Volume 82 // Issue 8

IN THIS ISSUE

Softball victory

Study spots

Concerto competition

Read about the softball team’s recent success, including a tournament win, on PAGE 11.

Find out where the best oncampus places to study are on PAGE 9.

Learn about what exactly a concerto is, and how to see one, on PAGE 6.

SINCE 1979

VOLUME 82 // ISSUE 8 APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

THE UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT RUN NEWSPAPER

@SONOMASTATESTAR

Associated Students elections

Voting for Associated Students President to take place April 8-9 BRADEN CARTWRIGHT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

S

onoma State’s elections for Associated Students (AS) president are next week on Monday, April 8, and Tuesday, April 9. The candidates for president are Leonel Alejandre Navarro and Breana Archie.

Students can vote online from a link that will be emailed to them.

Last year’s elections had the lowest turnout in five years. Less than 12% of students voted in 2018, down from 25% of students voting in 2017.

Manny Ojeda won last year’s election with 679 votes, only for him to be removed, “because he no longer met the requirements for major student government office as outlined by the California State University,” according to Eric Dickson, the executive director for AS. This led to AS vice president Carlee Chatterley taking on the role of president. The position will be filled when she graduates in May. In addition to the race for president, students will elect the Vice President of Finance and Chair of the Senate for student government. These races are

CANDIDATE

MANDELA LINDER

Leonel Alejandre Navarro

S

200 different clubs and I want to sit in on their meetings. I want to bring the title of AS president into meetings and show people that we actually care, to increase student involvement and school spirit.”

“I want to bring the title of AS President into meetings and show people that we actually care, to increase student involvement and school spirit.” objective in running is to help other students get more involved in campus life.

“The reason why I want to become AS President is because I want students to know that they can get involved on campus,” Navarro said.

“I had a friend drop out of school because she didn’t feel like she belonged.”

Navarro’s objectives align with the goals of the organization, as stated on the Sonoma State website.

According to the AS page, Associated Students is a student-run organization that promotes student interests in through advocacy. “The Associated Students, as a corporation owned and governed by students, supports a variety of programs, services and organizations to enhance the student experience at Sonoma State University,” the webpage states.

If elected, Navarro plans to attend club meetings in order to ascertain the needs of the students so he can represent those needs. “If I get elected I will ask students what they want,” he said. “We have over

CANDIDATE ASHLEY GIESEKE

Breana Archie

STAFF WRITER

STAFF WRITER

ophomore Leonel Alejandre Navarro is running for Associated Students president.

Navarro is a business major, originally from Salinas, CA. His main

unopposed, with Arden Childers running for Vice President of Finance and Aracely Duron running for Chair of the Senate.

Other students showed interest in running for president, but didn’t complete the necessary paperwork to qualify.

The rest of the student elections are scheduled for April 24-25, as AS takes time to gather candidates for the senate positions. Students elect one senator for each school, and various special interest senators. Applications to be a senate candidate are available on Orgsync until April 12.

Another of Navarro’s passions is feeding people who are experiencing homelessness. He is actively involved in volunteer work making sandwiches in off-campus kitchens for those in need.

“It feels good to know that you can actually help people,” he said. “If I was experiencing homelessness I would want people to help me.”

Navarro would bring his desire to feed people to Lobos Pantry, an on-campus space for students who don’t have reliable access to affordable food. He said that he has been to Lobos Pantry, and while he feels that it’s a great resource for students, he said it could be improved with the addition of fresh food. As of now, it provides only non-perishable items to students. “My priority in working with Lobos pantry is to get more perishable items to our students,” he said.

Navarro said that students can expect him to be open-minded as AS president.

“Most people are democrats,” he said.

“But one of my friends is a republican.

I’m just really opened minded to everything. If you vote for me I’m someone who is open to everyone. I accept everybody. I just want to get all the perspectives.”

C

urrent third year Sociology major Breana Archie is one of the students who has taken the plunge in order to get her voice heard. She is running for Associated Students president and is hoping to create a large difference in the community.

Archie became a peer mentor shortly after her first year on campus, where she learned about lobby core and this is what sparked her interest in student government. “This was the light bulb in my head that made me realize student government is home for me.”

She was also involved in the REACH program prior to her decision to run for president.

thinks the conversation should be started about diversity issues.

“The problem isn’t going to change if someone doesn’t take a risk. I want to break down barriers of hate and barriers of inequalities in order to serve students,” Archie said.

Another main issue Archie hopes to focus on if she were to take the presidency is mental health concerns. She wants the campus to focus more on how students are actually doing. One idea she had on how to do this was to add the suicide hotlines phone number to the back of student ID cards so they always feel like they have someone to talk to.

As a survivor of suicide herself, she believes it is a crucial topic and something that needs to have more aware-

“The problem isn’t going to change if someone doesn’t take a risk. I want to break down barriers of hate and barriers of inequalities in order to serve students.”

Archie’s passion for government has stemmed from many different issues on campus. She wants to work a lot with diversity, which has been known to be something the school lacks. The lack of women having higher roles is also something that she has wanted to change, especially those of color.

“Being African American here in Sonoma, I don’t see a lot of me.

This is what really pushed me to get more involved,” she said. “Why not take the risk and be the example so that way when other African American student come here, they don’t have to feel like they don’t belong.”

Archie wants her campaign to focus on topics like these and she

ness. “I totally understand what it is like to put on a mask and pretend it is okay,” she said.

“If the students don’t have a solid mental health, it doesn’t matter how smart they are, they aren’t going to succeed,” continued Archie. “The mind is the foundation of everything and should be spoken about. I want to personally have conversations with students and actually ask if they are okay.”

Archie believes that she will be a great candidate for the students and someone who can truly advocate for them. “My experience speaks for itself and at the end of the day, I’m rooting for the students and their success in the future. I’m here to find the middle ground,” she said.

2 Editorial

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

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

Christine Von Raesfeld, Jessica Rivera, Kaitlyn Bradley, Jacob Loher, Ethan Prins

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:

“Sonoma State Softball wins the Tournament of Champions”

By Holly Chandler

Read about the softball team’s recent success on Page 11.

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

STAR // Kevin Flores

Students share their needs

B

eing in college is a unique situation because you’re surrounded by people who are in a similar stage of life as you. You share common needs, goals and interests as your peers.

Sonoma State has created some programs and resources to capitalize on our shared situation.

The career closet, offered by the career center, is where a student may go before a big interview or any special occasion, to rent out professional business attire. Instead of spending extra money on nice clothes that you’ll only wear a few times, you can borrow them from the school.

First impressions and one’s professional appearance can be that defining factor whether your employer will hire you, but when you can use a resource like the career closet, those things aren’t made to be a barrier.

Showing up to a job in professional attire sets you apart from those who present themselves like they didn’t put as much thought or effort into their attire.

The career closet isn’t the only program the university has created that lets students share things instead of buying them.

For those who don’t have a bicycle or can’t afford to buy a new one, a lesser known service Campus Recreation offers is bike rental. Students are able to rent their very own bicycle for the semester for a low fee.

The service has a $35 fee simply because the bicycles accumulate wear and tear.

Renting a bike is a perfect opportunity for students who don’t have a car to have a way around. These rental programs especially benefit low-income students. A good bike costs hundreds of dollars, plus you have to maintain it, so renting is a much cheaper alternative.

Campus Recreation also rents camping gear to students, providing a weekend escape from the stresses of college without having to splurge on a tent, sleeping bags and other supplies.

Not having that bike or professional outfit can be leaving students at a disadvantage when it comes to being successful in the classroom or one’s personal life. It’s important student know these opportunities to save money exist.

Sonoma State should be increasing their advertising efforts to showcase the positive tools that the university offers to students.

These programs also need to be expanded. For the career closet, there should be more of a push to collect a larger array of clothing. When more styles and sizes can be added to their collection, students will be able to confidently approach the Career Center.

Other similar programs, like the library’s laptop rental, are ripe for expansion. The library offers laptops to rent for one week and for four hours, but the one week rentals are often all being used. They only have 20 laptops available, and if they were to buy more then surely more students would benefit by being able to rent one out.

When these rental opportunities are expanded, students can stop emptying their pockets for resources that are already paid for. A good amount of students work and save their hard earned money to be able to afford a new bike or a new suit. Dumping one’s money on outside programs and tools that are already supplied by the university is frivolous.

If and when more of a marketing effort is made, students will stop unkowingly passing up these opportunities, bringing more connectivity to Sonoma State.

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.

Interested in being an editor for the Star?

Email star@sonoma.edu

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The STAR is published every Tuesday during the fall and spring semesters. Printing is done by Sonoma Media Group. The weekly publication of the STAR is made possible by Instructionally Related Activities Funding.

SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY-STUDENT CENTER FRIDAY APRIL 5 8:30 am-5 pm

Opinions

REGIONAL RESILIENCE: THRIVING IN A CHANGING WORLD FREE PRE-CONFERENCE SPECIAL EVENT Celebrate the signing of the President’s Climate Leadership Commitment by SSU President Judy K. Sakaki 8:30 – 9 a.m. Seawolf Plaza Coffee and treats

Opinions expressed in the STAR are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the STAR or SSU. The editorial reflects the views of the STAR Editorial Board on issues it considers to be of particular relevance to the campus community.

