Volume 82 // Issue 10

IN THIS ISSUE

Senior Night

7-Eleven crash

Read about what women’s water polo, softball and tennis did for senior night on PAGE 10 and PAGE 11.

See what a student did to the front of 7-Eleven on PAGE 4.

Sexual assault hearings

Read about the changes to the university’s policies around sexual assault on PAGE 5.

SINCE 1979

VOLUME 82 // ISSUE 10 APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

@SONOMASTATESTAR

Pump failure causes 3-day water shutdown F WILL HAHN

STAFF WRITER

or three days last week, Sonoma State University told students not to drink or cook with its water while it underwent testing. The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) notified Sonoma State University at 10:20 a.m. on Monday, April 8, to send out a boil water notice after a water pressure dropped in the university’s well water system when a a water pump failed.

The university sent an email advising campus “to use bottled water or boiled tap water for drinking and cooking purposes.” The water pressure drop could have possibly led to contaminants entering Sonoma State’s well-fed system, so testing was required.

Sonoma State’s well system has been in place since campus was founded, but university spokesperson Paul Gullixson doesn’t see the pump failure as evidence of a systemic problem with the university’s water system.

“I think this is a situation like a flat tire that happens. Accidents happen, and you got to go through it,” Gullixson said.

Sonoma State set up water bottle distribution stations in the Student Center and Zinfandel Village.

About 6,000 water bottles were given to students in the first two days after the notice, Gullixson said.

STAR // Kaylie Boettner The university lifted the boil notice at 5:31 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10, when testing showed that no un- Sonoma State’s well-fed system, located by the tennis courts, has been in place since the universafe bacteria ended up in the water. While the notice sity was built was in effect, signs were posted on drinking fountains “Certainly, there is some frustration,” said Sonoma There is still no explanation as to why the pumps telling students not to use them. Students were also told State’s Vice President of Administration and Finance, failed to initiate in the first place. to use hand sanitizer after washing their hands.

Joyce Lopes.

“We turn on a tap, water comes out, and “To resolve the issue, we are working on identifyThis was out of an abundance of caution and a recthat’s the way it works.

So, when something like that ing the root cause for a single point of failure and lookommendation from the Center for Disease Control and has erupted, it is a frustration to us, and that’s undering at how to then remediate that once we identify it,” Prevention, Gullixson said. “There’s just a lot of recomstandable.” said Lopes.

“That’s a process that’s collaborative and mendations and guidelines out there for health and safeRuth LeBalanc, director of environmental health being managed with a number of people in facilities ty, and we erred on the side of caution on all of them.” and safety at Sonoma State, responded to nearly 100 who are responsible for these areas.”

Notifying the SWRCB when the water pressure calls that mostly dealt with showering and hygiene conTo further investigate the problem and make sure drops is any drinking water facility’s protocol, even afcerns from a mix of parents, students and community that it will not happen again, Lopes said the university is ter the pumps are turned back on and the water pressure members. putting visual inspection on their water system, twice a returns to normal.

“I thought the university did an amazing job getting day every day to ensure that this does not happen again.

SWRCB Senior Sanitary Engineer Janice Oakley distribution stations set up, and I think our students, Aside from the pump failure, the university is actufrom the Division of Drinking Water said that both staff and faculty are incredibly resilient,” LeBalanc ally building new water storage tanks from California them and Sonoma State tested for E. Coli and Coliform said.

State University funds that were given to Sonoma State. over the course of 48 hours. These were the types of Over the two-day period of the boil notice, thou“Largely, our students, faculty, staff and visitors bacteria that were required to be sampled during the sands of water bottles were provided to students and pulled together and showed great patience, understandtesting period. members of the campus community.

So, even if drinking and flexibility during this incident.

They showed Students living in on-campus housing dealt with not ing fountains and water-filling stations were not allowed an amazing amount of resilience and I think that’s why being able to consume water directly from the bathroom to be used, there was no shortage of water for those who we know we’re seawolf strong,” Lopes said.

“We’re and kitchen sink or feeling unnerved taking a shower or needed it.

Sonoma strong.” brushing their teeth.

AS president election results announced

3 rapes reported

BRADEN CARTWRIGHT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

HOLLY CHANDLER STAFF WRITER

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STAR // Kayla Allen Breana Archie, above, hopes to implement a plan to increase diversity and inclusion at SSU.

Breana Archie: 257 votes (56%)

Read the article on PAGE 5.

Leonel Alejandre Navarro: 202 votes (44%)

here were three reported sexual assaults at Sonoma State in a nine day span from March 30 to April 7, according to the university’s crime log.

On March 30, a rape was reported on the same day it occurred in Tuscany Village. There was no timely warning because the rape involved two acquaintances, university spokesperson Paul Gullixson said.

The university declined to provide any more details on this still open case, such as the circumstances of the rape.

On April 11, another sexual assault was reported as having occurred on April 5 at an unknown location in the residential community.

Like the March 30 case, no timely warning was sent out because “the two parties involved were acquaintances,” Gullixson said.

The university didn’t disclose any additional information on this case too, such as the circumstances of the rape, if either the suspect or victim were students or where the rape reportedly occurred.

On April 10, Sonoma State sent a campus-wide Timely Warning regarding a reported rape on April 7, the third since March 30.

The female survivor and suspect had recently met on a dating website, according to Timely Warning.

The case is still open and under investigation.

“We have no more information to share than what was in the Timely Warning that went out on April 10,” Gullixson said.

In the Timely Warning, police described the suspect, who went by the first name of “Sam”, as being approximately 22 years old, white, 6-feet tall, 250 pounds with strawberry blonde hair, a mustache, a medium length beard and no tattoos.

This was the second Timely Warning sent for sexual assault this year.

The first was sent on Jan. 28 for a rape that occurred on Jan. 26.

“The female victim and suspect were acquaintances,” the Jan. 28 Timely Warning stated. “A beverage she was served at some point during the evening may have included a controlled substance.”

This case is still under investigation, Gullixson said. The university declined to say what actions they have taken, or if the suspect still attends Sonoma State.

Sonoma State has experienced a recent uptick in reported sexual assaults, according to the Annual Security Report. In 2017, the most recent year with available data, there were 10 reported rapes, doubling the previous year’s total.

“I think that sexual assault is underreported in society and at universities, including Sonoma State,” said Missy Brunetta, who works with University Police to send out Timely Warnings. “Because of that, it is difficult t o say if it is prevalent on campus.

That being said, one sexual assault is too many.”

2 Editorial THE STAR Editorial Board Braden Car twright, Editor-in-Chief Kasey Williams, News Editor Gillian Chaffer, Opinion Editor Alison Snider, Ar ts & Enter tainment Editor Haley Kara, Student Life Editor Brennan Craig, Spor ts Editor Natalie Dolan, Photo Editor Mandela Linder, Adver tising Manager Samantha Billingsly, Distribution Manager Corinne Asturias, Faculty Adviser Staff Writers

Kayla Allen, Samantha Billingsly, Kaylie Boettner, Kelly Britton, Holly Chandler, Giulia Chlarson, Clark Fahrenthold, Julianna Ferrara, Alexander Funchess, Ashley Gieseke, Teresa Gulli, Will Hahn, Garrett Kitchen, Emily Kowalski, Katherine Kur tt, Madison Lam, Cole McKeith, Jack Messier, Gabriella Novello, Thomas Peterschmidt, Joseph Piombo, Devon Pique, Sunday Simon, Brandon Sparks, Jonah Trosky, Marissa Ugar te, Jackson Waldron, Aaron Waskowiak, Mattie Williams Photographers

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Nichols Hall 323, 1801 East Cotati Ave Rohnert Park, CA 94928 Telephone: 707-664-2776 Business & General Inquiries: sonomastatestar@gmail.com Corrections and News Tips: star@sonoma.edu

Editor’s Pick This week’s can’t miss article: “New hearing policy for sexual assault cases” News Editor Kasey Williams breaks down the new policies required from Sonoma State.

Read the story on page 5

Corrections/Clarifications

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

SSU not prepared for water crisis

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ost students tend to focus on college stresses, building relationships, grades, and financial worries. Necessities like having clean, filtered and accessible water don’t come to mind when discussing the main struggles that college students face. However, on April 8th, when an email was sent out to students about low water pressure, this narrative changed. Student’s minds weren’t the only things clouded as tap water changed from an afterthought into a huge health concern. Many individuals turned to the faculty for support and answers, but expired water bottles and late notice emails weren’t exactly what they were expecting.

Communication between staff and students has been confusing and distressing. Many oncampus residents received emails informing them that water can be consumed through Brita filters, however these claims were taken back a day later, most likely after many students had been drinking the water through their filter systems. Students were also advised to sanitize after washing their hands, boil all of their water, and not drink from the tap. However, many residents explained that even after the boiling process, sediment was still seen in their water— causing even more panic among them. Nearby stores like 7/11 that are accessible for residents with or without cars are low in stock of large gallons of water, and the student center and health center only handed out single plastic bottles for each student to use for the day for brushing their teeth, cooking, and of course, drinking. From an outsider’s perspective, it seems as if Sonoma State University is in a post apocalyptic world low on vital resources.

Emails sent to students did not seem especially urgent. Students were advised to boil their water or bring water from home, contradicting signs seen around campus water stations informing individuals to not drink the water in big, bold letters. These discrepancies confused students as to if the problem really is serious or not—and many have decided to drink the water regardless, due to not having resources to access enough bottled water. It is important to note that an average person needs to drink eight glasses of water, not just one bottle, and that the campus is struggling to inform students as to how much danger they could be in if they consume said water.

