08-14-2019

Wednesday, Aug. 14 - Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2019 Weekly Print Edition

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Vol. 106, Issue 1 www.thedailyaztec.com

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San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

Transfers from local community colleges increase with funding

by Kaitlyn Little NEWS EDITOR

Photo by Michael Cline.

Workshop attendees provide feedback on the design and amenities for a proposed river park at the site of SDSU Mission Valley.

Campus hosts Mission Valley design workshop

by Michael Cline ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

San Diego State hosted its first public design workshop on July 27 to receive feedback on plans for a proposed river park at the site of the university’s Mission Valley expansion.

Members of the public were invited to discuss key principles and amenities to guide the design and construction of a river park and other open spaces. In addition to university leaders, representatives from Clark Construction Group, Project Design Consultants and Schmidt Design Group were in attendance to gather feedback from attendees.

SDSU Director of Planning Laura Shinn said the university plans to allocate around 80 acres throughout the site for parks and open spaces for the community to use. This includes a river park, active recreational fields and other passive park open spaces adjacent to both the river and development.

Members of the public raised the importance of sustainability — from the inclusion of native, drought-resistant landscaping to protecting water quality — in the river park design. Attendees also addressed the need to incorporate multi-use recreational facilities for flexibility, maximizing alternative modes of transportation, accessibility for both the public and those with disabilities and connectivity to existing Mission Valley parkland as key priorities for consideration.

Flood protection for the land adjacent to the river was also a focus of discussion. Shinn said the university’s design of open spaces accounts for the possibility of riverbed flooding. With the inclusion of parkland on the edge of the site near the San Diego River, the design recreates a floodplain to manage and mitigate the effects of flooding.

“There will be fields in that parkland, and those fields will occasionally flood, but the water will go away much faster than it would sitting on a parking lot,”

Shinn said.

The university announced the workshop last month when it selected Clark Construction to serve as the Mission Valley site’s contractor. Clark Construction and PDC will design and build a river park and other open spaces together. Clark Construction will also build infrastructure, road networks and utilities at the site, along with a 35,000 seat multiuse stadium.

According to Shinn, the university’s larger design plans for the site include space for education, mixed-use residential and retail development, along with four miles of hiking and biking trails throughout the campus.

Associated Students President Christian Onwuka attended the event and said the workshop was important for allowing stakeholders, from students and alumni to members of SEE MISSION VALLEY, PAGE 2

San Diego State is seeing a rise in local community college transfers as the university increases available spots for transfer students.

Interim Associate Vice President for Enrollment Sandra Temores-Valdez said SDSU has received 3,034 intents to enroll from students attending local community colleges for the upcoming semester. This is about 76% of the incoming transfer class. In fall 2018, SDSU received 2,439 intents to enroll from local transfer students.

While the intent does not specifically indicate enrollment, the students have said they are coming to SDSU and more than likely to be attending the upcoming school year, TemoresValdez said.

“As far as our admission consideration, local students get a preference given they are attending one of these local community colleges,” TemoresValdez said. “So, that’s one of the reasons why 76% of our incoming transfer students are actually local students.”

The largest amount of intents come from Grossmont College.

The top three colleges with the largest percentage of this year’s transfers are from Grossmont College, San Diego Mesa College and Southwestern College. With 24% from Grossmont, 21% from Mesa and 19% from Southwestern, Temores-Valdez said.

An increase in enrollment growth funding this year meant there were more spots open for prospective transfer students.

“One thing that is really important, which I’m really excited about is that this year we were able, because of enrollment growth funding, to bring in 600 more transfer students into the university and accommodate our

local students,” Temores-Valdez said.

International security and conflict resolution senior Emily Woo, a transfer from Mesa College, said she picked SDSU for the ISCOR major, the location and the diversity. But she said there are definite benefits to attending a community college before university.

“The biggest benefit was definitely the smaller classroom settings combined with the ability to get to know professors and kind of get the confidence that I needed in the classroom with grades and coursework and just at more of a college-level as opposed to a high school-level course load,” Woo said.

Health communication senior Finola Wade, also a transfer from Mesa College, said one of her Mesa professors was very helpful in encouraging her transfer to SDSU. “I just knew (SDSU) was a beautiful campus and I had heard great things about professors,” Wade said. “I was just like, yeah, this shift seems like the right transition for me.”

“It just felt like an easy transition.”

Enrollment Services continues to work with local community colleges by assigning admissions counselors to the various schools to support potential transfers through the application and enrollment processes, TemoresValdez said.

“We have two different admission counselors who are assigned to these local community colleges, and they work with students not only through presentations but also with their counseling staff to ensure the students understand what they need to do to apply, and then also once they get admitted to enroll to the university,” Temores-Valdez said.

SDSU to cease issuing physical parking permits to students and guests

by Daniel Guerrero STAFF WRITER

Changes to the student parking system at San Diego State will be in effect for the 2019-20 school year.

Physical parking permits will not be issued through campus parking pay stations, the “PayByPhone” app or parking passes purchased through the Aztec Parking Portal.

Parking will now be verified by running a vehicle’s license plate to show there is a valid permit registered to it, Parking and Transportation Services Director Debbie Richeson said in an email.

“When we are enforcing parking, we are able to run the license plate and see if a permit is associated to the vehicle and whether it is valid or not,” Richeson said in her response.

Richeson said the current

registration process for parking permits will remain the same.

“The parking portal has always required you put vehicle information to tie to your permit,” Richeson said in an email. “This was in part due to our plans to remove the need for a physical permit.”

The elimination of physical permits was a concern to some students who may use different vehicles to drive to campus. But

Richeson said the lack of a parking permit does not prevent students from being able to add up to two vehicles per permit, a rule that has existed in the past.

“Only two vehicles are authorized to be tied one permit,” Richeson said in an email. “We understand most of our students are commuters and may need to drive another family vehicle on occasion.”

Richeson said SDSU began

the process of fully eliminating parking stickers in 2015 when it implemented a virtual vehicle registration system. The system enables Parking and Transportation Services to verify valid permits without the need to search each vehicle’s dashboard for a physical copy.

SEE PERMITS, PAGE 2

2

News

The Daily Aztec

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 EDITOR: Kaitlyn Little • news@thedailyaztec.com

Flavors of East Africa to open express location on campus

by Aretha Matsushima STAFF WRITER

Flavors Express, a new addition to the Flavors of East Africa restaurant that serves authentic East African food, has made a permanent home for itself on the east side of campus.

The new restaurant – which has long been a popular food choice for students at San Diego State’s weekly farmers market – has taken the place of Pho Fifth Avenue Express off College Avenue. This will be the second location for the company.

David Buelna, Flavors Express restaurant manager, said Flavors of East Africa is no stranger to San Diego State. It has catered to campus organizations and actively participates in the farmers market and Aztec basketball games.

Flavors of East Africa was first opened in 2011 by Kenyan native Alvin “June” Owino.

He prepared homemade East African dishes, putting to work the knowledge he gained from cooking during his childhood.

He made the decision to open up his restaurant when he realized the lack of East African restaurants in San Diego,

according to the Flavors of East Africa website.

The SDSU location will be set up a little differently from the original location in North Park.

Buelna said while the location in North Park offers a variety of items including oxtail, lamb and various meats, Flavors Express will have a more condensed menu due to the nature of this specific restaurant.

“Flavors of East Africa is more of a sit-down dining experience versus Flavors Express which will be more of a grab-and-go,” Buelna said. “We want to really highlight the express aspect of the restaurant.”

Buelna also said students who are familiar with the Flavors of East Africa menu at the farmers market should expect to see the same one served at the Flavors Express location. This menu is also featured at other farmers markets in Ocean Beach and Hillcrest.

“More or less, it’s the same business and is going to include the same menu as the farmers market,” Buelna said.

He said he expects Flavors Express to bring more diversity to the food choices on campus, since options for East African cuisine are very limited. The food is also unprocessed, home

Photo by Michael Cline

Flavors of East Africa is located on College Ave.

cooked and made fresh.

“We’re bringing East African food and everything is homecooked, spice-filled with plenty of vegan options,” Buelna said.

The restaurant menu features various salads, grilled meat

or fish, stews and vegetarian options as well, according to the Flavors of East Africa website.

Buelna said while the restaurant is independent and will not be accepting meal plan, students can still enjoy its food

with its convenient proximity to campus. Flavors of East Africa will also continue to participate at the weekly farmers market.

Flavors Express is expected to open Aug. 16.

Permits:

printed,” Richeson said.

Fifth-year psychology major Brandon Lim said he supports the changes to eliminate physical permits in an effort to be environmentally friendly. “(SDSU) is eliminating paper and plastic waste, and I support that,” Lim said.

Lim also said the change to the parking permit system isn’t much different from the past.

“I don’t think it’s necessarily different from the previous system,” Lim said. “They’re achieving the same goal.”

