03-20-2019 by The Daily Aztec

Wednesday, March 20 - Tuesday, March 26, 2019 Weekly Print Edition

Vol. 105, Issue 27 www.thedailyaztec.com

San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

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AZTECS FALL IN MOUNTAIN WEST FINALS Photo by Raymond Gorospe

Senior guard Jeremy Hemsley is frustrated after a call by the referee during the Aztecs’ 64-57 loss to Utah State in the Mountain West tournament championship game on March 16 at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas.

2019 A.S. election season offically kicks off VP of university affairs, financial affairs candidates square off by Michael Cline SENIOR STAFF WRITER

The candidates for vice president of university affairs and vice president of financial affairs gathered to debate in the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union on March 18 for next week’s Associated Students elections. The two candidates running for V.P. of University Affairs, George Scott and Winston Liew, addressed issues of academic achievement, student resources and inclusion on campus, while unopposed candidate for V.P. of Financial Affairs Dustin Adkins

spoke about campus affordability and food and housing insecurity. Scott, current A.S. Recreation and Wellness Commission Chair, said one of his primary concerns for the university is course availability. He said he would advocate for hiring more professors and allocating funds to ensure access to high-demand classes. “Every semester, students fail to register for these classes because of the limited spots,” Scott said. Scott also raised concerns about the need for additional mental health resources on campus. He specifically said he

plans on advocating for hiring more counselors to lower wait times and reduce stigma for those seeking counseling. Liew, the current College of Engineering representative, brought up the need for crosscollege collaboration to ensure campus unity. “I’ve seen the most successful events are when people of different walks of life, cultures and even majors work together,” he said. Liew also raised concerns about SEE DEBATES DAY 1, PAGE 2

Executive VP, external relations candidates take the stage for second day of debates by Michael Cline SENIOR STAFF WRITER

The candidates for Associated Students vice president of external relations and executive vice president debated in the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union on March 19 ahead of next week’s Associated Students elections. External relations candidates Angelica Espinoza and Stephanie Estrada discussed issues including basic needs initiatives, sexual assault prevention and

campus inclusivity. Executive Vice President candidates Kyla Blaylock and Christian Holt also took the stage to discuss campus activism and student engagement. College of Arts and Letters Council Executive Vice President Espinoza identified advocacy for basic needs initiatives and empowerment of sexual assault survivors as key priorities for her campaign. She also called for additional legal services for SEE DEBATES DAY 2, PAGE 2

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the lack of representation for both engineering and other science students in student government positions on campus. “I want to be able to represent them and other majors,” he said. In addition, Liew spoke of the need for A.S. leadership to be available to hear directly from students about issues they’re facing. He also spoke of closing the divide between individuals from different majors and identity groups while giving voice to underrepresented communities. Both Liew and Scott called for additional action from the university in response to the video that captured a racial slur shouted outside the Black Resource Center on March 2. Liew said the university was right to organize healing circles to support affected communities but added the administration failed to propose any changes that would prevent future incidents. Scott agreed with the idea of healing circles but was critical of the campus marketing campaign. He said he would prioritize proper advertising and marketing of such events to help create a more knowledgeable and tolerant campus. “(The healing circles) were not marketed effectively,” Scott said. “There weren’t enough people there from different communities.” Current A.S. Student Support Commission Chair Adkins also fielded questions despite running unopposed for his position. He spoke about the need to address college affordability for lowincome students and increase efforts to raise funds and pledge campaigns on campus. “I want to continue working on our basic needs programs, making sure they are fully funded and that we are constantly expanding them,” Adkins said. “I also want to sustain our legacy of running a recordbreaking food drive on our campus.” Adkins also addressed the Sophomore Success Initiative and housing insecurity for students living in San Diego. “The university needs to be very conscious of its decisions when it comes to things such as housing, which is such a huge cost living in California,” he said. “It is going to be raising the cost of living for thousands of students who have to live in these dorms.” Adkins also said the university should increase support for low-income students already struggling to make ends meet. Similarly, Adkins said no tuition increase should accompany the SDSU Mission Valley project. He also spoke of the need to address food insecurity for students through the A.S. food pantry and CalFresh program and engage local businesses with

students on campus. “I hope to diversify the legal services that A.S. has to offer to ensure that no matter what vulnerable situations students are put in, they will be mitigated to the best of their ability,” Espinoza said. College of Arts and Letters Council representative Estrada said she would acknowledge different identity groups on campus while expanding research and employment programs and services to students. She also vowed to address basic needs initiatives. “I want to focus on basic needs, for example housing insecurities, food insecurities, as well as mental health,” Estrada said. Both Espinoza and Estrada condemned the racial slur targeting the Black Resource Center. Espinoza called for greater response to hate crimes and social media posts that include racial slurs. She pledged to promote inclusivity through mandatory education programs at orientation. “Ignorance is no longer an option or excuse,” Espinoza said. Estrada added the need to ensure student safety on campus. She also offered a personal apology to the Asian and Pacific Islander community for a social media post on her account that had included a racial slur. “I am deeply sorry,” Estrada said. “I should have been educated, and I should have been conscious of what I said.” Espinoza called for a new subcommittee to increase campus diversity and improve inclusivity. Estrada responded with a rebuttal regarding the university’s response to a recent protest against declining admissions of Pell-Grant eligible students to SDSU. “We just had a protest on the pell grant and I’ve seen students have to wait three months to get a response from our university,” Estrada said. The candidates for executive vice president also debated community engagement and collaboration, along with student activism on campus. Holt, who served as a voting member on the Afrikan Student Union, said he would help commuter students and student athletes fully participate on campus, while championing allyship between underrepresented and represented communities and organizations. He also vowed to “redefine” the university community, campus pride and the way student

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March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

leaders are elected to office. “People should not be scared to run solo,” Holt said. “People should be proud to run solo. People should be proud to make their message heard.” Aztec Student Union Board chair Blaylock, running on the slate “Vote SDSU,” explained the slogan’s significance to her campaign. “We can, especially in my role as (executive vice president), strengthen our intentional programming,” Blaylock said. We can diversify what leadership looks like. We can sustain the work of the executives before us, encourage sustainable practices, and together

unify.” Blaylock and Holt also discussed their support for the Pell Grant protest’s intentions. Holt, who attended the protest, said it was an important aspect of his candidacy. “I stand will all students on this campus and whatever they’re going through” Holt said. Blaylock said the protest may have been viewed as “performative advocacy” and stressed the need for leaders to support and advocate for policies in their offices as well.

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Feb. 13-19, 2019 EDITOR: Bella Ross, news@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

Meet this year’s SDSU A.S. candidates THE INTERVIEWS HAVE BEEN EDITED FOR BREVITY AND CLARITY.

Christian Onwuka

POSITION: President YEAR: Senior MAJOR: Finance SLATE: Vote SDSU

Why did you decide to run for this position? “From day one, I knew student government was an experience I wanted, but for me, my path was kind of weird because most people looked at A.S. as ‘all right, I’m going to get involved freshman year and then work my way up,’ I didn’t do that. When it comes to leadership (I realized) I got to have an amount of different quality leadership experiences that didn’t involve student government so that way I broaden my horizons and broaden my perspective on what leadership really (is), so that when I got (to my current position) I’d be well equipped to really represent our students. What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “My involvement with A.S. started my

Mariya Nadberezhna

POSITION: President YEAR: Senior MAJOR: Communications and Russian SLATE: None

Why did you decide to run for this position? “I am running for president because I want to leave my own impact on San Diego State. I feel that, while it is a great school already, there are still a few things that can be improved. I also would like to give a voice to the people who don’t necessarily have the opportunity to give their own voice. So in a way, put them a little higher on a pedestal since I myself will be in a position of power.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “My most recent leadership experience is in the SDSU Marching Aztecs. I was sousaphone section leader this past year, and in the SDSU Pep Band I was the lead bass guitarist. Most of that gave me a lot

Kyla Blaylock

POSITION: Executive Vice President YEAR: Junior MAJOR: Business Management SLATE: Vote SDSU

Why did you decide to run for this position? “I really am passionate about the work that I’m doing. I spent the last three years being a part of the Aztec Student Union Board, which is a lot of programming, and I know that we’ve done a lot of great work. In addition, I know that even though we continue to say that leadership starts here, I want to ensure that we’re diversifying what leadership looks like.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “I’ve been a part of Associated Students since I stepped foot on this campus. It’s the first organization that I joined and the one that I do believe that I’ve been the most committed to. As the commissioner of the Aztec Student Union Board this past

Christian Holt

POSITION: Executive Vice President YEAR: Junior MAJOR: Kinesiology SLATE: None

Why did you decide to run for this position? “I decided to run for this position because of the power that this position has. The executive vice-president is essentially in charge of everything student-related within associated students and I feel as I can make a big impact within this position.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “I believe I am most qualified for this position because I have been on the ground level with students my whole college experience. I have created the Black Affinity Group, a campus initiative to bring black students living in residence halls together. I am the co-director of the Tijuana Home Build which is an organization that raises money to build homes for families in

sophomore (year), I sat on (the external relations) board. I hated it, so my junior year (I became) the college of business representative for A.S., serving as a liaison between the college, A.S. and the student body. (Doing that) was cool, but I felt I could have more outreach (and) impact if I was able to expand my role and expand (my) responsibilities, so that’s why I ran for the VP of financial affairs (last year). What would you like to change at SDSU? “I’d like to change fragility. I feel like people are so scared to have difficult conversations. People think we all have to be friends to be effective, (but) no, that’s not leadership. If you’re comfortable, you’re probably not doing something right and I think true leaders are able to take criticism to give criticism and adapt to what they’re hearing.

What will be your top three priorities in this role? “For me (it’s) trying to build the bridge back between San Diego and San Diego State. We need to continue engaging our local San Diego area to let them know the great things happening on campus. (Also) diversifying the conversations between what support for students looks like. I feel like people look to A.S. (asking) ‘oh what can you do for me,’ and I feel like even as A.S. we’ve said what can we do for students. We need to change (that question) to how can we empower students to help themselves and their communities. (Additionally) the ARC endowment plan (is another priority). We’re looking to establish an alumni funded endowment plan, fill out grants, anything (to help) low income students who are affected by this fee increase, but still enjoy this new ARC that we’re going to have.”

of management skills and a lot of general people skills, which already come with being a communications major. I have been a part of KCR College Radio. I have been a part of a student run, nonprofit organization called the Muskwa Club Incorporated. Their focus is primarily on saving the Vaquita porpoise. I have been the president of the international chapter as well as my high school chapter and I am also the collegiate divisional vice president representing SDSU.” What would you like to change at SDSU? “Currently I would like to bridge the gap between the privileged and not so privileged because I feel that I know the struggle since I grew up in a low-income, single-parent family. I feel like I am here to represent the people who do not necessarily have the means or economic benefits to

actually stand for what they believe in. I want a everyone to know that taking up a position of power is something that anyone can do. I want to bring the campus together because I feel that recently there has been a divide.” Can you name something you like and something you dislike about A.S.? “Something I really like about A.S. is that in a way it brings the campus community together. It brings students together. Something I dislike about A.S. is that I feel that they don’t always hear the student body, and I would like to change that.” What will be your top three priorities in this role? “Improving student quality of life, which entails mental and physical health, celebrating diversity and not just hearing but also listening.”

year, I was in charge of overseeing about a half a million dollar budget for the largest board for Associated Students, and I really think that a lot of the programming work that we’ve done has been really impactful. But, I think more than anything, I love being a part of an organization that doesn’t necessarily have a lot of people that look like me, and I want to ensure that, not only as a person of color, but as a black woman, I continue to represent those underserved communities that don’t necessarily always have a voice. What would you like to change at SDSU? “More than anything, I really think that my team and I are really working to bridge the gaps between the different communities at San Diego State. You would look at all five of us and think, ‘They don’t hang out together, they don’t kick it, they’re not

friends.’ But, I think that’s what makes us so great because we come from such different parts of campus and we are involved in such different communities that we could, as the “u” in “Vote SDSU” stands for, unify the campus into one greater community. What will be your top three priorities in this role? “SDSU stands for, ‘strengthen, diversify, sustain and unify,’ so I would like to strengthen our intentionality in programming and all the work we’re doing. Diversify what leadership looks like, as I mentioned earlier. Then, sustain all the great work we’ve been doing with the various initiatives in addition to improving and encouraging sustainability efforts not only on main campus, but at Imperial Valley campus and at the extension in Mission Valley and hopefully by doing all of that we can to unify San Diego State.”

