09-06-2017

W IE V E E PR SU L Wednesday, L L IS Sept. 6 - Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017 AWeekly B T CIA Print Edition O E FO SP

Vol. 104, Issue 4 www.thedailyaztec.com

San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

Trump administration to end DACA The decision, what it means for students

by Jocelyn Moran MUNDO AZTECA EDITOR

Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced President Trump’s decision to end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals on Sept. 5 in a press conference, affecting roughly 800,000 “dreamers.”

Since 2012, DACA has enabled immigrants — under certain requirements — who were brought to the U.S. illegally by their parents to obtain a college degree and work in the U.S. without the fear of deportation.

“Ending the previous administration’s disrespect for the legislation process is an important first step,” Sessions said. “All immigration policies should serve the interest of the people of the United States, lawful immigrant and native born alike.”

Sessions repeatedly called it a “wind-down process,” giving Congress a six-month window to come up with new legislation to replace it.

With the plan, Trump will stop considering new applications for DACA, but individuals currently under DACA will be able to renew their two-year period of legal status until Oct. 5 before it fully expires on March 5, 2018.

Sessions said hundreds of thousands of Americans have been denied jobs because of DACA, further allowing “those same illegal immigrants to take those jobs.”

“We can not admit everyone who would like to come here,” he said. “It’s just that simple.

That would be an open borders policy, and American people have rightly rejected that.”

San Diego State administrators addressed a letter to Trump on Sept. 3 urging Trump to keep DACA. “Our students, regardless of their immigration status, are valued members of our SEE EFFECTS OF DACA DECISION PAGE 2

“They don’t know who we are as people. They need to get more educated to what we actually do and how we contribute to this society. We are not just here to take from the government. We are actually here to contribute to the country.”

-Hector Zermeño, public relations senior

Open parties with alcoholic beverages wherzze non-members are given unrestricted access are similarly prohibited, though fraternities are free to provide their over-21 memberswith alcohol at events at their chapter houses.

The fraternity was also found SEE PHI GAMMA DELTA, PAGE 3

SEE DACA PROTESTS, PAGE 2

Photo by Kelly Smiley

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Will SDSU’s young roster hold it back? Columnists Kyle Saunders and Tony Zarate debate.

An update on each 2017 SDSU alum searching for an NFL roster spot, including 2016 captains Donnel Pumphrey, Damontae Kazee and Calvin Munson.

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Phi Gamma Delta fraternity on probation

by Will Fritz NEWS EDITOR

The San Diego State chapter of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity was placed on probation through June 2018, according to documents obtained by The Daily Aztec.

The fraternity, also known as FIJI, received the punishment after being found in violation of

regulations pertaining to alcohol at off-campus fraternity events.

On-campus organizations are prohibited from serving hard liquor at events off-campus unless held at a licensed establishment with professional bartenders, and are also barred from permitting alcohol consumption by anyone under the age of 21 or who is obviously intoxicated.

by Jocelyn Moran and David Santillan

San Diego State students and members of the San Diego community came together to protest the end of the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals on Sept. 5, 2017 at the steps of the San Diego City and County Administration Building.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced Trump’s decision to end the Obama-era program DACA on Tuesday, Sept. 5. in a press conference.

The decision prompted protests and rallies across the country, including San Diego, where San Diego State students protested for their rights and protection.

SDSU, being close to the Mexican border, houses a large population of Hispanic students, some of whom are under the umbrella of DACA. Before the official White House announcement on Tuesday, public relations senior Hector Manuel Zermeño said he’d been feeling anxious all weekend, unsure what the end of the program would signify for his future.

“My biggest fear was, am I going to get deported before I can finish my degree,” he said.

In the announcement, Sessions explained there would be a six-month phasing out period, during which Congress is expected to draft a new plan.

If Congress doesn’t come up with new legislation by March 2018, roughly 800,000 undocumented students and workers could be subject to deportation.

SDSU administrators sent out an email to ensure the SDSU community that they are committed to “providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty and staff.”

CSU Chancellor Timothy White issued a letter to the CSU community, in which he states

Senior running back Rashaad Penny outruns the entire UC Davis defense on his way to a touchdown during SDSU’s win over UCD on September 2, 2017. The 38-17 win was the Aztecs’ first home game and season opener, and the first game played in San Diego Stadium since its renaming on September 1.

An extensive preview and preditction of each SDSU game during the 2017 season... with a few surprise predictions.

Protests erupt after announcement

FOLLOW US /dailyaztec @TheDailyAztec

NEW FOOD OPTIONS

A.S. EXECUTIVES

DRAGSTRAVAGANZA

A number of new dining options are available to students beginning this semester.

Student leaders look ahead to the rest of the school year.

Event brings glitter, dancing and self-love to Montezuma hall.

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News

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The Daily Aztec

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Will Fritz, news@thedailyaztec.com

University offers new dining options

by Maya Carter STAFF WRITER

The beginning of the fall 2017 semester comes with new dining options for SDSU students and faculty on campus.

The first of these is Dickey’s Barbecue Pit which is projected to open in mid-September and is available to students with meal plan.

Paul Melchior, SDSU dining services director, said Dickey’s would complement the campus’ portfolio of dining options well.

“We noticed that we didn’t have a place on campus that offered barbecue, but often times when University Towers Kitchen or The Garden had barbecue nights it was very popular,” Melchior said.

Melchior said that several things are taken into account when selecting a new vendor to provide food for students on campus.

“There’s a process that we always go through when there’s an open space,” Melchior said.

Melchior said that it is important that vendors make sense for students financially.

“We’ve collectively been on campus for awhile so we know pretty well what students like and what their price points will allow,” said Melchior. “(Bringing Subway to campus) was actually the result of a student survey.”

Melchior said that they also must meet sanitation and health code requirements as well as have business viability.

“Shake Smart was actually started by students on campus,” Melchior said. “They presented their business plan and we helped them with one cart and now they’re nationwide.”

Melchior said that the weekly Farmer’s Market is also a way to test vendors.

“Olive Oil’s location in the West End Plaza is the result of their success at the farmer’s market,” he said.

“We also look to see if they have healthy options available, like vegan and vegetarian,” Melchior said. “Instead of creating one restaurant that is totally vegan, we choose restaurants that have options for students.”

Josie Truong, a business finance junior, said that she

wishes there were more healthy fast food options on campus.

“I liked Daphne’s a lot because I felt like their food was healthy and different,” Truong said.

“Now they’ve replaced it with a barbecue place which is almost the opposite end of the spectrum.”

Truong also said that she is excited for the new dining options coming to South Campus Plaza.

“I’m excited for the poke place because that’s my favorite food and it’s a unique option for Asian food on campus,” Truong said.

“I’ve also been to Trader Joe’s and I thought it was really nice and had a lot of great options.”

In an effort to keep produce on campus healthy and fresh, “Campus Grown” is a new program that expands the products that are grown on campus. It has expanded from two to four growing locations over the summer.

“The most significant location is on the patio outside of the garden where we have twenty aeroponic towers where that grow 880 heads of fresh lettuce every three weeks,” Melchior said. “We don’t use pesticides, artificial fertilizer and there are no negative effects on the environment.”

Advertising junior Victoria Newton said that she’s excited to hear about the fact that products are grown here on campus.

“I’m really excited to learn more about it,” Newton said. “I try to eat as healthy as possible when I’m on campus and knowing that a lot of the produce is fresh and without chemicals is amazing.”

Another new feature offered

by SDSU Dining Services this semester is the option for commuter students to purchase a meal plan.

“There are three plans and the more you commit to up front, the bigger discount you get,” Melchior said. “All plans are designed to have a declining balance and are without restriction.”

While Eureka and Trader Joe’s are the only vendors in South Campus Plaza that are currently open, the rest of the restaurants are projected to be open by January 2018. None of the vendors in South Campus Plaza are available to students via meal plan.

Photo by Jocelyn Moran

Woman shows support for immigrants with DACA status at Waterfront Park in Downtown San Diego Sept. 5.

DACA protests:

continued from page 1 he was “deeply disappointed” by Trump’s decision to end DACA. White said enrollment, tuition and financial aid for students will not be impacted by the end of DACA.

norant as to what DACA really is.

“They don’t know who we are as people,” Zermeño said. “They need to get more educated to what we actually do and how we contribute to this society. We are not just here to take from the government. We are actually here to contribute to the country.”

During the rally, SDSU student Ana Hernandez spoke to the crowd, telling her per-

“...let me express my personal disappointment toward this action that will have such a profoundly negative impact on our nation, our state, our university and so many of our colleagues, students and friends.

– CSU Chancellor Timothy White in a letter to students following the DACA decision

“Again, let me express my personal disappointment toward this action that will have such a profoundly negative impact on our nation, our state, our university and so many of our colleagues, students and friends,” the letter read.

Zermeño, who arrived to the U.S. from Mexico when he was 12, said that potentially being deported would mean starting over.

“I don’t know anything (about)

sonal experience with DACA. “As an immigrant community, we have had a lot of victories, and ending DACA will not be a defeat but rather an opportunity to have our voices heard,” she said.

Community members, from various ethnic and racial backgrounds, were seen standing peacefully and holding signs while Hernandez spoke. She noted this when she said “look at all the beautiful peo-

“As an immigrant community, we have had a lot of victories, and ending DACA will not be a defeat but rather an opportunity to have our voices heard – Ana Hernandez,

Photo by Petey Dyer

Economics senior Kevin Woods shops at the new Trader Joe’s in South Campus Plaza

being a functioning adult in that society,” Zermeño said.

SDSU College Republicans issued a statement shortly after the announcement expressing their support for Trump’s decision to end DACA. “As a program that incentivizes illegal immigration to the United States and allows for an indefinite residence without documentation, we cannot stand idly by while our borders remain compromised,” the statement read.

Zermeño said he felt members of the College Republicans are ig-

ple who came out to support us.”

SDSU social work junior Amaris Tenorio was one of the supporters who showed up to the rally.

Although Tenorio isn’t a DACA recipient, she is a member of the Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx de Aztlán (M.E.Ch.A), an organization that empowers Chicanx students through unity and political empowerment.

“Students that are DACA recipients deserve to live a life here freely, filled with happiness and education,” Tenorio said. “We’re not here to cause any harm,

Effects of DACA decision:

continued from page 1 Roush, SDSU Vice President of University Affairs Eric Rivera and University Senate Chair Marcie Bober-Michel were all listed as co-authors of the letter.