Richeson said more information on the new changes to the parking permit system will be coming in an email, however, the parking page on SDSU’s website currently features a brief description of the change.

continued from page 1 Richeson said sustainability is a benefit to the elimination of physical permits.

“We are being more environmentally friendly by not making permits and not requiring paper permits being

A rendering of the SDSU River Park Hike and Bike trail.

Mission Valley:

continued from page 1 the community, to share their thoughts on the development.

Onwuka said his focus is to promote the river park as an opportunity for academic research and to ensure recreation is maximized for SDSU students.

“I came to make sure our students are taken care of,”

Onwuka said. “Our emphasis in student government is to advocate on behalf of students for a project as monumental as SDSU Mission Valley.”

Bob Thomas, another workshop attendee, said university plans should keep homeless residents in mind, many of whom currently reside in Mission Valley.

“We’re behind the university and support the addition, but we just want to make sure they consider the homeless people who live there,” Thomas said.

File photo.

Cars in a parking garage at San Diego State.

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 EDITOR: Kaitlyn Little • news@thedailyaztec.com

News

The Daily Aztec

3

Cancer fund supports students in need

by Kaitlyn Little NEWS EDITOR

On Sept. 1, 2017, Tammy Blackburn was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. She went into remission less than a year later, but this would be cut short in March 2019 when she was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer — it had spread to her spine.

She has a long history with San Diego State, as a double alumna and the current director of Development Technology for SDSU Alumni, and her experience has inspired her to give back to the university.

With this came the Wallace, Shatsky, Blackburn, Courage Through Cancer Fund for students at SDSU whose education may be affected by a cancer diagnosis. She said the mission of the fund is to give these students financial support, a passion inspired by her days spent in the cancer center.

“I saw people who didn’t have family members with them and I saw people who had to take public transportation to get there (and) people who just struggled to even pay for their medicine,” Blackburn said.

Blackburn announced the fund in August 2018, named after the two UC San Diego Health doctors who inspired it,

Courtesy of SDSU NewsCenter

SDSU Director of Development Technology Tammy Blackburn (left) and Cameron McCullough, the first student recipient of the Courage Through Cancer fund.

Dr. Anne M. Wallace and Dr. Rebecca A. Shatsky, according to the SDSU crowdfunding webpage.

Just a few weeks after the campaign’s launch, the fund was able to give an award to its first student. The fund has since helped seven students and continues to grow.

Despite her current diagnosis, Blackburn has stayed dedicated to the cause.

“I’m scared and it’s hard and I’m in pain, but I will not stop focusing on bringing awareness to anybody who wants to

understand that there are people, students at San Diego State, who have to live the way that I’m living and they just need a little help,” Blackburn said.

Depending on a student’s situation, the fund can help cover a student’s tuition, meal plan and housing. Anybody can apply to be considered who has experienced a personal diagnosis or one within their immediate family. The Economic Crisis Response Team website has a link that students fill out about their

specific needs and, once completed, someone from the team connects them to specific resources.

“I don’t want that student to experience personal pain and anguish because of cancer,” Blackburn said. “I want to keep students on track to graduate.

It’s very important that we allow them to finish what they began.”

Blackburn said she wants to specifically do two things with the fund: continue to grow the endowment and continue to award students throughout the school year.

The endowment allows for the fund to continue servicing students long into the future.

The goal is for students who are affected to be able to graduate, and Blackburn said three recipients of the fund were able to graduate last May. “That’s the ultimate goal and I got to be at the graduation and see them and that was a really a very personal experience for me,” Blackburn said. “It is the reason why the fund is there.”

Chemistry senior Diego Perez is one of the recipients of this fund.

When his brother was diagnosed with leukemia, he said he was able to talk to the financial aid office where the employees connected him with Blackburn.

“I mentioned that my brother was sick, so it was kind of getting harder for my dad to help toss some money over every now and then,” Perez said.

He said he could not overlook Blackburn’s perseverance and commitment to this cause.

“Tammy is one of the nicest, most genuine people I’ve ever met and that’s the kind of people I want to surround myself with in my life,” Perez said. “For her to be able to go through what she’s going through and has gone through and still think about other people is just really incredible to me.”

Anyone can help to donate to this fund, and Blackburn said she would like to see more students supporting the cause.

On Sept. 25, there will be a fundraiser held at the SDSU bookstore.

“You don’t have to be an alum to donate,” Blackburn said. “You don’t have to have a lot of money. You can have $5 dollars or $10 dollars and participate. Last year, our students participated in it in an event that was a fundraiser for this fund and raised about $7,000 dollars in just a couple hours.”

To donate to the Courage Through Cancer Student Success Fund, visit the crowdfunding website.

State audit finds fewer available spaces and higher parking rates

by Michael Cline ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

San Diego State students are facing higher parking permit fees despite a decrease in parking availability over the past decade, according to a state audit of the university’s parking program.

The audit, conducted between fiscal years 2008-09 and 201718, reported a rise in parking permit fees from $135 a semester to $168, even as the number of available student parking spaces decreased by 850, or almost 6%. With the cost of a day permit now $174 per semester, the increase in student parking fees over the last 11 years totals nearly 29%.

Meanwhile, the audit found SDSU held over $28 million in surplus parking fees and fines at the end of the last fiscal year.

The audit concluded SDSU students “tended to have less parking available than faculty and staff,” with some parking lots at complete capacity during peak hours. Data provided by the audit found SDSU sold over 48,000 student permits during the 2017-18 school year, despite only having 14,197 available spaces.

Even with the reduction in total student parking spaces on campus, the audit clarified SDSU’s transportation management plan found the university had not reached

practical capacity for campus parking.

Additionally, the audit examined SDSU’s construction of a new parking structure at South Campus Plaza, used primarily by customers of the building’s restaurants and businesses. Even though the additional parking structure did not increase the overall availability of student parking, SDSU used “students’ permit fees to pay for the facility’s construction,” the audit said.

In an online statement, the university said the South Campus Plaza parking structure was intended for customers and campus visitors who support the building’s tenants between semesters and pay hourly parking fees.

Additionally, the university said South Campus Plaza was sustainably designed to accommodate pedestrians, public transit and bikes to meet SDSU’s commitment to providing alternative modes of transportation.

“The university is encouraging and, in some areas, seeing a reduced reliance on vehicles on and around campus,” the SDSU statement said.

Beginning in the fall, SDSU freshmen living in student housing will not be permitted to park on campus, a move the university said will decrease emissions and increase parking spaces available for commuters.

Three other CSU campuses

— Fullerton, Channel Islands and Sacramento State — were also randomly selected for the state audit of campus parking programs. The three other CSU campuses also maintained a surplus in parking fees and fines while also increasing the availability of student parking spaces.

The audit said SDSU’s total surplus was the highest among CSU campuses, at over $456 million at the end of the last fiscal year.

Bank accounts held by the CSU system outside the state

treasury were also subject to review. The audit indicated the CSU “failed to fully disclose” $1.5 billion in reserves — made up largely of unspent tuition fees — to students and elected officials as it nearly doubled annual tuition rates for students over the past decade. The CSU had set aside $400 million of that surplus for economic uncertainty, according to the audit.

A statement from CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White said the report had mischaracterized the reserve

funds as discretionary, saying tuition increases and state funding were necessary because the surplus could not have been used to fund ongoing system expenses.

White also said the report mischaracterized the system’s surplus as undisclosed. “The report’s incorrect claim that the CSU failed to fully inform its stakeholders about fund balances overlooks dozens of presentations of publicly available reports that included information about these funds,” the statement said.

File photo.

A vehicle drives through parking structure 12.

4

Opinion

The Daily Aztec

Aug. 14-20, 2019 EDITOR: Catherine Van Weele • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

Why I decided to attend SDSU

by Hannah Goldstone STAFF WRITER

Congratulations, you’ve made it into San Diego State. Whether SDSU was your dream school, your backup school or just happened to be the closest school to your home, the university wants you here.

Everyone had different reasons for wanting to attend SDSU. Maybe it was a special major program, a specific professor, a sports team, the weather or because one’s parents attended. I picked SDSU because I got admitted into the Weber Honors College, and was going to be a psychology major. SDSU was known for having a popular and well known psychology department.

I also wanted a school with

big sporting games and school spirit, and wanted a school with big Greek influence.

It’s now Fall 2019.

I’m beginning my last year at SDSU. None of those original intentions matter anymore.

I left the Weber Honors College after my freshman year, I switched majors about five times and eventually stuck with sociology. I haven’t been to a single sporting event in the entirety of my time here, but I have truly seen SDSU spirit throughout the years. I joined a sorority for two years, but eventually decided that it wasn’t for me and instead focused on my extracurriculars and many part-time jobs.

Nowadays, I spend a lot of time with the Peer Health Education program, which I had never given thought to before

attending SDSU. I decided to minor in political science, a subject I loathed before coming to SDSU, because I admire the faculty and their stories.

I wrote down these thoughts to showcase how much my mindset has changed. I hope during your time at SDSU you change your mind about things, maybe even the same thing, several times.

