02-17-2014 by The Daily Aztec

VOLUME 100, ISSUE 43

MONday Feb. 17 - wednesday Feb. 19, 2014

Get up-to-the-minute news @ thedailyaztec.com P5 / opinion

Fee forums fail students

P10 / mundo azteca

La frontera, alrevez

FLYING HIGH Wesley Beights, Staff Photographer

| sports P6

staff photo

Questions remain in student death | news P3

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Photo courtesy of Phil knott

Wake up and go to the House of Blues | entertainment P9

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2 NEWS

feb. 17 - feb. 19, 2014

#sdsudivest

Campaign urges SDSU divestment SDSU student orginizations are seeking the attention of university officials. ana ceballos managing editor

A group of San Diego State students began a campaign last month to urge university officials to divest from companies they say profit from anti-Palestinian Israeli policies. The campaign is led by a diverse group of students who are members of Students for Justice in Palestine and the Student Union for Representation and Justice. However, only one Palestinian is involved. The committee’s goal is to pressure the university’s administration to pull investments out of corporations such as

In the next month, SJP will hold student forums to present its case.

Caterpillar, General Electric, Hewlett Packard and Motorola among other companies that “play a role in Israel’s war crimes and human rights violations.” Nadir Bouhmouch, SDSU’s Students for Justice in Palestine co-chair, said the campaign was inspired by student boycotts that helped end South Africa’s racist regime 30 years ago. “These students had such an important role in bringing down the apartheid regime and today we are doing it again. It’s the ethical thing to do,” television, film and new media and international security and conflict resolution senior Bouhmouch said. In an effort to demand the university to pull investments, Bouhmouch said this is a non-violent approach to pressuring companies to stop doing business with Israel amid losing contracts or support from investors such as SDSU. See SDSU Divestment, P11

photo courtesy of the students for justice in palestine facebook page.

#helpthekelp

Scientists study nuclear kelp radiation in Calif. camille lozano staff writer

Radiation from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant’s triple meltdown in March 2011 has begun to raise concerns among scientists as devastation from the disaster makes its way to the Pacific Northwest. California State University, Long Beach biologist Dr. Steven Manley and Berkeley Lab’s Head of Applied Nuclear Physics Dr. Kai Vetter have launched “Kelp Watch 2014” to begin testing coastal waters for radiation using kelp samples. A team of more than 40 scientists has assembled for the scientific campaign, including San Diego State’s Dr. Matthew Edwards, a kelp ecologist, and Dr. Todd

Anderson, a fish ecologist. The ecologists, along with six undergraduate and graduate students, will be aiding in the study by gathering kelp samples from the Point Loma and La Jolla kelp forests. “We think we will be able to detect it, but we don’t think it will be detectable at levels that are harmful to the ecosystem, fisheries and human health,” Edwards said. The teams will visit the kelp forests on research boats and identify the populations that are of interest. They will then collect several pounds of kelp from “the actively growing region of the surface canopy,” Edwards said. The kelp will be left to dry and then put into a drying oven for 48 hours before being pulverized and ground into a fine powder, then sent to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s Low Background Facility for analysis.

“Kelps are a nice barometer, a nice indicator of what is in the ocean,” Edwards said. “They absorb what’s in the surrounding seawater, and we can use them as a sort-of litmus for what’s in the water.” According to Berkeley’s Kelp Watch 2014 website, samples will be taken in Alaska, British Colombia, Washington, Oregon, California, Baja California, Mexico, Chile, Hawaii and Guam. Currently, the project is in the preliminary stages as researchers coastwide receive shipping codes and gear. In the next two to three weeks, Edwards and Anderson will begin taking samples and working in conjunction with researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. See kelp study, P11

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NEWS

feb. 17 - feb. 19, 2014

#studentdeath

Student death under investigation

Photo courtesy of the Candlelight Memorial for Tommy Reverand Facebook page.

hannah beausang news editor

luke henning

assistant news EDITOR Tommy Reverand, a pre-business administration marketing sophomore and member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at San Diego State, died this past Monday. San Diego police were called at 3:47 p.m. Monday to the residential 5300 block of East Falls View Drive, Lt. Jorge Duran said. San Diego police officers responded to the scene, according to Duran. The case is still under investigation and further details can’t be released at this time, Duran said. The cause of death has not yet been determined. The SDSU Police Department has ruled out any possibilities of foul play and given the case to the SDPD, SDSUPD Capt. Joshua Mays said. SAE organized a candlelight memorial

service to honor Reverand’s life, held on Tuesday night. The vigil was on a grassy area between the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union and the Open Air Theater. More than 240 people confirmed attendance on the public Facebook event page. The hashtag #RIPTommy has emerged on Twitter, allowing students to give condolences. @JacquelineKarcz tweeted, “So touched and inspired by all the compassion and love there was tonight #RIPTommy.” @popcarnes tweeted, “What a beautiful way to say goodbye to a beloved friend. #RIPTommy.” Zura residence hall adviser and liberal studies sophomore Alyssa Sundelius said Reverand’s death has been difficult for the campus. “Thankfully we are all a part of a community that supports each other and lifts up those who are hurting,” Sundelius said. “I may have only met Tommy once, but from that moment up until now, I have

