04-23-2013

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APRIL 23, 2013

TUESDAY

National marijuana legislation on page 6

TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 2013

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VOLUME 99, ISSUE 105

SDSU alumni celebrate Monty Awards

campus Antonio Zaragoza Editor in Chief

San Diego State students and alumni converged at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine for the 41st annual Monty Awards last Saturday. This year’s award ceremony, hosted by Emmy-Award winning journalist Steven Luke (‘99) was titled “An Evening That is Out of This World.” The event is held annually to celebrate the achievements of Aztec alumni for their services to SDSU and to the world.

SDSU President Elliot Hirshman, who spoke at the event, reflected on the importance of the Montys and what they represent to SDSU. “It was a wonderful evening—an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our alumni and to strengthen our Aztec pride,” Hirshman said. “Sharing the achievements of our alumni creates great optimism about the future of our students and our university.”

The SDSU Alumni Association President Bill Earley spoke about the significant of recognizing Aztec achievements both on and off campus. Earley, a graduate of the class of ’86, gave a passionate speech about giving back to the university.

“I want to share six words with you; every Aztec, any amount, every year,” Earley said.

This year’s 16 recipients included San Diego County District 4 Supervisor Ron Roberts, who is credited with reaching out and developing lasting relationships with diverse local communities, as well as being an architect and former San Diego Planning Commissioner

Tasty Tuesday tempts your taste buds Donut Bar on page 4

Project Pie on page 5

San Diego State held the 41st annual Monty Awards at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine. This year, 16 alumni received the prestigious Monty.

chairman; former Alumni Association president and former Associated Students president Ed Blessing ’60; and seven members of NASA’s Mars Curiosity rover team. Director of Athletic Bands Bryan Ransom received the Distinguished University Service Award for his extensive service with the music department. Ransom, a graduate of the class of ’93, was surprised with a request for an impromptu performance after members of his elite pep band paid a surprise visit. To finish the event, the band played “Aztec Action,” followed by the SDSU fight song, to a jubilant, cheering audience.

courtesy of frank villalpando

2013 MONTY AWARD RECIPIENTS College of Arts and Letters Ronald D. Roberts College of Business Administration Catherine M. Stiefel

College of Sciences Kristian L. Brown, M.D.

College of Education Sherrill L. Amador, Ed.D.

SDSU Imperial Valley Margaret Hunter Calvin

College of Engineering Mars Curiosity rover team

Distinguished Alumni Service Award Edward W. Blessing

College of Health and Human Services Larry Banegas

Tsarnaev charged for bombings national Raquel Martin

Stephen Sondheim musical on page 3

College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts Terry L. Atkinson

Distinguished University Service Award Bryan K. Ransom

Texas fertilizer plant blast accounts for more deaths

national

Staff Writer

Nineteen-year-old Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was taken into custody after a nearly 24-hour manhunt and city lockdown Friday night.

Tsarnaev was found hiding inside of a boat in Watertown, Mass. The boat owner informed officials when he spotted blood on his tarp.

Tsarnaev’s 26-year-old brother, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, was killed Friday in a battle with police. The two Chechen refugees became prime suspects of the Boston Marathon explosions that killed three people and injured more than 180 civilians last Thursday. The FBI identified the suspicious duo leaving the scene prior to the explosions.

Tsarnaev is recovering from a bullet wound to his neck, but is conscious and responding in writing to authorities, according to CBS News.

He remains in serious condition and is being treated at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, the hospital where 11 of the Boston bombings victims remain.

There are many unanswered questions about the bombing and President Barack Obama urges people “not to rush to judgment” about their

The 19-year-old Boston bombings suspect, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, was taken into custody after being found hiding inside a boat.

motives.

“I, and I think all of the law enforcement officials, are hoping for a host of reasons the suspect survives,” Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick said during a ceremony at Fenway in honor of victims. “We have a million questions, and those questions need to be answered.”

According to U.S. officials, interrogators will question the Massachusetts college student without being read his Miranda rights. The Miranda rights, which guarantees the right

mass state police via zuma press

to remain silent and the right to an attorney, has a legal exception when the public is in immediate danger.

Tsarnaev faces serious charges for use of a weapon of mass destruction and malicious destruction of property resulting in death may mean a possible death sentence.

Investigators are still unable to identify the motives behind the Boston attack, but officials have said the older brother was resentful of the BOSTON continued on page 2

West, Texas citizens help clean up debris left from the fertilizer plant explosion that killed at least 14 people.

Dustan Reidinger Contributor

Last Wednesday’s blast at a West, Texas fertilizer plant killed at least 14 people and injured nearly 200 of whom were firefighter, according to BBC. The explosion, which occurred at approximately 7 p.m. at the West Fertilizer Co. plant, sent flames and debris into the night sky. Emergency

ron t. ennis fort worth star telegram /mct

services ammonium nitrate or anhydrous ammonia could be the causes of the explosion, but according to Waco Police Department Sgt. William Patrick Stanton, the exact cause of the blast is still unknown.

According to The Guardian, the Texas Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency fined the faculty in 2006 after a complaint of a strong smell TEXAS continued on page 2

2 | news

Volume 99, issue 105 | Tuesday, April 23, 2013 from BOSTON page 1

U.S. and had great influence on his younger brother.

In 2011, the Russian government warned the FBI that Tamerlan Tsarnaev may have been affiliated with a “radical Islam” group. However, the

from TEXAS page 1

of ammonia and after the plant failed to obtain a permit.

