SDSU’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT N E W S PA P E R SINCE 1913
WEDNESDAY October 19, 2011 Volume 97, Issue 31 W W W.T H E D A I LYA Z T E C . C O M
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Skateboard protest rolls on INDEX:
F E AT U R E S
ANTONIO ZARAGOZA, PHOTO EDITOR
Campus poll and ongoing protest vie to change policy Kevin Smead staff writer Last Wednesday, a multitude of student skateboarders rode down Campanile Walkway as part of the SDSU Skate-A-Thon, in response to the university enforcing its ban on skateboards, despite the permanent installation of the bike lane. Though skateboards and other similar transportation methods have been technically banned on campus for nearly 15 years, as part of SDSU Police Code 100.02E, last year the SDSU Police Department agreed not to issue citations for skateboarding in the new bike lanes as part of its oneyear trial period. Once the period ended last spring, the University Senate motioned to make all “wheeled conveyances,” excluding bicycles, ineligible for use in the now-permanent lanes. Fines for riding an item such as a skateboard, scooter or rollerblades can be more than $180. The rationale for this motion was presented in an April 5 SDSU University Senate meeting. Environment and Safety Chair Jennifer Quintana pointed to the increased number of citations and accidents involving skateboards that were reported to SDSU Police during the trial period of the lanes as its main reason for the current exclusion. When asked to present the hard numbers in regard to the increase in skateboard-related injury accidents, the attending officer Jennifer Hart did
not have them on hand. However, she claimed most accidents had not been reported at all. In terms of citations issued, this year has seen a 25 percent decrease in number of citations, dropping from roughly 100 last year, to around 75. None of those citations were given inside the bike lane. When the ban was once again enforced, many students who skateboard to school felt they were being misrepresented. “We’re not out here destroying things,” one protester said. “This isn’t middle school.” “The dangers of the skateboard lie in the rider,” Anthony Ortiz, an SDSU student, said. And while the Skate-A-Thon protest may have already made a statement, protesters plan to repeat the event every week. The event’s organizer, Nadir Zriouel, cited Henry David Thoreau’s concepts as the protest’s rationale on the group’s Facebook page. He said if a government is treating its subjects unjustly, the subjects must respond with civil disobedience. Both the previous protest and upcoming repeat had an announced date and time, but disclaimers from the organizer said the time is always subject to change. The event also has a clearly defined set of rules and goals. The guidelines for the event state riders must remain in a singlefile line while traveling down the walkway, remaining as quiet as possible to not disrupt classes. Participants are also encouraged to sign a petition at the start of the event to officially show their support. The next event is planned for 2 p.m. tomorrow, though the date and time are subject to change without warning.
San Diego-based health care technology firm Dexcom (DXCM) was trending slightly negatively yesterday morning, down 12 cents at 10.50. A similar medical device firm, NuVasive (NUVA) was also slightly down at 16.60.
F I N A N C E B E AT
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) continues its downward slide
Take the mystery out of recycling odd objects.
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Q: DO YOU APPROVE OF THE SKATEBOARD BAN?
NO
A: Yes, I think it was a good idea. 19% (25 votes) A: No, I don’t think SDSU should be banning it. 81% (106 votes) 131 total votes.
DA W E B
YES
19% after Monday’s 247-point drop. As of Tuesday morning it was down an additional 70 points, around 11,323, caused by Moody’s rating agency mentioning it would review France’s credit rating, and some less-than-stellar earnings from several companies. The NASDAQ and the S&P 500 were
Check out JAM here:
81% both down a little below 1 percent at 2,590 and 1,192 respectively. The yield on the 10-year Treasury bond was also down slightly at 2.128 and gold was trading down about 2 percent at 1,642.
— Compiled by contributor Chet Galloway
Emergency preparedness isn’t given the attention it deserves.