heard great things about him. To some he was a best friend and a brother, to others he was a classmate and an acquaintance, but to all of us Tommy was and always will be our fellow Aztec. He will always be missed and he will never be forgotten.” Both the SAE regional director and SDSU chapter president were not available for comment. Student Life and Leadership Student Life Advisor Jordan Lewton addressed rumors that Reverand may not have been an active member of SAE. “Whenever there’s a death of a student, somebody wants to place blame somewhere,” Lewton said. “It’s unfortunate that’s the focus of it, because no one’s really covered what kind of a person he was. I think that’s why students put together the memorial.” Lewton said Reverand is on the current roster for the fraternity, but her department is looking into his status as a member. She said regardless of his active status, students still banded together in

his memory, ignoring the debate to focus on honoring his life. “I think they just thought, ‘He was a friend,’” Lewton said. “At the end of the day, who cares if he was a member?” Reverand’s passing marks the second death of a member of the SDSU chapter of SAE in the past two years. In April 2012, criminal justice junior Barzeen Barzanji, who was then-president of SAE, was found dead in the Phi Kappa Theta fraternity house. A candlelit vigil was also organized in Barzanji’s honor. Several members of neighboring fraternities and sororities declined to comment, saying they couldn’t talk about the incident. “It’s a touchy subject,” Lewton said. “It’s one of those things that people don’t really want to talk about.” Staff writers Elpin Keshishzadeh and Quinn Owen also contributed to this report.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

ATTENTION: ALL SDSU STUDENTS All SDSU students are invited to attend advisory open forums to solicit student input on the following proposed increase in campus mandatory student fees: 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 Monday, Feb. 17 Monday, Feb. 17

TIME 10:00 am 1:00pm

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

Tuesday, Feb. 18

10:00 am

Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union

Tuesday, Feb. 18

1:00 pm

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

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

Friday, Feb. 21 12:00 pm Templo Mayor, Aztec Student Union _____________________________________________________________________________ Please attend one of the scheduled open forums to learn about the proposed fee increase, ask questions and have your voice heard. Please bring your current SDSU Card ID to the forum of your choosing. To review additional information about the proposed fee increase, visit http://studentsuccessfee.sdsu.edu. Forum dates, times and locations are subject to change.

4 OPINION

FEB. 17 - FEB. 19, 2014

who’swho

#officehours

Editor In Chief Leonardo Castañeda Managing Editor Ana Ceballos News Editor Hannah Beausang assistant News Editor Luke Henning Sports Editor Adriana Bush Opinion Editor Madison Hopkins Entertainment Editor David Dixon Features Editor Elisse Miller Copy Chief Caitlin Johnson Assistant Copy Chief Erik Dobko Copy Editors Terence Chin Kelly Hillock Maria Del Carmen Huerta Elpin Keshishzadeh Photo Editor Monica Linzmeier

Make time for office hours

all images COURTESY OF THINKSTOCK

Students should use office hours to build relationships and get ahead academically. Marissa ochoa contributor

The holiday cheer is gone and the school grind is back in motion. With the new semester, a clean slate to bag that perfect GPA is once again in reach. However, no matter how many study groups or annotated chapters students go through, it sometimes seems impossible to earn a passing grade to be proud of. Alas, don’t despair, for I have the secret to achieving the grades you know you deserve. Attend your professor’s office hours. It’s as simple as that. I know some readers were expecting something more taboo, but don’t boot it until you’ve tried it. Even if you have tried it, there are always second chances. The first time I attended office hours, I was appalled with how rare it is for students to actually utilize a professor’s time. With them practically throwing it in our faces, it’s hard to believe that less than a handful of students take advantage of the one-on-one help that’s available. San Diego State political science professor Ronnie Schreiber said that she would only see about five percent of her 500-student classes during her office hours throughout the semester. What do you think they are there for? Professors are literally waiting for students to come in and ask questions. That’s part of their job. “I wish that if students had concerns … instead of either using email to try to articulate a concern and never come talk to me, or if they’re floundering in class, I wish they would come to office hours as opposed to waiting until the very last week,” Schreiber said. A common misconception about office hours is that they’re a complete waste of time. If you couldn’t learn in class, how

is learning during office hours any different? This type of thinking is the key to a failing grade. The fact that a student has the professor’s undivided attention is already a clear indicator that the content he or she is struggling with will be dissected thoroughly. Another problem students have is making it to office hours. It can sometimes be difficult to meet a professor’s availability, but this is where you have to pick your battles. It’s ultimately the student’s choice whether he or she thinks a passing grade is worth it. Not only that, but some professor’s are open to setting individual appointments. Trust me, I used to have similar skepticism regarding office hours. I used to question them and never understood the need for such time. I used to say to myself, “Pay more attention next time and it’ll eventually become clear.” However, we all know this is nothing but a pipe dream. My fall semester is a prime example of exactly this. I’m a journalism major who struggles in any class that isn’t writing-based. I was enrolled in a course that I knew I was going to