The explosion leveled numerous buildings around the plant and severely damaged others, including a school and nursing home.

West Mayor Tommy Muska was one of the volunteer firefighters responding to a fire at the plant before the explosion occurred.

“I’ve just never seen an explosion like that. It’s just a ball

FBI didn’t find any links to terrorist activity.

Tamerlan traveled and spent six months in Moscow, but what he did during this time is still unclear, according to the FBI. The brothers spent their early years in Chechnya, predominantly Sunni-

Muslim country, but they had been in the U.S. for more than a decade.

Tsarnaev has declined to answer bail questions and has agreed through written response to attend a probable cause hearing set for May 30.

of fire,” Muska told CNN. According to the Associated Press, of the 14 people who died in the blast, 10 were first responders.

The explosion had the strength of a small earthquake, and was heard in the town of Waxahachie about 45 miles away, according to The Associated Press.

President Barack Obama pledged his support, as well as federal resources, to help those affected by the blast.

On Friday, Obama issued

an emergency declaration authorizing the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security to alleviate the impacts of the explosion on the town.

“In a small town like West, they know that this tragedy has most likely hit every family and touched practically everyone in that town,” Texas Gov. Rick Perry said in a press conference.

SDSU celebrates 50th anniversary of Kennedy’s campus visit today

World Beat Rightwing party reclaims power in Paraguay Right-wing tobacco leader, Horacio Cartes, won Sunday’s presidential elections in Paraguay. Cartes was declared the winner with 46 percent of the votes, leaving his opponent with 37 percent of the votes from the 80 percent of the voting stations reported, according to The New York Times. His win returns political power to the Colorado Party, which governed Paraguay for six decades until 2008. Both candidates faced corruption allegations, according to The Guardian. WikiLeaks revealed the U.S. investigated Cartes for drug trafficking and contraband cigarettes from bordering countries Argentina and Brazil.

In 2000, a plane transporting marijuana and cocaine was seized by police at one of Cartes’ farms. In 1989, he went to prison for charges of fraud.

Cartes told reporters he had a “tranquil conscience” regarding the matter. Cartes also said the accusations surrounding his campaign were “attempts to smear him,” according to The New York Times.

International marathon pays respect to Boston Marathon victims The first international marathon since the Boston Marathon attacks was preceded by a 30-second moment of silence for the bombing victims. During the Virgin London Marathon runners and supporters wore black ribbons

as a tribute to those affected by the tragedy. A man with dyed blue and yellow hair and the word “Boston” written in black ink across his red face paint stood out from the crowd, according to The Guardian.

Another man wore a vest with a picture of Martin Richard, the 8-year-old who died in the bombing. Police presence increased by 40 percent and people underwent bag searches by police prior to access to the finish line. The Virgin London Marathon pledged to donate about $5 to One Fund Boston for every runner who crossed the finish line.

Mexican authorities report high-delinquency rate from US deported immigrants Tijuana’s Secretary of Public Safety Jesus Alberto Capella gave a press conference last week regarding deportation and its effect on the city of Tijuana. According to San Diego Red, about 1,400 migrants are deported to Tijuana every day, 280 of which have a criminal record. The migrants are from different regions of Mexico. El Universal reported that some arrive in Baja California with drug-trafficking contracts or with previous recommendations from cartels.

Benjamin Galvan, mayor of the similarly troubled city of Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, said almost 60 percent of deportees become criminals.

-Compiled by Staff Writer Arturo Garcia

Science Beat

The Daily Aztec published this cover photo of former president John F. Kennedy on June 6, 1963. Today is the 50th anniversary of Kennedy’s visit to the SDSU campus.

Tara Millspaugh News Editor

On June 6, 1963, The Daily Aztec released the 1963 Commencement speech with former president John F. Kennedy’s photograph on the front cover.

Kennedy visited San Diego State, then known as San

Diego State College, to speak at the commencement and receive the first honorary doctor of laws degree of any California State University campus.

SDSU will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Kennedy’s visit with a free and public event tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. It will be in the L Lot, formerly known as the Aztec Bowl, where Kennedy gave his speech 50 years ago.

victor escoto , art director

A historical perspective will be given by anthropology department chair Seth Mallios. In addition, Associated Students executive officers Rob O’Keefe, Channelle McNutt and Tom Rivera will be reenacting part of Kennedy’s speech.

Free parking will be available in Parking Structure 4.

Three more Earth-like planets discovered Three new entries have been added to NASA’s catalogue of Earth-like planets. Astrophysicist Alan Boss and his team at Carnegie Institution for Science in Washington, D.C. discovered the planets using data from NASA’s Kepler program, which searches distant solar systems for habitable planets. The planets were discovered orbiting a star called Kepler-62, measuring about 69 percent the size of our sun.

The new planets were discovered in Kepler-62’s habitable zone, which is a zone around the star where planets are capable of retaining liquid water and possibly life. Kepler-62 is approximately 1,200 light-years away from Earth.

The search for habitable planets in different solar systems may seem like a trivial pursuit considering how our current space program has only landed a human as far as the moon. However, this project may be the beginning of one of the most critical human campaigns in all of history: the colonization of new worlds.