Letters to the Editor Letter writers may expect prompt publication in the newspaper’s op-ed section, as space is available. Letters of up to 400 words will be allowed and must be submitted no later than the Friday before the publication date. Published letters must be free of libel, since the publication is held legally accountable for all content. Although personal controversy will be tolerated, it is the responsibility of the editor to check statements purporting the facts. The STAR reserves the right to refuse publication to any letter and to edit for length. Letters must sign all contributions and the editor must verify the signer and the writer are one in the same through personal conference. To send a letter to the editor, email star@sonoma.edu.

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Opinion 3

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

Frequent marijuana use linked to psychotic disorders, new study finds

ETHAN PRINS

STAFF WRITER

M

arijuana, a perceptual phenomenon across the globe, has spread wildly amidst this generation irrespective of health risks still in exploration.

The aura has appeared to lean in favor of legalization considering medical cannabis is authorized in 34 U.S states, and recreational sales are permitted in 10 of them.

Undoubtedly, weed is taking off and stirring up a myriad of various conversations—good and bad.

However, in accordance to new research from the journal of Lancet Psychiatry, “The more cannabis you consume the more likely you are to develop a psychotic disorder.” The new evidence is consis-

tent with prior trials that suggest onerous use and high THC concentration cannabis —a 10% decoction of THC or higher —can be damaging to aspects of mental health. In order to further understand this theory it is essential to establish what exactly psychosis is.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, “during a period of psychosis, a person’s thoughts and perceptions are disturbed, and cognition and emotions are ultimately so impaired that contact is lost with external reality.”

In a nutshell, a person experiencing a psychotic episode may undergo some forms of hallucinations, false beliefs, depression, anxiety, sleep problems, social withdrawal, lack of motivation, and difficulty functioning overall.

Cannabis sure packs a punch— one full of new knowledge and striking effects. How peculiar that it has the potential to deal such elevated risk considering it is prescribed to most in order to resolve such risks.

Nevertheless, the study found that those who used pot daily were three times more likely to have a psychotic episode. Those who started using cannabis at the age of 15 or prior to had a slightly more

elevated risk than those who started using in later years. The possibility of psychosis is only relevant for those who smoke high THC infused-marijuana.

The researchers identified 901 people aged 18 to 64 who were diagnosed with their first psychiatric incident between May 2010 and April 2015—not exceptionally recent in proximity to this current year. However, the average potency of weed of U.S. in 2017 was 17.1 percent, up from 8.9 percent in 2008. For those who used high-potency pot on a daily basis, the risk of psychosis was even greater — four times more than an unexposed individual.

People make their own choices and use marijuana for a myriad of reasons. Whether if it is utilized at a high rate with a high potency or at a low rate with a low potency it is pivotal to acknowledge the health facts it holds.

It seems as though this research is selective—it ignores the reality of crucial worldly aspects.

It is presenting it as if psychosis is normalized, when psychosis is exceptionally selective. This only applies to weed with high THC levels though--what is said can easily be sensationalized.

Fitness influencer fraudulence: lies and deception

KAYLIE BOETTNER STAFF WRITER

T

he problem with social media nowadays is anyone can claim to be an expert on anything, even if it is just a hobby or passion. For example, most popular fitness accounts have no training or certificates that give them the knowledge or power to be recommending their followers exercise routines or nutritional plans.

There is no way to regulate these people and in fact most of the time they are praised for whatever it is they are trying to promote. Followers are so overcome by the transformation that the influencer has made that they want anything that will transform them in the same way, disregarding their credentials.

This is a great business for fitness social media influencers because they do not have to go through all of the steps of getting certified which are costly and can take several months or longer to finish. Instead, they get to reap the benefits without going through the proper steps.

Many credible and educated fit-

ness professionals are overlooked because their accounts are not as aesthetically pleasing and they give knowledgeable answers that are not always easy to understand. Also, most of the time people do not want intelligent answers because they want what is fastest and easiest to understand. The less effort the better which is ironic considering they are looking to start a fitness routine which takes a lot of effort.

Most recently a fitness influencer named Brittany Dawn has been under fire for scamming her followers and so called clients. She has been operating online since 2013 and has a very large following on Youtube and Instagram. Years ago she claimed that she was NASM (National Association of Sports and Medicine) certified but now according to dailymail.com “she received a National Association of Sports and Medicine certification as a ‘fitness and nutrition specialist’ four years ago.”These are two very different certifications. The fitness and nutrition specialist certification is meant as an add on to a personal training certificate, not in place of it.

Not only does she not have the credentials to be making personal workout routines, but she barely has the knowledge or power to give nutritional advice. Brittany Dawn (real name Brittany Davis) has been slammed by followers who bought her supposedly custom made training plans. Customers have been complaining for the last five years but their complaints were not seen because Dawn would delete rude comments and then block them.

Many followers turned custom-

ers were promised personalized training and nutrition plans as well as access to Dawn through phone or email but were ultimately met with disappointment. Customers claimed her workouts were generic and not tailored like promised. Some customers never even received their individualized plans. Customers also complained about her not answering phone calls or emails. One woman “would receive emails telling her ‘girl, you’re doing great!’ despite the fact that she had not lost any weight or inches since she started the exercises or diets,” according to dailymail.com.

Customers want justice for Dawn’s wrong doings.

Feb 6 she posted an apology video titled “My Public Statement About The Past 24 Hours” to her Youtube account. Saying “at times, it was overwhelming and I took on more than I should have. And for that, I take full responsibility and I am sorry.” However people were not accepting of her apology in the comments section.

One person saying, “what workout do you use for those crocodile tears?”

Thousands of clients have felt betrayed by Dawn and continue to fight for getting their money back. Influencers build a following off of those wanting to lose weight and reach their goals. However, this is not the first time that a social media influencer has let down their followers.

In a world run by social networking and the desire to look and feel our best, people can be strung along by the promise of a healthier life. Being aware of influencer’s backgrounds can save someone time, and also their hard earned money.

TikTok’s algorithm can be addicting and limiting

TERESA GULLI STAFF WRITER

I

n a world of short attention spans, the latest viral social media app, TikTok, is taking the internet by storm with the quick 15 second video clips that are applicable to any user. These video clips have the reputation of fun, entertaining, cringe-worthy or radical content which includes but isn’t limited to lip syncing songs or viral memes, challenges and comedy sketch content. This platform is widely used by Generation Z but is still acknowledged by millennials. The appeal to this platform is free, and short form videos that captivate your attention.

TikTok, unlike other social media platforms, has a “For You” page rather than a timeline of content from the celebrities, influencers, and friends that you follow.

There is a heavy focus on the algorithm that directs you to the content based on what users click, follow and share.

According to Digital Innovation and Transformation, “Its special algorithm to determine the exposure of videos grants every user’s video chances to go viral, regardless of how many followers a user has. Moreover, having teenagers as the main users augments the advantage since many teenagers have dreams of becoming famous and that TikTok is the platform that may make their dreams come true.”

While TikTok is increasing their audience due to this algorithm and its uniqueness, users are receiving a wider range of content that they would not normally lean towards but have the potential to enjoy watching.

There are flaws in this algorithm because one’s feed is created if the app continues to give a viewer videos that they enjoy rather than bring new content. If viewers are constantly consuming content that is geared towards them, it leaves watchers isolated to the same opinions and thoughts of topics, including politics.

According to Intelligencer, “just as adults face the terrible habit of getting all of their information from the Facebook News Feed or their Twitter timeline, younger users face the stultifying allure of social-media accounts that do their browsing for them — and just like algorithmic feeds, those accounts surface the content most likely to get a substantial emotional reaction.”

Providing users with the likelihood to go viral or become famous is why many younger kids gravitate towards this app. This is a way that can make anyone go viral, famous and make their content more accessible to a larger audience. Contributing in the hashtags and challenges has everyone in the loop of the respectable copycat style and bringing in more involvement and appeal to the app.

The New York Times reflects on the popularity of the app, stating, “So maybe you’ll sit TikTok out. But these things have a way of sneaking up behind you.

Maybe you never joined Snapchat — but its rise worried Facebook so much that its prettier product, Instagram, was remade in its image, and copied concepts from Snapchat reached you there.”

Additionally, TikTok uses these algorithms to keep the users addicted, providing the users with consistent content of their liking that will having them scrolling all day long.

To avoid constant use of the app, it is important to be cautious of what is being put onto the “for you” feed.

Using the “not interested” tab can be helpful for users to limit their recommendations. Be mindful of the addictive factors that not only TikTok but other social media platforms such as Facebook and Youtube have; these specific algorithms are formulated to keep users coming back and using the app, after all.

YouTube tattoo artist caught sexting underage girls

JACK MESSIER STAFF WRITER

“W

ere you or were you not sexting with 14 and 15-year-old girls?”

