10-31-2018

Wednesday, Oct. 31 - Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 Weekly Print Edition

Vol. 105, Issue 12 www.thedailyaztec.com

Inside: A student’s guide to voting in the midterm elections. Pg. 7 - 10 Wednesday, March 14 - Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Weekly Print Edition

San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

Campus vigil honors those killed in Pittsburgh synagogue shooting

WHAT’S INSIDE

MEN LOOK TO DEFEND TITLE

by Bella Ross and Sofia Bert

The crowd of university and community members, slitting silently among one another in a moment of reflection, joined hands.

“We will build a better world,” San Diego State President Adela de la Torre said. “Together, we will be one again.”

In response to the mass shooting of 11 Jewish individuals in a Pittsburgh synagogue on Saturday, University officials

worked with the Hillel center at SDSU to host a vigil in honor of those lost.

The central message of the vigil was clear – seek community, increase the light.

“What we do in the face of darkness, what jews do in the face of darkness, is what matters most,” Hillel Executive Director and Rabbi Gary Oren said. “So, when we face darkness, we make light.”

While Hillel Regional Director for Israel education Tina Malka said listeners may discount statements of this nature as mere

fluff, she added in times like this, there is no other option.

“What’s the alternative?”

Malka asked. “Stepping into the pain and the rage and letting that consume you? People who spread violence and hate, that is what they’re after. They want people to feel that way.”

Students, faculty and staff were notified about the vigil in a mass email sent by de la Torre on Monday afternoon. In the email, she emphasized the importance of community in light of trying times.

“To all members of the Jewish

community: We stand with you, we support you, and we will continue to do our part to promote a more compassionate society,” de la Torre said in the campus-wide email.

Malka said maintaining a sense of community is the most important thing people can do to support those who are struggling.

“The magnitude of of this brutal attack of anti-semitism to Jews sitting in a synagogue SEE VIGIL, PAGE 3

Men’s basketball hopes for another Mountain West crown and a trip to the NCAA Tournament.

PAGE 13

WOMEN LOOK TO YOUTH Sophomore guards Najé Murray and Téa Adams expected to shine.

PAGE 13

BASKETBALL PREVIEW ISSUE

by Abraham Jewett SPORTS EDITOR

NEW JORDAN JERSEYS SDSU is the eighth school in the country to be Jordan-sponsored.

PAGE 14

San Diego State men’s basketball has an embarrassment of riches. The start of a new year is right around the corner, and expectations are high for a group that returns key pieces from a squad fresh off an NCAA Tournament run.

The Aztecs appeared to hit their stride at the end of last season, winning nine straight games en route to a Mountain West Conference tournament championship and a trip to the Big Dance.

Notably, this year’s team returns senior point guard Devin Watson, sophomore forward Matt Mitchell and redshirt sophomore Jalen McDaniels.

Mitchell and Watson shined as consistent starters in their first years on the Mesa, while McDaniels toyed with the idea of entering the NBA draft after a successful first season, which included nine double-doubles and a team-best 7.5 rebounds per game, to go along with 10.5 points.

McDaniels ultimately decided to wear the Scarlet and Black for at least one more year, and the Aztecs will look for him to fill the void left by the departure of Malik Pope, who, along with Trey Kell, will no longer be donning an SDSU uniform for the first time since 2013.

The news of McDaniels’ return

LEADING SCORER RETURNS Devin Watson looks to make final season memorable.

PAGE 14

HEMSLEY OPENS UP Senior guard mentally prepares for his senior season.

PAGE 15

FOLLOW US /dailyaztec @TheDailyAztec @thedailyaztec /DailyAztecVideo

SEE INTRODUCTION, PAGE 14

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 • Editor: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

2 / News / The Daily Aztec

Hey Students,

DO YOU WANT TO PAY FOR MEASURE G? “SDSU Can’t Say How It Will Pay For Everything In SDSU West.”

If Measure G passed, SDSU expects to need $550 million to build a new stadium and begin preparing the land.

SDSU’s endowment is $289 million.

So where is the rest coming from?

“We just haven’t finished putting all of those numbers together” JD Wicker, SDSU Athletic Director Voice of San Diego, 10/8/18

“[I]f I’m right – if I’m right – the likelihood that the student fees... comes into play is pretty low.”

John Kratzer, SDSU Consultant Voice of San Diego, 10/8/18

“We‘d also have to make sure that we got enough money from the state’s general fund, tuition, and the support of the faculty.”

Adela De La Torre, SDSU President Union Tribune, 8/8/18

“We have basically two main funding sources, state general fund tax dollars and tuition.”

Adam Day CSU Trustee Union Tribune, 9/6/18

“Usually it’s funded by either CSU bonding capacity, on-campus revenues from either tuition or state appropriations, and private grants” Jack McGrory, CSU Trustee Voice of San Diego Politifest, 10/6/18

Don’t put students at risk. Get the facts: FactCheckG.com/financing

A BETTER ANSWER

E IS FOR EVERYONE

Paid for by GOAL San Diego. YES on E, NO on G. Sponsored

by MLS SD Pursuit with committee major funding from Ptolemy Capital Bridgewest Ventures AJL Investments Funding details at www.sandiego.gov/donors.

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

News

The Daily Aztec

3

Youngest congressional candidate in the nation calls San Diego home

by Michael STAFF WRITER

Cline

At the age of 19, Republican House of Representatives candidate Morgan Murtaugh began her first political internship in Congressman Brian Bilbray’s office. The staff, overwhelmed by the influx of new interns, had no other choice but to place Murtaugh in Congressman Bilbray’s personal office.

“I knew at that moment I would be here one day,” she said.

In her quest to defeat Rep. Susan Davis in the 53rd Congressional District, Murtaugh is running to distinguish herself as a candidate outside the beltway.

“I’m an outsider, and I like it that way,” Murtaugh said.

At the age of 26, she is America’s youngest candidate for Congress in 2018, and it’s fair to say her youth has led to some unique campaigning tactics.

Murtaugh has discussed her campaign at concerts, tailgates and even as an employee of Postmates. Murtaugh credits Postmates with adding a human element to her candidacy, aside from the partisanship found in typical campaigning.

“My goal is to talk to as many voters as possible and to make it memorable,” she said. “I haven’t had one negative reaction (doing Postmates). The coolest part about it all is that l know they’ll

tell their friends and family.”

Despite her young age, Murtaugh’s political activity dates back 11 years. She graduated from George Washington University with a degree in communications and holds a résumé with experience in both media and politics.

“If anyone wants to get into politics, I definitely recommend a communications degree,” she said.

Before announcing her candidacy, Murtaugh worked as a reporter for One America News Network. She said her time as a journalist has helped her tailor a concise message to voters.

“Media has definitely helped (me) get straight to the point since I’m used to talking in one to two-minute soundbites,” Murtaugh said. “I had to be clear and concise with my messaging then.”

Murtaugh said her interactions with voters have heavily influenced her political positions. Murtaugh identifies homelessness as the top priority among district constituents.

Given voter input, Murtaugh has since made solving the homeless crisis her number one issue.

In response to this issue, she said her goal is to create a national database to assist coordination and communication between communities, local governments and non-profit organizations.

“There is such a lack of communication at a time when

Photo courtesy of Morgan Murtaugh on Facebook Morgan Murtaugh, 26, is the youngest congressional candidate in the nation and has been referred to as an “outsider” due to her conservative agenda.

we have so much technology at our fingertips,” Murtaugh said.

“It’s obvious we need the next generation to step in.”

Murtaugh’s campaign website also lists marijuana legalization, tax and spending reductions and environmental protections as her primary policy concerns.

Murtaugh said, as a millennial Republican, she hopes her platform of limited government in matters of economic and social policy will attract more young voters to the party.

“I’d like to take the party in a more libertarian direction,”

Murtaugh said. “The Republican Party is the party of liberty.

Liberty means living the life you want to live without government intervention.”

In addition to policy matters, Murtaugh has raised concerns over Rep. Davis’ time in Washington. She has criticized the senior member’s inability to author or co-sponsor substantial legislation during her tenure.

“The job of a member of Congress is to write policy and pass legislation that will be good for their districts,” she said.

“The only bill Susan Davis has

sponsored and passed in the past ten years renamed a post office.

To me, that is very concerning.”

Murtaugh also seeks to channel her life experiences as a San Diegan to alter the pervasive culture of transactional relationships in D.C. “The very first question anyone will ask you when you’re in D.C. is who do you work for,” she said. “People in San Diego care about who you are as a person, whereas in D.C., it’s the opposite. That is one thing I’d hope to change about the culture.”

SDSU’s Vegan Club talks Proposition 12 ahead of midterms

by Aretha Matsushima STAFF WRITER

Proposition 12, which seeks to modify existing regulations on farm animal compliance, is a political move San Diego State’s Vegan Club said they can get behind.

The proposition seeks to impose new regulations on the amount of cage space provided to egg-laying hens, breeding pigs and calves used for veal. Current regulations for farm animals are limited, requiring cages have just enough space for the creatures to turn around freely, lie down, stand up and fully extend their limbs. The proposed changes through Prop 12 would not take effect in until 2020.

Vegan Club President and Health Communication senior Steve Soto said Prop 12 would establish specific standards for the amount of cage space required for farm animals, a standard that had formerly been neglected by previous policies.

“It’s (currently) not really substantiated by any number,” Soto said. “However, (Prop 12) took that blind spot and tries to solve that.”

The Vegan club on campus, also known as the anti-animal cruelty club, encourages students to vote yes on Prop 12.

If Prop 12 passes, farm animal housing requirements would change to 1 sq. ft. of floor space for egg-laying hens and 43 sq. ft. of floor space for calves. By 2022, new regulations as part of the proposition would take place and require cage-free housing for egg-laying hens and a minimum of 24 sq. ft of floor space for breeding pigs.

The proposition would also make it illegal to sell products, such as eggs, uncooked pork or veal that was not raised in the proper housing requirements within the state of California or other states. Violators of the established housing regulations would be subject to a misdemeanor or a civil fine.

The ASPCA and Humane Societies of the United States are among many organizations who have asserted the confinement of animals is cruel and byproducts of tormented animals pose a threat of public health.

“Prohibiting the importation of animal products that were produced using these barbaric and unsafe methods protects farm animals as well as California consumers who don’t want to support such cruel practices,” the ASPCA said on its website.

While Prop 12 is similar to current Prop 2 laws, which were

passed in 2008, Soto said the regulations put forward by Prop 2 were not put into effect until 2015.

“Prop 2 in 2008 was pretty much the equivalency of what this was, but this is more progressive,” said Soto.

“So, in 2015 and kind of like this one, there’s progressive implementation to it to give people more time to adhere to the policies-farmers and what not.”

Opponents to the proposition say, once put into effect, Prop 12 could raise prices and lead to shortages for eggs, pork and veal due to farmers being required to create or rebuild new housing.

The government could lose state revenue as a result of California farmers reducing or halting production due to rising costs.

One of the often opposing arguments to Prop 12 involves advocating for the abolition of animal abuse and exploitation in its entirety. Soto said, while this idea is good in theory, it is not realistic in terms of policy.

“If we can make every few years these incremental steps, then eventually we will reach that benchmark,” Soto said. “Even though it’s not about the abolition of (animal exploitation), it’s about policy that normalizes the value and the vote towards animal welfare

and advocacy.”

Graphic design freshman Amy Bui said the proposal seems to have definite benefits for California’s agricultural sector.

“This proposal seems like it would have a positive effect on the farming and agriculture of California, even though I don’t advocate for any form of animal agriculture,” Bui said.

TFM freshman Julian Natividad said setting aside from economic considerations, people need to keep the best interest of the animals in mind.

“More space for animals mean healthier byproducts and happier animals,” Natividad said.

Vigil:

“Fighting hate with hate doesn’t work,” Malka said.

“Hate is something that is taught, right? There is no baby that’s born hating anyone. It’s taught carefully and subtly by people, but it’s taught. And it is our job, both for ourselves and for others, that we help people unlearn that.”

According to its website, the Hillel center on Lindo Paseo serves as a safe space where Jewish students at SDSU can gather with the rest of the Jewish community. The space

consistently works at “inspiring and enabling young Jews to find their place in the world.”

De la Torre said the university stands with students who feel vulnerable during times like this and that she hopes students will make use of the resources available to them.

“You need to know, from the bottom of my heart, that this kind of tragedy will never define us as a community,” de la Torre said. “We are always one, and I will always be here for you.”

continued from page 1 praying on a Saturday morning is hard to fathom for some people,” Malka said. “I think tragedy and death are not things people can handle on their own.”

As for addressing the hate that leads to these kinds of tragedies, Malka said it is important for people to remember these attitudes are not inherent in humanity.

