negative impact on society’s youth is recurring, but what about reality TV? The dependency we have on social media and the inf luence reality TV plays in many of our lives is growing rapidly. Society is obsessing over which of the Kardashians is the sexiest, wealthiest, or got the most plastic surgery, but what does that say about our society as a whole? The Kardashians, for example, are famous for a sex tape and being rich. Yes, that definitely sounds like a group of role models for young girls to look up to and aspire to be. According to Holly Peak, reality TV gives children a false idea of what the real world is like. Reality shows are deceiving right off the bat, the name itself is a complete hoax because the shows are edited. These TV shows manipulate the viewers into believing that everything occurring in the show is honest and true when in reality scenes and conversations are edited in order to make the show more dramatic and
engaging. People fixate on these celebrities’ lives, but it is unclear as to why. According to Jesse Hicks from Penn State News, this popularity of reality shows stems from the audience feeling included in all the action, but that is only one reason for its popularity. Reality shows are appealing to many because they are dramatic, thought to be realistic, and addictive to watch. According to the Charles McCoy of The Washington Post, many people that watch trashy reality shows are actually embarrassed to be watching them, but cannot seem to stop themselves. The common word for this is a “guilty pleasure,” and we all have them. That being said, it is not a bad thing to have guilty pleasures necessarily, as long as one does not cross the line to addiction. The concept of wanting to be accepted on social media and wanting to be a part of the action in a TV show go hand-in-hand. Instagram models like Kendall Jenner, Cara Delevingne, and Gigi Hadid all have things in common. They are thin, beautiful, and famous, and they inf luence the
way their followers think about beauty standards. That is where our youth’s need for acceptance on social media stems from. A popular style that was introduced through social media is the perfect body, which includes huge butts, breasts, lips, yet a tiny waist. This look promotes plastic surgery for many women because this body shape is nearly impossible to have naturally. Of course people have the right to do what they choose with their bodies, but would so many people want to change if they were not so obsessed with acceptance and wanting to look like others? Reality shows are not all bad. America’s Got Talent, for example, is family friendly. It is made for entertainment without promoting drinking, sex, and other acts that many other shows allow. For some, reality TV and social media can act as a distraction from everyday life, in a way to live vicariously through others. It can act as an escape from the real world, but watching reality TV is not the best way to escape. It is a waste of time and typically people watch because they have too much time on their hands.
Dairy industry’s dishonesty comes at a cruel price GILLIAN CHAFFER STAFF WRITER
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he dairy industry is lying to you. Companies like Horizon, Foster Farms, and Nestle are using fear tactics and images of happy cows to persuade you into believing that milk can be beneficial. Not only are these companies being manipulative, but they also lie to consumers. “Got Milk?” advertisement campaigns have promoted dairy as a way to strengthen bones and increase calcium intake with no scientific proof. The government has paid its way to have milk added to school nutrition programs. This industry will do anything that it can to sell more product. Many individuals do not know what goes on behind the scenes — and once it is found, consuming dairy will become less appealing. Dairy is in no way healthy for humans; in fact, studies prove otherwise. Milk contains high levels of calcium, but so do other foods, like soy products and vegetables. Dairy is not going to benefit your body, a healthy lifestyle will. However, the media pushes that cutting milk out of your diet can be detrimental and cause bone thinning. But according to Joe Loria from Mercy For Animals, “populations that consume the most
cow’s milk and other dairy products have some of the highest rates of osteoporosis and hip fractures.” Cows are given hormones to make them bigger for more production. According to Care2 Causes’ Natalia Lima, “many farmers give them growth hormones, which lead to today’s cows producing about 10 times more milk per day than they did a few decades ago.” Not only have these hormones been linked to cancer, dairy products have sugar additives for taste, which can lead to obesity and an overall decline in health. Cow’s milk is made for calves-- animals that will soon weigh half a ton-not for humans wanting to maintain their weight. In Harvard’s School of Public Health article discussing the worst foods to consume, cheese and dairy products were on the top of the list. Since a calf stops nursing around the one year mark, the mother will no longer be able to naturally feed her young or produce milk. So, the dairy industry artificially inseminates them. Semen from bulls is taken and placed into an instrument used to impregnate the female cow. The cow is then placed in what is called a “rape rack,” and is impregnated. These “rape racks” are long de-
vices that hold a cow in place so she cannot move away, holding many cows and usually exercised on multiple animals at once. This process is performed every year. After the cow stops producing milk, they are retired by the company. And no, this does not mean they get to finally see a nice green pasture. All dairy cows are also used for meat. Once they die from physical exhaustion or illness, they are sent to the slaughterhouse. Dairy companies want customers to believe that cows are treated ethically, but in reality, these animals are abused by the industry. Fifty percent of cows will suffer from udder infections which cause milk to become infested with bacteria, and plenty of them are alive when they have limbs amputated, PETA reports. These animals only live for a few years, even if they should be living for over 20. Being meat or dairy-free certainly takes a lot of self-control. However, cutting more of it out of your diet can have trememdous health benefits. Granted, one person going vegetarian or vegan is not going to change the treatment of these animals; fighting back against this sadistic industry only interested in money will.
4 News
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
University raises price of parking permit
portation and Parking Services at Sonoma State said, “This is the first time we have raised parking permit rates in 15 years. They were last raised when lots L, M, N and O, located by the Green Music Center, were built.” Varnadore also explained how the Transportation and Parking Services came up with the increased price tag. “We looked at total costs of maintenance and repairs on parking lots, roads and update lighting as new technology becomes available over the next 10 years as well as taking in the average parking permit cost for STAR // Braden Cartwright all Cal State Universities.” When asked why reserved parking wasn’t raised, Parking is a top issue for students at Sonoma State, where 3,100 of the Varnadore said, “We have sold out of 9,408 students live on campus. reserved permits the last couple semesters “a self-support program, which means LAURIE KELSO and with the limited inventory of reserved STAFF WRITER that we cannot use general fund or tuition parking we did not feel that increasing the revenue to fund parking construction, oprate would have a substantial impact on revonoma State’s administration has erations or maintenance. Your purchase enue.” Reserved parking permits currently raised the general and motorcycle of a semester or daily permit enables the cost $260. parking rates for Fall and Spring 2018 se- University to build and maintain the lots Part of this five year plan is already mesters in efforts to improve the quality and roadways and to purchase supplies underway. Lot E, a general parking lot near of the parking lots and roadways through- and equipment necessary to operate the Person Theatre and Ives Hall, had been unout campus. program.” der construction during the summer and The university has developed a fiveThe previous cost of a general parkopened for student and faculty use when year plan, projected to cost around $2.8 ing pass was previously $94, and has been classes started on August 20. The lot now million. The university explained in an raised to $104. Megan Varnadore, the has a repaved roadway, better defined parkemail sent on July 31, that the parking is Parking Operations Manager of Transing spaces and updated lighting structures.