SDSU College Republicans released a statement on their Twitter account on Sept. 5 contradicting SDSU administrators’ letter to Trump.

“The College Republicans of San Diego State University stand in support (of) President Trump’s decision to end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals,” the statement read. “As a program that incentivizes illegal immigration to the United States and allows for an indefinite residence without documentation, we cannot stand idly by while our borders remain compromised.”

The official website of the Department of Homeland Security lists requirements in order to be eligible to apply for DACA including the following: coming to the US before reaching the age of 16, continuous residence in the US from June 2007 to now and not being convicted of a felony or significant misdemeanor.

The California State University released information on Aug. 30 assuring students with DACA status that their enrollment, tuition and financial aid would not be affected. However, there was no guarantee that they would be able to continue to work for their universities.

we’re here to live a better life.”

Hernandez ended her speech with a mantra for all undocumented students by saying, “stand strong, stay resilient, keep positive, and remember, (legal status) does not define us, DACA does not define us, Dream Act does not define us. We’re still undocumented and unapologetic.”

“We will overcome this fight in unity,” Hernandez said

News

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Will Fritz, news@thedailyaztec.com

Phi Gamma Delta placed on probation: continued from page 1

Photo by Joe Kendall

Hayden Willis, A.S. vice president of finance, debates Krystal Nzeadibe for his position during the spring 2017 A.S. elections

A.S. executives discuss goals for new school

by Chris Bremer SENIOR STAFF WRITER

As San Diego State ushers in the fall semester, the newly appointed officers of the university’s Associated Students look to make wakes in their tenure, implementing new campaigns and programs while revamping the old.

These programs range from increasing student advocacy to fighting food insecurity, and are being implemented with the hope that more awareness will be brought to the student government’s capabilities. The newly elected officers believe better understanding of the A.S. could mean more students utilizing their resources.

“Sitting down with a student in one hour won’t cover all the aspects of ways students could get involved with A.S.,” said Chimezie Ebiriekwe, A.S. president.

“The constant communication that we all have with administrators, a lot of students should be able to use as a resource. We can make the process easier. We can get student concerns to the desks of those administrators on campus.”

A.S. is also allocating its resources to combat hunger in the San Diego region, partnering with the Jacobs and Cushman San Diego Food Bank between the weeks of Oct. 17 through Nov. 7 for the Aztecs Rock Hunger campaign, their official website states.

“The biggest goal for me is to break the Aztecs Rock Hunger record by raising 500,000 pounds of food through the campaign,” said Hayden Willis, vice president of financial affairs and student leader of the Aztecs Rock Hunger campaign. “Not only for immediate food insecurity relief but just to build awareness about the problem with food insecurity as a whole both on campus and in San Diego.”

SDSU’s student government is establishing programs to promote more student advocacy, revamping the Your Voice Matters campaign so that members of the University Affairs Board can see what students want improved, according to Christopher Thomas, vice president of university affairs.

“It is basically where students have the opportunity to share their opinion about anything, about SDSU,” Thomas said.

“It’s something that was started three years ago but really was never promoted or given to the students in the right way. So it’s really about revamping it and making sure that their opinions are heard by AS.” Interested students can submit a comment, concern or suggestion on SDSU’s Your Voice Matters official website.

A.S. is working to expand student awareness in several ways, a major

one being their revamped website; its implementation allowing students to more easily discover the AS’s resources, according to Willis. The student government is also promoting themselves through events such as the Union Block Party as well as information sessions regarding A.S. committees, Willis continued.

The leaders of SDSU’s student government say they are striving to give back as much as they can to an institution that left a large impact on their lives.

“The amount that I’ve grown and the amount that A.S. has helped shape me into a better leader will definitely have an

“We pretty much, as students, hold the power for the next generations to come.”

– Chimezie Ebiriekwe, A.S. president impact on me for the rest of my life,” said Carmel Alon, vice president of external relations. “I’m a better version of myself because of Associated Students.”

These student officers say they’ve been affected greatly by those before them, and are well aware of the impact they may have on this university’s future.

“We pretty much, as students, hold the power for the next generations to come,” Ebiriekwe said.

in violation of “Failure to Comply” policies requiring members not to interfere with university officials or public safety officers while acting in the performance of their duties.

FIJI is one of two fraternities currently on probation, the other being Phi Kappa Theta. However, no further details on Phi Kappa Theta’s probation are yet available to The Daily Aztec.

SDSU Communications Director Christine Hutchins said the university encourages all new students and parents to review the university website for updates regarding fraternities’ and sororities’ judicial, academic and accreditation standing. She also said FIJI is required to notify all potential new members of their current judicial status.

Hutchins did not immediately respond to a request for explanation about why details of Greek organizations’ judicial statuses are not more publicly available.

On March 6, 2017, a meeting was held between fraternity members and Caryl Montero-Adams, assistant director of Student Life and Leadership for Greek life, where the fraternity was found in violation of university policies pertaining to alcohol at off-campus events.

Montero-Adams declined to go on the record with The Daily Aztec, but according to documents, an investigation into the fraternity was launched after a party that allegedly occurred at the chapter house on Oct. 15, 2016, in which two individuals were hospitalized — one because of excessive intoxication and one because of an injury.

Both individuals, who were not identified, were interviewed by the Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities.

One of the interviewees told investigators that they were underage, and although there were mixed drinks and shots freely available at the party, there were no ID checks or wristbands.

The person also told investigators they were given a “yellow pill” at the party.

The other interviewee described FIJI to investigators as a “less sketchy frat” and reported they brought their own alcohol because “FIJI is known for not providing a lot” according to the documents.

Fraternity members — whose names were redacted — told investigators the fraternity did not host any social event that weekend.

After this incident, it appears FIJI was given an interim suspension pending an informal conference and decision.

The Daily Aztec

3

After the October party, two more incidents occurred that prolonged the investigation.

Another “alcohol at events off-campus” policy violation was reported to have taken place Dec. 3, 2016.

In the early morning hours of Dec. 4, 2016, a sexual battery was reported to university police as having taken place at the FIJI house, but it was later determined to have occurred at a different location, according to a police report.

Whether the two incidents are related is unclear.

Fraternity members described the incident as being the result of an “open house” policy, whereby any member may come back to the fraternity house at any time, with guests. According to documents, members and their dates returned to the house after sorority formals.

Investigators were again told by fraternity members that there was no alcohol present in the house at the time of the incident.

In the last incident, photographs of a party that reportedly occurred March 4 were sent to investigators. The photos were described as showing fraternity members handcuffed to dates, with references to a “cuffs” party theme in Instagram captions.

Alcohol was also present in the photos.

As a result of the probation, FIJI has a number of restrictions placed on it for the 2017-2018 academic year.

The fraternity may only hold one event with alcohol per semester until it is off probation., which must be held on campus.

Any other events must be “dry socials “with no alcohol, and for all events, members must submit a proposal with detailed risk management plans to Fraternity and Sorority Life, following the university’s three-week event approval process.

The fraternity must hold an “alcohol and other drugs” workshop for both semesters of its probation, and is required to host a hazing”workshop during the fall 2017 semester and a “post-probation risk management” one in the spring.

The fraternity executive board is required to work with Montero-Adams to hold a risk management plan development workshop in either summer or fall 2017.

Additionally, FIJI must hold a prerecruitment meeting with the executive board, 90 percent of membership and alumni advisors prior to any recruitment activities each semester where members must discuss ways to mitigate risk of hazing, alcohol and other drugs.

Each workshop must have at least a 90 percent chapter attendance rate.

Any further violations of university policy during the probation may result in an immediate interim suspension of the fraternity.

Opinion

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The Daily Aztec

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Dana Tsuri-Etzioni, opinion@thedailyaztec.com

Why study abroad is a college experience to remember

by Talia Raoufpur SENIOR STAFF WRITER

A regret many adults have following their college education may be not having spent time abroad. Whether it be studying, interning or working in another country, nothing should stop a student from spending time abroad.

This past summer, I completed an internship in Jerusalem and could not imagine my life without this experience.

Developing a daily routine in a new city with norms that were foreign gave me the strength to adapt to any challenge I came across.

Whether it was the threat of a terror attack, having to change my bus because of overcrowding or finding a place to eat.

While abroad, I did not want to spend my time agonizing over the unknown. While abroad, you want to embrace the experience.

Time abroad is valuable. Keeping an open mind and heart can only be beneficial.

Spending time overseas does not need to be a financial strain. Hundreds of scholarships are available to students.

Price tracking websites such as SkipLagged.com and

Airfarewatch.com provide users with more affordable flight options than the airlines’ own domains. Yes, the journey will cost money — but that doesn’t mean it has to be expensive. The lessons you have the potential to learn, people you will meet and growth you will make make the cost worth it.

It’s the little parts of the day that I miss most about spending time abroad. I miss purchasing Magnum ice cream bars on my walk home, using the milk frother for my lattes in the morning before the start of work, the smell of fresh fruits and spices that flooded the “shuk” (bazaar) and relaxing in a lounge chair on the beaches of Tel Aviv with a glass of mint lemonade in hand.

Not to mention walking around the city for hours, hoping to get lost. Even more importantly, I’ll miss having Shabbat meals with various families who opened their homes to me when I needed a meal Friday nights and Saturday afternoons. We were connected via a Facebook page, and I inquired that I needed a meal for the weekly Sabbath.

These individuals became my family as we broke bread and

spoke about our life experiences in the US and in Israel. These moments are foreign to my life here in the U.S. Depending on the country chosen, the language barrier

“Developing a daily routine in a new city with norms that were foreign gave me the strength to adapt to any challenge I came across.” may be shocking at first. It can be scary to be unfamiliar with the native tongue, but adapting to the sound of a new language will come quickly.

One day while riding the bus, the driver signaled for my attention. Anxiety rushed over me, not knowing how to respond to the bus driver’s

request in Hebrew. I paused and created a mental plan of how to understand him. I looked to a man sitting near me, hoping he could read my mind. He did, and told me that I needed to walk back to the front of the vehicle and collect my receipt.

I was not allowed to communicate with my therapist for security reasons. So in the three months I was away, I had to self-soothe when my anxiety appeared. I became my own counselor, mentally coaching myself during difficult times.

In time overseas I evolved into a more confident and selfassured woman. I now possess self-compassion. I am more content with who I am and what I believe in — and could not be more grateful.

The school year just started so it’s time to start planning your study abroad trip — get struck by the magic of a new country.

