VOLUME 100, ISSUE 63
MONDAY, May 5 - WEDNESday, may 7, 2014
Get up-to-the-minute news @ thedailyaztec.com
monica linzmeier, photo editor
Air pollutant detected in East Commons | news P2
Courtesy of Eitan zur
Controversy surrounds crew coach changes
| sports P7
Monica Linzmeier, photo editor
Jenna Mackey, senior staff photographer
SDSU honors 50th anniversary of MLK’s campus speech
DOWNLOAD
THE AZTEC APP
| news P3
Aztecs look forward to Draft Day 2014
| sports P6
P4 / opinion
Four signs you’re wasting your time in college
P10 / features
New minor inspires social change
San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1913
2 NEWS
THE AZTEC • MAY 5 - 7, 2014
#EASTCOMMONSPM25
Student detects eatery air pollution ELISSE MILLER
FEATURES EDITOR The air in East Commons may fail U.S. Environmental Protection Agency pollution standards, according to student research. Public health senior Kathryn Paras has discovered a high concentration of particulate matter 2.5 in East Commons, which is a small air particle made of various chemicals. The inhalation of PM2.5 affects both the heart and lungs, and can lead to health problems such as difficulty breathing and nonfatal heart attacks. The particle is especially dangerous because of its size; it’s easy for the particle to enter the bloodstream because it’s so small. The EPA sets an air quality standard for PM2.5 at 35 micrograms per cubic meter of air. According to Paras’ findings, East Commons has an average of 132 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter of air. Paras said she doesn’t want this data to scare anyone, but simply wants to start a dialogue about the issue. “I think the best thing right now would be to gain awareness about it,” Paras said. “Get people interested in the subject, and then from there you can start talking to policymakers.” Paras discovered the high numbers while working on a research project for her air-quality course taught by Public Health Associate Professor Zohir Chowdhury. She took a machine that measures PM2.5 around campus and was shocked to see a large spike in the level of PM2.5 in East Commons instead of areas such as the trolley station or the construction site at Storm and Nasatir Hall. With such dramatic data, Paras and Chowdhury assumed there was a machine malfunction. However, Paras calibrated the equipment and repeated the study several times. All subsequent results still agreed with her initial findings. After Paras confirmed that the PM2.5 levels were indeed high in East Commons, she took her research further by identifying what specific areas in East Commons had the highest concentrations. She found the area right between Daphne’s and Panda Express had the highest concentration, and the seating area in the back had the lowest.
East Commons is a popular on-campus dining spot. A public health senior’s study found chemical particles in the building. MONICA LINZMEIER, PHOTO EDITOR
“We always works closely with SDSU’s She also found the PM2.5 concentration is Environmental Health and Safety the highest at about 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., right Department,” Melchior said. before and during the lunch rush. These Paras presented her research at this results have led Paras and Chowdhury to year’s SDSU Student Research Symposium believe that the main source of PM2.5 in where she won the Outstanding Compact East Commons is the burning of fuels for Scholar Researcher Award for highest cooking. scoring poster San Diego State presentation. Dining Services Director Paul Paras said her Melchior said this biggest question “The best thing right is new information at this point is if now would be to gain to him, but he’d there’s a national awareness about it.” like to see further trend of high - Kathryn Paras development of this concentrations data by comparing of PM2.5 in food it to other food courts. The current court research and research on it is definitively determining the source of the slim, but what’s been published has PM2.5 in East Commons. He said that generally supported Paras’ research thus safety is the utmost concern of Dining far. Paras has already measured PM2.5 in Services. Plaza Bonita Mall, and her initial findings
show a spike in PM2.5 in its food court as well. Despite these results, Paras’ research is still only in its initial stages. PM2.5 can be made up of a variety of chemicals, and Chowdhury is afraid that the PM2.5 inside East Commons may be made of harmful black carbon, also known as soot. “If black carbon levels are high, that’s really concerning,” Chowdhury said. “We want to see if there is soot emission from the combustion of the fuel … that would pinpoint directly that it (the cause of the PM2.5) is the fuel and cooking activity, for sure.” Chowdhury recommends looking into better ventilation and filtration systems to improve the air quality in East Commons. As for the future of her research, Paras plans to continue measuring the PM2.5 and soot levels in food courts across San Diego.
I don’t know how I ever lived without the Aztec app!” Scan. Download. Enjoy.
NEWS
MAY 5 - 7, 2014 • THE AZTEC
#MLK
3
SDSU commemorates MLK speech CAMILLE LOZANO
SENIOR STAFF WRITER Willie Horton Jr. was a student at San Diego State in 1964 when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke in what is now the campus’ open air theater. The civil rights activist has been an inspiration to Horton since he was 12, when he first saw him speak in church. Horton was invited to share his experiences with King on Wednesday for the half-century anniversary celebration of King’s visit to the SDSU campus. “Dr. King always gave me a beacon of hope in my darkest hours,” Horton said. “He was true in mortar. He knew how to say what others only knew how to think.” The event began at 3:30 p.m. in the courtyard of the theater and included speeches from the university’s historian Seth Mallios, President Elliot Hirshman and others. Associated Students, the SDSU Alumni Association and Cal Coast Credit Union sponsored the event. The unveiling of a permanent plaque commemorating King’s SDSU appearance in 1964 also took place. The plaque includes a photo of King speaking at SDSU and the most famous quote from his campus speech: “We must live together as brothers or we will perish together as fools.” It will be installed by the entrance of the theater as the largest plaque on campus. “Martin Luther King Jr. met hate with love, ignorance with brilliance and apathy with passion,” Mallios said. “That is why we
President Elliot Hirshman (left) and Seth Mallios (right) speak at the anniversary celebration. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke on campus in 1964.
WESLEY BEIGHTS, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
are here in celebration. It is the triumph of perseverance, of humanity and justice.” SDSU students who won an essay contest honoring the activist were also invited to speak. The contest required students to write about one of three themes related to King’s speech, “Remaining Awake Through a Great Revolution.” The themes were racial or economic justice, why peace deserves public attention and what responsibilities we hold for our fellow citizens. Liberal studies freshman Jessica Ahern, shared her winning essay with the audience, speaking of educational inequalities. “I really thought it was important to voice my opinion,” Ahern said. “This celebration
allows us to look back at history, see our mistakes and learn how to better ourselves for the future.” Nine-year-old Jeremiah Carr concluded the event, passionately reciting King’s most famous speech, “I Have a Dream,” from memory. Carr said it took him around 6 months to memorize the speech. Mallios said locating memorabilia of King’s 1964 visit was the biggest challenge in preparing for the celebration. The search took more than a year, as nothing was found in the university archives. San Diego’s CBS News 8 unearthed a 16-millimeter reel of film that contained three different excerpts from the 1964
SDSU speech in their own archives. Mallios also said some newspaper articles from U-T San Diego and the receipt for the rental podium King used were found. He is still looking for the original speech transcript. “These events reinforce our commitment,” Chief Diversity Officer Aaron Bruce said of the anniversary celebration and the Diversity Awards Ceremony that followed. “Although we celebrate diversity every day in a variety of different ways, it’s important to celebrate the accomplishments and milestones that make SDSU great, and that’s the people,” Bruce said.