4

Opinion

The Daily Aztec

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Kemi Giwa • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

SDSU West is the clear choice EDITOR IN CHIEF Will Fritz

The issue: The SDSU West and SoccerCity ballot Our take: While there are still unanswered measures, Measure G and Measure E, are duking questions on both measures, Measure G and SDSU it out on Nov. 6.

West are an obvious step in the right direction.

MANAGING EDITOR Jocelyn Moran

The Editorial Board

ASST. NEWS EDITOR David Santillan

NEWS EDITOR Bella Ross

OPINION EDITOR Kemi Giwa

I

n 1955, the city of San Diego gave the University of California system a more-than-2,000-acre site in La Jolla overlooking the Pacific Ocean.That site would open as UC San Diego in 1960 and would help turn the San Diego region into an economic powerhouse for decades to come.

When the Chargers left for Los Angeles last year, the city was presented with a similar opportunity. The aging stadium the Chargers played at since the Johnson administration, known at various times as Jack Murphy, Qualcomm or SDCCU, was suddenly without its biggest tenant.

The land was ripe for redevelopment. And what better use is there for the 166-acre site than to give it to another major institution of higher education?

San Diego State has enrollment numbers roughly similar to those of UC San Diego.

And despite that, SDSU sits on a much smaller campus than its cousin to the west.

With its 35,000 students, SDSU has the population of a small town. It isn’t in the process of outgrowing its 300-acre campus on Montezuma Mesa. It already has.

SDSU needs to expand, and the SDCCU Stadium site is quite possibly the only place in built-out San Diego that will become available to the university in the next century.

The war between Measure G, the ballot initiative that would authorize the city to sell the SDCCU Stadium site to SDSU, and Measure E, the initiative that would allow the site instead be leased to an independent investors group promising to bring a Major League Soccer team to San Diego, has been in full swing for months.

Signs advocating for both sides have appeared all around San Diego.

Both campaigns have taken out advertisements in The Daily Aztec.

It’s fair to say plenty of questions remain on both.

For one, it’s worth noting there’s an amount of vagueness in both measures regarding what will ultimately be built on the SDCCU Stadium site.

SDSU has published a plan called “SDSU Mission Valley” – not to be confused with SDSU West, which is the name mentioned in

the ballot measure the university technically has no association with – detailing how it would use the stadium site if it were to be acquired, whether through Measure G or by other means.

The plans include a new stadium that could be used for Aztecs football, as well as housing for students and faculty, among other uses.

But the final details of the site’s development wouldn’t be known until a campus master plan revision and California Environmental Quality Act review have been performed and the CSU Board of Trustees has granted its approval.

On the other side, Measure E would create a specific plan for the site that would allow FS Investors – the La Jolla-based group that would lease the stadium site – to build various retail, entertainment and residential uses, along with an MLS stadium.

But there’s no guarantee a soccer team will come to San Diego, and there’s no guarantee any specific development will be built within the constraints of the specific plan.

Despite the uncertainty, Measure G is a step in the right direction for SDSU and the greater San Diego community.

Mission Valley is already a congested, car-centric labyrinth of poorly-planned shopping centers, homes and apartments. And that’s exactly what the backers of Measure E will seek to bring to the SDCCU Stadium site if it passes.

Additionally, if Measure E passes, anything that is built won’t have to be debated and voted on in a public forum because the implementation of a specific plan bypasses that.

More than 60 percent of SDSU graduates stay in San Diego, and they contribute billions to the local economy annually.

When faced with the choice between adding more urban sprawl to Mission Valley or creating a satellite campus for a university that educates a large chunk of the San Diego workforce, the decision should be clear.

Of course, there’s also a third option – voters can choose to vote ‘no’ on both measures.

Given the uncertainty, the Editorial Board would have no qualms with a voter who chooses that option.

But it’s obvious to us the right choice for students is to vote ‘yes’ on Measure G and ‘no’ on Measure E.

Welter Johnson

We have many examples of San Diego State University students taking the lead on projects that will leave a lasting impact on students today and in the future.

Take for example the student vote that led to the construction of the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union, the establishment of the Black Resource Center and the annual Aztecs Rock Hunger event.

And in about the last year, students have joined faculty, staff, alumni and community members in discussions around a possible SDSU campus expansion in Mission Valley.

At SDSU, we have taken the proposed campus expansion as an opportunity to highlight our university’s existing impact in the region – $5.67 billion annually – and to share how we would multiply that impact by growing our research and innovation initiatives, which provide fertile ground for student learning opportunities.

A significant part of our shared vision is to provide more access to the many students

who apply to SDSU, and to also support them so that they may be successful as students and after they graduate.

If we are able to build a Mission Valley campus, future generations of students, faculty, staff and community members would benefit significantly.

As you continue to learn about the university’s site plan, keep the following in mind: 1) The plan does not rely on student tuition or fees.

SDSU plans to finance the Mission Valley development like other university publicprivate partnerships that have been executed in places like Arizona State University and the University of Illinois.

Such innovation districts have created hundreds of millions of dollars in economic impact while also providing tax revenue to the regions they serve.

2) The plan would expand impact-driven research and workforce development efforts.

Every day, SDSU faculty and staff work hard to provide a high-quality education to students and deliver graduates who are ready to contribute to the workforce and the economy,

ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Julianna Ress ASST. ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Lexington Howe SPORTS EDITOR Abraham Jewett ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Aaron Tolentino PHOTO EDITOR Michael Abshear MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Mirella Lopez ASST. MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Amal Younis ENGAGEMENT EDITOR Dana Tsuri-Etzioni GRAPHIC DESIGNER Katherine Cooke

SENIOR STAFF WRITER Sofia Bert STAFF WRITERS Kyle Betz Michael Cline Shayne Jones Sydney Karlos Kelly Kerrigan Diane López Aretha Matsushima Catherine Van Weele Spencer White CONTRIBUTORS Hannah Goldstone Brett Pickler Miles Streicek Tayza Than ________________________________ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Josh Diaz

SDSU expansion will benefit region for decades

by Stephen and Joseph

MUNDO AZTECA EDITOR Vladimir Salazar

giving back to the community in which they live.

With that in mind, it is important to look beyond the short-term dollars and cents of redevelopment, and look to the larger economic value in having a stronger, more educated workforce.

Sixty-one percent of SDSU alumni put their degrees to work in San Diego.

For every 10,000 additional SDSU graduates, $200 million in annual economic impact is generated for the San Diego region.

Those are tax-paying citizens who have a greater capacity to participate in the local economy, create thousands of additional jobs and enhance San Diego’s economic growth for generations to come.

3) The plan creates a hub for housing, social engagement and new, solutions-oriented ideas.

Universities have always been anchors in their community, and SDSU is no different.

Today however, more universities are also focusing on their roles of transforming student lives through educational opportunities, and

also in serving as creators of novel solutions to issues facing our society and as engines for positive change as part of a city’s economic development efforts.

If we are allowed the opportunity to develop the Mission Valley site, we plan to build affordable housing, an expansive river park and community parks and an innovation district that would situate the private-sector next to faculty where they can collaborate on ideas and generate new commercial enterprises.

Afforded that opportunity, every single dollar we invest in Mission Valley will go back to our public university, our students and the city through the economic return of higher education.

Through our shared vision and plan, we have the opportunity to ensure future generations of SDSU students will have the opportunity to excel and pursue their academic and professional potential.

Stephen Welter is San Diego State’s vice president of graduate and research affairs, and Joseph Johnson is San Diego State’s interim provost.

SALES MANAGER Valerie Barrientos ACCOUNTING & CONTRACTS Samir Sandhu Meah Mapp ________________________________ GENERAL MANAGER/ADVISER Jay Harn GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST Luis Valenzuela ________________________________ 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 5 The California gas tax increase is regressive and unfair. Vote ‘yes’ on Proposition 6 to reverse it

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Kemi Giwa • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

by Miles Streicek CONTRIBUTOR

In April 2017, Josh Newman, a Democratic State Senator who has since been defeated by the Republican Ling-Ling Chang, a Taiwanese immigrant, was the deciding vote to enact a disastrous increase in California’s gas and car registration taxes.

After being signed off on by Gov. Jerry Brown, the new law created a flat tax increase of 12 cents per gallon of gasoline and 16 cents per gallon of diesel fuel.

Along with that came an increase in the car registration fee from $25 to $175 dollars.

But, if Proposition 6 passes on Nov. 6, this tax will be repealed.

Taxes structured like this are considered regressive, meaning it affects people more, the less wealthy they are.

A millionaire at the pump is still paying the same 12 cents per gallon as someone who can barely afford to drive is paying.

To make matters worse, this money is being taken away from those who are struggling the most and being used for something we were already supposed to have the funding for from previous tax increases.

This isn’t right.

It’s a scam, and as Californians, we need to stick up for ourselves.

Luckily, by voting yes on Prop 6 to repeal this tax, we can do just that.

The issue that sticks out day after day for most Californians is the sorry state of our roads and freeways. Everyone sees this, and everyone knows it’s something that must be solved before it seriously impacts our economy’s ability to grow and everyone’s ability to get where they want to go.

So Democrats in the State Legislature would have you

The Daily Aztec

necessary evil.

But that’s what they said last time they raised gas taxes for the same exact reason.

(Spoiler alert: they lied.)

After the last gas tax increase, which is still in effect with us paying a total of 95.5 cents per gallon, including the recent increase, some roads were built and repaired.

Albeit, a fraction of what was

same loopholes as the last, plus one that doesn’t actually require the taxes to be used for roads.

The worst part is this was passed without a vote from the people or a single vote from any Republican state legislator.

This was possible because up until Ling-Ling Chang took the Fullerton-Yorba Linda State Senate seat, the Democratic party had a supermajority, meaning

“Picture, if you will, a single mother with several kids. She works two jobs and has to pick up and drop off her kids from school, all of which is beyond walking distance with spotty public transit.

She is barely scraping by. But now with the gas tax increase, prices at the pump are even higher. This means she’ll be deciding between gas and food or gas and school supplies for her children.

That’s the kind of person who is most affected by this regressive tax.

believe they have the solution: that you and I have to fork over more money at the pump.

That it will be a small price to pay, and a necessary one, for California’s future. Because all the money raised by the tax would, theoretically, go toward fixing potholes and building more infrastructure.

Jerry Brown, Josh Newman and the entire Democratic establishment would have you believe punishing California’s more vulnerable people is a

planned and spending an average of 2.5 times what other states spend for every mile of road.

Another billion of the tax money was illegally transferred to the general fund, meaning it could be used for any government expense and much of the rest was funneled into slush funds or otherwise wasted.

The money may as well have been incinerated.

They say it won’t be like last time and the promises will be kept, but this tax increase has the

any law could be passed by them, even a change to the State Constitution, without any support whatsoever from anyone outside the party.

That’s more like oligarchy than democracy.

Picture, if you will, a single mother with several kids. She works two jobs and has to pick up and drop off her kids from school, all of which is beyond walking distance and with spotty public transit.

She is barely scraping by. But

now with the gas tax increase, prices at the pump are even higher. This means she’ll be deciding between gas and food or gas and school supplies for her children.

That’s the kind of person who is most affected by this regressive tax. There are thousands of people in this situation. They can’t afford an extra 12 cents per gallon.

Neither can many of our commuter students. Many of them commute from North County or South Bay and are going broke struggling to pay for both ever-increasing tuition and ever-increasing gas prices.

On Nov. 6, even if you don’t drive, come to the polls and vote yes on Prop 6. Your vote will tell rich politicians they can’t take from the poor and enrich themselves.

Demand they use tax money wisely and not take the hardearned pay from Californians for granted.

Because, if Prop 6 fails, they’ll know they can get away with taking advantage of the poor, and it won’t stop any time soon.

But if it passes, our gas prices will decrease significantly and every gas tax increase for now on will require a vote by the people.

A yes vote is a vote for democracy and a vote for our poor and struggling brothers and sisters.

Miles Streicek is a sophomore studying finance.

Rent control will worsen California’s Sick of adjusting the housing crisis. Vote ‘no’ on Prop 10 time? ‘Yes’ on Prop 7

by Catherine STAFF WRITER

Van Weele

Prop 10 will be on California’s ballot this November.

If passed, it will repeal the 1995 Costa-Hawkins Act. This act prevents the implementation of rent control on single-family housing and apartments built after 1995.

Prop 10 would give cities and counties the ability to create their own rent control policies to address the needs of their local area.

Currently, there is no singlefamily housing rent control policy anywhere in the United States and there are no federal laws on rent control.

California has the fastest rising housing costs, outpacing the rate of the nation as a whole The majority of the renters in California spend more than 30 percent of their incomes on housing, with 1.5 million spending more than 50 percent of their incomes.

California also has the highest poverty rate in the United States and is home to 25 percent of the nation’s homeless population.

