02-14-2013

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2013

VOLUME 99, ISSUE 71

the Valentine's Day the love guru presents:

Issue

2 | sports

SDSU looks forward to round two

men’s basketball Logan Burns Staff Writer

Backcourt Aztecs: The Aztecs have followed the lead play of senior Chase Tapley and junior Jamaal Franklin all season long. It seems the Aztecs either win or lose depending on how well the duo does. After a home win against the New Mexico Lobos got the Aztecs back into the top 25 rankings, SDSU hit a bump in the road at Air Force. SDSU rebounded with a close win against Boise State, which came off a last second 3-point shot by Tapley. Both players lead the team in scoring,

and Franklin leads in rebounds. If the Aztecs want to make a run for the Mountain West Championship, it seems both Tapley and Franklin will have to carry them there. The Aztecs lost in Las Vegas last season 65-63.

Runnin’ Rebels: The Rebels have a productive guard in Katin Reinhardt, who averages 9.8 points and 2.7 assists per game as a point guard. As a freshman, Reinhardt has stepped into his position impeccably. Senior guard Anthony Marshall is the emotional leader of this team and was a large reason why the Rebels won at Viejas Arena last month. The two were an integral part of UNLV’s big win

against No. 15 New Mexico.

Edge: Aztecs

Frontcourt Aztecs: Senior forward DeShawn Stephens and freshman forward Skylar Spencer have been defensively solid for the Aztecs.

The SDSU big men haven’t carried as much of the offensive bulk as the guards this season, but they’ve accumulated a decent amount of offensive rebounds to give their team numerous second-chance opportunities. Spencer averages 1.5 blocked shots per game. As long as these Aztecs continue their high level of play, they have a chance in

No Goliath in college basketball column Matthew Bain Staff Writer

Men’s college basketball is a sport traditionally dominated by one or two teams per season. Last year, it was the University of Kentucky. It was Saint Joseph’s University in 2004. It was the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 1990 and the University of California, Los Angeles in the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Who would you say it is this year?

Since Indiana University’s overtime loss to Butler University on Dec. 15, The Associated Press No. 1 men’s college basketball teams have gone 106—not very No. 1-like.

The No. 1 ranked team lost in five consecutive weeks. Coincidence? I think not.

As of now, Week 15 in the season, there are no teams with fewer than two losses in the AP Top 25.

With only a few weeks left until March Madness, college basketball is without an apparent king. This is rare for fans to see, and many of them are embracing it, claiming this NCAA Tournament will top them all.

However, there are some who look upon the lack of dominance in college basketball differently. In a Fox Sports article, columnist Jason Whitlock cites many reasons to be upset with this college basketball season. Whitlock claims the king-less season that others view with “optimism” is actually “a sign of American basketball’s ruination.”

Whitlock said the summer basketball leagues where high school athletes showcase their talents bear

selfish, show-off attitudes to young players. Consequently, in college they play more for themselves than for the consistent greatness of the team. He goes on to say modern college basketball bred a game where only the NCAA Tournament matters—fewer people care about a regular season conference championship than in the days of John Wooden. For instance, he attributes Indiana’s last loss to Illinois on Feb. 7 to players waiting to “buckle down when the ring is on the line.”

Whitlock makes some fair points.

I agree there are selfish players in the league. Unfortunately, that will always be the case as long as athletes earn celebrity status and the NBA only seek the most dominant players. However, I disagree with the bulk of Whitlock’s argument.

Volume 99, issue 71 | Thursday , february 14, 2013 every game.

Runnin’ Rebels: Freshman forward Anthony Bennett is the spark plug for the Rebels’ offense. He had 17 points and 12 rebounds in the Rebels’ victory against New Mexico. He leads the team in scoring with 18.3 points per game and is the main focal point of the team’s offense. He does it all. Another big man, Khem Birch, averages 7.7 points per game, and plays forward as well as anyone in the Mountain West. The Aztecs struggled with UNLV’s size in their last meeting.

on the right track and could salvage a Mountain West Championship with a couple of big wins down the road. He looks to lead the Aztecs to yet another NCAA Tournament berth. Fisher’s intensity will really shine through his players on the court during the next few conference games.

Runnin Rebels: Head coach Dave Rice won the national championship as a player with UNLV in 1990.

He led his team to three straight NCAA tournaments and four out of the past six years. He coaches with high-level intensity.

Edge: Rebels

Coaching

Edge: Aztecs

Aztecs: Head coach Steve Fisher and the Aztecs have been somewhat inconsistent this season, but are still

Prediction

Balance in college basketball doesn’t mean top-tier schools aren’t reaching their full potential; it means more schools are reaching their full potential. It signals how teams such as Kentucky and the University of North Carolina don’t have all of the talent this year.

Instead, talent is spread across the country to teams such as the University of Wisconsin, Colorado State University, Indiana State University and many more schools that now have a real chance to succeed in March.

Teams have to bring their A-game every day or they’ll lose (just ask the University of Kansas or University of Florida). In a season with no Goliath, a whole lot of Davids have a hand in the fight for the championship. More schools are involved, more communities are involved and more fans are involved.

To Whitlock’s point that Indiana eased off the throttle in its loss to Il-

linois: Rivalry is more elevated in college basketball than in any other sport.

San Diego State would never relax in a game against UNLV to save up energy for the NCAA Tournament.

Student-athletes absolutely hate to see their conference foes beat them, to hear the opposing fans scream their heads off, to lose their pride—this season or any other season.

As junior guard Jamaal Franklin said after the Boise State game, “You can’t take college basketball lightly …

Everybody’s ready to play and playing on all cylinders.”

So, be happy college basketball has a more level playing field. Be happy you have no clue who the number one team will be next week. Be happy we are in for potentially the wildest March Madness in years. Enjoy this awesome season — who knows when there will be another season like this one?

Aztecs 74, Rebels 72

news | 3

thursday, february 14, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 71

CSU goes to church Students dress to impress

state Ana Ceballos

Assistant News Editor

Black high school students attending certain Californian churches on Sundays can expect a different sermon: encouragement to attend California State universities.

CSU officials have been seeking new, prospective black students through the CSU African American Initiative, which targets middle and high school students in hopes of increasing college enrollment rates among the

The CSU reached out to 11 churches and after seven years, more than 100 churches have been approached.

African-American community.

This initiative, started in 2006 during Chancellor Emeritus Charles B. Reed’s term. The CSU reached out to 11 churches and after seven years, more than 100 churches have been approached.

Chancellor Timothy P. White will attend his first Super Sunday, on Feb. 24 at the West Angeles Church of God in Christ, followed by an appearance on March 10 at the Glad Tidings Church of God in Christ in Hayward.

Even though this outreach pro-

campus

gram has no denominational restrictions, it’s taking place overwhelmingly at predominantly black churches.

The events held to promote the initiative reach more than 100,000 churchgoers. Since Reed began as chancellor in 1998, there has been a 30 percent increase in African-Americans earning degrees.