#MAYDAYSDSU
Aztecs walk out for May Day fee protest MICHELLE MONROY STAFF WRITER
JESSICA SANTOS STAFF WRITER
A walkout ended in San Diego State President Elliot Hirshman’s office as more than 200 students marched from Scripps Cottage to Montezuma Hall to protest the Student Success Fee on Friday.
The protest was part of a larger effort by other California State Universities, University of California campuses and community colleges. Students collaborated to create events across campuses and protest the issues faced at their own schools. May Day originated in the late 19th century as a labor protest. It was revitalized in 2006 as a day to protest
COMING 5/8/14...
THE
FUN& GAMES
legislations passed against undocumented workers. “We saw this as both an opportunity to protest the fee but also to really have a day of educational politicizing opportunity to talk about the connections between these different struggles that people are facing with different difficulties,” Bo Elder, a rhetoric and writing graduate student and one of the protestors, said.
Students representing different campus communities such as Queer Student Union, Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán and the Association of Chicana Activists were in attendance. Many professors were among the spectators in the audience at SDSU. SEE WALKOUT, P11
ISSUE
4 OPINION
THE AZTEC • MAY 5 - 7, 2014
#gohome
Four signs you’re wasting your time at college Sara Tiano
Staff columnist
Congratulations Aztecs, you’ve made it to college! That’s an accomplishment not everybody reaches, and you should be proud of yourself for getting this far. Now for the bad news: a lot of you probably shouldn’t be here. At least not yet, that is. Sure, based on societal norms you’re supposed to come to college right after high school, but that isn’t the only path, nor is it necessarily the best option for everyone. While the traditional plan works for some, many of you aren’t getting the most out of your (very expensive) college education. If any of the following categories sound like you, it may be time to reevaluate your plan and your current enrollment status.
1. You’re a freshman or a sophomore.
To tell you straight up, lower division students are wasting their money here. And if you’re an out-of-state freshman or sophomore, this is doubly true for you. Don’t let a negative stigma deceive you: community college is where everyone should start. General education classes
suck everywhere. You’re not going to have a better COMM 101 experience at a four-year university than you would at a community college. In fact, you may even prefer the smaller classroom experience that a community college offers, and you’ll also save a ridiculous amount of money. San Diego Mesa College’s per-unit cost is $46. For a 15-unit semester you’re looking at $690 for tuition. San Diego State’s estimated 2014 tuition per semester is $3,443. Transferring to SDSU after completing the first two years at a community college could save a student more than $11,000. That’s a big difference considering the total average student debt is around $30,000.
2. You’re still looking for your passion in life.
You’re looking in the wrong place. Sure, in the past college has been seen as a time of self-exploration, activism and broadening horizons. Back then, going to college was also practically free. If you haven’t noticed, universities these days aren’t about learning for learning’s sake, they’re about getting a job. If you’re not explicitly working toward a specific career path, you’re wasting your time and money in college.
3. You don’t know what you want to be when you grow up.
I don’t blame you. It’s ridiculous that society expects us to figure out our entire life’s destiny by 18 or 19. But don’t fall victim to this façade and waste your money pretending you know what you want when you may just need more time deciding. Trying to figure out what you want to do from inside a classroom doesn’t make much sense. The only way to really learn about jobs is to have them. Go out for entry-level positions in industries you think you might be interested in, and test the waters before you commit to a career path. Every job you have helps you learn more about what you do and don’t want in your future career. Come back to school when you have a better idea of what you want that future career to look like.
4. You’re more focused on doing you than doing school.
If your motto is “C’s get degrees,” you’re more dedicated to your social calendar than your class syllabus or you’re constantly skipping class to go to every music festival this season, you shouldn’t be here. It’s totally normal and wonderful to be in a time of life where you want to branch out, have a great time and just plain enjoy your newfound freedom. For that to be your priority when you’re in school inevitably means you’re not maximizing the potential of your education. With how much you’re spending to be here, you should really try to get the most out of it. If this is you (and be honest, Aztecs), take a break from school and ride out this young, wild and free phase. Get a job that pays the bills and in your time off, have all the fun you want. Spend your party years making a little money instead of wasting it on classes you don’t even want to go to. If you fit one of the descriptions on this list, it doesn’t mean college isn’t right for you, it just means college isn’t right for you right now. Take some time during the summer to evaluate where you’re at. If you’re not getting the most out of your college experience, don’t come back in the fall. Apply for a leave of absence, do what you need to do and save your tuition dollars for a time when you can fully appreciate their worth.
who’swho 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 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 Adam Zabel Accounting & Contracts Michael Bratt Kim Le Public Relations Kelly Hillock Christina Koral _____________________________________ General Manager Jay Harn Graphics Specialist Christopher Blakemore _____________________________________
what’swhat
ADVERTISING 619.594.6977 advertising@thedailyaztec.com editorial inquiries 619.594.4190 editor@thedailyaztec.com Print The Aztec publishes 5,000 copies, twice a week on Monday & Thursday. Web Our website, thedailyaztec.com, publishes up-to-the-minute content & breaking news. Mobile Our mobile app, The Aztec App, is available for the iPhone and Android. _____________________________________
where’swhere
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
ock thinkst y of rtes cou
write us tips@thedailyaztec.com _____________________________________ The Aztec has been San Diego State University’s independent student newspaper since 1913.
OPINION
MAY 5 - 7, 2014 • THE AZTEC
#groupwork
5
Group presentations need to go kc stanfield Staff columnist
As a student, I hate receiving assignments. They’re annoying, time-absorbing activities that ruin sleep schedules—because I always procrastinate (and really, who doesn’t?). With that being said, I recognize their usefulness. School assignments help gauge and improve our understanding in other ways besides taking a test. Professors have many different forms of assignments, presumably so the sadistic pleasure they get from assigning them doesn’t get stale. There are the classic essays and miscellaneous tasks such as worksheets and occasional videos to watch, but all of these pale in comparison to the dreaded group presentation. Group presentations are the unholy love-children of class presentations and group projects, combining the worst aspects of both. Granted, presentations are stressful and sweaty, but that’s not why they’re bad, unless you forget deodorant. Presentations are a giant waste of class time. It’s immensely inefficient to dedicate five minutes of class to talk about something loosely related to the subject. If the topic really mattered, the professor would be the one lecturing. When any class has presentations, I wonder if the teacher is just killing time for a class that can’t quite fill a semester. What really makes presentations deplorable is how boring they are. I’d rather watch “Birdemic: Shock and Terror” by myself than listen to my classmates ramble on about something they don’t know or care about just to get a B-. We’re in college and I still catch people reading from PowerPoint slides and notecards. Watching presentations is the equivalent of slowly peeling off a bandage, except the manufacturer accidently used superglue as the adhesive. On the other hand, group projects are even worse. There’s usually at least one social loafer, which is the psychological term for slacker, in the group. It’s fine that some students don’t care about their own grades, but it’s unacceptable to let that mentality affect those who pride themselves in earning good grades. The classmates that do minimal to no work are worse than deadweight. It may not be unintentional, but they are still taking advantage of others’ hard work. Even if luck is on your side and you don’t get a group
COURTESY OF THINKSTOCK
parasite, there’s always the issue of actually getting everyone to meet up. You could always assign sections for members to complete on their own time, but the pieced-together project will resemble Frankenstein’s monster. Sometimes this is the only option, though, since coordinating schedules is often futile with college students as busy as they are these days. Settling for meeting up with most of the group is certainly plausible, but it will often reinforce social loafing. Group presentations also have serious problem with Murphy’s Law. Everything that can go wrong does. A group member might get a flat tire on the day of the presentation, but a majority of problems stem from technology. Most presentations rely on technology—probably because a poster board would make it look as if it came straight from fourth grade. Whether the Prezi software is unable to play
embedded YouTube videos or the convoluted sound system that’s in every classroom refuses to work, technology will do its best to ruin your presentation. Group presentations attempt to sharpen public speaking skills and the ability to work well with others. Unfortunately, all the negative elements add up, resulting in an assignment in which the cons far exceed the pros. I would like to advocate for the removal of all group presentations from academia, but that’s unrealistic. Despite all their flaws, they’re going to stick around. Therefore, the responsibility to make these abominations bearable rests on the students’ shoulders. So make sure everyone in your group pulls their weight and sounds semi-interested with their topic. Once that happens, we’ll be able to remain sane throughout this ordeal.