struggle in from the get-go. Lo and behold, a third of the way into the semester I found myself with a 56 percent and only two exams left to salvage what I had. Might I also add, I needed a 75 percent for it to count toward my major. At this point, I had two choices: I could follow my old philosophy and study more and hope for the best, or I could set aside my ego and get real help from the instructor. After several visits of individual instruction from the professor, I passed the class with an 85 percent. That’s a bump from an F to a B. I was proud, but not surprised. I knew the extra help had thoroughly prepared me for the upcoming exams. The only regret I have is not taking advantage of the professor’s time until recently. Not only do you get the extra help, but you can also build a relationship with them. If you’re a student who refrains from asking questions during class, you should already know that the professor is more than happy to speak with you separately. “We list office hours and we have them for a reason. Students shouldn’t be afraid to come,” Schreiber said. Take it from me: Don’t waste your time complaining about a difficult class and instead use that energy to get the help you need. I know going out of your way to see an instructor can be a burden, but which would you prefer: seeing your professor at their convenience or retaking a class that you already had trouble with the first time around? Avoid the potential downward spiral and take advantage of these amazing opportunities offered by your professors. With SDSU being such a large university, the students are privileged to have professors who are willing to offer individual help, and it’s time more Aztecs took advantage of it.

Art Director Carlos Jimenez Production Designers Mark Anthony Santos Gabriela Flores Web Editor Victor Escoto _____________________________________ Advertising Director Jesse Castañeda A.s. Sales Manager Jordan Kato Account Executives Tony Disarufino Chase Gillmore Matt Kilefner Radbeh Rabaz Marissa Walsh Kathleen Williams Adam Zabel Accounting & Contracts Michael Bratt Kim Le Public Relations Kelly Hillock Christina Koral _____________________________________ General Manager Jay Harn Graphics Specialist Christopher Blakemore _____________________________________

what’swhat

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FIND US The Daily Aztec office is located in the basement of the Education and Business Administration (EBA) building. LIKE us facebook.com/dailyaztec follow us twitter.com/thedailyaztec write us tips@thedailyaztec.com _____________________________________ The Aztec has been San Diego State University’s independent student newspaper since 1913.

opinion

feb. 17- FEB. 19, 2014

#studentsuccessfee

Success fee forums fail students Student and Faculty Feedback

editorial

and that attendance is mandatory to vote on a fee that could change the future of the university. While it’s possible the administration has gone to further lengths to reach students, if we, the student journalists of the university, have failed to pick up on it, then it’s likely the insignificance of the attempts have also left many other students in the dark. Considering the powers of mass communication we have seen the administration put into effect time and time again to promote happenings on campus, it seems odd and frankly unreasonable that such strategies aren’t being put into play to inform students of an issue of this magnitude. Those in charge of this promotion have the power to send daily mass emails and text messages. There could be posters covering every surface of campus, professors could be making announcements in every class, representatives could be tabling every day. All of these options would cost the university little to nothing, while greatly increasing the likelihood that more students would at least understand their options and the decision before them. At the forums, dialogue is encouraged and the presenters seem genuinely dedicated to making sure the attendees understand the implications and necessities of the fee. It’s a shame that the same attitude didn’t carry over to dedication to raising awareness for the forums and the issue to begin with. If the university is serious about including students in the decision of what kind of financial burden they feel is suitable and feasible, it’s time to act on it. Simply offering inclusion means nothing without the proper implementation. If students are meant to be a part of the process, it’s the responsibility of the university to educate and inform them in as many ways as possible. Any differentiation fails the alternative consultation process and robs the student body of its opportunity to have a voice in the most important decision facing the university in a generation or more.

After several forums, The Daily Aztec staff polled a total of 33 students and faculty members and this is what they had to say.

Students: What is your position on the Student Success Fee after attending the forum?

For at $200 21.2%

Against any amount 36.4%

For at $500 12.1%

For at $400 12.1%

For at $300 18.2%

Students: Do you think the forum presented the information in a fair and impartial way?

Not Sure

San Diego State students are in the midst of a historic decision. The problem is, most of them don’t realize it. The recently proposed Student Success Fee is currently up for debate in information forums held twice daily. Students are invited to attend these as a part of an alternative consultation process. Those who attend the forums are given the opportunity to give their recommendations for whether or not the new fee should be implemented and at what price. Unfortunately, because of low student turnout and a general lack of understanding from the student body regarding the purpose of the forums, they are not working as effectively as intended. Because of this, The Aztec’s editorial board believes the alternative consultation process will fail to produce accurate results that reflect the wishes of the majority of the student body. We do not feel comfortable endorsing a particular decision regarding the Student Success Fee at this time, as we feel the lack of participation has left too many fellow Aztecs uninformed about something that could greatly impact their finances and academics. We ask the administration to extend the dates of these forums and mobilize every resource in its power to reach students and inform them of their right to be heard. Although the idea to include students in the decision-making process may be respectable in theory, in reality it has come to no avail. The school administration has failed the student body in their efforts to promote the forums and thoroughly explain their purpose. As far as we are aware, their efforts to publicize the events have been limited to an advertisement in this publication, classroom announcements, a few small fliers and an announcement on SDSU NewsCenter. However, none of these tactics accurately explain the opportunity to offer feedback. Instead, the use of vague phrasing such as “We want your feedback,” which confuses the true significance of student feedback