-Compiled by Staff Writer Will Houston

Middle school students help discover a novel chemical bond A group of middle school students from the rural countryside in Dedham, Maine have aided in the discovery of a novel chemical bond. The four students first found out about the research through their participation in the Aspirnaut Science-outreach program run

by Vanderbilt University. The program focused on engaging both middle and high school students through videoconferencing. The four students from Dedham demonstrated such a keen interest in the research, they decided to volunteer in their current research of a potentially new chemical bond.

With the aid of their teacher and Aspirnaut organizers, the students proved this novel bond formed between animal tissue cells was also present in another lineage of multicellular organisms, indicating the bond to be an integral part in evolutionary history.

This discovery has given these four students the privilege of attending the Experimental Biology 2013 conference to speak about how their involvement in the Aspirnaut program has elevated them from middle school students to active scientific researchers.

GO ONLINE! www.thedailyaztec.com

entertainment | 3

Tuesday, april 23, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 105

Stephen Sondheim’s musical is clever and romantic

all the world’s a stage

David Dixon Assistant Entertainment Editor

San Diego State’s School of Theatre, Television and Film produced one of the more ambitious musical theater productions with “A Little Night Music.” This minimally staged interpretation rivals productions at The Old Globe, La Jolla Playhouse, Cygnet Theatre and dare I say, Broadway.

Taking place in Sweden, during the early 1900s, middle-aged lawyer Frederik Egerman (Rick Meads) lives with his 18-yearold wife, Anne (Kimberly Doreen Burns) and his comically anxious son from his first marriage, Henrik (Cody Walker). Complications ensue when Frederik reunites with his ex-lover, Desiree Armfeldt (Roxane Carrasco), who is clearly still attracted to him.

Even after 40 years, Stephen Sondheim’s music and lyrics, written in the style of a waltz, sound freshly inventive. Songs such as “The Glamorous Life” and “A Weekend in the Country,” showcase his unique intelligence and wit.

Hearing the music with an 18piece orchestra adds to the enchantment of the evening. Conducted by musical director Terry O’Donnell,

“Perpetual Anticipation.”

The cast is composed mostly of triple-threat performers who have to act, sing and dance. Carrasco is a hoot with her clever and occasionally risque portrayal of Desiree. If played by a lesser actress, the fictional diva could have come across as a selfish, despicable person suffering from a serious case of narcissism. However, Carrasco is so relatable and funny on stage that it doesn’t take long to warm up to her.

Of course, the big question for everybody who is familiar with “A Little Night Music” it this: How does Carrasco handle the iconic “Send in the Clowns?” The answer is that she sings it with simple heartache, making it a high emotional point of the show.

Alumnus and regional actor Meads is hilarious in his depiction of a successful man facing a mid-life crisis. He sings his big solo, “Now,” with authenticity and sly delivery.

SDSU emerita and faculty member Anne-Charlotte Harvey has masterful comedic timing as Desiree’s wise mother, Madame Armfeldt. It’s a subtle performance and Harvey delivers Hugh Wheeler’s prose brilliantly.

Regional actor, SDSU director and alumnus Brandon Joel Maier is hysterical as Desiree’s new lov-

courtesy of sdsu theatre

With a highly gifted ensemble and many unforgettable melodies, “A Little Night Music” is deeply satisfying theatrical fun. I hope Kalustian ... continue(s) to take risks in reaching for greatness next semester. the musicians can be big and grand in musical numbers such as “The Millers Son” and “Night Waltz,” but also intimate in tunes such as “You Must Meet My Wife” and

er, Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm.

From the second he appears in his first major scene, Maier provides plenty of laughs just based on his deliberately exaggerated physical

presence.

Director Paula Kalustian’s approach to “A Little Night Music” may not be as grand of a spectacle compared to previous stagings, but her vision doesn’t feel small. She makes the story so engaging and entertaining, I completely forgot this was a scaled-down rendition until after I left the

HEY! LISTEN! courtesy of lester cohen

Black Sabbath back fom the dead?

The metal legends have returned with a new single, “God is Dead?” It’s the only track released from its upcoming studio album, its first in 35 years. Though the band is without drummer Bill Ward, the signature Sabbath style of evil guitars and grooving riffs is on full display. The single also clocks in at more than eight minutes, making it a killer metal epic. Ripping bass and pounding drums give the whole song an overall gnarly feel, signifying that the darkness has returned and Black Sabbath is back.

Don Powell Theatre.

With a highly gifted ensemble and many unforgettable melodies, “A Little Night Music” is deeply satisfying theatrical fun. I hope Kalustian and other directors on

campus continue to take risks in reaching for greatness next semester.

Tickets and information about “A Little Night Music” can be found at theatre.sdsu.edu.

READ NEWSPAPERS. Because you can’t kill a fly with a rolled up iPad.

The newspaper of San Diego State University since 1913.

4 | features

Volume 99, issue 105 | Tuesday, april 23, 2013

Donut Bar adds creative flair to sweet eats tasty tuesday Laurela Balangue Staff Writer

I was running on empty for hours at work. My stomach growled, telling me it was time to eat.

All of a sudden, I heard a voice saying, “Oh my God. Donut Bar is having a buy one get one free special before 1 p.m.” It was as if angels were singing all around the office.

My co-workers and I immediately got into a car and sped off to Donut Bar, hoping to make it in time. With 20 minutes left, we got to downtown San Diego and desperately tried to find parking. Nothing. Ten minutes went by before we snatched a spot three blocks away. My heart was beating fast. We speed walked to the location, hoping a line hadn’t formed outside the door. My co-workers and I turned onto B Street, relieved to see no line. It was like logging into Blackboard and finding out you didn’t fail that one midterm. Our worries were gone. We entered the bar and inhaled the marvelous smell of fresh doughnuts. We made it.