This, among plentiful, straightforward questions plunged on famed YouTube tattoo artist Romeo Lacoste, engaged nothing but a laughable onslaught of question-dodging and excuse-making amid new underage sexting allegations last week. According to Forbes, Lacoste is one of the biggest tattooers on social media, and is “the go to tattoo artist for inf luencers.”

In a nearly 40-minute interview

with DramaAlert, a YouTube show hosted by Daniel M. Keem, better known as Keemstar, Lacoste’s responses to the fiery situation burn brightly with obvious guilt, irony, energetic yet choppy excuses and, sadly, more lies.

Above all else, Lacoste is adamant in his assertion that everybody involved, directly or indirectly, “doesn’t have all the facts.”

Lacoste, 30, prefers not to hear about his recent past riddled with dumb mistakes, but pedophilia, too.

Lacoste initiates the interview with Keemstar by focusing on one 2016 instance with a girl he alleges was “merely” borderline underage. The girl was behind one of several Romeo Lacoste fan accounts at the time of his increasing fame. However, as he claims in the aforementioned March 17, 2019 interview that “they were fake accounts and lied about their age,” he wrongfully adds, “so you know I’m just over here minding my own business and these girls are throwing themselves at me.”

Keemstar uncovers that Lacoste was the one lying about the age of these

girls, even at the start of the interview.

Keemstar later brings up a screenshot of one text conversation between Lacoste and an underage girl.

The texts clearly display Lacoste himself reaching out to the minor, asking her, “you’re not down to do it sooner? Or you wanna wait till you’re 18?”

As the lies continue, Keemstar brings up two other girls, one interviewed on the same show, who said they were 14 and 15 when they engaged with or dated Lacoste. Unlike what was previously proclaimed by Lacoste, with the girls involved allegedly being “borderline 18,” Keemstar manages to clearly stagnate his responses. It becomes clear that the age of some of the girls involved really is as drastic as it was first reported.

Lacoste paves more excuses for his actions by def lecting the wrong on the underage girls, saying, ”she told me she had done many sexual things with older people… older than me.”

One 15-year-old informed Keemstar that Lacoste even peed on her, saying it deeply traumatized her. Lacoste’s re-

sponse was even more concerning than you’d expect, asserting that he doesn’t remember that ever happening, yet curiously follows the assertion with “I am a human being…I’m not ashamed for some of the sexual things I’m into.”

As more irony and hypocrisy pervade Lacoste’s response to the allegations, he even claims to be completely against pedophiles. Those people must be totally different than Lacoste who exhibits the same actions because of “being new to the social media, fame and attention,” right? Wrong, entirely and inexcusably.

Lacoste says that he deleted his Twitter account due to hate. Upon being asked by Keemstar as to why he didn’t provide a statement, Lacoste professes that he couldn’t “even get a breath out on twitter.” Any celebrity’s feed, no matter how “blown up” with hate, does not affect their ability to tweet—take President Trump for example.

After all, the interview sadly doesn’t leave one really surprised the underage sexting claims are true, let alone convinced otherwise.

4 News

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

President to sign Climate Leadership Commitment JONAH TROSKY STAFF WRITER

S

onoma State University will commit itself to a higher standard when President Judy Sakaki signs the “President’s Climate and Leadership Commitment” on Friday, April 5, at 8:30 a.m.

Signing this commitment demonstrates Sonoma State’s adherence towards building a sustainable and resilient campus. The sustainability commitment began in 2006 via Second Nature and has taken off ever since with many universities signing the commitment since.

“The success and the support [the commitment] has been getting has caused more universities to see this as a good blueprint for many of the sustainability initiatives they are already getting,” said Paul Gullixson, Sonoma State’s spokesperson.

Signing this commitment is not Sonoma State’s first step towards better sustainability. Almost 80 classes offered at Sonoma State practice sustainability within their course work.

Sonoma State has been considering signing this commitment for a few years, but with Judy Sakaki taking the President’s office in 2016, it began coming into fruition.

“That is not to say that we haven’t been doing stuff. This is sort of a natural progression as many of the things in the commitment we have already been working on and doing in terms of sustainability and resiliency,” Gullixson said.

President Sakaki and her new cabinet have been consciously aware of making Sonoma State known as a campus that recognizes the changing dynamics of our current climate. “We want to be more a part of the solution than the problem,” Gullixson said.

Everybody talks about being greener, but singing this commitment verifies it and makes it aware to the campus community that Sonoma State cares.

“We are on our way to becoming a national model for sustainable practices, and we are doing it together,” President Sakaki said.

Renovations of Darwin and Salazar Hall, as well as the Recreation Center, exceeded Title 24 energy efficiency requirements by 40 percent, 40 percent, and 54 percent respectively. Those renovations happened years ago, starting Sonoma State’s trend of sustainability.

“I am excited and proud that we are making a campus-wide commitment to become an even ‘greener’ campus,” said Sakaki.

The President was the driving force in signing the commitment, but others were involved throughout the process. “It is important to note even though it is the President’s commitment, this is something that has been endorsed by the Academic Senate and the Associated Students,” Gullixson said.

The university will be integrating even more sustainability towards research and courses. They will be committing themselves by writing a Climate Action Plan by year three that will include deciding on a date to attain complete carbon neutrality. They will also start a baseline inventory of the carbon footprint on campus after year one.

“They are committed to moving our sustainability values forward,” said Joyce Lopez, Chief Financial Officer at Sonoma State, “I look forward to working with these terrific leaders towards fulfilling this commitment.”

Sonoma State Universities student body President Carley Chatterley emphasized that students have long engaged in making the campus more sustainable. “We are proud that our own university is stepping up its leadership in this critical area with the signing of the President’s Climate Leadership Commitment,” she said.w The singing ceremony begins at 8:30 a.m. in the Seawolf Plaza on Friday, April 5. There will be coffee and refreshments with the conference beginning immediately after.

CAMPUS CRIME

CAMPUS CRIME

Date

Crime

Location

Status

March 10

Assault on Person

Cabernet V.

Referred

March 12

Grand Theft

Sauvignon V.

Under Invest.

March 14

Hit and Run

Parking Lot R10

Closed

March 21

Possession of Nunchaku

SSU Facilities Services

Open

March 26

Petty Theft

Recreation Center

Closed by Arrest

NEWS IN BRIEF Rohnert Park

A 44-year-old woman was struck and killed near Curtis Drive on Petaluma Hill Road late last week, just blocks away from Sonoma State University. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Damien Mons, a Napa resident, was driving his 2004 Dodge Durango southbound on Petaluma Hill Road when the woman, later identified as Ishi Ayita Barron Smith, abruptly crossed the street into traffic. Drivers had previously reported her erratically walking through oncoming traffic just minutes before she was struck, according to CHP Officer David deRutte. There were no concerns about reckless driving.

Los Angeles

Ermias Asghedom, known by his rap name Nipsey Hussle, was fatally shot Sunday outside of the clothing store he founded in South Los Angeles in hopes to rebuild his troublesome neighborhood. Officials said that Hussle was one of three men shot in the incident, although the other two are reported to be in stable condition. Hussle had two children with actress Lauren London, with whom he was engaged, and had recently been nominated for a Grammy for his debut album. He was 33.

San Francisco

A jury has awarded the families of two brothers a combined $21.4 million after they claimed that Chevron Corp. exposed the men to toxic chemicals that caused fatal cancers while working at a company plant.

Chevron denies that benzene, a known carcinogen, was the cause of their cancers. Gary and Randy Eaves worked for a Chevron-owned tire manufacturer in Arkansas. Gary died of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2015 and Randy died of leukemia in 2018. Both were 61 at the time of their deaths. Chevron is mulling their next step in the appeals process.

Washington D.C.

While much has been discussed in recent months over whether or not former Vice President Joe Biden will run for president, it seems his bid may be derailed before it ever leaves the station. Biden recently found himself under public scrutiny after a former assemblywoman, Lucy Flores, accused him of unwanted touching and kissing. She claims that the former VP approached her from behind, put his hands on her shoulders, and gave the back of her head a “big slow kiss.” On Sunday, Biden responded -- in a second statement -- that he has offered “countless handshakes, hugs, expressions of affection, support and comfort,” although he denies that he acted inappropriately.

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

News 5

Barlow repairs underway, nearly complete

KASEY WILLIAMS NEWS EDITOR

L

ate last month, The Barlow, a high-end boutique business district in Downtown Sebastopol, experienced extensive flooding following several days of incessant rainfall. One month later, remediation and repairs are well underway, although it is uncertain whether or not some businesses will attempt – or even be able – to reopen.

After the tenants received notice via email from the management on Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 26, that the floodgates may be implemented if the rains persisted, they received no further notifications until the following morning, when The Barlow was several meters underwater.

Following the chaotic event, building officials will be conducting a comprehensive review of everything that unfolded.

While acknowledging that both the tenant and the management had certain responsibilities in the event that the flood plan would be implemented, Sebastopol City Manager Larry McLaughlin said that little went according to procedure.

“Tenants needed to evacuate early or the floodgate process [could not] even start,” he said. “Many tenants did not evacuate when they were supposed to.”