Since the emails don’t specify if there is any other issue than water pressure, students are left to theorize what exactly is happening. Due to observations, particles and cloudiness are being noted from the tap, and staff have also informed students of sediment in the water systems. According to safewater.com, “While there is no specific maximum contaminant level for sand or particulates in drinking water, sediment or sand can carry chemical or microbial contaminants through the processes of absorption and adsorption. Many of these chemical and microbial

contaminants can be harmful to public health.”

Emails state that anyone experiencing negative systems should visit the health center, but unfortunately, this isn’t always accessible for full time students. With the health center and essentially the entire school being closed on the weekends, individuals are left to fend for themselves. This highlights another point—students were noticing cloudiness and strange particles in the water the weekend leading up to the email, which concludes that either emails were not sent out quick enough, or perhaps little staff or faculty were on campus at this time to investigate.

According to newspaper Petaluma360, “A university official notified the state water quality regulators of a potential problem with the tap water on Sunday morning — more than 24 hours before SSU warned the campus about the issue, emails show.” An email at 11 am is useless when many students start class earlier, and might not check their inbox throughout the school day.

Also, this means that on campus residents were exposed to drinking this water before any email was sent out.

A simple water pressure issue is one thing, but late emails, few water bottles, contradicting facts and lack of student resources is another.

For a school claiming to be sustainable, Sonoma State sure does contradict itself as plastic water bottles litter the campus and residents demand answers on why their tap water continues to be unsafe to use.

STAR // Kevin Flores

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.

The STAR values accuracy and works diligently to check facts before publication. However, if inaccuracies occur, we want to know. Please report errors to the editor at star@sonoma.edu.

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Letters to the Editor

Opinion 3

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Gymnast’s injury urges dialogue about high-risk sports in men and women were somewhat similar, yet female injuries were usually more severe.

In 2015, it stated that the most common injuries were found in freshman-eligible athletes. To compare this to other sports, football has a ratio of approximately 8.1 injuries per 1000 players, while basketball only has about 1.94 injuries per 1000 players. While football and wrestling had similar injury rates for men’s sports, gymnastics had the highest rate for women. Soccer also caused the most GARRETT KITCHEN injuries for women in college.

STAFF WRITER These sports would be considn Auburn University student ered more of a high risk sport, while was injured last week af- swim and dive only had a ratio of about ter performing at a NCAA 1.8 injuries per 1000 people. Different gymnastics regional finals. Samantha sports in college universities may be Cerio, a senior gymnast, appeared to putting some students at risk if more have dislocated both of her knees af- cautious actions are not taken. A mater landing a stunt at the competition. jority of students that were injured in Many have said that these sports a college sport say that it has affected could be considered mildly “danger- them throughout their lives. ous,” and that precautions should be According to the website Mistaken to potentially avoid injuries in souri Medicine, college football playthe future. er Jacob S. Stueve, MD said that he According to Johns Hopkins is still paying a physical price for his Medicine, there are three factors that career, stating, “Hopefully as more could lead to these injuries: lack of data is collected, rule changes and education and awareness about pre- equipment improvements will result cautions and injury, inappropriate or in better protection for football playlack of equipment, or poorly condi- ers at all levels.” tioned players. A study looking at colWhile gymnastics and football lege gymnasts concluded that injuries may have similar injury rates, foot-

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ball injuries include more concussions while gymnastics injuries involve more wrist/ankle fractures.

The NCAA website provides a list of precautions and other guidelines for these student athletes. The website states, “Together with leading medical organizations, behavioral health centers and content matter experts, the SSI provides educational resources for member schools to promote and support the health and well-being of student-athletes.”

The resources available to college athletes may be helpful for them in competition, yet studies have shown that injuries occur very commonly during practice as well. According to the website Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “More injuries occurred in practices than in competitions for all women’s sports because more than twice as many athlete-exposures each year occurred in practices compared with competition.”

The student athlete has access to these guidelines and safety tips, yet there is no guarantee that these will prevent injuries in the future. As for senior gymnast Samantha Cerio, she will no longer be continuing in gymnastics. She quotes, “I truly appreciate all of the support and prayers that I have have received! I am doing well right now and getting lots of rest!”

Representation for autism is lacking in the media and younger sister on a journey of their own self-discovery. Throughout season one we see the changes that Sam is actively making in his life to find love, but we are also able to see the challenges that his family members are facing in their own lives.

CHRISTINE VON RAESFELD

STAFF WRITER

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pril is National Autism Awareness Month. When it comes to representation in the media of people on the autism spectrum, unfortunately, there is little to none. When someone googles what shows or movies exist with autistic characters, the number one show that pops up is a newer Netflix show called ‘Atypical,” along with others that not as many people may be familiar with.

Coming up on its third season, the Netflix series titled ‘Atypical’ is a show that focuses on its main character Sam, a teenager on the autism spectrum. The show graphically highlights the mistreatment of people on the spectrum and does a great job at helping viewers get a better understanding of how to communicate with someone on the spectrum.

In season one, the main character Sam decides he is ready to date and find love. This decision and his desire for independence as a high school senior inadvertently pushes his parents

It could be questioned why Sam’s character ended up being male and not female. In an article from Autism Speaks, it is noted that boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls. This could have been a large factor in the writer’s creative choices for the storyline of the show.

Even with a normal storyline, the introduction of Sams autism establishes a bigger theme that is ever present throughout each season. The storyline of Sam’s autism definitely makes the show different from just another family comedy show. Nonetheless, we are still not seeing enough representation of people on the autism spectrum in mainstream media. A Teen Vogue article about autism representation states there simply aren’t enough portrayals of autistic women in the mainstream media. As a result, the few characters that are autistic represent all autistic women.

‘Atypical’ presents the topic of Autism in a very simple way that makes Sam’s character almost relatable, and someone the viewer can easily empathize with, but not necessarily in a sad way. After watching the first few episodes the show, it’s almost impossible not to binge watch the show in its entirety.

The writers have done a great job of showcasing some of the issues that people with autism experience in our

society. In an episode from season 2, Sam goes out of his comfort zone and decides to have a sleepover at his friend’s house. After becoming overwhelmed with the experience he decides to leave his friend’s house in the middle of the night without letting him know. According to a list of facts and figures from Autism Speaks, “nearly half of those with autism wander or bolt from safety,” so this decision to leave the safety of his friends home in the middle of the night makes sense. Soon after leaving the house, Sam gets stopped by a police officer who tries to get his attention. This causes the officer to get impatient yell at Sam, which can be sensory overload for a person with autism. Sam’s friend catches up to him and tries to explain that Sam has autism, but the officer doesn’t listen and arrests both of them.

The writers did a great job at turning this scene into a learning opportunity for the officer in question, as well as the audience. Their solution was to put Sam’s picture in the police station so a similar situation could be avoided in the future. According to Spectrum News, “Encounters between law enforcement and people with autism often go wrong, but some police departments are beginning to train their officers.” This can give hope to individuals with autism that they will be treated correctly regardless of their diagnosis.

The show does a great job at portraying what a person with autism will experience in their life. It is important to embrace those who might be struggling and understand what they go through.

Music festivals can encourage drug abuse

OLIVIA WILLIAMS

STAFF WRITER

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usic festivals, raves and EDM (electronic dance music) concerts have become increasingly popular throughout the recent years, with the use of drugs accompanying many of the so-called “ravers.” The misuse of these drugs, with the most common one known as MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine), Molly or Ecstacy, can cause serious health complications and possibly lead to death when someone takes more than a usual dosage.

According to the 2016 World Drug Report published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, over 1 million people in the United States admitted to using MDMA regularly and some 37% of clubgoers admitted to having taken it at a club in 2016. The drug is typically taken in pill form and usually lasts 3 to 6 hours, with effects being decreased inhibition, increased energy, emotional changes and often boosts to the person’s self-esteem. The increased blood pressure and heart rate that comes with taking MDMA are highly concerning factors that can be very dangerous in large doses or for those with heart problems.

Unfortunately, this danger became a reality for 15-year-old Jackson Gibbons when he took an overdose of Ecstasy at an under-18s rave in Bristol, United Kingdom. At the time of his death, Gibbons “had six times what would be considered a ‘safe’ level of the drug in his blood and was seen shaking violently and struggling to breathe,” according to a DailyMail report on the overdose. At first, he was losing his balance, his body was vibrating and he could not talk properly. With a history of defiance with his parents, he told his friend to not call and tell them what was going on because Gibbons didn’t want them to know where he was.

Over the course of an hour, his reactions to the three strong pills became severe enough to make his friend, who was also on drugs and not thinking coherently, finally call an ambulance.

Assistant Coroner Dr. Simon Fox recorded Gibbons’ cause of death as toxic effects of MDMA/ Ecstasy. At such a young age, his death is a tragic story that could have been prevented and should never happen to anyone. These club drugs have not been shown to cause an actual chemical dependence in most users but do present other risks relating to anxiety, depression, paranoia and panic attacks.

Although it’s not a crime to enjoy going to raves and EDM concerts, the risk of misusing these mindaltering substances at these events is something we should be looking out for and trying to avoid. Ingesting unknown substances into your body can be a risky game and you want to make sure you’re doing it in the right way. Be careful not to take more than what is considered “appropriate” for recreational use.