Nevertheless, Prop 10 is not the strong and comprehensive

piece of legislation Californians need to address the growing housing crisis.

Rent control creates a price ceiling by restricting the amount landowners are able to charge their tenants.

There are a few proven benefits to rent control.

It has been shown to help long-term residents from being forced out from their homes due to rising costs, and it prevents displacing people from the lower working class and minority groups.

However, rent control is only a short-term solution to a complex and ever-growing issue.

Most economists would agree the price ceiling created by a rent control policy produces a shortage.

It reduces the quantity and quality of available housing.

Rent control leads to more long-term residencies since these tenants have fewer incentives to move out as they are paying low costs for their rent.

But this negatively affects the people actively seeking a place to live because it makes it more difficult to find somewhere that is affordable.

Rent control harms landlords

of rent-controlled buildings because the earnings they receive are often far below the market price.

There is also less incentive for landlords to maintain and improve their buildings as they receive little to no returns for investing in further development of their properties.

Prop 10 would localize rent control, which could potentially result in a patchwork of cities and counties with rent control policies across the state, leading to further gentrification.

Rent control alone will not solve California’s housing crisis, in fact, it will cause the problem to worsen in the long run by further contribution.

California needs legislation that funds affordable housing especially for the working class.

Vote no on Prop 10 this November and instead encourage California legislators to pass laws focusing on efficiently constructing new housing developments to meet the needs of its expanding population.

Catherine Van Weele is a freshman studying political science.

by Jermelle STAFF WRITER

Macleod

Proposition 7 conforms daylight saving time to federal law, which means the legislature, with a two-thirds vote, could change daylight saving time if the change is allowed by the federal government.

In even simpler terms, there would be no need to set your clocks forward or back an hour depending on the seasonal time change.

This would mean the body would run on its own clock instead of being forced to adjust to yet another time change, and such adjustments have been proven to have horrible effects on the body.

Researchers have shown heart attacks increase in the days following the March clock adjustment and students are more likely to be depressed and stressed due to the body’s sleep schedule being knocked out of alignment.

Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have to constantly adjust our sleep schedules?

Only issue is, there are some drawbacks.

From November to February in places like Twentynine Palms and certain places in Los Angeles, more and more people would be

heading to school or work in the dark which could be dangerous for a number of reasons.

For example, children crossing the street may not be seen by drivers, or drivers may not see each other very clearly.

Children would be waiting for the schoolbus in the dark and parents would be driving their children to school in the dark.

The most obvious counterargument would be there are plenty of sources of light around , and if there aren’t, the city can build them.

Plus, wouldn’t drivers be more alert on a consistent sleeping schedule that won’t change.

A more pragmatic counter argument is that we would be able to enjoy more afternoon daylight between November and March and students wouldn’t be as stressed out and absentminded during class due to their sleep schedule being toyed with.

All in all, Proposition 7 would allow us to get more rest and as a result increase productivity and the general morale.

Also, there would be less stress and depression when the next time change occurs.

Jeremelle MacLeod is a freshman studying philosophy. You can follow him on Twitter @jeremelle_m.

Opinion SDSU West and Soccer City are far too confusing. If you’re unsure, vote ‘no’ on Measure G and Measure E 6

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Kemi Giwa • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

by Hannah Goldstone CONTRIBUTOR

We’ve seen the signs, the campaigns, everybody urging us to register to vote.

There are many important initiatives on the ballot this election season, and the one that has every San Diegan talking is Measure G and Measure E. This measure will decide what will become of the SDCCU Stadium in Mission Valley.

I’ve seen advertisements in favor of SoccerCity for more than a year now.

Before, I didn’t care, but now that I see how it could potentially affect my community, my school and my city, I definitely care now.

Whichever measure wins come this election day will surely have a major impact in San Diego and will signifcantly impact SDSU. These measures on the upcoming ballot that are quite relevant to SDSU and our surrounding communities: Soccer City’s Measure E and SDSU West’s Measure G. Both measures aim to utilize and reinvent the prime real estate in Mission Valley that was left behind by the Chargers football team.

Essentially, Measure E wants the city-owned site to be redeveloped by a La Jolla-based investment group (FS Investors), “Soccer City,” and turned into a major league soccer stadium, office space, retail space, apartment complexes and hotels.

SDSU’s Measure G wants the land to rebuild an even larger football stadium, academic research facilities, affordable housing for students and faculty, retail spaces and hotels.

Both competing visions also desire and prioritize the development of a river park.

At face value, one might vote for either measure depending on whether or not they value sports or education more.

Although SDSU West does plan on rebuilding a football stadium, they campaign with expansion of research and technological buildings as its priority, not the sports stadium.

Both proposals include similar development of retail and office space, housing and hotels.

Personally, I’ve never really thought that the city of San Diego valued sports all that much.

Sure, we pack stadiums full of fans during a game, and who can forget we were once home of the Chargers football team.

But, still I think most Americans associate San Diegans with the beach, delicious Mexican food and sunny weather before football or soccer.

The next deciding factor is what either of these measures will cost us if implemented Competing opinions about whether one measure will bring in more tax revenue or cost the taxpayers more are inconclusive and all over the place.

Measure G claims it will not require student fee raises, but I’m a bit skeptical of that considering the fact that there’s still been some grey area in regards to the details.

And others are skeptical of Measure E’s investor’s sources of income and whether or not they will truly be able to finance this massive project.

Personally, I think there needs to be more fiscal impact analyses conducted before we can really claim which measure does what.

Both masures claim they are complying with sustainability standards, will raise employment and create jobs, and won’t affect student tuitions or raise taxes.

This all sounds great, but there is a just too much vagueness in each proposal.

Measure E claims there will be room for an SDSU campus

extension somehow, while with Measure G, a campus extension could take decades to complete.

Neither measure has stated how it would address the impacts construction would have on local traffic or city revenue for other public schools.

What it really comes down to

“Personally, I think there needs to be more fiscal impact analyses conducted before we really claim what measure does what...there is just too much vagueness in each proposal.” is the question of how we want to reinvent ourselves as a city.

What should we, as San Diegans, be prioritizing with this opportunity?

If I had to choose, I lean more toward supporting SDSU West simply because San Diego is home to so many research universities, therefore, I think we should expand our facilities and prioritize academic growth

over soccer and entertainment.

Currently, polls show public favor toward Measure G as well.

But like I said, there are just too many unanswered questions and uncertain details about either measure.

Not only that, but it’s a also an extremely diffult and complex issue.

It would’ve been nice if either side took more time to actively and effectively educate us about what each measure would mean.

Though each side offers a pretty significant amount of information, it’s still hard to decide what will actually happen to the land.

It’s too unclear.

We should resist the urge to pick a measure just to say we picked one, or just so something, anything can be done with the land.

We should make a wellinformed decision.

The decision that will benefit the most people, while simulatenously benefiting the city.

If this situation sounds like a shot in the dark, as favorable as these campaigns may seem, make the choice to vote no on both Measure E and Measure G. Hannah Goldstone is a junior studying journalism.

Patients deserve inexpensive, quality treatment. They deserve better than Prop 8

by Sydney Karlos STAFF WRITER

When I first encountered the description of Proposition 8, I thought immediately that I’d vote for it.

The measure states that it “regulates the amount of outpatient kidney dialysis clinics charge for dialysis treatment.”

I’m sure you can guess why I would mmediately think to vote ‘yes.’

But, after reading more into the details of the proposition, and doing more reasearch, I concluded that voting yes on Prop 8 is actually extremely dangerous.

Voting yes on Prop 8 will have a drastic impact on the state of California.

Prop 8 will cause community dialysis clinics to reduce their services and eventually close.

By limiting what insurance companies have to pay for dialysis care, clinics will lose a lot of money, which will reduce the amount of treatment they can provide.

When professionals analyzed this proposition, they found that Prop 8 will result in 83 percent of dialysis clinics operating at a loss.

Additionally, hundreds of

clinics will close across the state, leaving people who are very sick or those with kidney failure basically stranded.

To make matters worse, passing this prop will also lead a rise in life-threatening conditions.

Many doctors and other healthcare professionals strongly

On the other hand, many people in favor of Prop 8 argue it will lower healthcare costs for everyone.

This is not true.

Taxpayers pay for healthcare.

If certain groups of people want free healthcare, that means taxpayers will pay more in taxes to provide to that need.

Seniors.

While this is true, the proposition is actually opposed by thousands of healthcare professionals and dialysis patients.

I think it is fair to conclude if the patients receiving this treatment oppose the proposition, then it is probably

“When professionals analyzed this proposition, they found that Prop 8 will result in 83 percent of dialysis clinics operating at a loss. Additionally hundreds of clinics will close across the state, leaving people who are very sick or those with kidney failure basically stranded.” oppose voting yes.

Many of them see this prop as harmful to patients receiving dialysis and believe voting yes will increase the risk of lifethreatening complications involved in the treatment.

In addition, voting yes will actually increase the cost of taxes for all Californians.

According to Voterguide, “this measure will increase taxpayer costs nearly $300 million annually.”

The risk of clinics closing will cause patients to go to the emergency room, which ultimately hurts taxpayers.

However, dialysis corporations overcharge patients.

California’s top dialysis clinic charges some patients as much as 350 percent above the actual costs of providing care, or as much as $150,000 per year.

This actually makes healthcare more expensive for all of us, not just dialysis patients.

Many people in favor also argue Prop 8 is supported by a wide range of healthcare professionals and organizations.

Some of these organizations include Dialysis Advocates, LLC, Californians for Disability Rights and Congress of California

not a good thing.

Organizations like American Nurses Association and California Medical Association are largely against this proposition.

In fact, they suggest that Prop 8 will severely limit what insurance companies are required to pay for dialysis care.

Moreover, according to these notable organizations, these arbitrary limits will not cover the actual cost of providing care.

These organizations are not only more credible, but they are far more well known within the medical community than the

organizations that support the proposition.

Personally, I would rather listen to the the notable, trusted associations on their stance instead of an organization many have never even heard of before.

While I can see why some support this, as I did at one time, it’s a terrible decision to make for the state.

Ultimately, when I read the proposition would make dialysis treatment less expensive, I thought it was an amazing idea and could not understand why anyone would not support that As I looked into it though, I realized the proposition was not the best decision and would do more harm than good for patients.

I believe there are better ways to make healthcare and treatments cheaper for patients than Prop 8.

An option that doesn’t put patients risk and skyrocket the costs of healthcare.

Californians, join doctors, nurses and patient advocates and vote against this proposition that will put dialysis patients at even more risk.

Vote no on Prop 8.

Sydney Karlos is a freshman studying journalism.

News

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

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San Diego’s 2018 ballot, explained CANDIDATES

Kevin de León CONTEST: California Senate PARTY: Democrat Kevin de León is a Democratic candidate challenging current U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a fellow Democrat who is running for her fifth term. De León was elected as State Senate president pro tempore on June 19, 2014 and held the position until March 21. He was the first

Latino to hold the position in over a century.

His top three priorities are to pass comprehensive immigration reform, implement Medicare for all and to enact a national clean energy plan. He played a key role this year in constructing a bipartisan deal to extend California’s cap-and-trade program that tackled diesel pollution and generated $1 billion in revenue. The deal has bolstered California’s position as the nation’s clean-energy leader. Through de León’s efforts, California may be able to

run on 100 percent renewable energy by 2045.

The son of an immigrant, de León is passionate about reforming immigration laws and has worked at improving them by passing various acts such as SB 54, the bill that prohibited state and local law enforcement agencies from using resources to investigate and arrest people for immigration enforcement purposes.

De León has received endorsements from the National Nurses United and the California Labor Federation.

universal health care, end gun violence and focus on DACA and immigration reform. Feinstein created a bill called the Protect Our Food from Phthalate Contamination Act that banned harmful chemicals known as phthalates from contaminating food supplies. This bill has made major strides in how the nation regulates chemicals in consumer products.

Feinstein also advocates for stronger gun regulation, directly challenging President Trump by supporting legislation to ban assault weapons. On immigration reform,

she has been a committed supporter by advocating for the passage of the Dream Act and protections for immigrant children. She rescinded President Trump’s three executive orders that imposed travel bans and became a cosponsor of Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy’s S. 1979 bill that would block presidential actions that restrict individuals from certain countries from entering the United States.

She has received endorsements from former President Barack Obama and California’s other senator, Kamala Harris.

the state’s affordability by bringing down the cost of living for all Californians, reducing housing costs and easing traffic by reducing commute times through the construction of improved roads and highways.

Cox wishes to bring down living costs by streamlining the approval process for building housing and removing barriers put in place by special interests. He also plans to enroll a commission to come up with a plan to improve California’s tax system that doesn’t include any increases

in revenue.

