01-23-2014

SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY VOLUME 100, ISSUE 36 JANUARY 23, 2014

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

#STUDENTSUCCESSFEE

SDSU considers student fee increase ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR San Diego State’s Campus Fee Advisory Committee is enlisting the help of students in deciding the fate of a proposed permanent fee increase aimed at bolstering the teaching staff.

At a series of forums starting Feb. 3, CFAC is inviting students to vote on the size and scope of the fee potential increase, which it has named the “Student Success Fee.” Associated Students President Josh Morse said this alternative consultation approach is new for CFAC and if it proves successful, it may be used for future fee increases.

“Normally, it would be: Here’s a fee increase; hope you’re cool with it,” Morse said. “But now we are asking the students to let us know what they think.”

At each of these forums, students will be given ballots with options ranging from $500 to $200 per semester CFAC member and associate dean of the College of Professional Studies & Fine Arts Kathy LaMaster said. If students approve the $500 fee increase, SDSU will be able

to permanently hire 200 tenure-track professors, LaMaster said. The $200 fee increase would guarantee only 80 tenuretrack professors.

“We want to know if there’s an interest or tolerance among students before we make any major changes,” LaMaster said.

Though 90 percent of the money made from the Student Success Fee would be put toward hiring teachers, the last 10 percent would be divided among the colleges and used at the discretion of their respective college councils, LaMaster said.

The fee is what is known as a Category II, which means 100 percent of the money stays on campus.

“In an ideal world, students will take the full fee increase, but we understand that money can be tight, especially for students at a public university,” LaMaster said.

Even with the full fee implemented, LaMaster said SDSU will still be short of recovering 238 faculty and almost 1,000 course sections the school has lost since 2008.

LaMaster said the fee increase was inspired by similar increases at California SEE FEE INCREASE P3

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here’s my money, man?

Here are the top 10 most expensive schools in the California State University system, based on 201314 CSU tuition & fee rates. See, it could be worse ...

San Luis Obispo San Jose

$8,724 $7,343

Sonoma $7,234 Humboldt

$7,144

San Marcos

$7,069

Chico $6,972 Bakersfield

$6,775

SDSU $6,766 Stanislaus

$6,664

Sacramento $6,628

Statistics provided by calstate.edu

LUKE HENNING

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2014

NEWS

3

impact

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Transform the lives of children with a Master of Arts in Education from Pepperdine.

Students will be given the option to attend forums and vote on the new fee considered for future semesters. Open forums will be held at various locations. STAFF PHOTO

FEE INCREASE FROM P2

State University, San Marcos and California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo State University. SDSU’s total fees rank No. 8 in the entire CSU system, LaMaster said.

“What many students don’t realize is we can’t exactly go to the CSU system to ask for money,” LaMaster said. “We have to find most of the money on our own.”

The fee would be implemented gradually during a four-year period, SDSU’s Chief Communications Officer Greg Block said. Though the fee increase will probably not directly affect

most current SDSU students, Block said students should consider the next generation awt SDSU. “When I was a student at SDSU in the ’90s, we approved a fee increase and then after I graduated they broke ground on what would become Viejas Arena, the ARC and the Aquaplex,” Block said. “My question to students is how would your experience at SDSU be different without those buildings?”

The forums will be held twice a day, Monday through Thursday and once a day Friday until Feb. 21 and will be hosted by a variety of campus organizations.

Graduate Campuses: West Los Angeles Encino • Irvine • Westlake Village

Start your transformation today. 310.568.2366 or 866.503.5467 gsep-recruitment@pepperdine.edu • gsep.pepperdine.edu

4

thursday, January 23, 2014

who’swho

#sorrynotsorry

Editor In Chief Leonardo Castaneda Managing Editor Ana Ceballos News Editor Hannah Beausang

10 Things

assistant News Editor Luke Henning Sports Editor Adriana Bush Opinion Editor Madison Hopkins

I’m not sorry for in 2014 Courtesy of Thinkstock

Briana Alford staff columnist

As 2013 came to a close and 2014 approached, I started to think about the resolutions I was going to conquer in the upcoming year. After reading a long list of things I wanted to change about myself on Jan. 1, I realized I had my own little new year at the beginning of the semester. Since I can remember, I’ve been one of those people to easily fall into the trap of feeling bad about certain things.

Fortunately, this past fall I changed my ways. Here is a list of resolutions that I’ll continue (and you should too) to feel unapologetic about in 2014.

1. Not texting back promptly This past semester made me realize something­—I’m a busy woman. With 15 units of upper division classes, extracurricular activities and a 20-hourper-week job, my cell phone was easily neglected. Some of my friends and family would get upset if I didn’t text back, but I’ve decided working toward being the next Olivia Pope can be a full-time job. As students know, class and studying can take numerous hours so if you can’t text back the people in your inbox immediately, don’t feel bad. Don’t even feel bad if you can’t respond in 12 hours because you’re working on your future and whatever they’re saying (unless it’s an emergency) can probably wait.

Some of my friends and family would get upset if I didn’t text back, but I’ve decided working toward becoming the next Olivia Pope can be a full-time job.

2. Being single When I bumped into various people this break, a common question that I noticed from the majority of them was, “Are you dating anyone?” The first couple of times I felt bad that I wasn’t. Then I realized, I’m a young college student and it’s OK if I haven’t met “the one” yet. Just because you’re now in your 20s doesn’t mean you have to start looking for your husband or wife. It’s completely possible to get married in your early 20s. It’s also completely fine to be single and dating or single and not even looking. As a millennial child, I’m OK with being a little selfish and continuing to casually date as many Mr. Right Nows as I please while I work on

perfecting myself for my future husband.

3. Being a coffee addict I’ve read the statistics about how bad coffee is for your health and teeth. I know that I would be a healthier person without my fix every day, but to me, it’s my sanity.

At the end of my rainbow is a pot of coffee, and my mornings shine once I’ve had a cup.

4. Taking a mental health day Last semester, I was overwhelmed with midterms, the Grammar, Spelling and Punctuation test and 8-hour shifts on the weekends. My stress level was hitting an all-time high. Usually, I would push through it, but I felt if I went on any further I would probably have a mental breakdown. I checked my syllabus to make sure nothing major was going on in class and called into work. Just because I wasn’t physically sick, my brain still had a little cold that needed to be taken care of. So if you need a mental health day, I suggest you do so. Sleep for hours, indulge in a series on Netflix, eat a carton of Ben & Jerry’s or go on a hike. Do whatever you need to do to be refreshed and back at it for the next day.