Talia Raoufpur is a senior studying psychology and communication. Connect with her on Facebook or Twitter @TaliaRaoufpur

Textbook fees should be included in tuition because professors can assign overpriced books to their captive audience.

A new semester means new expenses, from tuition and housing to parking passes.

Many of these expenses can be overcome by financial aid and outside scholarships. But, with another tuition increase, it can become more difficult for families to afford. There is one expense that can be avoided.

The price of textbooks has been rising over the last few years. According to USA Today the average price of a single textbook has risen 82% between 2002 and 2013.

Despite the price hike, universities leave it up to students to pay the price of these books although they are already paying for the content of the class itself.

Something needs to be done to combat the rising prices of textbooks — part of the solution can be that required textbooks are included in the price of tuition.

The College Board estimates that the average student will pay upwards of $1,200 per year on textbooks and related supplies. The reason for this is because many professors write their own books and require the

use of the textbooks to succeed in the class. Professors can use this captive market to their advantage because no matter the price point students will have to pay.

Some universities such as the University of Minnesota placed regulations that state

not profit from their textbooks.

Students are already paying for the class — why should they be charged extra for the profit of the professors?

If it becomes a requirement for universities to include textbooks in tuition, they will not pay the sky high prices that are charged

“The American Association of University of Professors stated that professors ‘sometimes realize profits from sales to their students’ and ‘professors may seem to be inappropriately enriching themselves at the expense of their students’.” professors can’t personally profit from the sale of materials. But, the American Association of University Professors stated that professors, “sometimes realize profits from sales to their students,” and “professors may seem to be inappropriately enriching themselves at the expense of their students.”

This should not be the case and there should be a policy at every university that professors may

for individual books. This in turn will drive prices down to a reasonable level that will become affordable for both the university and the students paying tuition.

This academic year, there was a five percent increase in tuition with no explicit changes to benefit students.

If tuition is to be raised there should be a benefit — like more affordable textbooks. Paying $200 for a new textbook is

MANAGING EDITOR Lilly Glenister NEWS EDITOR Will Fritz ASST. NEWS EDITOR Jasmine Bermudez OPINION EDITOR Dana Tsuri-Etzioni MUNDO AZTECA EDITOR Jocelyn Moran ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Cami Buckman SPORTS EDITOR Zach Engberg ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Abraham Jewett DIGITAL SPORTS EDITOR Mary York ENGAGEMENT EDITOR Alex Piscatelli PHOTO EDITOR Kelly Smiley MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Mirella Lopez SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR David Santillan VOLUNTEER EDITORS COPY EDITOR Brian del Carmen

Price hikes make students break a sweat

by Chloe O’Rourke STAFF WRITER

EDITOR IN CHIEF Andrew Dyer

an undue burden for students working their way through college.

If the CSU system makes every effort to keep student costs to a minimum like they claim, they would find a way to keep their students from being taken advantage of in this situation.

In many cases students take on debt, which is made worse by the inflated price of their books.

If textbooks were included in the price of tuition, the loans for each semester would match this price. This would allow students to purchase their books without placing them in financial distress.

Students should not have to choose between purchasing an item they can’t afford or allowing their grade to suffer.

Without the required textbooks classes become much more of a challenge.

If universities want students to succeed, textbooks should be included in the price of tuition.

Chloe O’Rourke is a sophomore studying journalism and public relations. Connect with her on Instagram @chloe.orourke and Twitter @chloeeorourke

EDITOR-AT-LARGE Jacob Sisneros LAYOUT & DESIGN Emely Navarro ART DIRECTOR Aiden Prehatny SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Talia Raoufpur Julianna Ress Chris Bremer STAFF WRITERS Danny Dyer Maya Carter Nicole Badgley Kayleigh Venne Tony Zarate Mayer Pohlod Kyle Saunders Sydney Sweeney Chloe O’Rourke Elizabeth Barboza CONTRIBUTORS Jordan Rubin STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Kirby Crow Joe Kendall Petey Dyer Richard Han ________________________________ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Connor Brooke SALES MANAGER Peter Saridakis ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES George Saridakis John Weil Josh Diaz Rauda ACCOUNTING & CONTRACTS Tyler Burnett Meah Mapp ________________________________ GENERAL MANAGER/ADVISER Jay Harn GRAPHICS SPECIALIST Christopher Blakemore ________________________________ EDITORIAL 619.594.4190 editor@thedailyaztec.com ADVERTISING 619.594.6977 advertising@thedailyaztec.com PRINT The Daily Aztec publishes 5,000 copies of its weekly print edition every Wednesday throughout the semester WEB Daily content is available at www.thedailyaztec.com QUESTIONS/COMMENTS letters@thedailyaztec.com ________________________________ The views and opinions expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Daily Aztec.

Opinion

Aug. 23-29, 2017 EDITOR: Dana Tsuri-Etzioni, opinion@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

5

Expensive to be a guest at BLVD63

by Dana Tsuri-Etzioni OPINION EDITOR

Almost every person living in a city can relate to any traffic related issue — more specifically, parking hassles.

San Diego is a large city with 1.4 million people living in it as of 2016.

Although not all those people have cars, most have to battle it out for the limited amount of parking spaces different establishments offer.

So with all these people driving around — why don’t places in San Diego make parking less of a hassle for everyone by providing more spaces?

This is a large issue at BLVD63, an apartment building located a little more than one mile from the San Diego State campus.

Because of its proximity to SDSU, BLVD63 is home to many students. With 332 apartments and about 1100-1500 residents living in the complex, there are always a lot of people around — with a lot of guests.

The issue with the amount of people and the guests they have is the lack of guest parking spaces.

Guests have limited options.

They can either park on El Cajon Boulevard which has very few spaces and signs that read “30 minute parking 8 am- 6 pm,” which is the majority of the day.

Or they can find a side street to park on where it is highly unlikely to find open spots as everyone is vying for them.

With such a lack of options, the most convenient location to park is the Rite Aid across the street.

However, parking there is just as much of a hassle — but not

because of limited spaces.

There is a sign in the Rite Aid parking lot that states it is a tow away zone and that parking overnight is not allowed, as well as a sign that reads the parking is for customers only and all cars in the lot after hours will be towed. Rite Aid closes at 10 pm, which leaves guests very little “after hours” parking options.

Tow away signs can seem like an empty threat a lot of the time — Rite Aid wasn’t kidding.

My car was towed twice from that parking lot in the last week alone.

Of course it’s my fault for having parked there when I’m technically not allowed, but what am I supposed to do when I’m visiting BLVD and have nowhere else to park?

And why is Rite Aid so quick to call the tow truck when I parked there for half an hour past the allotted time that isn’t even explicitly stated on their sign? The sign simply states no after hours parking, not what those after hours are.

I paid more than 400 dollars total to the tow company because I had no other choice for parking. BLVD63 is full of residents that go to SDSU and it’s made almost impossible to visit them because of the lack of parking.

More designated parking spots for guests visiting BLVD63 are necessary, with time restraints that aren’t so absurd.

Photo by Petey Dyer BLVD63 is an apartment complex close to the San Diego State campus and home to many students.

Dana Tsuri-Etzioni is a sophomore studying communication and journalism with a minor in interdisciplinary studies. Connect with her on Instagram @dana_tsuri

Photo by Petey Dyer Tow away signs are found in the Rite Aid parking lot on El Cajon Boulevard.

Photo by Petey Dyer Most of the sidewalk in front of BLVD63 is labeled 15 min parking.

Start the year off on right foot

by Jordan Rubin CONTRIBUTOR

Photo by Petey Dyer 30 minute parking signs line El Cajon Boulevard in front of BLVD63.

As the first week of classes came to an end, and the stress of finding classes seems to disappear, many are not aware of what lies ahead. Syllabus week can be the easiest time to relax and get some last minute partying in. But in reality, preparing for the semester requires full attention.

Getting the right textbooks and material for classes early in the semester is an important aspect for success.

It might seem impossible because of the overwhelming line in the bookstore, but keep in mind how useful it is as a source. Another route to take is finding the textbooks from other students online and buying it for cheaper. While the version might be different and the access code won’t work, it is still a useful tool for studying.

And a great alternative if the new textbooks are an expense that can’t be afforded.

“I was smart enough to buy

textbooks online through Facebook. It was way cheaper and the guy selling it said it was a good deal,” said freshman David Burd.

Another important aspect to keep in mind as syllabus week draws to a close is the seating situation in class. Choosing a seat in class represents what kind of student one would like to be. Depending on the size of the class or the professor, many might choose to sit in the front or way in the back of the class.

Then who sit in the middle? The students that most likely came late and were the fill-ins. The back of the lecture hall can be the best way to still be in class while playing on a phone or taking a quick nap. Some might sit in the front in order to try to get their face remembered by the professor. However, as long as one is able to focus throughout the class, it shouldn’t really matter where one sits.

“I prefer to sit in the middle of the lecture hall towards the center because it is the best place for taking notes,” said pre-med sophomore Jordan Hoberman.

Attending class is important to prepare for upcoming tests and assignments. One might get the impression that skipping class won’t have any consequences in college — but keep in mind professors are able to do random attendance checks and pop quizzes. Every point counts when one takes classes that determine placement in a desired major. One might need the attendance boost to help because of a low test score.

Getting to class on time is essential as well because one will be more aware of what is expected rather behind when the lecture begins. Also, the best seat can be chosen when one is there ahead of time.

Syllabus week ended and so it is time to get serious about the school year. Keeping these essentials in mind can help avoid bumps along the road.

Jordan Rubin is a sophomore studying television, film, and media with a minor in entrepreneurship.

Follow him on instagram @jordanrubin23

6

Mundo Azteca

The Daily Aztec

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Jocelyn Moran, mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

Cientas de personas rodearon Chicano Park para defender los murales

fotos y articuló por jocelyn moran

EDITORA DE MUNDO AZTECA

Chicano Park fue llenado por cientos de personas quienes defendían el parque el 3 de septiembre, después de que personas de la ala derecha amenazaron hacer campaña para derribar el sitio y los murales.

Esto fue a causa de que los monumentos confederados fueron quitados por todo el país.

Estas personas de la ala derecha aparecieron por la mañana, pero se fueron rápidamente.

La policía ayudó a separarlos para que no hubiera violencia.

Carteles que leían “Nazi-Fascistas No

Pasarán” fueron levantadas por chicanos y chicanas y personas apoyando a chicanos y chicanas por todo el parque.

Banderas de México también rodeaban el parque.