Dozens of locals flooded into the district in STAR // Kasey Williams the days following the floods, kayaking in between The Barlow has had several businesses remain open during the repairs, including Taylor Lane Coffee buildings and down streets, feeling firsthand the and Woodfour Brewing Company. gravity of just how bad the circumstances were. In couldn’t happen and I am now saddened.”

The Barlow expressed optimism that damaged busisome locations, waters were as deep as five to six The tides began to shift soon after the waters reced- nesses would start to reopen within the month. “Cleanup feet.

In an interview with The Press Democrat, McLaugh- ed, as Sebastopol does not consider itself to be a commu- continues at The Barlow and we have several businesses reopening in the next few weeks,” they said. lin voiced his disappointment with how things unfolded nity that dwells on negativity.

The Barlow management team hired Belfor Property Guayakí Yerba Mate, which has its headquarters in during the harsh flooding.

“The management side at The Barlow assured Restoration, a large international corporation specialized The Barlow, made available some extra storage within us they were ready to go and ready to institute a flood in disaster relief, to handle the cleanup and repairs site- their warehouse so that neighboring tenants could move in their undamaged items and other goods to help expeplan, and so we had no reason to doubt them otherwise,” wide.

In a statement released by their website last week, dite the cleanup and repair work.

McLaughlin said. “All the work we did to ensure that While the devastation and heartbreak has been palpable, many businesses within the upscale business district hope to reopen in the coming months.

Zazu Kitchen + Farm, Community Market, and Two Dog Night Creamery are just a few of the many.

Village Bakery, which initially stressed the difficulty ahead and considered closing its doors for good, plans to reopen within the next few months, according to Lisa Schroeder, the company’s manager.

Ownership at Crooked Goat began selling tshirts in March in an effort to raise funds for the ongoing repairs, as well as started a GoFundMe, like many other businesses did within the district. They may open by the end of April, if all goes to plan.

McLaughlin emphasized the community effort involved in returning The Barlow to its oncepristine condition. The City of Sebastopol even expedited permits for the repair work, moving all of them “to the top of the pile,” McLaughlin said.

Although tenants and management experienced problems with the floodgates, there are currently no plans to revamp the system.

In the meantime, carpenters, electricians, painters, and tradesmen of all kinds are working long hours to ensure that these businesses open as soon as possible, with some even aiming for this week, according to McLaughlin.

As recently as a few weeks ago, the question STAR // Kasey Williams was whether or not some of these businesses would A carpenter applies new siding to the exterior of the bar in Zazu Kitchen + Farm on Monday, April 1. ever open again. Now, the question is whether or Zazu expects to open by the beginning of May. not some of these businesses will open this week.

Apartment open houses this month MADDIE LAM STAFF WRITER

L

ast year in November, Sonoma State University announced the approval from the California State University Board of Trustees to purchase an apartment complex in Petaluma. The apartment complex is expected to house Sonoma State faculty and staff at special-priced rent rates.

opportunities, especially since there is a lack of housing in Sonoma County post-wildfires. Many of the faculty and staff appreciate the university’s quick response to the housing need.

“People are pretty positive about it and they’re appreciative that the university is responding to the need,” Gullixson said. “It would be cheaper in the long run to buy the complex and start having people move in immediately, rather than spending three years building the complex from scratch. They’re doing their best to try to keep the rent as low as possible and the market right now is tough, but most understand it’s more cost effective to do it this way.”

On March 29, an email was sent out to Sonoma State faculty and staff about details of the complex. The modern-living space offers studios all the way up to three-bedroom apartments, with below-market monthly rent rates, affordable security deposits, and low move-in costs. The special rent pricing for employees includes: studios at $1,774/ month; 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom at $2,300/month; 1 bedroom, den and 1 bath at $2,500/ month; 2 bedroom, 2 bath at $2,600/month; and a 3 bedroom, 2 bath at $3,300/month.

According to the email, the community amenities include a fitness room, clubhouse, bike and kayak storage, parcel lockers, covered parking, electric car-charging stations, an outdoor lounge area with a fire pit, barbecue grills and a bocce ball court.

The apartments are pet-friendly with amenities for your cat and dog including a nearby pet park.

Paul Gullixson, Sonoma State’s spokesperson, said that there is currently no occupation in the new apartment complex. Sonoma State just closed in on the building in mid-March, so there was a few final touches to the building that had to be made before open houses can begin.

On April 5 and 19, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., there will be open houses for faculty and staff to see what the space has to offer, walk around the property, and see what the apartment layouts look like.

“The next step is to start signing people up for units and getting them committed,” said Gullixson. “We’re hoping to get people moving in as soon as April, we have people on a waiting list and we’re sending them [information] but this is their first chance to see it.”

Although there currently are not plans to create more faculty and staff housing, Sonoma State can expect to see more student housing plans.

“Study shows there was a big demand for workforce housing on or near campus,” said Gullixson. “This will meet a lot of people’s needs. It’s a big project, 90 units, so let’s see how this one goes first -- but our next big project is focusing on building more student housing on campus. Right now we have enough housing to meet the needs to STAR // Jacob Loher house 30 percent of our students, and we want to bring that up to 50 percent.”

In 2017, many of Sonoma State’s faculty, including President Judy Sakaki, lost The housing complex is going through the finishing touches before offering their homes to the Sonoma County wildfires. Creating more housing gives staff more open houses to faculty on April 5 and 19, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

6 Arts

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

STAR // Brandon Sparks

Schroeder Hall will be hosting the Concerto competition on April 7.

Concerto competition comes back

WILL HAHN

STAFF WRITER

W

e all know what a concert is, but what about a concerto? Of course, adding the ‘o’ right at the end of the word gives it a completely different

context.

Rather than gathering around to watch an artist perform a single or a band play a set list, the audience watches in awe as a soloist or duet performs a piece written for a solo instrument or a vocalist with an orchestra right behind them. How can someone discern what a concerto sounds like?

Well, luckily, students at Sonoma State University and the surrounding community can gather in the Green Music Center, where it will be hosting its fourth annual concerto competition on Sunday, April 7, at 7:30 p.m. The competition is free to anyone who would like to come and watch Sonoma State Music students perform during the evening inside the beautiful Schroeder Hall.

The instrumental and vocal competition will include about 10 to 15 contestants, who will have the choice to play their own instruments or sing to the crowd, guided by a pianist who plays a reduced symphonic version of the orchestra for their piece. Instruments range from the woodwind and brass family to the string family and piano, with vocalists as well.

The Sonoma State Orchestra Director, Alexander Kahn, has been the man behind the stage directing and showcasing the competition for the past three years. In fact, he was the one that kickstarted the competition ever since he arrived at Sonoma State back in 2015.

“You know, when I started it, I wasn’t actually sure if people would actually sign up or whether it would work out. But, it was pretty easy from the beginning,” Kahn said. “Even the first year we did it, we had a good response.”

He was right, and the numbers have continued to grow. However, Kahn believes in quality over quantity.

Not a lot of students sign up for the competition, but that’s okay.

“It’s already kind of a small number of people who are going to be in that position. And keeping it small makes it a fun evening,” Kahn said. “I’ve been other places where the concerto competition can be lots and lots of people, but the actual competition itself tends to be like a flop.”

Sitting through 20 to 30 entries can be tiring, said Kahn, and being able to sit through a competition that is more tight-knit with less entries is more enjoyable. The audience’s attention is focused more within the span of an hour as opposed to three hours, and therefore the experience is more satisfying overall.

Preparing for the competition is no walk in the park and former concerto winner and trombone player JJ Mayer can attest to this. He and his performing partner, Spencer Causey, practiced a piece made for two french horns but was doable on trombone and they both practiced the piece from start to finish three hours a day for two weeks. Then, it was only a matter of time before they had walk out onto the brightly-lit stage.

Although Causey was confident, Mayer said he was a nervous wreck. Even though he had a big band rehearsal on the same day of the competition and cracked on the first note during the competition, he and Causey flourished.

“This competition had a really big impact on my musicianship,” Mayer said. “I was more of someone who liked to sit in the jazz band and play my part. I didn’t really like to get up and solo.”

Needless to say, stage fright is part of the process and it only makes the students better musicians.

“I think it’s a great experience for students who have that experience of playing a concerto from start to finish to see if they can learn an entire concerto and play it in front of an audience in a high-stress situation,” Kahn said.

Even if Schroeder Hall’s audience only fills up a third of the room, the pressure for the performer is still existent. Friends, family, community members of Rohnert Park and music students gather to watch these brave musicians as they show of their vocal and instrumental talent.

Kahn, Santa Rosa Junior College Orchestra Director Jerome Fleg and Credo High School Orchestra Director Richard Loheyde are the three judges for the competition. The judging criteria is actually quite simple.

Kahn said that it is really about being able to create a mood and being able to shine in front of the orchestra, rather than being judged based on hitting all of the right notes. The performers need to be able to put themselves out there in front of a large ensemble. So, the judges think of themselves as audience members, trying to put themselves in the shoes of a standard observer.