Mexico. I have been a community assistant with the resident education program for two years. Last year, I served as a voting representative for the African Student Union on the Student Diversity Commision of Associated Students.” What would you like to change at SDSU? “What I would like to change at SDSU are student relations, what I mean by this is that often of times students do not find a home within organizations on campus because there is no awareness of the different organizations on campus. But I would like to promote more allyship and collaboration between those two groups as well as within the underrepresented groups.” What would be your top three priorities in this role? “To start off, I think that creating allyship between underrepresented and

represented groups is extremely important. In our current campus climate, students are divided and by doing this, it will expose different organizations and groups to others and it will help with the campus climate. My number two thing would be bringing student athletic life into the SDSU community and what I mean by that is often times student athletes are waking up, going to school, practice, etc. and by the end of day, there’s nothing telling them that they have this huge community out there and that there’s organizations to go to and many different things. By doing that, it will increase campus pride and people will be proud to be an SDSU student. My third point would be making students feel at home, when they step foot on campus, making them feel happy to be here.”

Opinion Media framing hurts female candidates 4

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Kemi Giwa • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

by Shayne Jones STAFF WRITER

Kamala Harris smoked weed. Amy Klobuchar throws binders. Elizabeth Warren is a liar. Joe Biden is “the kind of guy you’d like to have a beer with.” Bill Clinton is “uniquely powerful and compelling” to talk to. And Donald Trump? He’s “America’s edgiest comedian.” The 2020 race for President of the United States is pussy powered and boldly female–but bold also is the sexism that trails doggedly at its heels. Harris isn’t a Democratic frontrunner because she’s dynamic and enterprising or because of her extensive experience as a district attorney, attorney general and now U.S. senator; she (obviously) owes her success to being “young… [and] attractive.” Hillary Clinton is “crooked,” Nancy Pelosi is “petty” and I’m fed up. It is overtly evident we live in a sexist society. Sexism in politics isn’t new either. In fact, sexism is the sole reason this country has not yet

had a female president. The media’s often myopic focus on female candidates’ less “favorable” qualities skews their portrayal as professionals on a spectrum that wasn’t fair in the first place. It is already challenging enough for a woman to be elected to a position of power and then doubly challenging to be respected in that position.

they want to highlight, omit or contextualize in the pieces they post. Full disclosure: I’m framing right now. The dangerous part is most people fail to recognize this framing or, worse yet, aren’t aware it is a reality. Framing like this allows right-leaning organizations to push their agendas with “real

I urge you to read the news with a trained eye and listen to your podcasts with concerted objectivity. You don’t need to vote for a female candidate come the primaries or election day. You don’t even have to like any of the female candidates. However, be aware of the media bias that permeates political coverage and often

Van Weele

The American Dream was once attainable. Back in the mid-1900s, over 90 percent of 30-year-olds were receiving higher salaries than their parents had at that age. Today, that number is down to just 50 percent as social mobility continues to dwindle in the U.S. The younger generations are faced with tougher financial hardships and growing economic inequality which makes it harder to climb up the social ladder. One of the most pressing challenges facing the younger generations is the growing $1.5 trillion owed in student loans nationwide. About 70 percent of college graduates will have student loans to still pay off. According to The Department of Education, the national average debt is $30,500 per student and it takes years for college graduates to pay back their loans. The majority of borrowers will not pay back their loans until their 40s. Some are now parents who are still paying off their own loans while pulling out more for their children who are entering college The high cost of higher education is causing many people to delay big life

MANAGING EDITOR Jocelyn Moran NEWS EDITOR Bella Ross ASST. NEWS EDITOR David Santillan OPINION EDITOR Kemi Giwa MUNDO AZTECA EDITOR Alejandra Luna ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Julianna Ress

“Sexism in politics isn’t new either; in fact, sexism is the sole reason that this country has not yet had a female president. The media’s often myopic focus on female candidates’ less ‘favorable’ qualities skews their portrayal as professionals on a spectrum that wasn’t fair in the first place. It is already challenging enough for a woman to be elected to a position of power...” According to Stanford research recently re-reported by the Washington Post, “in 2010... voters regarded ‘power-seeking’ women with contempt and anger,” but “saw power-seeking men as strong and competent.” Why the disparity? In large part, I blame the media (what?! A journalist is blaming the media?! Please, just bear with me.) Journalistic framing occurs when media outlets consciously decide what part of the news

evidence” to back them up and liberal outlets to do the same. Quotes are taken out of context, gestures misinterpreted (or biasedly interpreted) – and then you end up sitting at the kitchen table wondering if you would be insane for voting for a person who throws office supplies at her employees. Media framing is not necessarily bad, but is a force that flies all too often under the radar. In this 2020 campaign race,

casts women in an unfairly negative light. And educate your friends, too. I can’t write sexism away, as much as I want to. It is here to stay until we as a society can collectively agree and actively resolve to abolish it. All that I ask, is that you give the females a chance to prove their worth. Because worthy they are.

Shayne Jones is a junior studying journalism.

The ‘American Dream’ is unattainable by Catherine STAFF WRITER

EDITOR IN CHIEF Will Fritz

milestones that are part of the traditional American Dream, including buying a home. Given the rising cost of houses and the overall cost of living, buying a home would only build more debt for college graduates. While having a bachelor’s degree significantly increases annual salary compared to people with a high school diploma, it is not enough to pay off loans and start saving away an adequate amount for retirement. A NerdWallet study concluded college graduates of 2015 would not be able to retire until the age of 75 due to the student loans. College loans are not the only form of debt weighing down on Americans. As a nation, there is $1 trillion of credit card debt, $1.1 trillion in car loans and $8 trillion in mortgages. These heavy financial burdens make it difficult for many people to save up for retirement and emergency savings. A survey conducted by the Federal Reserve found 40 percent of Americans did not have enough to cover $400 in emergency expenses. The inability to save and invest in the future is largely due to the stagnation of wages most American workers are experiencing. While wages have increased in dollar amount, this increase still lags behind inflation which

causes purchasing power to decrease. Americans are unable to consume and purchase at the same capacity as they were a few decades ago. This means key components of the American Dream like college and home owning are significantly unaffordable to more people. When accounting for inflation, the cost of attending college today has more than doubled since the 1970s. Major reforms must be made in order to make the American Dream possible for most people again. There needs to be a redistribution of wealth, and people need to be paid at least a living wage. Employers should take the initiative to address wage stagnation by paying their workers a living wage. To encourage this, local governments should institute a minimum wage that ensures workers will be able to afford to live nearby their work. This would also require addressing the housing crisis by reducing the cost of housing. The government should fund construction for more housing options to increase the supply and therefore reduce the market prices. Cheaper housing options would help to reduce the

amount of mortgage payments Americans are indebted. Taxes can be used to fund public education, specifically higher learning, and it would make college more affordable. Colleges and universities require more funding to reduce the costs of tuition, housing and other fees. It would also allow universities to provide a higher quantity and quality of services and resources to their students. Even for people who already went to college or chose not to go, using tax revenues to fund education would benefit them by building a stronger workforce in the U.S. Reducing the national debt of student loans would improve the overall economy by stimulating consumer spending. Additionally, without being financially weighed down by loans, college graduates would be able to afford to buy a house, start up their own businesses and invest in the stock market. There needs to be a collective effort to provide people with the opportunities to work toward the American Dream. This will leave everyone better off by strengthening the workforce and the economy and enriching American life.

Catherine Van Weele is a freshman studying political science.

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

SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Kyle Betz Lauren J. Mapp Tristi Rodriguez STAFF WRITERS Cristian Alvarez Michael Cline Daniel Guerrero Breven Honda Shayne Jones Kaitlyn Little Diane López Antonio Márquez Aretha Matsushima Johann Derek Oriballo Brenden Tuccinardi Catherine Van Weele Spencer White ________________________________ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Josh Diaz 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.

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Bella Ross • news@thedailyaztec.com

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A.S. CANDIDATES, CONTINUTED FROM PAGE 3

Angelica Espinoza

POSITION: Vice President of External Relations YEAR: Junior MAJOR: ISCOR SLATE: Vote SDSU

Why did you decide to run for this position? “I’ve been with A.S. since my freshman year and every year I find a new challenge that I’m really excited about and I really want to take care of. Before, my big challenge was the financial barrier for students to run for positions. Before, folks used to have to do a $100 deposit to run. As Chief Justice for the Judicial Affairs Council, I’ve

Stephanie Estrada

POSITION: Vice President of External Relations YEAR: Junior MAJOR: ISCOR SLATE: None

Why did you decide to run for this position? “I have been a part of the SDSU community for the last three years. One thing I have noticed is I really value the relationships I have gained, whether it be inside the classroom, in our organizations or even the off-campus relationships I have made with students. One of the reasons I really want this position is to enhance those stories. The first thing that came to my mind was

George Scott

POSITION: Vice President of University Affairs YEAR: Junior MAJOR: Marketing SLATE: Vote SDSU

Why did you decide to run for this position? “A.S. has been a passion of mine since freshman year. I was a delegate for a (member of the A.S. Board of Directors), Dustin Pina, and I sat as his delegate on University Council and it was there I got to watch Chimezie (Ebiriekwe), who was the former A.S. President. It was while he was serving his time as the vice president

Winston Liew

POSITION: Vice President of University Affairs YEAR: Junior MAJOR: Computer Engineering SLATE: None

Why did you decide to run for this position? “I am currently the College of Engineering Representative, so I was able to work with the current vice president of university of affairs directly, but also at the same time while I was attending A.S. meetings I noticed that College of Engineering is very underrepresented in terms of the higher politics, only because engineers typically are not

Dustin Adkins

POSITION: Vice President of Financial Affairs YEAR: Junior MAJOR: Economics and Sociology SLATE: Vote SDSU

Why did you decide to run for this position? “I decided to run because I truly am passionate about what I’m doing. I’m passionate about serving the students of the school, and I really love being in Associated Students and serving in these capacities to help better our school in any way I possibly can.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “Within Associated Students,

managed to take away that requirement. I found this year I had different issues like basic needs, food, housing, security, sexual assault that I wanted to talk about.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “I’ve held various on campus leadership roles in diverse backgrounds. I’ve worked as a fellow at the Women’s Resource Center. I’m currently executive vice president for the College of Arts and Letters. I’m the

chief justice for the Judicial Affairs Council. I’m the only woman who chose to council in Associated Students. In addition to that, (I’ve been) on the executive board for other organizations like Dance Marathon at SDSU and have off-campus involvement with nonprofits, government agencies and law firms.” What will be your top three priorities in this role? “Definitely diversify our A.S. legal services, ensure that we’re connecting with on campus

entities that can help us navigate that, so working with the SDSU Police Department, our Title IX coordinator and our on-campus ombudsman. Second one is food (and) housing insecurity, so ensuring that folks know about the Economic Crisis Response Team, that folks know about our community resource specialists. My last one is civic engagement but I really want to ensure that students get an experience out of it.”

the reason the Pell Grant protest happened. One of the chants was actually, ‘SDSU, who do you serve?’, and that’s that. It’s students like you, it’s students like me, and I feel like a lot of the times, SDSU kind of reverts from that, and I want to be able to enhance that individualistic aspect of San Diego State.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “I believe I’m the most qualified because I’ve been through a lot in my life. I’ve experienced a spectrum of different issues in terms of mental

health, in terms of affordability on campus and I’ve combated them throughout my whole time here. With that being said, I have also shared grievances with other students at the same time while dealing with these issues, and I’ve realized I have that delicacy of being able to relate with a student in terms of my organization and motivation.” What will be your top three priorities in this role? “Top three priorities are for sure job opportunities, I want to be able to promote on the HR blackboard.