Cox opposes the high-speed rail project, believing there are better ways to invest in roads, highways and more efficient transit projects. If elected, he will call for CEQA reform for highway projects in which roads and highways will be improved under the California Environmental Quality Act. Cox has received endorsements from the Los Angeles Daily News, the (Riverside) Press-Enterprise and the San Bernardino Sun.

development project that focused on shifting from jobs for a consumptionbased economy to a production economy that focused on global trade.

His top three priorities are to defend LGBT, immigrants and workers rights as well as climate change, to stimulate opportunities within the state by implementing a new job-training system and to push for criminal justice reform and build California’s future by investing in affordable housing, roads and highways.

If elected, Newsom will lead the effort to

develop 3.5 million new housing efforts by 2025. He also plans on launching college savings accounts for every incoming kindergartner across the state as well as equipping every student with access to STEM education by opening access to various STEM courses if elected as Governor.

Newsom has received endorsements from the California Labor Federation, California Federation of Teachers, Senator Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Alex Padilla.

been a Republican member of the House of Representatives for the 52nd, 45th and 42nd districts from 1981 to 2009.

Hunter’s top priorities are cutting taxes for working families, advocating for the lives of unborn babies and securing the border with stronger enforcement of immigration laws.

Hunter’s featured endorsements include the California Republican Assembly, the California Pro-Life Council and the National Rifle Association.

He was previously a lieutenant in the

U.S. Marines Corps, a combat veteran in Iraq and Afghanistan and is also the incumbent Congressman for the district since January 2013 after serving two terms in the 52nd district.

As of Aug. 21, he and his wife have been indicted for using $250,000 of campaign funds for personal use and for filing false campaign finance records.

They are scheduled for trial on Dec. 3.

Hunter also graduated from Granite Hills High School and is an SDSU alumnus.

His top priorities are focusing on apprenticeship job training programs, prioritizing healthcare as a human right, bringing universal healthcare to the U.S. and “defending the American Dream” through immigration reform.

He is endorsed by the California Labor Federation, the California Democratic Party and the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC. His previous experience includes being the Deputy Regional Field Director for

President Obama’s reelection campaign in 2012 and being appointed as the Public Affairs Officer in the U.S. Department of Labor in 2016.

The 29-year-old, who is trilingual in English, Spanish and Arabic is also campaigning on improving the Affordable Care Act by having Medicare negotiate pharmaceutical prices, adding a public option and allowing people as young as 50 to buy into Medicare.

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Dianne Feinstein CONTEST: California Senate PARTY: Democrat Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat, is the incumbent for one of California’s two seats in the U.S. Senate, where she’s seeking her fifth full term. Her first tenure as California Senator began in 1992 and she has since served in the position four times.

Her top three priorities are to push Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

John Cox CONTEST: California Governor PARTY: Republican John Cox is the Republican candidate for governor of California. In the past, he was a businessman who also worked as an accountant and attorney in Chicago.

He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and political science from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

His top three priorities are improving Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Gavin Newsom CONTEST: California Governor PARTY: Democrat Gavin Newsom is the Democratic candidate for governor of California. He is currently the 49th lieutenant governor of California and is a former San Francisco mayor, serving for seven years. During his time as lieutenant governor, he was the chief architect of California’s Economic Growth and Competitiveness Agenda, a workforce Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Duncan D. Hunter CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA50 PARTY: Republican Duncan D. Hunter is the current Republican candidate challenging local business owner Ammar Campa-Najjar from the 50th district congressional seat.

Hunter’s predecessor is his own father, also named Duncan Hunter, who has Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Ammar Campa-Najjar CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA50 PARTY: Democrat Ammar Campa-Najjar is the Democratic candidate running for congressman in California’s 53rd district against incumbent Duncan D. Hunter.

He is a Latino-Arab American who was born in east San Diego County.

Courtesy of @ACampaNajjar

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Susan Davis CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA53 PARTY: Democrat Susan Davis is the current house representative for California’s 53rd district and is competing against Morgan Murtaugh in this year’s election.

Davis is representing the Democratic Party in this race and is the incumbent

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

candidate who has served in her position as a member of Congress since 2001.

Prior to her political career, she worked as a social worker and as the director of a mentoring program for youth.

If she is elected for another term, one of Davis’ top three priorities will be working to increase wages, with a particular focus on advocating for equitable pay for women. As a military spouse and senior member of the Armed Services Committee, she also would like to support military personnel and

their families through various benefit programs.

She is also running on an education platform, hoping to increase access to education by working toward a more affordable college system and decreasing student loan debt. Davis also hopes to increase both STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — and pre-kindergarten programs.

She has been endorsed by the California Federation of Teachers and The California League of Conservation Voters.

throughout the national election and represents the Republican Party in this race. Her experience is as a political commentator, and she has a Political Communications degree from George Washington University.

If elected, her top priorities would include improvements to the Social Security system to prevent potential crashes in the future. Murtaugh supports efforts to revamp the Veteran Affairs system to benefit veterans more efficiently. She would also like to

streamline and simplify the way taxes are filed to allow citizens to file taxes on their own.

Murtaugh supports proposals to build a wall along the border of the United States and Mexico as a means to support Border Patrol agents as a measure of safety and efficiency. She also supports gun ownership rights, amendments to the North American Free Trade Agreement and changes to the Affordable Care Act. She has been endorsed by conservative Florida congressman Matt Gaetz.

for FuelCell Energy, director and cofounder of Sustain OC, vice president for FlexEnergy and previous work as an environmental attorney. He was also the executive director of the Democratic Party of Orange County from 2006 to 2007.

Levin is an advocate of clean energy who hopes to increase protection of the environment and support sustainable energy efforts if elected in this season.

He also lists fighting for women’s rights as one of his priorities, hoping to work

toward equal pay for men and women.

He also supports efforts to expand the Affordable Care Act, as well as the concept of Medicare for all.

Developing gun laws that help to limit private sales of guns and ban the sale of assault weapons is an issue that Levin supports. He supports efforts to expand background checks for those applying for gun licenses.

Levin has received endorsements from The Sierra Club and the California Teachers Association.

and as a business woman for 30 years, and she has helped to support the development of businesses owned by women. Harkey served as the cochair of the campaign to repeal the gas tax, an issue she continues to support in addition to reforming the tax laws. She also helps to support the economy through entrepreneurship and enforceable immigration and visa programs.

Her other top priorities include creating jobs, improving the economy

and supporting veterans through reformations to Veterans Affairs. If elected, she aims to improve the affordable healthcare system by increasing access to mental healthcare, supporting efforts that would prevent opioid addiction and allowing doctors and individual patients to decide on their best health plans.

Building a border wall, where feasible, and enhancing security of the border are other priorities that she hopes to uphold if elected.

since 2013.

Scott Peters’ top priorities are helping small businesses grow, ensuring American veterans are getting adequate healthcare benefits and standing up to the Trump Administration. He does not support spending money on building a wall and instead believes America needs innovative technology to detect underground tunnels used to smuggle drugs and people.

His featured endorsements include the Democratic Congressional

Campaign Committee, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, the California Medical Association PAC and the California League of Conservation Voters.

Previously, he has been appointed as the Commissioner and Chairman of the San Diego Unified Port District.

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Morgan Murtaugh CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA53 PARTY: Republican Morgan Murtaugh is competing against incumbent candidate Susan Davis in this year’s U.S. House of Representatives election for California’s 53rd district.

At 26 years old, Murtaugh is the youngest Congressional candidate Courtesy of Morgan Murtaugh on Facebook

Mike Levin CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA49 PARTY: Democrat Mike Levin is representing the Democratic Party in the U.S. House of Representatives race for California’s 49th district seat against Diane Harkey.

His prior experience includes working as the director of government affairs Courtesy of @MikeLevinCA

Diane Harkey CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA49 PARTY: Republican Diane Harkey is running for the U.S. House of Representatives in California’s 49th district as the Republican Party candidate against Mike Levin.

Her previous experience includes working as a taxpayer representative Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Scott Peters CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA52 PARTY: Democrat Democratic Congressman Scott Peters is running for congress against Omar Qudrat to take the seat of the U.S. representative of the 52nd district in California. He is the incumbent congressman and has been in his seat Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Omar Qudrat

Courtesy of @OmarQudrat1

CONTEST: House of Representatives, CA52 PARTY: Republican

Omar Qudrat is the Republican candidate running against current Congressman Scott Peters for role as the U.S. representative in the 52nd district.

He grew up in Los Angeles with his two sisters after his Muslim parents immigrated from Afghanistan in the ‘70s.

He credits his parents for raising him and his two sisters with resilience, something that has propelled him to advocate for every child in the nation to have an equal shot at the American Dream.

Previously, he was a former counterterrorism attorney officer who also prosecuted terrorists at Guantanamo Bay as a U.S. Department Defense official. He worked on implementing the Counter Insurgency Strategy in Afghanistan as the Deputy Chief of Rule of Law and Political Advisor to the NATO

Ambassador.

He also worked for the team that prosecuted the alleged 9/11 masterminds before spending 18 months in Afghanistan during the surge as a Defense Department official.

His top priorities are to combat veteran homelessness, reform education, promote job growth and success for both small businesses and major employers, as well as to stop homeland terrorist attacks.

His featured endorsements include the California State Assembly, Republican Jewish Coalition, The Republican Party of San Diego County and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Qudrat earned his bachelor’s degree at UCLA before studying law at Syracuse Law School.

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Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 • Editor: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

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Dear San Diego Community, Growing up, I heard my grandmother say, “Dime con quién andas y te diré quien eres.” (Tell me who you hang out with and I will tell you who you are). I believe she would be proud of the company I’m keeping in this community we call home.

I fell in love with San Diego State University and San Diego even before I submitted my application to become president. And every day I am here, my love grows stronger for SDSU and for the phenomenal city which we serve through our graduates, faculty, staff, and students.

Just over 100 days ago, I arrived to begin my tenure as the ninth president of San Diego State University.

I showed up with a promise to begin a listening tour that would inform my decisions moving forward.

Hundreds of conversations with students, faculty, staff, alums, and community members later, what resonates with me are the stories about SDSU’s 121-year legacy as part of San Diego’s family. I have heard about the groundbreaking teaching, research, and creative activities taking place on our campus and in all parts of this community. And I have sensed in the DNA of our faculty and staff that our San Diego State University community is ready to imagine greater contributions to San Diego over the next 121 years.

What surprised me the most, unlike anything I’ve seen in my 35 years in higher education, is that 61 percent of SDSU graduates choose to stay in San Diego and put their degrees to work in this community. Everywhere I go, I meet someone who is connected to the university. Alums who are now leading industries or companies in San Diego. Elected officials who represent and lead our city, county, and region. Innovative small business owners who make a difference in every corner of the region. Entrepreneurs, scientists, journalists, inventors, artists, military officers, healthcare professionals, engineers, and teachers—to name a few.

At the end of the day, San Diego State University is a crucial and strategic partner to the region, especially since the state projects a shortage of more than one million college graduates entering the workforce by 2030. Last year alone, we received over 93,000 applications from highly qualified students, but we could admit only a fraction of them.

As we think about the next chapter of San Diego State University, I want us to honor this legacy. But I also want us to do more as we look toward the next chapter of our community’s continued growth and development. I want us to address the shortage of leaders and professionals our region will face in the next two decades. To meet future demands for an educated workforce, we must increase our capacity to serve more students and recruit more faculty and staff.

Inevitably, our desire to serve the public good in this region more comprehensively, combined with our capacity to do so, brings us back to our plan for SDSU Mission Valley.

SDSU Mission Valley isn’t simply a business transaction. It is a family legacy project, a blueprint for long-term growth that deepens the 121-year partnership between the university and the community.

My hope is that by the time my next 100 days as president conclude, SDSU and San Diego community members will be busy working together to begin executing on the vision all San Diegans can be proud of for generations to come.

Adela de la Torre SDSU President

10

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PROPOSITIONS AND MEASURES PROPOSITION 6 Proposition 6 is about repealing a 2017 tax on vehicle fuel dedicated to road repairs and public transportation. It will essentially require the Legislature to get voter approval for future fuel and vehicle taxes in the future, while eliminating the fuel and vehicle tax from 2017.

Those in favor of repealing the tax argue it will lower gas prices and the money that has already been paid for this tax is sufficient enough for road repairs. They say because California has a $16 million surplus in its budget, politicians need to better allocate the money toward roads, bridges and highways.

Meanwhile, those not in favor argue the 2017 tax will continue to fund highway and road repairs, transportation systems and other future projects. They also say Prop 6 will eliminate $5 billion that is annually used in transportation funding as well as threaten projects that are currently in progress.

PROPOSITION 7 Proposition 7 would open the door for the California State Legislature to end daylight savings time. If passed, the proposition will allow the Legislature to change daylight savings time with a two-thirds vote if approved

by the federal government. If it fails, Californians will continue changing their clocks in the spring and fall. No change is likely to immediately occur even if the proposition does pass.