I scanned the counter filled with beautifully glazed doughnuts. My jaw dropped when I saw several maple bacon bar doughnuts left. You know that feeling when you unexpectedly find $5 in your pocket? This was that moment, except in doughnut form.

One by one, we each ordered two doughnuts.

I’d been eyeing Donut Bar and shamelessly stalking its Facebook and Tumblr page since it opened.

I ordered the maple bacon bar, of course, and the creme brulee doughnut. Where do I start? The maple bacon had the perfect amount of bacon on top and didn’t disappoint my motto, “Too much bacon is not enough bacon.” The sweetness of the doughnut complemented the saltiness of the bacon, creating an impeccable relationship. The creme brulee glaze was perfectly caramelized. It was filled with custard that harmonized well

courtesy john agee

with the light and airy doughnut.

Last month, San Diego was graced with the presence of Donut Bar, a shop serving artisan doughnuts.

Owners Santiago Campa and Wendy Bartels brought new meaning to the classic doughnut. Their treats have never seen a glazing table and are individually handmade to ensure quality.

Before opening, Campa went in with a goal.

“If we are going to open a doughnut shop, we are going to use the best ingredients, down to the type of oil,” Campa said. “We use soybean and cottonseed oil. We don’t use animal fat in our shortening, like most doughnut shops do.”

The ingredients may be expensive to use, but the line that forms every morning outside of Donut Bar proves that it pays off. Donut Bar makes between 1,000 to 2,000 doughnuts a day.

The menu changes daily and new masterpieces make it hard to resist taking a Donut Bar trip every day. Donut Bar experiments with different flavors and creates inventive recipes. It announces what goodness

it will bring daily on the chalkboard menu and posts it every morning on its Facebook page for fans to drool about before they open.

Doughnut flavors include German chocolate cake, lemon glaze and roasted pistachio, maple bourbon, piña colada and Nutella, just to name a few.

“Everyday around 3 in the afternoon, my executive chef and I sit down and look at the comments made on our Instagram and Facebook page. We get a lot of inspiration from our feedback,” Campa said.

Donut Bar interacts with its customers and listens to what they want to see on the menu.

The smiles Campa gets from patrons are his favorite part of the job.

“I get 25 to 35 people daily from business offices. They shout like they are 7 years old when they come in,” Campa said. “The doughnuts bring out the kid in them. We all have sweet tooths, but when you see grown men and women excited for doughnuts, it makes me happy.”

Prices range from 50 cents to $3 for a doughnut, and a cup of coffee is only $1. Look out for happy hour and be sure to follow its social media sites to stay up-to-date with these artisan donuts.

“We are definitely going to be a

killer in the community,” Campa said.

For only being open for a little more than a month, Donut Bar has created quite the buzz. Look out for a lounge upstairs with free Wi-Fi in a few weeks. Donut Bar will also be extending its hours to cater to the San Diego community.

For now, Donut Bar opens Monday through Friday at 7 a.m. and on Saturday at 8 a.m. The shop closes when it sells out of donuts, which has happened as early as 11 a.m. Donut Bar is closed on Sundays, which is probably for the best because having donuts six days in a row is healthier than seven.

courtesy john agee

courtesy john agee

courtesy john agee

features | 5

Tuesday, April 23, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 105

Patrons craft own creations at Project Pie tasty tuesday Antonio Zaragoza Editor in Chief

Nestled in the heart of Hillcrest is a brilliant new pizza concept that is sure to pique the interest and tantalize the taste buds of pizza connoisseurs everywhere. Project Pie offers a new way of ordering and enjoying one of America’s favorite comfort foods.

Finding decent pizza is not the easiest thing to do these days. Unless you’re ready to go to one of the many Italian restaurants in the area and pay handsomely for a small personal pie, there aren’t many choices. Project Pie is definitely the answer to this dilemma.

But how can a pizzeria feel welcoming without the stuffiness of a full-menu restaurant and without the drain on your wallet or your time? Owner and operator James Markham had this very thought when he embarked on creating the perfect pizza joint with the simple characteristics most people look for, such as not wanting to spend too much cash or time. Markham drew his inspiration from the popular Mexican food chain Chipotle and credits its excellent branding

antonio zaragoza , editor in chief

and business model. He wondered why nobody had done the same with pizza, so Markham decided he would be the first. Project Pie was the result.

Markham pioneered the buildyour-own pizza phenomenon, starting with MOD Pizza in Se-

attle and then Pieology in Orange County. Project Pie is a culmination of all of Markham’s restaurant experiences. The first location opened in the MGM Grand in Las Vegas last October. In February, Markham successfully opened Project Pie in San Diego, which became a hit with locals and visitors. Already, there’s a steady stream of people waiting to try this new build-your-own pizza concept.

Conveniently located on the corner of 4th and University avenues, the newly opened Project Pie is the centerpiece of a colorful array of restau-

rants and eateries lining the streets of Hillcrest. Inside the restaurant it is roomy and comfortable, with large tables to accommodate several patrons and their pizzas. The decor is clean and modern, with high ceilings and clever illustrations to keep customers busy.