There can be multiple winners and those who win have the opportunity to play with the actual Sonoma State Symphonic Orchestra the following semester with the concerto piece they played beforehand. A monetary incentive has been considered for winners in the future, but Kahn believes that being able to play with the orchestra is a more valuable experience.

Nevertheless, all the contestants are winners in their own right since each musician who signed up in the past were so dedicated and talented with their craft. Kahn hopes that more people can witness the talent of these individuals and the experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

“There’s nobody who I didn’t enjoy listening to. Not a single performance where I thought ‘ugh,’ you know?

Like this person maybe shouldn’t have signed up or shouldn’t have tried to play.”

He said that everybody who plays, plays at a high enough level to be in the event anyways. Given enough wonderful talent and a variety of instruments, this is a concert, or rather a concerto, that cannot be missed.

New burger joint Stranger than opens in Cotati fiction: ‘The Act’ Review

Review

MARISSA UGARTE

JESSICA RIVERA STAFF WRITER

N

othing screams burger joint like a classic American-style restaurant, which is exactly what Acme Burger is giving its new customers.

Acme Burger is a new locally owned burger joint that has recently hit the streets of Cotati and is giving residents in the area a taste of what they believe is the best. Owner of Acme Burger Todd Kneiss set their goal to serve “quality at an affordable price.”

Kneiss also hopes to create an environment that brings in not only families and seniors but students as well.

Each burger starts with a freshly baked Franco American Bakery toasted sesame seed bun. Their beef patties are supplied through Sonoma Mountain Beef Company and it is top quality beef that is locally raised, hormone and antibiotic free, grass fed and grain finished.

Each burger is garnished with your choice of cheese, lettuce and tomato, paired with a freshly baked bun. The bun is very crisp and f luffy and ultimately gives the burger what it has to offer. The burger comes stacked high and ready for condiments which are conveniently located inside for everyone to help themselves.

Burgers range from $5.95 for their single Acme Burger up to $11.75 for two of their double burgers.

“My meal spoke for itself,” said Paige Elizabeth Ford I, a Petaluma native. “Not to mention, their milkshakes are like no other here; A melt-in-yourmouth type of shake, vanilla preferred.”

The options do not end at just burgers. They also offer different types of chicken sandwiches, seafood, salads, soups and a large selection of sides.

They offer a wide variety of soft drinks, brewed iced tea, shakes, wine and craft beer. It is likely anyone can find themselves something they will like here.

“I have never been a fan of sweet potato fries before and then I tried them here and they’re the best I have ever had,” said Alexis Medina, a Rohnert Park resident.

Greeting every guest that comes through the front door is a patriotic picture. It is Uncle Sam with the words bolded at the bottom “I want you for the U.S. Army.” The outside of the building continues the restaurant’s theme with pastel blue pain and red detailing.

The inside seating area is a combination of seats, high chairs, and benchstyled communal tables. The back wall is decorated with an approximately 10foot tall chalkboard with two buckets of chalk below it for younger kids to play with while parent sit closely tucked under the gazebo. The patio area is hidden on the side of Oliver’s Market so perfectly you could barely tell it’s there when walking by.

Acme Burger offers local food, but is also located in a small convenient shopping center that is by other healthy and organic options. You can also consider stopping in a few doors down at The Jaded Toad for a beer after having a hearty meal.

On Thursdays they offer 10% off your meal with your Student ID. Their hours are Sunday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

If you visit Acme Burgery and want more before you leave, they also sell t-shirts and hats in the front of the ordering area for their loyal customers to take home.

STAFF WRITER

H

ulu’s latest release “The Act” is a true crime limited series that captures the lives of Dee Dee and Gypsy Blanchard, a motherdaughter duo with a story stranger than fiction.

Over the eight episode series the story bounces around a seven year timeline, starting with Dee Dee and Gypsy moving into a house in rural Missouri and ending with Dee Dee’s corpse discovered in the bedroom of that same house and Gypsy going missing.

How the series got from point A to point B is what the “The Act” is all about. The progression and dedication of the characters throughout the series brings this true story to life again.

Everything is not what it seems when it becomes clear to the viewers that Dee Dee is suffering from Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy, which is a psychological disorder marked by attention-seeking behavior often by seeking medical help for exaggerated or made up symptoms.

As the story progresses, Dee Dee continues to manipulate, and Gypsy starts to catch on to her mother’s lies.

The portrayal of the characters has been the best part of capturing this true crime story. Patricia Arquette plays Dee Dee, Arquette is known for her roles as dark characters which is why she portrays Dee Dee so perfectly.

She transformed into Dee Dee by gaining lots of weight for the role. Dee Dee is the villain of the story and her true colors are increasingly exposed as the story progresses.

“The more Dee Dee becomes a wicked witch, ‘The Act’ progresses into something resembling horror,”

stated Critic at Large for Vox Todd VanDerWerff. “The realest parts of the story are actually among the most terrifying and there are many scenes that will cause intended discomfort for those with medical insecurities, whether it’s the graphic depictions of feeding tube procedure or the highly amplified sound effect from a dentist’s drill.”

Joey King completely transforms and dedicates herself to the role of Gypsy Blanchard.

King has recently been seen in movies like “The Kissing Booth,” playing romantic leads and good girls, but in her role as Gypsy, King shaves her head, wears several sets of fake teeth, and changes her voice to match the high pitch, childish tone of Gypsy.

“It’s crazy though because with a role like Gypsy, no matter how much prep you do, no matter how much research you do, no matter how much script work you do, nothing will prepare you,” King told E news. “Along with shaving my head, putting in the fake teeth, I wear several stages of fake teeth throughout the entire series, and being in the wheelchair. Being in Gypsy’s clothing, all of it.”

The most impressive part of King’s role as Gypsy is the progression of the character. Throughout the seven years Gypsy grows up, she realizes she is much older than the age her mother tells her she is and you can see her go from a little girl to a woman.

“Big change between the first episode and the eighth episode — there is a big difference because the story takes place over seven years and her voice dropped a little bit. I wanted people to see, ‘Hey it’s a big passage of time. She did grow up a little bit,’” stated King to E! News.

Entertainment 7

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

Student Spotlight of the Week:

Kyle Kiefer

JULIANNA FERRARA STAFF WRITER

“P

owerlines: A New Play Festival With Hard Hats” will be lighting up Ives Hall for its second year this week, and for Sonoma State University playwright Kyle Kiefer, it’s crunch time to the premier with his featured production “Eat Your Heart Out” starting on April 4.

“I knew I didn’t want to do Graphic Design after Cal Poly Pomona,” said Kiefer. “I saw myself doing theatre down the line.”

Originally a Graphic Design and Creative Writing student at Solano Community College and Cal Poly Pomona, Kiefer came to Sonoma State once he shifted gears and came to the conclusion that theatre was more of his forte.

It’s through this journey that the upcoming festival’s audience can experience through similar specs, the birth of “Eat Your Heart Out,” an “otherworldly plane” where, “a doorway opens to possibility, while a tortured soul peers through.”

“I had actually come up with the basis for my play while taking a class in Creative Writing at my community college before I transferred to Sonoma State,” said Kiefer.

During script applications, Kiefer added more dialogue and turned the story into script format. He then submitted it for review to festival director and Director of Theatre Studies Scott Horstein.

Horstein along with a board of professors chose his play along with three others’ to be featured in the 2019 festival.

An immense passion for theatre entails much more than just acting. High level theatre and production work after school is the goal for Kiefer. “I’m more on the design and script writing side.”

A Theatre Arts major with a focus in technical theatre, Kiefer has shown a keen interest in backstage work where designers and directors are the foundation behind every production.

This is the exact experience Kiefer is getting from his play. “I can offer advice, but I’m not the

STAR // Emily Kowalski “Eat Your Heart Out” writer and Theatre Arts major Kyle Kiefer jumps for joy in preparation for the premiere of his play. student director.”

Director, Lily Fernandez has done amazing work on “Eat Your Heart Out.” Kiefer’s use of fast paced dialogue and witty retort within the script does not translate on stage as seamlessly as one might think.

Fernandez, “has had to pick up the slack on that and has done really, really well,” said Kiefer.

The biggest challenge Kiefer and other theatre students currently face are the extensive “tech days” ahead. Running from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., technical days consist of lengthy 12 hour periods of running the entire show multiple times where every acute detail both large and small are fine tuned.

This along with multiple rehearsals, three times per week since February has certainly been a hurdle.

It’s to be noted that Kiefer has also done the set design for last fall’s production of, “Mr. Burns, A Post Electric Play,” at Sonoma State.

“One of the things that make me so passionate about theatre is that when someone comes and sees a show, I have one and a half to two hours to get

a full range of emotions and an entire story to an audience,” said Kiefer, who throughout his time at Sonoma State has not only found his niche in theatre arts but also a strong comradery amongst fellow students. Kiefer’s background in graphic design did not encompass the same amount of support that he has received from peers at Sonoma State.

“I actually want to stay with script writing, it’s probably the most fun I‘ve had at Sonoma State so far.”

“Each designer does the full production design for their short play – sets, costumes, and props – they get to design the whole world,” said Horstein.