Those in favor of the proposition argue there are considerable public health benefits to eliminating daylight savings time.

Those in opposition to the proposition cite a 1974 decision where former president Nixon eliminated daylight savings time and most people were upset with the late sunrises that resulted.

PROPOSITION 10 Proposition 10 would repeal the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act of 1995, thus allowing local governments to implement rent control policies.

Those in favor believe rent is too high — average rents in San Diego County have gone up at more than double the rate of inflation — and local communities need to set limitations on rent increases.

Those against say Prop 10 will put bureaucrats in charge of housing and erode the free market. They also argue the prop will worsen California’s housing shortage by de-incentivizing developers from building more rental housing.

PROPOSITION 12 Proposition 12 would establish space requirements based on square footage for confining egg-laying hens, calves raised

for veal and breeding pigs. The prop would also ban the sale of eggs, as well as uncooked pork and veal, that do not meet those requirements.

California already has minimum standards for cage size, but they are based on animal movement. It also already bans the sale of eggs from hens raised in non-compliant cages, but has no restrictions on the sale of uncooked pork or veal raised in places that don’t meet requirements.

Supporters of the proposition hope to prevent animal cruelty as well as protect families from food poisoning and factory farm pollution.

Those opposed to Prop 12 say this proposition has been promoted as a cage-free measure, but rather legalizes the continued use of cages and is broadly applying one measurement for various kinds of animals. The proposition could potentially cost $10 million in state costs to annually enforce, they say.

MEASURE D Measure D changes the process for electing members of certain countywide offices. In the current process, all candidates are placed on the primary ballot, and if a candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote in the primary, they are elected outright and do not appear on the November ballot. If Measure D is approved, the two candidates with the most votes in the primary election

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

move on to the general election, regardless of whether a majority vote occurred in the primaries.

Those in favor of the measure say as most people vote in November and some do not follow the primary contests, Measure D would ensure county leaders are elected by a majority of the electorate. Those in opposition to the measure say a second election would use additional tax dollars, even when a candidate receives more votes than their opponents in the primary election.

MEASURE E Measure E, or the SoccerCity initiative, involves the leasing and privately funded redevelopment of the SDCCU Stadium property and the former Chargers practice facility on Murphy Canyon Road.

The measure would allow FS Investors, a private development group, to lease the stadium site for 99 years for the development of a major league soccer stadium and a sports and entertainment complex.

If approved, the measure would adopt a specific plan for the site, meaning development built would not have to be debated and voted upon publicly. Those in favor of this measure say it would bring Major League Soccer to San Diego and provide a new football stadium for SDSU. They say it comes at no cost to taxpayers and would create about 26,000 new jobs.

Those in opposition to Measure

E say it is not an appropriate use for the land, and it does not guarantee a soccer team will move to San Diego. Additionally, since the land would be sold privately, the development is not subject to review by City Council or the public.

MEASURE G Measure G, or the SDSU West Initiative, involves the sale of the Mission Valley stadium property to San Diego State University or an SDSU-affiliated organization or entity. The sale of the property would allow for SDSU to demolish the existing stadium and build upon 132 acres of land. A plan for redevelopment of the property has been proposed by SDSU, but the ballot measure itself does not guarantee a specific development.

Those in favor of Measure G say the sale of the property would permit various educational, recreational and residential uses for SDSU. The development would provide a permanent home for SDSU football and other professional athletics and potential new housing development to allow for more students to be admitted.

Those in opposition to Measure G say there is potential for private developers to purchase the land, not just SDSU. Opponents have argued it is unclear how the university would fund the development and neighborhoods are not guaranteed any public benefits.

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Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

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Aztecs fail to tame Wolf Pack in defeat

by Abraham Jewett SPORTS EDITOR

San Diego State football has made a living with close games and fourth quarter comebacks this season, but the prospect of a 99-yard drive with under a minute left proved too much for the Aztecs on Saturday night against the University of Nevada.

SDSU (6-2, 3-1 MW) found itself in a familiar position, needing a late drive to earn a come-from-behind victory, but could not complete its fifth fourth quarter comeback of the year, falling 28-24 to the Wolf Pack at Mackay Stadium.

The Aztecs got one final chance after converting a critical third-down stop, but Nevada’s subsequent punt pinned them back at their own 1-yard line with 58 seconds to play.

Redshirt junior quarterback Ryan Agnew drove the team down to the Wolf Pack 35-yard line, but his last second hail mary heave was knocked down at the goal line as time expired.

The loss ended a six-game-winning streak for SDSU and resulted in its first conference defeat of the season.

Despite coming up short, Agnew had his career best statistical game as the starter, throwing for 283 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions.

Agnew threw for only 86 yards in SDSU’s victory a week before against San Jose State, eclipsing that total by the end of the Aztecs first two drives against the Wolf Pack (5-4, 3-2 MW).

Courtesy of Ernie Anderson, SDSU Athletics

Sophomore running back Chase Jasmin attempts to split a pair of defenders during the Aztecs’ 28-24 loss to Nevada on Oct. 27 at Mackay Stadium in Reno.

Sophomore running back Chase Jasmin and junior tight end Kahale Warring were the beneficiaries of three Agnew first-half touchdown tosses, with Jasmin taking in a pass from two yards out and Warring scoring from 24 and 30 yards.

The Aztecs offense stalled in the second half, however, with all of their points coming as the team built a 24-15 lead going into the halftime break.

In the second half, the Wolf Pack used two third quarter scores, a two-yard touchdown run from freshman running

Women’s soccer season ends against New Mexico

by Abraham Jewett SPORTS EDITOR

A light fog settled over the SDSU Sports Deck on Oct. 26, the scene of the regular season finale for San Diego State women’s soccer against the University of New Mexico.

Foggier than the field was the Aztecs playoff hopes, with the team needing a victory to secure the final spot in the Mountain West Conference postseason tournament.

It was not meant to be.

SDSU (6-10-3, 4-4-3 MW) kept it close with a goal in the first half but fell 3-1 against a high-powered Lobos side, which finished with a 16-11 shot advantage.

With the loss, SDSU finished eighth in the MWC standings, failing to reach the postseason.

“We didn’t give a performance that we needed to give to put ourselves in a position to be in the conference tournament,” head coach Mike Friesen said. “Honestly, we just weren’t good enough.”

The Aztecs began the day in sixth place in the MWC standings, the final spot eligible for next week’s playoff, which is set to be hosted by San Jose State.

Unfortunately for SDSU, a victory by Colorado College over Air Force earlier in the day meant the team needed a win to earn a playoff berth.

“We’ve certainly been pretty good at dealing with pressure over the years, but this group is young and inexperienced,” Friesen said. “I just don’t think they anticipate what that environment’s going to be like, and so we just didn’t have it.”

back Devonte Lee and a 32-yard field goal from senior kicker Ramiz Ahmed, to take the lead for good.

Nevada’s first points came on a safety near the end of the first quarter, after SDSU was called for a holding penalty in the end zone.

On the ensuing drive, the Wolf Pack took advantage of good field position, driving from midfield from for their first touchdown on a screen pass to freshman running back Toa Taua, who maneuvered down the right sideline for a 40-yard

touchdown catch-and-run.

Nevada took a brief 15-14 lead in the first half, following a 26-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Ty Gangi to junior wide receiver Brendan O’learyOrange with 8:50 left.

Gangi finished with 235 yards on the night to go along with his two touchdown passes.

SDSU will try to get back into the win column when it heads to New Mexico to take on the Lobos on Nov. 3 at Dreamstyle Stadium.

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New Mexico (11-5-2, 7-2-2 MW) came in with its playoff spot secured but was the early aggressor, taking the lead on a 13th-minute goal by senior midfielder Jennifer Munoz, completing a stretch which saw the Lobos get off six straight shots to begin the contest.

SDSU was able to equalize with a goal from freshman forward Taylor Moore-

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“We didn’t give a performance that we needed to give...”

– Mike Friesen, head coach

head in the 26th minute, but New Mexico tacked on goals from freshman forward Jadyn Edwards (38th minute) and Munoz (53rd minute) to complete the scoring.

Moorehead said her goal gave the Aztecs a boost, but ultimately was not enough as they became worn down as the game went on.

“We just started breaking down little by little, and just not building up as fast as we should of been and as we could have been,” she said. “It just didn’t work out today for us.”

SDSU recognized senior midfielder Nikolina Musto and redshirt junior goaltender Kate Hart before the game, as part of Senior Night festivities.

Musto played 73 minutes and said being honored before her final collegiate game was special.

“It was really awesome to be honored by these girls and to hear what they had to say about me as a person,” Musto said. “It was a really awesome night.”

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12

The Daily Aztec

Sports

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Photos: Cross country hosts Mountain West Championships at Morley Park

by Abraham Jewett SPORTS EDITOR

Women’s cross country finished 10th out of 11 teams in the Mountain West Conference championships on Oct. 26, hosting the event at Morley Park.

Freshman Renee Laurenzana led all SDSU runners in the standings with a total time of 23:16, good enough for 59th place.

Other Aztecs’ times and finishes included freshmen Marissa D’Atri (23:34.89, 66th place), Paige Comiso (23:52.5, 72nd), Alize Hartke (23:56.0, 73rd), Natalie Regalado (25:15.0, 82nd), Isabelle Davis (25:32.1, 85th), Natalie Medina (26:20.5, 87th), Caitlyn Couch (26:34.1, 89th) and sophomore Renee Phillips (23:34.5, 79th).

No. 3 New Mexico took first place in the event, with freshman Weini Kelati finishing first with a time of 19:49.3.

Next up for the Aztecs is the NCAA West Regionals in Sacramento on Nov. 9.

CAPTIONS: [LEFT] Freshman Alize Hartke running in the Mountain West Conference Cross-Country Championship meet at Morley Field on Oct. 26.

She finished 72nd in the 6K race with a time of 23:56. [BOTTOM] Sophomore Renee Phillips (left) and freshman Natalie Regalado (right) running in the Mountain West Conference Cross-Country Championship meet at Morley Field on Oct. 26. [RIGHT] Freshman Renee Laurenzana running in the Mountain West Conference Cross-Country Championship meet at Morley Field on Oct. 26. She finished 59th in the 6K race with a time of 23:16. Photos by David Pradel

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Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

sports

The Daily Aztec

13

Photo by Raymond Gorospe

Junior quarterback Ryan Agnew hands off to junior running back Juwan Washington during the Aztecs 28-21 victory over Arizona State on Sept. 15 at SDCCU Stadium.

COLUMN

Agnew deserves to play going forward

by Kyle Betz STAFF WRITER

San Diego State junior quarterback Ryan Agnew played his best game in an SDSU uniform against the University of Nevada.

In the first half alone, Agnew threw for a career-high three touchdowns and 14 completions.

On Sept. 8, Agnew was called upon to fill in for senior quarterback Christian Chapman against Sacramento State after Chapman went down with a knee injury. Agnew threw 11-for-17 for 159 yards and two interceptions in the Aztecs’ 2814 comeback win.

Given Chapman’s three-to-six week prognosis, he will be medically cleared to play on Nov. 3 against the University of New Mexico.

Head coach Rocky Long said Agnew will start against the Lobos, but Chapman will get some playing time in his return.

“Christian Chapman will play. It hasn’t been determined exactly when yet, but he will play at least one series in the first half,” Long said. “We’ll evaluate how he looks and how he does and develop a plan on well he looks.”

Regardless of who is named the starting quarterback moving forward, Agnew deserves playing time for the Aztecs.

His big-play ability, mobility and potential should not keep him off the field, even if Chapman is eventually named the starting quarterback.

The last time the Aztecs had three passing touchdowns in a game was Nov. 5, 2016 against the University of Hawai’i.

Agnew recorded a career-high in pass attempts (41) and passing yards (283) by

the end of the game, despite the Aztecs being held scoreless in the second half.

The most yards Chapman has thrown for in a single game was also 283, coming during his sophomore year against New Hampshire on Sept. 3, 2016.

Junior running back Juwan Washington, who remains sidelined with a collarbone fracture, said Agnew did a nice job relieving the ailing Chapman against Sacramento State.

“Agnew did a really good job coming in and making plays for our offense,” Washington said.

Agnew has a 5-1 record as SDSU’s starting quarterback this season. His most notable wins have come against former No. 23/25 Arizona State and then-rv/No. 24 Boise State.

Offensive coordinator Jeff Horton said the decision on the starting quarterback will be made once Chapman is cleared to play.

“When (Chapman’s) healthy, then we’ll have to make that decision,” Horton said.

One possibility for the Aztecs is the introduction of a two-quarterback system.

Horton said he has not ruled the idea out.

“It’s something we could look at.