Large garage door-style windows slide open and allow patrons the opportunity to relax and enjoy the friendly Hillcrest neighborhood atmosphere. This eclectic pizzeria, a fantastic addition to the variety of restaurants in the area, is here to stay.

Customers are greeted with friendly smiles and hellos. The friendliness of the staff makes you feel like they’ve always been a part of the neighborhood. Hungry pizza lovers can order from a menu or build their own culinary creations. From the classic cheese pie to a white pizza topped with prosciutto, caramelized onions, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses,

Project Pie offers mouthwatering creations to choose from. The grilled chicken pizza with sliced red onions, cilantro, mozzarella, Gorgonzola and topped with barbecue sauce is a staff favorite. The menu includes tasty sides of pizza strips with cinnamon sugar Nutella and banana or classic Parmesan and garlic. Classic Caesar, mixed greens or the unique pizza salad with mixed greens, grilled chicken, feta cheese, mozzarella and balsamic dressing on warm pizza dough cap off the menu. Boylan’s fountain sodas add a classic touch to the pizza experience at this unique establishment.

Friendly employees facilitate an order line and bake pizzas in mere minutes. Project Pie is definitely a value for customers, offering build-your-own pizzas for only $7.50, with salads costing the same. Tasty food, culture, design and a great vibe make Project Pie a must-see for San Diegans.

antonio zaragoza , editor in chief

6 | opinion

Volume 99, issue 105| Tuesday, april 23, 2013

Test-and-grade-centric schooling fails students education

P

rocrastinators unite! With finals just around the corner, it’s time to open that textbook and perhaps read a chapter or two. Remember those lecture notes you meant to review before spring break? Yes, those.

It’s crunch time now, and if you’re like me, you’re starting to realize there are only a few weeks left to learn everything you’ve been putting off until now.

This cycle of “no pain, no gain”—cramming in the homestretch before the semester ends—is something students go through year after year. They typically accept it as just another part of college life, and don’t often think about what they’re missing out on in the process.

Instead of preparing students for the expectations of the post-college professional world, the structure of the school system acts like a circus, prompting students to jump through academic hoops in order to obtain a meaningless

grade.

The struggle begins long before being admitted to college. High school curricula teach students that standardized testing and SAT scores will either be the key to their success or the bane of their existence. Scoring above or below the required minimum is often the difference between attending a prestigious university and a third-rate community college.

Of course, anyone could argue college is what students make of it, and where they pursue a secondary education shouldn’t matter as long as they are dedicated and willing to learn. As a transfer student who has been on both sides of the fence, I can say it isn’t the location that dictates the quality of a curriculum. What matters is personal involvement with the subject and a willingness to learn the material. We get out of a class what we put into it.

But this gives rise to another issue. Receiving a good grade on a test or in a class doesn’t neces-

sarily reflect a true understanding of the material. Students can be great at memorization and test taking, but it doesn’t mean anything if they forget everything once the Scantron is turned in.

Working purely for a letter grade defeats the true purpose of an education, which should be to encourage students to grow into well-rounded and knowledgeable individuals.

This is where the structure of the academic system is to blame.

It focuses too much on prerequisites and transcript checklists.

Tests such as the Grammar, Spelling and Punctuation and the Writing Placement Assessment are unnecessary hurdles and wrongly punish students for failure. If a student has a bad test day, as many of us often do, he or she has to make up for it throughout the course of an entire semester. This takes up valuable schedule space for classes that would have been more beneficial. Choosing classes is often based solely on which

course or teacher will boost our GPAs rather than actual absorption of the material. Many times I’ve seen students enroll in a class simply because it’s guaranteed to be an easy “A.” Clearly this is an issue, as it drastically reduces the underlying value of the degrees students work so hard to earn.

Instead, the system should be focused on providing in-depth educational value through applied classes and internships.

In a sense, the specialized training students need to prepare for a career in their chosen fields begins in upper-division courses. This is far too long of a delay—every single course students take should be weighted by content and relevance to the major. Classes taken as “fillers” are, quite frankly, a waste of time and money. There’s a real need to have general lower-division requirements so every student graduates with a uniform base of knowledge, but there’s no reason lesson plans can’t be tailored to fit each specific area of study.

Some private universities already implement such systems and have been largely successful.

There’s no reason public universities can’t do the same. Students shouldn’t be forced to substitute and sacrifice classes they want to take in favor of those they need simply because they’re required to have them. While this can be a costly solution, I would much rather pay more for a quality education I know will be more thoroughly beneficial to me in the long run.

Students should be asking what the school can do for them in every aspect, instead of being forced to waste time and money on classes that aren’t necessarily relevant. Unfortunately, the system isn’t going to change anytime soon, but students do have the option to make the best of each course they take. It’s their responsibility to create their own learning experiences.

—Staff columnist Caitlin Johnson is a journalism junior

Legislation would leave pot regulation up to states national

M

arijuana users may soon breathe a sigh of relief as a bill meant to reduce federal prosecution is introduced.

California Republican Rep. Dana Rohrabacher is the legislator behind the bill called Respect State Marijuana Laws Act of 2013. This bill wouldn’t federally legalize the substance, but would defer marijuana regulations to individual states.

Marijuana is still listed as a Schedule I drug by the federal Controlled Substance Act, and is still illegal for sale or consumption.

However, Schedule I substances are supposed to meet the three following criteria: high potential for abuse, isn’t considered safe to use medically and lacks medical use in the U.S. California is already one of 18 states that legalized medicinal marijuana, and Colorado and Washington just passed laws making the drug legal for anyone 21 and older.