Most deaths involving MDMA also typically involve other intoxicants like alcohol or cocaine, according to the Desert Hope American Addiction Centers Treatment Facility. Mixing these substances is never a good idea and will most likely end up with a bad outcome, and even be fatal. Avoiding these risk factors can help people safely enjoy the rave without worrying about what might go wrong.

Checking in on friends and using the buddy system can be beneficial and ensure that everyone is safe.

“Us” thriller a result of when the hungry and homeless have had enough

SUNDAY SIMON STAFF WRITER

“Us” written by the new king of suspense, Jordan Peele, is a chilling story about a family embarking on a dark journey to Santa Cruz as unexplainable situations start to arise upon their arrival to the boardwalk. There are many theories about the overall meaning to the movie, but could the underlying message be a warning to the United States to take care of our homeless hunger crisis?

One of the many recurring references in the movie is Hands Across America.

The main action that symbolized the

movement was for people to hold hands literally across the country to stop hunger.

Ken Kragen, the creator of Hands Across America as well as We Are The World commented on the inspiration of the event on the Oprah show saying, “...it’s time for America: we gotta do something here. It’s nice to take care of the rest of the world, but we’ve got our own problems here to deal with.” Held on May 25th, 1986, a recorded 6.5 million people linked hands.

People paid 10 dollars to be part of the human chain. They gave 15 million to charities that help fight homelessness.

According to statistics given by Endhomelessness.org, in California alone, 129,972 people experienced homelessness last year. That’s 33 people for 10,000 people in the general population. Within the top 10 states with high homeless rates, California places at number 1 while Illinois places tenth with 10,643 homeless people. In terms of the hungry, one in six children is facing hunger in the U.S. The federal poverty level was $25,750 for a family of four last year, and more than 12 million children live in food insecure

homes, according to No Kid Hungry.

Hunger and homelessness are often intertwined, making it harder for people living in the streets to get the help that they need.

The supposed villains of the movie, the tethered, represent a group of people that have been forgotten and placed underground while their originals lived above them. Red speaks to Adelaide about how the tethered chose her to be their leader, to lead them to their freedom. In the movie, there is a man with a piece of cardboard that says Jerimiah 11:11. This bible verse from the old testament chapter, it says “Therefore thus saith the Lord, behold, I will bring evil upon them, which they shall not be able to escape; and though they shall cry unto me, I will not hearken unto them.”

Essentially, they are disenfranchised, having to survive off of raw rabbit and never talking. It’s the blind leading the blind. Red had humanized her fellow tethered, by stating that they and those living above had the same anatomy that did the same things the body does. We have fingers, toes, we feel and we bleed.

As the family is driving away along the highway, the tethered are shown holding hands in a line, side by side, over hills and valleys, being filmed from above by news helicopters. It can be inferred that they do the gesture to mock the initiative of Hands Across America, as Peele says about the event, “Hands Across America was this idea of America optimism and hope, and Ronald Reagan--style-we-canget-things-done-if-we-just-holds-hands.

It’s a great gesture,but you can’t actually cure hunger and all that.” The result is in the tethered taking the power into their hands to earn their freedom and live in the outside world.

People can only take so much before they lash out. Our country has had homeless and hungry people for a long time.

There are those that are struggling to survive, whether young or old, male or female or non-binary. It’s important that we are aware of our privileges, the roofs over our head, the clothes on our backs, and the food on our plates. You never know who is willing to do anything to take your place above ground.

4 News

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Student crashes into 7-Eleven

GILLIAN CHAFFER OPINION EDITOR

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n Saturday, April 13, at 7 a.m.,Sonoma State student Alex Poltoratskiy, 19, crashed into the 7-Eleven across from Sonoma State, shattering a storefront window.

Nobody was injured in the accident.

Poltoratskiy was arrested for driving under the inf luence after he displayed “objective symptoms of alcohol intoxication” and taken to Sonoma County Jail, according to a press release by Rohnert Park Public Safety.

He was released after posting $10,000 bail.

When emergency personnel arrived at the scene, they found Poltoratskiy standing outside of his crashed 2012 Nissan Altima.

“He was calm, and complied, despite the circumstances,” Sgt. Nick Labonte told the Press Democrat.

According to the store’s surveillance footage, there were customers inside of the building minutes before the crash.

Poltoratskiy was not driving unusually fast, and he appeared to be pulling into the parking lot but did not stop in time before crashing, police told the Press Democrat.

A building inspector for the city of Rohnert Park determined that the building will remain closed until the storefront made of glass is replaced and the store is clean and safe enough for customers. The store has since reopened with wood covering where the glass was broken.

COURTESY // Rohnert Park Public Safety Rohnert Park police shared this photofrom before the glass and merchandise was cleaned up.

Disability Awareness Month continues at SSU JACOB LOHER STAFF WRITER

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isability Awareness Month has been celebrated for over 10 years at Sonoma State University by students, Disability Advisors, and those that live with disabilities every day. The remaining on-campus events will take place from April 16 through April 25, all held in the Student Center, The HUB, and even at the climbing wall.

Neurodiversity is just one of the many ideas that is explored regarding the identity of those living with a disability. “Students are always the best source of how they learn,” Senior Disability Management Advisor Christy Giambastiani expressed last week to a packed classroom interested in Neurodiversity.

Neurodiversity is just one concept that regards individuals with differences in brain function and behavioral traits. “Neurodiversity is really looking at not so much to cure it but to really express who they are as an identity and as a population,” Giambastiani said.

Neurodiversity is a social identity and shows who everyone is as a population. The concept branched out from the ideas of Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, but it has expanded to a representation of different abilities rather than disabilities in a larger population.

Insights from college faculty on Neurodiversity include social groups, critical thinking, and structure.

“Since the Neurodiversity movement was created with the idea of autism specifically there are some organizations that support research and different things related to autism and their goal is to cure autism and the response from individuals is we do not want to be cured because this our identity, it’s who we are,” Giambastiani said.

Learning is a universal platform that is available to everyone. The Universal Design for Learning has been adapted by Disabilities Services for Students.

Digital materials are great resources many professors use inside the classroom. One of the types of Universal Design for Learning is the representative example.

“With the representation piece making sure that if you are doing a video you want to make sure that it is captioned in case someone has a hearing impairment then they are not excluded from being able to access that material,” Giambastiani said.

Captioning is also a very important part of digital media use in the classroom. All media that is produced by the IT department is captioned by members of DSS. “We caption the events that happen on campus and the class lectures, and then we upload them to Youtube,” said Accessibility Specialist Stephanie Graham.

The accessible media center is responsible for making an inclusive classroom environment for stu-

dents with disabilities. “It’s not just for somebody with a disability, and I would love to break the stigma of the idea that someone has to have a disability to use these services,” said Graham.

Captioning can be useful for students who are learning English as a second language as well. This service comes from the Accessible Media Center and is available to all students. Faculty members are constantly calling the center and asking for help on adding the captions to their digital media.

Students are also able to email the accessible media center and ask for assistance. Audio descriptions are also a part of the captioning process and can be very useful for those who have been diagnosed with blindness. Audio descriptions describe the picture currently appearing on the screen.

“Seawolf living make a ton of videos and they broadcast onto Lobo vision and, because of the area, you really can’t hear a lot of the audio, so they automatically caption anything that goes on Lobo vision,” said Graham.

Disability Awareness Month continues throughout all of April with events occurring daily on campus in order for students to gain insight on the topics of their interest.

Disability services for students continue to make accommodations for all their students in order to provide the most useful learning experience.

Graduate Business programs gets new director MANDELA LINDER STAFF WRITER

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onoma State University welcomes a new executive school and received her MBA in sustainable enterprise can have, specifically through business. Business drives director of Graduate Business programs, Soo Hay- that her enthusiasm for education was sparked. “I was everything in the world.” lett. Haylett had been at Sonoma State for over four working at Dow Jones a few years back, and I wanted to Haylett said one way that business has a positive imyears as program manager in the same department before change direction to do something a little more meaning- pact is through sustainability. She has done work to help taking over her new role in March. She replaced former ful,” she said. “I went into the MBA program myself, and promote sustainable business in the bay area, including executive director John Stayton, who left the position to in that I realized the real power and impact that education helping businesses see the benefits of adopting sustainfocus on consulting and management of his able practices. “In this day, it’s become just family business. good business practice to be sustainable,” she “I’m excited because it aligns with my said. “But what we try to show them is the fipassion, which is to help with the growth and nancial benefits. For instance, reducing their transformation of our leaders, so that they can energy bill.” bring a positive impact to the world through It is Haylett’s love of nature that drives business,” Haylett said. her passion for sustainability. “Bottom line, Originally from South Africa, Haylett nature and the earth I care deeply about,” she has experience with technology, sustainabilsaid. “We can’t just take from the earth, we ity, and education. Growing up, Haylett was need to be very smart about it so we can concommitted to dance, attending an art ballet tinue to use it. The earth provides a place for music school and then the London Contempous to live, and without that we won’t be able to rary Dance School. continue.”