#studentproblems
Unrealistic expectations make stress the new norm Kalah siegel Staff columnist
College should be educational, enjoyable and some of your best years. That’s why it’s so sad to see students breaking under the various pressures in their lives. Expectations are only rising for college graduates, and those expectations directly result in a steep increase in stress for current students. Stress about the future Upon graduation we’re expected to have good grades, take part in extracurricular activities, hold a leadership positions and have work experience in our field of interest. It’s ridiculous, but it’s becoming the minimum requirement even to be considered for a job. Some students aren’t even sure what they want out of a career, even as upper-division students. Yet the school still encourages us to finish undergraduate degrees in four years. That’s
a lot to have together in just four years, even for the most accomplished people. Stress about school A stress management website reported that the 2013 edition of the National College Health Assessment found “almost half of all undergraduate students surveyed felt trauma or overwhelmed in regard to their academic responsibilities.” At some point at San Diego State, you might hear one of your professors say “college is a full-time job,” or “school is your first priority.” Students can’t afford that luxury anymore, but teachers don’t take that into consideration when they plan their syllabi. Cumulative finals, midterms, significant group projects and weekly assignments are assigned to us as if going to school is the only thing we have going on in our lives. It’s not, but professors keep planning their semesters on that fantasy. Stress about money On top of all that, many students are forced to have at least a part-time job to help cover the rising costs of tuition and
housing. Working cuts into free time that could be spent taking care of the things that cause stress. Financial aid doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface for all of the people who still need financial assistance to make it through school. Extracurriculars = extra stress As previously mentioned, it’s the rule, not the exception, to be involved on campus. I have always advocated for being involved with extracurriculars, but there’s a fine line between getting involved to meet people and have a better college experience because of it, and getting involved to get ahead. Get involved for the right reasons. Joining campus organizations is one of the best decisions I’ve made as an undergrad. When I realized I was only involved with certain organizations in order to put them on my resume, I dropped them because I was involved for reasons that weren’t genuine. Being involved with organizations you aren’t passionate about isn’t worth your time because they’ll only lead to stress, not a sense of reward. Never sacrifice the “you
time,” or doing the things that make you happy, because that will keep you sane. Stress from relationships This may not be something that you lose sleep over or physically feel stressed about, but friends have a huge influence on how we spend our time. The people you surround yourself with can be the difference of you studying for your midterm or taking a spontaneous trip to Mexico on a Tuesday night. Intimate relationships can also take their toll. The drama that can erupt from the college dating scene is unnecessary. Don’t waste your time on pointless people. You know what you want and need deep down—don’t settle for the stress of anything less. College students are under more pressure than our parents and professors’ generation could ever imagine. We have stress coming at us from every direction, but that doesn’t mean we have to let it overtake us. Stand up to stress and remember that everything will work out one way or another in the end.
6 SPORTS
THE AZTEC • MAY 5 - 7, 2014
#aztecfb
Aztecs optimistic about Draft Day Ryan Posner STAFF WRITER
From Thursday to Saturday, May 8-10, the NFL will be holding its seven-round frenzy of a draft. A couple members of the San Diego State football team hope to be a part of this frenzy, and remain hopeful a team will pick them up either during or after the draft. Two of those players include strong safety Nat Berhe and fullback Chad Young. One player who will likely not be drafted this year is running back Adam Muema, who after leaving the NFL Scouting Combine this February and citing that God had told him to, decided to skip his Pro Day. “When he was here he was a hard worker, he always came in with a smile on his face,” Young said. “Don’t really know how all that unfolded, it’s tough to comment on. A lot of us have reached out to him.” While Young was not selected to participate in the NFL Scouting Combine, Berhe got the special opportunity to go to Indianapolis and showcase his abilities. “I had a good experience at the combine. I didn’t post as good of a 40 (yard dash) as I wanted to, but it was nice to be included in that.” Berhe said. As noted, Berhe did not put up a good time in the 40-yard dash at the Combine, posting a 4.71. However, he was able to improve on it immensely by posting a 4.55 on his pro day. “I think it was a true test of perseverance,” Berhe said. “I just had to keep fighting to make sure that I was going to put up better numbers.”
Column
SDSU safety Nat Berhe (left) is projected as a 4th or 5th round pick.
monica linzmeir, photo editor
A little more emphasis was placed on Young’s pro day because he wasn’t at the Combine. He is hoping that the scouts are impressed by the tapes of his drills sent out to every NFL team. Berhe is projected to go in the 4th-5th round range, while Young is not projected to get drafted, but can sign with any team concluding the draft. Though both players have received the traditional calls from NFL teams just checking in with them, getting things like medical records. “It’s good to get those calls,” Berhe said. “It means you are doing something right.” Young realizes his chances of getting drafted are slim, but being the 8th ranked fullback prospect according to CBS Sports, he will most likely sign with a team and hope to make the roster. “I’m absolutely ready for it, I have been preparing for it the whole time,” Young said. “I came into SDSU as a walk on so I’m used to earning my spot on a team.”
Both players do not actually plan on watching the whole draft though, saying it is too agonizing to watch all seven rounds, and plan on just spending time with their family and hoping the phone rings. Being a mid-round projection, Berhe knows that phone call is coming soon, and does not know how he will react when he gets it. “The feeling I am going to get when I get that phone call is going to be indescribable,” Berhe said. One thing that does come with being an NFL rookie is the hazing from the veteran players which can range from picking up a dinner tab, to shaving your head. Young is not too worried about all that though. “Well I don’t have any hair on my head to shave, so I think I might be exempt from that hazing,” Young said. Young and Berhe are about to enter new chapters of their careers, but will miss their time at SDSU and credit their teammates
and coaches for getting them where they are today. “There’s a little more camaraderie with college football,” Young said. “You know, you practice with these guys, then you go home and they’re your roommates’. You get really close.” As far as their favorite memory as an Aztec, both players declared that it was winning the Mountain West Conference in 2012. “Being out there with your teammates knowing you are champions, it doesn’t get much better than that,” Berhe said. Getting prepared for the draft is a long grueling process that started shortly after SDSU’s bowl game victory last December. A huge influence to Berhe through the process has been Allen Bradford, a linebacker for the New York Giants, while Young credits Ignition, an athletics performance group located in Cincinnati, for helping him get prepared with NFL players Luke Kuechley and John Connor. “Almost all of the stuff you do to prepare for the draft is working out, it can get grueling, but they do a great job at Ignition,” Young said. There are 14 players from SDSU active in the NFL right now, and it’s Berhe’s goal to show everybody that players coming out of his alma mater are the real deal. “I definitely want to show people what kind of players SDSU can produce,” Berhe said. Berhe is the highest projected Aztec to go in the draft but other players who hope to hear their name called include wide receiver Colin Lockett, offensive linemen Bryce Quigley and wide reciever Tim Vizzi.