“Education is the key to a better future for California,” White said in a press release. “The CSU’s commitment is stronger than ever to motivate and encourage African-American students to prepare for college and earn a university degree.”

However, CSU Media Relations Specialist Erik Fallis said there is not a specific goal to progress from the 5 percent that makes up the African-American population in the CSU system.

“We want to give California equal representation,” Fallis said.

“We want to be a university that doesn’t wait for their students to come and ask for help—we want to come to them.”

Initiative efforts show a 6 percent increase in the amount of applications received by AfricanAmerican students.

The CSU African American Initiative is one of many initiatives created by CSU officials to increase outreach to misrepresented communities including Latinos, Native Americans, AsianAmericans and veterans.

Students wear professional attire to make good impressions on potential employers. The SDSU Leadership Development Panel and Fashion Show brought out employers and students to the event.

Jessica Marin Staff Writer

Last Tuesday, students dressed in business attire were seen walking around and chatting with members of on-campus student organizations as well as potential employers at San Diego State’s first-ever Leadership Development Panel and Fashion Show.

SDSU Career Services associate director Sandra Williams planned the event.

“The goal is to help students understand leadership through the employer’s perspective,” Williams said.

Students were able to talk to representatives from Associated

Students, Student Life and Leadership, Veterans Center and College Councils for the first half of the event. A.S. Vice President of University Affairs Matt Cecil stressed the benefits of gaining leadership opportunities early on in your college career.

“The reason A.S. is here today is to really explain to students that having a leadership opportunity in college is going to separate you from the rest when you’re applying for jobs,” Cecil said. “So we’re showing the opportunities available through A.S.” At the A.S. table, students learned about more than 22 different boards and committees and how to get involved in them.

monica linzmeier , assistant photo editor

The Student Life and Leadership table listed multiple student organizations on campus where students can get involved.

The Veteran Center had an informational table promoting the Joan and Art Barron Veterans Center on campus.

The second half of the event consisted of a panel of businessmen and women, as well as a fashion show. The fashion show was brief; students modeled business, casual and evening attire.

The blazers and suit pants the students paraded were courtesy of T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. continued on Leadership page 4

4 | news

Volume 99, issue 71 | Thursday , february 14, 2013 from Leadership page 3

Following the fashion show, the panel, which included SDSU alumni, discussed how to successfully communicate with potential employers.

The panel was facilitated by Jackie Robinson Family YMCA Executive Director Michael Brunker. Brunker began the panel discussion with a lighthearted joke by saying, “only elevator speeches, no dissertations” as a way to remind the panelists to keep their answers short because they were pressed for time.

Some of the panelists included representatives from San Diego Gas and Electricity, SDSU College of Education, Wildcat Discovery Technologies, SDSU Joan and Art Barron Veterans Center and the Pepsi Co. Inc. The panelists shared with the students the qualities that they look for in people when they’re hiring.

“Everyone says, ‘I’m a team player,’ I need concrete examples,” Marion said.

She emphasized having specific examples of being a team player ready before going into the interview.

“The last part was my favorite,” social work freshman Ugochi Apakama said.

“I enjoyed hearing from the panelists. I learned what to do during an interview; it’s the biggest thing I take away from this.”

Canadians lose their maple leaf copper penny Raquel Martin Staff Writer

In March, Canada’s Finance Minister Jim Flaherty announced the maple leaf copper penny would no longer be distributed in order to save the government money.

Flaherty said the Canadian penny cost the government more to make than it’s worth.

The Royal Canadian Mint, responsible for the production of Canada’s coinage, will save millions. According to The Economist, the additional 0.6 cents greater than face value used to make a penny will total to about $11 milion in profit yearly.

The last rolls of pennies were distributed on Feb. 4. The royal Canadian Mint produced a final batch of coins last spring, which were specially packaged and are being sold as collectables.

Shoppers who previously tossed the penny aside can now purchase a roll of 50 for $9.95. In honor of such a legacy, the pennies are available as a keepsake symbolizing a part of Canadian culture and history.

Canadian consumers and businesses must now adapt to a society without pennies, although retailers can still choose to accept the penny. As of now, cash transactions will be rounded to the nearest 5 cents, but electronic transactions will still be billed to the cent.

The penny, which has been part of the Canadian currency since 1858, will enter a six-year phaseout. In the first years, this will cost Canada approximately $7.3 million.

Nominations request superb faculty David Hernandez Staff Writer

San Diego State communication professor Brian Spitzberg served as chair of the Faculty Honors and Awards Committee for three years.

With the committee, he would select faculty to receive the San Diego State Alumni Association Awards for Outstanding Faculty Contributions to the university, more commonly known as the Faculty Montys. Now he’s the recipient of the award he used to give other faculty.

Spitzberg has become a recipient of the award for the 2012-13 academic year.

“It’s magnificent as an experience,” Spitzberg said. “It is a judgment of peers to honor you relative to your peers. It really is a way of saying that what you’ve been doing

has value.”

Spitzberg’s recognition was the result of having an exceptional record of teaching and various publications. He has numerous mechanisms to measure learning, such as IMPACT, a computerized system currently used at several other colleges and universities. Scholastically, he is most known for his research on stalking and interpersonal communication skills.

Every spring, one faculty member from each college, including the Library and Information Access and the Imperial Valley Campus, is prized with the award. As the deadline to submit nominations for the 2013-14 academic year approaches, all members of the SDSU community are invited to nominate faculty.

Faculty members are recognized for their contributions made through

teaching scholarship, professional activity or other services and may be made on a university, community, state, national or international level, according to SDSU NewsCenter.

The recipients attend a breakfast and are invited on stage during the SDSU Convocation to receive their awards.

The Alumni Association also funds a reward of $500, which is provided by non-state funds and alumni operation.

Spitzberg, having been part of the Faculty Honors and Awards Committee prior to receiving his award, understands the importance of nominating faculty.

“Just as we honor valedictorians or salutatorians for exceptional achievement, it’s important to remember those who help students fulfill their accomplishments,” Spitz-

berg said.

As a faculty member, Spitzberg believes honors such as the Faculty Montys are also important because it’s a profession that includes hard work and either delayed or little gratification.

“I enjoyed being able to take my wife to the breakfast and let her experience it,” Spitzberg said. “She gets to see me toil and work long hours, so it’s nice for those you care about—but aren’t part of this fish bowl—to be able to see that the fish bowl cares.”

Nominations for the 2013-14 academic year can be made by filling out the form available on the Faculty Affairs website under “awards.” The completed form must be submitted to the appropriate Dean’s office by Feb. 18.

Love Campaign supports LGBTQ community Christina Koral Staff Writer

The Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Student Union and Student Life and Leadership teamed up to host the Love Campaign, promoting marriage equality because of Valentine’s Day. The event, which took place by the flagpole in front of Hepner Hall, gave students a chance to make Valentine’s Day cards for that special someone free of charge. The group wanted to highlight a message that “love is gender-blind.”

The LGBT community is trying to target the younger generations, because they tend to be more open-minded about samesex marriage.