At the age of 21, her fascination with othHaylett plans to improve the graduate er cultures inspired her to go travelling. She’s business program at Sonoma State by staying been to Asia, India, Nepal, Thailand, Europe, relevant, keeping up on what is happening in and South America. “I love to meet other the job market, and by increasing utilization of people and see other ways of doing things, available technology. it’s such an eye-opener,” Haylett said. “DifAnother way Haylett plans to improve the ferent ways of being and seeing the world are program is through faculty involvement. “How all valid.” can we reinvigorate [the MBA program]?” she It was when Haylett discovered technolsaid. “I think a lot of that comes from our facogy that her passion shifted from dance, and ulty. How can we make the courses that are through technology her interest in business available really relevant and exciting? I defigrew. “In my day not everybody even had an nitely want to collaborate with the instructors email,” she said. “I remember when email first on that because I’m not a faculty member. came out, at the time it was amazing and I saw They are the ones that bring their expertise.” the power and the possibilities… It was tech“Soo Haylett’s collaborative and inclunology that got me into business.” sive approach with faculty, staff, and students, Before coming to Sonoma State, Haylett commitment to excellence in student learning consulted for Autodesk and San Francisco’s and program development, and data-driven Department of the Environment. She develapproach to decision-making make her an exoped and led programs for Venture Greencellent fit for the trajectory and goals of the house, a business incubator at Dominican SBE’s Graduate and Executive Programs,” COURTESY // Sonoma State University stated Karen Thompson, interim dean of the University, and managed projects and teams Soo Haylett, above, has worked for Sonoma State for over four for MarketWatch and Dow Jones.

School of Business and Economics, on the It was when Haylett attended graduate years as program manager within the same department.

Sonoma State website.

News 5

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

New hearing policy for sexual assault cases KASEY WILLIAMS NEWS EDITOR

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s of March 29, Sonoma State has implemented changes to its sexual assault policy as part of a CSU-wide executive order to establish a hearing procedure for sexual assault cases.

Hearings will involve the victim and the accused, with a hearing officer determining the outcome of the case.

The new procedures apply to cases of alleged student sexual misconduct when, if substantiated, they could result in expulsion or suspension, and the credibility of any party or witness is central to the finding Hearing officers are provided by the CSU and “are highly trained, vetted individuals who will serve as neutral parties and oversee the hearings,” said Sarah Clegg, Sonoma State’s Title IX Director.

Also present at hearing can be the parties’ respective advisors, one support person per party, appropriate witnesses while they are testifying; the Student Conduct Administrator; the Title IX Coordinator or designee; campus police; and the hearing coordinator.

“Our office understands and acknowledges that these changes are significant, and I will not minimize the impact or concern they could have on some members of the campus,” Clegg said.

Prior to the changes, in the event that someone was accused of a sexual assault, a neutral investigator would handle the case and issue their findings to

the Title IX, who would in turn make the “final determination about whether CSU policy was violated,” Clegg said.

“Change is to be expected in the area of Title IX, as the national climate on this topic is always evolving,” said Clegg. “I acknowledge, however, that these changes may cause concern or distress and am very open to continue dialogue around how best to support all SSU community members involved in the Title IX process.”

The case attributed to this change, Doe v. Allee, involved a University of Southern California football player who had accused his school’s Title IX director of failing to hire a neutral third party to question his accuser and witnesses.

On Jan. 4, Superior Court Judge Howard L. Halm and the California Court of Appeals found “gaps” in the Title IX case review process, enough to rule in favor of the revamped policy change.

Although the changes may seem daunting to someone who is thinking of coming forward, Clegg is adamant that these changes should not deter those who have been assaulted.

“If individuals choose not to pursue a complaint due to the extensiveness of the process, our office will work to provide alternate resolution options, support resources, and interim remedies where appropriate,” she said.

Up until the final ruling, all 23 schools within the

CSU system halted their ongoing investigations pertaining to sexual assaults in the wake of Doe v. Allee.

Another policy change within this ruling allows for the accused and the accuser to draft “unresolved questions” about the other’s witnesses, which would then be asked in-person by an appointed hearing officer. This does not require either party to attend, however, as they can opt to attend the hearing remotely.

“No one is required to participate in a hearing, but the lack of participation may have an impact on the information available for the Hearing Officer to consider and, therefore, the final determination,” Clegg said.

Although the accused or the accuser may choose not to attend the hearing, neither will be penalized.

The accused will not have been found to have violated policy based entirely on whether or not they attend the hearing and, contrarily, the accused will not have been found not to have violated policy if the accuser chooses not to attend.

There is always the option for early resolution if the parties do not want to an investigation and hearing, Clegg said.

“There is a point in the investigation process where an early resolution can be substituted for a report and a hearing, if all parties agree,” she said.

The revised orders are effective as of March 29, but apply to any case that was open as of January 2019.

Archie elected president

ASHLEY GIESEKE STAFF WRITER

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reana Archie has been elected as Sonoma State’s 2019-2020 Associated Students president by a 252-207 vote.

“I first want to say thank you to all of the students who voted for me and trusted in my leadership abilities,” said Archie, a third year sociology major.

She said it made her feel like her life at Sonoma State has come full circle.

She ran for president because she wanted to increase diversity on campus, and give students more of a voice on real problems like mental health.

“The experiences I have been through validate my life purpose to advocate for all the students,” she said.

“My hope for my presidency is to be the bridge for student success here at Sonoma. It is not just about me and my title, but it is for the benefits of the students,” said Archie.

With that being said, she believes she is more than ready to take on this new experience.

Archie follows in the footsteps of Carley Chatterley, the 20182020 AS president.

Chatterley said exiting her presidency is a bittersweet moment, and she is hopeful for many great accomplishments to come in the next year.

“I am happy to graduate and pursue my dreams but sad to leave a position that has granted me such amazing opportunities and mentors,” said Chatterley.

“My hopes for Breana would be that she accomplishes everything she wants to during her term, and that she continues to build off of the relationships that I have forged this year. I know she is capable of amazing things,” she said.

Leonel Alejandre Navarro, the runner-up in the election, took the loss in stride. “I’m happy I got to run against Breana and I’m looking forward to what happens next,” he said.

Navarro, a sophomore, said, “I’m feeling good.

I’m extremely grateful for the experience, and really enjoyed the whole process from getting signatures, to the debate, and ultimately, the results.”

Also elected in uncontested affairs were Aracely Duron for Chair of the Senate with 438 votes and Arden Childers for Vice President of Finance with 417

NEWS IN BRIEF France

As construction continued Monday on the Notre Dame Cathetral in Paris, a fire suddenly burst from underneath, ultimately collapsing the historic spire and spreading towards its iconic, rectangular towers. It has not been made clear what exactly caused the fire, but city officials were deeming it an accident. No injuries and no deaths had been reported by late Monday night.

Georgia

For the first time in 14 years, Tiger Woods has won The Masters, a tournament which he had previously won four times. It is Woods’ first Major win on the PGA Tour since 2008. Since then, he has battled a very public divorce, substance abuse, and multiple back surgeries that had threatened to derail his career completely as recently as 2017.

Texas

A series of storms over the weekend throughout the South, from Texas to Mississippi, left eight people dead and extensively damaged buildings and powerlines. More than 250,000 customers, with the largest concentration in Pennsylvania and Virginia, are without power due to high winds and storm advisories. The storm front had reached the Atlantic Ocean by late Monday.

Santa Rosa

A shooting late on Sunday wounded two men and riddled a car with bullets near Coddingtown Mall, witnesses said. They were driven by friends to the hospital to be treated for serious, non-life-threatening injuries. The shooting took place outside a strip mall on Guerneville Road across from the shopping mall.

CAMPUS CRIME Crime

Date

Location

Status

Rape w/ Penetration

March 30

Tuscany

Open

Sexual Assault

April 5

Residential Community

Open

Sexual Assault

April 7

Residential Community

Open

Battery on Person

April 11

Traminer Dorms

Referred to DA

6 Arts

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Choral community continues to serenade DEVON PIQUE STAFF WRITER

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n April 26, the Green Music Center will be filled by the sound of harmonious voices as the Sonoma State Symphonic Chorus and Sonoma State Concert Choir perform at a combined event in Schroeder Hall. The vocal ensembles will be showcasing their individual sets that they have been hard at work preparing for.

“We have been practicing these songs all semester,” Concert Choir bass Joshua Lovell said. “It’s been challenging but I feel like we’re all ready.”

On top of all the hard work they have put in, the choirs have added a unique twist to both of their repertoires by having a song that adds a level of interaction with the audience, something that is sure to peak the interest of the crowd.

“In our first song, we will be standing around the audience,” Symphonic member August Perez said.

“There will be sopranos, and then altos, and then tenors, and then basses all standing in a circle around Schroeder Hall. Instead of just standing on stage and singing, we’ll be surrounding the whole audience.”

While the Symphonic Chorus plans to envelop the

audience in beautiful sound, the Concert Choir added a different fun spin to their set. The vocal ensemble will be performing a song in “complete gibberish” as described by Lovell. The song, “Nyon Nyon”, is not performed in any real language. Instead, members will be making different sounds and noises in harmony.

“We have a song that’s a lot more interactive, like we’re not just standing there still, almost boring,” Concert Choir member Cristian Ramirez said. “We actually have this ‘Nyon Nyon’ piece where there’s stomping, clapping, and a lot of sounds you make out of your mouth. Not like, noise, but there’s popping and stuff like that. It’s all over the place and I think it’s really enjoyable.”

“Gibberish” is not the only language these choirs have had to tackle for their sets. There are a total of four languages represented in this concert including English, Latin and German. Some of these foreign songs include “Sanctus”, “Heillig” and “Verleih uns Frieden Gnädiglich.” Certainly this adds a level of difficulty and may have presented some challenges for the choral groups, especially considering an increased level of complexity in the pieces compared to last semester. However, this is

nothing that could not be overcome.