3.0%

No 21.2%

Somewhat 21.2%

Yes 54.5%

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6 SPORTS

feb. 17 - feb. 19, 2014

#aztecmbb

Aztecs bounce back against Air Force terence chin staff writer

Although the 20-game winning streak came to an end last week, the San Diego State men’s basketball team couldn’t wait to come home to start a new one. This time, the victims were the Air Force Academy Falcons. On Saturday, coming off of a tough loss

to the University of Wyoming Cowboys, the Aztecs wasted no time doing what they’ve been accustomed to doing all but two times this season: winning. SDSU defeated Air Force 64-56 to capture their 22nd win of the season, improving to 11-1 for the first time ever in Mountain West Conference play. It was a hard-fought game throughout by both teams. The Aztecs led 24-23 at

A dunk by senior forward Josh Davis sends the crowd into a frenzy. Wesley Beights, staff photographer

was going to go get it.” the end of the first as both teams were With momentum on their side, the shooting just 34 percent from the field. Aztecs didn’t look back as Air Force never Junior forward Dwayne Polee II provided led in this game again. Shepard finished a spark off the bench, leading SDSU with this game with a team-high 16 points, seven points heading into halftime. and Thames and Polee II finished with 13 In the second half, senior guard Xavier points each. Thames started to heat up. With 16 minutes Head coach Steve Fisher spoke after the and 25 seconds remaining, the game was game about Shepard’s second half surge, tied at 28. Thames then connected on two explaining the type of player he is to this back-to-back 3-point shots to give the team. Aztecs a 34-28 advantage, while Polee II “Winston is a very, very smart basketball scored the next four points, including an player. When he continues to get engaged alley-oop dunk assisted by sophomore and make easy plays, he adds so many forward Winston Shepard. Air Force positives to what we do,” wasted no time calling Fisher said. “He’s a a timeout with 12:45 very good passer, left to play, as SDSU he’s becoming a went on a 10-0 run, “At heart, I’m a play much more reliable which brought the maker and I hope for free throw shooter; sold-out crowd to its those types of plays he knows how to feet. every game all game.” and has the ability “At heart, I’m a Winston Shepard to get to the rim … play maker and I he’s a hard guard.” hope for those types With SDSU of plays every game back in the win all game,” Shepard said, when asked about column, it will next welcome the Utah his alley-oop. “As soon as I seen D.P. (Polee State University Aggies at 8:05 p.m. this II) running the break and it was a two-onTuesday, Feb. 18 at Viejas Arena. Expect one situation, I knew where I was going to another sold-out game, as it took overtime go with it. He’s one of the highest jumping for the Aztecs to defeat the Aggies in their players I’ve ever seen in my life … I already last meeting. knew I could throw it up anywhere and he

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ENTERTAINMENT

FEB. 17 - FEB. 19, 2014

#MOXIETHEATRE

The young Ernestine Crump (Jada Temple, center) starts to become a mature adult after she moves with her family to Brooklyn. PHOTO COURTESY OF DAREN SCOTT

A few ‘Crumbs’ satisfy audiences DAVID DIXON

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR The Moxie Theatre’s production of “Crumbs from the Table of Joy” makes it seem as though the audience is watching a coming of age novel brought to life. Extensive narration and stylish language is used to tell the tale of a young black girl living in the 1950s. Following the death of her mother, Ernestine Crump (Jada Temple) moves with her mischievous sister, Ermina Crump (Deja Fields) and father, Godfrey Crump (Vimel Sephus), from Florida to Brooklyn, New York. Devastated by the loss of his wife, Godfrey becomes a very religious man and tries to make his daughters just as spiritual as he. Soon

after they get situated, Ernestine’s sharptongued communist aunt, Lily Ann Green (San Diego State’s Cashae Monya), decides to join the family in their new residence. While Godfrey finds her attitude and ways of life frustrating, Ernestine and Ermina become fascinated with their eccentric aunt. The Moxie Theatre Artistic Director Delicia Turner Sonnenberg, who also co-directed SDSU’s production of “The Labyrinth of Desire” with Peter Cirino, displays her versatility as a storyteller. She stage managed the original version in 1995 at the Second Stage Theatre offBroadway. This comedic drama is significantly more upbeat than some of Sonnenberg’s more recent works, including Moxie

Theatre’s “Skinless” and “The Amish Project,” which was produced by the Mo’olelo Performing Arts Company. Sonnenberg’s direction is frequently creative, especially with how she handles Ernestine’s monologues and dream sequences. These moments feature visual imagery that is both tongue-in-cheek and poetic. Pulitzer Prize winning writer Lynn Nottage deals with deep themes and ideas about intolerance, relationships and feminism. The messages are presented in a subtle manner, which keeps the plot from turning sappy or melodramatic. All the performers make their characters find the humanity in Nottage’s prose. Temple has such a relaxed stage presence as Ernestine and the snappy writing comes

across as natural. She earns the audience’s sympathy with her charisma and witty timing. Monya brings an abundance of energy and irresistible snark as Lily. Although Lily is far from a perfect person, Monya is such a delight to watch, the character never becomes dislikable. Fields and Sephus provide solid supporting work throughout. The two performers could have made their roles cartoonishly broad, but both of them wisely underplay their parts as members of the Crump family. “Crumbs from the Table of Joy” uses humor and pathos to create an identifiable play about growing up during an ugly period of American history. The emotional tone and messages should resonate for all.