S
CHIEF: Visible and proactive policing pmportant continued from pg. 1
Johnson, who had been the Chief of Police at Sonoma State University since 1999, did not to return to the police force. In recent years, Sonoma State University has experience a couple tragedies, including a dead body found buried on campus and an individual being stabbed to death within the living community. Dougherty responded to these crimes saying, “University Police Department strives to provide a high level of visible, proactive and supportive service to the students, faculty, staff and visitors.” The chief has experienced many tragic incidents within his profession that gives him the ability to lead at high stress moments. Dougherty said that he will continue to partner with the community and other law enforcement agencies to work together and collaborate to resolve mutual issues within respective communities. Dougherty will now lead the largest campus-based police force in Sonoma County. With over 270 acres to cover on Sonoma State’s campus, near-
ly 10,000 students and more than 1,500 faculty and staff, Chief Dougherty will direct his team of eight officers to keep the campus safe. “I am honored and humbled to serve as the Chief of Police for Sonoma State University and will continue to work collaboratively with my team and others to provide visible, proactive and engaged police services to the community,” Dougherty said. Dougherty is qualified to take on the new position with eight years of working in management in the private sector. He is trained in a range of areas including staff development, media relations and budget coordination. He said he is excited to get out from behind the desk or steering wheel of a police vehicle and spending time engaging in the community. “Chief Dougherty is respected for his work in building relations and collaboration among individuals and groups throughout the university. We are fortunate to have a chief who is dedicated to community policing.” Joyce Lopes, the Vice President for Administration and Finance, said on Sonoma State’s website.
The email from the university said that the money will “meet the short term and long term needs of the campus and, at the same time, will help build parking reserves to enable the campus to increase parking capacity without further drastic fee increases.” Students have been hesitant about where exactly the money is going. Cassy Mackinen, a fourth-year student who has been purchasing general passes for the past three years, is weary of the change. “It feels unfair paying more money for something I’m not even going to be able to enjoy,” Mackinen said. “Sure, Lot E looks a lot nicer, but they didn’t even make more parking spaces. I still struggle to find parking every morning. I think the students would really appreciate the money to go towards more spaces, not just the quality of the lots.” Varnadore addressed the issue of making more lots and parking spaces. “The increased revenue allows for much needed deferred maintenance and repair of parking facilities that was not possible at current revenue levels as well as new lighting, pedestrian flashing lights and repaired roadways. Anticipating the expansion of student enrollment over time, new parking lots will need to be built and Parking would like to have a healthy reserve for when that time comes,” she said.
NEWS IN BRIEF Jacksonville Two people were killed, with additional injuries, at a Madden torunament in Florida after a lone gunman opened fire. The shooter, who was playing in the tournament, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Washington D.C. Former Donald Trump lawyer Michael Cohen plead guilty to breaking campaign finance laws after admitting to paying off two women during the 2016 campaign. Cohen said the illegal payments, made at the direction of Trump, were to keep the women from talking about their affairs with the then candidate.
Hawaii Hurricane Lane drenched Hawaii with 3-4 feet of rainfall, hitting the state with flash floods in one of the rainiest weekends in U.S. history.
Washington D.C. John McCain, U.S Senator, former naval officer and presidential candidate, died on Saturday at 81.
CAMPUS CRIME Crime
Date
Auto Burglary
August 21-23
Property Damage Hit & Run
August 23
Vandlalism Graffiti
August 24
Sexual Assault
August 24
Peeking while Loitering
August 25
Failure to Appear/ Warrant
August 26
Location Parking Lot R3 Parking Lot R6 Carson Hall Restroom Off Campus Sauvingnon Village University Square
Status Open Suspended Open Suspended Gone on Arrival Arrest
News 5
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
School of Arts and Humanities hires new dean D
r. Hollis Robbins is Sonoma State UniverMANDELA LINDER sity’s new Dean for Arts and STAFF WRITER Humanities. Dr. Robbins has a B.A. from Johns Hopkins, a Master of Public Policy from Harvard University, M.A. in English from the University of Colorado and a Ph.D in English from Princeton University. Dr. Robbins previously taught at Johns Hopkins University, where she had received several teaching awards, including “Alumni Association Excellence In Teaching.” She was inducted in June 2018. She began her journey at Johns Hopkins as a 16-year-old undergrad on a math scholarship, so when she returned in 2006 as an instructor she enjoyed coming back to her roots. “It was nice to teach where I had gone to school,” she said. “I wasn’t a great student I should say. I partied a little bit too much, I skipped too many classes, I didn’t ask my teachers often enough for advice.” She uses her experience as an undergrad to relate to undergraduate students she works with today, encouraging them to seek advice, ask questions and to get to know the faculty and staff. One of the reasons she likes Sonoma State, besides the beautiful campus, is the opportunity students have to interact with administration because of the small campus population. Dr. Robbins chose Sonoma State because she was interested in the advantages of the publicly funded system. She feels that every student deserves to have a great education at a reasonable cost, something that the students at Johns Hopkins University were not offered. “These students were going to be artists and musicians, and they were going to be graduating with upwards of $100,000 in debt. That’s an enterprise that I just couldn’t continue with,” she said, “Sonoma State
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Dr. Hollis Robbins writes books, articles and poetry. has the potential to be a national leader in publiclyfunded education.” One of her main goals is to create what she calls, “outward excellence” at Sonoma State: that is, to pres-
ent the best version of what we are to the general public. She said, “We should reflect the excellence that we have here at Sonoma State. We have an excellent faculty, excellent staff, and excellent students. That means striving for excellence and putting forward in front of the public excellent work.” She plans to be here at Sonoma State long-term – as long as President Sakaki will have her. She believes her plans to achieve “outward excellence” and the length of her career at Sonoma State are both long-term. As Dean, Dr. Robbins supports the faculty in 10 departments, “so that the faculty can do the best work supporting the students.” Her ability to create programs, promote collaborations, and provide a vision, all while keeping in mind the fact that this is a publicly-funded institution will benefit the department. “I’m never going to forget that it’s the taxpayers who are paying our salary,” she says. “They deserve the most bang for their buck.” She keeps this in mind while preparing to make difficult decisions, asking herself what is ethical and if it “serves the interests of the taxpayers.” In her spare time, Dr. Robbins enjoys writing. She is currently writing a book titled “African-American Sonnet Tradition: Forms of Contention.” Her poetry has been published in literary journals. She also enjoys watching 10 movies per month. She enjoys fashion as an art form, especially when it comes to shoes. “A woman who chooses to wears high heels should never complain that they hurt her feet,” she said. Other members of staff are excited to have her here at Sonoma State. “Dr. Hollis Robbins is a dynamic leader and an accomplished scholar. She is wholly committed to student, faculty, and staff success, and I am thrilled to welcome her to Sonoma State,” Provost Lisa Vollendorf said.