5. Not looking perfect all the time Every time I scroll on Kim Kardashian’s Instagram, I get distraught that I can’t look as immaculate all the time. Then I realize that it’s her job to wake up every day and have her glam squad spray-paint her face.

She doesn’t have to be at for an 8 a.m. class after pulling an all-nighter for a midterm.

If I come to class not looking like my fullest potential, I shouldn’t be judged for it. Luckily, Beyoncé taught us that it’s OK to wake up like this, #flawless.

6. Splurging on yourself as a reward I think for every major accomplishment that we have, we should reward ourselves.

I’m not saying go buy a purse every time you get a C on your weekly Spanish quiz, but if you pass your geology final with an A after studying for 24 hours, you deserve that Nordstrom’s blazer you’ve been wanting.

7. Having an adult beverage on a week day Having a margarita on a Taco Tuesday

in Pacific Beach or merlot with your girls on a Wine Wednesday isn’t a bad thing every once in a while. If you’re doing it in moderation and still keeping your educational life intact, there’s really no harm in a calmer version of your Friday festivities.

8. Getting help from your parents or family members I hear a lot of my friends express how guilty they feel about having their parents help them with rent and other bills. While a selfless nature is a beautiful thing that develops in adulthood, if your parents want to help and offer to pay for some things, I say, take it. My parents help me out with funds that deal with school because they believe they’re also investing in my education. So if Mom and Dad are OK with taking care of you for this short time in your life, let them because sooner than later you’ll be taking care of them with the money your degree will provide.

9. Speaking about how you truly feel I learned the hard way that you have to speak up and demand the respect you deserve. If you want that open position at work, express it to the manager. If you’re not interested in that obnoxious person that keeps talking to you at the bar, tell them. If you don’t get something your professor is teaching, be that student and raise your hand. No one will ever know how you feel if you keep your thoughts in your head.

10. Being me and all the flaws that come along with it I can be grumpy, anxious, dramatic, messy and naïve. But, I can also be funny, fearless, witty, creative and kind. My waist isn’t as small as I would like it to be, but I also think I have desirable Angelina Jolie lips. With every negative flaw, there’s a beauty in the breakdown. The older I get, the more I realize who I am and I shouldn’t change things about myself that others don’t see as admirable. Accepting yourself is one of the most challenging things that humans deal with. The closer you are to coming to terms with who you are, the more at peace you’ll be with yourself and relentless of the actions that you have.

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SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY

PROPOSED STUDENT SUCCESS FEE

Shall a new mandatory Student Success Fee be established effective Fall 2014?

The proposed fee level per semester, if this fee is approved, will be determined through a series of public forums and consultations with interested regularly-enrolled students at San Diego State University, except those exclusively attending Imperial Valley Campus.

OPEN FORUM TIMES* DATE

TIME

LOCATION

HOST ORGANIZATION

Monday, Feb. 3

11:00 am

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Monday, Feb. 3

3:00 pm

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Tuesday, Feb. 4 Tuesday, Feb. 4 Wednesday, Feb. 5

12:30 pm 4:00 pm 1:00 pm

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Associated Engineering Student Council SDSU Ambassadors & Undeclared Student Council

Wednesday, Feb. 5 Thursday, Feb. 6 Thursday, Feb. 6 Friday, Feb. 7

4:00 pm 8:30 am 12:30 pm 11:00 am

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Monday, Feb. 10

10:00 am

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Monday, Feb. 10 Tuesday, Feb. 11 Tuesday, Feb. 11 Wednesday, Feb. 12 Wednesday, Feb. 12 Thursday, Feb. 13 Thursday, Feb. 13 Friday, Feb. 14

6:00 pm 8:30 am 4:00 pm 9:00 am 3:00 pm 12:30 pm 4:00 pm 10:00 am

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Fowler Athletic Center Auditorium Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Theatre, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Monday, Feb. 17

10:00 am

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Monday, Feb. 17

1:00pm

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Tuesday, Feb. 18 Tuesday, Feb. 18

8:30 am 1:00 pm

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Wednesday, Feb. 19 Wednesday, Feb. 19 Thursday, Feb. 20 Thursday, Feb. 20

12:00 pm 4:00 pm 8:30 am 4:00 pm

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union Theatre, Aztec Student Union

College of Sciences Student Council

College of Arts & Letters Student Council Afrikan Student Union

Associated Students Graduate Student Association College of Health & Human Services Student Council College of Professional Studies & Fine Arts Student Council Associated Business Students Council Honors Council College of Education Student Council

Friday, Feb. 21 12:00 pm Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union ___________________________________________________________________________

*Please bring your current SDSU Card ID to the forum of your choosing.

Forum dates, time and locations are subject to change. Please visit http://studentsuccessfee.sdsu.edu for details.

Background

In response to several recent years of severe reductions in state-support for SDSU, the administration is developing a new financial model for the university. This includes pursuing multiple ways to enhance campus resources. One example is the successful comprehensive campaign that has provided significant funds for student scholarships.

Last year the students, faculty and staff embarked on a strategic planning process that culminated in the “Building on Excellence” plan. Focusing on three broad institutional goals of: Student Success, Research and Creative Endeavors, and Community and Communication, this plan sets forth ambitious initiatives for our campus. Building on Excellence identifies initiatives and objectives for each of the institutional goals. A primary initiative in both Student Success and Research and Creative Endeavors is the need to increase tenured/tenure-track faculty by investing significant resources when funding is available. Resources available to support instruction were greatly impacted by the campus reductions, resulting in a significant decrease in the number of faculty (approximately 238 tenured/tenure-track faculty since 2008).

Faculty are essential to SDSU’s mission, they provide for the intellectual growth of our students, attract external grants, and contribute to the prestige to the San Diego State University degree and overall educational value.

Uses of Student Success Fee Revenue

This alternative consultation process seeks student input regarding the proposed implementation of a Student Success Fee, effective fall 2014, between $200 and $500 per semester (see Financial Analysis). This new fee will allow the University to hire additional tenure-track faculty and provide funds to the colleges for enhancing student success through expanded academic related programs.