#MARISSANADLER

Lost in the dreamy folk of Marissa Nadler RYO MIYAUCHI

SENIOR STAFF WRITER The 14-year career of folk musician Marissa Nadler has been an impressive one. Nadler has released one intriguing record after another throughout her now seven-album discography. “July,” her latest record, is no different. In the album, Nadler’s songs sound even richer

Marissa Nadler has only become a more memorable and impressive singer during her career.

and dreamier than before. With her new material, Nadler is bound to take her audience to a surreal place through her songs when she performs at the Soda Bar on Feb. 23. Nadler writes folk music following the traditional way of the genre. Much like the greats, her music focuses on storytelling and conversations. She often sings about past memories, especially in the songs on “July.” Nadler’s tunes ring bittersweet as she hangs onto them as a heartbreaking experience, yet so precious at the same time. Take her current single, “Dead City Emily,” a tribute to a friend who stood by Nadler’s side during past relationships. “I was falling apart those days,” Nadler opens with a shaky voice. Later in the chorus she sings, “Every other man would have run away / Emily was something more.” While Nadler’s acoustic guitar strumming has

remained soft as a whisper as on her past records, her new songs sound smokier in “July.” Compared to her previous self-titled album, the songs in “July” are easier to get lost in. The translucent feel of her music comes alive best in her song “Was It a Dream.” “Was it a Dram?” Nadler questions, following with “Or was it something sinister?” That unsure feeling of whether it was dream or reality runs strong in the song. As her voice fades away, the track leaves a chilly sensation. Nadler will be playing her fascinating songs live on Sunday, Feb. 23. For those looking for music that can relieve some stress, Nadler and her music should drift those issues away with ease. “July” is perfect Sunday night music, perhaps even better experienced live. Nadler’s songs may feel like a dream, but the experience from her music is as real as it gets.

ENTERTAINMENT

FEB. 17 - FEB. 19, 2014

#SLEEPERAGENT

Don’t fall asleep on this young band COURTNEY BROWN STAFF WRITER

On Monday, Feb. 17, the House of Blues will open its doors to New Politics, Sleeper Agent and Magic Man. The Aztec recently had a chance to get to know Alex Kandel and the alternative rock band Sleeper Agent. While promoting the upcoming album, “About Last Night,” the band could not be happier to be on the road sharing their passion with audiences. When speaking with Kandel over the phone, her insight and poise evoked such maturity, it was hard to believe she just turned 21.

“We’ve been on the road for so long with the same people; we all grew up together,” Kandel said when asked about life on the road. Sleeper Agent’s sound has been described by Rolling Stone as “lusty garage rock with loads of retro smarts,” and has been praised by Spin and Esquire. When asked about her musical influences throughout the past decade, Kandel paused to think. “Jay Retard definitely influenced our first record,” Kandel said. We create a highenergy experience on stage at every show and just want to give people something to dance to. After our first album,

‘Celabrasion,’ we sort of created a goofy, quirky brand for ourselves, but ‘About Last Night’ reflects us diving a little deeper.” The six musicians transcended into their new album with determination to evolve. Their hard work is shown through the precision and deep lyricism on the tracks, yet they don’t depart from their upbeat, funky jams.  “We really pushed ourselves mentally and physically throughout this album. We never stopped working” Kandel said. When asked about the difficulties of capturing the same quirky aesthetic of Sleeper Agent that fans fell in love with

into something a little more serious, Kandel said, “We’ve always been able to write heartbreaking lyrics that come from emotional moments and turn them into something to dance to. We still see the same die-hard fans coming back because no matter what direction life takes us in, we’re still Sleeper Agent.” Not many young bands master the craft of experimentation while maintaining a recognizable brand as Sleeper Agent has done. Catch them at the House of Blues on Feb. 17 for an epic show. If that isn’t enough, Kandel said, “You can find me at In-n-Out Burger.”