Marijuana shouldn’t be a Schedule I drug—it doesn’t even meet the criteria now in 18 states.

Marijuana is being viewed as more acceptable within society with its medicinal properties being explored and pursued for more than just a “good time.” In 2009, the American Medical Association even changed its stance on pot after 72 years in the organization’s history.

According to a report by the AMA, the organization urges “that marijuana’s status as a federal Schedule I controlled substance be reviewed with the goal of facilitating the conduct of clinical research and development of cannabinoidbased medicines.”

At this point, the federal government still considers marijuana a highly dangerous substance that should be classified with the hardest drugs and users are completely criminalized. However, there is no scientific research or study justifying the government’s current stance on the drug. To the contrary, modern marijuana research directly conflicts with the federal stance. In 2010, researchers at the University of California, San Diego Center for Medicinal Cannabis

dustin bradford /mct

There is no scientific research or study justifying the government’s current stance on the drug. To the contrary, modern marijuana research directly conflicts with the federal stance.

Research announced the findings of clinical trials, concluding that marijuana should be a “first line treatment” for patients with neuropathy. This bill would legalize the drug federally, but each state would be able to choose how to control, regulate, tax or prosecute marijuana. At the same time, those who might oppose the bill have understandable concerns.

Marijuana is viewed as dangerous for some people and comes with certain—often negative—

stigmas. It’s a big unknown that some say can cause real damage to a person’s life. People who oppose legalization in any way, may be concerned if this bill does pass and states can decide their stance.

What’s to stop legal cannabis in Colorado from leaking into states such as Kansas, where medical marijuana isn’t legal? Well, what’s stopping it now? According to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, more than 14 million Americans are

regular users, demonstrating that marijuana isn’t viewed as negatively as before. At this point, it should be more a matter of finding a compromise. For those who want marijuana, it should be a controlled substance similar to alcohol, following the lead of Colorado and Washington. For those who don’t wish to use it, that’s their prerogative. I have yet to also have anyone explain to me the huge difference between alcohol and marijuana. To me, alcohol is more harmful, causing tens of thousands of fatalities per year.

That’s something to keep in mind when considering laws that affect others, such as legislation on marijuana, abortion and gay marriage. I would just hope people would put others first in their

consideration of these important issues. If it really doesn’t affect you, should it matter that much?

This is a situation where majority rules, and for the first time, Americans are in support of marijuana.

According to a recent poll by Pew Research Center, a majority of Americans support the legalization of marijuana for the first time in 40 years. Furthermore, 60 percent of Americans say the federal government should not interfere in states where the drug is already legal, and that’s exactly what this bill ensures. We need a compromise to solve this problem, because we can’t continue the way things are. It’s time to end this argument once and for all.

—Staff columnist Sheridan Reed is a sociology junior

opinion | 7

Tuesday, april 23, 2013 | Volume 99, issue 105

Merced River protection plan doesn’t fully flow

environment

I

t’s not often I partially agree with a Republican. However, Rep. Tom McClintock is somewhat correct in decrying the Yosemite National Park Service’s Merced Wild and Scenic River Draft Comprehensive Management Plan and Environmental Impact Statement. McClintock is concerned that park officials intend to arbitrarily limit guest access, restrict commercial activities and remove historic bridges. Park officials say those actions are necessary for compliance with Congress’ designation of the Merced as a wild and scenic river. But following more than 10 years of bungling Merced River plans, McClintock can be forgiven for not having faith in the NPS. Still, he is wrong to argue that Yosemite must be available to all guests at all times, at least when it comes to the Merced River. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in 2009 for Yosemite officials to decide a maximum number of guests allowed in river-bordering areas at one time. This is because the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act protects river boundaries as far as one-quarter of a mile beyond river banks. NPS proposed a cap of 19,900 daily visitors in the eastern half of Yosemite Valley, which is equal to the current average volume. Friends of Yosemite Valley seems to agree, an important step for the NPS. The conservation group was locked in 10 years of Merced River litiga-

tion with the NPS. Anyone who’s frequented Yosemite during peak months understands the frustration experienced with high volumes of tourists in Yosemite Valley.

No one visits a national park to sit in snarled traffic, but that’s what happens when too many cars clog Yosemite Valley’s limited roads. Unable to build new roads, Yosemite officials must limit access.

Additionally, idling cars belching pollutants isn’t ideal for water quality. Park officials hoped to eliminate autos, but that plan was shelved because visitors prefer their cars to regional transit options. Something has to give.

Visitors can drive their vehicles, but officials hope to change those habits.

A plan to add more than 100 walk-in campground sites, however, is at odds with reducing congestion. Visitors used to be able to camp in their cars before park officials eliminated it. Walk-in camping sites offer a veiled continuation because parked cars accumulate while waiting for site availability. Restricting camping to only those with pre-reserved sites would eliminate congestion.

McClintock’s strongest ire seems directed at plans to reduce commercial usage. I somewhat agree, even though McClintock confuses the issue by acting as though the closures are part of one proposal. They aren’t. The only preferred activity closures Yosemite proposes are eliminating day-use horseback riding,

a Housekeeping Camp grocery store and Curry Village raft rentals. McClintock’s concern with closing snack stands, tennis courts and swimming pools are addressed in proposals Yosemite submitted to be thorough.