Be able to have more paid internships, I want to enhance that because a lot of students are doing great research on campus. A lot of students are doing great research off campus, but they’re not getting paid for it. So being able to balance that is a lit bit hard, especially as a third year and a fourth year. My second thing is on the burden of housing and how that is on the finances for students, especially with this sophomore success program. Lastly, I want to be able to try to make SDSU as student centric as possible.”

of university affairs. I ended up speaking to him a lot and I really liked him, so I got to know his position a little more without asking him. I just looked at the bylaws and then I found it was something I was really passionate about because I always believe that when you come to university one of the most important things is academics.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with A.S.? “I sat as a delegate for Board

of Directors my freshman year. Then my second year, I was a recreation and wellness representative and then my third year, I was the commissioner of recreation and wellness. I was the executive vice president of health and wellness for the Interfraternity Council for a period of time. I sit on SHAC, which is the Student Health Advisory Committee. And I’m currently on the Alcohol and Other Drugs task force.” What would you like to change

at SDSU? “As the chief academic officer, I think academics should be a priority. I’d like to increase the availability of high demand classes because right now there are students who fail to register for these classes, which can be crucial to their major, because of the limited availability. I really want to work with Calpulli and Counseling and Psychological Services to improve their “Talk It Out” service, which is an unofficial therapy session.”

interested in politics. Working with Ronnie Cravens directly helped me to see that having people work together, the best results came from people of different walks of life and different majors to make one goal happen. I feel like there is a divide on campus in terms of who is the best college and just because you are in a certain major or college you’re not talking to other people within certain colleges and I want to branch that out.” What makes you qualified for this position? What is your history with

A.S.? “I think I’m qualified for this position because I am currently a second-year RA, president of my fraternity (Sigma Phi Delta) and my association with A.S. is my time as the College of Engineering Representative this past year.” What would be your top three priorities in this role? “One of the things I want work on is making sure that SDSU collaborates with each other, collaborating with people of other colleges, different walks of life and making sure people

know how to work together. Another thing I want to focus on is innovation, wanting to improve what is already here. SDSU is a fantastic campus and being able to innovate that in different places will cause a ripple effect which I believe (will) better the SDSU campus as a whole. between the people who are super passionate about leadership like in A.S. and the other people who just go to school and then go home. I really want to know why that is and motivate them to reach out and get out of their comfort zone.”

I’ve been the student support commissioner for two terms. Before that, I was the food pantry and resources coordinator. I’ve presented on behalf of SDSU up at the Basic Needs Conference up in Sacramento, representing SDSU and kind of learning what other schools are doing, bringing that back here and then teaching them what SDSU is doing. In addition, I sat on Campus Life Council in my role as the student support commissioner. And, I’ve been on the Aztecs Rock Hunger leadership team for two years, and that’s a major part of the role of

vice president of financial affairs.” What will be your top three priorities in this role? “First of my top three priorities is to strengthen the general understanding of A.S. funding. A.S. funding is confusing, anyone who’s ever dealt with it I think can see it’s kind of a confusing process. So, I will try my best to simplify that so that people and organizations can better understand it. In addition, I hope to work with our basic needs initiatives and supporting programs to help also expand and continue the growth of them

whether that be working with the food pantry and other things like that or something as simple as trying to help commuter and low-income students who are commuting to our school who may not be able to afford something as simple as a parking pass which is necessary to come to our campus. Then, lastly is definitely continuing on with our legacy of running a record-breaking food drive on this campus. I’m really proud of the fact that last year we raised 590,000 pounds of food and I would like to break that record again.”

The Daily Aztec

Mundo Azteca

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Alejandra Luna • mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

Estudiantes de SDSU recolectan donaciones para orfanato en Tecate por Diane ESCRITORA

López

El 16 de marzo, miembros de Lambda Theta Phi y Lambda Sigma Gamma de la Universidad Estatal de San Diego recolectaron donaciones para ayudar a los niños que viven en el orfanato Rancho el Milagro en Tecate, México. Cada semestre, los miembros de la fraternidad y hermandad tratan de asistir como voluntarios al Rancho el Milagro, llevando todo lo que se logra recaudar como comida, suministros para bebés, juguetes, entre otras cosas. Además, este año pudieron enseñarles un poco de inglés y matemáticas. No sólo se presentaron para donaciones, sino también tuvieron un retiro para discutir el conocimiento que adquirieron durante su visita. “Tratamos de venir cada semestre, este año nuestra meta principal fue organizar una mesa para el semestre de primavera, recolectar donaciones, pero también tener un gran impacto para el semestre”, dijo David Santos, presidente de Lambda Theta Phi. Los universitarios han estado ayudando desde el 2016 cuando un miembro de Lambda Theta Phi invitó a los demás compañeros de la asociación al orfanato. Desde ese entonces, se convirtió en filantropía para la

el trauma de los padres que cuentan con antecedentes de abuso de alcohol y drogas. “Cuando fui por primera vez a este evento, vi cosas que no había visto antes en términos de vivienda para un orfanato y realmente me impactó”, dijo

Cortesía de David Santos

Miembros de Lambda Theta y Lambda Sigma Gamma son voluntarios en el orfanato de Rancho el Milagro en Tecate, México.

“Es importante porque muchas veces los niños en el sistema huérfano no son vistos o representados, especialmente al otro lado de la frontera. Cualquier oportunidad que podamos darles a esos niños vale la pena”. – Briana Juárez Miembra de Lambda Sigma Gamma

fraternidad. “Esto es importante porque muchas veces los niños en el sistema huérfano no son vistos o representados, especialmente al otro lado de la frontera”,

dijo Santos. “El orfanato está en Tecate, nuestro objetivo no solo es crear un impacto en la comunidad de San Diego, sino también en todas partes”. Briana Juárez, miembra de

Lambda Sigma Gamma, dijo que el apoyar a los niños del Rancho el Milagro es muy significativo porque es algo que los enorgullece. “Es importante porque la educación es realmente importante, y especialmente porque hay muchos niños pequeños”, dijo Juárez. “Cualquier oportunidad que podamos darles a esos niños vale la pena”. Santos añadió que ir al orfanato fue significativo para sus compañeros porque convivieron con niños de todas las edades, quienes muchos de ellos sufren de trastornos por

“Cuando fui por primera vez a este evento, vi cosas que no había visto antes en términos de vivienda para un orfanato y realmente me impactó. Lo que más me golpeó fue ver a los bebés porque lo que tienen para ayudarlos no era suficente”. – Mauro Ordiano Miembro de Lambda Theta Pi Mauro Ordiano miembro de Lambda Theta Phi. “Lo que más me golpeó fue ver a los bebés porque lo que tienen para ayudarlos no era suficiente”.

La importancia de solicitar becas en la universidad por Antonio ESCRITOR

Márquez

La ayuda financiera que reciben muchos de los estudiantes es basada en cuánto dinero sus padres obtienen anualmente o lo que ellos pueden aportar, pero una de las grandes oportunidades que tenemos son las becas. Las becas a veces son difíciles de encontrar pero con la perseverancia, todo se puede

necesitas esas cartas, sólo se requiere escribir un ensayo. Los consejeros nos dicen que muchas de las becas no son otorgadas porque los estudiantes no solicitan. Para ser sincero, en ocasiones no tenemos acceso a esas ayudas ya sea por no obtener la información correcta o la fecha para solicitar ya pasó. En algunas ocasiones, las becas también tienen títulos que pueden confundir al

“El obstáculo que tuve que enfrentar fue dejar el orgullo y pedir ayuda”. – Antonio Márquez, Estudiante de SDSU. lograr. Sin embargo, lo difícil no solo es obtener todos los documentos requeridos para las becas, sino también sobrepasar el orgullo que a veces tenemos de pedir ayuda. La verdad, es que como estudiante, a veces es difícil tener conexiones con las personas adecuadas que pueden escribir una carta de recomendación. Lo que muchos no saben es que con algunas becas, no

estudiante, como la ayuda que brinda la Asociación Nacional de Periodistas Hispanos, puede que se vea que solo es para hispanos, cuando es que todos los estudiantes la pueden solicitar. Al escribir un ensayo que es requerido en ocasiones, no hablarás del último reportaje sobre la economía del país, sino de tus propias experiencias que nos hacen únicos. Sé que puede resultar difícil

para algunos de nosotros redactar un ensayo acerca de nostros, pero con la ayuda de amigos, tutores y maestros, podemos llegar a escribir lo que refleja la personalidad y los atributos que nos hace ser únicos. El obstáculo que tuve que enfrentar fue dejar el orgullo y pedir ayuda. Llegué a sentir que a lo mejor otro estudiante necesitaba la beca más que yo, pero muchas veces ese dinero se quedaba sin ser utilizado. En los últimos dos años, he recibido cinco becas de diferentes cantidades, y este semestre, solicité a una más. La beca de Price del colegio comunitario de San Diego fue la que me ayudó mucho. Ese dinero me favoreció no sólo en lo financiero, pero también en lo personal. Pude utilizar esa beca para graduarme, solicitar entrar a SDSU y pagar por mis clases. La única sugerencia que diera a los estudiantes es que busquen becas, y si no encuentran es porque no están buscando bien. Hay ayuda y oportunidades para todos, a veces vienen una vez en el año escolar, y por lo tanto, es importante reconocer que la perseverancia también ayuda.

Foto por Antonio Márquez

Antonio logró obtener una beca para transferirse a la Universidad Estatal de San Diego.

March 20-26, 2017

The Daily Aztec / 7

GENERAL ELECTIONS 2019 CANDIDATE STATEMENTS

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCIAL AFFAIRS

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

Choose one

DUSTIN ADKINS

PRESIDENT Choose one

MARIYA NADBEREZHNA

My name is Mariya Nadberezhna, and my goal is to represent each individual here at SDSU. I hope to accentuate the voices of those who need to be heard by developing an interpersonal relationship with the student body. I wish to strengthen efforts on crucial issues that matter to students at this university; I would like to focus on the quality of student life, mental health awareness, celebration of culture, and many other issues involving our diverse student body that have not yet received their rightful spotlight. I believe that representation matters: as a Ukrainian immigrant woman running for A.S. president, I encourage other international women to step up and pursue leadership positions themselves. Thank you!

Hello SDSU! I am Dustin Adkins and I am running to be your Vice President of Financial Affairs. I have previously served as your Student Support Commissioner, Food Pantry and Resources Coordinator, and Vice President of Finance for Rotaract SDSU. Through these roles, I have learned vital lessons about what it takes to be an effective leader for the students of our university. As your Chief Financial Officer, my top priority will be to ensure student organizations have access to the financial resources they need to succeed. In addition, with my two years of experience on the Aztecs Rock Hunger Leadership Team, I will work to make sure 2019 is another record-breaking year of alleviating food insecurity on campus. Strengthen. Diversify. Sustain. Unify. #VoteSDSU

VICE PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS Choose one

CHRISTIAN ONWUKA

Hello SDSU! My name is Christian Onwuka and I am running to be your next A.S. President. While serving on the Associated Students Board of Directors as your Vice President of Financial Affairs, Fowler College of Business Representative, and member of the SDSU Black Resource Center Planning Committee, I have gained the necessary experience to serve all students, while enhancing the SDSU experience holistically. As your Chief Executive Officer, I will work to ensure the ARC endowment plan develops with the original intent of ensuring students receive the financial support they need. Additionally, I want to highlight campuswide resources for students to utilize in preparation for life after graduation, and continue to facilitate conversations regarding the viewpoints of all students. Strengthen. Diversify. Sustain. Unify. #VoteSDSU

GEORGE SCOTT

My name is George Scott, and I am running to be your Associated Students Vice President of University Affairs. I am a third year international student looking to provide a voice for non-traditional students across campus. While at SDSU, I have served as the Representative and Commissioner for the Recreation and Wellness Commission of Associated Students, Vice President of Health and Wellness for the Interfraternity Council, student representative on the Alcohol and Other Drugs task force, and a member of the Student Health Advisory Committee. As Chief Academic Officer, my goals are to increase opportunities for undergraduate research, expand availability of high demand undergraduate classes, and improve resources available to students facing mental health issues. Strengthen. Diversify. Sustain. Unify. #VoteSDSU

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

WINSTON LIEW

Serving Associated Students as the College of Engineering Representative this year has allowed me to see more of the university. I noticed the university thrived the most when I saw people of different cultures and disciplines come together and play to their strengths. If I get elected, I intend on putting professional development for students a top priority by creating opportunities for individuals to excel through all 8 colleges instead of just their own. As a resident advisor, I encourage people from all over the world to form a thriving community. I wish to do that, but for all students.