“Thicker Than Smoke” event raises $189,000 for fire victims MARIAH MALDONADO STAFF WRITER
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ver 2,300 people attended the “Thicker Than Smoke: An Evening of Community Storytelling” event during the weekend of Aug. 3 here at the Green Music Center. This was a two-night event that showcased the stories of those affected by the fires that raised $189,000, which was donated in support of fire victims. Sonoma County is still attempting to recover from the blazes; families are still searching for living arrangements and looking to piece their lives back together. “Thicker Than Smoke: An Evening of Community Storytelling” came as an idea around November 2017, almost immediately after the fires. It was originally planned for the summer, allowing ample time for the event to be planned properly. Friday evening, Aug. 3, was filled with the storytelling of 10 victims who were affected during the Sonoma County fires in Oct. 2017. These devastating fires, which began on the night of Oct. 8th, created a path of destruction through the county. Sonoma State students were eventually told to evacuate campus for their safety due to the rapid spread of the fires and the air quality. Fourty-three lives were lost, over 6,200 homes were destroyed and the cause still remains under investigation. Executive Director of the Green Music Center Jacob Yarrow explained, “The first night was a night of healing and shows the progress those are making to get to the next chapter of their lives.” Yarrow shared that is been a busy and active year on campus. Taking on his new role, he expressed that the best role that the Green Music Center can play is not only on our campus, but in our surrounding community as well. The 2017-2018 school year was Yarrow’s first full year as executive director and was faced with the challenge the fires posed that affected our entire region. Yarrow continues to work hard in service at the mission of Sonoma State University. The second night, Aug. 4, featured actress Bonnie Hunt, known for films such as “Jumanji” and “Jerry Maguire,” and country performer Brad Paisley, who donated their time to this event. Hunt and Paisley both held a personal connection through their friends that endured the fires. Paisley, whose father was a firefighter, had his own home threatened in the Santa Barbara fires in December 2017, which were also known as the Thomas Fires. The Thomas Fires burned through Montecito, which is home to many celebrities. With high winds, mandatory evacuations, and a state of emergency issued, these fires fell similar to those experienced in Sonoma County. Sonoma State senior Ella Haberman was intrigued after hearing about the event through work and was able to attend the second evening with her parents. Haberman explained that her parents had been trying to attend an event before she graduates and felt the need to take part in this one, because of the endeavors that Haberman had gone through as a student living here during the fires. The second day of the event was described by both Haberman and Yarrow as ‘impactful’ and ‘powerful.’ Paisley came off as a seasoned veteran that took the intimate space to his advantage. He was not there to self-promote, but to remind and acknowledge throughout the show why everyone was there. Habermann described one of her favorite parts of the evening: “Brad had asked, ‘Can we all stand up if you have been affected by the Sonoma Fires or are a first responder?’ and it hit home for me that this turned lives upside down. People were hurting, but they had a community rallied behind them.” She was able to walk away from the concert with appreciation and gratitude for the amount of selflessness that filled the room that night. Many Sonoma State students had to lean on each during this time of terror. Most had to evacuate to a classmate’s home nearby, stranded by
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Press Democrat
Top: Brad Paisley performs an intimate concert for fans at the Green Music Center. Bottom: The crowd takes in the country singer’s performance. the fires. Senior, Maddie McGrogan, who is from Napa Valley, couldn’t find an entrance to get to her home in Napa and was taken to Sacramento with one of her new sorority sisters. McGrogan expressed her appreciation for her sorority sister and her family, “They opened their home to me when I couldn’t go to mine. I sat in their living room, watching the fires spread to the places I loved most, they sat with me, giving me support and shelter.” The proceeds of $189,000 were donated to the Sonoma County Resilience Fund that offers support to those affected by the wildfires for the years to come. When asked what the Green Mu-
sic Center offers to Sonoma County as a whole Yarrow explained, “The Green Music Center is a place to convene multiple communities and present a whole array of performances.” The Green Music Center has had strong ticket sales during their summer concert series, Summer at the Green. The events left include “Taste of Sonoma,” Sept. 1, “An Evening with Lyle Lovett and his Large Band,” Sept. 8, and “Tower of Power,” Sept. 22. They also offer free movies with “Avengers: Infinity War” on Aug. 25 and “Black Panther” on Sept. 7. Tickets can be purchased both online and in the box office. Although there are no further fire relief events planned Yarrow said that, “We have the potential to build a sense of community with these events.”
6 Arts
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Theatre season kicks off audition season
Alison Snider STAFF WRITER
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ith murder, mania, music and more, theatre lovers have already started the beginning of the semester with auditions for Sonoma State University’s 2018-2019 season. The theatre season consists of Woyzeck and Mr. Burns, A Post-Electric Play during the Fall semester and Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street during Spring. Auditions were held on Aug. 23-24 from six to ten in Ives Hall, with callbacks on Friday, Aug. 24, for Woyzeck and Mr. Burns and Saturday, Aug. 25, for Sweeney Todd. As Mr. Burns director and Theatre Arts professor, Alexis Macnab, hurried straight from her Wednesday afternoon Freshman Learning Community course to audition, she said that she “can’t wait” for auditions to begin. “I’m thrilled to be heading to auditions. I’m so excited to see the talent pool at Sonoma State University for the first time.” It is Macnab’s first time directing a mainstage production on campus. On the other side of the audition process, Nate Nolen, a freshman Early Childhood Studies major prepared for his audition late Wednesday afternoon, saying that he was “scared, but excited. Anxious.” According to sophomore Music Education major, Alexandria Alonzo, the audition process was about 10 minutes in total. She was “surprised” to go down to the audition room in a group and wait off stage to go one by one. When entering the stage, Alonzo handed the staff accompanist, Yvonne Wormer, stated her name, the shows she was auditioning for and her preferred roles. After the audition, Alonzo said, “ It just wasn’t as scary as I thought it was going to be.”
Considered to be the first modern play, Woyzeck by Georg Büchner is a German drama written between 1835 and 1837, inspired by a real case of a man executed for the murder of his wife. Published after Büchner’s death, it is unclear in which the order of the scenes in Woyzeck are meant to be performed. This leaves room for the director and actors to experiment with the text as a series of occurrences, rather than a set and definitive timeline. According to the Sonoma State Theatre Arts & Dance audition website, the cast of eight to ten actors will learn various roles and each be expected to take on the titular role for some scenes throughout the performance. After the electricity in the United States goes out, a group of apocalypse survivors gather around a campfire and attempt to recall a specific episode of The Simpsons. Mr. Burns, A Post-Electric Play by Anne Washburn is a dark comedy in three acts that explores the relationship between popular culture and its importance in civilization through the evolution from theatre to ritualistic performance. From the Theatre Arts & Dance website’s description of the play, “Mr. Burns asks: What are the stories we tell in our darkest hours? What are the ones we need to tell? What stories are we telling now that keep us alive, whether we know it or not?” Based on the Victorian Penny Dreadful series, The String of Pearls, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a musical by Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler that follows the story of a murderous barber, Sweeney Todd, and his quest for revenge against the corrupt, and equally twisted, Judge Turpin. According to the stageagent.com synopsis of the show, “The musical score for Sweeney Todd is lush, operatic, and full of soaring beauty, comedy and stunning terror. It is one of the signal achievements of the American musical theater of the last fifty years.” While auditions have concluded, those interested in seeing the 2018-2019 season can see Woyzeck from
Oct. 4 - Oct. 13 in Ives Hall 119, Mr. Burns from Oct. 31Nov. 4 in Evert B.
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“Crazy Rich Asians” is a box office success Review
KATHLEEN PERRY STAFF WRITER
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ased on the 2013 novel by Kevin Kwan, the film “Crazy Rich Asians” broke records in box-offices as audiences gathered to watch an all-Asian cast portray Asia’s elite. The story comes to life on screen as the audience follows Rachel Chu, played by Constance Wu, on her trip to meet her boyfriend Nick Young’s, played by Henry Golding, family who she later learns is one of the richest families in Singapore. Audience members laugh and cry as they follow the uncomfortable family tension that all families can relate to.
The movie premiered the weekend of August 17, bringing in $25.2 million. Viewers filled seats, not knowing where the movie would take them as it began with a scrapbook-like animation. From the introduction to the teaser at the end, audience members were not disappointed. “Crazy Rich Asians” jumps in by introducing Rachel, an NYU professor, who was raised by her single mother, and Nick, one of the biggest bachelors from one of the most wellknown families in Asia. On their arrival into Singapore, Rachel discovers that Nick is from a wealthy family and they do not approve of Nick’s “average” girlfriend. The romantic comedy touches upon many stereotypes while it also educates viewers on Asian culture. It remains funny while also dealing with deeper subjects and relationships along the way. It shows the other side of the world what is modern in Singapore, while remaining relevant and relatable to its foreign audiences..