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OPINION
W E AT H E R : PARTLY CLOUDY HIGH: 70 LOW: 56 SUNSET: 6:11PM
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D A I LY
AZTEC Wednesday, October 19, 2011
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Discard messy recycling misconceptions Sort out fact from fiction in recycling know-how Marie McCarty staff writer Every day, the average American throws out approximately four pounds of waste, totaling more than a ton each year. When multiplied by our country’s population of more than 300 million people, trash rapidly accumulates into unthinkable numbers, making recycling an imperative routine to save energy, reduce air and waste pollution, conserve natural resources and eliminate excessive deposits in landfills. Most of the general population is aware recycling is beneficial for the environment. However, it can be hard to decipher whether an object is recyclable, causing many hazardous materials to end up in landfills rather than their delegated recycling centers. To encourage recycling, the City of San Diego operates an automated curbside recycling program with a biweekly collection service. However, some waste cannot be tossed into those recognizable blue bins. The potential danger of items such as batteries, laptops and blow-dryers is something to consider before disposal. In San Diego, the following items cannot be recycled in blue bins: aerosol cans that are not empty, batteries, ceramics, electronics, fluorescent lightbulbs, glassware, medications, medical sharps, milk cartons, motor oil, plastic bags, plastic utensils, propane tanks, used clothing, Styrofoam and toxic product containers. Items accepted by San Diego’s curbside recycling program include: empty aerosol cans, clean aluminum foil, clean plastic food packaging, newspapers, phone books, paper or frozen food boxes, glass jars and bottles, plastic jars and bottles, mail, paper bags, bagged shredded paper, plastic buckets, tubs, toys, magazines, cardboard and metal cans. To dispose of accepted recyclable goods, visit the SDSU Recycling Center located near Cuicacalli Suites Residence Hall, or place items in the blue bins provided to each San Diego household. Those interested in making a few extra dollars may be pleased to know the SDSU Recycling Center reimburses students with valid Red IDs for recycling aluminum cans, glass and plastic bottles. When unsure where to recycle tricky items such as electronics, websites such as recyclesandiego.org and earth911.com help users locate the proper local recycling center for just about any given item. Another familiar uncertainty is the meaning of the numbers printed with-
in the recycling logo on common plastic goods. The numbers, ranging from one to seven, are resin identification codes representing seven different types of plastic. The Society of the Plastics Industry implemented the system in 1988 allowing recyclers the ability to differentiate between plastics while sorting their recyclable materials.
Plastic number 6: polystyrene, or Styrofoam. Evidence suggests this type of plastic seeps potentially toxic chemicals, especially when heated. This plastic should be used as minimally as possible. It is difficult to recycle and is not accepted by San Diego’s recycling program.
Plastic number 1: polyethylene terephthalate. The majority of disposable soda and water bottles are made of this plastic. This type is generally considered safe, however, it is also known to have a porous surface that allows bacteria to accumulate, making it
Plastic number 7: any plastic composed after 1987. Polycarbonate falls into this category, including bisphenol A. Be wary using products with this label as its makeup is likely unknown. It is difficult to recycle this plastic and it is not accepted by San Diego’s recycling program.
Another familiar uncertainty is the meaning of the numbers printed within the recycling logo on common plastic goods. The numbers, ranging from one to seven, are resin identification codes representing seven different types of plastic. potentially unsafe to reuse. This plastic is picked up by San Diego’s curbside recycling program. Plastic number 2: high-density polyethylene. Most milk jugs, detergent bottles, juice bottles and plastic food containers consist of this plastic. Polyethylene is considered safe and has a low risk of leaching. This plastic is also picked up by San Diego’s curbside recycling program. Plastic number 3: polyvinyl chloride. It is used to make plastic piping, toys, furnishings and food wrap. PVC is tough and should never be used when cooking. Plastic buckets, tubs, pots and toys are accepted by San Diego’s curbside recycling program. Plastic number 4: low-density polyethylene. It is used to make grocery bags, some food wraps, squeezable bottles and sandwich bags. This plastic is considered safe, but is not accepted by the city’s curbside recycling program. Grocery bags should be returned to the retailer for proper recycling. Plastic number 5: polypropylene. It is found in yogurt cups, water bottles with a cloudy finish, medicine bottles, ketchup and syrup bottles and straws. This plastic is considered safe, and is accepted by San Diego’s curbside recycling programs.