“It has been somewhat trying with the different languages and difficulty of the pieces,” said Symphonic Chorus tenor Brendan Corr, “We have been practicing the languages a lot and although it is difficult to sing with a different language, I personally enjoy it very much.”

Another important aspect of this event is a Sonoma State alumni coming to sing with the Symphonic Chorus. He will be highlighted during his solo in the finale, Five Mystical Songs by Ralph Vaughan Williams.

“We have a really good baritone soloist named Rodrigo Castillo,” said Perez, “He’s going to be singing in our Ralph Vaughan Williams piece. He is amazing, like he has the most amazing, powerful baritone voice.”

The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. and runs for approximately two hours. Tickets are $8 for the general public but Sonoma State students and faculty can attend the performance for free. Everyone is encouraged to come support the choirs and have a good time.

“All I can say is that if you want to hear beautiful music sung by college students and community members then you should come.” Corr said.

STAR // Brandon Sparks Schroeder Hall will be home to both the Symphonic chorus and Concert Choir for the April 26 concert.

El Salvador in Sonoma: Pupuseria Salvadorena Review

JULIANNA FERRARA

STAFF WRITER

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npretentious, nondescript, the kind of place people think of when they want the “real deal” or a “hole in the wall” eatery that only the locals know about. Located right across the street from the Sonoma County Fairgrounds at 1403 Maple Ave. in Santa Rosa, Pupuseria Salvadorena dish up the exotic ingredients of Central American and Mayan culture.

It’s a family atmosphere. The bare essentials give it a down to earth vibe with walls decorated by maps of El Salvador, flags and scenic photographs of the country’s landscape. A view from the front desk gives you a tiny glimpse of a grassroots kitchen where ladies are warming and shaping masa together for one of the restaurant’s most acclaimed plates.

Authentic El Salvadorian comfort food is mostly known for their pupusas. An imperfectly circled, chubby tortilla made from cornmeal and stuffed with anything from cheese to refried beans, squash and chicharron.

Every pupusa is served with a side of cabbage and three different salsas to choose from, all pouring from what looks like syrup containers. Make no mistake, you’re not doing it right if you’re aren’t drenching these with all four side ingredients. There are multiple varieties to

choose from on the menu, and it should be noted that a little goes a long way. Pupusas will fill you up, and even better, they’re no more than $3 a piece.

There’s something that feels so new and exciting about ordering from a menu that’s not in your first language, in fact, this is a great environment to practice your Spanish. Don’t get confused when that enchilada you ordered is served open-faced made with a hard-shell tortilla topped with shredded chicken, potatoes, carrots, green beans, cheese and avocado. The crispy tortillas are presented with toppings as opposed to fillings compared to enchiladas you would see at a Mexican restaurant. Delicious nonetheless and makes for quite a tasty and spontaneous adventure.

Attracting foodies, locals, students and families alike, the menu, although in Spanish, has some English translation for the dishes themselves. The menu is categorized by “Antojitos Salvadoreños” or “Salvadorian Specialties” which is where newcomers are suggested to ponder before ordering - this also includes empanadas, tamales and “pasteles” or pastries listed after the pupusa varieties. “Sopas/Soup”, “Speciales/Specials”, and “Desayunos/Breakfast” are certainly worth exploring if perhaps you’ve had pupusas before and are feeling a little adventurous. Mayan and El Salvadorian cuisine typi-

cally use ingredients like corn, plantains, masa, refried beans, pork and loroco which is a native edible flower indigenous to Mexico and Central America especially in Guatemala and El Salvador.

The stars of the show are definitely the pupusas, which also offer a selection of vegetarian options as other frequently used Central American ingredients include squash and spinach. This establishment has been around for over 10 years, and it’s no small wonder why.

Still one of Sonoma County’s best kept secrets, this is not the kind of place where you get your food within five minutes of ordering, and for a good reason. Every single plate ordered is being made from scratch, and it is obvious.

Definitely, if you’re in the mood to try something new on a budget, this is where you can treat yourself.

First timers should try their “pupusa de chicharron, queso y frijoles” (pork, cheese, and beans), “pupusa y loroco”, and “pupusa, calabaza y espinaca” (cheese, squash and spinach).

Humble and slightly tucked away, Pupuseria Salvadorena is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m and guests are able to order food to go of course. However, you definitely get the full cultural experience if you dine in.

SSU introduces new online literary magazine TERESA GULLI

STAFF WRITER

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rand new to Sonoma State University, Flux is an online literary magazine that is set to debut in Fall 2019 where it welcomes students across majors.

This club will feature three areas of content which include, art, creative writing & poetry and “the Grey Area.”

The content may be submitted by students, faculty and alumni, making this an open club. By making this club open for submission, it will provide diversity to the magazine.

Flux will not only focus on the artistic side of the campus, but will also offer an opportunity for writers to express their opinions on politics and takes on campus controversy.

“My goal is to encourage political debate on college campuses and to maximize our academic freedoms as much as possible,” said Noelle Dahl, the founder of Flux Magazine. “With this being said, Flux Magazine encourages students to not only have a discussion about criticisms they may encounter on our campus, but instead offer a solution in order to rectify these issues.”

What sets Flux apart from the Sonoma State Star and Volt is “the Grey Area” section of the magazine.

It will bring the opportunity to dive into any campus controversies, independent investigations,

interviews with faculty and staff and student political opinion pieces with full transparency. This section is intended to bring freedom of expression and honesty to the articles.

Dahl, as he Arts & Humanities senator, realized the need for for Flux, wen she saw how much creativity and open conversation between faculty, staff and students was not fully represented by any other campus media outlet.

“Noelle envisioned Flux, an online magazine featuring stories, art and poetry, as well as political commentary,” said Arts & Humanities Dean Hollis Robbins, who pushed for the creation of this club said. “As Flux welcomes submissions from everybody from professors to parking and facilities staff, the magazine feature voices more diverse and inclusive than any other campus publication.”

The structure of Flux will consist of writers that submit one article a week, always verifying facts.

The editors position includes compiling submissions, managing staff, and deciding which articles best fit the weekly issue.

Also, articles will get checked for reasonable and appropriate content. It is expected that there will be weekly meeting.

There have been two informational meetings this semester. The purpose of the meetings were to listen to the students wants, needs, and feedback. Discus-

sion moved quickly across the room when passionate students were sitting side by side expressing their ideas to Dahl.

Perhaps the highest in demand is an entertainment section. which was mentioned by numerous students during the initial meetings. The entertainment section is expected to land under the creative writing category. Students agreed that the inclusion of a more lighter toned entertainment portion will help to balance the serious tone of “the Grey Area” and reach a larger audience of readers.

“I believe Flux will be an incredible outlet for genuine, honest discussion and debate from the voices of our students. I am so excited by positive and enthusiastic responses it’s already received, and I can’t wait to see the impact it continues to have,” sophomore at Sonoma State sophomore Sara Stoner said.

“This campus is so full of diverse opinions and ideas, but they can so easily become stif led by the majority opinion. We are long overdue for a platform to speak honestly on, and I believe Flux will be just that.”

Flux is open to add more sections and additional ideas to the club. For any questions or ideas, email Flux at thef luxmagazine@gmail.com, or follow or direct message @f luxssu.

Stay connected on their social media pages for the launch of the website and more informational meetings in Fall 2019.

Entertainment 7

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Student Spotlight of the Week:

Alexandra Giovanetti

KAITLYN BRADLEY

F

STAFF WRITER

ollowing her love for dance and taking on a new experience, transfer student Alexandra Giovanetti found her perfect place at Sonoma State University in 2017. She wanted a change for her next college experience and feels she accomplished that here.

“The campus is beautiful and I wanted to move somewhere new and different to get out of my comfort zone of staying in the same place,” Giovanetti said. “I have found great people here and I am so glad I made the choice to come to Sonoma State.”

Giovanetti is a Theatre Arts & Dance major with a concentration in Dance and is a senior this year.

Her love for dance started back at just the young age of 9 years old. She has been dancing for 13 years.

“My mom put me in a hip hop class when I was 9, thinking I would probably enjoy it knowing my background being on stage in choir and doing gymnastics.

I ended up absolutely loving it,” Giovanetti said.

Giovanetti has had a lot of favorite memories from dancing all these years, but her favorite would probably have to be performing in competitions with her hip hop crew. She performs different styles of dance but her favorite would be hip hop.

“My favorite part about dancing is the chance to express myself through my movement whether others understand what I am expressing or not,” Giovanetti said. “It is a great way to let out all of my emotions in a healthy way, through a physical way, and it is amazing what the body can do.”

Since being at Sonoma State, Giovanetti has been in four different dance shows, including this year’s Spring Dance. Through these experiences, she grew very close with her professors and show directors Christine Cali and Kristen Daley.

“They have helped me push myself to find my full potential, especially this semester,” Giovanetti said.

Getting ready for the spring show in a couple weeks, Giovanetti is very excited, especially to

perform Christine Cali’s number GTS. It is a very physical number that is about urgency in life.

Even though she loves performing, she does feel the nerves and anxiousness before going on stage. Once she hits the stage and gets one piece done though, she’s ready for more.

“I have many great memories creating this show, but my favorite would have have to be creating friendships and getting to know the awesome dancers I get to share the stage with,” Giovanetti said. “We have all worked so hard COURTESY // James Wirth on this show, I hope evSenior Dance Major Alexandra Giovanetti dancing along in preparation eryone takes a chance for Spring Dance 2019. to come see it, it’s going to be great.”