Don’t be afraid to change your major three times. Try taking classes that you didn’t think you would be interested in. Join groups and then leave them.

Don’t be afraid of changing your values or priorities.

This idea of “finding yourself” and “college experimentation” can be cheesy and cliché. Some people claim to know exactly which path they want to take from the beginning. These

people enter college as a biology major and stick with it through becoming a doctor. I believe that this mindset can only get you so far.

I think it’s wonderful that one can feel passionate and motivated about a certain choice.

But, hopefully one day when you pass by tabling for a dance team or cooking class, you decide to give it a try even if it isn’t in your predestined life plan.

I hope you’re not afraid to change your mind about what you hope to get out of your time at SDSU. This university taught me, whether indirectly or not, that I can switch paths completely and everything will work out in the end .

Hannah Goldstone is a senior studying sociology.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Bella Ross MANAGING EDITOR Dana Tsuri-Etzioni NEWS EDITOR Kaitlyn Little ASST. NEWS EDITOR Michael Cline OPINION EDITOR Catherine Van Weele MUNDO AZTECA EDITOR Alejandra Luna ASST. MUNDO AZTECA EDITOR Diane Lopez ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Ceighlee Fennel SPORTS EDITOR Aaron Tolentino ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Kyle Betz ENGAGEMENT EDITOR Brenden Tuccinardi PHOTO EDITOR Alexa Oslowski MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Amal Younis

Diversity is an essential part of today’s college experience

by Tom Tran CONTRIBUTOR

College is a time for exploration.

During this period, many college students are beginning their journey in self-awareness.

Students are exploring career choices, majors, clubs and organizations, sexuality and cultural identity. These forms of exploration allow students to get a better understanding of themselves and the world around them. Being in a diverse environment is essential to this process.

Our world is diverse. It is a melting pot of people from many different walks of life.

Possessing differentiating points of view provides us with a better understanding of where our beliefs come from and helps us to identify what we actually believe in. Being open to the idea of cultural diversity provides the opportunity to broaden a person’s perspective. Learning about other people’s insights and opinions, cultural customs and lifestyle choices will give you a deeper grasp into your own.

Every person has their own set of challenges to overcome during their journey. Some people are predisposed to be less equipped with resources or cultural capital due to circumstances beyond their control.

For instance, a student raised in an English-speaking household may potentially gain a stronger grasp of the language compared to a student with English as their secondary language. Although it may be more advantageous to have a better grasp of the language in your native country, it is also advantageous to have a second language at your disposal.

Speaking multiple languages allows you to connect with more people and provide different outlooks on the world.

ASST. MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Jack Molmud GRAPHIC DESIGNER Emily Burgess

SENIOR STAFF WRITERS Kelly Kerrigan STAFF WRITERS Cristian Alvarez Hannah Goldstone Daniel Guerrero Aretha Matsushima CONTRIBUTORS Ellyse Logan Tom Tran ________________________________ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Evan Baumbach SALES MANAGER Bryan Diamond ________________________________ GENERAL MANAGER/ADVISER Jay Harn GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST Luis Valenzuela ________________________________ EDITORIAL 619.594.4190 editor@thedailyaztec.com

Graphic by Em Burgess

Both native-English speakers and bilingual speakers have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. By being mindful of your own strengths, you gain perspective into what makes you unique. Having cultural capital, especially regarding traditions and language, passed down from

we are all different, but the same.

Understanding differing backgrounds enables us to be more aware of the privileges we are awarded and of our shortcomings. Having greater self-awareness leads to stronger decision making – especially when deciding which career

“Our world is progressively moving towards globalization and having a diverse student population on your campus will prepeare you for the workplace of today.” their parents gives students a slight edge.

College is a time when you are able to cultivate your communication skills.

An opportunity to interact with people of various cultures and nationalities and learn about their ways of life. During these interactions you will discuss one another’s cultures. You may learn about their traditions, delicious multicultural foods and notice parallels between cultures. With this comes the realization that

path to pursue. Career choices are best made when one’s strengths and weaknesses have been recognized completely.

You will likely want a job that highlights your skill sets – a position where your strengths outshine your weaknesses. The most rewarding work is found when you understand yourself as a whole and that you are not perfect. Knowing what you bring to the table will liken your chances of fulfillment in your career.

Our world is progressively moving towards globalization and having a diverse student population on your college campus will prepare you for the diversity of the workplace of today. In today’s workforce, your employer, customers and co-workers will likely be from different backgrounds. The more exposure you have to other cultures, the more you will learn through social interactions.

Collaborative efforts lead to a future of more connectedness and an enriching experience for all.

If we never bother to expand our efforts for a more inclusive workplace, our society can not continue to make considerable strides forward. A new era is upon us and cultural inclusivity is the catalyst to not only improving the culture of workplaces, but within our own neighborhoods and communities.

Tom Tran is a senior studying interdisciplinary studies. Follow him on Twitter @tomtrvn.

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Aug. 14 - 20 , 2019 EDITOR: Catherine Van Weele • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

Opinion

The Daily Aztec

5

SDSU mandatory housing is overpriced

by Catherine OPINION EDITOR

Van Weele

Dorm-life is a staple of the college experience. It is supposed to be a fun and exciting time when you can make new friends and learn how to be independent.

Perhaps dorm living was once more beneficial, but now campus living has become an exploitative scheme for colleges to make a profit.

Colleges have a responsibility to provide housing options for their students, however, they should not instate policies that require students to live on campus.

San Diego State’s new Sophomore QUEST program forces non-local freshmen and sophomores to live in campus housing. SDSU claims students who live on campus have better academic standings, higher retention and graduation rates due to the increased accessibility of campus resources. While there may be some benefits, a program like Sophomore QUEST completely overlooks the financial burden placed on students.

According to the College Board, the cost of housing at public

universities is nearly double the cost since the 1980s. This school year, a nine-month lease for campus housing at SDSU costs between $15,045 and $19,405 for freshmen and between $8,149 and $14,621 for sophomores depending on the meal plan, dorm building and number of roommates.

Although campus living is cheaper than the average rent of nearly $2,000 per month in San Diego, there are still affordable options for college students living off-campus. Many off-campus housing options around SDSU offer rent for under $1,000 per month.

Seeing how expensive campus living would be for my sophomore year, I searched for cheaper alternatives and found an apartment off Montezuma Road where the monthly rent would be just under $700. I would have had a full closet to myself, a bathroom shared with only one other person and a furnished kitchen to cook in.

Unfortunately, even if you were able to secure a place to live off-campus, SDSU makes it difficult to get out of the license agreement.

There is strict and specific criteria one must meet in order to qualify as exempt. Unless you are leaving SDSU, the easiest ways to get out of the contract would be showing proof of medical or financial hardships. Ridiculously, already having student loans or having to resort to taking out a loan does not qualify as a financial hardship.

This is subjective criteria and there are many other contributing factors as to why someone would opt out of campus housing.

Even if one is able to get out of the contract, the SDSU housing website lists the cancellation fees which can cost thousands of dollars. The fee is based on the housing option they selected and how many days there are remaining in their contract.

As advertised, dorm rooms are smaller living spaces. However, SDSU uses many rooms meant for a double to house three students.

My freshman dorm was a triple, but the previous year it had been a double along with many of the other dorm rooms on my floor, according to former residents of the dorm building.

While it is a doable living situation , it does create a cramped

environment with minimal amounts of privacy. This brings up the issue of the cost varying more by the number of people in a room instead of the building and amenities in it.

In my freshman dorm, the newly renovated Zura building, triple rooms on the ends of the ball were significantly larger than the triples in the middle, but all triples pay the same rate regardless of room size. Even so, students in Zura were still better off than students paying the same rates to live in dorms that had not yet been renovated.

For sophomore housing, units with kitchenettes — including a microwave, cabinets and fridge — cost over a thousand dollars more than a housing unit with full-size kitchens that has stovetops and ovens. The fact that SDSU offers housing options without functional kitchens to sophomores is bewildering. If sophomores are required to live on campus, a kitchen should be provided.

SDSU expects students to behave like adults and assert their independence. Yet, they don’t even adequately provide opportunities for students to take

on responsibilities like grocery shopping and cooking. There are other rules enforced in the dorms that would not be in off-campus housing. Students are limited to checking in only two guests at a time and RA’s patrol around the dorms every few hours.

To switch rooms, it costs $100.

The small spaces students live in can easily foster conflict among roommates freshman year when they are often selected randomly by the university. Fees like this seem unfairly excessive given the circumstances.

Of course, housing payments and fees go toward providing utilities, bathroom supplies, staff and other amenities. However, it is simply not worth the thousands of dollars it costs each year.

Campus living provides students with resources that enrich their college experience, but it should not be mandated by the school.

Each student should have the right to decide how to make the most out of their time at college and choose where they want to live.

Catherine Van Weele is a sophomore studying politcal science.

Follow her on Twitter @catiemei.