Increasing the number of faculty would result in a net gain of course sections available to students and contribute to their educational experience. In Fall 2007, there were 3762 course sections offered to students compared to Fall 2012 where only 3062 were available. A portion (10%) of the fee would be dedicated to enhancing student success at the college level through expanded academic related programs. Guidelines for allowable academically-related uses will be recommended by a student majority Student Success Fee Advisory sub-committee of the Campus Fee Advisory Committee (CFAC) and allocations will be reviewed annually.

Summary of the Issue

A Recommendation in favor of the proposed fee increase means: 1. The frequency and number of course sections offered to enable students to complete

their degrees within four years will be increased.

2. The number of tenured/tenure-track faculty who provide the leadership for SDSU’s academic programs will be increased.

3. Funding to support new or expand existing academically-related programs or initiatives at the college level will be increased.

A Recommendation in opposition to the establishment of the proposed Student Success fee increase means: 1. Revenues from a student success fee will not be available to support an increase in course sections offered at SDSU. 2. Revenues from a student success fee will not be available to support new tenured/tenure-track faculty positions.

3. Revenues from a student success fee will not be available to support new or expand existing academically-related programs or initiatives.

Financial Analysis

The State of California has undergone a transformational shift in how higher education is funded. Since 2008, SDSU’s state appropriation has been reduced from $221 million to $143 million, a reduction of $78 million. Currently, the state appropriation represents less than 20% of the overall operating budget for San Diego State University. This loss of funding has greatly impacted the opportunities that are available for students. Revenues from the proposed Student Success Fee will generate significant funding to increase the number of faculty members, as well as the number of course sections offered at SDSU. The proposed student success fee, if adopted, will impose a new fee on San Diego State University students, except those exclusively attending the Imperial Valley Campus, equal to $200, $300, $400, or $500 per semester and adjusted annually by the Higher Education Price Index beginning Fall 2018. The exact level of the fee will be determined based on feedback collected by this alternative consultation process. The fee will be phased in over a four-year period as shown in the table below.

Fee Implementation Schedule $200 per semester

2014/15

2015/16

2016/17

2017/18

2018/19

50 50

25 100 100

50 150 150

75 200 200

100 206 206

2014/15

2015/16

2016/17

2017/18

2018/19

75 75

38 150 150

75 225 225

113 300 300

150 309 309

2014/15

2015/16

2016/17

2017/18

2018/19

100 100

50 200 200

100 300 300

150 400 400

200 412 412

2014/15

2015/16

2016/17

2017/18

2018/19

125 125

63 250 250

125 375 375

188 500 500

250 515 515

Fee Summer Fee Fall Fee Spring $300 per semester Fee Summer Fee Fall Fee Spring $400 per semester Fee Summer Fee Fall Fee Spring $500 per semester Fee Summer Fee Fall Fee Spring

[a]

[a]

[a]

[a]

[a] Annual fee increase based on Higher Education Price Index starting in Fall 2018 (figures shown are an estimated amount).

Fee Revenues

For example, a fee of $200 per semester is estimated to generate approximately $12.5 million in additional revenue. Ninety percent of these new funds will be used to hire approximately 80 additional tenure-track faculty and approximately 360 additional course sections. The remaining ten percent of the revenue will be allocated to the colleges to fund academically related programs. The following table provides the estimates of the additional revenues generated by other fee levels and the impact on faculty hiring and course sections.

Total Revenue Est. Faculty (cumulative) Est. additional Course sections annually Academic related programs (10% estimated)

$200 per semester

$300 per semester

$400 per semester

$500 per semester

$12,487,500 80

$18,734,500 120

$24,975,000 160

$31,222,000 200

360

540

720

900

$1,249,000

$1,873,000

$2,498,000

$3,122,000

Prepared by the Campus Fee Advisory Committee

For more information, visit: http://studentsuccessfee.sdsu.edu

6 SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

thursday, January 23, 2014

#SDPReview

Know your city, make this an SD year Carmen huerta staff columnist

Study at the San Diego Public Library A New Year’s resolution to study more this semester can be calculated with great time management and a great location.

When and where we study is the key to

staying on track with our routines. The new San Diego Public Library opened downtown last year on Sept. 30, offering students a great location to study in the heart of the city. This library offers students and the rest of the community with meeting rooms, a homework help center and a great number of books and references

for research. This new semester, students should up the ante and venture off of campus for their studying needs.

Create a change on campus with A.S. elections Spring semester calls for one big event. No, it’s not GreenFest 2014, it’s the Associated Students elections in March.

This year the race to election season has an early start, with the application period for candidates opening up on Jan. 24.

Some of the general election open seats ready to be filled include the A.S. Board of Directors, Campus Life Council and University Council. There will be a four-day series of debates March 10-13 from 12-1 p.m. that any voting student should attend this year.

Get healthy at San Diego’s Cosmic Run This year my attempt at living a healthier lifestyle is at the top of my to-do list. I’ve noticed the routines I’ve tried to stick to have been boring. This sounds common for your typical college student; nonetheless, it shouldn’t be an excuse to make health and fitness unattainable.

Luckily, I came across the Cosmic Run. This is a 5-kilometer course held in the evening where people can run, jog, walk or dance the night away, and it’s coming to San Diego. This semester, let’s direct

our thinking to trying new and exciting methods of fitness. The Cosmic Run and Cosmic Run After-Party will take place at 7 p.m on Mar. 22 at Qualcomm Stadium.

College students shouldn’t have to give up on making fitness fun, especially when they need it to keep up with everything else that they do.

Voice your opinion in the mayoral election San Diego’s mayoral election last year had many hits and misses. One of the most significant and unfortunate moments was it’s low voter turnout. The National University System Institute for Policy Research predicted that less than half of all San Diegans registered to vote will actually cast their ballots. Not only is this a reflection of San Diego residents’ poor voting turnout, but it’s also a wake up call for San Diego college students’ political engagement.

On Feb. 11, San Diegans have a second chance to vote to determine the mayor of San Diego in the runoff election. If the names of the two City Council members David Alvarez and Kevin Faulconer don’t ring a bell, now is a perfect time to pay attention. With the remnants of last year’s special mayoral election, San Diego can finally move forward with its runoff election.

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thursday, January 23, 2014

SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

7

#hellogoodbye

GENERAL ELECTIONS!

Simon Shieh

As we say goodbye to some, San Diego State looks forward to new improvements and additions on Contributor campus.