#strasburg
Former Aztec Strasburg struggling in MLB CAMERON SALCE staff writer
Not too long ago Stephen Strasburg was deemed to be the next great pitcher in Major League Baseball. On June 9, 2009, Strasburg was drafted No. 1 overall by the Washington Nationals and was called the most-hyped
pick in draft history by ESPN. He was also given the biggest contract for a No. 1 overall pick signing for $15.1 million. None of this happened by mistake. Strasburg deserved all the hype he received after the stellar college career he had at San Diego State. In his last home start on May 8, 2009, he threw a no-hitter against Air Force,
further cementing his case to be the no. 1 pick in the MLB draft that year. Success followed Strasburg to MLB when he was brought up to the Nationals on June 8, 2010. In his major league pitching debut he set a new team record for strikeouts by striking out 14 batters and not walking a single batter. Strasburg also picked up the
win in his much-anticipated major league debut. Later on in that season, after only his third major league start, it was revealed that he had a torn ulnar collateral ligament, requiring Tommy John surgery and 12 to 18 months of rehabilitation. See Strasburg, P7
Love us? Hate us?
What do YOU think of The Daily Aztec? Let us know!
facebook.com/dailyaztec
SPORTS
MAY 5 - 7, 2014 • THE AZTEC
#Aztecmensrowing
7
Questions linger in crew coach change Luke henning
Assistant news editor
Terence Chin staff writer
San Diego State’s men’s rowing club team head coach Doug Perez will not return to the team next year. Perez believes he was not asked back to the volunteer coaching position because he refused to raise money for Mayor Kevin Faulconer’s campaign. SDSU Executive Director of Associated Students Christina Brown was not legally allowed to comment on the circumstances of Perez’s departure because of his status as a volunteer. “We cannot discuss details relating to a volunteer coach’s appointment and or the decision to end an appointment,” SDSU Chief Communications Officer Greg Block said. Perez said he was officially asked to leave because of a group of minor code violations. In December, Perez said he received an email from Brown asking him if he could get some of his donors to make a contribution to Faulconer’s campaign. Perez, who has secured almost $200,000 for the rowing team through donations, declined to help Brown and said he advised her that asking for such a favor was out of
place given their working relationship. “Everything changed after that,” Perez said. A few months later Perez was told he would no longer be coaching the rowing team. “They told me that it wasn’t up to debate that I wouldn’t be coming back as the rowing coach,” Perez said. “They asked me if I would accept a non-coaching role and asked if I would be comfortable doing anything else for the team, so I declined.” Perez was a crew team member at University of California, Berkeley where he later received a Ph.D. in political science. He became an assistant professor in criminal justice at SDSU in 1978 and coached the SDSU men’s crew team from 1978 to 1985. Perez left the school to coach semi-pro football and later became the coach for the U.S. national men’s crew team. Perez returned to SDSU as a volunteer coach for the Men’s Crew Team in 2012. During Perez’s tenure at SDSU, the rowing team increased from 13 to 60 members and overhauled their fundraising program. Olympic rower and SDSU alumnus Aaron Pollock, who rowed with the men’s crew team in 1989 and 1990—including one season with Perez as his coach—said Perez was instrumental in his selection for the 1992 U.S. Olympic Rowing Team.
Strasburg: injury impact Continued from P6
WHIP which are both worse than his career averages of a 3.02 ERA and 1.1 WHIP. At one point this season, Strasburg had a 6.0 ERA that ranked him fourth worst in the MLB. Its not just Strasburg who is struggling, but his team is as well, which makes his poor performance a more glaring issue. The Nationals have only made the playoffs once since Strasburg came to Washinton Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg was drafted No. 1 town in 2009. overall in 2009. john j. kim/chicago tribune/mct Strasburg came into the MLB as one of the most Strasburg has never been the same since hyped pitching prospects in league history, his injury and many people have pointed however so far his career has not lived up to his mechanics as a long-term issue that to the hype. Strasburg was supposed to might affect his career moving forward. Even come to the Nationals to dominate and before his surgery, scouts were concerned win multiple Cy Young awards. Instead, with how he pitched. The sequence of his first four years in the league have been Strasburg’s delivery places a great deal of overshadowed by injuries and being shut stress on his arm, placing him at greater risk down in the midst of the best season the of elbow and shoulder injuries. Nationals have ever had. This injury changed Strasburg’s career Strasburg was supposed to be a can’tand the way everyone views him now. miss, sure-fire Hall-of-Famer. He was Since this injury, Strasburg has been on a supposed to be the best pitcher in baseball close watch by the Nationals to make sure by now. Yet his numbers and his career so it does not happen again. At the beginning far are pointing toward him being the most of the 2012 season they put an inning limit overhyped player in the history of the MLB on Strasburg and said he could only pitch draft and, dare I say, a bust. a certain amount of innings that season. It’s too early to tell for now because he They even shut him down in the middle of is only in his fifth season, and it looks like a playoff race, making this inning limit even he has many years ahead of him unless more controversial. the injury bug keeps biting. And this is all This season there is no limit on him, but perhaps an overreaction considering he is it has been hard to recognize the budding second in the National League in strikeouts. superstar that Strasburg once was. His But if Strasburg wants to live up to his Hall numbers this year are the worst in his of Fame hype he came into the league with, career; he is 2-2 with a 3.6 ERA and a 1.38 he is going to have to do a lot more than that.
San Diego State’s men’s rowing club practices at Mission Bay Aquatic Center. Coach Doug Perez was not retained as the men’s rowing club team coach. Courtesy of eitan zur
Since his time as an Olympian, Pollock has worked with the crew team as a mentor. “After reviewing all of the available information I don’t share the opinion that there was retaliation by Christina Brown and anyone else at the university, yet,” Pollock said. “I’m disappointed that he won’t be back next year.” Some current crew team members such as international security and conflict resolution sophomore Ryan Williams said rowing team members are worried that the controversy will reflect negatively on the team. “This is between Perez and the school,” Williams said. “We’re trying to keep this away from us so we can better move forward.” Ultimately Perez said he was saddened to be leaving the team.
“My life was changed profoundly by crew,” Perez said. “It’s so much harder work than the classroom. What’s important is the hard work, the discipline, and not to make excuses in life.” Though there is still confusion about Perez’s departure many of the current men’s crew team members remain optimistic. “We still don’t know what exactly led to his dismissal, but it has brought us all closer together as a team,” environmental science sophomore and crew team member Matt Stewart said. “We’re just trying to focus on the Fall and get ready for another great season, regardless who comes back as our coach.” Editor in Chief Leonardo Castaneda also contributed to this report.