Some students were drawn in by popular love songs played on loudspeakers and were encouraged to stay to make Valentine’s

Day cards. Students also had a chance to learn about different topics concerning same-sex marriage through guest speakers and a table of informative handouts.

Although LGBTSU is open to all students, the organization is trying to reach out to those within the LGBT community, who may not have known about the club before.

The LGBTSU president and business administration senior Michael Manacop said the event was meant to let members of the LGBT community know they are not alone at San Diego State.

“A lot of college students are broke, so we are providing a fun way for people to make Valentine’s Day cards while also reaching out to the rest of the LGBT community,” Manacop said.

The Love Campaign is part of increased efforts by LGBTSU and LGBTQ Advisory Board to host at

Members from the SDSU LGBTQ community spoke up about marriage equality at yesterday’s Love Campain.

least one event at SDSU’s campus each month promoting marriage equality and spreading awareness of their presence on campus.

The goal of LGBTSU is to provide a safe environment for stu-

dustin michelson , senior staff photographer

dents and community members of all sexual orientations, identities, genders, ethnicities, ages, faiths, belief systems and cultures.

Students wait hours for Greenfest tickets

will houston , staff writer

Students line up in the early hours of the morning to purchase Greenfest tickets. This year, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis will be performing at SDSU on March 21.

J. Hutton Marshall Managing Editor

Will Houston Staff Writer

Buzz around chart-topping musicians Macklemore & Ryan Lewis is here at San Diego State following a recent announcement that the duo would be headlining GreenFest 2013.

Approximately 4,600 tickets to their

performance at Open Air Theatre went on sale at 8 a.m. on Monday, but eagerly awaiting students lined up long before to purchase tickets.

“I never went to bed and got here at 4 a.m.,” Jamie Lowden, a student who claimed a spot at the front of the line said. “I’m from Seattle and I love Macklemore. I’m a die-hard fan.”

Associated Students Programs Coordinator Daphney Bitanga said when the ticket office closed Tuesday,

more than half the available tickets had been purchased. As of 5:30 p.m. yesterday, less than 600 tickets remained.

Last year’s GreenFest took place in F Lot and featured T-Pain as the main headliner. According to Bitanga, out of the 10,000 tickets available, more than half had been distributed. Bitanga expects this year’s GreenFest to sellout completely. She attributes the quick sales to the early headliner

announcement. “(The students) knew who (Macklemore) was and had the opportunity to decide if they wanted to wait in line early or get their tickets,” Bitanga said. “So, I think it’s just hard to say. We were able to secure a really great artist that the students seem really excited about, so I think that helps ticket sales as well.”

Valentine’s Day |

thursday, february 14, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 71

Solo on Valentine’s Shellie Stamps Staff Writer

I have never had a valentine. Yep, never. It’s not a bad thing, though.

I mean, what single girl doesn’t love hearing about the romantic plans her friends have with their significant others while she sits at home by herself watching stupid romantic films and eating Häagen-Dazs ice cream?

It used to sting really bad knowing I would be alone for yet another Valentine’s Day (as if Christmas and New Year’s weren’t bad enough). But I’ve come up with a solution for this troubling time that affects so many of us non-lovebirds.

... my Valentine’s Day would go like this: First, I’d cook myself breakfast—blueberry pancakes, scrambled eggs and bacon with a cup of coffee. Just what I wanted!

My solution goes something like this: Be happy. Tell yourself college is not the time to be in a relationship and that your friends are capitalism-driven idiots.

Once you’re done whining, try something more productive.

Be your own valentine. It’s a lot more fun than it sounds. No, you’re not pathetic for doing it.

As someone who doesn’t have too many valentine notches in her belt, trust me. It can help alleviate some of those Valentines Day blues.

I recommend planning a whole romantic day all for yourself.

Look at it this way: Nobody can love you until you learn to love yourself and nobody deserves your love more than you. So give

5

How to get a date Molly Peters

yourself a chance to love yourself, and give yourself the attention you deserve.

I’m a girl (if you hadn’t figured it out yet) so my Valentine’s Day would go like this: First, I’d cook myself breakfast—blueberry pancakes, scrambled eggs and bacon with a cup of coffee. Just what I wanted!

Then, I’d take myself to get a massage and maybe a mani-pedi.

Oh my God. Just what I wanted.

I wouldn’t have to be sneaky or hope my guy had been paying attention to my hints; I just did it for myself.

Then, I’d go buy myself a present, a little token of love to show my appreciation to myself for all the hard work I do in school and at work. Hey, it’s hard out here in the streets.

Finally, I’d take myself out to dinner. Yes, by myself. I know about now you’re probably thinking, “Damn, this girl’s life is depressing. She sounds lonely as hell.”

I swear it’s not that bad. I’d go to my favorite restaurant or find one I’ve never been to before and enjoy an amazing meal.

All the money you would have spent trying to make sure someone else had the perfect day would’ve just gotten you stuck with a homemade card and $2 chocolates. Instead, you spent it on you and gave yourself the best day ever.

If you’re ballin’ on a budget and can’t take yourself to dinner, try ordering a pizza. The Lakers are playing the Clippers Feb. 14.

Nothing says romance like good pizza and a basketball game. Oh, and bake yourself some cookies—you deserve it. Who needs a valentine?

If you’re still butt hurt about not being with someone, just remember that real love is out there 365 days a year.

Staff Writer

It’s that time of year again when couples blissfully get to show off their sappy love for one another while all my single ladies—holla!—stock up on ice cream and horror films for the oh-soanticipated Feb. 14. When you look back on your past Valentine’s Days, if all you can remember is chick flicks, a box of tissues and your bed, you probably need someone to tell you how to get a date before Valentine’s Day. Step 1: Go to the gym Going to the gym is the perfect way to get yourself ready for Valentine’s Day in two ways: Not only does pumping some iron get your body looking fit enough to wear that tight red dress you’ve been dying to put on, but San Diego State’s Aztec Recreation Center also doubles as a man market. Guys who work out at the gym on a daily basis are known for their Adonis-like abs, so sign up for a membership and take your pick.

Guys, two words—yoga pants.

bump into him and spill the drink. It’s vital to get this spill just right—if you spill too much on him, he’ll get annoyed, but not enough spillage and he may not feel obligated to buy you another. If this operation is successful, he should buy you a new chai and if the stars are aligned, maybe even walk you to class.

Guys, being a gentleman will go a long way—cough up the $4.65 and buy her a new drink.

Step 4: Go shopping Being a broke college student is something many Aztecs can relate to, but treating yourself to something new can be extremely beneficial. Getting ready for a party is frustrating because you may be bored of your closet, so skip your Friday classes and take an adventure to Fashion Valley.

You won’t regret eating Top Ramen for the next month because you’ll be the life of the party in those new 7 for All Mankind jeans.

Guys, buy a hat. Girls are into guys who wear hats.

Step 2: Go to class The first week of classes can be busy and stressful, so it’s easy to miss that cutie in Biology 101 at 8 a.m. The next time you roll out of bed at 7:50 a.m. wearing sweats and slippers, make sure there are no brooding, scruffy, tortured souls hiding in the back row.