The new Basketball Performance Center is set to leap off the blueprint and into its beginning stages of construction later this spring. Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Jim Sterk told Goaztecs.com it will be located in the space just south of the Fowler Athletics Center and will include locker rooms, team lounges, film rooms, an athletic training room and two full-sized basketball courts with eight baskets.

I’m not on the basketball team, nor do I know what it’s like being on a top-ranked college team. I do know what it is to be a serious and dedicated athlete, and I know that it takes long hours in the gym. Because the gym will also be a lounge and a film room, it will be conducive to strengthening the bonds of the players by giving them a communal second home. Our basketball team is one of the best college teams in the country, so it seems fitting “Because the gym that our players have a facility that will also be a lounge promotes their level of athleticism and and a film room, it commitment.

The new LGBTQ Pride Center is will be conducive to a modest building located where stregthening the bonds the current Student Organization of the players by giving Annex and will serve as headquarters them a communal for LGBT education, awareness second home. ” and research. With the new LGBT graduate certificate SDSU will offer starting Fall 2014, the center is a great addition to our campus. Besides its academic role, the center will also be available as a support service for students struggling with their own sexual and gender identity.

For LGBTQ individuals in our community, the center’s support service could be just as important as its academic role. A community is formed when people have the opportunity to meet others with whom they identify. I hope that the Pride Center can act, among other things, as a place for people to find common ground where they might have had difficulty finding it before.

The prospect of seeing development in LGBTQ scholarship is exciting. The graduate certificate and the Pride Center are sure to usher in a new wave of interest and activity in LGBT studies and bring

Sicily Famolaro

“I don’t know why you say goodbye, I say hello.” Thanks, Contributor Beatles, but I’m singing to a different tune. It’s time to say goodbye to two places you might love: the East Commons Starbucks and West Coast Sandwich Company.

So, when it’s eating time and you shuffle your hungry self to East Commons to get your daily Starbucks fix and a distinctly West Coastflavored sandwich, you’ll be disappointed because, well, they won’t be there.

If $5 footlongs are your kind of thing, you’re in luck. We’re saying adios to the former sandwich joint, but let’s give a warm welcome to one of America’s favorite lunchtime locales, Subway—West Coast Sandwich Company’s replacement. I usually tend to root for the underdog, but I never once ate at West Coast because it was too expensive. Spending $7 or $8 on a couple of hollowed—out pieces of bread just isn’t worth it. I’m not much of a Subway lover either, but I commend San Diego State’s Dining Services for offering a cheaper, healthier meal option that gives us penny-pinching college kids something to bite into, without feeling as if we’ve been cheated out of our money. It’s easy to skip out on those leafy greens to save some green. Those $5 footlongs just can’t be beat.

As for lovely Lady Starbucks, she will be move to the Aztec Student Union and feature a larger seating area. According to Aztec Shops director of Business Development and Contract Housing R.D. Williams, the location in East Commons will not be replaced by anything—it will serve as extra seating, just as it did two and a half years ago before that Starbucks ever opened.

Although last semester I would have been far less than pleased with the expanded ASU Starbucks, I now feel hypocritical taking on the same perspective that I once criticized about Starbucks lovers. I’m writing this article in a Starbucks while drinking tea—I’ve sworn off caffeine for the spring—and, I have to admit, it’s not so bad.

Whether you’re a drinker or not, Starbucks is a nice place to study or meet people. I’d love to see a family-owned coffee shop move in, but Starbucks seems to be the right fit for SDSU: A spacious, easygoing atmosphere for a friendly, easygoing student body.

It’s time to say your goodbyes, Aztecs. And some hellos, too.

Applications available starting tomorrow, Friday, January 24th in the Associated Students Office, 3rd Floor of the Aztec Student Union.

DEADLINE to submit application is Thursday, Feb. 13th at 4:00 pm.

To learn more about the A.S. General Elections, checkout as.sdsu.edu/govt/elections To learn more about A.S., checkout as.sdsu.edu

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A.S. General Elections are March 17th - 20th on the SDSU WebPortal

Hello and goodbye to our campus spots

So many opportunities for YOU to be a Candidate in the Associated Students

9DAYS THE FIRST

and we’re just getting started...

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22

MONDAY, JANUARY 27

Union Welcome Home Address

Get S’more Music

Nooner Concert

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28

9:00am – 11:00am Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard 12:00pm – 1:00pm Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard

Aztec Mania

6:00pm – 9:00pm, Union Theatre

12:00pm – 2:00pm Union Walkway

Aztec Nights: UP All Night

Live @ the Union: Poetry Slam

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29

Live @ the Union: The Iota Eta Pi Comedy Show

Nooner Concert

Basketball Viewing Party*

AZTEC STUDENT UNION

7:00pm – 9:00pm Templo Mayor

9:00pm – 1:00am Montezuma Hall

7:00pm – 9:00pm Union Theatre

7:00pm – 9:00pm Union Theatre

9:00pm – 1:00am Scripps Lawn

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24

Live @ the Union: A Cappella

DIY: Make it Sustainable with GreenFest

AZTEC STUDENT UNION

GRAND DEDICATION WEEK March 3-8, 2014

12:00pm – 1:00pm Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard

GreenFest Presents: No Impact Man

Aztec Nights: Winter Wonderland

SAVE THE DATE:

6:00pm – 8:00pm Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard

12:00pm – 1:00pm Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard

12:00pm – 2:00pm Templo Mayor

Dance Series @ the Union: Country Line Dancing

Aztec Nights: Movie Night in Chocolate Paradise

6:00pm – 8:00pm Templo Mayor

10:00pm – 2:00am Montezuma Hall

Aztec Nights: The Aztec Hunger Games 9:00pm – 1:00am Montezuma Hall

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25

Basketball Viewing Party*

8:00pm – 10:00pm, Union Theatre

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31

Aztec Nights: Welcome Back Madness

DIY: Make it Sustainable with GreenFest

MONDAY, JANUARY 27

Aztec Nights: Montezuma Masquerade

10:00pm – 2:00am Montezuma Hall

12:00pm – 2:00pm Templo Mayor

Red & Black Brunch

10:00pm – 2:00am Montezuma Hall

10:00am – 12:00pm Lee and Frank Goldberg Courtyard

MULTI-DAY EVENTS

Chalk It Out

Meet the Board

Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre Walkway

Union Walkway

JANUARY 22-24 9:00am – 10:00am

Fitness Classes

JANUARY 22-31 11:00am – 6:30pm ARC Express

Get UP and Play

Themed Bowling Nights

InstaUnion Challenge

Templo Mayor

Aztec Lanes

@aztecstudentunion

JANUARY 22-31 3:00pm – 5:00pm

EVENT SPONSORS

JANUARY 22-31 11:00am – 2:00pm

JANUARY 22-31 9:00pm – Midnight

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SDSU Red ID Required • +1 Guest (18 & over) • Dates, times and locations are subject to change. *Pending broadcast scheduling. • All events held in Aztec Student Union unless otherwise specified.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

9

#SEMESTERRESOLUTIONS

Do resolutions help or hurt?