One friends that made her time here so memo- She knows what she wants and doesn’t let anything rable is second year Dance major and Early Child- stop her,” Leong said. “She is such a strong dancer, and I was lucky enough to be apart of her first fall hood Studies minor Brandon Leong.

Leong and Giovanetti first became friends when dance piece at Sonoma State last year.”

After graduating, Giovanetti would like to teach they met last year at a Theater Arts meet and greet dance in her hometown in the Placerville area. She for transfer students. Being the only two dance mawants to keep learning and growing as a dancer as jors there, they bonded quickly and have been friends well, continue to take classes and hopefully, continue ever since. to perform.

“My favorite part about Alexandra is her drive.

Seawolves SPEAK! “What song or album is going to help you get through finals?”

JESSICA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

A

s the end of the semester quickly nears, Sonoma State University students feel the rising tension as they begin to prepare for finals. Whether a freshman or super senior, the threat of overworked all-nighters looms near.

This time of the year can bring tremendous amounts of stress and anxiety to students. Many people have different methods of coping with stress and different

ways of meditation. However, a large population of Seawolves see themselves turn ing to something we overlook everyday, music.

Music is a great for people to escape from reality and the hardships they’re dealing with and gain some peace of mind. Around Sonoma State, students have found music to be their outlet after a long class or a full day of studying.

“‘What Time Is It’ from ‘High School Musical 2,’ because it captures the excitement summer brings.”

“I will be listening to ‘Party in the USA’ by Miley Cyrus, because I will be dancing my way through finals.”

-Anoosha Chari

-Reagan Chambers

“‘Shoot to Thrill’ by AC/DC, because it pumps me up and keeps me motivated especially through the trying times of finals.”

“Definitely the new Khalid album ‘Free Spirit,’ because he’s amazing and gets me through everything.”

-Lily Dutra

-Ava Garcia

“‘I Will Survive’ by Gloria Gaynor will get me through finals, because when I feel like giving up, it reminds myself that I will survive.”

-Carson Fields

“P-Lo’s ‘More Than Anything,’ because it’s a classic, and I’m trying to pass more than anything.”

-Luis Barajas

8 Student Life

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

STAR // Kayla Allen Sonoma State University’s Improve group, Improvaholics, during one of their Friday night meetings in Ives Hall.

Club Spotlight: The Improvaholics SAMANTHA BILLINGSLY

STAFF WRITER

H

eading down to the basement of Ives Hall on a Friday at midnight may sound slightly odd, however, those who do are in for a treat.

Sonoma State University’s Improvaholics club hosts an improv show every other Friday, and the next show will be held on April 26 at midnight in Ives 101.

The show consists of the students from the club performing comedy sketches to other students, faculty, or anyone else that comes to the free show.

Christian Jorgensen, president of the club, jokingly invites people to the show by asking, “You wanna come hang out in the asbestos filled basement at midnight?

I swear we’re not a cult!”

The show is a great outlet for students who enjoy light hearted comedy as both the audience and actors. Those who go to

the biweekly meetings have a chance at participating in the improv show.

Ailya Bacal Peterson, the current treasurer of the club, described the feeling of being on stage during a show as having, “a unique sort of adrenaline that goes along with getting on stage having no idea what you’re going to say or do, but knowing that those on stage with you will fully support whatever you do and vise versa.”

However, the main focus of Sonoma State’s Improvaholics is to teach the students different improv techniques, such as pantomiming, creating different characters, and thinking on their feet.

“The club is a combination of theatre sports, improvised scenes, and workshops to improve one’s skills.” Jorgensen said.

“Overall, the club is a fun place to leave your worries for a two hour block and participate in some comedy improv.”

The relaxed atmosphere gives the

members a welcoming space for testing out different comedic techniques, and the members are encouraged to always try something new on stage.

The Improvaholics club meets in Ives 34 every Wednesday from 7 - 9 p.m., then on Friday from 5 -7 p.m., with a show every other Friday. The club usually starts with a few group warm up games, goes to four people scenes, and then concludes with a final group activity.

Wednesdays are known as ‘Workshop Wednesdays’ where the main goal behind the games is to help create characters for improv, work on character voices, and more. During the sketches, the club president writes down notes on each of the participating members on what they did well on, and what they can improve on.

“I took Christian’s suggestions, and I’ve gotten better. I think I’m much more confident in myself, not just in my ability

to be funny, but just in general like with social confidence.” said Megan Tripp, future treasurer of the club.

Friday meetings are less set on improving the members skills, and more of having fun after a long week. The club welcomes new members, however no outside experience is necessary. The members are very friendly with one another.

“The club encourages participation and cooperation so it was easy to bond with the other people in the club, and it makes you feel like a big family.” Freshman Sarah Williams said.

The family atmosphere in the club helps support the members in more than just the club, and creates life long friends.

The club currently has a facebook page, SSU Improvaholics, which posts the dates of upcoming shows as well as photos from the shows.

Event promotes disability awareness ETHAN PRINS

STAFF WRITER

S

onoma State University is celebrating over 10 years of Disability Awareness, and during the month of April a myriad of events will take place in order to honor the school’s contribution to a world of diversity.

Amidst these occasions of student affairs lies a certain illuminating panel that took place on Tuesday, April 16— “A Conversation on Career Opportunities and Services Provided to Individuals with Developmental Disabilities.”

Sonoma State Psychology Professor and Executive Director of Redwood Coast Regional Center, Rick Blumberg, anchored the discussion alongside the Executive Director of North Bay Regional Center, Gabriel Rogin.

The Redwood Coast Regional Center is a non-profit organization that “offers services and supports for children and adults with developmental disabilities who live in Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, and Mendocino Counties.” according to their website.

Blumberg specializes in Psychological Aspects of Disability and leads the center’s efforts to ensure inclusive communities throughout the region and upwards of. Disability Management Advisor Joanne Harris was able to provide insight on the event.

“Rick is so dynamic and incredibly knowledgeable; it was actually his idea to get another comrade who is also in charge of a regional center outside of Sonoma State University.”

Harris continued to expand on how the event was two-fold and held an abundance of talking points centering around what exactly regional centers do, and what sort of opportunities for employment lie ahead.

“They are bringing in two additional panel members—cultural specialists—who are going to talk to students about jobs regarding that field that may be of interest.” Harris said.

These include positions that ref lect the incredible history of California and

its act of providing services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“It is estimated that 1 in 6 Americans experiences a disability, and most of us at one time or another, will experience a disabling condition.” Blumberg said. “I think it is essential that students in the helping professions, or just about any field, have an awareness and sensitivity to the experience of people with differing abilities.”

Blumberg discussed efforts to reach out to underserved cultural communities, and the exciting use of innovative practices designed to build skills and improve quality of life. Both Blumberg and Rogin presented information about the variety of career opportunities in their work and how to prepare for them.

Disability Management Advisor Michael Eynon expanded on the basis of the event.

“I would consider it to be a field that is continuously growing. The autism spectrum is becoming more of a well known component—we are featuring that in a lot of our other disability awareness month pieces.”

Eynon then continued to discuss the gravity of the ability for an individual with a science-background to actually be able to work with this population as a profession.

Eynon seesthe professions as “pretty exciting when you get the chance to assist people during your day at work while associating the skills you’ve been mastering for years.”

Eynon added that the department already holds a couple classes connected to Services Provided to Individuals with Developmental Disabilities— there are a few Psychology classes with related content.

Eynon finished with his goal: “That we can continue to partner with the regional centers across the board, and even the Department of Rehabilitation. We want to connect outside agencies to Sonoma State so that individuals have more resources when surfing job opportunities.

COURTESY // Trevor Hoppe Queer Studies Lecture speaker Trevor Hoppe.

Criminalization of disease brought to light MADISON LAM STAFF WRITER

Trevor Hoppe visited Sonoma State University on Monday, April 15, to speak for the Queer Studies Lecture Series, put on by the Women’s and Gender Studies department every Monday.

Hoppe’s early college education began with earning his bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After graduating, he moved on to earning his Master of Arts at San Francisco State University in sexuality studies. In 2011, Hoppe earned his master’s of public health degree in health behavior and health education at the University of Michigan.

Trevor Hoppe gained his PhD in Sociology and Women’s Studies at the University of Michigan as well in 2014, where he began his research for his award winning book, “Punishing Disease: HIV and the Criminalization of Sickness.”

Hoppe discussed his research in the book during the lecture series as well as exploring how “HIV was transformed from sickness to badness under the criminal law and investigates the consequences of inflicting penalties on people

living with disease.”

Hoppe’s award winning book analyzes the rise of punitive and coercive responses to HIV. The book is a culmination of seven years of research than began during his doctoral studies at the University of Michigan.

“The big idea is that the criminal law is not an appropriate or effective tool to use to control a medical problem like infectious disease. During the AIDS panic of the 1980’s, many states passed poorly worded and overly broad criminal statutes that made it possible to punish people living with HIV for a variety of behaviors,” said Hoppe.

This was Hoppe’s sixteenth campus lecture and overall his twenty-third public talk about his book. His lecture brought light to the criminalization and mistreatment of those with HIV. “I think the national conversation on the war on drugs has attuned students to the fact that the criminal law isn’t always an effective solution to social problems. In the case of HIV criminalization, we have a similar story that deserves a similar social and political response. Fear, stigma, and countless ruined lives--for what?” Hoppe said.