Join Kiefer and his colleagues at Ives Hall starting this Thursday, April 4 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $6 for the public or free for Sonoma State students with ID. Tickets can be purchased through the box office phone number or online using the promo code “SSUStudent” for free tickets, faculty and staff use code, “SSUFacStaff ” for discounted tickets.

A first time being featured in the Juried Art Exhibition, she said, “I was excited to see everyone’s work since I know many of the other students in the show and haven’t seen all the pieces they have been working on. Even if I have seen the pieces in my classes it is fun to see how they’ve changed since the class critiques or to see them in a gallery setting.”

The art displayed varies drastically, from embroidery embedded paintings all the way to “Carson Hill Mine,” an archival inkjet photographic print submitted by fourth year art studio major Alexa Bolton.

Excited to present her work, Bolton shows her creative transition from self proclaimed “tongue-incheek” photo collage pieces to the now displayed documentary style practice.

Alongside the exploration of femininity, she explores a unique idea of art. “It is my belief that an artist operates as an intermediary between the literal and visual realms,” she said. “Through my own work I aim to explore personal narratives, presenting my observations in an honest acknowledgement of humanity in all manners of glory and fault.”

Drawing inspiration from everything around her, social media and news outlets all the way to “the far reaches of my subconscious,” Bolton believes that “inspiration can be found anywhere, but creativity is incited in response.”

As the exhibit is a very selective display, many student artists unfortunately did not have their work out for display this year.

However two art students, and friends of Bolton, have taken it upon themselves to arrange a separate, student run “No Show” exhibition at the same time.

Emily Murray, a fourth year Art Major and Art History minor, collaborated with fellow art student Ryan Patton to curate a small last minute show in the department office hallway just next door to the Juried Student show.

“Ryan Patton and I noticed that not as many works got in this year as there had been in previous years and thought it would be cool to see more work, so we decided to curate a show of our own to tie into the Juried show.”

With no faculty involvement, Murray and Patton contacted those not admitted to the Juried show, and set about getting their work the recognition of the student body.

“Ryan and I’s show wasn’t critiqued or judged, we had an open call for art and accepted everything that was offered to us. Our main goal was to present as much work as possible in an inviting way. We thought it would be a good curatorial challenge not to have a theme and it turned out to be an excellent body of work,” said Murray.

Excited by the amount of work they were able to put up, Murray who has been published in “Zaum”, the student literary magazine, and soon to be in the “Studio Visit” national art magazine this summer is familiar and understanding of the selective nature of the show.

“Of course I’ve had rejections before” Murray said, “including last year’s and this year’s Juried Shows and another juried show in Sebastopol. It’s part of the process.”

With both shows offering fantastic and diverse displays of the Sonoma State artistic process, it is well worth a saunter down the decorated hallway.

Engage with the artists themselves, and discuss the work that continues as a school tradition.

University Art Gallery welcomes select student pieces

AARON WASKOWIAK STAFF WRITER

I

n the early evening of Thursday, March 28, students mingled with faculty and community members in the University Art Gallery for the opening of the annual Juried Student Art Exhibition.

Susie Kantor, the associate curator of visual arts from the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts teamed up with Taravat Talepasand, department chair of painting from the San Francisco Art Institute to select 35 unique pieces of art submitted by students to display for the exhibition.

On display through April 21, the exhibition provides a peak into the creativity and an opportunity for student work to be critiqued on a professional level.

Rheannon Eisworth, previously featured in the Star as a student spotlight, is one of the many students displaying art this year.

Presenting an acrylic painting, Eisworth integrated embroidery into the piece and displayed it on an embroidery hoop. Eisworth created her work with an idea of feminism.

“My piece was definitely created to symbolize feminism. In my piece I used embroidery and an embroidery hoop to represent a generally feminine technique. The construction and framing are used to bring crafting into the fine arts space,” Eisworth explained, “Crafting has been, and often still is, seen as a woman’s form of art and is not often taken very seriously, so by combining crafting techniques into my paintings the viewer should consider my work with the same consideration as any fine art piece. I also painted a scene of the Women’s March to relate to the theme of feminism.”

A fifth-year student double majoring in Art Studio with a paint concentration and Business, Eisworth hopes to continue her art after school.

STAR // Kayla Allen A student piece in the Juried Student Art Exhibition at Sonoma State University Art Gallery.

8 Student Life

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

AXID offers a colorful way to contribute DEVON PIQUE

STAFF WRITER

O

n April 7 the sisters of Alpha Xi Delta (AXID) will host their philanthropy event, Step It Up, a color run taking place from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Sonoma State University track field. Members of the community will get the chance to participate in a color run, experience a myriad of different booths and help fundraise money for the Autism Speaks organization.

“It’s a color run and there’s going to be lots of booths there. There will be a lot of carnival games,” said AXID’s Philanthropy Vice President Natalie Gomez, “It’s a family and friend oriented event and a great way to spend your Sunday; going out and getting some exercise while also supporting a good cause.”

For those unfamiliar with a color run, essentially it’s a run with different stations where members of the sorority will throw chalk paint at the runners.

“Basically, you’ll be running around the track where we have three main colors: blue, pink and yellow,” said Gomez, “Under each color there’s a balloon arch of that color and that’s where the chalk paint will be thrown.”

You can also opt out of the “color” part of the color run and simply jog along the track. Booths with activities like cornhole, ring tosses and doughnuts on a string can also entertain those who show up.

Not only is Step It Up a hub of social activity, but it also serves a greater purpose. All proceeds go directly to an organization known as Autism Speaks.

This group seeks to raise money for autism and to assist families with members who have autism.

“I think this event is super important because not only do we fundraise for a great cause that I feel passionate about, as do all the girls in my chapter, but also because it gives people on and off campus the

COURTESY // Alpha Xi Delta Members of the sorority Alpha Xi Delta celebrate with colored chalk at a past Step It Up event. opportunity to go and contribute to that cause while going out and being active,” said Gomez.

This event has been on campus for quite some time now. According to Gomez, they’ve held Step It Up every spring semester since 2013. Many see the value that an event like this has.

“Step It Up is so important because it brings unity and fun back into topics that don’t seem to see the light as much,” said freshman AXID member Chloe Storrs, “You get friends and family coming together for one cause. It’s a fun way to just let loose, get some color on you and have a good time.”

Those in attendance and working there are happy to go out and have a good time while also contributing to a noble cause.

“Attending and working Step It Up last year was a great philanthropy experience and an amazing way for me to spend time with my sorority sisters, as well as people in the community,” said AXID member Celine VanZwol, “It’s good to see everyone gathered together to support a good cause, Autism Speaks.”

Tickets are $10 before the event and $12 the day of and can be bought at the box office in the Student Center or online at the box office’s website.

Hub tackles tough issues with ‘It’s A Guy Thing’ OLIVIA WILLIAMS

STAFF WRITER

T

he significant topics of hookup culture, consent and masculinity will be discussed at “It’s A Guy Thing,” a monthly casual group meeting that is open to all students at Sonoma State University.

This particular meeting will be held on Wed. April 3 from 6 – 7 p.m. in the HUB, located on the second floor of the Student Center. These meetups are for people of all genders to talk, share ideas and discuss the multiple challenges, responsibilities and advantages of being a man in today’s society.

Masculine is defined as “having qualities or appearance traditionally associated with men, especially strength and aggressiveness,” according to dictionary. com. The term has conjured up many different meanings throughout the recent years, with more people rejecting societal norms and gender stereotypes. while others still struggle with expectations.

“Growing up with two brothers in the 60’s, we were taught to be tough and powerful,” said Timothy Dean, a

father of a Sonoma State student. “Those ideas of toxic masculinity were thrown upon me at a very young age.”

The other topic, hookup culture, is especially prominent on college campuses and popular with the young age range of college students.

Hookup culture refers to the idea that casual sexual encounters are the best or only way to engage sexually.

The concept also refers to rules of social interaction that create casual sexual encounters and organizational arrangements that support these encounters. Today’s younger generations are generally more open, permissive and hopeful of the future than other generations, allowing them to seek out new experiences with different people.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), which is intended to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it.

Asking for consent is a healthy, normal and necessary part of everyday interactions, which is why the campaign theme of SAAM is “I Ask”.

Sonoma State has been very active in shedding light on this sensitive subject by holding many events

on campus throughout the years that encourage people to talk about this important issue, such as The Clothesline Project, which was created to bring awareness to the topic of violence against women.

“The fact that our school is actively participating in making people aware of sexual assault and its effects is very inspiring,” said Kevin Kingston, a freshman at Sonoma State. “College campuses need to be more transparent and straightforward with their students because this is a huge issue for us.”

The HUB is a great resource on campus that creates a space that includes everybody, allowing students to feel accepted and respected as individuals. The HUB stands for Honoring the past, Uniting the present and Building the future.

“We seek to understand ourselves as individuals by exploring the diverse variables and life circumstances that make who we are,” states the HUB webpage on Sonoma State’s website. “We bring this self-awareness to light so we can hare ourselves with each other and in doing so, learn to engage and respect each other’s experiences, insights and humanity.”