STAFF COLUMNIST

The tradition of making New Year’s resolutions is nothing new. In fact, it dates back thousands of years to the Babylonian era. The Romans made resolutions to Janus, the god of new beginnings, promising to improve their actions in the coming year. If they failed, they blamed it on the will of Janus and were allowed to continue acting as they pleased until it came time to make resolutions again.

This situation sounds all too familiar. At the start of each year it’s traditional for people around the world to make New Year’s resolutions, committing themselves to forge changes in their lives. Unfortunately, not long after these resolutions are made they are also forgotten.

The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity for people to evaluate their lives and put their priorities in check.

With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to lose sight of dreams and goals that we once had in mind. As one year comes to a close, people can evaluate the things they succeeded with in the previous year and the areas they still need to improve on. While the new year is certainly not the only time of the year to self-reflect, it’s certainly a great place to start.

Deciding to make a change can be simple and lighthearted or it can be difficult and drastic. One of the perks of choosing to make this change on New Year’s, however, is that you get to start the process of change along with everyone else. A new year brings an extra dose of motivation. Numerous people are working toward new goals, making it easy to find a buddy or even just a bit more self-restraint against old habits.

As I mentioned before, changes can be big or small. The most common resolutions associated with New Year’s are of course losing weight, saving more money, quitting smoking and volunteering more. There are a few others that top the list, but that doesn’t

mean that one of these resolutions has to be yours. And it doesn’t mean you have to commit to a drastic change. The whole point of making a New Year’s resolution is to improve yourself and the life you live.

A more positive way to look at New Year’s resolutions may be choosing goals that are obtainable or goals that are not centered specifically on you. The majority of people who make New Year’s resolutions fail because their goals are unrealistic.

Instead of saying, “I’m going to get in shape this year,” you might say, “I’m going to lose 5 pounds.” Setting a definitive end point makes the goal easier to obtain because you can track how close or far you are to reaching it. If a goal has no measurable outcome, you can’t be sure how successful you’ve been.

Other resolutions that are becoming more popular are focused on others. For example, some people may say, “I want to spend time with the whole family at least twice a week” or “I’m going to keep in touch with old friends once a month.”

These goals still require a personal commitment to make them happen, but they benefit numerous people and the burden of success or failure isn’t placed solely on you. Even if you’re only able to get the whole family together once a week, this is a great step in the right direction and shouldn’t be considered a failure.

Failure is only a stepping-stone to success. Our culture has such a huge fear of failure, and in some instances it’s the only thing holding us back from success.

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, only 8 percent of people who make them are actually successful. However, making any change in a positive direction, even a small one, is better than making no change at all. People should be giving themselves credit for the small improvements and stop beating themselves up so much about not reaching their exact goals. When it comes to succeeding with New Year’s resolutions, there’s nothing stopping any individual from being a part of that 8 percent. Winning the lottery is luck of the draw; achieving your New Year’s resolution is simply personal willpower and yours for the taking.

MADISON HOPKINS OPINION EDITOR

Happy New Year, Aztecs. I hope you all had wonderful, relaxing winter breaks and have come back to San Diego State’s beautiful campus ready to thrive academically and personally. Many of you likely made New Year’s resolutions in an attempt to somehow improve your current state of living. And while I applaud those of you trying to challenge yourselves in some way, I’m not one of you. This year, I didn’t resolve to do anything.

Every year, Dec. 31 comes around and everyone lives it up as if it’s the last day of freedom before the imprisonment that is the dedication to unrealistic goals and inevitable failure. And that’s exactly what it is—confinement. It’s stress and self-imposed pressure and frankly, it’s unnecessary. New Year’s resolutions are nothing more than socially acceptable excuses to postpone making productive life changes until one random day of the year, as opposed to actively bettering yourself year-round. It’s the ultimate form of procrastination, and like most things that we choose to procrastinate on, we generally don’t do as good of a job as we would have liked.

According to a study done by the University of Scranton, 8 percent of people who make New Year’s resolutions actually achieve them. Psychology Today reported in 2011 that approximately 25 percent of people give up in the first week, and another 40 percent quit in the first month. So after, all the pressure and determination about this year being different, for most people it never truly is. According to Psychology Today, a failure to meet one’s New Year’s resolutions can lead to increased selfdoubt and depression. That’s not even considering the potential detrimental effects of falling off the New Year’s

bandwagon.

Take, for example, a chain smoker.

Let’s say this hypothetical person has been a regular smoker for years and is using the new year as an opportunity to finally do what he knows is right for his body. He gives it up for a few weeks, only to decide his stress is too much and he needs that one cigarette. Next thing you know, his self-esteem drops as a result of his disappointment in himself, and he turns to the same old activities he once did to make himself feel better— smoking. And just like that, what was once a positive goal to prove that change can happen is morphed into another personal letdown to beat himself up over.

That same cycle is common for any harmful behavior. Those who vow to cut out unhealthy habits that they once used as coping mechanisms are walking a thin line between potential success and spiraling even more out of control than they once were.

The idea of putting so much pressure on one day to change one’s life creates an equal and opposite feeling of failure when it doesn’t work out. Waiting around for the date to change to take control of your life is an easy way to escape responsibility for what you could be doing year-round, while also likely to result in added stress when unrealistic ambitions dissolve.

So for all of you Aztecs who made New Year’s resolutions this year, try not to take them so seriously. If you have already failed, try again with the idea to constantly do better, despite the failures.

And for those of you still going strong, congratulations, but relax a bit. The only one putting pressure on you is yourself, and positive change doesn’t have to come at the expense of your sanity. As for me, I’ll continue to ignore the allure of a new year and a new me, and just focus on gradually working on the same old me I’ve always been.

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your head looks funny when you read like this.