Student Life 9

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Top 5 ways to exercise beyond the Rec JACK MESSIER STAFF WRITER

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s much of a convenience as the on-campus Recreation center, also known as the Rec, can be for some, it can also serve as a tedious, or exhausting workout in itself for many students to work into their ever-involved schedules.

Whether students find themselves living on or off-campus, especially, our alternative ways to “stay fit” are surprisingly just as abundant as the times you’ve likely found yourself waiting for

a machine or piece of equipment to use at the campus Rec. While the Campus Rec is certainly equipped to provide an impactful relationship for any type of body goal among SSU students, adding or, at the least, considering these elements will certainly segue to a more vibrant workout experience.

From seamless schedule integration, enjoyable cardio chances to methods that let you build new relationships with other people while simultaneously building your body, these under-theradar alternatives for common workouts are strong ways to “stay in shape” as a hyper-focused Rec routine weakens.

1: Join an athletics club 4: Purchase dumbbell sets

COURTESY // meyerPT

COURTESY // Sonoma State Rugby club The Sonoma State men’s rugby team.

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s Lars Thompson, a Geology major and Rugby club member at Sonoma State University, mainly advises to join a club for a more immersive exercise and “community” experience, he also notes, “Sonoma State really has a ton of athletic clubs to pick from which will keep you in great shape.” Thompson said. Sports clubs come in a wide variety with varying level of exercise and commitment. Some clubs include the Equestrian team, Noma baseball, Akido club and the Sapphires dance team.

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achary Taugher, a Biology major and member of the Baseball club at Sonoma State, asserts his fondness of “the in-home-workout dynamics” of his bench and dumbbell set ever since simply taking the time out to surf for options as cheap as they are surprisingly widespread.

Taugher adds, “the proper approach and inherent ease and immediacy associated with the workouts” is what ultimately outweighs one’s doubts on how intensive or incorporative a home workout it can really be. Dumbbells come in a variety of prices, colors and textures.

5: Run to the store

2: Utilize swimming pools

COURTESY // Sonoma State Univeristy The Beaujolais swimming pool.

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obert Chioino, another student and personal trainer across the bay area, highlights the “constant resistance the muscles of the body undergo from even simply walking around a pool,” and, upon going for a swim spurt, “the body’s joints also aren’t as taxed as much, compared to running or hiking long distances.”

With swimming being a fun and cardio-intensive workout, students who take advantage of the on-campus swimming pools--like Beaujolais village’s, with free swim times from 8 a.m. to midnight-- neighborhood community pools, or that of their friends, lend themselves to a surprisingly sweat-worthy experience.

COURTESY // meyerPT Oliver’s Market on Cotati Ave.

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or students living around campus, from A to M section and beyond, running around our local community becomes all more lively when the set-destination encompasses food to re-nourish us—a post workout essential, of course. Delicious destinations include Oliver’s Market, Sonoma Valley Bagel and Raley’s: each within a 3 mile radius of campus.

The reward at the end of the run isn’t the only benefit. According to Business Insider, “running can reduce stress, improve heart health, and even help alleviate symptoms of depression.”

3: Explore regional parks

COURTESY // Sonoma County Regional Parks One of Crane Creek Regional Park’s many trails.

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rom Crane Creek Regional Park to Dorotea Park, which has exercising stations among the myriad of paths to choose from, students can certainly enjoy the close proximity and intensity of these local hiking trails.

For those looking for added scenery, longer distances and more challening workouts, perhaps, Taylor Mountain and North Sonoma Mountain Regional parks surely foot the bill.

STUDENT LIFE CALENDAR Spring Dance Concert

Doggy Play Day

Performance in the Preserve

JUMP Earth Day Fair

Friday, April 19 7:30 P.M. Evert B. Person Theater

Saturday, April 20 11:30 A.M. Seawolf Plaza

Saturday, April 20 6 P.M. Fairfield Osborn Preserve

Monday, April 22 11 A.M. Seawolf Plaza

10 Sports

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

COURTESY // sonomaseawolves.com Senior Jensyn Warren prepares for a serve against Dominican University. She is currently ranked #16 in the country in singles.

Women’s tennis dominates on senior day JACKSON WALDRON STAFF WRITER

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he women’s tennis team defeated Cal State LA, Holy Names and Dominican to finish out their regular season. These wins brought the team to a 12-6 record before they play in their conference championship.

On Saturday, April 13 the Seawolves would face off against the Holy Names University Hawks. For seniors Clarisa Colling and Jensyn Warren, this would be their final home match. “It was sad that it was the last time I was going to be playing a match on those courts, but it was also amazing to have everyone there supporting me,” said Warren.

Warren is currently ranked at #16 nationally in singles play. She was able to defeat her singles opponent 6-2, 6-0 and then win 6-2 in doubles play with Carolyn Brooner.

In the two games over the weekend, Sonoma State won 17 out of 18 matches.

The Seawolves went on to win five out of six singles matches against the Hawks. They would then win all three doubles matches in the lopsided victory.

Seawolf Jenna DeTurk won her singles match in straight sets, both 6-0. “I thought I played a good match and it was good practice for the conference tournament,” said DeTurk.

DeTurk was paired with Hannah Highsmith for the #3 doubles slot and were able to win 6-1. Clarisa Colling and Carolina Alfonsin would also won their doubles match, 6-3.

In the win, Warren sustained an achilles injury and was unable to play in their match the next day at Dominican.

Clarisa Colling would step into the #1 slot for singles and put on a strong performance. Colling won the first set 6-3. She then swept the next set 6-0 against the Penguins top player.

The Seawolves came into the weekend ranked #30 nationally and solidified themselves as a top contender by finishing 12-6 overall. With a record of 4-14, the Dominican Penguins struggled to match the skill of the Seawolves. Sonoma State won all six of their singles matches.

DeTurk and Brooner would play as the top doubles pair, winning their match 6-2. The second and third doubles pairs would continue the strong play, winning 6-2 and 6-4.

Their regular season concluded and the team looks forward to the Pacific West Championships. The games will start on April 17 in Arizona.

The turnaround gives Warren a limited amount of time to heal from her achilles injury. “I am a bit nervous hoping it will heal in time to play 100% for the conference tournament. I am hopeful,” said Warren.

“I think we’re definitely ready, we beat Dominican 7-0 yesterday and we all played strong singles and doubles,” said DeTurk. “I’m excited to see how far we can take it this year.”

The team has played very well and has high hopes for their trip to Arizona.

They will be the #4 ranked team coming into the conference championship. Warren said, “As a team, I’m super excited and think we can make it to nationals. We are so close to beating the better teams and I am so excited to give it our 100%.”

Sports Schedule Wednesday April 17 Mens and Womens Tennis Pac West Conference in Surprise, AZ

Thursday April 18 Baseball vs. Cal State East Bay 2 p.m.

Friday April 29 Women’s Water Polo @ Fresno Pacific 11 a.m.

Saturday April 2 Softball @ CSUMB 12 p.m. & 2 p.m.

Women’s softball Women’s golf places 2nd overall wins both games at the Spring Invite against the Coyotes JOEY PIOMBO STAFF WRITER

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he Sonoma State women's golf team placed second at their home tournament on April 8 and 9 at the Santa Rosa Golf Club. After finishing tied for 8th place in Arizona just days before the Spring Invite, the team was hungry to compete at their home tournament.

In Santa Rosa, fifteen teams faced off during the two day event. With a previous tournament just days before, the Seawolves had their hands full with the a grueling and wet course on the first day, but luckily the skies cleared up for day two. Some teams that competed in the invite were Simon Fraser University, Academy of Arts University, Holy Names University, and Biola University The Seawolves were forced to grind through the exhaustion and play to the best of their ability. The home tournament allowed all roster members to compete. The selected five girls worked together as a team, and those who were not selected had the opportunity to compete as individuals.

The two day tournament consisted of eighteen holes a day. With a number of great programs competing for the first place spot, the Seawolves took the competition one hole at a time.

Senior golfer Sabrina Virtusio explained the rules of the tournament when she said, “ A regular season tournament is based on a 36-hole team score, five players are chosen to represent each team and play eighteen holes each day.”

After the competition, each teams lowest four scores are added up and the team with the lowest two day score wins the tournament. This competitive style of tournaments require each golfer to focus every single hole in order to achieve a low score. In terms of individual players, they also strive for the lowest score of the tournament and can win the lowest score of the tournament on an individual level.

Shooting lowest each day helps the individual scores and eventually benefits the team's overall standing at the end of the tournament. All five of the Seawolves that had their scores count place in the top 20 at the tournament.

With this being the Seawolves last competition before playoffs, their national ranking can help shape the team's confidence.

The group ended up placing second overall, which puts them in a good spot for the conference play coming up this week.

Every tournament gives the team an opportunity to grow and learn as a team. When asked about the second place finish, Virtusio explained, “This past weekend showed how much work we have to put do before postseason.”

In just a week, the Seawolves will put their skills to the test in their first postseason event. With their national rankings at stake, it is important to set goals and be hopeful for success. When talking about next week's matchups with Virtusio said, “We are ready to keep pushing forward into the postseason.”

The teams next tournament will take place on April 15-17 as they head to San Marcos for the CCAA Championships. To help support the team or follow their future tournaments visit sonomaseawolves.com.