Choose one

CHRISTIAN HOLT

Hello all, I am Christian Holt and I am running to be your Associated Students Executive Vice President. During my time serving as a Community Assistant in Residential Education, the Student Director and founder of the Black Affinity Initiative at SDSU, being a member of Rotaract SDSU, the Student Diversity Commission as a Voting member, and being a welcoming face in campus facilities such as the Student Union. I have stretched my passion for serving others into many unique spaces. Leaving these spaces with a new understanding of what empathy, compassion, and leadership are. As your Chief Operating Officer, I will make sure ALL students feel at home when stepping foot on campus. Leadership is about serving your community, not letting your community serve you.

KYLA BLAYLOCK

Hello SDSU! My name is Kyla Blaylock and I’m running to be your A.S. Executive Vice President. Growing up on this campus, I knew I wanted to immerse myself in the community and give back to, what has become, my SDSU family. That’s why, over the past three years, I have served as the Aztec Student Union Board Commissioner and Representative, and contributed to the Student Media Advisory Committee. Through these experiences, I’ve acquired the skills necessary to successfully cultivate a vibrant campus life, and represent the best interests of all students. As your Chief Operating Officer, I will continue to develop framework that will increase campus sustainability efforts, ensure growth of intentional university programming, and strengthen campuswide partner collaborations. Strengthen. Diversify. Sustain. Unify. #VoteSDSU

VICE PRESIDENT OF EXTERNAL RELATIONS Choose one

ANGELICA ESPINOZA

Hello SDSU! My name is Angelica Espinoza and I’m running to be your next Vice President of External Relations. I have served as your Chief Justice for the A.S Judicial Affairs Council, Executive Vice President for the College of Arts and Letters, and have served on both the executive boards for Dance Marathon at SDSU and SDSU Rotaract. Along with three years of experience working in the political realm, I have acquired the necessary skills to advocate for you on a local, state, and federal level. As your Chief Communications Officer I will work towards ending food and housing insecurity on campus, organize the expansion of our A.S. legal services, and ensure we increase civic engagement among students. Strengthen. Diversify. Sustain. Unify. #VoteSDSU

STEPHANIE ESTRADA

How can I focus in class when my stomach is louder than my thoughts? We want academic success but we need a healthy well-being. Where does my tuition money even go? We want purposeful spending but we need a clear conscience. Why are my units not transferable? We want to graduate on time but we need financial stability. Where do I get job experience without being legally eligible? We want to work in the field we love but we need liberation from documentation. If honored, as your Vice President of External Relations, I will demand systemic change on and off campus so that students never have to choose between what is desired and what is necessary, because what we want is exactly what we need.

Monday, March 25

CAMPUS LIFE COUNCIL CONRAD PREBYS AZTEC STUDENT UNION PROGRAM BOARD COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

No Candidates

CAMPUS COMMUNITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

DAVID GAMBLE

Hello SDSU, My name is David Gamble and I am running to be your next Campus Community Commission Representative! Within my first year, I have actively engaged within the Associated Students Campus Community, Community Service, and Student Diversity Commissions, while serving on the Aztecs Rock Hunger Leadership Team, volunteering weekly at the Food Pantry, and fundraising for the Tijuana Home Build initiative. As Chapultepec Hall President and Philanthropy Chair of Phi Gamma Delta, I have strived to foster community involvement, campus interconnectedness, and servant leadership. As the Community Service Representative, I aspire to continue these efforts, increasing collaborative community service efforts, promoting your philanthropy events, and connecting with local mental health services to cultivate partnerships that benefit our students. Take a Gamble with David Gamble!

About the Candidate Statements

Associated Students invited all candidates to submit a written statement not to exceed 125 words for today’s election special publication. Statements appear as they were submitted by each candidate. No corrections were made by the A.S. or The Daily Aztec. However, some changes to formats for the purpose of uniformity were necessary. The views, opinions, statements or other content in these statements belong to the respective candidates and are not endorsed or fact-checked by the Associated Students, The Daily Aztec, San Diego State University or any of their officers or employees. Other Election Information

Please note: All regularly enrolled SDSU students paying the A.S. student body organization fee, may vote for the A.S. Executive Officers and Campus Life Council Representatives. Students may only vote for the A.S. Council College candidates from their respective colleges. Write-In Candidates are eligible for all elected positions after submitting required candidate forms in the A.S. Office, 3rd floor of the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union, by March 22 at 12pm.

Call 619.594.6555 for more info or visit www.as.sdsu.edu

VOTE!

Thru Thursday, March 28 on SDSU WebPortal

(Starting at 8am)

(Ending at 7pm)

March 20-26, 2019

8 / The Daily Aztec

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS GENERAL ELECTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

STEPHEN JACKSON

Hello, I am Stephen Jackson, a first year Business Management Major running for the position of Community Service Commission Representative. As the CSC Representative I would strive to communicate with SDSU and surrounding communities to identify the most pressing, real world problems, and find ways to address them in a direct, effective manner. Through my experiences of obtaining Eagle Scout, leading events as an active member of CSC, and serving as philanthropy chair for an on-campus student organization, I believe I am well qualified and versed in leadership, and the operation of the Community Service Commission. If elected, I will represent the student body with passion, integrity, and determination. Together, we can develop a commission that is community based and community built.

RECREATION & WELLNESS COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

HANNAH STREPHANS

Hello SDSU! I am Hannah Strephans and I am running to be your Recreation and Wellness Commission Representative! Since the beginning of the fall semester, I’ve been a voting member for the Recreation and Wellness commission which has encouraged me to continue my path in Associated Students. I am currently the Hall Council president for Cuicacalli Suites and an undergraduate teacher’s assistant for microbiology. With this leadership experience, I want to be able to transfer that to one of my passions which is health and wellness. My goal is to motivate students to see the importance of health and wellness and to apply it throughout day-to-day life, because the healthy habits we create now will forever linger.

TOMMY KNOPF

As an A.S. leader I plan to continue to promote the eight dimensions of wellness to students around campus, particularly mental health. I am currently the Vice President for Phi Kappa Psi and have been a part of the Recreation and Wellness Commission for two years. George Scott, the current Chair and former representative of the commission, introduced me to Recreation and Wellness my first semester at San Diego State. He took me under his wing and showed me what it's like make an impact on our campus. We share the same passion for bettering the students of this school, which is what motivated me to apply for this position. I strive to continue what he started and continue to improve our school.

KIANA CHARLES

Student Support Commission Representative, continued

DARIA DRAGICEVIC

Hi, my name is Daria Dragicevic and I am running to be your Student Support Commission Representative! Here at SDSU, I have continued to grow, lead, and learn with a great group of students through the Women’s Club Water Polo Team, the Student Ability Success Center Advocates group, and working with Instructional Technology Services. I am passionate and committed to working with and addressing a diverse group of students who could utilize the many resources and support groups we have on campus! I have personally felt clueless on campus of where to go for support, whether that be for disability resources or safety concerns, and I would love to be the liaison between these organizations and the student body. Thank you for considering me!

RYAN PHAM

Hey SDSU! I am Ryan Pham, and I am running to be your next Student Support Commission Representative. During my tenure if appointed, my goals are simple and direct: to serve you and provide the resources and initiatives you deserve as a student at SDSU. I plan on expanding the framework of SCC and ensuring what we do is accessible — after all, it is meant for YOU — by building upon our current programs and establishing more resources. It has been a privilege to shadow previous A.S. leaders that have defined my experience at SDSU through being an active member on several commissions, FLI, and more. I look forward to making SDSU a better campus, so hope you vote PHAM for your SSC Representative!

SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

KELLY RENTON

HEY SDSU!! My name is Kelly Renton and I am running to be your Sustainability Commission Representative! As an Economics/Public Policy major and Sustainability minor, I have gained a unique understanding of the pivotal role sustainability plays in our lives. Apart from academics, I am the President of Greeks Gone Green, and involved in Green Love and Delta Gamma. Being president of an organization with the goal of bringing sustainability into the hands of students has given me the skills and confidence needed to further develop sustainability programs and initiatives on our campus. These experiences have taught me the value in making sustainability accessible to everybody, and I am honored to have the opportunity to represent YOU and continue growing a sustainable SDSU!

MAYER POHLOD

As the Recreation and Wellness Representative, I would focus on complete wellness because a healthy lifestyle is multidimensional and goes beyond physical fitness. I was Vice Chair of GreenFest, President of The Yoga Foundation, and Co-Chair for the Sustainable Food Committee in Green Love. Now I hope to expand my reach to something I am even more passionate about, wellbeing. To me that means love and appreciation of the self and those around us, as you never know what someone is going through, practicing mindfulness, and even evaluating our impact on the planet. My intention with running for this position is to make positive changes through helping students find better ways to nourish the mind, body, and soul, while also cultivating community.

Hello Aztecs! My name is Mayer Pohlod and I’m running to be your Sustainability Commission Representative. I’m a fourth year Sustainability and Communications double major and I’ve been involved with Greenlove for the last three years. Within it I’ve served on and as co-chair of the Green Lunch Bag Series committee as well as been a part of the Greeks Gone Green committee. Additionally, I’m a part of Epsilon Eta, the recently formed Environmental Honors Fraternity after joining in its second semester of existence. SDSU is a pioneer on the college landscape regarding sustainable practices and preserving the environment, and it’s my goal to continue that trend. Together we can all make a positive Green impact on the environment and community around us!

STUDENT DIVERSITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE

STUDENT-AT-LARGE CAMPUS REPRESENTATIVE

Choose one

AUBREY BENITO

HEY AZTECS! My name is Aubrey Benito and I am excited to be running as your A.S. Student Diversity Representative. I serve on the A.S. First-year Leadership Experience Team, involved with Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity, and a proud member of the Asian American Pacific Islander Community. With my diverse involvement on campus, I am prepared to be a dependable and accessible leader for you all. As your Student Diversity Representative, I will prioritize collaboration with the variety of organizations and communities that make SDSU such an amazing place, in order to gain a better understanding on what programs or initiatives you would like to implement. Together, we will create a more unified, diverse Aztec community.

STUDENT SUPPORT COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

QUINN RAWDIN

Hello SDSU! I am Quinn Rawdin and I am first year student at San Diego State and I am running to be the next Student Support Commission Representative. While I have not yet had the opportunity to serve in A.S., I have the mindset and motivation to work hard every day to be a strong and effective voice for our campus’ student support and ensure every student is aware of the support services held here at SDSU. As a committed member to the Student Support Commission, I have a precise vision of the success that can be achieved by and understand the ultimate goal of this commission: ensure every student feels comfortable on campus and enhance their awareness of the support services here at SDSU.

Choose two

RYAN DU

Fellow SDSU students, My name is Ryan Du, and I am running for the position of Student-at-Large Campus Representative because of passion. Passion for SDSU and passion for change. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to serve as a leader all over campus, including current involvements: A.S. Marketing and Communications Commissioner, IFC Vice President of Public Relations, and Career Services Student Assistant. Within these involvements, I have gained experience in communicating with students about pressing issues such as career ambivalence, sexual assault awareness, and political/cultural affairs. If elected, I plan to utilize the experiences I have accumulated to better our future by shining light on the unheard voices of this campus. Together, we can #BridgeTheGap.

BADR SULEIMAN

Fellow SDSU students, I am honored to be running for the position as your next Student-At-Large Campus Representative. My mission is simple: to serve the SDSU student population by acting on your concerns and, in the process, uniting our campus. Throughout my time at SDSU, I have seen and experienced first-hand, the difficulty and frustration amongst students in regards to having their voice heard. As a result of this, I’ve found the desire and need to sharpen the connection between the general body and members of Associated Students. If elected, I can ensure an SDSU experience centered around students and an increase in the volume of your voice. Together, we can #BridgeTheGap.

MAREW YOUSIF

Hi, my name is Marew Yousif. I’m a first-year business-finance major, and I’m running to be YOUR Student-at-Large Campus Representative. This past year I found a family in A.S. and helping others do the same has turned into a passion of mine. My goal is to not only be the voice the student body, but to promote the diversity within everyone to bring this campus closer together.