How to be successful as a freshman

by Ellyse Logan CONTRIBUTOR

Another school year begins as the summer heat continues to burn us out. Oddly enough, I am excited for school to start and to see friends I made last year.

I know most freshmen may not be feeling as confident or excited for this year, and I can relate to that. I remember feeling a nervous excitement. I really had no idea what to expect walking on to campus.

I can’t say exactly what to expect, but I can give some tips about what’s needed to survive the first week of freshman year.

Don’t worry, after the first week everything gets easier and you start to get used to being a student at San Diego State.

The first thing needed are headphones. Walking to class with headphones in can be a mood ooster and get you ready for the day ahead. Listening to your favorite music or podcast can make you feel more comfortable in your new surroundings and helps you feel peaceful when you are surrounded by thousands of other people.

The next item you need will not be something you can pick up at Target, but it’s more valuable. It is an academic advisor of some sort. There are academic advisors everywhere on the campus, you just have to know where to find them.

You can find walk-in hours for general advising on the SDSU website. The Academic Advising Center usually has a lot of advisors at the beginning of the semester, but it is usually very

busy so I would go to a niche advisor who is more accessible.

Some better options are major advisors, the academic mentor on your floor or, for those of you in EOP, the EOP advisors.

The questions you have as a freshman are more general and most people can answer them, so it is easier to be guided in the right direction. As you go on with your schooling, you will go to certain advisors who are usually recommended to you by the other advisors for specific needs you may have.

Do not be afraid to ask for help. That’s why the school is equipped with so many advisors and people to help you. It does not have to be a difficult process if you just ask for help.

Professors can also be a big help. They won’t help you sort out your schedule or financial aid, but talking to your professors about your classes and getting the specifics on what the class will be about will help with midterms and finals.

The next thing you will need is confidence. That may seem cheesy, but nothing will actually prepare you for this change so you just have to jump into it.

If you have confidence, people will be attracted to you and you will make friends easily. If you are an introverted person, you may feel a bit more intimidated, but don’t worry because everyone is looking to find their way too.

Say “yes” to a lot of things the first week and you will find the people you want to be around the more people you meet .

The last thing you will need to survive your first week of college is some sort of relief on that

Sunday night. Everyone will still be super friendly and trying to make friends, but reward yourself for getting through the week.

Call one of your parents or a friend, go out into nature or even do some skincare. Anything that makes you feel better. This could even be mindlessly watching

Netflix all day. Relieve yourself from all the social interaction you did during the week.

Before my first year I was anxious about college, but I used everything I stated above and it was better than anything I expected.

You might have to eat lunch

alone in the Garden or call your mom to make it seem like you’re busy but you will get through it.

Good luck, you can do it.

Ellyse Logan is sophomore studying international business.

Follow her on Twitter @EllyseLogan.

Graphic by Em Burgess

6

Sports

The Daily Aztec

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 EDITOR: Aaron Tolentino • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Men’s soccer poised for big 2019 season

by Cristian STAFF WRITER

Alvarez

San Diego State men’s soccer is weeks away from opening its 2019 campaign.

After finishing last season with an overall record of 7-101, the Aztecs aim to improve and push for a spot in the NCAA tournament later this year – a feat that hasn’t happened since 2016.

Lev Kirshner, who enters his 20th season as head coach, said he’s confident his side has what it takes to play amongst the best teams in the country.

“There’s very few seasons that we’re not capable of playing in the NCAA tournament,” Kirshner said.

The Aztecs added 10 new players in the offseason which ranked as the tenth-best recruiting class in the nation, according to Top Drawer Soccer.

Sophomore midfielder Tristian Weber is the latest player to join the Scarlet and Black, who transfers after playing one season at the University of Portland.

“Tristian is a wonderful young man who has a lot of talent,” Kirshner said. “We’re looking forward to getting him into the group and seeing how he acclimates to our way of

playing.”

Players were eager to start training with `the entire staff. However, NCAA rules prevented players from getting in contact with coaches until Aug. 13.

Instead, many of them spent the summer participating in summer leagues.

San Diego native and redshirt senior midfielder Pablo Pelaez stayed active this offseason training with local National Premier Soccer League side Albion SC. Pelaez said his teammates followed similar regimes until a month prior to the opening kickoff in which most players reported back and participated in ‘captain’s practices.’

“We’re so excited to get going,” Pelaez said. “We’re only looking forward to get with coach Lev and get more intense.”

As team captain for the Aztecs, Pelaez said he is certain they can accomplish great things.

“There’s so much talent on this roster compared to the other years,” Pelaez said. “The sky’s the limit.”

Redshirt sophomore midfielder Laukoa Santos sacrificed part of his offseason away from his hometown in Hawaii to improve his game and contribute to the team.

“We knew that this year was

File photo

Then-junior midfeidler Emil Kjellker celebrates after scoring the game-winning goal in overtime of the Aztecs’ 2-1 victory over UC Irvine on Sept.

9, 2018 at the SDSU Sports Deck.

going to be a big year for us,” Santos said. “It’s going to be special.”

The Aztecs are set to make waves in the Pac-12 Conference, and Santos hopes their results will rally the San Diego community.

“I truly want to see a culture change,” Santos said. “I want people on campus to be excited about watching SDSU men’s soccer. I want the nation to know that SDSU is a contender.”

Kirshner’s side plays UC Irvine on Aug. 19 and UC San Diego on Aug. 24 in exhibition matches prior to having their new campaign go underway.

The Aztecs’ season officially starts on Aug. 30 in their “light the night” home opener against USD at the SDSU Sports Deck at 7 p.m.

The local derby marks the seven-year anniversary of when the SDSU Sports Deck was given field lights back in 2012.

“It’s our goal to ‘stack the deck’ as we say and break the attendance record,” Kishner said. “The ultimate ambition would be to sell it out.”

The fixture will feature a bounce house, photo booth and performances from the SDSU cheer, dance and drumline teams.

Cristian Alvarez is a senior studying journalism. Follow him on Twitter @AlvarezTheViper.

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Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 EDITOR: Aaron Tolentino • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Sports

The Daily Aztec

7

Bonnie Draxler cements legacy on the Mesa SDSU’s all-time pole vault record holder transitions from collegiate to professional ranks.

by Kyle Betz ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

“Determined.”

That’s how San Diego State track and field assistant and pole vault coach Richard Fox described former Aztec track athlete Bonnie Draxler. “(She has) the self-discipline to follow through and work on the small aspects of her craft, just being a true student of the sport,” Fox said.

Draxler established herself as one of the top pole vaulters in SDSU’s history after capturing a silver medal in the NCAA Outdoor Championships in June following a 14.8-foot pole vault performance, tying her own school record.

In March, Draxler cleared 14.96 feet in the 2019 NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships – breaking her own school record and setting a new Mountain West Conference record.

Draxler said that was her most memorable moment as an Aztec.

“It was so crazy; I don’t even know how many bars that I jumped because the competition just felt so long,” Draxler said. “It was so much fun and so exciting.”

The Wisconsin native also conquered a 14.8-foot jump later that month in outdoor competition during the Jim Bush Legends Invitational, surpassing her previous SDSU record.

Fox said her accomplishments during her time as an Aztec have been unmatched.

“She was the most successful San Diego State pole vaulter to date we’ve had as far as indoor and outdoor placement, scoring points in conference and winning four indoor championships,” Fox said.

“Nobody else has done that.”

Draxler’s list of accolades seems never-ending.

Throughout her career, she was named Mountain West Indoor Field Athlete of the Week four times in addition

to winning Mountain West Outdoor Field Athlete of the Week three times.

Draxler set SDSU class pole vault records as a freshman, sophomore and senior during the indoor season and as a freshman, junior and senior in outdoor competition.

As a senior, Draxler was named a first-team AllAmerican following both indoor and outdoor seasons by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

The Association also honored Draxler as 2019 West Region Field Athlete of the Year.

Oh, and Draxler runs, too.

She placed third in the 4x100meter relay (45.25 seconds) in the Mountain West Outdoor Track and Field Championships and was named to the AllMountain West Outdoor Track and Field 4x100-meter relay team this past season.

Fox said Draxler’s athletic abilities allow her to take on various events.

“She clearly has the tools to be an elite athlete because of the innate speed and athleticism to do multiple events,” Fox said.

“She took that to the next level.”

Draxler competed in her first post-collegiate competition in the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships on July 25 through 28 at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.

After entering the competition ranked 12th, Draxler cleared a 14.44-foot jump, placing ninth.

SDSU 2015 graduates Kristen Brown and Kortney Ross also competed against Draxler in the pole vault. Brown tied for sixth and Ross was listed as “no height.”

Draxler said participating in the championships with her two former college teammates feels like déjà vu.

“It’s great for our program,” Draxler said. “Just to be there with them, it almost feels like old times again, my freshman year competing with them.”

Draxler hopes to be one of three Americans – and possibly Aztecs – to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics.

In terms of preparation, Draxler is in the process of adjusting from a student-athlete to a professional.