Estudiante bajo Consideración de Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia de CSU Los Ángeles Karen Ragazzo dijo que unas de las razones por la cual decidió ir a Chicano Park fue porque siente que el país está pasando por un tiempo donde hay mucho odio hacia gente de color y minorías.

“Siento que están tratando de callarnos”, dijo Ragazzo. “Y pienso que es un tiempo perfecto para que todos se unan como minorías, inmigrantes, transgénero, a que te relacionas a y demostrar que no tenemos

miedo de pararnos”.

Activista indocumentado y graduado de CSU Long Beach Norberto López dijo que decidió ir porque entiende la importancia de unirse juntos.

“Creo que cuando nos unimos así, es cuando tenemos más poder”, dijo López. Nos permite que educamos a personas y decirles que no estamos aquí para pelearnos con la gente. Estamos aquí porque verdaderamente estamos tratando de cambiar algo”.

La administración de Donald Trump anunció el 5 de septiembre que DACA terminará.

“Yo, como estudiante indocumentado, hay muchas cosas que están pasando políticamente que nos están afectando

mentalmente, y estoy acá por esa razón también”, dijo Ragazzo. “Necesito pararme para la generación después de mí, la que viene. Pienso que es tiempo para que nos defendamos y protejamos nuestros derechos”.

Estudiante de cuarto año de Diego Hills Iliana Jordan dijo que le gusta mucho Chicano Park porque ha estado allí desde que era pequeña.

“El arte significa algo para mi y mi familia y nuestra cultura”, dijo Jordan. “Me importa, y por eso decidí venir”.

López dijo que es tiempo para que personas tomen acción.

“O es que estás con la gente o estás en contra de la gente”, dijo López.

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En su segundo año como universitaria, Evellyn Rosas, dijo haber encontrado una familia.

Ella se unió al Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán, mejor conocido como M.E.Ch.A, de San Diego State.

Ahí, Rosas fue motivada a compartir su opinión sobre temas culturales y políticos que afectan a la comunidad Latina.

Según Rosas, M.E.Ch.A le provee a los estudiantes una plataforma para que hablen de parte de una comunidad poco representada en la sociedad americana por medio del activismo y el liderazgo.

Cada semestre, esta organización le da la bienvenida a estudiantes de nuevo ingreso al promover su organización alrededor del campus.

M.E.Ch.A. no es un programa dirigido únicamente a los estudiantes Latinos o chicanos.

El movimiento estudiantil abre sus puertas a cualquier tipo de estudiante interesado en participar en una organización política que tiene tres objetivos.

De acuerdo a la mechista Alexis Mora, promover “la conciencia cultural, conciencia política y la educación superior”.

M.E.Ch.A. es más que una organización política recalcan Mora y Rosas, es comunidad.

Los mechistas están comprometidos con educar a su comunidad sobre lo que ocurre en el mundo pero sobre todo en los Estado Unidos.

Esta organización además de unirse con otras organizaciones socioculturales y políticas en el campus, se involucra

con escuelas alrededor del condado de San Diego para promover su programa y compartir las experiencias de sus miembros.

El año pasado, en solidaridad con la comunidad nativo-americana, estudiantes de M.E.Ch.A. abogaron por remover la mascota universitaria, Moctezuma, durante un debate de más de tres horas.

Después de la elección del presidente Donald Trump, los mechistas organizaron una manifestación con el apoyo de distintos estudiantes expresando su preocupación por el presidente electo.

Liderazgo, perseverancia, comunidad y unidad son los pilares de M.E.Ch.A. Ahí, los estudiantes reconocen que son parte de algo mayor, buscando impactar su comunidad y a la nación.

Los mechistas son perseverantes en promover la conciencia social y política entre sus miembros y al expresar su opinión de manera necesaria como en debates y manifestaciones.

El sentido de comunidad y unidad nace de la hermandad entre M.E.Ch.A. y otras organizaciones en el campus y su manera de involucrarse con la comunidad de San Diego.

De acuerdo a Mora y Rosas, M.E.Ch.A. busca crear “conciencia y promueve un añorar de mantenerse informados e involucrados en nuestra cultura, sus problemas y victorias” entre la comunidad de estudiantes Latinos.

A finales de este año, Rosas será una de las presentadoras de la conferencia 47 anual de high schools en donde estudiantes alrededor de la comunidad de San Diego se unen con el propósito de motivar a los jóvenes a continuar sus estudios en la universidad.

Mora, al igual que Rosas, forma parte de la mesa directiva de M.E.Ch.A.

Sept.6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Jocelyn Moran, mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

Mundo Azteca

The Daily Aztec

Cientos se reúnen en solidaridad en San Diego a causa de la revocación de DACA

7

Fotos por Jocelyn Moran

Miembros de la comunidad de San DIego se reunieron para defender a las personas bajo DACA.

por Jocelyn Moran EDITORA DE MUNDO AZTECA

Fiscal General Jeff Sessions anunció la decisión de Trump de terminar Consideración de Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia el 5 de septiembre durante una conferencia de prensa, afectando a aproximadamente 800,000 “dreamers”.

A causa de la decisión, cientas de personas se reunieron en Waterfront Park en Downtown San Diego para demostrar su apoyo para la gente indocumentada que ahora vive con preocupación y incertidumbre.

DACA, empezado bajo Presidente Barack Obama en 2012, ha permitido que inmigrantes, quienes fueron traídos a los Estados Unidos por sus padres ilegalmente, puedan obtener una educación y trabajar sin el temor de ser deportados.

Estudiante de relaciones públicas de San Diego State Hector Manuel Zermeño fue traído a los EE.UU. cuando tenía 12 años, y ha estado viviendo en los EE.UU. por 15 años.

“Hoy, por la mañana, y durante todo el fin de semana, me sentía muy ansioso para ver qué tipo de decisión iban a tomar y cómo iban a terminar el programa”,

dijo él. “Perderé mi trabajo, lo cual es mi sustento. No podré obtener la carrera que quiero”.

Sessions dijo que cientos de miles de americanos han sido rechazados de trabajos a consecuencia de que “esos mismos inmigrantes ilegales tomen esos trabajos”.

“No podemos admitir todos quienes quieran venir aquí”, dijo él. “Es tan simple.

Eso sería una ley de fronteras abiertas, y la gente americana ha rechazado eso”.

Administradores de SDSU escribieron una carta dirigida a Trump el 3 de septiembre que defiende a los dreamers y urge a Trump que no termine DACA. La carta empieza con reconocer que SDSU está localizado en la frontera internacional con México y que es una de las universidades más diversas del país.

“Nuestros estudiantes, a pesar de su estátus de inmigración, son valorados como miembros de nuestra comunidad educacional”, la carta leía.

“Al considerar su decisión, nosotros le urgimos que dé el mayor peso al hecho de que estos individuales quienes llegaron a este país muy pequeños para hacer la decisión de venir aquí, o para entender cualquier impacto consecuente en su ciudadanía, han sobresalido como estudiantes y como ciudadanos buenos”.

Zermeño dijo que se ha sentido apoyado

“No saben quienes nosotros somos como personas.

No estamos aquí solo para quitar del gobierno, pero estamos aquí para contribuir a este país”.

Republicanos de la Universidad SDSU es muy ignorante de que el programa de DACA verdaderamente es.

“No saben quienes nosotros somos como personas”, dijo él. “No estamos aquí solo para quitar del gobierno, pero estamos aquí para contribuir a este país”.

Sessions dijo que terminar con DACA es el primer paso hacia terminar con “la falta de respeto de la administración anterior por el proceso legislativo”.

Hablamos Español

SAN DIEGO

por SDSU con todo lo que ha pasado.

La Universidad Estatal de California (CSU) publicó información el 30 de agosto y aseguró que la matrícula y la ayuda financiera no sería afectada si Trump decidiera terminar con DACA, pero la garantía si pudieran seguir trabajando para la universidad no era claro.

El club Republicanos de la Universidad SDSU publicaron una declaración en donde expresan que apoyan la decisión de Trump de terminar DACA. “Como un programa que incentiva inmigración ilegal a los EE.UU. y permite residencia indefinida sin documentación, no podemos pararnos inútilmente mientras nuestras fronteras permanezcan comprometidos”, leía la declaración.

Zermeño dijo que siente que el club

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Zermeño. “Mi peor temor era si iba ser deportado antes de que pudiera obtener mi licenciatura”.

La administración parará de considerar aplicaciones nuevas para DACA, pero individuales quienes están bajo DACA actualmente van a poder renovar el periodo legal de dos años hasta el cinco de octubre.

El plan dá al congreso un periodo de seis meses para pasar legislación que podrá reemplazar a DACA, antes que el programa se venza el 5 de marzo del 2018.

Zermeño dijo que aplicó para DACA en 2012, y recibió su permiso de trabajo en 2013.

“Esto me afectará porque es posible que regrese a un país que no sé cómo trabaja”,

“Todas las leyes relacionados a la inmigración debe de servir el interés de la gente de los Estados Unidos, inmigrante legal y nativo igualmente”, dijo Sessions.

Zermeño dijo que le gustaría poder empezar su carrera en los EE.UU. porque es el país que ha crecido a amar.

“Entonces, para que ellos me digan que no somos parte de este país es tan desalentador”, dijo Zermeño.

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football preview

The Daily Aztec

by Abraham Jewett ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

at Arizona State Sept. 9 In week two SDSU will face off against the Arizona State Sun Devils of the PAC-12 conference. The Aztecs have played Arizona State 11 times in the program’s history, but have been unable to come away with a victory. The closest SDSU came was a 27-27 tie in a game played in 1951. The Sun Devils will come into this game riding a seven game win streak against SDSU. Arizona State senior quarterback Manny Wilkins has shown strong accuracy in the pocket, when he’s able to get his passes off. In the Sun Devils season opener against New Mexico State, Wilkins was sacked seven times, which should make the Aztecs defense mouths water. Getting to the quarterback will be key, as Wilkins is surrounded by weapons like junior wide receiver John Humphrey.

Arizona State’s defense has shown they can be susceptible to the big play, allowing redshirt junior quarterback Christian Chapman and senior running back Rashaad Penny major opportunities to see the end zone. Depth will play the deciding role in this game, and SDSU will fall while putting up

Aztecs football season

a valiant road effort.

Prediction: Arizona State 28 SDSU 24 ASU player to watch: Senior quarterback Manny Wilkins Stanford Sept. 16 In week three the Aztecs will face off against the Stanford Cardinals of the Pac-12 conference. SDSU has played Stanford four times in their school history, having won the first meeting between the schools in 1985, but have since lost the previous three meetings, the last game being played in 1988. Stanford comes into the season ranked No.14 overall in national ranking polls, and the meeting between the two sides will go a long way towards defining the Aztecs’ season.