MARISSA UGARTE STAFF WRITER

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he Sonoma State Seawolves softball team had a successful Friday, winning both their games against Cal State San Bernardino. The games took place on Sonoma State’s campus Friday afternoon to evening. Thanks to the team’s victories, they are now standing at 27-12 overall and 17-9 in the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA).

“I think we’ve been building momentum through the season and we’re in a good spot right now,” says sophomore Julie Davis.

The team came back strong Friday, after the losses of their last three games, previous to that the team was on an incredible 14 game winning streak.

During game one, the Seawolves beat Cal State San Bernardino 5-2. Pitching for the Seawolves was junior Brielle Vidmar with her sixteenth win in one game, and freshman Camille Rodriguez with her sixth. Sonoma State took an early lead over the Coyotes in the first inning scoring a pair of runs. Cameron Kirtlan and Jordyn Martinez went 2-for-4 at the plate with one RBI each. Freshman Courtney Jack hit her second home run of the season and Martinez hit her ninth.

She is now tied with teammate Jordann White for most home runs in the CCAA. Alee Balanon drew a leadoff walk which was followed by Davis with a sacrifice bunt to advance her to second base. The first run of the game from the Seawolves was Kirtlan, who stole her twenty-third base of the season then scored off a hit by White to right field.

“We have really cleaned up our defense since the beginning of the season and our pitching is only getting stronger so those two aspects have attributed greatly,” said Kirtlan. “We’re able to make good contact & have hard hit balls most of our at-bats.”

After a couple hits in the third inning, the Coyotes tied the score. In the bottom of the third, Martinez scored another run giving the Seawolves the lead once again. In the fourth inning the Seawolves took the game by scoring two more runs, one being Jack’s home run. The Seawolves closed the game with a three point lead over the Coyotes.

The Coyotes weren’t able to score the first four innings of game two with Rodriguez pitching. In the second inning, the Seawolves scored four points. Nicole Renner and Jack recorded RBI singles each, and Balanon hit a double which brought Renner and Jack home. Freshman Cassidy Romano started off the fourth inning strong by hitting a single then stealing second, and advancing to third during a wild pitch. Jack hit an RBI sacrifice bunt which brought Romano home.

The Coyotes put two points on the board at the top of the fifth, but the same concluded in Seawolf victory with a final score of 6-2.

“Winning always feels good. It’s the wins we earn as a team that always feel the best though. Everybody doing their parts and playing good softball,” said senior Lindsey Calcany Blair.

You can catch the scores and further information on next their games on sonomaseawolves.com.

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Sports 11

Men’s tennis takes down UC Santa Cruz

JONAH TROSKY STAFF WRITER

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onoma State men’s tennis team and their number one player, Nate Oppenheim, battled to the end to complete the 7-0 victory on Sunday against UC Santa Cruz.

“I tried to play to win, and play aggressive because usually, the aggressive player wins,” Oppenheim said.

He said he had been struggling with the confidence in his forehand and felt it was necessary to go full force with it in order to win against a tough opponent.

The first six matches finished fairly quickly leaving everyone to watch the final few games of Oppenheim's match. It went down to the wire as each competitor had won one set, setting up a first to 10 tiebreaker to determine the outcome.

It was a back and forth affair with Oppenheim finding a way to squeak it out. “I found a way in the big moments to pull it out,” Oppenheim said.

Since this match was on senior day, the players really wanted to find a way to win this match. “I had a lot of energy today, it was senior day, it is always good to get amped up early in the match,” Junior Alec Wong said. Wong cruised to victory in his singles match dropping the first game then winning 12 straight.

“My serve was really good today and my forehand was working pretty well, those helped give me the win today,” senior Igor Pissarenko said. A theme for many of the players was during the decisive moments they stepped up. Some of the scores looked different than the actual result. Each game was close for Pissarenko, but he made big shots in big moments.

Next week, the Seawolves will be playing in Arizona for the Conference Championship. They know the weather is likely to get up to 100 degrees, making habits built during the regular season paramount in crucial moments. The weather effects play by “kinda slowing down the moment,” Pissarenko said. “Maybe just staying a little bit calmer and not being to fast on trying to finish.”

If Sonoma State can win one round in Arizona next week in the Conference Championships they will be guaranteed a spot in the NCAA tournament. Last year they were in a similar situation and many players feel with a little bit better toughness and conditioning they can make big strides this year.

Winning this match handily against UC Santa Cruz, “is a good confidence booster for all of us, not just me.” Wong said. “We are pretty deep so anytime you can get a win and feel confident about it after is probably the best thing we can ask for.”

What gives these players energy is hearing their teammates support along with the fans. There were more fans than normal out there, making the “Noma” cheers very present throughout. With more fan support there becomes a real home-court advantage.

The PacWest Conference championships in Surprise, Arizona starts on Tuesday, not allowing much time for their bodies to recover. Playing this match so close before the conference championships were not bad because “it gives us the confidence going into Arizona knowing we can win.” Oppenheim said.

The conference championships end on Saturday, leaving a lot of tennis to be played, but so far with a 35 national rank, Sonoma State has had a successful season.

STAR // Brandon Sparks Sophmore Harry Cohen returns a serve against UC Santa Cruz

STAR // Brandon Sparks Senior Igor Pissarenko awaits the serve from UC Santa Cruz

Women’s water polo team falls to the Pioneers

CLARK FAHRENTHOLD STAFF WRITER

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his past Saturday, the Sonoma State women's water polo team battled the visiting conference rivals, the Pioneers of Cal State East Bay. Sonoma State looked to bounce back after suffering a blow out loss to UC San Diego just a week

prior.

The game was made even more meaningful as before the game the Seawolves honored their three graduating seniors: Amanda Weddle, Taylor Brooks, and Kelly Failner.

Junior Cassidy Mundt expressed her appreciation for the departing seniors pre-game.

“I’m very sad to see them go, but also extremely excited to see what the future holds for them. They are going to do great things out there and I couldn’t be happier for them,” she said.

The Seawolves would get the scoring started as sophomore Hailey Gilbert would strike from short range, giving the Seawolves an early 1-0 lead with 2:15 left in the opening period.

However, the Pioneers would respond with a goal of their own right before the close of the first period marking the score a 1-1 tie. Out of the break, it seemed that East Bay was capturing momentum as they struck for two quick goals. Making it a 3-1 game with 5:42 left in the second period.

But just when things started to get away from the Seawolves, Senior Jordan Williams lasered a goal home, drawing things closer.

The two teams battled and traded goals with eachother, but with just twenty-two ticks left in the half senior Taylor Brooks would have her spotlight moment as she would pound a goal home with authority and tied the score at 4-4 at the end of the first half.

While no one was going to complain about being tied at the half, the Seawolves seemed to have been hit with a bit of bad luck.

In the first half alone, Sonoma State had four shots clang just of the crossbar, all of which had the potential to go in.

Senior Kelly Failner said, “It’s always frustrating when things aren't going right on offense because we have a lot of potential there. We just happened to have an off day Saturday.”

While both teams had a surplus of solid looks and shots on goal in the first and second period, the same could not be said for the third period. The period was a battle of defenses, as Sonoma State goalie Brook Sullivan had the net on lockdown, collecting five saves in the third period alone.

Still, in spite of Brooks and the rest of the Seawolves defensive efforts, the Pioneers would still be able to find the back of the net with 2:07 left in the quarter, pulling East Bay ahead 5-4 heading into the final period.

Failner talked about East Bay’s defense and said, “at practice we mimicked their defensive set up so we were definitely prepared. We just couldn't execute our shots.”

The offensive would again come back to life in the final period. Both teams traded goals, with East Bay netting themselves a goal with 5:03 left. Shortly after lightning would strike for Sonoma State as Williams would find the back of the net for the second time. This time was from long range, pulling the Seawolves to within one point with 4:38 left in the contest.

Sonoma State would have a couple more open looks, but unfortunately, none would find the back of the net. Cal State East Bay added one more goal with less than 2 minutes, icing the game and giving us the final score of 7-5.

As the final horn sounded the crowd came to their feet and gave one more round of applause for the three departing seniors.

After the game Kelly Failner spoke about her final game at Sonoma State and the time she had spent with her teammates. “What I’ll remember most are the friendships I’ve made. My teammates are really some of the most inspiring and genuine people I have had the pleasure of knowing,” said Failner.

Sonoma State looks to bounce back, as they travel to Fresno Pacific University and battle the Sun Birds Friday, April 19th in what will be the Seawolves final game of the regular season.

COURTESY // sonomaseawolves.com Seniors Amanda Weddle, Taylor Brooks, and Kelly Failner stand with head coach Chelsea Hennan and assistant coach Joey Doyle after their game against Cal State East Bay.

12 Photo

APRIL 16 - APRIL 22, 2019 sonomastatestar.com

Prospective students say ‘yes to SSU’

STAR // Emily Kowalski Alpha Omicron Pi sorority women speak with future students and their parents on the benefit of joining greek life.

STAR // Emily Kowalski A student in the Music club talks to the parents of future students.

STAR // Emily Kowalski Prospective Student, Jenny, happily poses with Lobo at Seawolf Decision Day.

STAR // Brandon Sparks Nate Oppenheim (left) and Max Nudell (right) high-five after scoring a point.

STAR // Brandon Sparks Alec Wong intensley looks at his opponent as he prepares to serve.

STAR // Brandon Sparks Nate Oppenheim leaps to hit a fast, oncoming ball.