Your perfect Valentine’s Day date may be closer than you think, so go to bed early, wake up confident and ask your crush if you can be his lab partner.

Guys, girls usually go to early morning classes wearing yoga pants.

Step 5: Ask him (or her) out What’s the worst that could happen after asking out your crush? Although we hear tons of horror stories where girls get their hearts broken, taking a chance could just as easily pay off.

Start by asking him out for coffee or a study date. A casual setting will allow the conversation to flow enough for both of you to test each other’s boundaries. But remember, guys are just as scared of rejection as girls, so give him time.

Guys, don’t take too much time asking out your crush.

Step 3: Spill your coffee If you know where your crush hangs out between classes, this little trick always leads to a good conversation.

Head to Peabody’s Organic Coffee 20 minutes before you plan to attack and make sure to buy a cold drink—this will be important later. Casually walk toward your crush with your iced chai in hand and, just as you cross paths,

You don’t have to spend another Valentine’s Day with Ben and Jerry. Everyone can find that special someone who makes you feel just as good as eating that entire pint of ice cream. With the right amount of confidence—and maybe that new outfit— finding a date for Valentine’s Day will be easier than ever. If all else fails, eHarmony is just a click away.

What do you want out of Valentine’s?

“I’d want to do Kate Upton.” anthropology sophomore connor liudzius

“Honestly, I’d much rather stay in and play videogames with my girl. At least it’s interactive for the both of us and we get to spend time together.” psychology senior marcus houser

Regardless of your plans this year, the only thing that should really matter is who you spend it with.

— nicole yi, staff writer

“Not a movie or dinner because that’s what everybody does but something crazy. Something that shows he put a lot of thought into it.” political science sophomore crystal garcia

“My perfect Valentine’s Day date would be to go on a picnic someplace secluded and just spend the day together with my boyfriend.” kinesiology sophomore wendy barbero

This Valentine’s, stand up to ‘singles awareness day’ Victoria Valenzuela Staff Writer

As Feb. 14th comes around once again for the singles out there, the stigma of what the day typically signifies tends to send shivers down a few spines. Whether you are fresh out of a relationship or have been without a significant other for quite some time (or indefinitely), Valentine’s Day is often the one day out of the year making you painfully aware of your solitary status. Some may spend it bitter, cursing under their breath at every lovey-dovey couple passing by. Others might simply park themselves in front of their television armed with a marathon of Nicholas Sparks’ favorites and a tub of ice cream. In either case, it’s time to turn that frown upside down and set the spoon aside— to take a stand against what many dub as “Single’s Awareness Day.”

Unfortunately, the by-products of Valentine’s Day are unavoidable— teddy bears holding stuffed hearts, bouquets of flowers and kisses both of the natural and chocolate variety.

Any other day on campus, couples holding hands and sneaking in a bit of PDA before class seems like a normal occurrence. But on V-Day, love runs rampant, making those of us not in a relationship feel like outsiders in a sea of gifts and sweet-nothings. What then, would be the solution to not spending the day depressed and lonely? Rather than viewing singledom as a negative, reverse your thinking!

How do you do this, you ask? By rejoicing in the freedom of being blissfully unattached. Today there will be no money spent on useless presents, no flowers to keep alive and no stressful outfit selections to fuss about. In other words, there are no obligations or expectations to meet for anyone

but your wonderful self. There is no better time than the present to get in touch with the one who truly knows you best: you. While this might conjure the image of spending your evening soaked in a bubble bath surrounded by rose petals and candles, there are other alternatives which are likely to be more appealing. Instead, make the decision to celebrate yourself by doing precisely what you want to do. Want to go have lunch at your favorite spot? Do it. Have your heart set on a movie you’ve been dying to see? Buy the ticket. Better yet, devote the entire day to making decisions that make you happy. If you have class or work and can’t exactly take a day off from your busy life, at the very least treat yourself to something nice—even if it’s just your favorite drink from Starbucks.

Taking this approach might sound lonesome, but just because you are

doing things for your benefit, doesn’t mean that you have to do them solo!

Enlist another single friend (or two) and make the decision to spend Valentine’s Day together. If you plan on going out but are worried about being bombarded by couples roaming the streets, let’s face it—you can’t avoid others’ expressions of love, no matter how hard you try. If that thought is either too revolting, nerve-racking or both, you might also consider staying in for a movie night. That is, if you choose a genre other than romance.

Comedy, action or even horror flicks might be just what you need to give yourself a laugh or even a scare.

There’s nothing like a little “Paranormal Activity” or “Bridesmaids” action to take your mind off the pressures of the day. For the fellas, how about duking it out on Xbox or challenging your buddies to a game of pool? In short, choose something fun

to enjoy just as much as the company that surrounds you.

For some, Valentine’s Day can be a somber occasion. For others, it’s just another day of the week that passes them by and holds no significance whatsoever. What is important to remember is even though you may not have a partner to share your affection with, it is essential to show love to yourself and those around you.

Valentine’s Day is a day for love, even if it’s not in the romantic sense. Show kindness and appreciation to everyone you encounter, whether it is your server at a restaurant or your roommates.

Making others feel special has the same effect on your own heart. By showing thoughtfulness and compassion, you lift the spirits of not only yourself, but other people who may also be struggling on Valentine’s Day.

6 | Valentine’s Day

VOLUME 99, ISSUE 71 | THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2013 B,

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So you have a valentine—now what?

Is this person your boyfriend/ girlfriend?

Have you been together a long time?

yes

no Have you talked about Valentine'’s day gifts?

yes Coffee at east commons

no yes

Does this person like romantic gestures?

no Would this person think a gift is unnecessary?

yes

no yes

no no no

Do you want this person to be your girlfriend/ boyfriend? yes MOVIE AT MISSION VALLEY

Do you love this person?

Do you have any money? no

yes

Is he/she worth it? no

yes ROMANTIC DATE IN CORONADO OR DOWNTOWN

yes

Valentine’s Day |

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2013 | VOLUME 99, ISSUE 71

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Sky Collison, You’re the best person that I have ever known, and I couldn’t imagine life without your friendship. Living with you has been one of the best aspects of my college experience.

Thanks for everything that you do for me.

Love you, Caitlyn

g a zin , t ina n a n a m ve n s i r ee d an e Ch ha n ve b You’ riend an to me t ed k d f gir l r f r i e n eve r a s e b e t t l d h av e u . o I co u ha n k y T for. Vic , L ub

Violet: Loyalty, devotion and faithfulness

pink: grace, gentility and happiness

Flowers say what words can’t Michelle Pluss Staff Writer

yellow: friendship

blue: peace, openness and serenity

T

he season of love is upon us. It’s a time when Katniss Everdeen puts away her bow and arrow to let Cupid have a turn, using the arrows as a means to much happier endings; a time when single girls band together in singlehood solidarity, repeating their, “We don’t need men,” mantra; and when single men applaud one another for avoiding the treacherous path of selecting the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for their beloved.