Whichever way we go, obviously, Christian’s the all-time winningest quarterback and has done a bazillion good things for us,” Horton said. “Ryan has stepped in and, to me, done a remarkable job for us.

To me, that’s a good situation to have. I look at it as a plus. I think it makes the team better.”

Chapman is held in high regard by the SDSU coaching staff and Aztec faithful due to his status as the winningest quarterback in school history, but Agnew has attributes that Chapman lacks.

In Chapman’s career, he has 53 rushing yards on 167 attempts.

Agnew, on the other hand, has 55 rushes for 181 yards.

Chapman, who prefers slinging passes from inside the pocket, differs from Agnew, who often rolls out to make passes on the run.

Long said there wouldn’t be much of a difference on offense when either quarterback plays.

“I don’t think there’s a huge difference.

Christian won’t scramble around like Ryan does, so there won’t be as many guys trying to figure out where to go to get open like they do with Ryan out there,” Long said. “So Christian will probably throw the ball a little bit more on time.”

Since his relief appearance against Sacramento State, Agnew has only thrown two interceptions in six starts.

Offensive coordinator Jeff Horton said Agnew’s ability to take care of the football is essential to the offense’s success.

“He has played pretty well. I think he’s just like the rest of our team that are not veteran players,” Long said. “Even though he’s been around a while, he hasn’t played extensively until the last few weeks. He’s made a lot of plays to help us win.”

The Aztecs sit at 6-2, and part of that might be a result of Agnew’s ability to perform well in late-game situations.

Junior tight end Kahale Warring said Agnew has played a big role in the Aztecs’ close wins.

“He’s done a really good job. He’s been through a lot of tough situations, and he’s gotten us through a lot of tough situations,” Warring said. “There’s a lot of games where if he didn’t make some plays right at the end, we might not have won those games.”

Should Agnew continue to play quarterback for the Aztecs this season, each challenge he endures is a lesson learned.

“He’s gotten us through a lot of tough situations. There’s a lot of games where if he didn’t make some plays right at the end, we might not have won those games.”

– Kahale Warring junior tight end

“(Agnew has) done a pretty good job protecting the ball. He’s obviously made a ton of plays with his feet,” Horton said.

“He’s a weapon that way, just getting that experience is huge for him.”

Agnew only threw nine passes during his SDSU career prior to this season.

Long said Agnew has played well despite his lack of game time.

With Chapman graduating, Horton said Agnew’s game experience is important, especially entering next season.

“Going into his final year, (Agnew has) got a lot of playing time under his belt now, so I think that’s a win-win situation,” Horton said. “He’s proven he can lead this team and make plays down the stretch in crunch time to help us win.”

14

The Daily Aztec

basketball madness

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Introduction:

continued from page 1 was celebratory for head coach Brian Dutcher, who said he expects more of the same this season from his 6-foot-10 forward.

“We all know Jalen, we’ve seen him play,” Dutcher said. “He plays with such great energy and emotion, and I don’t think that will go away. He’s always playing to win.”

McDaniels will look to avoid a redshirt sophomore slump in his expanded role, and said the key to the season will be for himself and his teammates to focus on what they can control.

“We’ve just really got to focus on us,” he said. “Just make sure we’re on point, that we’re playing hard and that we’re executing. I feel like if we do that everything will just take care of itself.”

Jeremy Hemsley will join Watson and guard Michael Sohikish as the only returning seniors on the team, and he could reinsert himself as a fixture into the starting lineup following a one year hiatus.

Hemsley started only seven games last season, after starting a career-high 31 times in 201617, but Dutcher said he expects the veteran guard to take full advantage of his final year at State.

“I think Jeremy has put the work in, he’s had a great threeyear career and now he’s ready to have the kind of senior year he’s always dreamed about,” Dutcher said. “We will hopefully help him make that happen.”

The Aztecs may also be

File Photo

Jalen McDaniels eyes the basket during the Aztecs 94-56 victory over UNLV on Feb. 17 at Viejas Arena.

expecting more out of sophomore guard Jordan Schakel, a sharpshooter who could replace the departed deep-threat in Max Montana, and junior forward Nolan Narain, who played sparingly last year but made his mark when out on the court.

Narain can fill up the stat sheet in a hurry, as evidenced by his 18 points in 18 minute during last years home victory against University of Wyoming.

In addition to the returning core, SDSU has added a strong batch of newcomers who should make an impact. The recruits who made the longest trek to the Mesa are Joel and Nathan Mensah. The brothers, originally from Ghana, match McDaniels and Narain

in height, standing at 6-foot-10 apiece.

Incoming freshman forward Ed Chang is another player who has the talent to be a difference maker, as the four-star recruit was named the top player in Nebraska before moving to Washington after his junior year of high school.

The Aztecs also have freshman forward Aguek Arop and redshirt freshman guard Adam Seiko, meaning five players could take the court for the first time this season.

Dutcher said he is open to giving his newcomers playing time, so long as they earn it.

“Our freshman will have an adjustment period, and how quickly they make it will

determine if they’re able to fight their way into meaningful minutes or even a starting position,” he said.

SDSU will have three home games to start the season, beginning with an exhibition matchup against Chaminade on Nov. 1, before hopping on a plane to Hawaii to compete in the Maui Jim Maui Invitational. The early season tournament will be the first big test for the team, as Duke University awaits to kick off the invitational on Nov. 19.

The rest of the field does not get much easier, as it includes Gonzaga, Arizona, Auburn, Xavier, Illinois and Iowa State.

Winning this tournament would go a long way in putting the

Aztecs on the national radar and set them up with serious early season bragging rights.

Dutcher said he knows his players get excited to play talent from outside of their own conference.

“As much we know the value of the Mountain West Conference, and how hard it is, these kids want to play Pac-12, they want to play ACC they want to play Big10 teams,” Dutcher said. “And that’s a promise I made them when they came here.”

Another date to circle is Dec. 22, when SDSU welcomes in Brigham Young University for the first meeting between the two rivals since 2011. The Bears left to join the Western Athletic Conference after that year, making this matchup a long time coming.

Both University of San Diego and Cal Berkeley will also make pit stops at Viejas Arena this year, on Dec. 5 and Dec. 8, respectively, before the Aztecs kick off MW conference play with a road matchup on Jan. 5 against Boise State University.

Conference foe University of Nevada should provide a challenge for the Aztecs, as the Wolf Pack start the year ranked No. 7 in the AP Top 25 Poll. This is in large part do to the return of junior twins Cody and Caleb Martin, along with junior guard Jordan Caroline.

SDSU shellacked the same core of Nevada players by a score of 9073 in last years MW tournament, and the Aztecs will get their first crack at the conference’s newest heavyweight on Feb. 20 at Viejas Arena.

Aztecs will rely on youth in new season

by Aaron Tolentino ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

San Diego State women’s basketball heads into the 201819 season looking for its first winning season since 2012.

The Aztecs went 11-19 last year and graduated six seniors, leaving them with only two seniors on the roster.

Head coach Stacie Terry said the team’s inexperience this season brings a different dynamic.

“We have been talking about being hungry and being really competitive,” Terry said. “Right now, we don’t know what this team is going to be. We’re going to see where this year takes us.”

Sophomore guards Najé Murray and Téa Adams are expected to take on a larger scoring load, following the graduation of last year’s leading scorers Geena Gomez and

“I’ll do whatever it takes, if it’s charges, layups, loose balls.”

– Naje Murray, sophomore guard

McKynzie Fort.

Terry said she expects it to be a team-wide effort, but knows

File Photo

Najé Murray drives to the basket for two of her 14 points during SDSU’s 77-50 win over Presbyterian College on Nov. 10, 2017 at Viejas Arena.

Murray and Adams have the potential to play a huge role for the team.

“We’re going to be a team that does it by committee. Obviously, we’re aware with what Najé can do,” Terry said. “She showed that last year, so I expect big things from her. But also, Téa Adams is going to have to come in and contribute.”

Murray was named to the Mountain West All-Freshman Team last year, after averaging 9.3 points per game while leading all

freshmen in the conference with 1.8 three-point field goals made per game.

However, the 5-foot-6 guard from Stockton, Calif. does not have any individual awards in mind; she just wants to win.

“I’ll do whatever it takes if it’s charges, layups, loose balls.

I don’t really have that type of accolade in mind, I just want to win games,” Murray said.

Murray said the team must have a winning season and bring its best, especially when

conference play gets started.

“We need to have a winning season. It’ll start next week,” she said. “When conference rolls around, we need to be at our best.”

Murray’s team-first mentality goes into the development of the team’s chemistry as well.

Despite having a multitude of new players, Terry said the Aztecs’ chemistry will be the difference that propels SDSU from last year’s record.

“Our chemistry will be better

with this team,” Terry said.

“We’re looking for a couple of kids to step up, but I really like who we brought in.”

Senior forward Arantxa Gómez Ferrer said the team’s recent trip to Big Bear Lake solidified relationships on the team.

“It was three days getting off our phones, spending time with each other, all of us in the same room. We had no choice but to talk to each other,” Gómez Ferrer said. “That brought us a lot closer.”

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

basketball madness

The Daily Aztec

15

SDSU set to debut Jordan-brand gear

by Aaron Tolentino ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Florida, Georgetown, Houston, Marquette, Michigan, North Carolina, Oklahoma and now San Diego State are part of the exclusive club of schools that are sponsored by the Jordan brand.

There are only eight colleges in the country that get wear the iconic Jordan logo on the right side of their jerseys.

SDSU men’s basketball will do just that to begin its 201819 campaign in an exhibition against Chaminade University of Honolulu on Nov. 1.

The announcement of the school’s partnership with Jordan came back in April.

For senior guard Jeremy Hemsley, the announcement came as a pleasant surprise, after originally thinking the team was about to be in trouble.

“It was a dream come true because I thought we were in trouble, we got film session or something,” Hemsley said.

“I thought it was something bad. They had us in the locker room. They showed us the little presentation video and in the end, it said ‘We Are Jordan.’

Toronto Raptors forward and former SDSU star Kawhi Leonard is sponsored by Jordan.

It comes as no surprise Leonard’s alma mater played a part in this

“Wearing Jordans growing up, always having all of them, it’s dope to be sponsored by him, the man himself,” McDaniels said. “So getting all the retro gear, I like it a lot.” .

The culture of shoes and gear within basketball is more prevalent than any other sport.

Kids are wearing their favorite NBA players shoes in hopes to be like them one day.

Michael Jordan is widely

“It’s mind-blowing, just knowing you’re part of it.”

– Matt Mitchell, sophomore forward

Screenshot of the men’s basketball Twitter account announcing their move to joining the Jordan Brand on April 16

partnership.

Head coach Brian Dutcher said Leonard’s ties to the school and being a Jordan-sponsored school helps with recruiting.

“You’re always looking for an advantage, especially in recruiting,” Dutcher said. “To be one of the select schools to be able to wear it, it’s a great thing.

Obviously, Kawhi Leonard being a Jordan-brand player right now

adds extra incentive to it.”

Like many kids, sophomore forward Matt Mitchell grew up wearing Jordan brand shoes on and off the court. He, along with his sister, owned a pair of Air Jordan 13s, which he thought was ‘the best thing ever.’

Mitchell said it’s surreal to be making the switch to Jordan.

“It’s mind-blowing, just knowing you’re part of it. So

whether it’s eight or ten or fifteen, you’re one of those schools that support that legacy,” Mitchell said. “San Diego State is a great university and combining the Jordan will make us better.”

Redshirt sophomore forward Jalen McDaniels said he was once the kid who constantly had Jordans on his feet, something he will now continue to do as an Aztec.

regarded as the greatest basketball player ever, and the millions of sneakers he’s sold validate how basketball players are inspired by him.

Hemsley said he always wanted to get recruited by a Jordan-brand school, and for his senior year, he will finally be able to experience its mystique.

“It’s crazy because growing up trying to get a scholarship, we wanted to go to one of those (Jordan) schools. That’s what you want to do,” he said. “You wanted to become a part of the Jordan brand.”

Watson ready to lead the Aztecs offense

by Kyle Betz STAFF WRITER

San Diego State men’s basketball senior guard Devin Watson is entering his second and final season as a member of the Aztecs.

Watson used his redshirt season as a junior after he transferred from the University of San Francisco in 2016.

Now a senior, Watson said his experience playing at a smaller school will benefit the Aztecs.

“Just my experience from being in college for four-to-five years is what’s going to help us this year,” Watson said.

Watson brings more than just experience to the table. He was the Aztecs’ leader in points scored (12.2), games started (33) and minutes per game (31.2) last season.

In a round of 64 game against No. 6 seed University of Houston in the NCAA Tournament last season Watson scored two three-pointers to tie the game on two separate occasions late in the second half.

Watson finished the game with nine points, three rebounds and two assists.

Watson said he wants to reach the NCAA Tournament once again and go even further in March this season.