Taking down a Pac-12 powerhouse will start with the Aztecs being able to stop Stanford’s star junior running back Bryce Love. SDSU will also have to deal with the poise and experience of Cardinals senior quarterback Keller Chryst, who has the tools to carve up the Aztecs secondary. Depth will be a factor in this matchup, and while SDSU will give their all to defend their turf, Stanford will be able to overcome the home field advantage and come away with the victory.

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Prediction: SDSU 14

Stanford

35

Stanford player to watch: Junior running back Bryce Love

The Aztecs will kick off their conference schedule in week four against the Air Force Falcons, a team which SDSU has had their way with in recent years. While both teams call the Mountain West Conference home, the two sides have not played head to head since the 2015 season, with the Aztecs having won the last six matchups.

Air Force runs a triple-option flexbone offense, which causes problems for teams who are not prepared to combat it. This type of offense opens up more choices in the running game, and the Falcons run well, showing this off while scoring seven rushing touchdowns in their season opener against Virginia Military Institute.

Junior Air Force quarterback Arion Worthman runs the offense as a dual passing and rushing threat, but the Aztecs will come prepared and use their superior athleticism to stymie this tricky offense.

SDSU

Air Force player to watch: Junior quarterback Arion Worthman Northern Illinois, Sept. 30

at Air Force, Sept. 23

Prediction:

at UNLV, Oct. 7

Force 14

24

Air

Week four will see the Aztecs play host to the Northern Illinois Huskies, who hail from the Mid-American Conference.

SDSU has historically had success against the Huskies, having won all five matchups.

After not playing head-to-head for 45 years before last season, the two teams will meet for the second straight year, after the Aztecs came away with a 4228 victory last season in enemy territory at Husky Stadium.

Senior quarterback Ryan Graham runs the offense for the Huskies, posing a legitimate air and ground threat. Northern Illinois has shown that it can get to the quarterback and boasts a solid rush defense. In the end the Aztecs athleticism and home field advantage will allow the team to make quick work of the Huskies.

Prediction: SDSU Northern Illinois 17

45

Northern Illinois player to watch: Senior quarterback Ryan Graham.

The Aztecs will head up to Sin City in week five, where they will continue their MW schedule with a matchup against UNLV. The two schools have played each other every year since 1999, with the Aztecs taking the last three matchups that includes a 26-7 home victory in 2016 and 52-14 MW West Division clinching win in Las Vegas in 2015.The Rebels will be looking for revenge at home this season, having last defeated SDSU in their own house in 2013.

SDSU will have their work cut out for them on the road against a team that will be hungry for a victory. The Rebels have a running back in junior Lexington Thomas who will look to go yard for yard with Penny, and should cause problems for the Aztecs defense.

The Rebels’ struggles to get to the opposing quarterback will make the difference in a game that will come down to the final snap.

Prediction: SDSU 28 UNLV 27 UNLV player to watch: Junior running back Lexington Thomas.

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Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

football preview

n preview at a glance Boise State, Oct. 14

season the Aztecs will compete against the Fresno State Bulldogs, this time in a conference home matchup slated for week seven. SDSU holds the slight edge in victories over the Bulldogs, and have won the last two matchups between the two schools. In 2016 the Aztecs came away with a 17-3 road victory, while the defense hasn’t allowed more than one touchdown to Fresno State since 2014.

The Bulldogs should provide a tough test for the home side. Senior receiver KeeSean Johnson could cause trouble in the SDSU secondary in what should be a low scoring game between teams with solid defenses. Home field advantage will make the difference.

Week six will pit the Aztecs against the Boise State Broncos, a relative newcomer to the MWC, joining the league in 2010. There have been only four meetings between the two schools, resulting in both sides splitting the matchups with two wins apiece. Boise State won the last game that was played in 2014, when they came away with a 38-29 home victory.

Moving the ball against a stingy Broncos defense will be key for SDSU in this home matchup. The Aztecs will have to be careful kicking to Boise State’s electric sophomore cornerback Avery Williams, who has shown he can take it to the house. SDSU will be worn out after a close victory in the previous week, and will fall against a poised and balanced Broncos offensive attack led by junior quarterback Brett Rypien.

Prediction: SDSU 17 - Fresno State 13 Fresno State player to watch: Senior wide receiver KeeSean Johnson.

Prediction: Boise State 28 SDSU 21

at Hawaii, Oct. 28

Boise State player to watch: Sophomore kick returner Avery Williams

The Aztecs travel to the University of Hawaii’s Aloha Stadium to compete against the Rainbow Warriors in a week eight conference clash. SDSU has had plenty of recent success against Hawaii, having won the

SDSU vs Fresno State, Oct. 21 For

the

seventh

straight

last five meetings between the two teams. The Aztecs most recently shut out Hawaii 55-0 at home in 2016.

The Rainbow Warriors have an offense which likes to throw the ball, and a wide receiver in John Ursua who can catch whatever is thrown his way.

Ursua, Hawaii’s star junior receiver, came away with 272 receiving yards, including an 85-yard touchdown reception, in a week two victory over the University of Massachusetts.

The Aztecs secondary will have their hands full, but the offense should be able to overcome any potential jet lag, allowing the team to come away with a high scoring victory.

Prediction: SDSU 35 - Hawaii 28 Hawaii player to watch: Junior wide receiver John Ursua at San Jose State, Nov. 4 SDSU will stay on the road for their week nine matchup against the Spartans of San Jose State. The two Mountain West schools have been evenly matched historically, however the Aztecs have won the previous four matchups between the two teams dating back to 2013. SDSU will look

to extend that streak and build on their 42-3 blowout of the Spartans in 2016.

San Jose State sophomore quarterback Josh Love has shown he can be a leader, but he has struggled with his accuracy, something SDSU should take advantage of. Penny and backup sophomore running back Juwan Washington could both have big games against a team which has struggled to stop the run.

Prediction: SDSU 34 - San Jose State 10 SJSU player to watch: Sophomore quarterback Josh Love Nevada, Nov. 18 SDSU will head home for its week 10 matchup against the Nevada Wolfpack. The Aztecs have won the previous two meeting between the teams, including a 46-16 shellacking of the Wolfpack in 2016. This matchup has historically been a high scoring affair, making this game an interesting test for the Aztecs defense.

The Aztecs will look to continue their recent success against the Wolfpack, and the defense should be able to make quick work of their opponents exciting young running back in sophomore Josh Kincaide.

Chapman should be able to

The Daily Aztec

bully a weak secondary in what should be an easy victory for the scarlet and black.

Prediction: SDSU 38 - Nevada 15 Nevada player to watch: Sophomore running back Jaxson Kincaide New Mexico, Nov. 24 The Aztecs will complete their regular season and conference schedule with a home matchup against the New Mexico Lobos. SDSU has won the last five meetings between the conference foes, with their last loss coming in 2008 when current head coach Rocky Long was at the helm for the Lobos.

The schools have not met headto-head since 2014, when the Aztecs won on the road 24-14.

The Aztecs will have to deal with senior Jake Rothschiller, a versatile safety who was named the MWC defensive player of the week following the Lobos week one victory over Abilene Christian. SDSU will be able to take advantage of a porous defensive line and will run all over New Mexico.

Prediction: SDSU 31 New Mexico 14 New Mexico player to watch: Senior defensive back Jake Rothschiller.

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The Daily Aztec

football preview

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

Fresh faces combining with proven assets

by Abraham Jewett ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

San Diego State football comes into the 2017 season looking to defend its Mountain West Conference championship.

Head coach Rocky Long will be entering his seventh season at the helm, as his team looks to exceed its 11 game win total from 2015 and 2016.

SDSU finished last season ranked No. 25 overall in both the Associated Press and Coaches national polls, and looks to climb its way back into the rankings with only 12 starters - five on offense and six on defense returning for the new year. SDSU got off to a fast start in its week one matchup against UC Davis, winning the Sept. 2 home opener with a score of 38-17.

Rashaad Penny, the current SDSU record holder for yardsper-carry in a season with 7.49 in 2016, will be taking over as the team’s starting running back, and could find himself running into Heisman trophy contention.

Penny, who will be backed up this year by sophomore running back Juwan Washington, ran wild in the Aztecs first game against Davis, giving a glimpse of what he has to offer this year by running for a game high 197 yards on just 21 carries.

Penny, who previously backed

up Donnel Pumphrey while functioning as the Aztecs primary kick returner, is ready to take on a marquee role this season.

“It was exciting, I mean I knew I was going to get this opportunity by just waiting and being patient,” Penny said after the week one victory.

SDSU will also be looking for big things from redshirt junior Christian Chapman, who enters the year as the team’s starting quarterback for the second straight season. Chapman, who may be asked to take on a more prominent role in the offense this season, showed against Davis that he can be accurate in the pocket, completing 16 of 21 passes for 220 yards with two touchdowns.

While the Aztecs have been more run oriented in recent years, Chapman made clear after the Davis game that he believes in the teammates put around him on an offense that could be much more versatile.

“Our receiving corps is really good this year. We’ve got a lot of weapons,” Chapman said.

“You’ve seen what we can do in the running game and the passing game so we’re gonna be good.”

Long is on board with the idea that the passing game could take on a greater role this year. “(The) Passing game is going to be better because we have a veteran quarterback and we have more skill at wide receiver,” Long

said. “We’re not a drop back team, we’re not a shotgun team, but as long as we can efficiently run the ball, we’re going to have some receivers that are open.”

Even with the return of starters like Chapman and proven assets like Penny, the Aztecs will be a team that is full of youth, which brings with it questions. The offensive line this season will feature four new starters, with only senior guard Antonio Rosales returning as a starter from last years squad.

In their first test of the season Chapman was sacked one time against Davis while the offense rushed for 276 yards.

“I was happy for the offensive line,” Long said after. “We know (Penny and Washington) can run the ball. But they don’t get to run with the ball unless the big boys upfront do a pretty good job and I thought the offensive line got better as the game went along.”

On the defensive side of the ball the Aztecs lack experience and depth past the starters, something which was on display during the fourth quarter against Davis. In the final frame the Aggies were able to move the ball seemingly at will, putting up two touchdowns against the inexperienced SDSU backups.

In his postgame press conference Long said that he worried the youth of his defense could become a significant factor

as the season goes on.