8 ENTERTAINMENT
THE AZTEC • MAY 5 - 7, 2014
#aztecart
Art event showcases printmaking ryo miyauchi
contrast in value made the works pop out. Each detail also looked meticulously worked over, all finished with a fine quality. Last week from April 28 to May 1, San The more abstract portraits stuck out as Diego State University’s printmaking and personal favorites of, as they presented an lithography art students held a week-long imaginative subject. art show in classroom 416 C. The doors Making prints is time-consuming, remained open throughout the week from but the rewards are fabulous as you can 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., inviting students to walk make copies of each over and over again, in and check out art student Michael the prints made Simonetti said. For by students. The the show, Simonetti event also hosted a submitted a colored Making prints is timereception as a small print of armadillos, consuming, but the celebration on the an animal whose rewards are fabulous final day. scaled outer shell as you can make For the show, comes out as a copies of each over several students great pattern on a and over again. from the woodcut print. printmaking and On the last day, lithography classes starting at 6 p.m., chose one or two of their the show held a best prints from the semester. Overall there reception where students were welcome to was no specific theme, and the chosen grab some snacks and drinks while taking prints featured diverse subjects from a look at the art one last time. Some of animals to portraits by each respective the students who submitted their works artist. Apart from lithographs, students were also present at the reception, and printed works used different techniques they talked among one another about the such as woodcuts, drypoint and aquatint particular themes and ideas they explored etching. for their work. Though a small event, the The details for each work made for week-long printmaking show ended on a stunning works of art. Because most good note with some insight gained about prints used black ink on white, the high the art pieces and the artists behind them. senior staff writer
SDSU lithography students display their latest prints in campus art show.
ryo miyauchi, senior staff writer
#summertheater
Aztec alumni star in summer theater shows david dixon
entertainment editor There is a lot of promising theater that will be running in San Diego throughout the next few months. Lucky for Aztecs, a good amount of these shows will feature San Diego State students, staff and alumni. Here is a sampling of productions you might want to be on the lookout for during the rest of May and summer.
MAY: “Mud Blue Sky” Produced by the Moxie Theatre, “Mud Blue Sky” is a comedy that follows three flight attendants and a wild evening they have with a young pot dealer. Starring SDSU alumna Melissa Fernandes and featuring scenic design from another aluma, Maria Bane, the play will likely be hilarious and much deeper than one might expect. “Happy Days” Sledgehammer at the 10th Avenue Theatre and Arts Centre will give San Diegans the rare opportunity to see a Samuel Beckett play, “Happy Days.” Starring real-life couple Dana Hooley and SDSU alumnus Francis Thumm. It’s about a husband and wife living in a post-apocalyptic world. Be prepared for a strange and potentially fascinating evening. “Twelfth Night” The Old Globe Theatre and the Intrepid Shakespeare Company are not the only places to watch a William Shakespeare play in San Diego. The Lamb’s Players
SDSU alumna Melissa Fernandes (center) is a star of Moxie Theatre’s production of a potentially hit comedy, “Mud Blue Sky.” courtesy of daren scott
Theatre in Coronado is producing the classic comedy “Twelfth Night” with a 1940s Hotel Del Coronado twist. The cast includes SDSU alumnus Cris O’Bryon and Christy Yael-Cox, who is also the coartistic director of Intrepid.
JUNE: “Milvotchkee, Visconsin” The Mo’olelo Performing Arts Company at the 10th Avenue Theatre is known for not shying away from sensitive subject matter. “Milvotchkee, Visconsin” focuses on Molly, a woman who is suffering from schizophrenia. Instead of being a tragedy, Laura Jacqmin’s script is considered to be a humorous examination of this mental disorder. Former SDSU costume designer Jeannie Galioto will
be making the outfits for this play and it is co-starring SDSU alumna, Olivia Espinosa.
JULY: “Romance/Romance” This is a romantic musical comedy directed by SDSU professor Rick Simas. The North Coast Repertory Theatre production involves two separate love stories taking place in Vienna and the Hamptons. This work might make for a great date night. “Les Miserables” It’s great timing to have the Lamb’s Players Theatre produce “Les Miserables” a little more than a year after the movie became one of the most successful big screen musicals. SDSU alumni Kelsey
Venter, Brandon Sherman, Krysten Hafso-Koppman and SDSU faculty member Brandon Joel Maier will all be featured in what will likely be a bona fide musical hit. “The Full Monty” Personally, this is one of my favorite musicals, and it’s not because nudity is involved. The adaptation of the Academy Award nominated film is about what happens when a group of unemployed men in Buffalo, New York, agree to perform together in order to make some cash. Co-starring SDSU alumna Melissa Fernandes, the show mixes both hilarious and tender moments with humorously profane lyrics. The New Village Arts Theatre production should do the dramedy justice.
ENTERTAINMENT 9
MAY 5 - 7, 2014 • THE AZTEC
#SPIDEY2
Love and villians clash in sequel ALEK SANCHEZ STAFF WRITER
Another summer of superheroes begins as the second installment of the “The Amazing Spider-Man” series swings its way into theaters. Andrew Garfield reprises his iteration as the quick-witted Peter Parker, with the lovable Emma Stone as Gwen Stacy by his side. “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” opens up by shedding more light on the tragic disappearance of Peter’s parents, Mary (Embeth Davidtz) and Richard Parker (Campbell Scott), and further adds to the mystery of Oscorp Industries. As the film jumps back to the present day, viewers are thrust into the daily adventures of the web-slinger. Watching the film in 3-D was a treat, as moviegoers become fully immersed into a living New York City. We are reintroduced to Gwen Stacy, Peter’s high-school love and the source of his internal conflict for much of the movie. Peter is constantly haunted by the image of her late father, Capt. Stacy (Dennis Leary). He promised to stay away from his daughter, for her safety. The internal conflict between being with Gwen and protecting her fuels most of the story along the way, leading to a nail-biting climax. From Gwen to Peter’s Aunt May (Sally Field), the story does a great job in tying emotions together within the action, which is something other superhero movies fail to nail down. A huge part of the emotional success is Garfield’s portrayal of Peter. His wise-cracking quips and witty banter help build a great chemistry between his friends and family, but also his foes. And that brings us to the main villain: an introverted, forgettable nobody engineer working for Oscorp. No one remembers Max Dillon (Jamie Foxx), but it isn’t until he suffers an unfortunate accident that left him as a shockingly powerful electromagnetic being, that all eyes were on
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Rating: Director: Marc Webb
(4/5)
Spiderman meets his latest foe, Electro, played by Jamie Foxx in the latest “Spider-Man” movie. COURTESY OF NIKO TAVERNISE/COLUMBIA PICTURES/MCT
him. Hell-bent on killing Spider-Man, the now-dubbed Electro teams up with Harry Osborn (Dane DeHaan), as they have a common vendetta against Spider-Man. While the two work to set up the supervillain group, the Sinister Six, for the next installment, the unbalance of screen time and development leaves a lot to be desired. Again, a Spider-Man film falls into the pit of including too many villains and leaves the audience occasionally underwhelmed. If anything, Peter and Gwen’s relationship stands at the forefront of this film, and his enemies only serve to distract him from that. Electro has a lot of potential here, but his insufficient screen time hinders any
real development. Foxx does a great job in conveying the awkwardness of Max, but turns on the intensity as the killer Electro. DeHaan pulls off this iteration of Harry/ Green Goblin not just as a brooding and neglected heir to Oscorp with father issues, but also as Peter’s longtime, yet estranged, childhood friend. Unfortunately, he serves more as a subplot and nagging loose end rather than a full on supervillain gunning for Spider-Man’s head. Even Aleksei Sytsevich, aka Rhino (Paul Giamatti) barely deserves any mention as he only functions as a prologue and epilogue for the film with his over-campy mechsuit. By the end of the movie the action had
me on the edge of my seat, and for the first time since “50/50,” almost to tears. As a fantasy-filled action-adventure, “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” is full of high-energy thrills, witty banter and heartwarming moments. The story may be weaker than some, and the execution may have been slightly off, but maybe we’re just used to a higher standard of comic-book superhero movies in this day and age. Though it does not necessarily reach Marvel standards (as it is a Sony picture), “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” is a worthy addition to any superhero movie collection. Kick back, relax and watch the web-slinger go to work—you won’t be disappointed.