I am single, so I fall into the aforementioned “girl power” group. In fact, my plans for Valentine’s Day involve a pitcher (or two) of margaritas and a zombie movie marathon. You know, the nice, happy movies where everyone dies and the guy has to run from the undead masses rather than getting the girl. However, there are benefits to being single. Time is one of those benefits, time I would otherwise devote to a relationship is mine to do with as I please. This usually involves school, work, an internship and the occasional rendezvous with my muchneglected bed.

Recently, I’ve had an unprecedented block of free time

and find myself researching the history and meanings of flowergiving during this romantic holiday.

According to Carolyn Black, master gardener at Pennsylvania State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences, the act of flower-giving dates back to the Greeks and Romans; however, it was the Victorians that linked a bouquet of flowers to emotions.

In her essay, “The Joy of Giving Flowers,” Black wrote that the “Victorians, living in an era when people did not believe in openly expressing emotions, found the language of flowers to be an acceptable form of expression.”

Victorians went to great lengths to attach meaning and symbolism to every aspect of giving flowers, from the type and shade of a flower to its placement in an arrangement, according to Black.

In this day and age, we have no problem expressing our emotions; in fact, we may do well to learn something from our prudish ancestors and keep a few of those emotions to ourselves.

Because of our emotional freedom, however, we have lost the meaning of the flower and the true art of flower-giving.

Of course, the standard red rose—prom queen of the flower world—represents love and desire. If you were in a new relationship, however, you may

be better off giving your lady a white clover or a blue salvia: “Think of me” is the message sent by a white clover, whereas a blue salvia says, “I think of you.” Gentlemen, you may also consider a simple bouquet of daisies for a young lady with whom you are courting, for these flowers represent innocence and hope.

Furthermore, a red salvia which means “forever mine” or a violet that represents love, devotion and faithfulness, may be the more romantic way to go for a couple in a long-term, committed relationship.

Other meaningful flowers to consider could be the edelweiss (courage and devotion), holly (hope), lily-of-the-valley (sweetness) or the red tulip (declaration of love).

As I prepare for my margarita and zombiepalooza with my other single friends, I may consider bringing a bouquet of geraniums to my friend’s house to symbolize the true friendship shared between us. Although, to be honest, I think we’ll steer clear of flowers, chocolates or anything relationship-related that day. I will, however, hang onto this list of flowers and their meanings to casually pass on to a future boyfriend just in case he feels like being more creative on a future Valentine’s Day.

8 | opinion

Volume 99, issue 71 | Thursday , february 14, 2013

Discriminatory policy only recruits Christian students

education

T

he California State University system is trying to help more black students pursue a college education. However, its methods are problematic, at best.

Last Sunday, the seventh annual CSU Super Sunday campaign began at Saint Rest Baptist Church in Fresno. CSU leaders will give presentations at more than 100 predominantly black churches throughout the state this month, including 37 in Southern California.

The program is intended to show potential students that earning a college degree is an achievable goal, and to encourage them to take the first steps toward higher education.

“We tell them real early, in elementary school and in high school. Prepare for the day that you can go to college, so then it’s your choice,” CSU Trustee Peter Mehas, who spoke at the kickoff event in Fresno, said.

Many of the students who come from these churches are first-generation college students whose parents may not be equipped to enable their children to succeed in college without assistance from mentorship programs.

“We’re trying to bridge that knowledge gap and equip influencers with information,” CSU Media Relations Specialist Erik Fallis said Super Sunday is just one facet of the larger CSU African Ameri-

can Initiative. The program provides services that detail what students need to do to get to college.

“Super Sunday gets the message to the community in a unique way,” Fallis said.

So far, so good, right? Not exactly. Granted, the program appears to have the best of intentions and has arguably been effective because black-student enrollment has increased since the program began under the administration of Chancellor Emeritus Charles B. Reed. However, it’s a fundamentally discriminatory program that needs to be scrapped immediately in favor of a better model. Furthermore, the upward trend in black graduates from the CSU system commenced seven years before Super Sunday began.

“The 30 percent increase in degrees conferred to AfricanAmerican statistic is actually tied to Reed’s entire tenure, stretching back to when he started in 1998,” Fallis said.

The biggest problem with Super Sunday is a major indirect consequence of this program.

Namely, by focusing strictly on Christian denominations, qualified black students who belong to non-Christian religions—not to mention those who aren’t religious at all—don’t receive the same attention and opportunities. Super Sunday takes place in predominantly Baptist and African Methodist Episcopal churches throughout the state.

Among the Super Sunday venues

listed on calstate.edu, 39 of the churches fall into these two categories and the rest are assorted Christian churches. So, the program may be described, technically, as multidenominational, for Christian denominations.

There is not a single synagogue or mosque listed among event locations for Super Sunday. If there were, the implications wouldn’t be quite as bad. The CSU would merely be favoring religious students more than nonreligious ones. As things currently stand, the cornerstone program of the CSU African American Initiative specifically favors potential students from one specific religion.

Obviously, arguments could be made that Super Sunday subtly conflicts with the idea of separation of church and state. The fact that state-funded institutions of education are using churches as a recruiting ground for potential students who fall into one highly specific ethnic category should be raising red flags all across the place, but the program has existed without apparent impedance for more than half a decade.

There are certainly other, superior ways to recruit minority students.

A great model for targeting minority students already exists in the CSU system. The CSU Hispanic Partnerships Initiative, which has a more diverse assemblage of outreach programs, none of which involve targeting students with particular religious beliefs or excluding students without certain religious affili-

ations.

The Hispanic Partnerships Initiative employs a multifaceted approach to engaging Latino students, using partnerships with organizations such as the Parent Institute for Quality Education, American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education, Univision Education Advisory Committee, La Opinion and the White House Initiative on Education Excellence for Hispanic

Every other aspect of the African American Initiative is directly tied to African Methodist Episcopal, Baptist and Christian organizations.

Americans. Through the Hispanic Partnerships Initiative, the CSU system already proved the effectiveness of secular partnerships in targeting minority students. Many of these Latino students are also first-time students facing similar obstacles as their black classmates. Programs, such as Hispanic Partnerships Initiative, prove there is simply no reason to target a narrow portion of a particular minority group that happens to share religious ideology when it’s possible to reach out to an entire community through completely secular partnerships.

In all fairness, there is one

secular activity in the CSU African American Initiative.

The Super Saturday event is a college fair where the 23 CSU campuses provide information and workshops about topics, such as the CSU application and admission process, financial aid and campus life. However, literally every other aspect of the African American Initiative is directly tied to African Methodist Episcopal, Baptist and Christian organizations.

Even the biannual policy makers briefings, which are hosted by CSU presidents and the chancellor, are centered around briefing black pastors and “faith-based leaders” who operate in California. These briefings are intended “to solidify the partnerships that support the African American Initiative,” according to calstate. edu.

At the end of the day, the CSU system can’t afford to allow the Super Sunday program to continue. At best, it’s an unethical and feeble attempt to reach out to minority students. Essentially, it’s a poor attempt at doing a good thing.