VOTE! MARCH 25-28 ON SDSU WEBPORTAL

March 20-26, 2017

The Daily Aztec / 9

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS GENERAL ELECTIONS Student-At-Large Campus Representative, continued

COURTNEY PARKS

My name is Courtney Parks and I am a second year speech, language, and hearing sciences major. As an Associated Student leader, my goals involve impacting the lives of others in a positive way. I plan on continuing successful traditions, but using my knowledge and experience to improve them and create new ideas. I want to represent the student body and inspire others to be involved in their campus and community. I have learned a lot through my experience as volunteer coordinator of Community Service Commission, my role as a supplemental instruction leader, and my position of assistant VP community service for my sorority. It is through these leadership roles and my passion for helping others that inspired me to pursue a government leadership role.

UNIVERSITY COUNCIL COLLEGE OF ARTS AND LETTERS REPRESENTATIVE Choose three

JACOB TUCHBAND

Hello SDSU! I am Jacob Tuchband and I am running to be your College of Arts and Letters Representative. In A.S., I have been a member of the External Relations Board and Lobby Corps, applying myself toward the betterment of SDSU and the CSU. Through the First Year Leadership Initiative, I gained insightful advocacy skills that have allowed me to further my passion for servant-leadership. As CAL Rep, I will devote myself to the empowerment of ALL College of Arts and Letters students, to represent ALL voices, and to advocate on behalf of ALL concerns, never shying away from fighting for those who have felt overlooked. With honesty, integrity, and humility, we will #RaiseTheBar

AIDAN WINTER

Hello SDSU! My name is Aidan Winter and I’m running to be the College of Arts and Letters Representative. While at SDSU, I have been an active member of A.S. Recreation and Wellness Commission, held multiple positions within my fraternity and am a member of the Pre-Law society. As CAL Representative, I will promote the majors housed in our college to grow student involvement in College of Arts and Letters. Being from New Mexico, I struggled my freshman year to find connections to become involved and it took me a long time to get a firm foundation here at SDSU. This experience pushed me to seek a leadership role where I can connect with students to help them grow their network and become more involved.

DAVID ALLEN POMERANZ

College of Business Representative, continued

JOE BESAGNO

Hello Fowler Students! I am Joe Besagno and I am running to be your College of Business Representative. While at SDSU, I have dedicated myself to improving our experience. I am excited to utilize my knowledge of selfless leadership cultivated from my involvement with the First Year Leadership Initiative, AS Marketing Commission, and my fraternity. As College of Business Representative, I will work to ensure that ALL students in our College have the skills necessary to be successful. To help our College achieve its fullest potential, I will establish a vision, a commitment to that vision, and a strong passion behind everything we do. I value the thoughts of every student and will make sure each voice is heard while I serve as your Representative.

LANDON DELGADILLO

Hi I'm Landon Delgadillo, I’m running for Fowler College of Business Representative. As a first-year accounting major I provide a unique input between Fowler College of Business and students. I’m a San Diego native, commuter and inaugural Fowlers Scholar. I’ve been coming to SDSU since my kindergarten class visited on a field trip. The Fowler College of Business is one of the biggest colleges here, it’s intimidating, students don’t want to feel like just a number. My relationship with Dean Nail as a mentor has allowed me to understand our college and the needs of our students. If elected Representative I will work to ensure students at the Fowler College of Business connect to their faculty and feel like more than a number.

JACINDA MOLINA

Hello, Aztecs! I am Jacinda Molina and I’m running to be your next College of Business Representative. I am a first year Business Management and Entrepreneurship major with a plan to double minor in Interdisciplinary Studies and Marketing. I value professionalism, hard work, and creating success for the student. As the current Director of Recruitment for the Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and taking part in the First Year Leadership Initiative, I am prepared with the leadership skills to advocate for you. I am confident in my ability to encourage student campus involvement and helping the Fowler College of Business continue to grow.

SEAN TOOHEY

Hello SDSU Students, My name is Sean Toohey and I am running to be YOUR next A.S. College of Business Representative. I am a Finance Major with a Minor in Real Estate. I have real-world business experience as I’ve been certified in both Marketing and Sales at my tenure with payroll service company Global Cash Card. As an A.S. Representative, my goal is to provide students with more opportunities for professional experience within their major through collaboration with Career Services, as well as providing more involvement opportunities for students through our SDSU business organizations. I am confident in my ability to lead the SDSU business community to new heights, ensure that YOUR voice is heard, and create success for all College of Business students.

I am a San Diego Native, living near our beautiful campus my whole life. I knew I would attend SDSU since I was a boy, and I am glad my dream came true. Nothing would bring me more pleasure than to fight for my fellow students and ensure they get what they need to succeed. That means fighting against fee increases, and being a barrier to the restrictive rules and regulations some may want to enforce on us. I have the experience necessary to represent the College of Arts and Letters, and most importantly, I am dedicated to fighting for the future of SDSU and all the students in it. Thank you for this amazing opportunity.

CARSON GOSSLER

FNU MUMTAZ

MILES STREICEK

I’m from Afghanistan. I worked with the U.S. in numerous military branches with Generals and Colonels as a legal and cultural advisor, interpreter, and translator. I have worked in human resources. I am qualified for The College of Arts and Letters Representative. I have experience to deal with intercultural relations. I left Afghanistan due to the threat I faced from Taliban. I came to California, I received my associate degree from Grossmont College. I’m a transfer student. It is my first year at SDSU. I am double majoring in Political Science and ISCOR. I am very hardworking. When I put my name on something, it means that I have gone over it. I am able to perform well under trying circumstances. Thank you for your consideration.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE Choose four

ANTHONY MONISTERI

Hey! I’m Anthony, a Business Administration major with a specialization in entrepreneurship hoping to represent you on the College of Business Council. I’d prioritize the College’s online presence, making the useful business tools and resources accessible from your computer, reducing tedious visits to the office. I’d also set up a direct line of communication to me to ensure your voice is heard loud and clear in A.S. The College of Business Council organizations can also count on me to support their ambitious projects. My previous leadership and service experience roles as well as my attempts at launching an online business will lead me to be an effective and productive College of Business Council Representative. I would greatly appreciate your vote, thank you!

CHRISTINE KELLER

Hi Fellow Students! My name is Christine Keller and I would love to be your next Business Representative! Currently I serve as VP External Relations for the College of Business Council, represent SDSU as an admissions assistant, sit on the Financial Affairs Committee for A.S., and have served roles as the VP Finance and Community director for campus organizations such as American Marketing Association. I believe I can best represent all business students in this role because of my experience with both the college council and A.S. committees. In this role, I hope to enhance student connections within the college, facilitate more communication with Fowler faculty, and better inform business majors of the resources both AS and the College of Business can provide.

JON SODEN

Hi SDSU! I am Jon Soden and I am running to be the next College of Business Representative! I currently serve as the A.S. Undeclared College Representative, and after declaring as a business major, I am ready to take on this role. I believe I have the qualifications necessary for this position; that is, I have previous experience on A.S. and I have worked as a sales representative intern. As your business representative, I will organize events about career paths, distribute information regarding internships, and connect you with people to build your network. I hope you elect me to be the voice of SDSU business students, as I am willing to do what it takes to have our voices heard!

Hi, I’m Carson Gossler and I’m running to be a College of Business Administration Representative! As a freshman, I’ve noticed that there aren’t many younger representatives in office meaning that underclassmen aren’t being sufficiently represented and our voices are not being heard. Vote for me so I can work to bring all students the best experience and opportunities while here at SDSU!

I was born and raised less than two miles from San Diego State and have lived here my entire life. San Diego State is the only community I have ever known and it means the world to me. I will give San Diego State University and it’s students my all, and my everything. I will do everything in my power to represent the interests of all business students as their representative. Greek life will have an ally in A.S. who will fight against efforts to expel chapters from campus. I will fight against any new tuition or fee increases because I understand that the cost of education can be crushing, and many of our brothers and sisters can’t afford to pay a dollar more.

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION REPRESENTATIVE Choose two

CHLOE FOREMAN

If I am appointed the College of Education Representative for the school my goals are to be able to represent the college that I am so passionate about in the best way possible. I want to help encourage others to get involved through both associations. Through my past leadership experience as a Head Swim Instructor for the past two years, I am confident I will be perfect for this role. What motivated me the most to get a leadership role was to be able to get more involved and be able to voice my opinions and ideas to make this a better campus.

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING REPRESENTATIVE Choose three

JOSHUA OLSON

As a part of Rocket Project, I have witnessed the lack of funding and delays in projects or manufacturing due to this dilemma. Likewise, I am an officer in Tau Beta Pi, the engineering honor society, which is held on a low budget mainly used for recruitment and is limited to few professional events. With the addition of funding for the College of Engineering, students can become more involved with hands-on projects and professional networking beyond the limitations of low-budget design and manufacturing. As a representative for over two dozen engineering clubs and organizations here on campus, I feel that it is imperative to deliver the needs of such a technical field of study within this number of organizations.

MATTHEW BLAKE

Hello, I am Matthew Blake. I’m running for the A.S. College of Engineering Representative. I have taken leadership roles on the club rugby team and within my fraternity. Now it’s time for me to serve the students of the college of engineering. As your representative I would increase involvement with more opportunities to network within the college and better advertising them to the engineering community. By creating more interactive, engaging, and larger events, interest in engineering would increase and so would the resources allotted to its clubs and organizations. I believe increasing involvement and an increase in resources for clubs, can accelerate our college’s path to elite status. This would help show the world that The SDSU College of Engineering produces the best engineers.

March 20-26, 2019

10 / The Daily Aztec

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS GENERAL ELECTIONS College of Engineering Representative, continued

AARON EPPSTEIN

As the current Chief Engineer for the Human Powered Vehicle Competition, the challenge of limited work space is apparent. With the amount of engineering organizations on campus, the requirement of shared workspace and the lack of room stunts the growth of the College of Engineering entirely. If elected, I would fight for the numerous engineering clubs and their need for more space as faculty pushes everybody out.

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE Choose three

JAYDEN MATTSON

My name is Jayden Mattson and I am running to be your College of Health and Human Services Representative. Currently I am a second year Public Health student who plans on attending graduate school to pursue a career in medicine. If elected to be an A.S. leader, I will work my hardest to represent and accomplish the needs of all health and human services students as well as encourage student involvement. As the current Director of External Events for Alpha Phi on campus, I understand the need for leadership both on and off campus and plan to use this experience emphasize the need for good interpersonal and human relation skills with all the students of this college.

WILLIAM JAGGER GIN

Hello College of Health and Human Services Students, My name is William Gin and I am running to be your College of Health and Human Services Representative. I am currently a Public Health major with a minor in Public Administration as I am striving to become a Firefighter-Paramedic in the future. If I was elected to be your A.S. leader I would represent the needs of all Health and Human Services students. It is my goal to help all students gain experience in their respectful fields of study. With my current position as Vice President of Recruitment for Sigma Phi Epsilon and my license as an Emergency Medical Technician, I believe that my hard work will lead this college to new levels of excellence.

COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES AND FINE ARTS REPRESENTATIVE Choose three

VICKY EVANS

Hey SDSU! My name is Vicky Evans and I am a third year Communication major minoring in Digital and Social Media Studies. This past year I served as the representative for The College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts for Associated Students. Having previous experience in this role i’ve learned a great deal and hope to use my knowledge to better serve my fellow students. I value the multitude of resources and organizations our campus has to offer and strive to help other students find the tools they need to succeed. If reelected, I will advocate for the interests of the student body and work to strengthen the connection between our administration and students. Vote Vicky Evans for your next College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts Representative!

CRYSTAL SANCHEZ

SDSU Community, My name is Crystal Sanchez and I’m running to be reelected as your Representative for the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts. I am a second year Interdisciplinary Major emphasizing in Public Relations, Hospitality, and Public Administration with a minor in Spanish. In addition to holding roles in Delta Gamma and the Greek Life Activities Board, as PSFA Rep I have actively served to address nutritional insecurity, civic engagement, and mental health. With another term, I plan to continue implementing projects to better our college. I hold a passion for serving others. By being a voice for all who feel they have been outspoken and promoting diversity throughout campus, I plan to unite our college. Vote Crystal Sanchez for your PSFA representative!

DAISY KENT

Hello Fellow Students! My name is Daisy Kent and I would be honored to be your next Professional Studies and Fine Arts Representative! Currently, I serve as Vice President of Academics for the Professional Studies and Fine Arts College Council, I am part of the Panhellenic council at San Diego State University, Alpha Phi executive member and also hold the position of watch care. I would represent the PSFA students very well because of the leadership positions I have held and my passion for student involvement. In this role, I hope to connect students to both the A.S. and PSFA resources, initiate new opportunities and help with career development.