#DAVIDJ
David J, Sky Parade perform at The Hideout HAYLEY SPENCE STAFF WRITER
The Hideout hosted David J, along with Sky Parade and The Midnight Pine on April 28. The small and intimate venue made an ideal Monday night out, if you didn’t mind staying out late. The Midnight Pine started it all off with their simple, yet beautiful folk music that fit the bar as much as it fit the people sitting in it. The band was simple: a singer, a guitarist and a tambourine player, with a little piano in some of their songs. There wasn’t anything loud or crazy about their songs, they were just low-key, which was a great way to start the night and gear the audience up for the more rock-sounding genre of David J. Following The Midnight Pine was Sky Parade, with their soft rock sound. This band seemed the most flustered, as if they were just killing time, and it cast a bad mood in the bar. There was a lot of chatter of
disappointment and discontent among the die-hard David J fans for having to wait until almost midnight to hear the band play. Watching David J mingle through the crowd of his fans was also a little disappointing. One would think someone with such a dedicated fanbase would be more welcoming to their following. David J seemed in a foul mood the entire night, and gave the atmosphere an uncomfortable feel. Everything settled down once the music began to play. People listened for a few songs but the bar then began to empty out, and only the most faithful stayed behind to hear David J perform. He had an almost Elvis Presley sound, that was fun and made you want to move your feet as he sang. After a night of the venue changing from one place to another, then waiting around almost the entire night, it was obvious that fans weren’t as enthusiastic as they would have been, which put a downer on the feel and the atmosphere of the bar. Nonetheless, The Hideout was a perfect venue for an intimate performance by David J.
David J’s performance stared off slow, but the rocker finished strong. COURTESTY OF MILA REYNAUD
10 FEATURES
THE AZTEC • MAY 5 - 7, 2014
#SOCIALCHANGE
New minor inspires social change SENIOR STAFF WRITER In a society stricken with inequalities and apathy, the ability to be culturally aware and empathetic is not only a marketable skill, but also necessary for societal progress. The counseling and social change minor at San Diego State provides students the skills to be knowledgeable, thoughtful agents of change. The counseling and social change minor is offered through the Department of Counseling and School Psychology and provides students the tools to seek change in diverse social contexts. It is an undergraduate, interdisciplinary 18-unit minor that encompasses social justice and diversity. There are four core classes with additional classes selected from other departments such as Women Studies, Africana Studies or Sociology. The curriculum focuses on human relationships, and pushes students to cause social change in their communities. The CSC minor was developed with the goal of training students to become superstars in their graduate programs, adviser and CSC Director Dr. Sarah Kahn said. Students aren’t usually exposed to counseling theory and practice until the graduate level, causing the CSC minor to be unique. In fact, the CSC program appears to be the only program in the
country to combine counseling and socio-cultural issues. The program was developed to embody a social justice perspective, giving students the tools to be respectful and responsive of all individuals. The program teaches students to be multi-cultural agents of change, according to psychology junior and CSC minor Philip Salas. This program isn’t limited to students pursuing psychology or counseling; it also teaches students of all fields to think critically and globally about their interpersonal relationships. It poses a curriculum about human relationships. “(Someone’s) truth might be different from yours, but they are still equal to you,” psychology junior and CSC peer adviser Deserea Bockness said. The program was founded by graduate students to provide undergraduate students the skills they need to better the field of counseling. “We’ve found, as a field, is that we
have a lot to learn when it comes to our ability to provide treatment to folks who are diverse,” Kahn said. “When we look at statistics, we find that folks who are in some kind of marginalized race or social class or gender, our effectiveness is really low. We have a lot of work to do in terms of raising our ability to be culturally competent and respectful and responsive. That’s at the heart of this minor, is starting that quest.” Despite its initial focus on the psychology professions, the T KS N CSC program has I TH OF attracted students from COURTESY all departments. It is a minor open to all majors, and its broad curriculum has evolved to benefit all students, not just those pursuing counseling. Previously a businessman, Salas noted the difficulties he faced in his international work were simply cultural differences. Whatever one’s future profession may be, being multi-culturally O CK
KELLY HILLOCK
competent enhances interpersonal skills. “In any business, you’re always dealing with people,” Salas said. It’s apparent the CSC program has inspired and impacted its students. Both Bockness and Salas said if the minor were to become a major on campus, they would stay an additional year or two to get a degree in CSC. “I mean, it’s my favorite thing I’ve ever experienced,” Bockness said. A recently reinstated program, the CSC minor at SDSU has left its mark as an important asset to the university as a whole. Between the passion of the students and faculty and the important awareness it gives its students, the CSC minor offers a unique educational experience. “It’s such a privilege to work with students who are so driven and so passionate and so engaged,” Kahn said. “I just feel lucky that this is my job.” CSC capitalizes on the importance of enacting social change and inspiring its students to seek sensitivity. Perhaps most importantly, its curriculum prepares students to better understand others they come in contact with and how to leave their community a better place. “I’ve always been some sort of activist myself, but this program gave me the tools and the guidance to do it correctly,” Salas said.
#AZTECPRIDE
Author Liz Colter accepts her award at the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future ceremony. Colter is already working on a second novel. PHOTO FROM YOUTUBE
Aztec author wins sci-fi award for fantasy novel AMBER MCKINNEY CONTRIBUTOR
Nearly every writer has a special place where they go to focus on the words set to spew from their minds. San Diego State alumna Liz Colter takes three days off from work and goes into a writer’s hibernation. It’s there in her home office, from midmorning to early afternoon, where she dreams up fantasy worlds for her stories. One of her stories which has recently won her the “L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future” award. “I got the phone call when I was at work and I took the call outside,” Colter said. “I walked back in to work grinning and everybody hugged me because, of course, they all knew about it.”