Here’s an idea: Ditch the churches and focus on reaching out to schools with a high concentration of black students.

None of the kids in those schools should miss out on opportunities because they don’t happen to be one of the lucky kids attending the “right” church.

— Assistant Opinion Editor Kenneth Leonard is an English senior

opinion | 9

thursday, february 14, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 71

Love letters from The Daily Save a buck, show your love every day Aztec’s Opinion to SD’s luminaries

valentine’s

L

et’s take a look at the structure of a typical Valentine’s Day. In the morning, you are supposed to be surprised by a bouquet of roses delivered with a cute card: $50. If you live in the residence halls or an apartment complex, your flowers will be compared to everyone else’s flowers. You exchange cutesy texts throughout the day. In the evening, you put on the frilly red dress you bought for Valentines Day: $40, and your significant other knocks on your door with a cheap box of chocolates ($6), a teddy bear ($4) and maybe a heart-shaped gold necklace ($65), if they have more disposable income. Then you go out to that Italian restaurant you have been wanting to try out where you sit next to rows and rows of couples who are out on the exact same date: $50. You somehow come up with a conversation topic you haven’t already talked about and then head out to see “Safe Haven,” or if you are smart, “Silver Linings Playbook” (just get through the first 20 minutes and it gets really good): $24. After enjoying the movie, it’s time to park and you can fill in the rest. At the end of the day, between the two of you, you are out $239. I have approximated the totals based on my own experience and current average prices, but you get my drift. Valentine’s Day alone costs college students a fortune and for what? To tell someone you love them, which is something you should already tell them every day if it’s true. This is a date I have been on; a date I roll my eyes at today. When you go out on Valentine’s Day, you are setting yourself up to be compared to every other couple out there.

Because if someone spent more money, they clearly have a bigger heart.

Showing someone you care should be a spontaneous gesture, not one promoted by people who make money off of it. According to Hallmark’s Valentine’s Day website, the company sells more than 150 million Valentine’s Day cards, not including the cards grade school students pass out as a classroom activity. This puts Valentine’s Day as the runner-up for most cards sold during any holiday season. Can a card really tell my boyfriend how much I care about him more sincerely than I can? The very idea that I would give my loved one a massproduced card suggests our love is just like everyone else’s. Isn’t the point of Valentine’s Day to show someone how much you personally care about them?

Before you get any ideas, I am not bitter and I am not single.

I am dating my best friend and boy, does he have it rough. He doesn’t get to prove to me how much he loves me simply by the price tag on a heart-shaped box of chocolate. And yet, I know exactly how much I mean to him by the way he tells me he loves me, by how often he reminds me and all the caring things he does without being prompted by a corporation, without any outside praise and without any payback beyond knowing I would do the same for him. Flowers aren’t required any other day of the year, so when I get them, they are that much more special. So no, I am not celebrating Valentine’s Day. My boyfriend, Kevin, will be at work and I will be getting Yogurtland with my single (and eligible) roommate. Afterwards, we will spend the weekend together like we always do, using the $239 we saved for something a little more spontaneous.

— Assistant Photo Editor Monica Linzmeier

Beloved “Papa” Doug Manchester, You make us feel things we’ve never felt before. The way you stand up to the liberals and their gay agenda makes us want to give you a standing ovation. No one before has made the far right feel so wrong, yet so good. In local real estate, you plowed in ways no one had, erecting high-rises bigger than anything we’d ever seen.

Sometimes we catch ourselves just sitting and staring at Manchester Hall. Afterwards we go home, take a cold shower and dry off with copies of our beloved U-T San Diego.

With love, lots and lots of love, The Daily Aztec’s confused conservatives

Dearest Dagmar Midcap,

Dear Artie Ojeda’s mustache,

Your smiling face belongs here in this sunny climate, providing accurate and insightful weather forecasts for us, your faithful viewers.

Nobody rocks pencil skirts and Vneck sweaters quite like you, and it’s safe to say you’ve taken our hearts by storm. There hasn’t been a cloud in sight since you arrived in town, as far as we’re concerned. There’s no barometer capable of measuring the pressure we feel when we think of you. We’ve even been prone to emotional flurries. At this point you might be wondering, “Is that a Doppler radar in your pants, or are you just happy to see me?” We’re just happy to see you.

We have often admired you from afar. We watch you on TV in high definition when possible, lending your master an unrivaled sense of gravitas. The moment you enter a room, all eyes fall on you in admiration. As struggling journalism mustaches, we look up to you, hoping to one day have a fraction of the supple fullness you possess. There is so much we wish to learn from you.

We mustache you a question, but we’ll shave it for later.

With love and jealousy, The Daily Aztec’s struggling, patchy facial hair

Sincerely with rising humidity, The Daily Aztec’s weather fans

Dear Mayor Bob Filner,

ing could prepare us for your mayoral campaign. It was love at first sight. When we saw you debate, hurling vicious attacks and baseless accusations, we knew we’d never leave you. When you moved in, we were worried you’d change and lose the spark that made us fall in love. We’re glad to see you haven’t. The San Diego City Council has become

Thank you for making us believe in love again. Before you came along, we were heartbroken and depressed; we thought no one could make us feel the way Randall “Duke” Cunningham had.

Sure, we’d heard stories about you charming your way through the halls of Congress. But noth-

a bizarre three-ring circus of intrigue, personal feuds and pointless political posturing, and for that we thank you. There’s no one else we would rather have occupying our mayoral seat, if you catch our drift.

Sincerely, The Daily Aztec’s hopelessly romantic political junkies

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10 | entertainment

Volume 99, issue 71 | Thursday , february 14, 2013

‘By Your Side’ is a great album to spend V-day with turn it up

Kevin Smead Entertainment Editor

No matter how you feel about Valentine’s Day, there’s always someone who’ll tell you you’re wrong. It’s like they hide in the last truffle of the Russell Stover box, and as soon as you bite into it—not sure if it’s some weird, nut thing or coffee flavored (spoiler: It’s always going to be the gross, nut thing)—you’re treated not only to candy nobody wants, but opinions nobody wants either. You’ll be left annoyed, in need of something to drink and undoubtedly with a weird, leftover taste of nuts in your mouth.

If there’s one thing everyone can agree on, though, it’s love for a solid, grooving album. Luckily, for this year’s Valentine’s Day, Breakbot’s “By Your Side” is there to fill even the coldest hearts with some funk and justsweet-enough disco.

The album’s intro and opening track are enough to entice listeners to check out the rest of the album.

“Break of Dawn” is a quick two-minute introduction to the tone of the album, while “Fantasy,” which features vocals by Ruckazoid, sounds as if it’s ripped straight from an ‘80s Michael Jackson record. There’s nothing not to like about it.

Other standout tracks include the funk-guitar fueled “You Should Know,” the ‘80s-inspired “Programme,” “One Out of Two” (which features one of my favorite opening guitar melodies ever), and the absolutely stellar “Baby I’m Yours,” which has a standout vocal performance by Irfane and perhaps the best instru-

mentation on the album. There’s just something undeniably cool about the track, and it’s physically impossible not to dance along to Breakbot’s killer bass/piano/guitar trifecta.