Yosemite uses simple, hit-andmiss methodology for determining commercial services viability in the Merced River area. Yes, raft rentals offer no Merced River protection value. Elimination, though, reduces visitor enjoyment of the river. Yosemite says rafting is allowed in the Merced River, but visitors have to bring their own rafts. However, not all visitors own rafts. Thus, Yosemite should continue renting rafts.

The raft store also rents bicycles. Biking Yosemite Valley should always be encouraged.

Not only does it reduce vehicular pollution, it’s great exercise.

I agree wholeheartedly, though, with eliminating horseback rides. I’d go further by eliminating all stock use within Yosemite. Anyone unfortunate enough to hike well-traveled, joint-use trails knows the misery of trying to avoid horse waste.

That waste will eventually run off into the Merced River. Furthermore, the County of San Diego Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures said horse waste is harmful to humans and plants. Removing horses from Yosemite improves Merced River water quality, protects the environment and enhances hiking experiences.

Much hand-wringing about Yosemite’s historic stone bridges

the orange county register 2012 /mct

has ensued. Yosemite assessed three stone bridges and retained two. The Sugar Pine Bridge was determined to impede the flow of the Merced River at flood stage.

Its removal keeps with plans to eliminate campsites in flood zones. The problem, though, is that the Sugar Pine Bridge is listed as part of a National Register historic district. McClintock protests its removal without understanding that the Wild and Scenic River Act states

a designated river must be kept in its free-flowing condition. The Sugar Pine Bridge, while treasured, must be removed.

McClintock’s voice isn’t the only one that can be heard.

Yours can be heard, too. The NPS encourages input until April 30. You can find plan details and submit your comments by visiting the NPS Yosemite website at nps.gov/yose.

—Staff columnist Mike Heral is a journalism and media studies junior

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8 | BACKPAGE

Strength of white lightning

fiction Caitlin Johnson Staff Writer

It wasn’t normal for her to be afraid of her shadow. Even the most immature people eventually grow up, and something so silly, so trivial as fearing one’s shadow isn’t held onto for long. She knew this, but she also knew they didn’t understand. How could they?

They didn’t understand because they didn’t see it. To them, her shadow was like any other, an intangible absence of light that would disperse and disappear in the darkness. If only it were so simple, she thought.

Her shadow was a demon. Not the kind of demon fantasized by the media, with fangs and horns and brightly colored scales. Her demon was dark, shapeless. It traced her every movement exactly; it conformed to her shape. It was there every time she turned around. When she ran, it followed.

During the day, she was able to keep the demon at bay. It trailed behind her, the silent enigma always on her heels. She tried to pay it no mind, tried to focus on the light of the sun as it enveloped her. But the demon was always in the back of her mind, dark little pinpricks prodding at the edges of her consciousness.

It constantly weighed her down— Pulling, tugging and threatening to snuff out the light in one foul breath.

She resisted valiantly, but there was always the lingering fear she would not be able to restrain it forever.

She had become adept at concealing the demon, pretending it was nothing more than the shadow it appeared to be. No one took notice.

No one ever suspected something so harmless could be so damaging.

She was fine with this—no reason to risk the demon latching onto those around her, dragging them into darkness and consuming them too.

It was better this way, she knew.

She had accepted her lonely fate long

ago when she became aware of the demon’s existence. It began as something small: a single doubt, a lapse in judgment, an innocent question of reality. As she grew, so too did her demon. It fed on her knowledge, a parasite that gained strength with each lingering moment of despair. It devoured her guilt and relished in her self-loathing.

Initially, she tried to fight it with positive thoughts. Bold reds and stark oranges burst like wildfire through the dense dark matter, suppressing it as happiness filled her soul and gave her strength. She would thrive in these periods, often forgetting entirely about her shadow as it retreated.

The peace never lasted long. Eventually, her methods proved insufficient. Her confidence would falter and the demon would rise and extinguish it as effortlessly as a flutter of wind to a trembling flame. Each retraction forced her further into the monster’s choking grasp. The more she struggled, the tighter its grip became. Soon the demon began to weigh upon her very soul, a black mark forever marring her once pure light.

She tried to outrun it, but now it was as much a part of her as anything else. There was nowhere to go, nowhere to hide from the blackness that continued to consume her, eating away at the few shreds of resolve she had left.

One day, it was simply too much to bear. Tired of running, she collapsed onto the ground, chest heaving as she gasped for breath. The shadow made its move swiftly, a darkness beginning in her toes and spreading painfully through her veins as it gripped her heart and constrained her limbs.

She was suffocating—certainly she wasn’t meant to die this way.

She began to think of her family and how deeply they loved her; she couldn’t bear the thought of their despair after they learned what had be-

come of her. Just another soulless body, eyes darkened by the umbra that would forever dwell within her. She would be an empty shell, a vessel wandering aimlessly across the earth until she was no more human than darkness.

“Enough,” she gasped. Her plea was a quiet whisper, nearly drowned by the squall inside threatening to tear her apart. But it strengthened the resilience within her, a spark igniting her desire to live. Her resolve building, she struggled to stand. The demon retaliated, squeezing her heart tighter as she resisted, but she was determined to break free.

Focusing all of her strength on regaining her feet beneath her, she pushed off of the ground with a surge of energy. It coursed through her body like electricity.

White lightning striking every nerve and giving her strength she had never felt before.