The award included a trip to Hollywood, a weeklong seminar with The New York Times best-selling authors and resources to support her publishing. “It’s an amazing opportunity for the newer writers who are, otherwise, always competing against professional writers,” Colter said. But Colter wasn’t always a writer—she originally went to SDSU for its sports medicine program. After she received her master’s degree, Colter went on to pursue a variety of jobs, from dispatching to training draft horses. She said her wide range of experience is an asset to her writing. “I think the more you experience the broader base you have for writing,” Colter said. “It’s easy for me to write about horses, which are used a lot in fantasy.”
Colter comes from a family of writers dating back to her grandfather, who wrote fiction in the late 1800’s. “It’s funny because I found out about the writers in my family after I started writing,” Colter said. “There’s my aunt, my brother who writes non-fiction and my mom recently decided to start writing, too.” Colter is the only person in her family to veer off into fantasy fiction. She fell in love with the genre after reading “The Hobbit” and watching “Star Trek” at age 10. For her stories, Colter creates new worlds. “Usually I get a feeling for the tone I want to write and from that, the setting emerges and the characters develop,” Colter said. “Occasionally I’ll have a flash of an image, usually at night before I go to sleep, and it’s like a picture of the character I want to use.”
She remembers her first writing experience fondly. “It was 1999 and I just got my first computer. I sat down with the intent of writing the kind of novel that I would want to read,” Colter said. “I wrote 10,000 words the first week. It just started pouring out.” She’s already begun on her next novel, which is about a gambler who loses a big bet. Colter is anticipating it will be the start of a trilogy. With two novels already published and another on the way, Colter sees no end in sight for her love of writing. “Writing is definitely an evolution and it’s such a long continuum that hopefully you just keep getting better and better,” Colter said. “I’d love to really develop my skill with novels and see it take off.”
NEWS
MAY 5 - 7, 2014 • THE AZTEC
11
Students walked out of class Friday as part of the May Day protests. The crowd marched to the president’s office, where students held signs and chalked messages.
WESLEY BEIGHTS, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
May Day: President’s office CONTINUED FROM P3
Department of Chicano and Chicana Studies lecturer Gregorio Pantoja spoke at the rally and said protesters have statewide support. “They’re not alone. This isn’t a small onetime event,” Pantoja said. “They are the voice of future students and what they’re doing is right.” Students rallied around Scripps Pond at noon to hear fellow students speak against the fee. Graduate student Mary Marchan addressed her concern for the growing costs of education. “As a student I don’t feel privileged knowing that I will spend most of my life paying off student loans while the majority of the university administration make over $200,000 a year,” Marchan said.
Protesters found the president’s doors Elder also spoke at the protest, mentioning the all-encompassing nature locked, and campus officials and police oversaw the more than 150 students as they of the SDSU May Day protest. “May Day is the day we demand the crowded into the hall and wrote messages in chalk outside the things we need office. According right now: rolling to the university’s back fees, the end regulations, of deportations, the chalking is only right of all working “May Day is the day we allowed on Open people to organize demand the things we Air Theater and unionize need right now.” Walkway with and the end of permission. discrimination - Bo Elder Some protesters of women and divided and left LGBTQ folk,” to San Diego City Elder said. After the College to join speakers concluded, students walked to another May Day event. About 60 students the president’s office carrying signs and stayed outside Hirshman’s office for about chanting “the students united will never be an hour and a half. divided.” Associate Vice President of Student
Services Reginald Blaylock told students they were free to respectfully exercise their voices. “The university belongs to the students and we want to welcome them,” Blaylock said. “We want to make sure they understand the responsibilities associated with being in university spaces and we let them have time and space to talk, share and plan their ideas.” SDSU Chief Communications Officer Greg Block said the university has already addressed the concerns of the protesters. “There was a month-long process for the student success fee; we had 39 public forums where 64 percent of students who participated said they were in favor of a fee,” Block said. “So are their voices less important than the voices of the students who are screaming and yelling that they don’t want a fee? I would say no.”
CLASSIFIEDS
KEEP READING DURING THE SUMMER! y We publish ever other Monday!
June 23 July 7 July 21 August 4 August 18
• www.thedailyaztec.com
help wanted Swim School Staff Wanted. Swimming Instructors $12-19/hr. Front Desk $10/hr. www.murraycallanswimschools.com (858)273-7946 ______________________________________ Trillion year old history of the Colorado River. Looking for someone to edit and put into a book. Call ARK 619-634-1676.
services For late-night or emergency math tutoring, call MathDBase at (714) 618-3624.
rooms for rent Room for rent in older home. Private entrance, Private bath.$650/mo+shared utilities.$500 security deposit. Street parking only. No pets/ drugs. 619-582-2222. The Daily Aztec does not endorse or support and has no affiliation with the products or services offered in the Classifieds section.
589-9900 • www.aplusreview.com
Exam Cram Reviews
101 102 119 120 201 202 301 302 323
FINALS
Our entire purpose is to prepare and perform a “perfect” exam-review, whereby our students get the highest grades in the class. PERIOD. We dumb down the material and spoon feed it to you. Together we work through every possible problem and every possible concept. Discover for yourself why our lead instructor has taught more SDSU students than anyone in the history of SDSU. Join us and be happy! Reserve PLEASE for finals.
12 THE BACK PAGE
the aztec • may 5 - 7, 2014
#fiction
The everlasting moment
I
t was one of those days I hoped would never end.She was like a feather, awaiting the gust of wind that would inevitably blow her away. But still, I held on to that hope. One look from her, one touch, was all it took to quiet unnecessary, binding thoughts of tomorrow. I let that all go with her.