In fact, what really sells the album is Breakbot’s instrumentation. Although all of the beats are electronic, the rest of the instrumentation is live, providing for a unique and appealing blend of sounds that will no doubt have you dancing throughout the whole album.

The French producer and DJ (whose real name is Thibaut Berland) is not afraid to let his love for disco shine through, as violins sharpen the rounded edges of the album. Breakbot’s keyboard work in “By Your Side” is also absolutely outstanding, which is integral for the keyboard and synths which serve as the main driving force for the album.

Not every track is 100 percent successful, though. Some of the slower, soul-inspired tracks aren’t bad per se, but on an album that’s all about getting down and shaking it, they just aren’t quite on the same level. Despite this, they do make for a nice change of pace. This is an album about love, after all, and some slow jams are essential every now and again.

The album’s outro, “Intersection” can only be described as indie-rockmeets-‘70s soundtrack, and it definitely hits a sweet spot, ending the album in a way that totally defines everything Breakbot is about.

So, this Valentine’s Day, ignore the haters on both sides of the debate and just pick up this album. Whether you have a Valentine or are celebrating being single, Breakbot will be “By Your Side.”

REVIEW Album: by your side artist: breakbot RATING: name , position

courtesy of breakbot

Weekend Concert Calendar Soda Bar

The Casbah

02/14

Japanther

02/14

Wallpaper

02/15

Mouse on Mars

02/15

Transfer

02/16

The Heavy Guilt and Friends

02/16

OM

02/17

Old English

02/17

Old Tiger

Belly Up Tavern

Bar Pink

02/14

The Hives (Sold Out!)

02/14

Fitted

02/15

Ra Ra Riot

02/15

The Nathan James Trio

02/16

Steve Poltz’s 4th

02/16

Neon Beat (‘80s)

02/17

DJs Joemama and Tramlife

Annual 50th B-Day

02/17

Blackalicious

entertainment | 11

thursday, february 14, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 71

In Defense of Something Awful: Valentine’s Day

IDoSA

J. Hutton Marshall Managing Editor

I’ve got nothing to lose this year, so I’ll just go ahead and say it. Ladies, your boyfriend thinks Valentine’s Day is a stupid waste of time. He might pretend to be nice because he’s a “good guy,” whatever that means, but deep down, jumping through hoops to impress our significant others for some hard-tospell holiday made up by greeting card companies (source needed) is not what most of us with a Y-chromosome envision as our perfect day. Don’t get me wrong—or get me wrong, I’ll probably never meet you, so what do I care—I’m not saying a fella can’t treat his gal real dandy and feel swell about it, I’m just saying Valentine’s Day is an unconvincing reason for doing so.

Women, you can stop reading now.

Are they gone? OK, good. So, fellow males, here’s my proposition—which I’m proposing because I’m single and therefore have noth-

life, but you can suffer with pride knowing it’s for the greater good.

Men, imagine a world where Feb. 14 is just a day, a day when we can just play X-box, catch up on “The Walking Dead” and say, “Baby, I’d love to go out, but I’m just really broke right now.” Besides, how long can they really stay mad at us?

What are they going to do: Let the human race go extinct because of a holiday that’s basically an overblown date night?

Sadly, we all know why this plan wouldn’t work. First, I don’t think The Daily Aztec’s distribution is large enough to really implement this column’s plan to its full extent.

Second, and more importantly, we all know women would absolutely let the human race go extinct just to spite us. They’ve got the mental and physical fortitude to wear heels, makeup, miniskirts and God knows what other unfathomably uncomfortable stuff we’re not aware of. I’d prefer to remain ignorant. As for men: Personally, I can barely resist picking the wax out of my ears in public. I don’t like our odds.

Some celebrate Valentine’s Day lusting after their cousin, such as “Arrested Development’s” George Michael Bluth (pictured above holding a relevant candy heart). It must be great having a valentine. What a fun, sexy time for you.

courtesy of fox

They’ve got the mental and physical fortitude to wear heels, makeup, miniskirts and God knows what other unfathomably uncomfortable stuff we’re not aware of. ing to lose—we stop celebrating Valentine’s Day. Sure, there’ll be a little push-back from the fairer sex at first. Some of you might even be forcibly thrust back into single

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So bow down, bros. If we have to wear our clip-on ties and play nice just once a year, let’s be thankful our female overlords don’t make us do this more often.

KCR

KCR is accepting applications for the General Manager position for the Fall 2013 semester, with possibility for reappointment through 2013/14 academic year.

Those interested should pick up an application at the KCR offices, located in the Communications Building, Room 122 or at the A.S. Business Office located in Aztec Mesa, Room 110.

Completed applications are to be submitted to the A.S. Business Office.

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS IS FRIDAY, FEB. 15, 2013 @ NOON

Announcement of the Application Process for

EDITOR IN CHIEF OF THE DAILY AZTEC, ACADEMIC YEAR 2013/14 APPLICANTS MUST HAVE: • Knowledge of newspaper editorial and art production operations, journalism ethics, media law and AP style • One year of collegiate newspaper experience; a minimum of one semester experience at The Daily Aztec is preferred • 60 or more units of completed coursework; minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 Interested persons may pick up an application packet from The Daily Aztec, in the basement of the Education and Business Administration (EBA) building or in the A.S. Business Office, Aztec Mesa, Room 110. Applicants may also download the application packet at www.thedailyaztec.com/jobs or as.sdsu.edu/jobs/joblist.php

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY NOON, FEBRUARY 15, 2013.

The Daily Aztec is an equal opportunity and at-will employer as defined by California law.

12 | BACKPAGE

Volume 99, issue 71 | THURSday, february 14, 2013

Big, beautiful green eyes

humor

Ana Ceballos Assistant News Editor

I consider myself a lucky gal. I found the one for me at age 21. I found happiness just by staring into his big, beautiful green eyes and touching his soft, black hair. Our first encounter was so magical, I literally couldn’t sleep for days (yes, I know the definition of the word literal and I used it correctly). It took him a while to adjust to my busy lifestyle—everyday I leave my apartment at 9 a.m. and usually don’t return until he is fast asleep in front of the TV. By then he is too tired to play with me. I could tell it made him second-guess our relationship at first, but when it was time for bed, he would always crawl in next to me.

He listens to all of my problems and never judges me when I sit in front of the TV all day eating buckets of chocolate ice cream while watching embarrassing reality TV shows.

He genuinely likes my fuzzy pink socks and even massages my feet when I’m doing homework. This might be superficial of me, but he has the softest hair I’ve ever seen on a male. Our bond was unbreakable, or so I thought.

A few months ago, we started having problems. A new man came into my life; he is handsome, funny, smart and also has beautiful green eyes (damn, those green-eyed hunks). The dilemma started when this new man became my boyfriend. Snooks, my cat, did not approve of the situation and made it very obvious.