“For me, going forward in my training is more personalized to exactly what I need,” Draxler said. “Just being motivated on my own to go out and get my workouts done because you don’t have a coach telling you what time you have to be at practice and all that kind of stuff like you do in college.”

Fox said Draxler’s story can be an example to her successors.

“She has shown future Aztecs that this is all possible to do and accomplish here,” Fox said.

“Our returning veterans and our incoming pole vaulters have this confidence to know, ‘Hey, I can be successful here at State, and I can do it because she’s done it, and she’s paved the way.’”

Kyle Betz is a junior studying journalism. Follow him on Twitter @KyleBBetz.

Photos courtesy of SDSU Athletics

Bonnie Draxler, a former SDSU pole vaullter, prepares to jump in a competition.

8

Sports

The Daily Aztec

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 EDITOR: Aaron Tolentino • sports@thedailyaztec.com

Jalen McDaniels takes talents to NBA

by Kyle Betz ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Nearly 10 years ago, former San Diego State men’s basketball forward Kawhi Leonard established himself as one of the best athletes to ever don the Scarlet and Black.

In June, Jalen McDaniels became the first SDSU forward since Leonard to be selected in the NBA Draft.

McDaniels was taken 52nd overall by the Charlotte Hornets after a two-year stint on the Mesa.

The four-star recruit quickly became one of the Aztecs’ rising stars in 2017-18 after redshirting as a freshman one year prior.

In his first career start against Wyoming on Dec. 27, 2017, McDaniels turned heads by posting six points and 10 rebounds.

McDaniels finished the season as a starter and Mountain West Conference champion, averaging 10.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per contest.

Following his breakout season, McDaniels declared for the NBA Draft. However, McDaniels did not hire an agent, leaving him eligible to

return to college basketball.

The Federal Way, Wash. native went undrafted and did not sign with a team as a free agent, prompting his return to the Mesa.

As a sophomore, McDaniels was the second-leading scorer on the team, averaging 15.9 points while gathering 8.3 rebounds per game.

McDaniels led the Aztecs to a 21-13 record and the Mountain West Tournament championship game before declaring for the NBA Draft a second time.

Despite signing with an agent after his sophomore year, an NCAA rule passed in August 2017 allowed prospective draft candidates to return to collegiate play if they were not selected.

McDaniels, however, was committed to playing at the professional level.

Following his selection by the Hornets, McDaniels played professionally for the first time last month during the NBA Summer League.

The second-round pick played in five games, collecting 3.6 points, 1.4 rebounds and 0.8 assists on 39% shooting from the field.

Although McDaniels made

his way to a new roster, he is no stranger to two of his new Hornets teammates.

The Hornets selected former Nevada guard Cody Martin ahead of McDaniels with the 36th overall pick in the draft.

Martin averaged 8.6 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists in five Summer League games.

Cody’s twin brother, Caleb, who also started for the Wolf Pack in the past two seasons, recently signed a contract with the Hornets as a free agent.

During his time at SDSU, McDaniels played a role in defeating then-No. 6 Nevada and the Martins on Feb. 20 – scoring 10 points and securing six rebounds.

In the Mountain West Tournament on March 15, McDaniels led the Aztecs to another upset over the No. 1 seeded Wolf Pack by a final score of 65-56. McDaniels put up 12 points, 10 rebounds and two assists.

Now, McDaniels and the Martin brothers will compete for a roster spot on a team owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan.

Kyle Betz is a junior studying journalism. Follow him on Twitter @KyleBBetz.

Photo courtesy of Charlotte Hornets

Jalen McDaniels prepares to attempt a free throw for the Charlotte Hornets during an NBA Summer League game in July.

Fall Camp update: Offensive line battling for starting spots

by Aaron Tolentino SPORTS EDITOR

The depth chart released before San Diego State football’s first fall practice listed the starters for the offensive line: junior Kyle Spalding at left tackle, senior Daishawn Dixon at left guard, junior Keith Ismael at center, freshman William Dunkle at right guard and junior Jacob Capra at right tackle.

However, this list is highly tentative and can change drastically in a matter of four weeks leading up to the Aztecs’ first game against Weber State on Aug. 31.

“We got maybe 10 or 12 guys fighting it out to be the starters,” SDSU head coach Rocky Long said on Saturday after the team’s first fall camp scrimmage. “It’s way too early to determine who’s going to be the starters.”

Aside from senior Ryan Agnew at quarterback and senior Juwan Washington at running back, no one has been anointed as a starter in any position.

Even an offensive lineman like Ismael, who was a first team all-Mountain West selection in 2018, has not secured his starting spot.

“It’s going to be a competitive August,” Ismael said. “Everybody is going to be fighting for a job.

Nobody’s spot is secure, no matter who you are. It’s going to be a grind. Every single day we got to come ready to work.”

Left tackle With the dismissal of Tyler Roemer (now an Oakland Raider) at the end of last

may potentially keep him from starting.

Despite being a fifth-year senior, Jimenez has not recorded the amount of playing time most at his age would have. In three seasons at BYU, the 6-foot-5, 300-pound lineman has only played in 15 career games – none of which he has started in. Jimenez was not on campus for spring ball, so he falls a bit behind in learning the playbook and a new offense.

Ultimately, Gudino and Dunkle seems to be the top two candidates to start at right guard. Gudino seems to have too much experience starting as a true freshman and sophomore to be regulated to second string.

Dunkle’s size shows the potential he has to make an impact.

San Diego State offensive linemen work on a drill during a fall camp practice on Aug. 7 at SDSU Practice Field.

season, Spalding was given the opportunity to start the last three games at right tackle. That gives him experience and momentum to start over junior Zach Thomas at left tackle. Thomas is coming off an ACL tear last September.

Long said the injury has caused Thomas to lose some size and weight.

For Thomas to win that starting spot, he will have to prove he has regained size and strength in these next couple of weeks. But for now, Spalding is the likely starter.

Left guard At left guard, Dixon seems to be the closest thing to a lock.

Photo by Kareem Jones

The 6-foot-5 senior started all but one game at left guard.

It’s hard to see someone like sophomore Desmond Bessent beat out Dixon who has started 25 games at left guard, dating back to 2017.

while Gudino started five times in 2018.

Ismael said he feels better playing center than right guard, so expect him to start there while Gudino joins the wide open competition at right guard.

Center Center is where things get interesting. The top two centers on the depth chart are Ismael and Gudino who both return plenty of experience starting in SDSU’s offensive line in the last two seasons. Gudino was the starting center in last year’s opener against Stanford while Ismael was at right guard.

Ismael started at center six times

Right guard The competition at right guard will also include Dunkle and senior grad transfer from BYU Jacob Jimenez.

A lot of talk has been about the 6-foot-5, 350-pound Dunkle possibly starting at right guard. Despite having the size to make an impact, Dunkle has yet to set foot in a collegiate game, so his lack of experience

Right tackle At right tackle, Capra is in the lead to start. The 6-foot5, 315-pound transfer from Oregon arrives on the Mesa after graduating in three years and plans to use his final two years of eligibility at SDSU. He brings Pac-12 experience and 15 games play with one start.

Capra participated in spring ball which gave him extra time to get comfortable with the Aztec playbook. Freshman Justin Yi is listed second on the depth chart.

Yi initially joined the Aztecs as a tight end but switched to offensive line this past spring.

He is unlikely to beat out Capra and the experience he brings to the table.

Aaron Tolentino is a senior studying journalism. Follow him on Twitter @atolent2.

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 Editor: Alejandra Luna • mundoazteca@thedailyaztec.com

Mundo Azteca

The Daily Aztec

9

Mi vida yucateca durante intercambio por Alejandra luna EDITORA

Un ‘xix’, la palabra más utilizada por los yucatecos.

Es demasiado fascinante ver cómo cada estado de la república mexicana tiene sus propias palabras. En mi vida había escuchado tantas palabras mayas, y eso ocurrió durante mi estancia de intercambio en Mérida, Yucatán.

La mayoría de las palabras son tan difíciles de pronunciar que en algunas ocasiones tuve que investigar su significado, su pronunciación y cómo se escribían.

La aventura yucateca ha terminado, pero llena de experiencias y aprendizaje.

Desde que me dijeron que mi carrera requería de un intercambio, no la pensé ni dos veces y me inscribí.

Según yo me sentía muy fuerte, pensé, “solamente será un mes no creo que me voy a extrañar a mi familia”.

Error, nunca imaginé que si los iba a extrañar tanto.

Días antes de abordar el avión, lloraba por las noches sin que se dieran cuenta y los insomnios se volvieron más intensos y los nervios se apoderaron de mi.

Yo seguía aparentando mi gran emoción y mi valentía ante mi familia y amigos.

Me pregunté varias veces que estaba pensando cuando me registré al programa. Duré semanas buscando la respuesta y por más que trataba de encontrarla no podía.

Sin embargo, fue hasta hoy que comprendí porque quise irme lejos de mi familia por un mes.