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES REPRESENTATIVE Choose four

BRIANNE CROWTHER

Hello SDSU! My name is Brianne Crowther and I am running to be your next College of Sciences Representative. I am a third year Biology major following the pre-med track. I currently hold a position as External Relations Chair for MEDLIFE and I am actively involved in the College of Science Student Council as a representative for MEDLIFE. I am also an active member in Aztec Pre-Professional Health Organization and a Peer Health educator here at SDSU. As an Associated Students Representative, I plan to create a strong line of communication between students and administration to voice concerns and help students form long-lasting professional relationships with faculty. I also aim to advocate for more student involvement to make the College of Science feel more connected.

College of Sciences Representative, continued

CHRISTINE GOTTHARDT

My name is Christine Gotthardt, and I am a second-year Cellular and Molecular Biology major. I currently serve on the Leadership Board of Women in Science Society, and as a result I want to represent the science community here at SDSU. I plan to aid the entire student body of the College of Sciences by holding relevant workshops, Q&A panels, and other events that will benefit the academics and professional goals of the students. As a STEM major, it is easy to feel helpless and alone in academics; I want to create the community we all need and deserve in the College. If elected, I promise to be personally available to everyone and to cater events to your direct needs.

DIVA ZECKUA

My name is Diva Zeckua, I am a first-year chemistry major and I am running to become a College of Sciences representative. As a first-generation college student and a commuter Compact Scholar, I strive to represent anyone who identifies with me and everyone in the College of Sciences. To me, being a leader in any organization comes with dedication and willingness to contribute into its success. As a freshman and a student-at-large representative at the College of Sciences Student Council, an active member at the American Medical Student Association chapter, and secretary of the Italian club on campus, I want to encourage new and current students to get involved and explore the amazing opportunities that SDSU has to offer!

JACOB DOWNEY

My name is Jacob Downey and I am a second year majoring in Computer Science running for the College of Sciences A.S. Representative. This semester, I became a Computer Science tutor and I absolutely love helping students discover that aha moment. I have tutored numerous students, as well as occasionally advised them to check out a major-related club I think they would enjoy. I feel like my current impact stops there, but I want to expand it to the entire College of Sciences. As an A.S. Representative, I would strive to connect students to organizations and faculty, as well as create collaborations between the different organizations and majors within the College of Sciences. Thank you!

PATRICK PERRINE

My mission is to effectively communicate between Associated Students and the College of Sciences Student Council regarding student rights, issues, and policies. I shall represent the College of Sciences student body in a personable, yet professional manner. My leadership experience includes, but is not limited to, being the Secretary for both the Virtual Reality Club and Artificial Intelligence Club at SDSU. Using my unique experiences with multiple science-based clubs, I intend to utilize my communication skills to bridge the gap between A.S. and the CSSC. I shall bring recognized, science-based clubs closer to the CSSC to receive funding and representation. I shall also uphold my own academic responsibilities for the coming academic year, whilst leading authentically from the heart through this position.

JR LAURON

My name is JR Lauron and I am running to be YOUR next College of Sciences Representative. I am an Industrial Organizational Psychology major and Leadership minor. I currently serve as the Community Affairs Coordinator for Andrés Bonifacio Samahan, in addition to being a proud member of Rotaract, Psychology Club, and APSA. With my extensive leadership background and involvement on campus, especially with API organizations, I believe I have a unique perspective coming into this role. My mission is to be the voice for underrepresented students in the College of Sciences, address issues and instill solutions to our academic needs, and promote active communication in our institution. I pledge to lead with heart as I uphold myself for our community, by our community.

UNDECLARED / UNCLASSIFIED STUDIES REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

ISABELLA MARTELINO

Hey Aztecs!!! I’m Bella Martelino and I came to SDSU knowing nothing about what I wanted in my future. One semester later, I knew exactly what I wanted to be: your representative for the students of undeclared studies! (What else were you expecting?) As your representative, I aim to help guide those unsure of their future to an environment that welcomes exploration of different paths. I’m committed to creating more opportunities for hands-on undeclared workshops as well as having advisory meetings tailored specifically to your background. My vision for this upcoming year is to implement opportunities that include real-world experiences and application. With your help, I believe we can make the path for us undeclared Aztecs a little more clear.

HARLEY DICKINSON

Throughout my life, I have always assumed leadership roles. With the support of all those that I have gained the trust of and how I hold myself amongst others, I have continuously made an impact with improving many things involving my community. I was treasurer of my elementary school, president of my middle school, captain of every soccer team I played for, and am secretary of the UCC here, at SDSU. Holding the secretary position on the UCC has allowed me to see the potential for improvement and is the driving force of my eagerness to obtain this position. As an A.S. leader, I plan to be extremely active in helping undeclared students find their major and motivate them to get involved on campus.

GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT No Candidates

Choose one

Vote Monday, March 25 (Starting at 8am) Thru Thursday, March 28 (Ending at 7pm) on SDSU WebPortal

Sports

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett â&#x20AC;˘ sports@thedailyaztec.com

The Daily Aztec

Mountain West Tournament QUARTERFINALS

No. 4 SDSU - 63

SDSU faced a de facto road test against UNLV to start the Mountain West Tournament, taking on the Runninâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rebels at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas on March 14. The game was tied 47-47 with less than four minutes to play, but the Aztecs pulled away after going on a 16-8 run to survive and advance to the semifinals.

Photos by Jocelyn Moran

No. 4 SDSU - 65

No. 5 UNLV - 55

SEMI

FINALS

No. 1 NEVADA - 56

SDSU rebounded from a 28-point loss to Nevada only six days before, defeating the Wolf Pack on March 15 to advance to the championship game. The Aztecs held Nevada scoreless for more than seven minutes in the final period, allowing the lower-seeded Scarlet and Black to overtake the Wolf Pack and end the game on a 16-5 run.

Photos by Raymond Gorospe

No. 4 SDSU - 57

No. 2 UTAH STATE - 64 FINALS

Photos by Raymond Gorospe

The Aztecs trailed Utah State 57-46 with less than six minutes left, when sophmore forward Jalen McDaniels fouled out of the game. Despite missing its leading scorer, SDSU clawed its way back, cutting the deficit to five with 2:41 to play.

The Aztecs could not complete the comeback, however, and had to settle for tournament runnersup. Senior guard Jeremy Hemsley fouled out with 28 seconds left and was emotional as he walked off the court one last time as an Aztec.

Sports

The Daily Aztec

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Aztecs’ season ends in heartbreaking loss by Aaron Tolentino ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

San Diego State senior guard Jeremy Hemsley fouled out with 28 seconds left, and as he headed back to the bench, he embraced many of his teammates and coaches. Tears. Collectively, the Aztecs’ postgame environment in the locker room was dominated by one thing. Silence. Emotions flowed for SDSU, following a 64-57 loss to Utah State in the Mountain West Conference tournament championship game on March 16 at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas. Hemsley said he was full of emotions knowing he will never step onto a court with his Aztec teammates again. “I hugged my teammates because I knew I won’t be on the court with them again,” Hemsley said. “So of course I was emotional.” Head coach Brian Dutcher was

also emotional talking about his seniors who have played their last game as Aztecs, adding his praise on the legacy they have left at SDSU. “I love my seniors, Jeremy and Devin (Watson),” Dutcher said. “When they have kids of their own, they can come back, look in the rafters (at Viejas) and show their kids the banners they hung…I’m proud of both of them.” Hemsley and Watson, with 5:57 left and a 57-46 deficit, watched sophomore forward Jalen McDaniels foul out, and freshman forward Aguek Arop was his replacement for the remaining minutes. Things seemed to be falling apart for the Aztecs, who lost their leading scorer, but the team was still able to cut into the 11-point deficit. Watson hit a 3-pointer with 3:50 left to cut the Aggies’ lead to single digits at 57-49. The Aztecs cut it as close as five points when sophomore forward Matt Mitchell knocked down a 3-pointer to make it 57-52 with 2:41 left.

However, since the time McDaniels fouled out, the Aztecs had even more opportunities and good looks to come back but missed more than they made. In those final six minutes, SDSU shot 4-for-15 (26 percent) from the field and 3-for-9 (33 percent) from 3-point range. Shooting 33 percent from three may not seem that bad, but the amount of wide-open looks the Aztecs had makes that 33 percent a bit more disappointing. Arop and Mitchell combined for three wide-open looks from distance that didn’t fall. Mitchell went 1-for-5 from beyond the arc in the final three minutes. Dutcher said SDSU had the opportunities from 3-point range to come back but did not cash in. “We got those looks and we didn’t make them,” Dutcher said. “(Mitchell) is a pretty good shooter. He got looks we wanted but we didn’t make enough of those down the stretch.” Watching from the bench with his five fouls, McDaniels said despite the effort, his team did not make enough key shots down

Photo by Raymond Gorospe

Sophomore guard Jordan Schakel reaches for the ball from Utah State junior guard Diogo Brito during the Aztecs’ 64-57 loss on March 16 at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas.

the stretch. “I thought we were trying to compete at the highest level possible,” McDaniels said. “We had some opportunities. Obviously, we didn’t convert. That’s the game of basketball – you’re not going to make them all.” Utah State didn’t make all its shots either but made enough to topple the Aztecs. The Aggies shot 40 percent from the field, compared to SDSU’s 33

percent. Junior guard Sam Merrill – the Mountain West Player of the Year and conference tournament MVP – led the way for Utah State with 24 points. Hemsley, Merrill’s primary defender, kept the Aggies’ star in check early. Merrill started off with four points on 2-of-6 shooting, 0-of4 from distance in the first 15 minutes of the first half.

COLUMN

Aztecs fail to finish by Kyle Betz SENIOR STAFF WRITER

San Diego State men’s basketball entered the Mountain West Tournament seeking its second straight tournament championship and subsequent NCAA tournament berth. Barring its 65-56 semifinal victory over Nevada, the Scarlet and Black faced shooting issues throughout the tournament. These issues became the demise of the Aztecs’ title hopes. In its quarterfinal win over UNLV on March 14, SDSU collectively shot less than 30 percent from the field but were carried by redshirt sophomore forward Jalen McDaniels’ 25-point, 14-rebound performance. Offensively, it seemed as if the Aztecs were lucky to escape with the win. In the championship game loss vs. Utah State, the SDSU’s second-half shooting slump -including a 3-for-17 showing from beyond the arc -- ended its own season. However, there are more positives than negatives that can be taken away from the Aztecs’ tournament run. Playing UNLV at its own Thomas and Mack Center in the first round is a tough enough task. Being able to stay disciplined and pull away in the last three minutes of a low-scoring affair is another. The win was gritty, much like the Aztecs’ close wins throughout the season.

After taking down the Runnin’ Rebels, SDSU was slated to take on the No. 1 seed. SDSU’s 65-56 win over Nevada proves the Aztecs can play with anyone. Yes, even one of the most experienced teams in the country. Nevada played SDSU without senior forward Jordan Caroline, but the Aztecs prevailed, as four out of five starters finished in double figures. Not to mention, SDSU has defeated Nevada in four out of the last six games. In the championship game, the Aggies and tournament MVP junior guard Sam Merrill got the best of SDSU. The story might be different, however, if the Aztecs played a full 40 minutes. Same applies to the Aztecs’ losses to Fresno State during conference play. There are several reasons SDSU men’s basketball is held in high regard: one being it has the most Mountain West Tournament titles. The Aztecs have reached the championship game five out of the last six years and finished the 2018-19 season with over 21 wins. For the 14th consecutive year, SDSU has had over 19 wins each season. Again, the Aztecs had the opportunity to make another NCAA tournament run. It just wasn’t meant to be this season.