“I definitely want to get to that stage because I feel like I didn’t have a good game and I didn’t really help the team as much as I could’ve,” Watson

said. “I feel like we can get back to that stage. I feel like we can do everything we did last year and more, especially with the veterans.”

Guards Jeremy Hemsley and Michael Sohikish join Watson as the other seniors on the Aztecs’ roster.

Supporting the seniors are junior forward Nolan Narain and junior guard transfer Malachi Flynn, who must sit out this year due to NCAA transfer rules.

When it comes to a leadership role, Watson said it is easy for the veterans to teach the younger players because of their ability to listen.

“The young guys are eager to listen, that means they’re willing to hear everybody who has done this before and have done this before,” Watson said.

“I feel like that’s gonna help a lot. That’s gonna help us win.”

Watson’s objective for the upcoming season is to lead the team in any way possible.

“I just feel like I need to do whatever this team needs me to do to win,” Watson said. “I’m going to have to do everything, because now I am a fifth-year senior, so I feel like I’m going to have to do a lot more than what I’ve done in the past.”

In addition to four returning sophomores, the Aztecs are welcoming four new freshmen and redshirt freshman guard Adam Seiko to their roster.

Watson said youth will take

the Aztecs far this season.

“Obviously, a lot of young guys coming in. Really, it’s about them,” Watson said.

“Everything that they’re doing, how they’re doing it, I feel like that’s gonna help us in the long run. I feel like these young guys

“I feel like we can do everything we did last year and more, especially with the veterans.”

– Devin Watson,

are really gonna take us.”

Watson said he wants to make his senior season memorable.

“I picture everything and more. Whatever happens, happens, and it’s going to happen for a reason,” Watson said. “Whatever comes (our) way, we’re gonna take it full throttle and we’re not going to show them any mercy.”

The Aztecs will rely on Watson’s relentless mentality to push them towards another postseason run.

Hemsley said that he has noticed Watson’s progression as a leader over the past offseason.

“Another thing I notice from Devin is just his leadership skills,” Hemsley said. “I think everyone will see that on the court.”

File Photo

Devin Watson goes up for a layup during the Aztecs’ 85-49 victory over San Jose State University on Jan. 9 at Viejas Arena.

16

The Daily Aztec

Basketball Madness

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Hemsley learns to ignore outside noise

by Aaron Tolentino ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Athletes can lift weights, shoot a thousand shots in the gym, work on defensive techniques and scrimmage, but staying mentally healthy is often overlooked in college athletics.

Expectations are high this season for San Diego State men’s basketball, and pressure looms over the team’s 14 studentathletes.

People will talk about them, criticize them and judge what they do.

Senior guard Jeremy Hemsley has had his ups and downs since arriving on the Mesa in 2015.

Hemsley started all but one game his sophomore year but was reduced to a bench role last season, starting only seven times.

Hemsley averaged 12.9 points per game his sophomore year, good enough for second on the team. However, he struggled his junior year while averaging 7.3 points per game.

The struggles on the court followed Hemsley off the court, whether it was hearing hecklers on social media or in person.

Over this past summer, Hemsley and junior forward Nolan Narain were at Blenders, a smoothie restaurant near campus. The two encountered a heckler who went up to Hemsley and started taking verbal shots.

“The mental aspect of the game, I’ll tell them to take that serious and to just really be in touch with themselves,” he said.

“And to not really let all the other outside voices cloud their minds.”

The importance of mental health is not just confined to outside of the court; it is also a big part of playing the game itself.

Sophomore guard Matt Mitchell has been working on his

“The mental aspect of the game, I’ll tell them to take that serious and to just really be in touch with themselves.”

– Jeremy Hemsley, senior guard Jeremy Hemsley looks on during the Aztecs’ 90-73 victory over Nevada on March 9 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

“He was like ‘Jeremy, you completely lost your confidence,’’ Hemsley said.

Hemsley, however, said he refrained from talking back, deciding instead to walk away from the situation.

“You deal with stuff like that,” Hemsley said. “I had to give him a respectful reaction because it

looks bad on me if I were to flip out.”

Instances like this have challenged Hemsley.

Hemsley said this past summer was the first time he spoke out about his struggles with mental health.

“Not many are going to speak on it,” he said. “I didn’t say

File Photo

anything until this summer. The whole last year I was struggling.”

As a senior, Hemsley wants to guide younger players on the right path, so they don’t have to go through what he did.

Hemsley said his advice to freshmen is the importance of a healthy mind, both on and off the court.

mental health over the summer, preparing himself to limit mental errors on the court.

He said the mental part of basketball supersedes every other aspect of the game.

“I think this game is 90 percent mental, 10 percent physical,” Mitchell said. “Once you make the game more mental than physical, I feel like players can take that next step.”

Where they are now: 2017-18 men’s basketball edition QUOTABLE:

THE DAILY AZTEC SPOKE TO THE MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM AS PART OF MEDIA DAY ON SEPT. 24.

“I listen to a lot of Chief Keef, Future, yeah, anything to get me turnt up.”

– Jalen McDaniels, redshirt sophomore forward

“Until we hold that trophy again like we did last year, I feel like it’s all tough, it’s all a grind.”

– Devin Watson, senior guard

SNAPSHOT

MALIK POPE

by Abraham Jewett SPORTS EDITOR

Pope was a longtime fixture of SDSU basketball, playing with the team from the 2014-18 seasons.

He was a crowd favorite at Viejas Arena, known for his electric dunks out on the court.

Pope played in 32 games during his senior season, finishing with 12.8 points per game.

After leaving the Mesa, Pope went undrafted in the NBA, but has gone on to sign a professional basketball contract with PAOK Thessaloniki, a team in the Greece Basketball League.

TREY KELL Kell was a longtime Aztec, playing with the team from 2014-18.

He suffered through an injuryplagued senior season but got healthy and led the team to a nine-game winning streak and an NCAA tournament berth.

Kell saved his best for last at SDSU, finishing the 2018 regular season as the Mountain West Player of the Week before going on to win MVP of the MWC Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Kell is currently playing professional basketball in Bosnia and Herzegovina for the club Igokea.

MAX MONTANA The player previously known as Max Hoetzel changed his name in 2017, and thus the legend of “Big sky country,” was born.

Montana played two seasons for the Aztecs, after transferring from Indiana University following his freshman year.

A gunslinger on the court, he was known for knocking down big shots from range.

The basketballer took his talents to Germany following his junior year on the Mesa, and currently represents the Gießen 46ers of the Basketball Bundesliga.

Abraham Jewett

San Diego State received its Mountain West Championship rings during halftime of the homecoming football game on Oct. 20 at SDCCU Stadium.

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Mundo Azteca

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Vladimir Salazar • mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

SDSU conmemora con altar del Día de los Muertos a muertes causadas por el estado por Diane ESCRITORA

López

El Departamento de Estudios Chicana y Chicano hará su altar anual en la Universidad Estatal de San Diego el jueves para la conmemoración del Día de Los Muertos.

Cada año se le dedica un tema al altar y este año el tema será dedicado a los muertos por intervenciones del estado, como la masacre de los estudiantes de Tlatelolco del 1968 en México y la reciente separación de familias migrantes en EEUU “En México, el movimiento estudiantil del 1968 en Tlatelolco hubo una masacre el 2 de octubre y murieron muchos jóvenes quienes estaban luchando por un mejor país”, dijo Norma Iglesias Prieto, profesora de estudios chicanos de SDSU. Prieto dijo que estarán conmemorando en el altar del Día de Muertos las recientes separaciones de familias que han ocurrido en EEUU. “La segunda muerte que estamos llamando la atención en el altar son las familias que han sido separadas, que pueden ser muertes reales, muertes de personas pero también figurativamente”, dijo Prieto.

Profesores y estudiantes contribuirán al altar que se comenzó a construir el 25 de octubre. La inauguración del altar será el 1 de noviembre y estará disponible hasta el 16 de noviembre.

El altar será inaugurado a las 12 p.m. en

el tercer piso del edificio de Arts y Letters donde habrá pan de muerto, música interpretada por professora Coral Mcfarland Thuet y una plática hecha por Dra. Norma Prieto.

“Voy a cantar la canción de la llorona pero con letras nuevas de Oscar Chávez quien es un cantante y un activista de México”, dijo Thuet. “Y también voy a cantar una canción del grupo la Santa Cecilia una canción que se llama ‘Hielo’ que tiene que ver con la separación de los niños y de las familias”.

Estudiantes que quieran participar pueden traer fotos, recuerdos o decoraciones para mostrar en el altar antes de la inauguracion.

“El altar es importante por muchas razones”, dijo Prieto. “Primero, porque es una tradición mexicana muy importante y dentro del Departamento de Estudios Chicanos, trabajar con términos de afirmación cultural y sentirse orgulloso de tu cultura es muy importante”.

Thuet dijo que el Día de los Muertos no es una celebración donde se glorifica la muerte si no una conmemoración a los antepasados y es una agradecimiento a los seres queridos que han fallecido.

“Es una tradición que ha cruzado la frontera y es muy importante que eduquemos a los estudiantes del valor de nuestra propia cultura”, dijo Thuet. “Y también para compartir con los demás porque es algo que a todos nos afectan lo que es la vida, lo que

Foto por Diane López

El Altar del Día de los Muertos está ubicado en Arts y Letters para conmemorar las muertes ocasionadas por el estado.

es la muerte”.

Prieto dijo que a través de los años, el altar del Día de los Muertos lo han usado para educar a los estudiantes sobre eventos históricos. El altar de muertos termina siendo usado para analizar un fenómeno o un grupo de personas que han sido afectadas y que el resultado haya sido la muerte.

“Por otro lado, también lo vemos no solamente como una tradición cultural, si no un instrumento o una herramienta educativa”, dijo Prieto.

Opinión: Necesitamos tener empatía hacia la caravana de migrantes antes de criticar por Vladimir Salazar EDITOR DE MUNDO AZTECA

En estos momentos, una de las noticias más relevantes a nivel mundial es la caravana de migrantes de Sudamérica que se dirige hacia EEUU. Creo que si uno está consciente de las noticias, ya habrá visto imágenes y videos de enfrentamientos entre migrantes tratando de cruzar la frontera entre Guatemala y México y la policía mexicana obstruyendo la entrada.

Si de por si este acto no es un poco hipócrita por parte de México, lo más hipócrita de todo esto ha sido la reacción de algunos mexicanos sobre la situación que los migrantes de Sudamérica están viviendo.

Por medio de las redes sociales, se pudo ver que el racismo y la xenofobia entre los mexicanos hacia el migrante existe. Al leer los comentarios en publicaciones de medios internacionales con las imágenes de los migrantes tratando de cruzar, se desenmascaró el racismo.

Fueron bastantes los comentarios por parte de mexicanos para poner en evidencia que el clasismo y la xenofobia son algo que no solo proviene del gobierno de EEUU, sino de los mismos ciudadanos en México. La mayoría de los comentarios negativos en contra de la caravana de migrantes eran comentarios basados en estereotipos y argumentaban que los Sudamericanos deberían de entrar a México de una manera legal.

Es un argumento que se ha escuchado bastante estos últimos años, sobre todo en EEUU. Desde que el presidente Donald Trump comenzó su campaña para la presidencia,

usó el argumento de que los migrantes mexicanos son criminales, violadores y personas malas, y que por ende, se necesita construir un muro entre México y EEUU. Esta vez los papeles se han invertido un poco, pero dentro de la ciudadanía mexicana que argumenta que los migrantes de Sudamérica no respetan las leyes y que no deberían de entrar a México si es que no lo hacen de la manera legal.

México es un país que depende de los inmigrantes que trabajan en EEUU. El medio de comunicación El Financiero estima que en el 2018, se superará la cantidad de 30 mil mdd en remesas que los mexicanos reciben. En otras palabras, 30 mil mdd son invertidos gracias al trabajo de inmigrantes.

Cuando una persona escapa su país de origen, es por una razón. Dudo que alguien quiera escapar y dejar atrás a su familia y a sus seres queridos. Los videos de los enfrentamientos contra las autoridades mexicanas fueron los que más comentarios negativos tuvieron por parte de la comunidad. Algunas cosas decían “Puro vandalismo pero que se puede esperar si eso están acostumbrado a hacer” o “Que triste que aquí todos hagan lo mismo, destruir lo que no les corresponde”. Es bastante irónico que la gente de México critique a inmigrantes de la misma manera que un simpatizante de Trump lo haría con los inmigrantes mexicanos.

Lo peor de todo esto es como algunos individuos de la comunidad mexicana no sienten empatía por otras personas de países diferentes que enfrentan problemas similares a los nuestros. Los migrantes no deberían de ser vistos como algo negativo.

Deberíamos de analizar la situación antes de comenzar a juzgarlos.