Foto por Alejandra Luna

Zona arqueológica maya de Edzná en la ciudad de Campeche.

Quise ponerme a prueba para saber que se sentía salir de mi zona de confort y la burbuja que me rodeaba.

Nunca había sobrepasado esa línea por miedo a lo desconocido y porque me sentía cómoda estar ahí.

Hoy veo las cosas diferente, ya no tengo tanto miedo a comenzar algo nuevo. Ya no le temo tanto a tomar decisiones sin titubear y desconfiar de mi misma.

Ojalá esto me dure para siempre y no regresen las inseguridades que a veces no me dejan avanzar.

Este mes lejos de casa me ha

servido para valorar el tiempo en familia, para disfrutar cada momento con mis seres queridos, lo que tengo, lo que soy y de donde vengo.

Conocí más a fondo mis capacidades, a valorar mi tiempo a solas, pude pensar hacia dónde quiero ir y qué quiero lograr para mi futuro.

Estoy lista para comenzar los nuevos retos de este semestre y lo que resta del año.

Además, de estudiar en una la Universidad Marista de Mérida, experimenté comidas, lugares, el idioma maya y comparé la cultura estadounidense con la mexicana.

Me di cuenta que los universitarios en México siguen viviendo con sus padres hasta que terminen su carrera universitaria y lleguen al matrimonio.

En cambio, aquí los estudiantes que deciden ir a la universidad tienen que moverse de casa porque muchas veces la universidad está en otro estado o horas lejos de casa.

Me siento afortunada de seguir viviendo con mis papás porque sigo muy apegada a ellos todavía.

Durante estas semanas, me divertí con mis compañeros y conocí a personas increíbles

que extrañaré y con quienes espero seguir en contacto.

Pasamos momentos muy divertidos y uno que otro momento amargo, pero todo es parte de la experiencia de un intercambio.

La gente en Mérida es la más amable, cálida que he conocido y su acento tan único como ellos. Mi familia anfitriona siempre estuvo atenta y me arropó desde el primer día para no sentirme sola, y eso lo agradeceré por siempre.

Conforme pasaban los días, me di cuenta de que México tiene mucho más que ofrecer de lo que los medio relatan y presentan a la sociedad.

México es historia, cultura, amabilidad en donde sus colores pintorescos, sus ruinas, sus bosques y sus playas lo hacen ser único.

Para los estudiantes que piensan hacer un intercambio durante su educación en la Universidad Estatal de San Diego y tienen miedo, háganlo no se arrepentirán.

Este viaje los ayudará a conocer más sobre ustedes, podrán aprender de un nuevo país y mirarán de otra perspectiva el mundo entero.

Fue hasta el último día que supe que significaba un ‘xix’, los yucatecos la utilizan para referirse a un poco cuando están tomando o para alguna otra actividad.

Mérida, te quedarás por siempre en mi corazón. Tu amor al recibirmé fue lo que me hizo querer regresar una vez más.

Alejandra Luna es estudiante de último año de español. Síguela en Twitter @alelunaglls.

Opinión: Un tiro al blanco como minoría en mi país por Antonio márquez ESCRITOR

En las últimas dos semanas han pasado dos tiroteos donde los latinos han sido el motivo principal de odio y el blanco fácil.

La primera vez que fui afectado por una balacera fue en el 2016.

El 12 de junio de ese año hubo un acto de odio en contra de la comunidad LGBT en el club nocturno Pulse de Miami.

En donde alrededor de 49 personas perdieron la vida, y un día después de este atentando mis compañeros y yo tuvimos una junta en el antro donde yo trabajaba.

Escuchar que alguien quería matar a tanta gente, y que podría pasar en nuestro club me dio mucho miedo.

A su vez, sentía coraje porque no sabía cómo defender a los que nos quisieran hacer mal y ayudar a las familias que fueron afectadas, pero también preocupado por no saber cuándo nos iba a tocar a nosotros.

El pánico que tuve ese entonces hizo que mi

inconsciente reaccionara de una manera diferente. Cada vez que una caja se caía o cerraban una puerta muy fuerte pensaba que me encontraba en peligro.

Estos nuevos atentados de odio los relación con los del 2016, porque también fue dañada una comunidad minoritaria y que muchos no quieren.

Desde ese atentado, mi interior puso un tiro en blanco en mi espalda porque soy parte de esas comunidades minoritarias que algunos de nuestra sociedad odian.

Duré tiempo saliendo a la calle con miedo a no regresar a la casa y sin poder divertirme con mis amigos por miedo a las balas.

Unos días antes de que pasaran los tiroteos, estaba en una entrevista con un amigo para un proyecto en donde los soñadores o estudiantes de DACA pudieran contar sus historias y comenté cómo me sentía siendo un tiro al blanco hacia los retractores.

Es triste ver como el color de piel, idioma y cultura puedan traer odio y sed de venganza a las comunidades minoritarias que viven en este país y pierden

la vida en atentados racistas.

Durante el desfile de ‘Pride’ de este año, fueron contratados muchos agentes de seguridad y vigilancia, sin embargo, no me sentía seguro de caminar por las calles apoyando a la comunidad.

Imaginaba que en algún momento alguien llegará y mataría a muchísima gente inocente y no fuese tratado como un criminal por su color

balaceras, algunas veces una tras otra, en donde los latinos son afectados.

Desde que pasó el acto de racismo en Walmart en El Paso, Texas, la gente hispana vive con más pánico.

Las declaraciones dadas por el atacante donde dijo que él quería matar a gente latina, es por eso que acudió a un lugar que es demasiado visitado por la

“Al final del día, mi identidad, el color de mi piel y mis raíces me hace sentir como un objetivo en movimiento, pero el miedo y el odio no me detendrá a vivir mi vida”.

– Antonio Márquez, Escritor de Mundo Azteca. de piel.

El miedo de ser víctima no me paraliza, ni me impide salir adelante.

Ahora, cuento con más habilidad de estar alerta en donde están las salidas de emergencias y qué hacer si llego a estar en un atentado.

Día a día, se han escuchado nuevos casos e historias de

comunidad hispana.

Estos casos de racismo se han dado frecuentemente desde hace tres años atrás afectando a un país entero y no solamente minorías.

Lalo Alcaraz, hispano americano caricaturista, dibujó un latino con un tiro al blanco en la espalda, y esa persona puede ser mi primo, mi vecino

o yo.

Alcaraz dio a entender que a cualquiera de nosotros nos puede suceder, solamente por estar en el lugar y la hora equivocada.

Al final del día, mi identidad, el color de mi piel y mis raíces me hace sentir como un objetivo en movimiento, pero el miedo y el odio no me detendrá a vivir mi vida.

Siento que el gobierno debe de tomar una acción inmediata del uso de armas de fuego, no sólo porque mi comunidad está en riesgo, sino porque todos en EEUU lo están.

No podemos seguir viviendo con miedo al salir a la calle y pensar que en cualquier momento nos atacarán por la espalda.

Ojalá, la leyes cambiarán y pare el uso de armas de fuego.

Tristemente, el odio hacia las minorías y el señalamiento por el tipo de piel nunca cambiarán y el racismo seguirá.

Con este tiroteo se sumó a 250 a lo que ve de ese 2019.

Antonio Márquez es estudiante de último año de periodismo. Síguelo en Twitter @antoniotmarquez.

10

The Daily Aztec

Arts & Culture

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 EDITOR: Ceighlee Fennel • arts@thedailyaztec.com

Upcoming semester chock full of concerts and GoldLink as opening acts.

The rapper is creative, innovative and showcases a great amount of talent throughout his humorous yet thought provoking raps.

“IGOR” topped the charts, knocking out pop artists such as DJ Khaled.

He will be playing on Saturday, Oct. 19.

Songs You May Know: “EARFQUAKE” and “See You Again” Songs You Should Listen To: “NEW MAGIC WAND” and “WHAT’S GOOD I THINK” LIZZO AT CAL COAST OPEN AIR THEATER This R&B singer has taken over the internet with her selflove, outstanding vocals and twerking. Lizzo is not afraid to show the world who she is no matter how over the top it may seem. She has become an icon for women across the world, and her songs have become the anthems of the summer. She will be performing on Thursday, Oct. 24.

You cannot go an hour listening to the radio without hearing her hit “Truth Hurts.”

Songs You May Know: “Truth Hurts” and “Good as Hell” Songs You Should Listen To: “Juice” and “Cuz I Love You” Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Lizzo dropped a new album and will be performing at San Diego State on Thursday, Oct. 24. at the Cal Coast Open Air Theater.

by Kelly Kerrigan SENIOR STAFF WRITER

This past summer was not short of new things, like animal prints, colorful makeup, “Euphoria” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” But, most importantly this summer has delivered racks of new music, leading to a fall full of new tours.