COURTESY // Sonoma State University Sonoma State students show off some of the bikes available in the bike Rental program.

Bike program geared towards students GARRETT KITCHEN STAFF WRITER

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ith the weather becoming warmer and dryer, Sonoma State University’s Campus Recreation bike rental program is perfect for students who want to enjoy the sun while being environmentally conscious.

The Campus Recreation bike rental program helps to offer affordable prices for students if they are looking for a sustainable or cheaper use of transportation at Sonoma State.

The program started in 2017 with the help of a grant from the California State Student Association’s Greenovation fund. The fund supports studentled sustainability projects at different CSU’s throughout the state. The bike rental program is looking to offer different ways of transportation that will decrease the amount of greenhouse gas

emissions to and from the university.

According to the website People for Bikes, “A reduction in carbon dioxide emissions through an increase in biking and walking for transportation has greater health benefits for a population than from the increased use of lower-emission motor vehicles.”

Megan Sollenberger, a third year Geography major, said that is is important for students to use these eco-friendly resources to help move towards creating a more sustainable environment.

Sollenberger said that these resources could lead to a larger decrease in the school’s carbon footprint in the coming years.

“I feel like students are motivated to create an eco-friendly environment because we all want to better the university for future generations of students at Sonoma State,” said Sollen-

berger. She said that the bike rentals are a more efficient mode of transportation than driving and that she would consider it if she lived on campus.

The rental bikes can be reserved online, along with filling out an agreement form with a credit card and student ID. The rentals cost $35 dollars at the beginning of the semester and can be kept until the last day of finals week.

The bikes are single cruiser bikes that come in many colors. The number of bikes is limited, so it is “first-come, first-serve” according to Campus Recreation.

Amy Saduddin, a third year Early Childhood Studies major, said that this is an important resource for students on Sonoma State’s campus.

“I think it’s a better decision to ride a bike over driving when the weather is nice, it saves gas and is better for the

Earth,” said Saduddin. She added that she would recommend this resource to other students since it is a very reasonable price to rent a bike.

Julia Cioffi, a second year Criminal Justice major, said that the students of Sonoma State have the power to create these sustainable options for the university and the community as well.

She said that she has seen our school become more eco-friendly since she has started here.

“Our Rec Center is almost entirely a self-sustaining building. We have campus clean-ups, and next to almost every trash can there’s also recycling and compost bins,” said Cioffi. She added that our school has done a good job at keeping our carbon footprint below other schools. “I think that is something very unique to our campus and something we should take pride in.”

Student Life 9

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

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Top 6 places to study on campus GABRIELLA NOVELLO STAFF WRITER

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onoma State University is a beautiful campus with many different unique places. With all the students that attend it, sometimes it can be hard to find the best spot to study. The environment you’re studying in can often determine how well you’re able to concentrate and absorb the material you’re learning. According to Western Governors University, when looking for a place to study, you should consider if the area has good lighting, the right amount of background noise for you, is not too distracting and is a place you feel

1: Wine Spectator Learning Center

4: Library, third floor outdoor patio

STAR // Christine von Raesfeld

STAR // Christine von Raesfeld A quiet study space on the inside the Wine Spectator Learning Center.

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onoma State’s newest building has the perfect tables inside and outside the building,with outlets too for that moment when your computer is about to die. The center also has the perfect temperature.

In some places, such as the library, it can get cold but in this spot you’re guaranteed to be comfortable. Also, don’t forget about the fact it’s a new building, with that comes a new code and fire protection.

“I love studying at the wine business center because the new and improved infrastructure makes me feel more safe in case of a natural disaster,” said Lucas Pfeiffer, a

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2: Student Center study rooms

he library isn’t the only place with study rooms. On the second floor of the student center there are multiple rooms you have the ability to rent out.

To do so, you just go to the front desk of the student center and they’ll hold your student ID. These rooms not only have the ability to hold a number of individuals but the spaces also encompass projectors, tables, outlets and are a nicely lit space.

comfortable in.

While the library offers wonderful resources such as CSU+, Subject Librarians and the 24/7 chat line, the library might not be the ideal place for you to study in or meet up for group prjects. Everyone has their own tried-and-true study preferences, but whether you’re looking for a place to work with a group or need a new place to sprawl out and read your text books, there are spots on campus that are often overlooked and might just be the right fit for your needs.

The Sonoma State Library is a great place to find a secluded study spot.

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s we’re entering spring, it’s getting nicer out. Meaning students now have the ability to soak up the sun while doing homework without looking like they just took a shower in the rain. When you walk up the stairs to the third floor of the library and turn left, if you continue walking there will be a patio located on your right.

With three tables and two benches, this would be an ideal place to read for class or to meet with groups. Also with shelves of books just inside, the outdoor seating area turns study time into relaxing time with a view of both Verdot and Zinfandel Village.

Make sure to bring paper weights to prevent worksheets flying around on windy days.

5: Student Center, first floor fire place

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ven though this area gets crowded around lunch time, there are normally many comfortable spots with outlets, giving students the perfect spot to study. The “I enjoy studying at the Student Center because of it’s inviting nature with the fireplace. It has the perfect mix of conversation around that doesn’t provide for too quiet of an environment.” said Nour Hamza, an Early Childhood Studies major.

3: Stevenson, first floor study center

6: Charlie Brown’s Café and patio

STAR // Christine von Raesfeld

STAR // Gabriella Novello

The study room on the first floor of Stevenson on the North side of the building next to the School of Education.

Students Brenden Gallardo and Tyee Stokman work together on the outside patio of Charlie Brown’s in McCabe Plaza.

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n the first floor of Stevenson there is a nice space which gives students a great environment to be able to concentrate. An advantage to this area is not a lot of people know about it so it’s usually never too crowded, giving you the ability to focus on your studies. The study area is a comfortable space, with both high tables and booths and easily accessible vending machines.

“There’s a wide variety of snacks in the vending machines also, which I love. Make sure your laptop is charged though, there’s no outlets and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t unplug the vending machine once to charge my laptop…desperate times,” says Daniela Zarich, a Chemistry major.

lthough Charlie Brown’s is a widely known spot, it is still a great place to sit down and do some work. The patio and indoor areas geat crowded during lunch, so make sure to grab a spot early. The secluded tables in the back of the cafe are a great place to sit because if you get the munchies while doing work, you’ve got a whole cafe at your fingertips.

“I like studying in Charlie Browns because it’s a good place to meet up with class members for group projects or just to simply study alone. This has honestly been my place since freshman year, it holds great memories,” said Juliana Wells, an Early Childhood Studies Major.

10 Sports

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

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Women’s water polo loses to UCSB

JACKSON WALDRON STAFF WRITER

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he water polo team faced one of their toughest challenges yet when they squared off against the University of Santa Barbara Gauchos. The Gauchos are the #15 team in the nation and boasted a 17-5 record coming into the game.

“Going into it we knew it was going to be a really tough game. We were really focused on competing with them and keeping up with the speed of their game,” said senior, Taylor Brooks.

The game was played in spurts of rain at the Seawolves home pool, Dr. G. Edward Rudloff pool. The first quarter of the game saw the Gauchos seize immediate control. 19 seconds into the game, UCSB scored. After some penalty trouble and conceding a breakaway goal, the Seawolves were down 6-0 at the end of the first quarter.

The Seawolves would find the back of the net in the second quarter from a well placed shot by Amanda Weddle. Brooks would also score after she blasted a shot between defenders and the goalie to make it 9-2. The Seawolves would then concede two more goals before the half closed with a score of 11-2 in favor of the Gauchos.

An early penalty from the Gauchos resulted in Jojo Williams scoring 50 seconds into the third quarter. After two goals in response from UCSB, Jojo Wil-

liams would score on another nice finish while the Seawolves were playing man up. The quarter would end with the Gauchos up 16-5.

The Seawolves were outscored 6-1 in the final quarter, with the final score of the game being 22-6. The team hopes to take this loss against difficult competition to better themselves for their remaining games. “It was a good challenge for us and that set the tone for us to play hard for these next couple of games,” said Brooks.

The team would then go on the road for a Saturday matchup against Cal State East Bay. The Seawolves went down early with the score at 3-0 at the end of the first quarter. Heading into the fourth quarter, SSU was down 8-4. The final quarter saw the Seawolves score three goals while holding their opposition scoreless.

Although the comeback fell short, the team has plenty to be excited about heading into their final games of the season. Their next three games will all be played at home and the team hopes to use this to their advantage. “We’re super excited to play at our home pool. It’ll be nice to play in a pool we’re familiar with along with our home crowd!,” said Brooks.

Their next game will be played on Saturday, April 6 against Fresno Pacific.

Followed by a 9 a.m. tilt against UC San Diego on April 7.

STAR // Kayla Allen

STAR // Kayla Allen

Sophmore Brooke Sullivan blocks the ball from a goal against opposing team UCSB at Sonoma State on March 28.

Sophmore Hailey Gellert passes to her teammates to help score in a game at Sonoma State on March 28.