Alex Kandel provides vocals for the critically acclaimed six-person alternative rock band, Sleeper Agent. Its latest album, “About Last Night,” will be released on March 25. PHOTO COURTESY OF PHIL KNOTT

News you can’t refuse. www. t h ed a ilya z te c. c om

10 Mundo

Feb. 17 - Feb. 19, 2014

#Disinfection

Estudiante voltea roles fronterizos Angel bonilla escritor

Alexandra Parral, estudiante de producción de televisión y filme en La Universidad Estatal de San Diego (SDSU) al igual que directora y escritora del corto “La Familia de Sofia,” regresa al Festival de Filmes de SDSU con su drama “Disinfection.” “Disinfection”, que toma tiempo en el año 2020, cuenta la historia de una epidémica que se a llevado acabo en los Estados Unidos y los efectos que tendrán el reencuentro entre padre e hija al otro lado de la frontera. Mientras mucha gente puede pasar sin algun obstáculo, Paul Johnson (Paul Whetstone), un hombre Norte-Americano con intención de visitar a su hija, tiene que pasar por un tratamiento de “desinfección”. Un método en el que es bañado en gasolina y los regalos de su hija son vaporizados. El corto se convierte aun mas emocional cuando Parral revela que es basada en hechos reales. Hechos que ocurrieron en 1920 en las fronteras de El Paso, Texas, donde Mexicanos intentando cruzar a los Estados Unidos eran sometidos a este tipo de procedimientos. Parral dice haber sido inspirada para el film por sus propias experiencias al igual

La película “Disinfection” fue dirigida por Alexandra Parral, estudiante de producción de televisión y filme en SDSU.

que de sus conocidos. La escena donde desinfectan las flores en “Disinfeccion” fue algo que en realidad le ocurrió a Parral. “Los procedimientos aveces no son los mas adecuados”, agrego Parral, al hablar sobre la gente que pasa diariamente la frontera. Paul Whetstone, actor principal del filme, dice haberse sentido emocional al

filmar su escena desnudo y saber que este tipo de procedimientos le pasan a muchas personas. “Con experiencia como policía y militar, tenia un poco de la perspectiva de la situación”, dice Whetstone. Whetstone agrega que siente que este filme intenta enfocarse en cambiar la perspectiva de la población conservativa,

y poner a ellos en los zapatos de los perjudicados. Whetstone aprecia a Parral, ya que dice que “las perspectivas e ideas de Parral son muy interesantes, ya que nació (en los Estados Unidos) y fue creada en Tecate”. “Este filme no es para representar lo que paso, si no para crear consciencia de lo que paso”, dijo Parral.

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feb. 17 - feb. 19, 2014

#sdsudivest

Divestment: Dates to get involved in the debate Continued from P2

But opposition to the campaign emerged in an official statement from Hillel of San Diego at SDSU Director Jackie Tolley. Tolley said “students at SDSU would be better served with an effort to support a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict” rather than a “resolution that is part of an international campaign whose hidden agenda is to eradicate the Jewish state and the only democracy in the Middle East.” “To single out Jewish self-determination — or Zionism — for condemnation is itself a form of anti-Jewish racism,” Hillel said in the statement. This spring, SDSU will join CSU Northridge to be the only two California State University campuses with student campaigns for divestment. In the past two years, California campuses including the universities of California in Irvine, Berkeley and San Diego, have passed similar resolutions. With the start of the campaign at SDSU,

the resolution will now go through the legislative arms of Associated Students, the University Affairs Board, the University Council and finally the Board of Directors. Ultimately, the university’s administration will take the Board of Directors’ advice into consideration and determine whether or not to go through with the resolution. This decision is estimated to be made during the week of March 10. “It will be a victory whether we win or lose, because we are using this campaign as an educational tool as well,” Bouhmouch said. But Tolley considers the proposed resolution to be in need of “extraordinary resources” by A.S. when this is an international issue that she says most students on campus disagree on. In the next month, SJP will hold student forums to present their case. Both the SDSU divestment committee and Hillel are prepared to inform students about issues surrounding the IsraeliPalestinian conflict and the campaign.

Save the date...

Wed. 2/19

Student forum in Park Boulevard > This forum will allow students on the divestment committee to present their case. The opposition’s argument will not be presented on this date. The forum will begin with a reading of the resolution.

Thurs. 2/20

Public reading in front of Hepner Hall

Tues. 2/25

Debate in the Montezuma Hall Theatre

> Members of the divestment committee will table from 9 a.m. to noon and will read about the resolution every 15 minutes between noon and 1 p.m.

> The debate will allow both sides to present their cases simultaneously. Only students are allowed to participate, non-students are forbidden from being on this panel, but can be present in the audience to ask questions. The debate will be moderated by the SDSU debate club and will assume the following format:

Tues. 3/4

Open forum in Montezuma Hall Theatre

(a) Public reading of the resolution, 10 mins; (b) Each side presents its case, 5 minutes; (c) The moderator asks questions, 30 minutes; (d) Students from the audience ask questions at an open mic, 30 minutes.

> This open forum will bring in panel participants that are not necessarily students. For the pro-divestment side, Nasser Barghouti from the BDS Committee, Miko Peled Israeli author of “The General’s Son” and two student participants will speak. The opposition will not be participating in this event.

The debate will focus less on the conflict itself and more on the resolution.