Here is a complete guide to some of the best shows this upcoming semester: JOHN MAYER AT VIEJAS ARENA John Mayer began gracing our lives with his distinct vocals and soothing guitar riffs back in the early 2000s. Since then, he attests to becoming a “recovering ego addict”. He is also part of The Grateful Dead and hosts a late night talk show on Instagram Live. According to Mayer, his new tour will feature a two-act show to make sure everyone gets what they came for. The show is on Wednesday, Sept. 11.

Songs You May Know: “New Light” and “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” Songs You Should Listen To: “I Guess I Just Feel Like” and “Love on the Weekend” KAABOO DEL MAR AT THE DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS Featuring: Kings of Leon, Mumford & Sons, Black Eyed Peas, One Republic, Snoop Dog, Dave Matthews Band, Plain White T’s and many more.

KAABOO Del Mar is a unique festival which incorporates art, music, food and comedy.

The festival has brought traffic to the Del Mar fairgrounds with people traveling from all over the country for the entertainment packed weekend.

This year’s lineup has a nostalgic

feel because it features artists who have seen their peaks throughout the last decade. This festival is from Friday, Sept. 13 to Sunday, Sept. 15 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

CHANCE THE RAPPER AT PECHANGA ARENA The Chicago-based rapper released his highly anticipated third album, “The Big Day”, this past July.

The rapper is known for his dedication to social work and political commentary. Since being titled “Kanye’s Protege” by fans, Chance has paved his own path in the music world and created a name for himself.

He isn’t a protege anymore. This show is on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

Songs You May Know: “Cocoa Butter Kisses” and “No Problem” Songs You Should Listen to: “Hot Shower” and “Do You Remember” CRSSD FESTIVAL AT WATERFRONT PARK Featuring: Portugal. The Man, KAYTRANADA, Polo & Pan, FISHER, Walker & Royce, Hot Chip, Kaskade and Shiba San with many other artists CRSSD Festival comes to Waterfront Park twice a year bringing the house, techno and electronic scene to San Diego.

This year the festival has brought in rock artist Portugal.

The Man as well as other notable DJ’s such as FISHER and Kaskade.

The two-day experience offers a refreshing contemporary vibe compared to other mainstream music festivals.

This festival is from Saturday, Sept. 28 and Sunday, Sept. 29 GRETA VAN FLEET AT CAL COAST

OPEN AIR THEATER These rock stars have inspired much talk among the music industry. The band of brothers have a sound that transports you to Woodstock, but look as though they’re in college.

Their success grew after their first EP, “From the Fires”, opening a new door to classic rock. Since then, they have released their first album, “The Anthem of the Peaceful Army.”

Their show is on Sunday, Sept.

29.

Songs You May Know: “When the Curtain Falls” and “Safari Song” Songs You Should Listen To: “Age of Man” and “Flower Power” VAMPIRE WEEKEND AND SOCCER MOMMY AT CAL COAST OPEN AIR THEATER Ezra Koenig and his band Vampire Weekend have returned with their newest album, “Father of the Bride”, which is their first album in six years.

This album carries their traditional indie-pop sound that originally gained popularity.

However, they paired their past sound with a more sonically mature tracklist for the new album.

They will be playing on Thursday. Oct. 3 at Cal Coast Open Air Theater.

Songs You May Know: “A-Punk” and “Unbelievers” Songs You Should Listen To: “This Life” and “Unbearably White” TYLER, THE CREATOR AT PECHANGA ARENA After incredible success from his newest album, “IGOR”, Tyler, the Creator is coming to San Diego with the Blood Orange

HOZIER AT CAL COAST OPEN AIR THEATRE Hozier gifted our ears with “Take Me to Church” five years ago, and this past year he released his newest album, “Wasteland, Baby!” The indiefolk singer has awed people with authentic rawness that lies within his vocals. His newest album has evolved since the first because he has transitioned from a sad message to a more happy take on life.

This show is at Cal Coast Open Air Theater on Saturday, Oct. 26.

Songs You May Know: “Take Me To Church” and “Almost (Sweet Music)” Songs You Should Listen To: “Movement” and “Nina Cried Power” THE BLACK KEYS AND MODEST MOUSE AT PECHANGA ARENA The infamous rock band, the Black Keys, released their newest

album this past June. “Let’s Rock” has delivered the signature Black Keys sound fans fell in love with.

The Ohio natives are ready to rock out and let loose after their first album release in five years.

Modest Mouse is joining the Keys after releasing a new single this past spring, “I’m Still Here.”

Both bands play together at the Pechanga Arena on Sunday, Nov. 17.

Songs You May Know: “Lonely Boy” and “Lo/Hi” Songs You Should Listen To: “Weight of Love” and “Sit Around and Miss You” WONDERFRONT FESTIVAL AT WATERFRONT PARK Featuring: MGMT, Hippo Campus, Tyga, Walk the Moon, X Ambassadors, Phantogram and Miguel along with other bands This November, a brand new music and arts festival is coming to Waterfront Park named, “Wonderfront”.

The lineup features a range of genres from indie to rap and everything in between.

The lineup also features artists such as Ben Harper, Parquet Courts, Japanese Breakfast, Vince Staples, Flatbush Zombies and more.

The festival goes from Friday, Nov. 22 to Sunday, Nov. 24.

OTHER CONCERTS: Friday, Aug. 23: Kacey Musgraves at Cal Coast Open Air Theatre Wednesday, Aug. 28: The Smashing Pumpkins at North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre Wednesday, Aug. 28: ZZ Top and Cheap Trick at Cal Coast Open Air Theatre Wednesday, Aug. 28: Hot Flash Heat Wave at the Irenic Sunday, Sept. 1: Porter Robinson at OMNIA Friday, Sept. 6: Deep Purple at Pechanga Resort and Casino Tuesday, Sept 10: Carrie Underwood at Pechanga Arena Kelly Kerrigan is a senior studying journalism and media studies.

Photo courtesy of @donslens

Halsey performed on San Diego State’s campus in the Viejas Arena a couple years ago in 2017.

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 EDITOR: Ceighlee Fennel • arts@thedailyaztec.com

Arts & Culture

The Daily Aztec

11

San Diego serves up multicultural food

by Devin Whatley STAFF WRITER

With a new school year coming, visitors have a chance to explore what makes the San Diego culinary scene unique.

The city features no lack of multicultural food options, and each neighborhood comes with its own specialties.

From Filipino, to Korean, Mexican and Chinese foods, here is a look at different styles to try around San Diego.

When it comes to Filipino food, there are two must-visit places. The first one is Max’s Restaurant, located on 2127 Olympic Pkwy. in Chula Vista.

This restaurant is well known for its signature fried chicken as well as other traditional Filipino dishes, such as sisig and palabok.

Sisig is chopped pork with egg, and palabok includes noodles with shrimp, pork, vegetables and onions.

Another popular Filipino restaurant is Villa Manila on 689 H St., another Chula Vista destination. Paired with a great atmosphere, the restaurant serves a special family dish known as Kamayan, which is an offering of many Filipino dishes served on a table covered in banana leaves. It is customary to eat the food by hand, making the experience fun for first-timers.

Another popular multicultural food San Diego offers is Korean food. While many Korean restaurants have made a home for themselves in Convoy, another notable spot is 356

Korean BBQ, located on 1640 Camino Del Rio N. in Mission Valley.

One reason this place is a go-to spot for Korean food is because it allows customers to experience something new.

With Korean barbeque, people can cook the food themselves on a grill built into their own dining table. Similar to most Korean barbeque places, this restaurant also offers a menu with a variety of meats ranging from pork, beef, brisket, chicken and bulgogi. Guests should embrace the “all you can eat option” for a little taste of everything.

Those who visit San Diego should also keep in mind the city’s vast options for Chinese cuisine. One particular place to visit is Wei Wei Express on 6465 University Ave., just 10 minutes south of campus.

This restaurant serves traditional, no-frills Chinese food at relatively low prices compared to other highly-rated Chinese restaurants. Visitors should appreciate the comforting atmosphere, made better with great customer service.

They are best known for their Wei Wei Chicken Wings, which are chicken wings glazed in a special spicy, sweet, basil sauce.

Some other menu items to try are Salt & Pepper Chicken, Wei Wei Shrimp and Tonkotsu Ramen.

Lastly, a visit to San Diego is not complete without a taste of some delicious Mexican food, and there is certainly no lack of it in the border city. One of the

best places in the city is Tacos El Gordo on 689 H St. in Chula Vista. This restaurant, with locations as far as Las Vegas, is known for being the main standard of San Diego mexican food, and also holds the title for the best tacos in Las Vegas according to USA Today.

The company’s very first location was opened in 1998 in San Diego. From adobada and carne asada, to suadero and chorizo, there are a variety of tacos to taste that can satisfy any hungry stomach, and all of them are very affordable.

San Diego is a unique city with a variety of multicultural food options for locals and visitors alike. There are many cultures to experience that can leave a lasting impression.

Devin Whatley is a sophomore studying journalism.

Photos courtesy of Sandee Cornejo

Banana leaf tables and ice cream can be found at Villa Manila (top and left), while 365 Korean BBQ lets you cook your own food on your table (bottom right).