This film presents two worlds becoming one as the protagonist has to realign her American culture to her Asian culture. Rachel, who is an American-born-Asian, or “ABC,” is thrown into a different world when she lands in Singapore and finds herself in the middle of old-money and different traditions. She is told that she is a banana: yellow on the outside and white on the inside. The audience follows her as she tries to transition from her small-family and average-income world into a world where people call their elders “aunties” and wear millions of dollars worth of clothing in million dollar homes. While on the surface, the storyline seems washed out - boy meets girl, they fall in love, and someone’s mother forbids the relationship - the director Jon M. Chu uses his $30 million budget and creative plot twists to make the movie new and interesting. The scenery, culture and cast are different. Based on the record amount of people who bought tickets to this romantic comedy, different was exactly what people wanted. Not only did the film break records for tickets sold, it also is the first Hollywood blockbuster film to have an all-Asian cast in 25 years. Furthermore, the cast was not made of Asian stereotypes, but rather were just regular character types that are found in a romantic comedy film. There was no super-smart Asian character, or any karate masters in the way
other films have portrayed Asian characters in the past. Although, one scene that gives into Asian stereotypes by ringing a large gong, Rachel questions why Nick’s aunty owns it in the first place. Rather than paint a cast of stereotypes, Chu instead created the typical characters while also bringing in aspects of Asian culture. There was an evil mother, a loud cousin, a traditional grandparent, and a few supportive cousins all the character types that would be found in any other movie about a family. Chu took people who are typically considered “others” in western film and culture and presented them as relatable people that all viewers know in their own lives. He did not just make another movie full of stereotypes and call it diverse, but really tried to show diverse people simply being people. Audience members clapped and wiped their tears as the lights came back on at the close of the movie. After watching Rachel trying to succeed in proving herself to all of Nick’s family and friends, there is a bit of a teaser for a sequel. After weeks of speculating, the Warner Bro. team told The Hollywood Reporter that they do plan to move forward with the rest of Kwan’s trilogy. The second movie, China Rich Girlfriend, follows one of Nick’s cousins while also giving updates into Nick and Rachel’s life.
“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” just another teen romance? Review
Mariah Ponce STAFF WRITER
To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before: heart fluttering, heart breaking and humorous all wrapped up within one hour and thirty-nine minutes. The Netflix original is a perfect mix between romance and comedy, making it light hearted for young adults to enjoy. As the title suggests, it is a love story between two high schoolers. After indulging in this romantic comedy, I couldn’t help but admit that I was captivated in this teenage romance. I personally would rate the Netflix original three out of five stars. The main character, Lara Jean, is a high school student that describes herself as “invisible.” She finds herself in a situ-
ation she never expected to be in: her five secret love letters mysteriously get sent. Of course, like most teenagers, she believed it was the end of the world because two of the five love letters were received by two important boys. Josh, the ex-boyfriend of Lara Jeans oldest sister, Margot, who Lara Jean has always had a crush on. As well as Peter, the dreamy jock causing a complicated love story. A panicked kiss between Peter and Lara Jean kicks off the movie, creating a relationship based off lies and rules. The situation was not ideal, leading to the stories plot to build. Estranged and complicated feelings begin to form, fights brew between Josh and
Peter and it all ending in a dreamy kiss between Lara Jean and the boy she wrote her love letter to. The film also displays a single father’s struggle of raising three girls, filling the void of a deceased mother. Sympathy begins to grow for him as you watch the father struggle to understand his teenage girls more than complicated relationships. Confused with her feelings for both Josh and Peter, it caused her to break out of her innocence that is displayed throughout majority of the film. The internal struggles that she faced with surviving high school and solving her first “boy problem” made the movie relatable. Like Lara Jean, many have faced a complicated love
life, or even trouble finding themselves throughout their school years. The film based off of a New York Times bestseller To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, captivates the audience. After watching the movie many were left in a positive mood, overly satisfied with the sappy love story ending. Giulia Chlarson, an avid Netflix binge watcher stated, “I loved it! I was in love with their secret relationship and all the drama and love that went into the whole movie.” Although it was loved by many, every movie has it’s critics, Devon Szantos a student at Sonoma State University stated, “It was a cheesy romcom that I always fall for. It, at times, was so cheesy that I
couldn’t help but laugh, it almost ruined the movie for me.” Although Szantos response wasn’t what was expected Chlarson, along with many rom-com lovers, will be pleased with this movie. If you are looking for a cheesy teen romance then this is the movie for you! It will keep you interested with an estranged love triangle, as well as Lara Jean trying to find herself throughout the movie. Expect to be hit with the hunky one liners and the romantic, but awkward, eye contact that leads to a kiss. Spend a night in, with a bowl of buttery popcorn and get wrapped up in this teenage romantic comedy that you’ve been wanting to see.
Entertainment 7
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Netflix implements advertisements on platform
COURTSEY // Netflix
Kailey Priest
STAFF WRITER
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acklash surfaces after some Netflix viewers are beginning to experience advertisements between episodes. While not all viewers are experiencing these ads, no one seems to be too happy about it. Before each episode in a season, viewers are used to watching a re-cap of the previous episode. However, it has been reported now, Netflix will be previewing other shows to try and expand viewers tastes as well. You won’t have to suffer through these advertisements after completing a few quick, and easy steps. According to ComicBook.com, you can opt out of these test ads being displayed, as well as any other tests Netflix runs, permanently. All you need to do to stop the advertisements to watch your favorite, binge-worthy T.V. show is to open your laptop or tablet and access Netflix’s website. On the home screen you will find your profile icon located in the top right corner. Once you’ve located your profile icon, in the drop down menu click “Account” and scroll down to the “Settings” where you will notice a link, among others, called “Test Participation.” Set your preference to “Off” and then click the “Done”
icon and you’ll advertisement free and you can enjoy your favorite netflix shows without hesitation! While this isn’t the first test Netflix has issued, their motive is to find ways to track what people are watching and help their accessibility to other shows be as effortless as possible. “At Netflix, we conduct hundreds of tests every year so we can better understand what helps members more easily find something great to watch,” said Netflix’s streaming service in a statement to IGN. “A couple of years ago, we introduced video previews to the TV experience, because we saw that it significantly cut the time members spend browsing and helped them find something they would enjoy watching even faster. In this particular case, we are testing whether surfacing recommendations between episodes helps members discover stories they will enjoy faster.” While Netflix meant well, the select few who have been experiencing these interruptions have taken to twitter as an outlet expressing their overall dissatisfaction. The overwhelming majority see this as a very negative effect on their Netflix viewing experience. From Twitter @JoshMitchell describes it as a “big money grab” and that they will only increase their prices resulting in a “Netflix Premium.” Libby Watson, a political commentator, took to Twitter stating “Netflix has started putting ads for its shitty
“Astroworld” vs. “Scorpion”
Nicki Minaj’s album sales not as expected for “Queen”
Teresa Gulli
STAFF WRITER
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he long-anticipated fourth studio album from Nicki Minaj’s, Queen, arrived earlier this month. There have been many promotions for Queen starting as early as April with the lead single “ChunLi.” To follow strongly behind, is her second single “Bed” featuring Ariana Grande. Minaj’s overall promotional lead single for the album is titled “Rich Sex” in collaboration with Lil Wayne. Many other artists have been featured on Queen including Eminem, The Weeknd and Tekashi 6ix9ine. Minaj debuted #2 following the lead of the album Astroworld by Travis Scott for Minaj’s first week of sales despite taking a break from releasing music. She has brought blame to Kylie Jenner, Travis Scott’s girlfriend, for promoting the tour and claiming she and Stormi will provide a meetand-greet, ultimately leaving him at #1 for the second week since his release. Since the sales for this album have not been as expected, this has brought many to question if she has postponed her tour due to that reason. Minaj said on twitter to her fans, “… I must just have have three or more opening acts. This is all happening because I pushed my album back two months and I just finished writing and recording literally hours before the album came out. So now I simply just do not have the time to rehearse and be on the road to give you guys the level of a show I need to give.” Currently Nicki is doing what she can to bring the best tour worthwhile to her fans and having multiple openers
will bring an ever stronger value to her show. Following about a week after her album release date, the VMA’s arrived where she won a Moonman award for the Best Hip Hop Video with “Chun-Lin” out beating The Carters, Cardi B, Drake and J. Cole. This award is such an honor to be nominated and her fans came through for her in receiving the award over the other artists. Despite leading at #2 in the charts, we clearly see that her fans are in full support of Minaj and her music. For her speech, Minaj strongly thanks her fans and everyone who has helped work and complete this album, including Ariana Grande. Nicki Minaj brings a unique R&B vibe while incorporating her fast rapping style her fans know and love. The lyrics are all original, so her audience understands her disposition. Her beats are phenomenal, with a detailed charismatic harmony that makes you want to sing along. Her personality really projects through her work to provide a picture of loving the art and creating a fun music with songs like “Barbie Dreams” and “Fefe” with Tekashi6ix9ine. Many of Minaj’s fans on campus are taking a liking to her new album as well. According to a Sonoma State University senior, Dayna Pang said, “This album is very raw and true to herself. It was relaxing to hear something new for once. Definitely everyone should give this album a listen.” If you are a devoted rap fan, who also enjoys the beats inf luenced by pop and R&B Nicki Minaj’s Queen is the album to listen to.