Alice Fernández, una estudiante de último año en la carrera del desarrollo infantil, dijo que ella celebra el Día de los Muertos y que ve esta oportunidad como algo bueno para promover la cultura.

“Como somos aztecas en la universidad y estamos en América, siento que es necesario celebrar esto para la cultura mexicana en el campus”, dijo Fernández.

El año pasado, el Departamento de Estudios Chicano y Chicana, conmemoró la terminación de DACA en su altar de muertos.

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Arts & Culture

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Julianna Ress • arts@thedailyaztec.com

Troye Sivan, Kim Petras pay respect to 21st century pop on ‘Bloom’ tour at SDSU

by Julianna Ress ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

Photo by Justin Neeley

Australian pop vocalist Troye Sivan opened his set at CalCoast Credit Union Open Air Theatre with “Seventeen.”

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Australian pop artist and 2018 critical breakthrough Troye Sivan brought his intimate, inclusive “Bloom” tour to San Diego State’s CalCoast Credit Union Open Air Theatre Oct. 25 with openers Carlie Hanson and Kim Petras, and with them came a culmination of 21st century pop influences.

Hanson, 18, was the first opener, and she brought charisma along with a setlist evocative of 2010s pop to the Open Air Theatre.

In an interview with Paper Magazine, she cited Justin Bieber as one of her biggest influences, and that she was discovered by record producers when she posted a cover of Zayn’s “Pillowtalk” online.

A highlight of the rising singersongwriter’s set was her most recent release, “Toxins,” a rolling, post-EDM jam that seemingly builds to a big chorus, only to have the production minimize to just Hanson’s soft vocal delivery over a single guitar. The postchorus drop, reminiscent of Bieber’s monolith 2015 album, “Purpose,” got the crowd moving — she even had fans of her own in the audience singing along.

Fellow pop vocalist on the rise, Petras, following Hanson, ignited the crowd with a refreshing respect for turn-ofthe-century pop. She opened her set with recent single “All the Time,” the kind of bouncy, shoutalong pop song characteristic of “Teenage Dream”-era Katy Perry.

Her breakout single, “I Don’t Want It at All,” followed, and the audience was extremely receptive to the song’s reclaiming of lazily written mean girl stereotypes evident in early 2000s characters like Elle Woods of “Legally Blonde” and Regina George of “Mean Girls.”

“Baby, don’t you fight it,” Petras sang.

“Close your eyes and swipe it / Maybe I could be with you.”

Even the video for “I Don’t Want It at All” features ultimate millennial material girl Paris Hilton, emblematic of the kind of 2000s nostalgia evident in Petras’s music and growing widespread as young millennials and Generation Z come of age.

Her set also featured 2018 single “Heart to Break,” one of the best tracks in her catalog and of the year so far. It’s a soaring, melodramatic pop song that begs to be screamed along to during a car ride.

“Even if it means that I’ll never put myself back together / Gonna give you my heart to break,” she belted, one of the several times during her set she got to show off her range.

Main act Sivan came up next. He released his sophomore effort “Bloom” in August, reaching a wider audience than he did on 2015 debut “Blue Neighborhood,” reaching no. 4 on the Billboard 200 album chart and outpeaking his first record by three spots.

Sivan offers warm vulnerability in his music — his recurring themes include instances of love and heartbreak described in vivid detail, and coming to terms with his sexuality.

What’s striking about “Bloom,” though, is its musical backdrop recalling the past decade of pop. Initially gaining a following on YouTube, Sivan, 23, grew up watching the rise of DIY, minimalist dream pop and bedroom pop that thrived online.

Pop artists with an intricately curated

aesthetic, like Lana Del Rey, and more recently, Clairo have experienced viral breakthroughs similar to Sivan.

But more specifically, Sivan’s sound proves the longevity of perhaps the most influential pop album of the 2010s — Lorde’s “Pure Heroine.” Joining the ranks of post-Lorde pop artists like Halsey, Dua Lipa, Alessia Cara and countless others pushed on Spotify’s curated pop playlists, Sivan takes on those pulsating synths and indie, selfmade aesthetic to go with his personal storytelling.

He opened with Bloom’s opening track, “Seventeen,” which he told The New York Times is inspired by sexual experiences he had with older men via Grindr when he was underage. It’s a rolling, ethereal, coming-of-age song derivative of “Pure Heroine” cut “Ribs,” a favorite among Lorde fans.

“And he said age is just a number, just like any other,” he sang. “We can do whatever, do whatever you want.”

Sivan extended the vulnerability he offers in his lyrics to the banter he shared with the audience during the show.

Before performing “Blue Neighborhood” track “Heaven,” he described how the song reflects his preteen years, when he realized he was gay.

“Am I actually going to hell?” he recalled the questions he asked himself when he was younger and grappling with his sexuality. “Will I be able to have kids?”

It was clear his fans, many of whom brought Pride flags and adorned their outfits with rainbow shades, find his same-sex love songs important and resonant.

While a song like “Bloom’s” title track fared better live than on record, the set erred on sleepy in the middle with a string of forgettable “Bloom” ballads: “Postcard,” “The Good Side” and “What a Heavenly Way to Die.” “1999,” a recent Charli XCX single featuring Sivan, which taps into his affinity for pop nostalgia, brought life back to the stage. The crowd sang along to the lyrics longing for a return to the late-’90s.

“I just wanna go back / Back to 1999,” Sivan led the crowd. “I just wanna go back / Sing, ‘hit me baby one more time.’”

The main set with “Bloom” closer “Animal,” a track fans were eagerly awaiting.

Prior to the show, several young women were passing out strips of rainbow-colored paper, informing concert-goers to place the paper over their cell phone flashlights during “Animal,” so the crowd would illuminate like a giant Pride flag.

One of Sivan’s most ambitious tracks, “Animal” contains a distorted middle eight influenced by another 2010s pop vanguard: Frank Ocean.

“All is right in the meadow,” he sang during that bridge section. “When I’m lying next to my fellow / Baby, that’s you.”

He encored with “Blue Neighborhood” track, “Youth,” a John Hughes anthem for the 2010s, and ended the night with “Bloom” lead single “My My My!” The latter took an odd turn halfway through the song, morphing into a more uptempo, electronic remix that sounded about five years dated, but still reflected the expanse of 21st century pop Sivan picks and chooses from.

And with decades of potential inspirations now archived on streaming services, those reference points in his artistry are certain to continue growing.

Arts & Culture

Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 EDITOR: Julianna Ress • arts@thedailyaztec.com

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Alina Baraz shines at the Observatory

by Kelly Kerrigan STAFF WRITER

The soulful Alina Baraz stepped onto stage at the Observatory in North Park on Oct. 24, closing the tour in support of her new EP, “The Color of You.” The night began with her back-up dancer performing a complex solo as blue and pink lights flashed through the crowd, before the dancer was accompanied by synchronized dances and provocative lyrics.

Fans dressed in a similar fashion to Baraz, wearing hair extensions, artistic makeup, high heels and flashy clothes.

Baraz found fame after making it big on SoundCloud, where she released her first EP “Urban Flora.” The 24-year-old paired up with electronic musician Galimatias who helped her produce her beat driven music.

The EP charted on the Billboard 200, and kicked her music career off to a huge start.

Since then, she’s garnered a large following of dedicated fans, performed at big festivals such as Coachella and Lollapalooza and released two singles with “Location” singer Khalid.

Her instrumental background drive her songs of love, lust and breakups. She disclosed to the audience about how she began making music, “I remember first writing, I didn’t know

if I could sing,” she said to the crowd, describing her humble musical beginnings.

“I didn’t know if I could write. It’s crazy to think I get to travel all around the world.”

Management information studies junior Arad Yaron expressed her admiration for the singer’s originality.

“She has a really unique, fresh take on pop music,” Yaron said. “You can tell she put a lot of time and effort into her tour, and it really shows. She also sounds so good live.”

Early in the concert, the Ohio native played fan favorite “Make You Feel,” pushing the microphone out into the crowd during the chorus for them to echo back. Dramatic pauses in between songs were filled with light shows and live music solos.

Before performing the song “High,” Baraz expressed her writing process on the new EP saying, “High” was the first track she wrote for “The Color of You.” “I had so many highs writing this record,” she said. “I had so many lows, and I know this project took a minute to come out, and I want to thank you for being patient with me.

Baraz closed off the night with “Electric,” a track made with crossover R&B singer Khalid, which gained recognition after being featured in the Netflix series “On My Block.”

As the song progressed, its electronic elements layered with her soothing voice,

Photo by Justin Neeley

Alina Baraz’s recent stop at the North Park Obervatory was the last on her tour in support of EP “The Color of You.”

highlighting the artistic abilities Baraz is capable of.

While she may only have two EPs out at the moment, it is apparent that her pop career has much more to flourish into, and “Electric” is the perfect preview of what is to come.

Her fans radiated with adoration at her every move. Baraz crosses paths with different genres and pairs that style with

amatory lyrics. She gives off a sense of authenticity that divides her from other songwriters.

Her live voice reflects what initially got her noticed on SoundCloud and made her passion for making quality music incredibly obvious.

Baraz announced during the performance that a new full album is on its way and will be bigger and better than the rest.

Student multi-instrumentalist creates ‘alternative jazz’

by Spencer White STAFF WRITER

After a childhood spent learning various musical instruments, senior jazz major Thomas Frye is now using his skills to innovate in a new conglomerate genre he refers to as “alternative jazz.”

“My music has grown to be more jazzinfluenced over my time here (at San Diego State), but definitely not in the traditional sense of the word,” he said.

“If you can put jazz, R&B, hip-hop, psychedelic rock and cinematic music together, I guess that would be the sound.

I call it alternative jazz for short.”

Frye has been playing music for more than 10 years and was drawn specifically to guitar-playing and songwriting at a young age.

“My first instrument was alto saxophone when I was nine,” he said.

“But when I was younger, guitar was the one that made sense to me.” Frye started playing when he was 11, and it did not take him long to start realizing he needed a way to express himself.

Neither of Frye’s parents played instruments themselves, but they always made sure music was an instrumental part of Frye’s upbringing.

“They constantly raised me with music and other forms of art, such as paintings, poetry and theatre,” the musician said.

“So thinking critically about art wasn’t foreign to me.”

Growing up, some of Frye’s main inspirations were blues-inspired guitarists like Jimi Hendrix, John Mayer and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and 1970s folk songwriters like Jackson Browne and Simon and Garfunkel.

When he started high school, Frye got more and more invested in other instruments such as bass, piano, vocals, as

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well as getting back into the saxophone.

“I got more into audio production and composition, so that forced me to get into other instruments,” Frye said. “Towards the end of high school, I realized that jazz music was the genre that was going to push my playing and my writing to its fullest potential, so I came to SDSU as a jazz major.”

Since Frye has been at SDSU, he has been involved in a variety of projects, including getting deep and personal with a neo soul/hip-hop band that played a show at the House of Blues in downtown San Diego.

“I’ve had some really great opportunities that have helped me craft my sound,” Frye said. “The project was about rising out of a darker place to experience what it means to live for the things that lift you up. And when it is said and done, it is just another ‘phase.’ It was awesome to collaborate with some great musicians and even instructors here at SDSU. I can now acknowledge that project as another phase in my life as I continue to push myself to be a better musician and human being.”

Frye also recently performed as a solo artist on campus, though accompanied by his live band, as part of the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union series, Nooner.

Frye said his dream venue to perform at would be the Forum in Los Angeles, and he wishes he could collaborate with the late Jeff Buckley.

However, Frye said he feels lucky enough to write music with his band: bassist Lydon Quill, drummer Jay James, keyboardist Jesse Aaron and saxophonist Isaiah Davis. Together they wrote the EP “Spark,” which can be found on a variety of streaming services.

“I think I’m blessed to be able to collaborate with the guys I feature on the EP,” Frye said.

He said he also hopes to expand his sonic palate to the sounds of Europe, and cited Alfa Mist, Yussef Dayes and Jordan Rakei as some European jazz artists he would like to collaborate with.

Environmental science sophomore Hanna Rueter was at a Green Love meeting in the Union courtyard when Frye was performing at the Nooner.

“The music started playing during the meeting, and I just loved the vibe of it,” she said. “The band had a nice stage presence and were creating some great tunes that set the mood for that sunny day.”

Frye wants people that might see jazz as a forgotten genre to realize it can be worthwhile and relevant by today’s standards.

“My main goal is to present my music to people who wouldn’t normally be into the jazz sound and to get them interested in the genre,” he said. “It’s about changing people’s perspective on an American sound that may seem dead. It makes me happy when someone who doesn’t know jazz hits me up and remains affected by the music and hungry for more.”

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Oct. 31-Nov. 6, 2018 • Editor in Chief: Will Fritz • editor@thedailyaztec.com