San Diego destinations just a trolley stop away

by Juniper Perkins STAFF WRITER

Between seemingly endless homework, going to classes, and the stress of “cabin fever,” it’s important to take some time to explore San Diego.

Not every student is lucky enough to have their own car on campus. Fortunately, San Diego State University has one of the trolley stops. It is located

between Adam’s Humanities, the Aztec Student Union and Plant Power.

The underground MTS trolley stop gives students access to attractions such as Balboa Park, Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter.

Balboa Park is one of San Diego’s most popular attractions.

The park is home to 17 museums, 19 gardens, 13 attractions and more. To get there, take the Sycuan Green Line and get off at

the Santa Fe Depot spot. From there, the park is either an uphill trek or a quick bus ride away.

The park is currently hosting Food Truck Fridays until the end of September. According to the event website, these events will give the public unique opportunities to sample a diverse selection of gourmet food trucks.

Some of the vendors include Marcel’s Belgian Waffles and Chameleon Cuisine.

Old Town is another popular

Photo by Emily Burgess

Downtown San Diego enjoyed a cloudy sunset which is seen from this overhead angle viewing part of the city, accessible from the trolley.

tourist spot in San Diego. The Green Line stops at the edge of the historic site, and the attractions are just a short walk away. From the Whaley House to Cafe Coyote, there are many options for visitors to choose from.

History buffs can explore the Mormom Battalion Historic site, the State Historic Park and the Cygnet Theatre.

Shopaholics will feel right at home around Old Town’s boutiques. There are over 30 restaurants and food options ranging from authentic Mexican food to Cold Stone. Don’t forget your Lactaid!

Students and family alike can explore Little Italy’s 48 blocks of restaurants, pubs, art galleries and shops. The Green Line stops at Waterfront Park, and the heart of Little Italy is a 10 minute walk away.

Since the 1920s, Little Italy has been home to a vibrant Italian-American community sharing their stories and success with everyone. Several events, including the San Diego Padres Italian Heritage Night, take place in the district.

If those shops aren’t enough, Fashion Valley mall offers more than 200 stores ranging from Forever 21 to Gucci, and The LEGO Store to Rolex. It also has eateries, restaurants and an AMC

theatre. The Green Line’s Fashion Valley stop presents a grand aerial view of the entire mall.

The Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego is a sneak peak into the hustle and bustle of post-graduation life. Lyfts and Ubers are numerous, and are handy for navigating through the busy streets after your long trolley ride on the Sycuan Green Line.

The restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter are generally on the fancier, three-dollar-sign side of entertaining. Every now and then, the urge to dress up for a night on the town creeps up, and the Gaslamp Quarter is the perfect place to show off.

On the more casual side, there is the Mission Valley Center stop, accessible by the Sycuan Green Line. People can reach the Westfield Mission Valley Mall, a Target, a Pei Wei and more with a short walk from the trolley stop. .There are countless more attractions accessible by trolley on the Orange and UC San Diego Blue lines. From the Courthouse to San Ysidro, Santee to Seaport Village, the MTS trolley system gives students access to a myriad of tourist spots and everyday necessities.

Juniper Perkins is a sophomore studying journalism with an emphasis in media studies.

12

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The Back Page

Aug. 14 - 20, 2019 Editor: Ceighlee Fennel • arts@thedailyaztec.com

Outside Lands rolls into San Francisco Graphic by Emily Burgess

by Ceighlee Fennel ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

Outside Lands opened up in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco this weekend, in case you didn’t see all the Instagram posts. For most, it was a magical experience walking through the eucalyptus trees, listening to the lineup packed with alternative artists throughout the weekend.

Most people find festivals to be a are a great escape from their bustling lives, and Outside Lands was no different. There was a Grasslands section for recreational marijuana use, along with Beer and Wine Lands. Giant mushrooms popped up in the Alice and Wonderland-themed Cocktail Magic section where people could try mixed drinks and eat food.

However, the main attractions could be found on the five stages spread out in the park. Lands End was the main stage with large performers such as Blink 182, Twenty One Pilots, Flume, Childish Gambino and more. The smaller Sutro and Twin Peaks stages didn’t disappoint with their own stars such as Kygo, RL Grime, the Lumineers and others.

Tarynn Huitt, a festival goer, was dancing around while waiting for Twenty One Pilots to start their set on the main stage.

“I’m most excited to see Twenty One Pilots, Flume and Judah and the Lion because they’ve been my favorite bands for so long, like since I’ve been in college,” Huitt said. “This is my seventh time seeing Twenty One Pilots.”

Many of the artists called on their audiences to love themselves and each other without commenting on anything outside of the festival sphere. Taylor Bennett, Chance the Rapper’s brother, performed on the main stage and said, “There’s a lot we need to fix outside of here.”

Half Alive and Childish Gambino both capitalized on having back-up performers.

Half Alive had choreographed dance numbers while Gambino’s set featured singing choir members. Alina Baraz was accompanied by artists who painted on stage while she sang.

Twenty One Pilots delivered and put on a show by executing backflips off pianos and even featuring a crowd-surfing drummer.

Josh Dun, the band’s drummer, had his drums on a platform the audience could hold up while he played. Tyler Joseph, the lead vocalist of Twenty One Pilots, said when they both started, he told Dun, “With my fashion and your backflips, we are going to make it.”

Shallou, a DJ who performed on the Twin Peaks stage, fit the uplifting message most artists supported when he said, “Thanks for coming out here and not being afraid to

Gambino started his performance on a raised platfrom.

enjoy life and have fun.”

Gambino went a step further by dedicating time to the topic of loving one another. He had two rules during his set: Number one, love yourself and love each other. Number two, no cell phones because he wanted people to live in the moment.

“The Bay makes you understand how close and separated people are,” Gambino said. “You go over a bridge and everything changes. We are all just people. I like these shows because I get to see the future right in front of me.”

Then on Sunday, Paul Simon closed on the main stage while Kygo closed on the Twin Peaks stage. Both artists were the last to play for the whole festival.

Outside Lands itself is an alternative, hipster world filled with fun fashion, quiet fog and music that falls further from the mainstream than other popular festivals.

The vibe was really down-to-earth until Lil Wayne came on and all the 12-year-old kids started moshing.

Art was prevalent almost everywhere you went. There were huge graffiti murals, small sculptures, live painting and other details strewn throughout the venue. The lockers were even brightly colored green, orange and pink.

Glass noodles were a delicious addition to the festival.

One thing you can’t have a festival without is the food. There is no re-admittance after you leave the festival, so all food and water must come from inside the gates. The positive side is the food is delicious. The negative side is that a small plate of fries is $10. And let’s not forget the drinks. One beer cost $12.

There are tons of options to choose from such as vegan food, glass noodles, deepfried Oreos, burgers, boba, popcorn shrimp and the list goes on. And if eating food wasn’t enough for you. The Gastro Magic stage held cooking shows where some of the musicians would come up and cook with professionals.

Because it is such a hip scene, everyone had on their most eclectic and trendy clothes. Thrift finds and alterations were very important additions to the funky fashion trends. Seventies bell bottoms and psychedelic patterns made an appearance alongside nineties styles such as plaid and retro clothes.

Festival-goers danced around in overalls, cheetah print, fringe, neon pants and stripes. Some of the must-have items were clear backpacks, blankets and hats.

Dimariae Williams and Erin Swalwell wore fluffy jackets, shiny pants and nipple pasties. They talked about clothing overall and its limitations.

“I wore this because I wanted to be wild and free,” Williams said.

Swalwell was a little more rushed in

Photos by Ceighlee Fennel

Taylor Bennett, Chance the Rapper’s brother, performed on the first day on the festival on the main stage, Lands End.

her decision, “I was running late, so I just threw it on. I got the yellow jacket to take to Burning Man, but yellow wouldn’t work because of the dust.”

There were more understated pieces to the festival. Flowerlands was near the Twin Peaks stage where the North Bay Flower Collective was celebrating local flowers and educating people about flowers from overseas.

Pascals Huber, a volunteer, said, “Your children shouldn’t be smelling roses from overseas because it’s bad for you. We are here to spread local organic flowers.”

Another effort made by Outside Lands to better the environment was its contract with Clean Vibes. The festival was able to divert 92% of its waste by composting, recycling and reusing items like utensils, cups and water bottles.

“We are trying to keep the park as clean as possible,” Jake Barnes, a Clean Vibes Trash Talker. “We are hoping to keep landfills empty and compost as much as possible.”

One of the best parts is to be able to walk around in nature and hear music wherever you go. With all of the music on the radio and on apps, it’s amazing and refreshing to hear live music.

Outside Lands had all ages, all races, all

genders, all orientations and all kinds of people there. It was a beautiful collective of a love for music that represented the lighthearted side of San Francisco.

Ceighlee Fennel is a senior studying journalism.

Williams and Swalwell wore fun colors and textures for day one.

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