stand up specials in between episodes of frasier. And probably other shows but i’ve got frasier on and it feels particularly offensive. Keep frasier pure.” While it has been noted by Netflix that they put out hundreds of tests a year, it seems like this one is not going over well with their mass of subscribers. It is known that many other media outlets do use ads before, in between and/or after their selected content. Other outlets just as Hulu and Spotify have noted their target audience, college students, and paired up with one another to create an all around package fitting the needs of any and all university students--music without interruptions and tons of hit series and movies. By signing up for the student discount Hulu package, which is only $5, you have access to unlimited streaming of a particular series, limited commercials, tons of movies on Hulu and Spotify premium, which provides unlimited songs, skips and even the option to download music. While Netflix’s package is still more expensive, its selling point is the aspect of no advertisements. Without the option for a student discount, by bringing these advertisement tests to the field, it doesn’t seem like a smart move for Netflix in the long run.
COURTSEY //Twiter.com Alexander Funchess STAFF WRITER
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COURTSEY // YouTube.com
Commentary
ap fans were not disappointed as a result of Drake’s Scorpion and Travis Scott’s Astroworld album release this summer. The two rappers highly anticipated albums are topping the charts as we start this new semester. Both albums have received both praise and criticism. Released in late-June, Drake’s Scorpion collected a record breaking one billion streams in the first week of it’s release. Following the release of his 2017 album, More Life, the Toronto rapper explores the genres of both Hip-Hop and R&B with his most versatile album to date. The first half of Scorpion offers heavy 808 bass melodies in tracks such as “Nonstop” and “God’s Plan.” The song “Elevate,” produced by PARTYNEXTDOOR, delivers Drake’s simple, yet catchy, hooks also seen in “Talk Up” featuring Jay-Z. Drake takes a different route as he introduces the B-Side of Scorpion with deeper tracks that look into the 31-year old’s love life. “Peak” and “Jaded” offer emotional lyrics along with slow and steady beats that kick off the second half of the album. Drake continues the B-Side with more upbeat, dance worthy songs such as “In My Feelings” and “Blue Tint.” The B-Side ends with significant features from Ty Dolla $ign on the song “After Dark” and even Michael Jackson on the R&B ballad style song “Don’t Matter To Me.” Travis Scott’s latest album, Astroworld, recently dropped on Aug 3 and is currently #1 on the Billboard’s Hot 100. Scott continues where he left off on his previous album, Birds In The Trap Sing McKnight, combining a masterwork of rhythmic trap drums crossed with synthesizers that complete Travis’ sound. The track “Stargazing,” introduces
Astroworld with head nodding drums along with Scott’s classic auto-tuned melodies. Scott produced the album alongside several producers including Tay Keith as well as Cubeatz. The following songs are no disappointment with features from Frank Ocean on the heavy bass track “CAROUSEL” and The Weeknd on “WAKE UP” and “SKELETONS” produced by Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker. The rest of Astroworld mainly consists of other various “trap beats” with features from Quavo and Takeoff on “WHO? WHAT!” and 21 Savage on “NC-17.” The last track on Astroworld titled “COFFEE BEAN” gives us a different sound from Travis that we have never heard before from his previous studio albums. The grooving drums, soft guitar melodies, and passionate rapping gives us a taste of Travis’ sound without autotune, allowing for a distinct ending to Astroworld. When asking students on Sonoma State University’s campus which album they thought was better, I received a variety opinions. “Scorpion over Astroworld for sure. Drake released an awesome 25 song, twosided album and I feel like not that many artists go to that extreme. I really enjoy the whole album and the catchy songs that Drake released,” said Josh Alegria, a senior at Sonoma State. Without a doubt, both albums have great production, however I agree with Micah’s statement. The track “SICKO MODE,” for example, is a very distinct song on Astroworld due to its ability to switch beats mid-way. Although unusual, Travis and his producers break the rules of production and create songs that are one of a kind. I agree that Scorpion is a creative, lengthy album, and does a great job combining R&B with Hip-Hop. However, I believe Astroworld is more inventive as it breaks today’s Hip-Hop and Trap production.
8 Student Life
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Stomping Grounds gives students variety in meal options
JENNIFER SPENCE
STAFF WRITER
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he Wine Spectator Learning Center was one of the most anticipated additions to Sonoma State University’s Campus, officially opening on May 29 in the evening. The building received a $11 million in donation from various sources to create the learning center. Since the fall semester of 2017, we have all been waiting to see the new modern building and what it had to offer. What most students were excited to find out about was the new cafe located inside the building called Stomping Grounds. The name is inspired by two ideas, stomping grounds as in a place to hangout, and the process of stomping grapes to make wine. It is only fitting since the school is located in Wine Country. Sammy Sinatra, a Communications major, has been an employee at Charlie Browns and has heard that Stomping Grounds is only accepting cash. “It’s inconvenient for students who don’t carry cash but it also takes time for a new place to get set up,” said Sinatra. Anyone thinking about trying out the new spot on campus better be sure they have cash or wolf bucks. However, for all students, faculty, and visitors 21 and over, the cafe offers a wide selection of beer and wine after 11:00 a.m. For everyone else, there is a wide selection of coffee and other beverages. When you visit the seven other dining venues on campus, there is a lack of variety in the food choices. Stomping Grounds finally brings something new with waff le sandwiches and a quinoa bento box. This generation seems to be much more aware of their nutrition and like many others, Shelby Cohen, age 20 and a psychology major, has been waiting for more variety on cam-
pus. “I love that the cafe has healthier options,” said Cohen. The cafe is only open Monday through Friday from 7:45 in the morning to 7:15 at night, so be sure to make time between classes to stop by. What is exciting is that the cafe’s menu changes every week and each cycle can be found on the Sonoma State website. With each week comes a new surprise, so eating there will never get old. My favorite option is the charcuterie and pretzel plate which has salami, prosciutto, cornichons, grapes and grain mustard. Those who have classes in the Wine Spectator Learning Center are lucky to have the cafe right outside of their classroom. Sinead Coleman, a business major, says how convenient it is to get a drink or snack in between class. “I think it is great that wine is being more integrated into the school,” says Coleman. Stomping Grounds has breakfast, lunch and dinner, so there are options to pick from throughout the day. Located next to International Hall, the building is the farthest one from the main parking lots, but the atmosphere is worth the walk. With a modern and colorful interior, the learning center provides multiple seating areas to enjoy the newest food on campus. On a sunny day, there is outdoor seating that looks out on the grass in between Stevenson and Salazar. On the colder days, there are the cozy couches and chairs inside that are surrounded by glass walls. Wherever you sit, there is an exciting feeling from the energy of people hoping to see what the hype is about.