“This is the youngest defense we’ve had since I’ve been here, by far,” Long said. “If you take the starters out of there, you see what you get.”

The man who will be in charge of making sure the defense plays up to its reputation this season will be Danny Gonzales, who has been promoted to defensive coordinator this year after being the Aztecs’ safeties coach for the past six seasons.

Gonzales said he believes in his defensive players, while at the same time acknowledging that the youth factor is something him and the rest of his staff have to work hard on.

“We’ve got some young guys in the secondary that we need to play well early, we’ve got some true freshmen that we’re counting on playing,” Gonzales said.

“Those guys will have a chance… because they are good enough athletes. The thing that we’ve got to eliminate now, that you have a lot of time with freshman playing, is mistakes.”

SDSU’s next test will come in its first of two back to back matchups against PAC-12 Conference schools, when they travel to Tempe, Arizona on Sept. 9 to face off against the Arizona State, a team which the Aztecs have not beaten in 11 chances. SDSU will follow up this game with a home matchup against Stanford on

Sept. 16, when it will go against a Cardinal team that came into the 2017 season ranked No. 14 overall in national polls.

The Aztecs will then kick off Mountain West Conference play on Sept. 23, when they head up to Colorado to take on Air Force, in a game which will be the schools’ first meeting since the 2015 Mountain West Conference championship game.

Photo by Kelly Smiley, Photo Editor

Rashaad Penny runs for a touchdown.

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

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Gonzales promoted to defensive coordinator

by Mayer Pohlod STAFF WRITER

During his seven years as head coach, Rocky Long has built San Diego State’s football program up to one of national recognition, culminating in an AP top-25 ranking at the end of last season.

But Long was not alone in his journey to the top of the Mesa.

The name Danny Gonzales doesn’t ring many bells when attributing just where the Aztecs’ success has come from, but it should.

For the start of the 2017 football season Gonzales may be on his way to get some more of that recognition after Long named him defensive coordinator.

The promotion from safeties coach, while not meaning Gonzales will be doing anything different, is yet another milestone to his and Long’s relationship, which started nearly twenty years ago.

Gonzales was a safety and punter for the University of New Mexico from 1994 to 1998. Long began coaching there in 1998.

“His first year with New Mexico was a completely different culture than what we had, and I bought into right away,” Gonzales said.

Long quickly brought the possibility of coaching to Gonzales’ attention. Gonzales started out his coaching career as a graduate assistant, before becoming New Mexico’s special

teams and safeties coach from 2005-2008.

Gonzales left his alma mater for a high school coaching stint, but Long called him in 2011 and asked him to join him at SDSU. “The second he called it was a no brainer. I would’ve rode my bike out here if that’s what it took,” Gonzales said. “He’s been unbelievable to me my whole coaching career. He’s been unbelievable to work for and he’s taken of me and my family, it’s a real blessing.”

Long said he saw Gonzales’ potential from the very start.

“When he got done playing he wanted to be a graduate assistant and he was a very good one, so you knew he would be a good coach,” Long said. “I just didn’t know that he’d be with me and that he’d end up here.”

The position of defensive coordinator has meaning in that Long gave Gonzales the title, after holding it since he came to SDSU under Brady Hoke’s regime in 2009. Gonzales will also be the first defensive coordinator under Long.

Gonzales will continue to serve as safeties coach.

“The last couple years he’s been doing all the groundwork, as far as breaking down film, evaluating the opponent,” Long said. “He’s basically going to be doing the same thing he’s been doing the last three years.”

Ernie Anderson, SDSU Athletic Media Relations

Defensive coordinator Danny Gonzales coaches during a fall practice.

Gonzales agreed.

“I feel honored that he gave me the title. What he does on the sidelines is magical.

We’re not going to be changing anything too much, we’re gonna

keep it the status quo,” Gonzales said.

Under Gonzales, the Men on the Mesa led all D-1 teams in interceptions (26) in 2016, and with 51 have the most since the

start of the 2015 season. Since his arrival in San Diego in 2011, the Scarlet and Black rank third in interceptions (102) and fifth in interceptions returned for touchdowns (15).

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Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

SDSU primed for success for years to come

by Kyle Saunders STAFF COLUMNIST

It’s been a stressful, question-filled offseason for head coach Rocky Long and the San Diego State football team. The success of this season is square upon the shoulders of a team of fresh faces.

Not to mention one of the 12 includes the former centerpiece of the Aztecs’ offense, now Philadelphia Eagles running back Donnel Pumphrey. That isn’t an ideal situation for a coach to embrace, but change doesn’t scare Long, and the openings give opportunities for several freshmen and young players to shine and help the Aztecs succeed just as much if not more than their predecessors.

“The best thing about being young is that you do not know all the pitfalls that an old guy like me knows. They all think they are going to be as good as they were as seniors in high school. They know they are going to be good,” Long said. “Well, guess what? They are not, but I like their attitude. I like that they think they are. It’s good to be young. You don’t know what’s going to happen to you out there.”

Let’s begin with the offense. The successful strategy of ground-and-pound running that proved to be so successful for the Aztecs while Pumphrey was in the backfield is now up for questioning, as the task has been passed onto senior running back Rashaad Penny.

Penny is an explosive back who can break through tackles and run over defenders with little to no effort. His explosiveness is undeniable and it shows in every aspect of his game. He is game proven, and the only thing that he could improve on is his leadership and embrace his position as the

feature back of the team. That, however, isn’t the big question for the Aztecs. What worries coaches and fans is the fresh faces on the offensive line.

Every football coach and player knows that the success of an offense begins and ends with the men up front, and even with the best skill players in the back field they would be nothing without a solid offensive line. And for the past couple seasons, the Aztecs have played with the best line in the Mountain West Conference.

Coach Long and Offensive coordinator Jeff Horton have decided that their best option moving forward is to put their faith in the youth. Junior starting quarterback Christian Chapman understands that there is a lot of risk with rookies starting, but has

faith in his on field body guards.

Working with them throughout the spring has given him the opportunity to gel together as an offensive unit and see the rookies improve as football players and as teammates.

“I think midway through camp after we got a few scrimmages underneath our belts, you started to see the guys growing and getting used to the kind of group that was in,” Chapman said. “Once they got a concrete group in there with the right guys and they got a fill for each other, they slowly started to get better.”

It is crucial to have the team trust and believe in each other and the way that these guys talk about each other and how they carry themselves all point to success

Christian Chapman throws a pass during SDSU’s opening game win vs. UC Davis.

Photo by Kelly Smiley, Photo Editor

this season.

The faith and optimism in the young guys doesn’t end with the offense. The defensive side of the ball for the Aztecs will also see some freshman getting immediate action in their young collegiate careers, as the Aztecs plan to play freshman safety Tariq Thompson and sophomore safety Trenton Thompson -- no relation -- in the secondary.

Tar. Thompson recorded an interception in his first collegiate series against UC Davis. They have some great veterans to follow, as senior safety Trey Lomax will lead the Aztecs and try to steer his younger teammates in the right direction. Lomax knows all about the talent his teammates have, even if they haven’t been able to prove it yet.

“I am not really nervous,” Lomax said.

“But it is definitely a challenge how young we are, especially in the DB group with Tariq Thompson and Trenton Thompson not being experienced, but they are talented so I have confidence in them.”

Sure, it isn’t ideal to put this much inexperience in a starting line up, but fate has forced SDSU’s hand. The problem with having so many young players in starting positions is that there may be a lack of leadership and experience that can possibly cripple a team. Veterans like Chapman and Penny should be able to command the locker room and the offense, while we may see Ron Smith and Trey Lomax have to step up and lead the defense to success and help develop the rookies.

Although they are young, this Aztec team is still fully able to defend their MWC championship and look to make their way into the Top 25 if they can continue their tradition of winning.

Aztecs success starts with team’s veteran leadership

by Tony Zarate STAFF COLUMNIST

With its win over UC Davis the San Diego State football team showed a lot of promise. The 2016 team had nothing short of the greatest season in school history, so the question remains: will this year’s team be lost in its predecessor’s footsteps?

Last season, the Aztecs were led by FBS all-time leading rusher Donnel Pumphrey and current Atlanta Falcons cornerback Damontae Kazee.

Head coach Rocky Long will have the task of developing and restocking young and growing athletes.

The star of this years offense is senior running back Rashaad Penny. Last season

he showed he is able to fill Pumphrey’s shoes, while rushing for over 1,000 yards.

In the week one victory against Davis, Penny got off to a fast start by rushing for a career high 197 yards on 21 carries.

Penny’s job is not only to pound the rock, but also be a leader on the team.

It is still early in the season and there is a lot of football to be played, but SDSU has its hands full with their upcoming schedule. On Sept. 16, the Aztecs will have to sharpen their spears before going to war against the Stanford Cardinal, their toughest opponent this season. A powerhouse in the Pac-12 conference, Stanford has experience playing in high stakes games, something young Aztecs players are missing.

New players such as true freshman

Photo by Kelly Smiley, Photo Editor

Sophomore defensive lineman Myles Cheathum fights off a block from a UC Davis player.

safety Tariq Thompson, and redshirt freshmen offensive linemen Keith Ismael and Tyler Roemer, have never played in a game as big as this. SDSU will also host Boise State University on Oct. 14 for the first time since 2013, which will be another tough test for a team looking to show it still belongs.

There are high hopes for redshirt junior Christian Chapman, who is entering his second full season as the SDSU starting quarterbakc.

But is he truly the man that the team’s younger quarterbacks, like backup redshirt sophomore Ryan Agnew, can look up to?

Chapman threw for slightly less than 2000 yards last season with a 61%

completion rating, and at times seemed hidden behind the limelight of Pumphrey.

If Chapman is to be the man for the remainder of this coming year and next, the quarterback from Carlsbad High School still has a lot to prove.

After finishing last season ranked No. 25 overall in national polls, the Aztecs have put themselves in the conversation.

The team has potential to be nationally ranked once again, and with Long’s expertise and the leadership of current players, SDSU can reach even greater heights.

But the Aztecs rely on their stars and veterans, and in the future without those leaders, a bright future is not certain for the men on the Mesa.

football preview

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Zach Engberg, sports@thedailyaztec.com

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13

Where are they now: Aztec alumni in NFL

by Mayer Pohlod STAFF WRITER

After the 2016 NFL Draft saw a six-year streak of at least one San Diego State football alumnus hearing their name come to an end, SDSU returned to form in 2017 with three drafted players. The Aztecs also have several undrafted players fighting for roster spots.