Equestrian Club has outstanding year

JOEY PIOMBO STAFF WRITER

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he Equestrian Club was founded in 2008. Since then they have been competing in shows across the country. Each club member is not required to have a horse or riding experience.

The club consists of two types of riders, English and Western.

First, the English riding stable is located down the road from campus on Petaluma Hill Road. English riding is unique because this category does jumping with the horses.The western stable is located nearby in Sebastopol. Western is unique because it has more rodeo style characteristics. People can perform roping and racing. The club primarily does Equitation. This consists of basically how one looks when riding a horse.

First, the western team ended up finishing first at the College of the Sequoias show as well as the Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo show. When asked about the team’s progression throughout the season western team member Marissa Mullins explained, “This was the first year our team has been competitive against the big schools and we finished the season second as a whole team”. The team's success shows that they will be a force to be reckoned with in competitions in years to come. On top of the team accomplishments, three members Marissa Mullins, Katrina Lane, and Danielle Phillipi competed in Regionals and all went on to qualify for semifinals in Ocala, Florida.

The club’s president, Marissa Mullins ended up placing 8th at the semi-finals show. This was actually the first placement in team history at a competition of that caliber. The western team has completed their competitions for the school year and will start back up in October.

The English team has had a successful season as well. With competitions against teams like Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley, and University of California, Davis, the club has only continued to grow their skills this season. This year the team members went on to win their first of hopefully many, first place ribbons. When talking about individual success, Maddison Marnin said, “This year I scored the second highest points for all of the f lat classes, a total of th 32 this year, competing in seven shows.”

The season is wrapping up for the English team but two members still are fighting to qualify for nationals. On April 6, Madison Marina and Sanne Put will be competing in the Zones competition at Stanford University. This is a huge competition because both girls have the chance of qualifying for nationals in Syracuse, New York.

When talking to first-year competitor Emily Perez, it was no surprise that her first year was a great experience. She said, “This year was my first year competing so it was very exciting for me to come back from shows with ribbons of all different places”. The team hopes to continue their success next season. Despite all the success the team has had this year it is still important to continue to work hard and not be complacent.

Perez explains her plans for next year when saying, “My goal for next season is to keep doing better, whether I bring home a ribbon or not, I always have something I know I can improve”.

On April 6 some team members will be fighting for a chance to qualify for nationals. The western team plan to continue their success next October with a fresh season. Visit ssuequestrian.weebly.com to follow the club on their journey next year.

COURTESY // Sonoma State Equestrain Club From left to right: Founder and coach of the club Shelly Davis, Danielle Phillipi, President Marissa Mullins, Katrina Lane, and coach Peter Larson.

Sports 11

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

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COURTESY // sonomaseawolves.com The team huddles together on the mound during their 4-3 win against Central Washington on March 31.

Sonoma State Softball wins the Tournament of Champions

HOLLY CHANDLER STAFF WRITER

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Win streak extends to 11 games

he Sonoma State Seawolves softball team won the Tournament of Champions in Turlock, California with a 5-0 record this past weekend on March 29-31.

With the five games this weekend they advanced their winning streak to 11 games. The Seawolves defeated Western Oregon 8-4, Chaminade 18-7, Simon Fraser 8-0, Saint Martin’s 5-1, and Central Washington 4-3.

The Seawolves overall record now stands at 21-9 and a conference record of 11-6 which puts them in third place behind UC San Diego and Chico State.

Sonoma State softball will return to league play this upcoming weekend April 5 and 6 against Cal State San Marcos at the CSUSM softball field.

In the final game of the tournament freshman Cassidy Romano connected for a three-run homer and finished with a total of six RBIs and seven hits for the weekend.

Romano said, “I think as a team we are a lot more connected outside of softball now than we did at the beginning of the season.” She continued her statement when she said, “I think we trust each other more now on the field too and that helps with being confident with each other when a ball is hit to someone and knowing they are going to make the play.”

Pitcher Brielle Vidmar threw a five-inning shutout against Simon Fraser and collected a total of three wins in the tournament.

Vidmar said, “I have pitched in this conference and against most teams from

THOMAS PETERSCHMIDT STAFF WRITER

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other conferences the past three years, so I am comfortable and I am aware of what each team has to offer.” Vidmar said, “I am confident in myself and how I have done in the past years and I have progressed as a pitcher. My defense has been doing a great job lately and it makes my job easier. I create the routine plays and they get it done.”

Senior Jordann White has been hot all season and batted in 11 RBI’s and one home run in the Tournament of Champions. This is no surprise from White, who currently holds a .390 batting average.

Other standout players from the Seawolves were Lindsey Calcanyblair with eight RBI’s, pitcher Teresa Danenberg with the win against Chaminade, and pitcher Camille Rodriguez with the win against Saint Martin’s.

As a senior on the team Calcanyblair has been an excellent leader and an extremely hard worker. When asked how it felt to go undefeated for her last year in Tournamnet of Champions she said, “It feels amazing! It always feels so great to get something that you truly earned. I can truly say that we earned this tournament win because everybody did their part in each and every game.”

Hopefully the Seawolves can keep up their winning streak in next weekends series against Cal State San Marcos. You can catch the scores and further information on next weekends games on sonomaseawolves.com. Sonoma State softball’s next home games will be April 12 and 13 against Cal State San Bernardino.

Athlete Spotlight: Bailey Stone

ailey Stone is a 3rd-year collegiate athlete of track and field and cross country.

She competes for Sonoma State year long. While competing in track and field and in cross country, Stone finds that quitting is not an option as she participates even if she is running or not.

With her long history of running throughout high school the sport becomes more than just a hobby, but a part of who Stone is. With a goal to stay healthy for the whole year and to compete in her favorite race, the 800 meter, Stone has had an ongoing battle with an injury in her knee. With all the reasons to stop, Stone continues to step up to the starting blocks and strives to not let her teammates and coaches down.

“I love the competition,” said Stone. Track and field competitions fuel the fire that allows Stone to keep fighting through the ups and downs of the sport.

Stone is “happy to be running” and finds it therapeutic. With a dramatic knee injury last year in March, Stone had to take off all of Cross Country which pushed her out of the running loop.

Even when Bailey can not run she still puts in support to her teammates and coaches. “Bailey has been at every single practice, whether she could run or not,” said Jasmine Casillas.

With the sport of running as the centerpiece of the activity, the mental aspect can be even more daunting than the physical. “I am trying to come back into it not physically but mentally,” said Stone.

With a number to physical ailments, Stone seems to never give in as a fulltime students and year long athlete, which is shown in her idols of Colleen Quigley and Emma Coburn. Both are a professional track and field runners, but most importantly they are stars in the eye of Stone due to their mental aptitude to stick with running even after their numerous and similar confidence-shattering injuries.

To have the inability to compete as a runner is not just a physical chore, but a mental challenge. The helplessness of waiting for Stone’s body to recover can only be fostered by a strong mind and a determined will power.

Reminiscing on Stone’s last years meet against Chico State, she got a PR in the 800 meter with a 2:28 time. “[I] went into it not expecting to do well. [I] got out and ran and didn’t see anyone around me. It became a race against me and the clock,” said Stone.

“Bailey is a natural leader, her ability to pump up the team when we need it most is so important on this team,” said Mikayla Mesker, a fellow track and field teammate.

Stone’s contribution to the team is not just limited to just participating in the meet as an athlete, but as participating as a side coach to mentor the runners through both practices and meets.

Senior Track Captain, Taylor Towne, has noticed Stone’s support to the younger teammates. “I know a lot, if not all the younger girls look up to Bailey. She just naturally took them under her wing and has been the person that they go to for anything” said Towne.

As Stone is currently strong enough to run, but not compete in a meet, she always has her eyes on the making her teammate's futures better. Stone has one more year at Sonoma State and she will be apart of the running sports no matter what obstacles get in the way. The women's track and field team have several meets coming up this semester if you want to be apart of them visit the online schedule at Sonoma State sports.

COURTESY // Bailey Stone Junior Bailey Stone, number 1, competes for Sonoma State’s cross country team as well as the track and field team

12 Photo

APRIL 2 - APRIL 8, 2019

sonomastatestar.com

STAR // Christine von Raesfeld Student Nalin Wangel-Komisar (left) receives a haircut from Renee Ardoin (right) of Lytle’s Beauty College during Trans Week of Visibility’s “Hair and Makeup” event.

STAR // Christine von Raesfeld

STAR // Kayla Allen Student Aaron Quinnell smiles next to his work that is displayed at the Art Juried Student Exhibition in the Art Building.

Student Nalin Wangel-Komisar sits still while Renee Ardoin styles and trims the back of Nalin Wangel-Komisar’s head.

#SummersCool

STAR // Brandon Sparks Erick Maldonado reaches up for a spike during intramurals.

$500 Scholarship?

Sweet!

We’re here to help. Qualified applicants get $500 for Summer Session courses with a GPS or Senior Scholarship.

Apply Online: sonoma.education/GPS19 Applications must be submitted by April 22, 2019

STAR // Brandon Sparks Spencer Starr gets ready for the volleyball coming her way.