KELLY GARDNER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

11

#AZTECSTUDENTUNION

W elc om e

ba ck stu de nt s!

Ro JE ofto PH NNA p ga OT M rde OG AC n o RA KE f th PH Y, S e n ER EN ew IO stu R ST dent AF un ion F .

Campus hub opens

MORGAN RUBIN

SENIOR STAFF COLUMNIST Welcome back, Aztecs! With the start of each new semester comes new classes, teachers, expensive books purchases and assignments to procrastinate on. However, this semester is special because it will bring a long-anticipated new addition to the San Diego State community. I’m referring to the brand new, state-of-the-art, 206,000-square-foot Aztec Student Union.

The project has been in the works since 2010, and its completion date has been pushed back multiple times.

The final product is well worth the wait. While the architecture of the new building heavily resembles that of the other mission-styled buildings on campus, the ASU’s contents are unlike any building SDSU has had in its history. The student union, which meets every student need imaginable, is truly made for the students.

Whether you’re a commuter student in need of a place to get work done, or an on-the-go student looking for a quick workout, the ASU has everything.

Go green or go home One of the things that makes the student union extra special is the fact that it’s the most eco-friendly building on campus and in the entire California State University system. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design will officially verify this upon the builkding’s completion.

LEED is a system that gives standards for the “greenness” of a building and its construction process. When the ASU is finished, it will hopefully receive the LEED Platinum, the highest level of certification, to go along with SDSU’s numerous honors.

The structure’s sustainability is achieved in a multitude of ways, including a significant decrease in energy usage. When you traverse the various rooms of the student union, you’ll notice the plentiful windows and skylights that cut the costs of the energy used by artificial lights. And rather than having air conditioning and heating units throughout the building, a large section of it will have a radiant floor system. This is essentially a concrete surface with cold or hot water running through tubing beneath it, cooling or heating the building more efficiently.

The student union isn’t only sustainable underground.The roof, although closed to the public, hosts an area of gorgeous greenery that’s designed to reduce the overall heat of the typical dry, overheated surfaces. The roof is also home to dozens of solar panels that help capture the sun’s energ.

Taking care of business One of the primary functions of this new student union is to organize the studentrun clubs and organizations. The Division of Student Affairs and all its resources CONTINUED ON P14

12 SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

thursday, January 23, 2014

#SEMESTERRESOLUTIONS

Turn that resolution into a reality How to apply for graduation:

Madison hopkins opinion EDITOR

So now what? You’ve made the resolutions, mentally dedicated yourself to change and decided this is the semester you will make things happen.

Maybe it’s getting more involved on campus; finding that perfect internship; or finally stepping up to the podium, grabbing your diploma and saying goodbye to your fellow Aztecs and looking for the new adventures. Here, at The Aztec, we want to support you in all your endeavors, so here are a few helpful tips on how to get to where you want to be.

Important Dates Jan. 31: Last day for faculty to drop students from classes Feb. 4: Deadline to apply for graduation Feb. 4: Last day to add/drop a class or change grading type

Step 1: Are you a senior?

If you answered “yes” to this, you’re already on the right path. San Diego State students need at least 120 credits to graduate as well as fulfilling all major and general education requirements. If you will be finishing those requirements this semester, you are eligible for graduation.

Step 2: Apply for graduation After you log on to your WebPortal, there will be a tab on the left-hand side marked “Apply to Graduate.” Click this.

Then follow the step-by-step instructions and please, make sure your name is spelled correctly. Students graduating in either May or August will be eligible to walk in the spring commencement ceremony.

This may seem like the simplest step, but it may also be the most important. Next time senioritis kicks in and the beach or happy hour seem much more appealing than class, remember the finish line. Remember your friends and family who can’t wait to watch you walk across the stage and get your diploma. Think of your mother’s devastated face if you never make that dream come true.

Basketball.

Concerts.

Football.

Theater.

Humor.

Print.

Politics.

Fashion.

Web. Movies.

Mobile.

Music.

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Alignment with current California licensure requirements Professionally active faculty who teach from personal experience A curriculum that integrates spirituality and values A blend of the theoretical and practical elements of psychology For more information, visit apu.edu/mft/.

Your student account must be completely paid off before your graduation application is accepted. This includes tuition, library fees and a $55 nonrefundable filing fee for your application.

Step 4: Pass your classes

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We Know SDSU.

14947

SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

thursday, January 23, 2014

How to go Greek:

How to get more school spirit: Step 3: Go to the game!

Step 1: Check out the sports SDSU has plenty of amazing athletic teams to support.

Specifically, men’s and women’s basketball games, which are always hot events to attend. Tickets for both teams games are available at the Viejas Arena box office.

Step 2: Get your tickets Getting tickets for the men’s basketball games is a competitive process. Students can receive free tickets with their RedIDs, but only as long as they last—and that’s not long. Some students get in line hours before the office opens. The next time tickets will be released for the men’s games is at 10 a.m. on Jan. 27 for the Colorado State University game. My advice: Bring something to entertain yourself— it’ll be a while.

13

Whether you’re the type to sit in the back and proudly look onto your fellow Aztecs, or if you’re in the the first row of the student section screaming your support and waiting for your moment to crowd surf over the stands, it’s your presence that really matters as a part of your school community. Also, check out the SDSU Bookstore to grab some red and black swag for the game.

Step 4: Be a good sport You’re there to support your school, not tear down the opponent. Let’s remember, it’s just a game and although we love to see our Aztecs win, we shouldn’t forget to behave like the classy and respectful adults we want to portray ourselves as.

Step 1: Consider your options If joining a fraternity or sorority has been a part of your college dream since you were a kid, then you came to the right university. SDSU has several chapters to choose from. To get things started, head to the “Fraternity and Sorority Life” section of the Student Life and Leadership website.

Step 2: Make sure you’re eligible To take part in the recruitment process, potential new members must be currently enrolled in classes at SDSU and may not be on academic or disciplinary probation.

Step 3: Sign up for recruitment Potential new members must register for recruitment online and attend one of two information sessions to be considered eligible for spring recruitment. These sessions will be held from 5-6 p.m. on Jan. 27 and from 1-2 p.m. on Jan. 28 at the Aztec Student Union.

Step 4: Keep an open mind The recruitment process is for you to find the best fit. Go into the process open to finding out who you get along with and if Greek life is even a path you want to go down. Panhellenic sororities and Interfraternity Council fraternities will both give out bids to new members on Feb.10.