Design by chris blakemore, graphics specialist

#helpthekelp

Kelp: Aztec science Continued from P2

Associate researcher at Scripps Institution of Oceanography Dr. Edward Parnell will be collecting samples from the La Jolla kelp forest and agreed with Parenell’s doubt about the severity of the radiation levels. “Even if they find radiation, the level will be so low, that ecologically it will be insignificant,” Parnell said. “It’s not going to get into the food web.” The University of Southern California Sea Grant and the CSU Council on Ocean Affairs, Science and Technology is funding the project for the 2014 year. COAST Director Dr. Krista Kamer said that the council is allocating $3,655 to the campaign. The USC Sea Grant will be providing funding for costs such as shipping, supplies and collection—an estimated three to four thousand per collection round, Associate

Aztecs are teaming with scientists to study kelp along California coastlines for possible radiation. Photo courtesy of thinkstock.

Director Phyllis Grifman said. The total amount, however, has been left undefined to allow for adjustment. “We really want to support this and help out however we can,” Grifman said. Sample testing will be done at least three times this year.

“We are doing this because we think that this is an interesting question — not only interesting, but important — to know if there is a hazard out there,” Edwards said. “If a disaster happens on the other end of the globe, how does that affect us?”

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12 THE BACK PAGE

FEB. 17 - FEB. 19, 2014

#FICTION

To be a rock & not to roll: pt. 2

endricks looked down and discovered his hands firmly grasping leather handles, right foot buried in the gas pedal below. The Brute, crammed into Hendricks’ sidecar, grimaced at his destructively daydreaming superior. “Eh, Hen, what’ll we do to the bastard? I only had time to snatch my nunchucks. You got anything concealed?” the Brute queried. Only the flapping of Hendricks’ mane answered him. The city slipped by and the demonic duo sighted the rural landscape ahead. Hills, valleys and fields crept up on the urban outskirts; grains and greens splayed wildly. Hendricks hucked a glob of phlegm and thanked Satan he didn’t live in the country. He rode his hog along dirt roads for hours, releasing abrupt screams every 45 minutes to wake the sleepy Brute beside him, and as he did, light stole away from the 31st of December. Nearly New Year’s. A plywood hovel was perched on a pond. Hendricks let off on the throttle and rolled into his destination’s makeshift driveway. Hendricks had been waiting to meet his worthy victim. As an employee of the government’s Musical Admonition Department, it was his duty to end the lives of those who gave rock music a bad reputation via horrible covers. “Let’s rock and roll, Hendricks. Let’s deform a teenager,” said the Brute, squirming to achieve freedom from the confines of Hendricks’ sidecar. “They say the bastard’s been practicing ‘Stairway to Heaven’ daily. Just nailed the damn intro last week. That’s when the first reports trickled in. He should be right over…”

RICHARD FREELAND STAFF WRITER

The Brute trailed off, staring intently at the pond. Hendricks shut his eyes and huffed in the country air. It fueled the pumping pistons of rage within. Hendricks snapped his eyelids open, veined neck pivoting toward the pond. With sudden horror, Hendricks examined a boy ankle-deep in the water with his back to the two men. A gilded swath of flowing hair glided down from the boy’s brow. Essentially, a male Rapunzel. The youth turned and planted his feet in the pebbles, directly facing Hendricks. “Will you hear me play, then? Before you do your worst, I’d like the chance to persuade you otherwise,” the boy said, grinning boldly. One hand touched a mahogany-colored acoustic guitar, slung against his side on a leather strap. Hendricks sneered. This was just a kid after all, even if he did have a mane that rivaled his own. “Hear that, Hendricks? Says he wants to play ‘Stairway to Heaven’ for us,” the Brute said, breaking his silence, brushing aside the spell of the exotic youth. Hendricks reached into his pocket for his favorite Taser and as he did so, the boy adjusted his instrument, pick appearing between his teeth. I will massacre this boy, Hendricks thought with the same certainty with which he dismembered drummers, refused to acknowledge taxes and declared good music dead. The boy hesitated, his hands sliding over the neck of the guitar. The quiet country sounds ceased, the sun rose in symmetry with the boy’s head, his fingers started to

words

59 Greek i’s 60 Revered one 61 Historic times 62 Midterms and finals 63 Tour de France, e.g.

pluck and Hendricks fell to his knees in astonishment. That sound, he thought. I know that sound. The Brute was unperturbed. “Time to mess you up good, pretty boy. You even had the nerve to not learn the solo,” the Brute said. The boy dropped his guitar to his side and stared quixotically back at him. “Hendricks, whatever weapons you’ve … Hendricks? What are you doing?” The Brute strode uneasily toward his mentor. Hendricks was still on his knees, his face a reflection of pure ecstasy. “That … that was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard,” he mumbled, staring out to the rising sun. “That was just another ‘Stairway’ failure, Hen,” the Brute said, fidgeting uncomfortably. Hendricks stood tall and laughed. His own tangled mane dangled across his shoulders. He crossed the distance to the motorcycle, mounted and cruised away. “Hendricks! Son of a…” The Brute said. Hendricks returned to the city with bronze light on his back—the dawn of a new millennium, Jan. 1, 2000. He extended his arms like a bird as he rode, reveling in the wind, soaring all the way back to the city and his downtown apartment. Hendricks worshiped that sound tirelessly for the first 20 hours of January. “That sound,” he scribbled on a small piece of note paper. “Some hear it, and some don’t.” Three days later the police found him peacefully arranged on his bed, hands folded—no breathing, no pulse. Peaceful and garbed all in white. Mane shaved.