Photo by Raymond Gorospe

Senior guard Jeremy Hemsley embraces his teammates in the closing seconds of the Aztecs’ 64-57 loss to Utah State in the Mountain West Conference tournament final on March 16 at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Clock strikes midnight on Hemsley by Aaron Tolentino ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Within 30 minutes after the buzzer hit triple zero against Utah State to end San Diego State’s season, Jeremy Hemsley sat down in the locker room at the Thomas and Mack Center. It was in Las Vegas for the Mountain West Championships where the senior guard would remove his jersey for the final time. A jersey that had “San Diego State” written across his chest. A jersey that had “Hemsley” and the number 42 on his back. A jersey that he wore for four years at the Mesa. Hemsley said he was reflective of those final moments minutes after the loss. “Emotions are just me realizing that it’s over with,” he said. “I’m not playing with these guys that I love anymore. And that’s just what it is, and that’s okay.” The 6-foot-3 guard from Rancho Cucamonga had his head faced down during parts of the press conference, seemingly

trying to contain his tears. At least his family was able to see him don that jersey one final time. It took until his senior year, but Hemsley’s family made its way to the conference tournament for the first time – his mom, dad, younger brother and younger sister were all in attendance. Hemsley’s family was seen with matching t-shirts that wrote “Team Hemsley” and the number 42 on the back. Hemsley told The Daily Aztec his family was with him every step of the way during his time at SDSU. It was fitting the family got to see its star play one last time. “They’ve done everything for me,” Hemsley said. “They’ve helped me through a tough time in my life. They’ve made me feel like I wasn’t alone. They’ve supported me when I play good or bad. That’s what they always do.” His family has witnessed a career of many ups and downs. From playing in the NCAA Tournament his junior year to averaging 12 points per game as

a freshman to even opening up about his mental illness, Hemsley has been through it all at SDSU. Obviously, Hemsley’s family’s support has been paramount to his success, but the Aztec fans also have a special place in his heart. Hemsley said he cherishes the opportunity to be able to positively influence a fanbase that has supported him all these years since arriving at the Mesa in 2015. “(Fans are) why I play,” Hemsley said. “I want to inspire others. I want to put a smile on other people’s face. With the game I’m playing, hopefully I can keep playing this game for a long time. That’s really what I want to do. The fans mean everything to me.” Hemsley puts smiles on others’ faces but is also constantly having a smile on his face, even amidst intense competition. Fellow senior guard Devin Watson said Hemsley competes hard but still manages to have fun while doing it. “I’m proud of what Jeremy has done all year, guarding the best players,” Watson said. “He does it with a smile on his face and a chip on his shoulder.”

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Sports

The Daily Aztec

Baseball completes sweep of Seattle by Daniel Guerrero STAFF WRITER

San Diego State baseball had a chance to bring in an insurance run in the bottom of eighth inning as the team held on to a 6-5 lead against Seattle University, but instead of one run, the team got five en route to its 11-5 series sweeping win over Seattle University on March 17 at Tony Gwynn Stadium. The Aztecs (11-7, 2-2 MW) were aided by sophomore starting pitcher and third baseman Casey Schmitt who hit two RBIs and a home run and pitched five innings, allowing two runs. Fellow sophomore left fielder Matt Rudick drove in five RBIs in the win, which included his bases-clearing triple in the eighth inning. Head coach Mark Martinez said Rudick’s three-RBI triple gave the team an extra cushion. “(Rudick) had a really good day. The bases loaded triple kind of had us breathe a little bit easier,” Martinez said. Before his triple, Rudick doubled to bring in two runs during a four-run fourth inning for the Aztecs. Rudick said he tries to get on base as the team’s leadoff hitter, but against the Redhawks,

everyone got on base for him. “I’m just trying to get on base for the other guys to hit me in, Rudick said. “I had runners on base for me, and I was just trying to do my job and get a hit.” The 3-for-5, five-RBI day capped off a seven-RBI weekend for Rudick, one that began with him delivering the tenth inning walk-off hit in the Friday, March 15 win. Martinez said Rudick has been a valuable player for the team. “(Rudick’s) just a really good baseball player,” Martinez said. “He understands how to play, he manages his at-bats, he’s a vicious out, he has vicious at-bats all the time and it’s nice to have him at the top of the lineup.” Schmitt’s day at the plate began with a solo home run in the second inning. He then drove in freshman first baseman Brian Leonhardt from third base in the fourth inning for an RBI and added a double and a single later in the ballgame. As a pitcher, Schmitt limited the Redhawks to two runs on four hits in five innings of work, adding six strikeouts. Schmitt said he mentally separates his performances as a pitcher and as a hitter. “I don’t let whatever is happening at the plate affect me

Photo by Raymond Gorospe

Sophomore pitcher Casey Schmitt throws a pitch during the Aztecs 9-8 loss to San Francisco on Feb. 16 at Tony Gwynn Stadium.

on the mound, and I don’t let whatever is happening on the mound affect me at the plate,” Schmitt said. Martinez said Schmitt’s performance showed his potential. “He kind of had to grind through some adversity on the mound and offensively he had four hits,” Martinez said. “He’s capable of doing that. He’s a freshman All-American from last year, and he’s starting to enjoy playing the game and it shows in

his performance.” Leonhardt, SDSU’s usual first baseman, made his third relief outing of the season when he replaced Schmitt on the mound in the sixth inning. He provided his team with two innings of work and one allowed run on two hits. Martinez said the Aztecs could utilize two-way players with their depleted bullpen. “The way our pitching staff is so depleted right now,” Martinez said. “That’s kind of what we’re

going to see down the stretch here.” Next, SDSU will play on the road on March 19 at Loyola Marymount and then to New Mexico for a three-game series starting on March 22. Martinez said the three-game sweep builds momentum for the team before they head on the road. “Winning breeds winning, so hopefully it kind of rides momentum into this really difficult week,” Martinez said.

COLUMN

Aztecs’ season comes up short, but best is yet to come by Tristi Rodriguez STAFF WRITER

San Diego State women’s basketball reached a dead end on March 11 following a 7570 overtime loss to Wyoming in the semifinal round of the Mountain West Tournament. The Aztecs came in as the seventh-seed and defeated tenth-seeded Air Force in the quarterfinals to advance. The following day, SDSU upset second-seeded New Mexico. SDSU (14-18, 7-11 MW) had a rollercoaster of a season but its best has yet to come. Head coach Stacie Terry started four underclassmen. In the beginning of the year, Terry said she was unsure what the season was going to bring. “Right now, we don’t know what this team is going to be,” she said. “We’re going to see where this year takes us.” Well, the year took them one game shy of the MW Championship. Freshman guards Sophia Ramos and Mallory Adams made their marks in their rookie-seasons. Ramos was the leading scorer with an average of 14 points, adding four assists and four rebounds per contest. The 5-foot-9-inch guard was a major factor in SDSU’s success in the MW Tournament in Las Vegas. Ramos was named to the MW All-Tournament Team after forcing overtime against New

Photo by Raymond Gorospe

Freshman guard Sophia Ramos goes in for the layup during the Aztecs’ 64-61 win against Nevada on March 7 at Viejas Arena.

Mexico on a drive to the basket and averaging 16.7 points per game in the tournament. She is the only freshman or underclassman on the list. Ramos said the accolade was a surprise to her. “I didn’t come in with those expectations for myself solely because I didn’t know how my season was going to turn out,” she said. “It shows a lot of the hard work that me and my teammates put in and them pushing me was able to help me be successful in the

tournament.” Her freshman partner-incrime, Adams, led SDSU in rebounds and averaged 12 points and nine rebounds per game. The young duo was named to the Mountain West AllFreshman team. The other two major assets to the team are sophomore guards Najé Murray and Téa Adams. Though just a year of experience under their belts, Murray and Adams had to take on leadership roles early on.

Murray’s focus all season was to prove there’s more to her than scoring. The Stockton native led the Aztecs with 1.9 steals per game. But her scoring did not wither as Murray broke a shooting record. She now holds the record for most 3-pointers in a season with 79. Redshirt junior center Zayn Dornstauder made herself known toward the end of the season. Halfway into the season,

the 6-foot-3-inch center said she was aiming to be more aggressive. She kept her word. Dornstauder finished with three double-doubles, one which came during the semifinal matchup against Wyoming in the MW Tournament. Against the Cowgirls, she finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Dornstauder said her recent success has proved her capability. “It sets a standard,” she said. “I know what I’m capable of. Coaches know what I’m capable of. So just maintaining that and coming out hard once season starts next year.” Team chemistry seemed to be extremely important this season. The Aztecs took a trip to Big Bear Lake in hopes of connecting with one another. “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,” senior forward Arantxa Gómez Ferrer said. Six months later, on senior night, Gomez Ferrer said her team was her favorite thing at SDSU. “I came from high school with a team that was really together and close,” she said. “I came to college knowing it’s way more competitive, things are different and I might not get that. But I got it.”

Sports

The Daily Aztec

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Abraham Jewett • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Lacrosse extends win streak to five by Cristian STAFF WRITER

Alvarez

San Diego State lacrosse defeated Bucknell, 20-8, on Wednesday night at the Aztec Lacrosse Field. The Aztecs (7-1) have won five games in a row and clinched their best eight game start in program history. SDSU was sharp on defense and pulled away early after limiting the Bisons (1-6) to just eight total shots while also preventing the visitors from scoring for over 21 minutes between the two halves. “I was very happy,” head coach Kylee White said. “We never really felt safe until that last buzzer because (Bucknell) made us work for it.” Midfielders Taylor Sullivan, Harlowe Steele and Courtney Robinson led the way for the Aztecs in scoring by racking up three goals each. Steele and Sullivan had identical stat lines on the night with three goals, one assist, six shots and four points each. In the first half, the Aztecs finished the period on a 7-3 run while forcing nine turnovers. Senior attacker Kirstie Greenlaw scored two of the seven goals and assisted twice that put the home team

up 13-6 at halftime. Greenlaw said the team came out strong and played hard on both sides of the ball. “I think the confidence is there,” she said. “We had a lot of the girls who are not in as much really step up today.” The Aztecs have outscored their opponents 80-45 in their last five matches and appear to show no signs of slowing down on the offensive side of the ball. “We’ve had such a great run from these past games,” Greenlaw said. “We have really been excited this entire season.” Senior midfielder Jill Haight had two goals and one assist in the match which now puts her at six goals, four assists and 10 total points on the season. Haight said that the team chemistry has been amazing and every player contributes to their overall success. “Working together has been exciting,” she said. “It’s been on both sides of the ball. It starts with the defense and then on offense we’ve been connecting.” Haight said the coaching staff did a good job of preparing the team to face Bucknell. “I think we came out ready to play as a team,” she said. “We played hard for 60

Photo by Kareem Jones

Sophomore midfielder Bailey Brown takes a shot during the Aztecs’ 15-14 victory over Vanderbilt on March 8 at the SDSU Lacrosse Field.

minutes.” The momentum carried over for the Aztecs in the second half, as the team scored seven times while having 15 shots and seven draw controls. “It helps to have the ball more,” White said. “We did spend some time on

film breaking some of that stuff down and putting the emphasis on getting better.” The Aztecs had a total of 14 turnovers and 12 fouls. White said the competition only gets tougher as the season progresses and if the team wants to keep winning, things

have to change. “We’re going to play some of the top five teams in the country, and we have to clean up that part of our game,” she said. Next up for the Aztecs is LIU Brooklyn on March 16 at the Aztec Lacrosse Field.

Softball fails to produce offense in loss to New Mexico by Breven Honda STAFF WRITER

San Diego State softball was defeated by New Mexico, 3-1, on March 15 at SDSU Softball Stadium. “Minus one inning, it was a great game,” head coach Kathy Van Wyk said. “Our pitchers have gotten off to rocky starts and what I’m most happy, was that (junior starting pitcher Marissa Moreno) didn’t fall into the bottomless pit; she worked her way out of it and as the game went on, she pitched really well.” Moreno, coming off a hand injury that sidelined her for three weeks, started out slow, but was able to overcome it. She suffered a three-run first inning, got out of a basesloaded jam in the second and was able to cruise the next three innings. “The first inning I knew was that I was struggling, so I knew my teammates were going to back me up and we were getting pumped in the dugout,” Moreno said. “We were hopeful in bringing things around.” In five innings for Moreno, she gave up four hits, three runs (all earned), four walks and a career-high 11 strikeouts. Moreno said getting strike one was key to getting an out for the Aztecs. “I knew that if I started ahead I would be able to get an

out or get a ‘K,’” Moreno said. “I was mainly focusing on hitting my spots and it turned out to be pretty good.” Despite not getting much offense, junior outfielder Kiera Wright and senior catcher Molly Sturdivant both recorded two hits. All the scoring was done in the first inning and the lone SDSU run came by Wright on a heads-up play. Wright said this game was able to soothe her. “I thought today’s game was actually very calm,” Wright said. “We also came in her with

coming to you.” Wright said playing non conference teams identifies the variety of opponents the Aztecs (12-14, 0-1 MW) have faced and will face. “It has prepared for diversity because we have faced slow, we have faced fast when they’ve blown it by us,” Wright said. “I definitely think it has prepared us for everything. One thing it has helped us is our defense because…we have to be on our toes.” Van Wyk said conference games are different than non conference games.