We were lying on a picnic blanket together in the middle of a park. The sun kissed our faces and the slightest breeze cooled our burning hearts. Others strolled by, but the expanse of grass we lay upon felt more like a cloud far away from here. I didn’t hear the other people or anything else besides her, except her heartbeat and a faint rustle of leaves in the distance. This day was different than the thousands of days I’d lived through. For once, I genuinely questioned the limits of my existence and knew that this day could very well be my last day on this planet. Just like any other day, but this one felt different. I felt both ingrained to the hard earth and subject to the whimsy of the entire universe. My head rested in the crevice of her tummy right below her rib cage. It ascended and descended with her every breath, and each awaiting movement brought lightness and reassurance to my billowing mind. How ridiculous it seems
kara fergason staff writer
to love someone’s lungs and diaphragm, but I did. I smiled at this thought. “What’s so funny?” There’s no way she could have seen my smile, but she felt it. “I love you.” She momentarily stopped breathing, but her heart took flight. I hadn’t even intended to tell her yet, but then again, none of this was planned, and if I died tomorrow at last, I’d die without regrets of never uttering those words. “I know you do … I know … I...” she paused, clutching my hand, and then bringing my head to lay next to hers. I anticipated the same hazy gaze, the same look into someplace else I couldn’t be. I knew this look by heart. But this time, her eyes held none of that glossy, transitory disconnection. They were unmistakably clear, remarkably honest. Her tears tasted salty and sweet. I kissed them away, though I knew I couldn’t extinguish the pain she held in her heart. Rather, I embraced it; I allowed it to breathe and release itself, ready to listen to her most profound truth, the only truth she hadn’t yet shared. “I’m not from here. I’ve traveled long roads to reach this place, and I know I’ve only been here a short while, but this is the longest I’ve ever stayed. I didn’t have a home. The places I inhabited before, I left before anyone or anything could leave me. And then I arrived here, and my whole existence changed. I stopped feeling like a floating entity. I still feared that you’d disappear. But something within me told me that you wouldn’t.” Any remaining tears that had trickled to her chin dissolved in my hands. She looked at me so intensely that I could see
words
Across 1 Minor error 6 Catcall 10 Vishnu incarnation 14 “This Old House” carpenter Norm 15 Like many a shoppe 16 Color of Death’s dart, in “Venus and Adonis” 17 What an angry mermaid might do? 20 Not many 21 Pop’s bro 22 Hard to figure out 23 “Baseball Tonight” airer 25 Not good 26 What an angry Santa might do? 30 Frozen dessert franchise 34 Part of NCAA: Abbr. 35 Don’t exist
65 __’ Pea 66 Actress Meg 67 Skilled
36 Pong developer 37 Supermodel Cheryl 39 1860s govt. for four years 40 Still in bed 41 Accustom 42 Western Wyoming county 44 __-Foy, Quebec 45 Tabula __: blank slate 46 What an angry Humpty Dumpty might do? 48 Opportunity, metaphorically 50 Backside 51 Verdict challenge 54 Spot for a facial 56 Pool float 59 What an angry witch might do? 62 Undecided 63 Smallest Great Lake by volume 64 Where subs are assembled
Down 1 Internet connectivity frustrations 2 Peek-__ 3 Titan who gave fire to humans 4 Least risky 5 “Unbelievable” techno-funk band 6 Philosopher Locke 7 Gas alternative: Abbr. 8 Former “Tonight Show” announcer Hall 9 Be strongly pervaded with 10 Keep apprised of one’s activities, as a superior 11 Assist with a crime 12 Chamonix peak 13 Garcia of “Ocean’s Eleven” 18 Pitch-changing pro 19 Brian who produced or co-produced several Talking Heads albums 24 Terrible twos, one hopes 25 Chips-to-be 26 Fan’s opposite 27 Turner memoir 28 Parish head 29 First stage 31 String-pulling game 32 Ogre 33 “Holy mackerel!” 36 Lennox of the Eurythmics 38 Elementary level 43 Book club leader for 15 years 46 One following a course 47 Worked for 49 Big ape 51 Times to call, in ads 52 Field machine 53 Flammable pile 54 Branch of Islam 55 Hammer part 57 Lose one’s cool 58 Quiz 60 Do one’s best 61 Aquafresh tube letters
her for the vulnerable, raw woman she was. “You are my home. I’ve wandered aimlessly; my heart has led me astray. It led me here, to you.” Her words lit a fire in me. Stricken with momentary disbelief, I wondered how something so real could feel like a dream. “Then stay. Please stay. I am here, and I’m not going anywhere if it means I can’t go with you. We can live in love, and I will do everything I can to help you feel safe here.” I kissed her, wishing she knew just how much I cared. We were reaching nearer to each other, but something was in the way, something I couldn’t grasp. She looked at me again, piercing me with words she hadn’t yet said. “I can’t stay. I’ve already stayed longer than I thought I physically could. My body and soul are here with you, but at any given moment, my soul will try to leave. And when it does, I’m only halfway here. I’ve never experienced this because I’ve never made it this far in one place. I didn’t know what it means to love, to actually want to stay.” She clutched me hard in hopes of engraving her home, once and for all. We made love until the sun disappeared, until the only lights guiding us were that of stars, the moon, and each other’s eyes. We stayed there together, in that pull between here and a different world neither of us knew of. We kept our eyes open, willing our souls to unite and become so intertwined that hers couldn’t possibly break free. At some point my eyes drifted shut, and even in the midst of my dreams, I swore I could still feel her warmth engulfing mine. But man believes what he wants to believe, and I am no exception.
numbers
HOW TO PLAY: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box contains every digit 1 to 9. Difficulty Level:
3/4
ALL SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.THEDAILYAZTEC.COM CROSSWORDS, SUDOKU, AND HOROSCOPES COURTESY OF TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC., ©2014.
disclaimer
The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Aztec. Express your concerns by emailing letters@thedailyaztec.com
De-Stress Fest
YOGA &
MEDITATION Aztec Recreation Center Tuesday, May 6
1st Session: 1-1:50 pm 2nd Session 2-2:50 pm
Free for SDSU students and Aztec Recreation members. 619-594-7529 No late class entry allowed. arc.sdsu.edu BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
thefuture
your Birthday (5/5/14) - Strategize and organize community partnerships this year, for maximum impact. Review and revise creative projects to launch after May 20. Communications, research and travel engage you through July, when family matters take the spotlight. Secrets get revealed in autumn, and a turning point arises with a partnership. HOW IT WORKS: 10 is good, 1 is bad.
Aries (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 7 - Make time to play with family and friends today and tomorrow. Your fun is contagious. Add small luxuries to your routine. Creating a work of beauty fulfills a hidden urge. Cook a gourmet meal to incite the senses. Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 7 - Increase the comfort level at home. Cleaning house could lead to the discovery of a treasure. Offer encouragement to someone with homework (or accept it if it’s you). Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 7 Study the angles today and tomorrow. Plan, organize and review the data. Make sure an important person understands. You’re exceptionally clever with words. A unique opportunity may arise, with an unexpected bonus. Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 6 - Today and tomorrow can be extra productive. Spend a little to keep things flowing, but keep to the budget. Take care of family. Your morale gets a boost. Ask authorities about an increase in your benefits, and get promises in writing. Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 6 - Your confidence and energy overflow today and tomorrow. It could get innovative. Handle your chores, and then develop a hot idea. Feed off small successes. If something fails, call in reinforcements or try a new angle. Advice from an elder increases your bottom line. Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 6 - Thoughtful planning and coordination over the next two days produces powerful results. Follow through on details. Learn new skills. Write marketing copy, promotions, or project descriptions. Aim to inspire. Handle old tasks to free time for new ones. Travel later. Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 6 - A new assignment will be fun. Talk it over with friends. Revise your creative plan. Follow your heart and your curiosity. People have nice things to say about you. Listen to their encouragement more than any negative thoughts. Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 7 - The spotlight’s on you. Friends offer good advice. Keep sarcastic comments to yourself. Diplomacy works much better today. Expect trouble with scheduling for the next two days. Handle old business first. Help adversaries communicate. Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) Today is a 6 - Today and tomorrow favor study and research. Set long-range goals and work towards your own inspiring future. Tell the truth and demand the same back. Talk about what you love, and hear less complaining from others. It’s contagious. Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) Today is a 7 - Review shared financial arrangements today and tomorrow. Confer with family. Reassure someone who needs it. Friends help you advance. Send packages and documents. Sign papers. File tax information and keep insurance current. Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 6 - Share the load with a partner today and tomorrow. Talk is cheap. Put your back into it. Divergent ideas come together in collaboration. You’re growing more interested in another’s situation. Choose how best to participate. Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 6 - There’s plenty to keep you busy today and tomorrow. Family comes first. Chores and practical work needs attention. Get farther than expected. Expand in the direction of least resistance. Serve others with generosity.