STAR // Natalie Richmond-Dolan Student Evan Lewis enjoys a breakfast burrito at the new Stomping Grounds cafe on campus. The view from the cafe’s terrace.
Panhellenic recruitment offers rewarding experiences MORGAN ARANCIO STAFF WRITER
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very fall, one of the most anticipated events of the year, Panhellenic recruitment, comes to campus. Recruitment takes place over several days during Labor Day weekend; Aug. 31 to Sep. 3. When talking to senior Emily Ball, a Liberal Studies major, she mentioned that going through recruitment was the best decision she’s made at Sonoma State Unvieristy. “Joining Alpha Xi Delta has helped with my connection to more students on campus, inf luenced me to take on leadership roles, and given me my best friends.” There are a total of eight different sororities on campus: Alpha Delta Pi, Gamma Phi Beta, Alpha Xi Delta, Alpha Gamma Delta, Alpha Omicron Pi, Phi Sigma Sigma, Kappa Delta Zeta, and Lambda Kappa Pi. They each have their own philanthropies that they support and raise money for. Paz Medina, a senior Early Childhood Studies major and member of Phi Sigma Sigma, said Greek life changed her college experience by “pushing me out of my comfort zone and getting more involved in school and the community.” Sophomore Rickiyah McGrady, a Psychology major, agreed and said, “[Greek life] has helped me see the importance of working hard to achieve the things I want, and being surrounded by girls who all want the best for you
makes it all that much easier and fulfilling.” As McGrady mentioned, the great thing about going through recruitment is that you’re not alone. During Recruitment, the Sororities put everyone into different groups and have counselors, also known as Rho Gams, designated to help them along and give you support. Spending so much time with eachother, even when girls go their separate ways at the end of the weekend, helps people form lasting friendships and bonds with group members and Rho Gams. Carly Wade, a senior majoring in Communications, is the Recruitment Chair on the Panhellenic Executive board. “I oversee the recruitment process for all six of the national sororities on campus.” she said. “I make sure that all the rules and bylaws are being followed.” When Wade was asked what one piece of advice she would give to someone going through recruitment, her answer was simply to be yourself. There are info nights still happening every night leading up to recruitment weekend. The exact dates are Aug. 27, 28 and 29 all starting at 8 p.m. in the Cooperage. Check one out and see what greek life is all about. The deadline to register is Aug. 29 at midnight. Once you have registered, there is an All About Recruitment meeting where you meet the recruitment counselor that will lead you through the weekend, and get specific details of the process, and
all questions answered. It’s a kick-start to the weekend and to help you feel comfortable and not so overwhelmed. After talking to each girl in different chapters, they agreed that going through recruitment is a great way to get involved on campus and is a rewarding experience you won’t regret.
COURTESY // ssupanhellenic.weebly.com
ON CAMPUS THIS WEEK STUDENT HEALTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SHAC) MEETING Aug. 27 12 - 12:50 p.m. Student Health Center Conference Room OPEN DANCE AUDITIONS FOR SSU FALL DANCE CONCERT Aug. 27 from 7 - 10 p.m. PE 1 SEAWOLF INVOVLMENT FAIR AND CLUB FAIR AND HOT DOG GIVEAWAY DAY Aug. 29 11:30 - 1 p.m. Seawolf Plaza
SEAWOLF SERVICE AND INTERNSHIP FAIR Aug. 30 from 11:30 - 1:30 p.m. Seawolf Plaza
SHAC DOGGY PLAY DAY Aug. 30 2:30 - 4 p.m. SeawolF Plaza
TASTE OF SONOMA Sep. 1 11-12 p.m. Weill Hall and Lawn
Student Life 9
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
“Global Warming Demystified” heads to Sonoma EMILY TWISSELMANN STAFF WRITER
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xperienced educator, author, and astrophysicist Dr. Jeffrey Bennett is coming to Sonoma State University’s Darwin Hall Room 103 on Monday, Sep. 10 at 4 p.m. to enlighten college students on the basic scientific knowledge behind global warming. Additionally, this quick, free lecture is going to be just one small stepping stone in the grand path of Dr. Bennett’s “Global Warming Demystified” Tour. The book that Dr. Bennett’s tour is currently based off of, “Global Warming Primer” is also available online for free. While this lecture is primarily aimed towards people who are either curious to learn more about global warming or people who harbor suspicions regarding the topic, Dr. Bennett draws attention to the fact that this lecture is suitable for everyone. It’s even for students who have already heard everything there is to hear and have seen everything there is to see when it comes to facts behind climate change. Dr. Bennett still encourages students, faculty, and people of all ages to come with questions and comments. “Regardless of how much you do or don’t know already about this topic...” Dr. Bennett said, “[this lecture] will better prepare you to talk about this topic with friends and family... and also help you see what it’s going to take to solve the problem.” What Dr. Bennett plans to cover in the upcom-
ing talk includes a summarized version of everything that he’s studied and taught about global warming for a number of years. In fact, Dr. Bennett has been passionate about astronomy his whole life and started teaching students about global warming in 1982. In this upcoming lecture specifically, Dr. Bennett plans to focus on a core idea called “Global Warming 123.” Additionally, audience members can all expect Dr. Bennett to explain climate change’s possible solutions and highlight the concept that global warming’s issues are of national concern: “It’s not a political problem,” Dr. Bennett said, “it’s just a problem that we can all work on together... we know greenhouse gasses make planets warmer, we know that we’re increasing the concentration of those gasses...The idea that we’re going to get global warming is kind of an obvious conclusion.” Another topic that Dr. Bennett stressed during his interview with the STAR was the importance of astronomy and global warming to the college students of today. “Everything in astronomy is important. But global warming is important in a different way... [Sonoma State Students] should care because this is your future! The world you’re going to live in is going to be shaped by what you do or do not do on this issue.” In particular, Dr. Bennett emphasized the ways in which climate change is a problem that we can all solve together. Global warming, “is very directly impactful
on the current generation of college students and you’re the best generation to solve it.” It’s the young people,” concludes Dr. Bennett, “that have to make the efforts and make the changes to make sure that this world is the kind of world we want to live in.”
COURTESY // Emily Twisselmann
Seawolf SPEAKS! What are you most afraid for this semester? NICK CESCHIN
STAFF WRITER
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he fall of 2018 has brought Sonoma State Univeristy a brand new class of freshman, all of whom are leaving the nest for the first time as they dive into the next step of their lives. As young fledgelings not yet privy to the ways and ideals of a college student, these first-years undoubtedly carry with them certain anxieties and worries that a seasoned Sonoma State student might have forgotten. The STAR decided to ask a small fraction
of the new freshmen what worries them most about the upcoming semester, and found that the answers vary from person to person. However, we also should recognize that a question like this will draw answers which reflect the fears and concerns of not just a brand new student, but of a person who is leaving their comfort
zone for the first time.
“The thing I’m worried about most is getting a job this semester and balancing it with school work.”