Almost immediately after my human relationship started, Snooks rebelled against my clean apartment by leaving brown swirly presents on my bathroom rug and abnormally large decapitated moths on my kitchen counter. I started getting anxious when the rebellion wouldn’t stop and had to resort to extreme measures when the cat farting began (if you are a proud cat owner, you know the latter should never be pardoned).

It was tough and, despite all the articles I read on thecatsite.com, which gave me a step-by-step guide to having a harmonious home with my cat, nothing helped. I bought him presents with catnip in them, thinking the highness might alleviate the jealousy, but nothing changed. I over-fed him kitty treats, hoping he would be too full to be angry, but he just became an angry fat cat and I still found purposely misplaced feces in my apartment every other day (bigger than usual, I might add).

For a few weeks, I told my boyfriend not to come to my house. The thought of their first meeting, which instigated all of this, made me scared to think my cat would slit my boyfriend’s throat as he peacefully slept.

This brings me to the first time they met. I left the room for a couple of minutes and found my boyfriend, a dog lover, chasing my cat around the apartment. I heard low meows and human grunts for a good two minutes before I stopped the situation. My boyfriend said the chase was playful and started because Snooks pulled his hair when he was sitting on

the couch. Snooks says my boyfriend was chasing him to throw him off the balcony. I think someone is lying.

I have to admit it would be easier to get rid of the boyfriend—maybe change my phone number and tell him I moved to Tennessee. Yes, I love him, but how could I handle leaving my cat at a shelter where he’ll be put in a cage surrounded by sad-looking animals? Snooks is part of the elite and could not handle that—he needs kitty treats every other hour.

Things began to get better around Christmas. My boyfriend bought Snooks more toys infested with catnip and decided to put things in the past.

Snooks was hesitant at first, thinking maybe the toys were poisoned, but then came around and they started getting along for the first time in months. Thank you, Jesus, for being born and giving us a holiday where presents are given.

The three of us now have an agreement—they get to share me and I get to have a relationship with two men at one time. I approve of this agreement and I think they do, too. Snooks just farts on my boyfriend’s face most nights and my boyfriend stopped playing with him as if he were a dog.

Yes, it’s an unusual threesome, but now we can all bond in my apartment without worrying about cats clawing humans or stinky poops being stepped on at 2 a.m. in the bathroom.

But I have to say, Snooks is still the owner of my heart. After all, cats are planning world domination one girl at a time.

HOROSCOPE

by Nancy Black, Tribune Media Services

Today’s Birthday (2/14/13) - Pablo Neruda said, “Laughter is the language of the soul.” Take this to heart, as springtime romances your schedule with social events.

The spotlight is on, so play to the crowd.

After June, a career shift leads you in a worthwhile direction. Keep performing, and smile for the cameras.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 9 - Quit dilly-dallying, and surrender to your passion. The action is behind the scenes.

Confer with family on decisions. Put in the extra effort. Success is within your grasp.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 6 - There’s light at the end of the tunnel, but why rush out when you can dance in the dark? Reveal your adorable side. And wear something comfortable.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 7 - It’s all about partnership. Rely on your team and get inspired. Share your winnings.

Pretend the work is fun, and it will be.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today is an 8 It’s a good time for romantic plans. Grasp an opportunity and you may get a bonus. Make subtle refinements along the way. Be happy with what you have.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is an 8 - Dress well, and relax with confidence. Your friends are saying nice things about you.

You’re in charge of your happiness. Bring along an interesting companion.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 7 - Provide leadership. Work that you love pays

well now. Find another way to cut expenses.

Shop carefully. It’s an excellent time to fall in love. Savor the deliciousness.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 9 - Opportunities arise in your social network.

Consult an expert, use your partner’s ideas and accept tutoring from a loved one. Keep delivering what you say you will. Your fame travels.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is an 8 - Necessity birthed invention. A creative solution provides ease. Get others to help.

You’re making a good impression on an older person. Consider a new hairstyle; you’re looking good.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is an 8 - Follow your wise partner’s advice and encouragement. There’s good news from far away. Get something that will grow in value.

Good conversation is free, so listen carefully.

All is forgiven.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is an 8 - Housework is satisfying. You have valuable resources hidden. Get a boost from a partner. Romance blossoms at a distance.

You’re making a good impression. Study what you love.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - What you give freely returns to you tenfold.

Build up savings by avoiding letting others spend for you. Love finds a way. It’s easy to understand. Others find you fascinating.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is an 8 - You’re learning good stuff. Keep your long-term goals in mind, and add a touch of elegance. Love hits you like a feather. Hold a social gathering, and get a pleasant surprise. ©2013, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

SUDOKU

by The Mepham Group, Tribune Media Services

Difficulty Level: 4 out of 4

LOOKING THROUGH OUR LENS

Instructions: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9.

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com ©2013, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

WWW.THEDAILYAZTEC.COM CROSSWORD

file photo

throwback thursday

ucsb softball players watch from the sidelines as outfielder brittany knudsen

(39) hits the ball for a run. the 5-1 on feb. 14, 2009.

aztecs defeated the gauchos

Across 1 Geometry subject 6 Vend 10 “Don’t let anyone else hear this” 14 Cowboy, at times 15 Palm product 16 Classic cream-filled snack 17 For the birds?

18 Agile deer 19 Actor Ken 20 Stout 23 Seaside raptor 24 Have to thank for, with “to” 25 Horn sound 26 Belgrade native 28 Lawn option 29 Nova Scotia hrs.

32 Relative via remarriage 36 Shell out 37 Stout 40 Gremlin and Pacer 41 Able to come back 42 Cole Porter’s “__ Clown” 43 Bond, for one 45 “Heavens to Betsy!”

46 Place to tie up 48 “__ we having fun yet?”

49 Intractable beast 52 Stout 57 Dead set against 58 Ram, e.g.

59 Significant 60 Sax immortal Getz 61 Politico Bayh 62 Blue hue 63 Reaction to being cut off 64 Not a good mark 65 Hem again Down 1 Talk and talk 2 Casanova 3 For the bees 4 Tide type 5 Cubemaster Rubik 6 Milkshake choice 7 Gradually vanish 8 Cobb of “12 Angry Men”

by Rich Norris & Joyce Lewis, Tribune Media Services

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 9 Not get the better of 10 Flickr image 11 Ring insert 12 Knife in “West Side Story” 13 Shape (up) 21 Tire-shaped 22 New England catch 26 Nos. for beachgoers 27 Chemical suffix 28 Cryptozoologist’s quarry 30 Name meaning “young warrior” in Old Norse 31 Short communication 32 Work on a deck 33 Large volume 34 Yosemite attraction 35 Not a good mark 36 Crossword component 38 Rival of Rory 39 Greeting in Rio

43 When doubled, a breath freshener 44 Specialized undergrad course 47 Permanently 48 Liam Neeson voiced him in “The Chronicles of Narnia” films 49 Like many a prime rib serving 50 One in a Lincoln quartet?

51 Scatter 52 Reason for stitches 53 “Do __ ...”

54 Late-inning achievement 55 Barbra’s “Funny Girl” co-star 56 Flabbergast