numbers

DOWN

ACROSS

1 Tubers rich in beta carotene 5 Wasn’t indecisive 10 Bouillabaisse, e.g. 14 Taken by mouth, as medication 15 Mrs. Gorbachev 16 Dancer-turned-spy Mata 17 Favorite Hall of Famer of the 39th U.S. president? 19 Tablet with a “mini” version 20 Tummy muscles 21 Egyptian cross with a top loop 22 Black belt activity 24 Favorite Hall of Famer of the 7th U.S. president? 27 Opposite of vain 28 “How awful!” 29 Greets with a hand gesture

30 Hook’s sidekick 31 ChapStick target 34 Forewarning 35 Visits the mall 37 Computer support person 38 “__ and Peace” 39 Spring melt 40 Acted without speaking 41 British rule in India 42 “The Bachelorette” contestant, e.g. 44 Favorite Hall of Famer of the 17th and 36th U.S. presidents? 49 Catching some z’s 50 Shed skin 51 Tackle a slope 54 Celebrity 55 Favorite Hall of Famer of the 38th U.S. president? 58 Fill-in worker

1 Discipline using mats 2 Many an Egyptian 3 Red Planet explorer 4 Shifty 5 Borneo primates 6 “Sit!” 7 10 percent church donation 8 Opposite of WNW 9 Period before the Renaissance 10 Avoid, as duty 11 Spanish finger food 12 Verse writer’s muse 13 Add a lane to, as a highway 18 Animal houses 23 Back woe 25 Paradise lost 26 Leap 27 Mother, to baby 29 Bowl over 30 Female pig 31 Bubbly citrus drink 32 Cake decorator 33 Scholar’s deg. 35 Tina Fey attribute 36 Journey to Mecca 37 Longtime Yugoslav president 39 Shade provider 40 Hazy 42 Tried to hit in paintball 43 Except if 44 What haste makes 45 Fall bloomer 46 Andean alpaca kin 47 U. of Maryland team 48 Leaves out 52 Fast food tycoon Ray 53 Vegging out 56 Weed killer 57 39-Down with cones

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

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The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Aztec. Express your concerns by emailing letters@thedailyaztec.com

thefuture

MONDAY’S BIRTHDAY (2/17/14) - You’re growing stronger this year, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Tune your healthy diet and exercise practices for optimal performance. Stay true to your dreams for profit and satisfaction. Pursue creativity and fun to new (possibly exotic) destinations. A spring renovation sets the stage for romance around the June eclipse. Play with kids and grow younger. Share the love. HOW IT WORKS: 10 is good, 1 is bad.

ARIES (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 9 - The marketplace expands. Rejuvenate an old bond and be more willing to share the load for the next two days. It’s wise to follow instructions. The more you study, the luckier you get. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is an 8 - Work and make money today and tomorrow. Look at the data from a new perspective. Clean up messes. Plan a new project. Persistence has taught you where the pitfalls lie. Put what you’ve learned to good use. GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 7 - Someone’s admiring your wisdom. You’re looking good the next two days, and it’s getting romantic (and fun). Handle routines and responsibilities. Save money and use coupons or barter instead. Your connections can amplify your impact. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is an 8 - Shop carefully, and spend mindfully. Discover a new way to earn money working from home. You’re entering a practical, domestic phase, and family takes center stage. Include some fun in the sun together. LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 9 - An important factor remains obscured. You’ve got the talent today and tomorrow; now do the homework. Gather financial documents. All of a sudden, everything starts making sense. Provide what you promised. Keep to your spending limits. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 9 - Listen to wise advice. Reconnect with old friends. Today and tomorrow are good for making money; it’s coming in, but also going. Profit comes through sharing your creative ideas. Brainstorm and invent. Finish an old project. LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 7 Fulfill new responsibilities. You’re stronger, with heart and mind in sync today and tomorrow. Put in high performance work that nobody will see. Prepare to launch. Ask a person with more experience for support. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is an 8 - The next two days are good for treasure hunting. Get a friend on board with the plan. A meeting could take you very close to your goal. Abandon procrastination for now. Discipline and faith make a winning combo. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) Today is an 8 - Your work reflects well on you. Go play and be free with friends. Keep your objectives in mind. Team projects go especially well today and tomorrow. Get into your social life, and discover new business opportunities. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 9 - You’re attracting the attention of an important person. An adventure calls you out. Face-to-face conversations lead to a career and status upgrade. It’s a good time for professional meetings and trips. Make practical agreements for love. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - Take extra care and get the job right the first time. Experience pays. Your luck’s improving. Is the money there yet? Line up necessary resources. Take care, and study options and consequences. Get the latest before publishing. PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 9 - Simplify matters. Invest in efficiency. Making your life easier grows you stronger (and more attractive). Figure the costs. Wheeling and dealing may be required. Grow your family’s resources. Make a commitment towards a vision.