For many, recycling has become a part of everyday life. It is an integral component in maintaining a clean environment for today’s population and future generations. In a predominately wasteful society, it is more important than ever for individuals to do what they can to decrease their ecological footprints. Utilizing San Diego’s curbside recycling system and learning to properly dispose of common items are simple steps toward benefiting the Earth and preserving its precious resources.
KATIE FOSTER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
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DA I LY
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D A I LY
AZTEC Wednesday, October 19, 2011
OPINION
Evac plans lacking in class his Thursday, San Diego State will participate in the Great California ShakeOut earthquake drill. No evacuations will be staged, but students will be asked to practice the “Drop, Cover and Hold On” protocol. Knowing how to hide under a desk is all well and good, but students are given zero instruction on what to do in case of fire, a campus intruder or some other kind of emergency. Am I the only one who has glanced at the emergency evacuation plans posted in classrooms and wondered why we never cover such potentially lifesaving information in class? How many times have any of us practiced or at least discussed any kind of emergency response in college classrooms? In high school we would have fire evacuation and intruder drills fairly often. Why should college be any different? The only difference is an even higher density of life: All the more reason to be even more protected.
T
Randy Wilde staff columnist Sadly, there have been a number of shootings at universities around the country in recent years. Last month’s blackout may not have been incredibly damaging, but it was a reminder we must be prepared for all types of emergencies. SDSU could do much more to make students and professors part of the emergency response process. We all need to be aware of the plans that are in place to keep us safe. What’s the point of the evacuation plan on the wall if no one ever gives it a second glance? Once an emergency begins is not a good time to start studying. People will panic and could potentially make disastrous mistakes if they have no prior understanding or training. Every classroom has a different situation in terms of available cover and evacuation
routes. Every building has a different layout plan. Professors and students must go through emergency plans in each class every semester. If actually rehearsing procedures would be too disruptive, we can at least devote some time to discussing them. It’s common knowledge the first day of every class usually consists solely of reading through the syllabus. This relatively untapped time slot, which happens to be the only class every student will likely show up to, would be a perfect time to spend 15 minutes or so going through evacuation procedures and emergency responses. This simple measure would be the best way to prepare us for a variety of scenarios quickly and effectively. We all know how to duck under a desk but no one has ever taken the time to let us in on the bigger plans. I would hope at least the professors are required to be aware of building plans and evacuation procedures. But what if something happens to the professor during an actual emergency? It really wouldn’t be much of a hassle to take a few minutes of one class each semester to talk about emergency preparedness. The risk is real and it’s time we got ready.
RANDY WILDE IS AN INTERNATIONAL SECURITY & CONFLICT RESOLUTION SENIOR.