The demon lashed out, dark tendrils wrapping themselves tightly around her as it tried to suppress the light. Its efforts were futile. Her light burned through the shadows, and she clenched her fists as a scream tore through her lungs, matching that of the demon as it writhed in pain.

Her light erupted in a brilliant flare, tearing through the darkness as it broke free. Like wings, the light stretched out behind her, embracing her and destroying every last shred of the shadow as it disappeared into nothingness.

She could feel the blackness leave, replaced by the light that now warmed her completely. A quiet peacefulness filled her then, enriching her soul as it began to take root and blossom into something entirely new. She stepped into the light, realizing she would be OK. Whatever darkness she would face, she knew she could overcome it.

Volume 99, issue 105 | TUESday, APRIL 23, 2013

HOROSCOPE

by Nancy Black, Tribune Media Services

Today’s Birthday (4/23/13) - For the next three weeks, renew old friendships. The first six months of 2013 bring a nice financial boost, so hide away savings. Discover hidden resources. Communications go farther, and networks grow. Focus on partnership, and learn about new cultures. Network with groups that share your passion. Strengthen ties.

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 - A hero comes to your rescue when least expected. Continue to put in the effort, though. Don’t depend on others to do the work for you. Stay active, and remain open to contributions.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 7 - Two days of intense work begin. Getting it done is easier than thinking about doing it.

Avoid distractions; you’ll have time to stop and acknowledge efforts later. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and return the favor.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 9 You’ll have more time for love and relaxation.

How will you take your romance to a new level? Don’t look at what you want, but rather at what you can contribute.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today is an 8 Repetitiveness can be especially tiresome right now. Break the routine and add some wild creativity. Get outside, too. Then take care of yourself at your home sweet home with a good night’s sleep.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is an 8 - There’s still plenty of work to do, but suddenly everything starts making sense.

Continue exploring new directions in your career. You’ll be surprised by what you learn about yourself.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 8 - Your ideas are attracting attention. Cash flow improves. Pay expenses before splurging.

You’re really cooking now, and the orders flow in. Get help if needed, and stash profits.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 9 - You’re stronger, more self-confident and sensitive for the next two days. Watch out, world! Take charge of your destiny. This week should be very active and fun. Get outside and play.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is an 8 - Be sensitive to a loved one’s wishes. You’re under pressure regarding deadlines. If you can get away, it’s also a good time for treasure hunting. Notice your dreams.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 9 - Celebrate accomplishments. Your friends are your inspiration, and they provide solid support. Get out and play together, but remember your budget. Make it a potluck or go Dutch.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 6 - This phase brings lots of career action.

Take charge and manage responsibilities.

It may require discipline, determination and patience. Reward yourself later with a thought-provoking film or book.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - By now you should know how much you can spend. If you can get away for a little while, go. Watch the big picture, and plan your agenda. Then put on your rambling shoes.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 9 - Focus on finances; get organized and practical. Things are beginning to shift.

Consider an investment in your education.

Study profitable ventures. Rejuvenate your relationship. Sensuality takes front stage. ©2013, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

This Wednesday

SUDOKU

by The Mepham Group, Tribune Media Services

Difficulty Level: 2 out of 4 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.

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Across 1 Pink drink, briefly 6 Arson aftermath 9 Hutt crime lord of sci-fi 14 According to 15 Grazing area 16 Light purple 17 O’Neill drama set in Harry Hope’s saloon 20 Tailor’s target 21 Many a Beethoven sonata ender 22 Popeye’s __’ Pea 23 Jabber on and on 24 __ in November 25 Likable prez 27 More than feasts (on) 28 With 30-Across, drama based on ‘70s presidential interviews 30 See 28-Across 32 Aspiring doc’s course 33 Walked alongside one’s master 35 On the Pacific 36 Fertilizable cells 38 “Just __!”: “Be right there!”

40 Drama about Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine 45 “Friendly skies” co.

46 Greatly feared 47 Comstock Lode find 48 Fred of “My Cousin Vinny” 50 Oozed 52 With 54-Across, “Viva La Vida” rock group, and what 17-, 28-/30- and 40-Across each is?

54 See 52-Across 55 Pottery “pet” 58 Smooth transition 60 Pastoral poem 64 Invisible vibes 65 More than most 66 Wine tasting criterion 67 Quilting parties 68 Corrida cheer 69 Neuter, horsewise Down 1 Slyly spiteful 2 Irish actor Milo 3 Say what you will

/ THEDailyAztec

by Rich Norris & Joyce Lewis, Tribune Media Services

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 4 Golda of Israel 5 “The Lord of the Rings” baddie 6 Answering the penultimate exam question, say 7 Actor Connery 8 How lovers walk 9 “Jersey Girl” actress, to fans 10 Goals 11 Emulated Mt. St. Helens?

12 With __ breath: expectantly 13 Pains’ partner 18 Answering machine button 19 Journalist Roberts 24 Name, in Nîmes 26 Program file suffix 29 Not counterfeit 31 “The Good Earth” mother 32 “Nonsense!”

34 Tractor manufacturer

35 Give __: yank 37 By way of 39 Believability on the street, slangily 41 Driver’s license fig.

42 Threat words 43 Actor Snipes 44 Thought 49 “March Madness” games, informally 51 Sizing up 53 “Whip It” band 54 Like the driven snow 55 Red wine choice, for short 56 Tint 57 Wrath 59 Salon goop 61 Mommy deer 62 Initials on L’Homme fragrance 63 Took the reins