How to get an internship: Step 1: Breathe Applying for internships can feel like the first fateful step of your career and that any mistake will lead to a lifetime of dissatisfaction, unemployment and eventual ruin.

Yes, internships are important, but you have lots of time and opportunities to find the right path for yourself.

Step 3: Meet with an internship coordinator Most departments at SDSU have a specific person whose job it is to help you find internships. He or she is an expert in everything from resumes and cover letters to what to wear to an interview and how to act. Use your resources—they’re there to help you.

Step 2: Set realistic expectations

Step 4: Apply, apply, apply!

Some internships are looking for students interested in getting some parttime experience. Some require three past internships, work samples and a full-time commitment. It’s all about deciding what is best for you and what you are qualified for, then go from there.

Obviously, the more places you apply the more likely you are to hear something back. It never hurts to put yourself out there, even if all you receive in return is a rejection letter or an offer to try again next year.

Keep trying; eventually your time will come.

14 SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

CONTINUED FROM P11

and programs will be headquartered there. This means more than 300 student organizations, the Center for Leadership and Community Service and the Center for Intercultural Relations will be housed in the student union. The Associated Students offices have also been moved here, so make sure to stop by and say hello to your elected officials. While old services such as the University Information Center and the lost and found will be relocated to the student union, some new amenities include a lactation room, a commuter student resource area and foot washing stations in the ground floor bathrooms, among many other hidden treasures.

It sounds like a lot, but once you visit you’ll realize there’s more than enough room for everyone. The ASU holds countless meeting and board rooms, both indoor and outdoor, for student organizations to use. If you’re really feeling classy, you can rent out the grand banquet hall. One look inside Montezuma Hall and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a dream.

Right across from Montezuma Hall is the 300-seat theater, which can also be used by student organizations, so look out for announcements for film showings in the near future.

All the ammenities ...

Don’t worry, Aztecs. Where there’s work, there’s play. We now have places on campus where we can hang out with friends that’s aren’t the 24/7 Study Area.

The new 12-lane bowling alley, Aztec Lanes, in the Aztec Student Union will feature tennis and pool tables. JENNA MACKEY, SENIOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

For starters, there’s Aztec Lanes. We no longer have to make the journey to Kearny Mesa Bowl when we feel the urge to play a game or two. The student union is now home to our very own 12-lane bowling and gaming center, which includes a two table tennis tables, five pool tables, a gaming lounge and eight big-screen TVs. As a part of Welcome Back Week, check out Aztec Lanes during Aztec Pride Basket Bowl, Neon Bowling, ‘90s Bowling, ‘80s Bowling, Country Bowl, and Vegas Bowling. You’ll experience games, bumping music and no doubt those notoriously ugly, yet somehow hip bowling shoes.

Helpful hint: You might want to get there early. Those bowling shoes are bound to get funky in a hurry.

Aztec Lanes will be available at no cost to Aztec Recreation Center members, except for the $1 shoe rental.

Right next door to Aztec Lanes, you’ll find Oggi’s Pizza Express. Not only do we get yet another fine pizza establishment on campus, but Oggi’s also offers us awardwinning microbrewed beer. Yes, that’s

right, beer! Before you get too excited, note there will be security around the student union at all times. Since it’s a sportscentered place, we’ll get to cheer on our basketball teams right from campus. And if they lose (knock on wood), we can all grieve together.

As far as other dining options go, they’re fairly recognizable. There will be another Aztec Market, which is always nice. The new feature to this one is the addition of Shake Smart, the popular, nutritious shake bar that currently stands in front of the ARC. Then there’s The Habit Burger Grill, and Chipotle, which is being moved from its current location by the trolley station.

Finally, no student union is complete without a Starbucks, and this one is set to be the largest on campus.

Want to work off all that food, but don’t want to go to the always-crowded ARC? The ARC Express, located on the southern part of the third floor, will allow students to get the same ARC experience in a more convenient area of school. But just because it’s significantly smaller than the original

doesn’t mean the quality of service and available machines aren’t as good. Actually, the ARC Express is filled with brand new cardio machines and weights. It’s newest toy is the Synrgy 360 XL, a top-of-the-line multipurpose workout station designed to help everyone get and stay in the best shape possible. A balcony with a great view of College Avenue can be accessed from the ARC Express. However, there are no showers or overnight lockers available.

In a nutshell Aztecs pride themselves with being innovative, diverse and accessible to students’ needs. This is definitely shown in our new facility. We have managed to build not only a new building for us to walk through and by every day, but have also effectively built a stronger, more open Aztec community.

Be warned: Our new student facility is much bigger than it looks on the outside, so take advantage of the many digital interactive directories and try not to get lost.

SEMESTER RESOLUTIONS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

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16 BACKPAGE

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2014

#LEFTIES

Give lovin’ to the lefties KELLY HILLOCK

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

“Whoa. You’re left-handed?”

The disembodied voice that has asked me that very question during the last 15 years has taken shape in every form: the close friend, realizing for the very first time which hand I sign receipts with; the lab partner, as I copy down our analysis to turn in; and the kid I jam my elbow into while scribbling notes in class.

Yes, I’m a lefty.

If your next question is, “Wow, how do you write like that?” with your overt curiosity and big eyes, then I will resort to using the evil powers the devil bestowed on me when he decided to make me devil-handed.

Left-handed people have suffered discrimination for millions of years.

Throughout history, lefties have been associated with the devil, witchcraft, unintelligence and homosexuality. Lefties have been outcast, prosecuted and in more recent years, been forced to write with their right hand at a young age.

Today, the biggest obstacles facing lefties

are the inconveniences of everyday tasks and annoying questions, in addition to the products of living in a world designed for right-handed people.

There’s a different kind of dismay for lefties to experience as college students, such as walking into a lecture hall and being forced to take a seat with a little desk on your right side, spending the entire lecture twisting yourself into a human pretzel as you try to write with your left. The same applies when bringing a laptop to class. Something about the right alignment is disconcerting for my right-lateral brain.

We may be a minority, but all the important people are left-handed: Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, President Barack Obama, Kurt Cobain, Jimi Hendrix, Judy Garland, Albert Einstein, Sarah Jessica Parker, Benjamin Franklin and Oprah Winfrey. I mean, whatever Oprah does is right, so I’m obviously on the right team.

Some sources even list Joan of Arc as a lefty, which I guess explains the burning at the stake thing.