“I’m most worried about being away from home.”
Jarod Moyers, freshman
Hailey Walton, freshman
“I’m most worried about passing my classes and getting involved in school activities.”
“The amount of writing that you have to do in an FYE class.” Henry Popko, freshman
Maddy Martella, freshman
“ Probably keeping up with my classes and the homework as well.”
“I’m most worried about not making friends and not being able to balance all of my schoolwork.” Ali Ceschin, freshman
Richard Pena, freshman
Sonoma State straw ban beneficial LUIS MADRIGAL Staff Writer
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henever you buy a drink at a food facility on campus, you almost always expect a straw with it as a lot of people need it to drink their beverage or simply a straw. It’s something that people don’t really think about: Where that straw came from, how it was made or even what effect it has on the planet. This will soon change, however, as many places, including Sonoma State University, will only be giving straws upon request due to the effect of plastic on global warming This year, Sonoma State’s culinary services have
decided to start practicing the Assembly Bill 1884, in efforts to promote more sustainable practices on campus. This bill prohibits any sit-down food facility from providing singleuse plastic straws to consumers unless requested by the customer. This bill will impact all students, faculty, and staff at Sonoma State, because many people feel like straws don’t do much harm and that they deserve to have one with every beverage purchase. While some students or faculty might disagree with this bill, there is a lot of support behind this decision due to the fact that it is another way of practicing sustainability here on campus. In a interview by the
Sonoma State STAR last year, Nancy Keller, director of culinary services said, “our goal is to try to get people to be aware about straws, and really to have a situation where if you have to work at it a little bit, you might think twice.” However, many people might disagree with this because they have to go out of their way to ask for a straw. This is important because a lot of the time people don’t think about where the things they consume come from or how they were made before using them. The new ban aims to increase awarenessamong students and staff. The straw ban is just another great way of continuing healthy and sustainable
practices, since Sonoma State already promotes sustainability with resources like the compost program and the water bottle refill stations. The straw ban is a good idea because it is something simple that can potentially make a big change. According to the National Park Service, in the U.S. alone, people use about 500 million straws daily. In addition, according to National Geographic, a lot of plastic is causing global warming and most of the trash and garbage can be found in the ocean since they are not easily recyclable or decomposable. Although the use of plastic straws won’t be as common, that does not mean there
aren’t other alternatives such as glass, metal, paper and bamboo, which is more sustainable and will most likely not end up in the ocean. Culinary services, for example, will soon be switching to paper straws in an effort to use an alternative material and still provide straws if necessary for products like smoothies. This is great news, because not only will this campus stop giving out straws, but it will also be trying to eliminate the real problem which is the plastic. This policy will all be in effect this semester for the first time so it will be an important change not only for culinary services, but the students, faculty and staff that make up Sonoma State.
10 Sports MADELEINE BROWN
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Women’s Volleyball starts season with three-set sweep
STAFF WRITER
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he Sonoma State University Women’s Volleyball team played against Pacific Union College at the Wolves’ Den on August 23, kicking off the first game of the NorCal Volleyball Classic Tournament. They won each set by at least nine points, finishing off the first at 25-15, the second at 25-16, and the third at 25-15. Overall, the team got 43 kills, 40 assists, and 53 digs. Right off the bat the Seawolves scored 6 points in the first set, barely letting Pacific Union College score a single point. Pacific Union College made an impressive attempt diving for a ball in the first set but the Seawolves got their point. Pacific Union College nearly caught up towards the end of the set with a score of 20-15, but the Seawolves triumphed with a nine point lead. The second set started just as fiercely as the first with the Seawolves winning a 5-0 lead in the first couple minutes. However, Pacific Union College set off the third period scoring the first three points. The Seawolves seemed to have gotten a bit tired, tieing with Pacific Union College at 7-7. However, they picked back up again and defeated Pacific Union College with a 10 point lead at the end of the last set. Promptly after finishing the game, the Seawolves jetted off for their weekend tournament in Turlock where they will be playing against Academy of Art Univer-
sity, University of Antelope Valley, and Georgia College. This tournament will be followed by a game on Monday in San Rafael and another four game tournament next weekend. This game set off a good start to the season with Head Coach Bear Grassl admitting that the girls “looked more relaxed...calm...and smooth.” The Seawolves played against a couple of tough teams last week, taking the pressure off for their game against Pacific Union College, which seemed to be an easy win. With only one senior on the team this season, Coach Grassl was “glad [they] could stay calm and be smooth about what [they] needed to do.” For a young team, the girls played very well with a sophomore leading the team in the first set, getting the team to a 6-0 scoreboard. Coach Grassi said that their goals for the season are to “play hard and have fun,” and although they are a young team, having a calm and smooth composure leads to confidence on the court and smart playing decisions, hopefully resulting in good wins for the Seawolves. Although Pacific Union College is not a tough competitor for Sonoma State Women’s Volleyball, hopefully their relaxed composure continues to spill out throughout the season.
STAR // Lauren Eipp Seawolves volleyball players huddle together in between sets
Intramural sports give students a fun and healthy outlet BRENNAN CRAIG SPORTS EDITOR
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f you’re trying to meet new people and looking for a fun way to get exercise, intramural sports at Sonoma State University are the activity you’ve been looking for. Intramural sports are a great way for people with any level of experience to become part of a team and play against other teams comprised of Sonoma State students. There are three divisions; Coed, Men’s, and Women’s teams depending on the sport. In addition, there are two leagues: Pros and Joes. The Pro league is for seasoned veterans of the sport who may have played in high school, but are looking for something less time consuming compared to the club teams or National Collegiate Athletic Association level. The Joe division is just as competitive but is designed for people new to the sport. Intramural club teams differ from Sonoma State sports clubs because with intramurals you will be competing against other Sonoma State students. In club sports you will be competing against teams from other schools. Club sports regularly go for a semester or full year based on the club, but intramural seasons only
go for 4-6 weeks. There are two seasons every semester. Sports for season one include: basketball, volleyball, indoor soccer (futsal) and f lag football. Signups for season one are due by Aug. 29th. Play begins on Sept. 2nd, and Aug. 30th is the managers meeting. After the managers meeting, the coordinators will compose the schedule for all of the divisions and leagues. Teams that make it to playoffs will go into the 5th and 6th weeks, and winners will receive a t-shirt designed by a Sonoma State student. The intramural sports coordinators this year are students Alec Rodriguez and Zac Taugher. According to them, the most important feature of intramurals is that everyone is having fun and displaying good sportsmanship. “We really push for good sportsmanship. One of our policies is that after every game the refs and supervisors rate the team on sportsmanship on a scale of 1-5,” says Rodriguez. Taugher explains that when the regular season finishes up, the teams that are above 500 go on to the playoffs, as long as they have an average sportsmanship score of 3. Rodriguez has played multiple sports since his sophomore year and says one of his favorite aspects of intramurals is meeting new people. Taugher played volleyball last year and even though his team didn’t
do so well, he was pleased that he still had a fun time and was able to get good exercise. If you have a group of people that want to be on a team together, visit the Rec Center and fill out the team sign up form. Teams can range from as little as five people to as many as twenty. If you need an extra person or want to be on a team but don’t have other people, go check out the free agent sign up sheet in the Recreation Center and the staff there can assist you. There is a team fee of $60 to $70 dollars to staff the games and every team is guaranteed at least four games. To be eligible to play for an intramural sports team you must be either an enrolled student, faculty, staff or registered alumni with Sonoma State. In addition, every participant must sign an assumption of risk form. During their season, intercollegiate athletes are not allowed to participate in their sport. When signing up, the manager is required to make a team on www.imleagues.com. They will then add all participants on their team and this will be the best way to get notifications and stay up to date. For any additional information visit the RecreIssue ation Center located in the building across from the Student Center or email ssu.intramurals@gmail. com.