HOROSCOPE TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (10/19/11) You have a special sensitivity to emotions. Remind yourself of things you love (favorite smells, flavors, places, people) to erase any moodiness. Clean up a mess that's been bothering you, for freedom. Celebrate with people who appreciate you. To get the advantage, check the day's rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. ARIES (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 9 Home replenishes. Make household improvements that feed your spirit. Exercise your blood flow and express your love. Put that creative energy to good use. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is an 8 - Play isn't just for children. It's a great way to learn, and there's education happening today, especially when you least expect it. Find pleasure in the mundane. GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 7 You're better off working for a bonus than spending what you have. Don't dip into savings unless you really have to. Explore all the possibilities and add patience. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 3 You're attracting attention, and your luck is turning for the better. Keep saving up; it's working. A quiet evening rejuvenates. Kick back with a movie and a friend. LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 5 - Love shines through today, illuminating some perfectly gorgeous moments. Your conscience keeps you on the right path. Tell fears you'll get back to them later. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 7 The more you get to know a friend, the
BY NANCY BLACK, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES better you get along. The right words come easily now. Love puts color in your cheeks and a spring in your step. LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 7 Your friends are looking for your peacemaking skills. Your balanced view and strong sense make a difference now, especially at work. Use your diplomacy judiciously. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is an 8 - Explore new ways of creative expression. Avoiding trouble could cost you rewarding experiences as well. Go ahead and risk failure. You'll never know if you don't try. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 5 - A lack of funds may threaten your plans. Start saving up for the key ingredients. Don't lose sight of what you're committed to. The most direct path saves time and money. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is an 8 - Take positive action in the morning for maximum productivity. Afternoon chaos could thwart plans, so leave free time in the schedule. A quiet evening is just the thing. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 7 - Obstacles and limitations could seem more apparent than the road they obscure. Focus on the direction forward, and sidestep. Quiet time provides peace. PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 7 Follow love but not necessarily romance. Professional passions call to you. Your path may not be clear, but take slow steps forward anyway. ©2011, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.
BY THE MEPHAM GROUP, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES
SUDOKU
Difficulty Level: 2 out of 4 Instructions: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudokudragon.com
LO O K I N G T H R O U G H O U R L E N S
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CROSSWORD
GREEN AND AMBER WAVES OF GRAIN Staff photographer Paige Nelson captured this picture of the beautiful Californian countryside. It’s no Storm Hall, but it’s still pretty magnificent.
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ACROSS 1 Black Panthers co-founder 6 Sprightly dances 10 What race winners break 14 Flip chart stand 15 “Typee” continuation 16 Fancy molding 17 First name in British sports cars 18 Freshness 19 River to the Caspian 20 Add-on for a large party’s tab 23 Deposed Amin 24 Siesta 25 In the lead 28 Even thieves have one, it’s said 33 No-win situation 34 Banjo’s place 35 Age-old stories 36 Sphere 37 Largest city in California’s wine country 42 Classic Capek play 45 In fighting trim 46 Chachi’s mother-in-law, to Fonzie 50 Outback runner 51 Nickname seen on a Northeast license plate 55 Fruity soda brand 57 King at Versailles 58 Down-for-thecount count 59 Long-running game show, and a hint to the starts of 20, 28-, 37- and 51-Across 64 Cures 66 Rugged vehicles 67 Writer Zora __ Hurston 68 Sweeten the pot a little?
BY RICH NORRIS & JOYCE LEWIS, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES
Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 69 One and only 70 More pleasant 71 Axe 72 Hang in the balance 73 Jays and O’s DOWN 1 Wishing one hadn’t rocked the boat? 2 Entered carefully, as a highway 3 With a leg on each side of 4 Pope of 903 5 Periodic weather disruption 6 CrŹche figure 7 Apple for the teacher? 8 Mild oath 9 Wrigley slugger 10 “Not my problem” 11 Go along with
12 Whistle bead 13 Fish lacking pelvic fins 21 Half-__: coffee order 22 Some steak orders 26 Go public with 27 New girl in gown? 29 Some Caltech grads 30 “__ of Our Birth”: Isle of Man national anthem 31 Negative conjunction 32 Some Spanish escudos were made of it 38 Pond accumulation 39 PBS benefactor 40 Blacktop material
41 Tbsp. or tsp. 42 Yellow-flag carrier 43 Emma’s portrayer in “The Avengers” 44 Chance upon 47 Wearying grind 48 Joe Greene or Lynn Swann, notably 49 Focal points 52 Wiped clean 53 Calculator figs. 54 Crayola’s “burnt” color 56 Soap box? 60 Chug-a-lug 61 Platte River tribe 62 Grand Ole Opry st. 63 Put a roof on 64 Key below the tilde 65 Diciembre ends it