Being a lefty in a right-handed world is a lot like being a woman in a man’s

words

73 Mass transit option

world, with the exception of a catchy song. However, there are some perks.

We get our first choice of seats at the dinner table; otherwise, our right-handed friends would have an elbow digging into their food. People think we’re interesting, or perhaps it’s just a bizarre fascination.

It’s a small miracle, when we manage to snag a left aisle, a left-handed desk in class. Studies suggest lefties have higher IQs than right-handed people and have a greater chance of being a genius.

Similarly, studies show lefties are more artistic. We even have our own holiday.

So here’s to the cramped muscles, the jamming elbows, the hand smudges, the desk-and-chair combo fiasco and the constant misunderstanding resulting from living in a right-biased world.

Here’s to the lefties, the masters of contortion, the backward-achieving champions, the gauche. For the rest of you, we ask you to leave the lefty desks open in class and stop asking us if we’re left-handed. We’re not faking the bad penmanship for your amusement, and between you and me, those devil powers are real.

numbers

DOWN

ACROSS

1 Bailiff’s repeated cry 5 Captain’s order to stop 10 Amo, __, amat 14 Prefix with scope or meter 15 Like many pretzels 16 Money owed 17 Gradually and steadily 19 Nebraska tribe 20 Fellow members 22 “Ben-__” 23 2000s White House nickname 26 Like a private tutoring session 28 CIO partner 29 Not used 32 Senior-to-junior address 33 Betty of cartoons 35 Lantern fuel 39 Back up talk with action

42 Make like new 43 Ventilates, with “out” 46 “Ivanhoe” author Sir Walter 49 The Tar Heels of the NCAA 51 Forget-me-__ 52 Considering everything 56 Stows away 58 Naughty 59 Condition of being forgotten 62 Hosp. area for urgent care 64 In person 68 Got to one’s feet 69 Not quite right 70 Word after something or anything 71 Mex. miss 72 Eccentric

1 Chances to get pics 2 Up to now 3 Before, in odes 4 Go past fast 5 “__ sow, so shall ...”

6 Expansive 7 Even if, briefly 8 Violinist Isaac 9 Melville work subtitled “A Peep at Polynesian Life” 10 “Much __ About Nothing” 11 Way of doing things 12 Teem (with) 13 Audio system 18 Dietary fiber 21 Finnish mobile phone giant 23 Blot gently 24 ET transporter 25 Squander, as a wad of cash 27 Nabisco wafer brand 30 Antlered grazers 31 “W” on a light bulb 34 First installment of a miniseries 36 Old reciprocal electrical unit 37 Lima’s land 38 Wilson of “Marley & Me” 40 “... __ man put asunder” 41 Compassionate 44 __ v. Wade 45 Ave. crossers 46 Cavalry blades 47 Loud uproar 48 Most senior 50 When doubled, tot’s train 53 BBC sitcom, to fans 54 Andes pack animal 55 Permitted by law 57 Get by reasoning 60 Sleeveless garment 61 “The __-bitsy spider ...”

63 “The Crying Game” actor Stephen 65 Pie __ mode 66 CBS series with Miami and NY spin-offs 67 Wriggly swimmer

HOW TO PLAY: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box contains every digit 1 to 9.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL:

1/4

ALL SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.THEDAILYAZTEC.COM OR IN OUR NEXT ISSUE’S CLASSIFIEDS CROSSWORDS, SUDOKU, AND HOROSCOPES COURTESY OF TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC., ©2014.

disclaimer

The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Aztec.

Express your concerns by emailing letters@thedailyaztec.com

arc.sdsu.edu

619-594-0194

thefuture

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (1/23/14) - Follow your higher purpose this year. Meditate and listen for it. Financial success rises as you tune your career to what you love and are good at. Fun with friends and family feeds your spirit. Experiment with fitness and diet. Balance freedom and responsibility, inspiring the kids. The 6/10 eclipse brings a new romantic phase. Savor love.

HOW IT WORKS: 10 is good, 1 is bad.

ARIES (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 7 - Communication unlocks a door to team prosperity. Make a financial decision together. Exercise gets your blood pumping into your brain, for clear thinking. Imagine the project completed, and positive results.

Do the paperwork.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is an 8 - Build partnership today and tomorrow.

Use words more than action. You’re gaining status. Listen to feedback. Accept encouragement. An efficient plan grows your game faster. Logic meets desire. It’s possible to express both. Declare your love.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 7 - Refocus on work today and tomorrow.

You can borrow what you need. Have faith in your vision, and don’t worry about details yet. Get in action, and things line up. Fix something before it breaks.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 7 - Accept a fun challenge if it pays well.

Don’t jump to hasty conclusions. Increase efficiency by reviewing the plan. Creativity and passion come easily today and tomorrow. Get a brilliant scholar to help you see all the angles.

LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is an 8 - Plan a home project with your partner, then jump into action today and tomorrow.

Encourage imagination. Consider ways to re-purpose, or give things away and free up space. The gentle approach works best.

Convey your deepest feelings.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is an 8 - Others ask your advice. You can learn what you need today and tomorrow. Read up on new developments. Get a brilliant idea in writing. Meditate before taking action. Quick thinking is required and available.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is an 8 - Learn from a risk-taker. Push to advance. Today and tomorrow prove good for business, as you use that silver tongue. There’s money coming, but also going. Send invoices. Accept an intellectual challenge, and give it your full attention.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is an 8 - You’re extra hot today and tomorrow.

Stick to the budget. It’s easy to push forward now. Listen carefully, and follow a hunch. Use your superpowers to create fun and magic for your close people.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) Today is an 8 - Retreat from the world today and tomorrow. Connect with people remotely. Help make a decision. Copy the itinerary. Ask for more, please. Something new arrives in the mail. Watch out for holes in your pockets.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 9 - Let yourself get drawn outside your safety zone. It could get intense. Check public opinion today and tomorrow. Consult an expert. Confess to the family. Follow an enthusiastic suggestion. Celebrate your accomplishments. Accept congratulations.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - You’ll be tested for the next couple of days. Focus on the job, and respect authority. It comes back to you. Share your news. Don’t spend impulsively. Request a favor from someone who owes you.

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is an 8 - Coach your team to victory. Take the bus and save today and tomorrow. Get intensely involved in your research. Shift a household arrangement. It’s too early to start a project. Wait for your partner.