“No matter if you make a mistake, you’ll always get another at-bat, you’ll always get another chance the ball is coming to you.” – Kiera Wright junior outfielder a very different confidence because it is conference. We came in with a good mindset today.” The mindset is something for the team to focus on is key now the team is in Mountain West Conference play. This was the Scarlet and Black’s first MWC game on their schedule. “We’re very driven,” Wright said. “The biggest thing for us with our mindset is going up with a clear mind every time, no matter if you make a mistake, you’ll always get another at-bat, you’ll always get another chance the ball is

“Conference is a different animal and we’re in fighter mode all the time,” Van Wyk said. “Everything we did before this is to learn and lead up to this. We’re in fighter mode and get back that confidence,” The Aztecs will face New Mexico on March 16 and 17 before getting ready for a weekend match against No. 24 Boise State March 22-24 in Boise, Idaho. Editors note: Softball went on to win the series after defeating New Mexico in the final two games of the series.

Photo by Raymond Gorospe

Junior pitcher Marissa Moreno pitches during the Aztecs’ 1-0 win over UC Santa Barbara on Feb. 16 at SDSU Softball Stadium.

Arts & Culture

March 20-26, 2019 EDITOR: Julianna Ress • arts@thedailyaztec.com

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Lecture series explores horror films’ appeal by Brenden STAFF WRITER

Tuccinardi

The business of scaring people is very lucrative, and every year, filmmakers, novelists and video game designers push the boundaries between captivating and disgusting audiences. However, no matter how gutwrenching the material may be, people always seem to go back for more, unable to look away. Dr. Andrew McClellan, the Stepsay Post Doctoral Fellow in Classics at San Diego State, discussed this phenomenon Thursday, March 14, kicking off a fourpart lecture series presented by the Department of Classics and Humanities. The series, entitled “Mapping Monstrosity Across Time, Space and Media,” affectionately referred to as “The Monster Mash” by organizers McClellan and Professor Raechel Dumas, will explore the enduring allure of horror and discuss the cultural politics of monsters through an interdisciplinary lens. McClellan, whose background lies in studying the intersections of war, violence and death in Greco-Roman epic poetry and society, presented a broad survey of monsters in antiquity, drawing strong parallels among them and their modern cinematic relatives. He made the case that horror and monsters have always held a special, terrifying place in human imagination, citing philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle and St. Augustine. “I was surprised to find that ancient

scholars, not just poets, articulated the appeal and appall of horror in a similar way that a modern psychologist or philosopher might,” McClellan said. “There is this recognition that something that is horrifying is also inherently alluring.” To illustrate this point, McClellan played a clip from the 1981 werewolf horror film “The Howling,” something first-year French and English major Rhiannon Bill, also a fan of horror, found fascinating. “I am so enthralled by the topic, and it was very cool that (McClellan) talked about mythology while tying it in with modern day horror,” Bill said. “All of the parallels he pointed out were very interesting.” McClellan’s March 14 lecture introduced audiences to the historical context of horror, setting the stage for his colleagues’ lectures in the coming weeks. On Thursday, March 28, at 2 p.m. in AL 101, professor of humanities Raechel Dumas will present on the monstrousfeminine in contemporary Japanese video games, followed by SDSU English professor Phillip Serrato on April 11, and the 25th Annual Adams Lecture in Humanities guest speaker, author Jesse Bullington on April 25. While lectures like this provide audiences with an opportunity to learn about exciting topics and fields of study, the ultimate goal is to create discourse and foster insightful discussions. This can sometimes prove challenging for speakers when translating large nebulous ideas into digestible talks

Photo by Julianna Ress

The Mapping Monstrosity Across Time, Space and Media lecture series will continue in Arts & Letters room 101 on March 28, April 11 and April 25.

tailored toward general audiences. When preparing to speak in a public forum, Dumas said she tries to relate to audiences through visual media and recognizable themes. “I work on texts that most people are familiar with, but I also apply a dense theoretical perspective to them,” Dumas said. “When translating that into something for a more general audience, I like to focus on really common and recognizable images and tropes.” Each lecture, while focusing on monsters and horror, is unique and designed to stand apart from one another.

To hear firsthand how horror is made, audiences can look forward to fantasy and science fiction author Jesse Bullington’s lecture on monsters as a mirror of humanity on Thursday, April 25. “The three of us speaking first are all scholars,” Dumas said. “We’re academics who focus on the dark dimension of culture as analysts. In our final talk, Jesse Bullington will speak to the process as a writer, as well as a voracious consumer of genre literature. He will talk about what he thinks when he develops monstrous characters.”

Phoebe Bridgers and Conor Oberst unite generations of indie rock as new duo Better Oblivion Community Center Oblivion record, “Didn’t Know What I Was in For,” a spare, gorgeous song showcasing the duo’s expert harmonizing. Oberst’s voice is warm and trembling, while Bridgers’s pierces wistfully. “My telephone, it doesn’t have a camera,” Bridgers crooned to open the song, painting one of its several evocative scenes. “If it did I’d take a picture of myself / If it did I’d take a picture of the water / And the man on the off ramp holding up a sign that’s asking me for help.” They then went straight into “Sleepwalkin’,” a highlight on the album. The rhythm change from the slow verses to

the hurried chorus was far more explosive live than on record, as the two slammed their guitars in unison to build to the hook. Lyrically, “Sleepwalkin’” is exemplary of Oberst and Bridgers’ kindred affinity for crafting abstract words to inexplicably sound great together. “You like beer and chocolate / I like setting off those bottle rockets,” Bridgers sang the masterful consonance in her verse. The two also delivered a cover of the SEE BETTER OBLIVION, PAGE 16

Campus Village

Photo by Julianna Ress

Phoebe Bridgers performing with Better Oblivion Community Center on March 10.

by Julianna Ress ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

Singer-songwriters Conor Oberst and Phoebe Bridgers stopped by San Diego’s Music Box on March 10 as their newly formed duo Better Oblivion Community Center, uniting fans across generations of indie rock. Oberst, a prolific artist of the mid-’00s famed for his emo-folk outfit Bright Eyes,

and Bridgers, a relative newcomer praised for her wit in expressing sorrow and intimacy, surprise-released the self-titled Better Oblivion record in late January — one of the first great albums of 2019. Full of visceral Los Angeles imagery, wry humor and standout one-liners, it’s a joy to hear the two at completely different career stages challenge and play off each other. This chemistry was evident in their stage performance as well. The San Diego show opened with the first track off the Better

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March 13-19, 2019 Editor: Julianna Ress • arts@thedailyaztec.com

Classic films don’t always hold up over time by Lauren J. Mapp SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Cinephiles like myself love watching classic films that have been deemed quintessential to mainstream, American culture. For hours on end, I have snacked on popcorn, Sour Patch Kids and Junior Mints as I binge watched and revisited these movies as both a child and an adult. Watching my favorite movies has become increasingly easier with the use of modern-day, movie streaming websites. It has also, however, made it much easier to point out the problematic themes present in many older films throughout cinematic history. From white actors being cast in ethnic roles to a lack of consent in the sexual relationships between characters, I have had to reevaluate the way I idolize some of these films. Here are some examples of films that haven’t aged well over time. “Sixteen Candles” The Brat Pack, classic 80s film “Sixteen Candles” was one of my favorite movies growing up. I used to watch it regularly enough to the point that my mom pretended to forget my 16th birthday so that she could throw me a surprise party as an homage to the film. Then, all of a sudden in my late 20s, I realized how problematic certain aspects of it are. Long Duk Dong is a terrible caricature of an Asian exchange student and leading character Samantha’s line of only wanting a “pink guy and a black Trans Am” — not the reverse — both scream “racism.” Even worse, the film is the poster child against consent by today’s standards. Jake Ryan — the hunky hero of the film and Samantha’s paramour — spends the evening of his party trying to call Samantha while his drunk girlfriend ruins his parents’ house. When he finally decides he’s over her, Jake pours Caroline into a car with “Farmer Ted,” a drunk 15-year-old without a license who can’t drive a stick and whom she doesn’t know. The audience is led to believe that Ted has sex with her, even though both characters were wasted and neither can remember what happened when they awaken in the parking lot the next day.

Better Oblivion: continued from page 15

Replacements’ 1987 song “Can’t Hardly Wait,” which was a fun version nearly identical to the original. It was moving to see Bridgers, a noted Bright Eyes fan whose music certainly draws influence from Oberst’s past work, express her appreciation for a song she, and most everyone in attendance, probably spent numerous years of teenage angst loving. The crowd sang along with her, but softly — like if they went above a whisper it might shatter the delicate moment. Bridgers also sang Bright Eyes deep cut “Bad Blood” solo, and Oberst repaid the favor with a garage rock version of Bridgers’s song “Funeral,” off “Stranger in the Alps.” It was genuinely sweet to see the two share these gestures, and exhibited what makes them great as a duo — not just a mutual admiration of each other’s work, but a willingness to combine their crossgenerational strengths into something new. A performance of album standout “Dylan Thomas” came in the middle of set, and considering the fun, catchy nature of the track, it was odd they didn’t decide to end the show with it.

Illustration by Michael Abshear

Many classic films contains problematic portrayals that have aged poorly since their release.

which is a derogatory ethnic and sexual slur for indigenous women.

“Peter Pan” As a child raised on Disney films, I have

watched almost every animated classic on multiple occasions over the course of my life. Racist themes and characters can be seen in many of the older movies, but this is especially true in the 1953 animated version of “Peter Pan.” The boy who refuses to grow up flies and plays around the island of Neverland, fighting swashbuckling pirates and befriending fairies and mermaids alike. When he interacts with the supposedly Native American inhabitants of the island, the racism starts to fly across the silver screen. Tiger Lily and the rest of her tribal compatriots are decked out in stereotypical leather fringe, feather headdresses and war paint. They yell “war cries,” live in teepees, smoke a “peace pipe,” are referred to as the racial slur of “redskin” before singing “What Made the Red Man Red” to the beat of drums. The final nail in the coffin of “Peter Pan,” for me, is when the female, native character refers to Wendy as a “squaw,”

Instead, the two encored with two ballads on the album, “Chesapeake” and “Dominos.” The crowd watched in near silence as they

did with “Lua,” displaying equal respect to indie rock of present and past. In a time of growing ‘90s and early-2000s nostalgia, it’s

comforting to know there’s still a legion of fans supporting the indie rock they grew up with as it evolves and adapts to new ideas.

“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” Author Truman Capote’s novella “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” led the world to fall in love with Audrey Hepburn as she portrayed main character Holly Golightly in the 1961 film adaptation. The story is fairly progressive in that it doesn’t necessarily make harsh judgment calls on Holly’s career as a sex worker — granted, what she does is only merely alluded to in the film. But the film becomes cringe-worthy every time her landlord Mr. Yunioshi appears on the screen. Donning yellowface makeup, false teeth and a kimono, white actor Mickey Rooney’s over-the-top portrayal of a Japanese immigrant just about ruins the movie for me. Aside from the prosthetic makeup used to make him “look Asian,” the character’s physical comedy includes hitting his head on a low-hanging paper lantern.

“Pretty in Pink” Not to be too harsh on Brat Pack films made by filmmaker John Hughes, but the second 80s film in this list, “Pretty in Pink,” has lost some of its magic for me in viewings of it in recent years. The movie tells the story of Andie Walsh — once again played by Molly Ringwald — who lives on the wrong side of the tracks from her love interest Blane McDonough. His rich friends and family don’t understand his interest in her and his best friend treats her like garbage. Ultimately, Andie still ends up in a romantic happy-ending scenario with Blane, even after he ghosted her right before the prom. My heart breaks for Duckie every time he dances and lip syncs to Ottis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness,” especially knowing how much he loves her and that he was supposed to end up with Andie in the original plot.

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