Sports Schedule Thursday, Aug. 30 Women’s Volleyball @ Azusa Pacific 1 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. Women’s Soccer vs Dominican 2 p.m. Men’s Soccer vs. Western Washington 5 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 31 Women’s Volleyball @ Azusa Pacific 3 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 1 Women’s Cross Country NDNU Argonaut Invitational Women’s Soccer vs. Concordia 11 a.m. Women’s Volleyball vs. Biola @Azusa Pacific 3 p.m. Men’s Soccer vs Seattle Pacific 5 p.m.
Sports 11
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Lacrosse Club prepares for upcoming season
COURTESY // Sonoma State University Lacrosse Club The team battles in a game against Colorado State. JOEY PIOMBO STAFF WRITER
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he Sonoma State University Lacrosse Club was founded in 1985 and they currently compete in the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA). The MCLA consists of nine division one club conferences throughout the United States and the Western Collegiate Lacrosse League (WCLL), has been home to the seawolfs since 1989. This conference is stacked with many great schools such as University of California-Berkeley, Stanford University, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, California State University-Chico, Dominican University and University of Nevada, Reno. Since joining the MCLA, the Sonoma State lacrosse club has made history by earning its first National Championship Trophy in 2002. Last season, the seawolfs were faced with a very demanding schedule. With tough competition in the WCLL and many skilled out of conference opponents such as Grand Canyon University, University of Florida and 2018 National Champions Michigan State University, the team was forced to perform at the highest level. They responded well to the challenge, eventually making it to the WCLL Conference playoff semi-final
game. They went on to be eliminated by the University of California-Berkeley that game, finishing out their 2018 campaign with a record of 7-9 on the year. With the 2019 lacrosse season right around the corner, the Seawolves are looking to get back into the swing of things, and they are using the fall semester to do just that. This fall the seawolves will spend time practicing and scrimmaging in preparation for the spring season. Every new year brings with it a new recruiting class. Head Coach Panchito Ojeda is thrilled to acquire some new skilled athletes for the seawolf roster. “21 new guys....they will help our team by providing good depth and competition,” said Ojeda. The 2019 season will also bring some unique new rules to the MCLA, most important being the new shot clock. This will mean that each offensive unit will now have a 60-second time limit to shoot the ball on-goal. If they fail to shoot within sixty seconds, the ball will be turned over and possession will be rewarded to the opponent. This rule may change the f low of the game itself. “The game may prove to be slightly faster up and down the field which also means you will see more possessions per game,” said Ojeda. During the fall semester, the seawolves will be
competing in preseason scrimmages. They will be showcasing their skill against five opponents: Notre Dame de Namur University, Biola University, East Bay Athletics Club, Dominican University and also an Alumni game. Although these games may not be in-season, they often prove to be a very crucial part of the seawolves’ growth. “The goal is to really develop that confidence and drive,” said Ojeda. The 2019 spring season will be a very exciting time for the seawolves, it is no surprise that they have some unfinished business to take care of. “I am looking forward to conference games and competing on the field, I am excited for our schedule,” Ojeda said. Moreover, with the 2019 season in sight, it is challenging not to look down the line with thoughts of taking the new season one step further. “My goal for the season is to be the best version of ourselves when we get to the WCLL championship weekend. My second goal is to really establish a culture, hard work at practice and outside of it,” Ojeda said. Fans looking to follow what is already shaping to be a unique season can watch our home games next year on campus on the Beaujolais fields. For more information visit ssulacrosse.com.
Women’s cross country gears up for fall season MARTIN CONTRERAS STAFF WRITER
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ross country is not only one of the most physicallydemandingfallsports,butit’salso one of the most mentally challenging ones. With a little over a week until their first meet, the Sonoma State University women’s cross country team is ready to begin the long but rewarding journey that is a cross country season. On September 1, our Women’s team will head down to Belmont, CA and race on the in-
famous Crystal Springs Cross Country Course at the Notre Dame de Namur Invitational. They have high hopes for this fall as they ended the year strong last season at the 2017 NCAA Division II Cross Country West Regional Championships in Monmouth, Oregon with a total team score of 803 points. Their big race before that was at the California Collegiate Athletic Association Cross Country Championships (CCAA) where they finished in 12th place as a team. Aside from their outstanding team efforts, there were also some individual recognitions that
COURTESY // Jasmine Casillas The women’s cross country team poses during meet.
only further propelled the teams spirits. The then sophomore, now junior, Jasmine Casillas finished in 61st place out of 112 runners and also was the top finisher on the Seawolves for the sixth straight race. Just to top off an amazing sophomore year, she also received the prestigious CCAA Championship Scholar Athlete Award, which distinguished her as the athlete with the highest grade point average out of all the 112 runners on the course that day. While reflecting upon last season she stated that, “It was lots of fun leading the team last year, I was able to test my limits and we all made significant improvements by the end of the year. The team also bonded a lot as the weeks went by which was one of my favorite parts, the fires especially made us brought us closer together.” Casillas expressed her excitement about this upcoming season. Training began over the summer with workouts that their head coach, Sean Fitzpatrick, provided for each runner. They arrived on campus a week before the other students and this week is called “hell week.” It’s seven days packed with running workouts, speed work, long runs, hills, etc. “You just have to keep running no matter what, but it really jumpstarts the season,” said Casillas. Casillas is entering her junior year at Sonoma State University this fall as Pre-Med Major and is positioned to have an incredible season this year, so
keep an eye out for her to continue to push her limits. She was also delighted to share the fact that this year’s team is significantly larger than that of last seasons. It has basically doubled from the 10 to 12 runners they had in 2017 to about 20 in the upcoming 2018 season. “Our bigger team is filled with experienced veterans, excited transfers, and hopeful freshman,” said Casillas. Their head coach, Sean Fitzpatrick, has been with the team since 2013 and is beloved by his team for various reason. “Coach Sean is awesome, he often runs with us which most coaches don’t do. He sets the example with his constant leadership and expectations, pushing us to not slack off and always be striving for progress. He devotes a lot of time and energy to the team and makes running for the team a lot more enjoyable,” said Casillas. The cross country team also received an assistant head coach, Aly Coughlin, in 2017. She’s a very decorated and knowledgeable athlete and coach who has been running competitively for years and has excelled in the 3000, 5000, and 1000 meter races along with the Steeplechase. The runners are “very excited to be working with such a talented and amazing person.”
12 Photo
AUG. 28 - SEPT. 3, 2018
sonomastatestar.com
Grand Opening of Stomping Grounds Cafe
STAR // Natalie Dolan Students ordering pastries and wine at the new cafe on campus, Stomping Grounds.
STAR // Natalie Dolan Students looking at their options for lunch at the new cafe on campus.
STAR // Natalie Dolan Fruit and pastry display in Stomping Grounds.
STAR // Natalie Dolan Students find a new study and dining spot on campus right outside the cafe.
STAR // Michelle Tadlock Epic Proportions guitarist performing live at the Back to School Concert.
STAR // Michelle Tadlock (Top) A crowd of students enjoying and cheering on Epic Proportions. (Bottom) Epic Proportions performs live at the Back to School Concert.
STAR // Michelle Tadlock Students checking in and getting free swag before entering RecFest.
STAR // Michelle Tadlock Students crashing into eachother while in the zorb balls at RecFest on Thursday.