Donnel Pumphrey - Philadelphia Eagles One of the most hyped NFL prospects in San Diego State history, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Pumphrey with the 132nd overall pick in the fourth round.

The all-time FBS rushing leader has spent the preseason fighting with four other running backs for a roster spot. While his performance has been underwhelming -- he’s averaging just 1.9 yards per carry -- his selection in the fourth round shows Philadelphia’s faith in him, whether as a slot receiver or in special teams.

Nico Siragusa - Baltimore Ravens Siragusa was selected in the fourth round as well, by the Baltimore Ravens, ten picks before Pumphrey.

Unfortunately, the offensive lineman joined many others on the Ravens on the injured reserve list.

Siragusa was gunning for a possible promotion to the starting line before suffering a torn ACL, MCL and PCL to already end his first NFL season before the preseason season began. He is looking to come back for the 2018 season.

Damontae Kazee - Atlanta Falcons The same fate befell Kazee before the 2017 NFL season, though on a less serious note than Siragusa. Kazee was ruled out of the rest of the Falcons’ preseason after going down with an ankle injury on Sept.

21 vs the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He looks like more of a lock to see playing time than any other SDSU prospects.

While Ricardo Allen has the free safety spot locked down, expect Kazee to get some looks in game this year while seeing an expanded role going further.

Undrafted Free Agents With three players drafted, five other Aztecs still saw their chance at NFL stardom stay alive after signing with teams after the seventh round.

Alex Barrett - Detroit Lions The defensive end’s only offer after the draft came from the Lions, and he’s made the most of his opportunity. Barrett impressed the Lions enough to earn a spot on their 53-man roster.

Calvin Munson - New York Giants If any undrafted SDSU player had the ability to make it through all the roster cuts, it’s Munson.

The linebacker snuck past every team on the draft board but has found a home after being promoted by the Giants. He’s taken advantage of injuries to those ahead of him on the depth chart to solidify a spot on the 53-man roster.

Daniel Brunskill - Atlanta Falcons Brunskill went undrafted but was picked up by the Atlanta Falcons, eventually being added to the 2017 practice squad.

Brunskill switched from tight end to offensive lineman in his senior season, starting all 14 games for the Aztecs.

Several SDSU alumni have high NFL hopes.

Kwayde Miller Miller was originally signed by the Los Angeles Rams back in May, but was cut less than a month later. The Miami Dolphins scooped him up in early August, but then cut him later in the month.

Malik Smith Unfortunately Smith was also cut from his NFL hopes by the Houtson Texans in the last round of cuts before finalizing their roster.

Several current Aztecs have NFL potential as well.

Senior fullback Nick Bawden was named a first-team All-American by Pro Football Focus in 2016 after swtitching over from quarterback.

Senior running back Rashaad Penny has prototypical NFL size and explosiveness, posting 1242 yards from scrimmage and 14 touchowns with 7.5 yards per carry in a backup role in 2016.

Graphic by Aidan Prehatny, Graphic Designer

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Arts & Culture

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Cami Buckman, arts@thedailyaztec.com

AS Food Pantry expands projects

by Nicole Badgley STAFF WRITER

The start of the new school year comes with new changes from San Diego State’s Associated Students.

One of the new aspects directly affecting students is the expansion of the AS Food Pantry, the campus’ first real push at fighting food insecurity.

Last spring, a resolution was proposed within AS to expand the food pantry and its components. The bill was passed in spring 2017 and was implemented in fall 2017.

Originally implemented in fall 2016, the food pantry was only available on Thursdays at the farmers market prior to the resolution.

Because of the resolution, the food pantry now runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday’s on the second floor of Conrad Preby’s Aztec Student Union. The pantry is also still accessible for students on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the north library walkway by the farmers market.

The food comes from The Jacobs and Cushman San Diego Food Bank and is delivered to the student union.

Communications junior Joey Lucero is the AS Student Support Commissioner and said his branch of AS is directly involved with the food pantry’s implementation and goals.

According to Lucero, the AS Food Pantry has distributed 38,321 pounds of food to 2,842 SDSU students from fall 2016 to the end of spring 2017. There are a total of 150 trained SDSU student volunteers who served more than 300 hours in volunteer work during that time period.

Lucero said that this year the pantry will also be giving students needed toiletries. He said this is something many food pantry recipients pushed for.

Another part of the expansion includes an educational component that includes resources to other AS food insecurity programs and encourages students to look into CalFresh, a federally mandated, state-supervised and county-operated government program that provides monthly food benefits to low-income households.

Students can directly apply to receive food from CalFresh on the AS website, as well as schedule to meet with an application advisor.

This year, AS Food Pantry is partnering with health educators from Health Promotion to help make the application process easier and less intimidating for students.

Food Pantry volunteers and AS supervisors are also present to provide information about nutritional services, how to get in contact with the Economic Crisis Response Team and AS No Waste.

AS No Waste is a sustainability initiative designed to reduce food waste in the student union and provides food to SDSU students facing food insecurity. The initiative has a Twitter account students can follow to receive notifications and additional information.

“If we have an event in the student union or an event on campus where there’s catering and there is food that was untouched or leftover, we will tweet out on that Twitter account and tell people to come pick up food at this location,” Lucero said. “It’s great food because it’s catering.”

Courtesy of Gerardo Cabral

The AS Food Pantry sets up every Thursday during the farmers market on the north library walkway.

Marketing junior Sam Emami is the Marketing and Communication Commissioner for AS. He facilitates all marketing efforts for AS programs and campaigns.

Emami said he is really proud and excited for the expansion of the food pantry to provide more opportunity for students to come out and take advantage of it.

“I believe having such a thing on a college campus is huge because the concept of food insecurity is very prevalent across many college campuses,” he said. “(These) programs allow students to feel comfortable and be able to stress less about their food situation and have a consistent source of groceries if need be.”

Lucero said there is no application process. When students go to the food pantry, volunteers swipe their Red IDs to

verify they go to SDSU as well as count the number of students utilizing the food pantry.

“At that point, there are no other questions, no qualifications or applications,” Lucero said. “Students literally get their reusable shopping bag we provide them with and they can go ahead and shop at the Food Pantry.”

AS is hoping that the expansion of the Food Pantry will ease the financial burden that some students feel so that they can focus on their purpose at college.

“We don’t think a food pantry can solve food insecurity by itself, so what we’re doing is really ensuring that we’re providing students with other resources that are available to them at the food pantry when they come to pick up food,” Lucero said.

‘Tom Gun LIVE’ parody show entices Tom Cruise lovers

by Danny Dyer STAFF WRITER

He’s a star-spangled movie icon, and now he has his own play.

“Tom Gun LIVE: A Maverick’s Homage,” is a spin-off stage parody of the 1980’s original action flick “Top Gun.” The play is a wacky celebration of Tom Cruise’s best cinematic hits.

“Tom Gun LIVE: A Maverick’s Homage” opened at the San Diego Music Box August 27.

The premise is simple enough: the Cruise character explains he is running late for the show, and until he arrives someone needs to fill his role as Maverick, the all-macho protagonist of the play.

“Look, I’m in a car and I’m on my way,” the Cruise character said, face projected on the backdrop of the stage. “In the meantime, who better to take my place then my biggest fans?”

As Thomas Blake, host of the event and creator of the show, goofily fumbles around stage within its opening minutes, the audience is elbowed out of the role of spectator and propelled into the show itself.

Eager hands rose as Blake sifted through the crowd to select potential Maverick candidates. After conducting the Tom Cruise test, a test that included audience members singing their favorite songs from “Top Gun” and giving their best Cruise impersonation, the new Maverick was chosen.

Blake’s spin-off lunges over the one hurdle that most other spoofs can’t seem to leap. He balances his zany satire with the film’s original substance, never reclining too far on one or the other.

The show remains rooted in the overthe-top charm that its predecessor is

so known for, but also stretches to new laughs with its slap-stick mockery and crowd involvement.

From Mitch Eakins’ portrayal as the lovable co-star, Goose, to Joya Italiano’s overly sexualized Carole, it’s almost as if the play is a self-aware caricature, jabbing fun at its ridiculousness.

“What I tell my actors is to act like you’re a 12-year-old kid and your favorite movie is Top Gun, and you want to put it on with your buddies in the backyard,” Blake said.

This child-like approach translated to the stage with triumphant amusement.

Every aircraft skirmish included a riot of paper airplanes whizzing above the theater seats as Goose and Maverick sprinted from aisle to aisle with comically small inflatable airplanes coiled around their necks.

The timeless volleyball scene was lampooned with a gut-busting accuracy, shirtless slow-motion in all.

To up the Tom Cruise-ante, scattered between each act of the performance were micro-plays that captured memorable scenes from other Cruise classics like “Cocktail” and “Tropic Thunder.”

“I thought they did a great job with showing just how fun Tom Cruise movies can be,” kinesiology senior Matthew Manetti said. “Now I just want to go watch some of his films again.”

Blake aims to wrap up a west coast tour of the production in San Francisco, but still has grander goals for his newest creation.

“If it’s a possibility, I might get an Atlanta-based cast going on and maybe have them go to New Orleans, Atlanta and do that whole area,” Blake said.

If the stars align, “Tom Gun LIVE: A Maverick’s Homage” will eventually traverse the entire country, something no Tom Cruise fan would dare to miss.

Sept. 6-12, 2017 EDITOR: Cami Buckman, arts@thedailyaztec.com

Arts & Culture

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Drag queens strike a pose at state Dragstravaganza dazzled SDSU through an Aztec Night filled with glitter, dancing, lipsyncing and pride

by Syndey Sweeny SENIOR STAFF WRITER

The San Diego State Pride Center building pulsated with techno music as a student dressed in active wear and five-inch high heels practiced their dance.

This rehearsal was an enticing preview of a special show that was in its final hours of planning: Dragstravaganza Saturday, an Aztec Nights event organized by the Pride Center and held this past Saturday in the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union.

Although the title Dragstravaganza Saturday might not ring familiar in the ears of many students, drag shows are nothing new to SDSU’s campus.

Saturday’s party of glitter ‘n’ stilettos was simply a modified reincarnation of a retired Aztec Nights celebration called “Thursday’s a Drag.”

Interdisciplinary studies senior and Pride Center peer counselor Shane James said during its three-year run, the event was so successful that, last fall, some students missed out on the weekday glamour because the show’s venue reached maximum capacity.

James had been Dragstravaganza Saturday’s primary director for four months.

He handled technicalities like visuals, lighting and scheduling, and performed and co-hosted alongside prominent American drag queen and former “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestant Shangela Laquifa Wadley.

Despite Dragstravaganza being his first time coordinating a legitimate drag show, there wasn’t a sliver of detectable anxiety in James’s voice as he

detailed the high-stakes event that afternoon.

“We want to live up to the fact that it’s been moved to Saturday, so it’s gonna have a new face, a new brand, all of it,” he said.

James’ confident fantasy became a loud, glittering reality.

A summer of planning with the Pride Center Coordinator Christopher Lujan and the rest of the center’s staff was proved worthwhile when hundreds of students gathered in a noisy Montezuma Hall Saturday.

A live DJ offered the growing audience throwback hip-hop bangers that felt delightfully prom-esque. A diverse blend of attendees chattered, grinned and boogied in their seats.

Whether they were dressed in drag, semi-formal evening attire, or a school-spirited combination of red and black, each audience member was eager for someone to graze the long, black runway before them.

The crowd erupted when the bass of Beyoncé’s “Get Me Bodied” suddenly flooded each corner of the auditorium and a parade of drag queens strutted around the runway touting rainbow pride flags.

James, who identifies as queer, said the pro-queer politicization of Dragstravaganza was no accident. James hoped that students would come with an open mind, not only ready to be entertained, but to leave with knowledge.

“We don’t have a set message, but there’s an unofficial, lowkey kind of message to the entire show,” he said. “With the political climate and everything that’s going on, we wanted to make sure that we’re making good use of the platform that we have.”

This kickstarting introduction was certainly the fraction of the evening most blatantly in touch with the origins of drag culture and the LGBTQIA community, but it definitely wasn’t the only moment of serious social consciousness.

This was not the case for James,

Photo by Sydney Sweeny

Two-time “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestant Shangela co-hosted the Dragstravaganza Aztec Night held in Montezuma Hall.

who, as dashiki-adorned queen Amber St. James, performed an Afrocentric standout number that twinkled with red, black and green, the colors of Black liberation.

Flaunting rogue lipstick and leather ankle boots, Amber dramatically tossed her long body around with fierce spirituality as the phrases “Black Lives Matter” and “Black Girl Magic” were projected on the screen behind her.

While this radical recital is to be expected from a character like James, whose disciplinary emphasis’ are Africana studies, communication and counseling and social change, it was still compelling.

Amber’s routine was inarguably the most politically charged, but that’s not to say that the other nine student drag queens didn’t put on equally amusing shows

Photo by Sydney Sweeny

Delta Work, a drag queen from Norwalk, Calif. dazzled the audience with her expressive lipsyncing.

Although each lip-syncing queen was rocking a lace-front wig, bold lipstick and neckbreaking heels, no two divas were alike.

Attendees were faced with a Snapchat-worthy variety of performances from the members of SDSU’s own queer community.

R&B-infused pop of the early millennium like Rihanna, The Pussycat Dolls, Cassie, and Destiny’s Child were interpreted by queens who had an unabashed affinity for the nostalgic genre.

These ladies included the flirty Kat Fisher, blue-eyebrowed BaeBae Blu, and one seemingly skilled gal named Victoria who would have blended in perfectly with the rest of The Pussycat Dolls real-life cast.

Other student performers included Lucy from Human Resources, who students can in fact spot working at the Human Resources front desk on weekdays.

There was also a woman named Priscilla and big-nosed Francine, whose wacky number to D.R.A.M.’s “Broccoli” sent the audience spiraling into a frenzy of laughter.

Refreshingly sprinkled in between each series of individual performances was an assortment of group routines and segments in which the queens interacted with audience members.

Some of the evening’s most unforgettable treasures were the appearances of professional drag queens Shangela and Delta Work, both of whom delivered star-studded numbers with college humor appropriately tossed in the mix.

Shangela’s concluding recitals of “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” and “Run the World (Girls)” were almost more Beyoncé than Queen Bee herself.

As Shangela skipped off stage and toward the rows of chairs filled with spectators, the radiant vigor of Montezuma Hall was comparable to that of the Grammy-winning artist’s arena

concerts.

“Tonight is all about standing together and having a great time, despite what’s going on in this world and in this country,” Shangela said earlier that night, grasping a fan in one hand and a pride flag in the other.

Her last performance ended with a standing ovation for the talented queen.

Indeed, it looked as if students were not only fascinated by Dragstravaganza Saturday, but respectfully admiring the LGBTQIA community and its unique, creative culture.

That acceptance is, perhaps, a true indicator of the first Dragstravaganza Saturday’s triumph.

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A tale of two Taylors: the evolution of the old and new Swiftie Sorry, the old Taylor can’t come to the phone right now.

Why, oh...cause she’s dead!

by Mary York DIGITAL SPORTS EDITOR

Taylor Swift’s new single “Look What You Made Me Do” is being decried by every cynic and crowd-following coward as proof that our perfect country princess has finally gone totally nuts.

“Has anyone checked on Taylor lately?” one Facebook user wrote.

“Like, is she doing okay?”

The undauntedly loyal faction of Swifties — and a slew of fair-weather fans who are enjoying Swift’s darker side — are defending the song as a masterpiece of vengeance, a real “stick it to the man” kind of song.

Little is said about the quality of the song itself, except in vague reference to the records it has already shattered — including biggest Spotify debut with 10.1 million streams in 24 hours.

Discussions on the subject, which are usually short and cryptic, are not about whether Swift’s song is a good song, but rather if it is a good “Taylor Swift song.”

The distinction is important.

Sure, it is a little petty. The song is the epitome of the millennial mindset—empowering victimhood.

And maybe they are right. No one made you write the song, Taylor.

But a look at the video makes a compelling argument for Swift’s genius.

In every sound bite there is

a reference to the many witchhunts she has been subjected to by the media since her early rise to fame.

The video includes everything from her girl squad and highly publicized feud with Katy Perry to several of her more recent boyfriends and Kanye’s regrettable, unforgettable interruption during her 2009 VMA acceptance speech.

She even includes versions of herself representing the metamorphosis of who she has become as a person and an artist.

There’s the curly-haired country Swift, red marching band Swift, Swift during her bangs phase —all dead, according to Taylor.

And as a die-hard Taylor Swift fan, that makes me a little sad.

I will be the first to defend Swift’s disturbingly narcissistic sense of humor, self-deprivation and defensiveness.

I think she’s a musical genius, not because she can sing all that well, but because she writes songs so many of us had been singing for years, we just did not know the lyrics till she wrote them for us.

Swift’s music has gotten me through every major life change, heartbreak and road trip of the last decade.

When she wrote “Teardrops on my Guitar,” I had a hopeless crush of my own.

“Change” was my anthem for all of senior year because “somebody else got what you wanted again...and you’re getting sick of it” was just too familiar a feeling.

And if Taylor could say, “I believe in whatever you do,” then maybe I could too.

And who has not felt the very

real pain of Swift’s bridge in “Enchanted” when she wistfully sings, “Please don’t be in love with someone else.”

I have.

But here is where I have trouble with my girl’s new hit song. I grew up loving a Taylor Swift who taught me how to love fearlessly, even if it hurt.

I was taught that life is full of chances to begin again. I was taught that “time can heal most anything,” and this person who wants to “get smarter, get harder in the nick of time” is a stranger to me.

I was taught to shake it off, and clearly, she has not been able to do that herself yet.

Swift seems to have finally given in to the haters.

They clearly have a lot more influence over her music than she is admitting.

Just look at the title.

Old Taylor would not have stood for this.

Her haters have always been present in her music as a backdrop that she tunes out, negative voices she decides not to listen to.

That was the kind of music that inspired us. Perhaps she was a more vulnerable Taylor Swift, but she made the rest of us strong.

That is why I do not like her new single.

Maybe this is the new face of the country-turned-pop artist.

Maybe it is one of many to come. But she sounds a lot like that “big loud opinion...ranting about the same old bitter things... alone in life, and mean.”

So I am not going to sing this song.

The old Taylor always told me not to.

Sept. 6-12, 2017 Editor: Cami Buckman • arts@thedailyaztec.com

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QUEST FOR GREATNESS Senior wide receiver Quest Truxton dives for a pass from redshirt junior quarterback Christian Chapman during SDSU’s 38-17 opening game win over UC Davis.

ACROSS 1 One taken for a fool 5 Question at a reunion 11 Game show hosts 14 Camped in a trailer, for short 15 Sort of 16 Spoil 17 Tennessee whiskey cocktail 19 MLB’s Indians, on scoreboards 20 __ Alamos 21 Groundbreaking tool 22 Aquatic plant 23 Fruity dessert 28 “My package has arrived!”

29 “Darn it!”

30 Fun time, in slang 31 “Othello” antagonist 34 Unsurpassed 35 One above criticism 38 Good opponent 40 Fair-to-middling 41 MMDX ÷ V 44 Actor Estevez 46 Stump speech 49 Pre-employment investigation 52 Morsels 53 Conditions 54 Done with one’s

career: Abbr.

55 Yale alum 56 Influential pairing, and a hint to the circles in four puzzle answers 61 President pro __ 62 __ Jug: British Open trophy 63 Take a long bath 64 Most GRE takers 65 Iran, once 66 Holy recess DOWN 1 Hall of Fame Sixer, familiarly 2 Charlottesville sch.

3 Course that makes you sweat, briefly?

4 “How’m I doing?”

New York mayor 5 Hr. segment 6 Swing voter: Abbr.

7 Actor __ Baron Cohen 8 Faint 9 Get by 10 Pupil’s place 11 Magic Eraser spokesman 12 Palmolive’s corporate partner 13 Cooks, as broccoli 18 Tennis legend who wrote “Days of Grace” 22 Traffic light symbol

23 Sty dweller 24 LAX posting 25 Lindros in the Hockey Hall of Fame 26 Blackens, as tuna 27 Former Labor secretary Elaine 32 Prefix with caching 33 Uses too much 35 Jockey’s wear 36 Alter ego of 7-Down 37 Wood measure 38 Screen writer?

39 Con targets 41 Sugar-free soft drink 42 Summer Games org.

43 Tattoo, in slang 44 __ Field: Brooklyn Dodgers’ home 45 Colorful songbird 47 Height: Pref.

48 Where Springsteen was born?

50 Tug __ 51 Operators 56 Angel dust, for short 57 Outdoor gear retailer 58 Transp. group in the Loop 59 Scale syllables 60 Squeeze (by)