08-26-2013

Page 1


2 NEWS

MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2013

#assdsu

Associated Students: How to get involved camille lozano staff writer

With approximately 1,200 students involved, San Diego State Associated Students is one of the largest student governance organizations within the California State University system. As an organization and nonprofit corporation, A.S. offers a multitude of opportunities for students to participate in its on-campus government. Four groups comprise the student governing body: the A.S. Board of Directors, and three A.S. councils, the University Council, Campus Life Council and Judicial Affairs Council. The A.S. Board of Directors includes the president, executive vice president, vice president of external relations, vice president of financial affairs, andvice president of university affairs. The ASCLC includes two student at-large campus representatives and seven for commission representatives. The ASUC’s members represent each college with one seat provided for every 1,500 students. Many seats in the Board of Directors, University Council and Campus Life Council are decided through an election process within the student body. Elections for the upcoming year will take place during

the spring semester. In order to run for office, each candidate should submit basic information to be published in The Aztec and on the campaign polling website, as well as attend a meeting detailing the rules and regulations for campaigning. Marketing junior and Community Service Board representative Jacqueline Karczewski highly recommends the election process. “The past two years, I have gone through the election process and although it takes a lot of time and effort, it is a lot of fun. It was also a great learning experience,” Karczewski said. For first-time freshman, Karczewski suggests getting involved through A.S.’s Freshman Leadership Experience team. “What really got me involved (in student

government) was Associated Students’ FLEX Team,” Karczewski said. “It is a team especially designed for freshman to learn about Associated Students. We helped out with different projects, while shadowing the executive members of Associated Students. I made a lot of great friends in FLEX as well.” Another way to get involved in A.S. is to fill out an application, which is a series of short essay questions. Applicants must also go through an interview process. Most board or committee positions that fall under the four governing bodies of A.S. are appointed through the application process. Vice President of External Relations Javier Gomez said the easiest way to get involved in A.S. is applying for a board or committee position. Gomez applied and was accepted to the Awards Committee during his freshman year. Besides student government, A.S. provides many amenities to students,

Kelly

Gomez

Morse

faculty, staff and the SDSU community. The Aztec Recreation Center, Viejas Arena, the Aztec Aquaplex, the Mission Bay Aquatic Center, the new Aztec Student Union, the SDSU Children’s Center, and Scripps Cottage are all owned and operated through the A.S. corporation. In addition to managing these facilities, A.S. is in charge of GreenFest, a week-long celebration with events designed to promote sustainability. It’s also a co-sponsor of Aztec Nights and homecoming. “A.S. gives students the opportunity to do things they wouldn’t think they would get to do in college,” Gomez said. “My most memorable experience has been winning my campaign…everything I had worked for in those four years, everything I had put so much time and effort into became something I had always wanted.” Gomez recommends A.S. to any student interested in getting involved in school and student government. “We truly want more students to get involved… come talk to any of the executive officers, we all have an opendoor policy and would love to help students find their niche in A.S. There are so many ways to be a part of A.S,” Gomez said.

Chan

cohen

Associated Students’ executives jump with aztec pride all five comprise the a.s. board of directors. Photo by wesley beights, staff photographer

#famousaztecs

Aztec alumni made it high above the sky raquel martin staff writer

Jenny Amaraneni; CEO of SOLO Eyewear Jenny Amaraneni attended San Diego State for her master’s degree. Amaraneni developed the idea of making eyewear during an international entrepreneurship course at SDSU. In 2011, just months before graduating, her project was launched worldwide. Amaraneni’s eyewear can now be found in more than 19 countries and has restored the vision of approximately 12,000 people in financial need of prescription eyewear and cataract sunglasses. “Coming to SDSU, changed my life to be honest,” Amaraneni said. “I am tremendously grateful for all of the opportunities that have come from being an Aztec, and being associated with the school. I’m grateful for the teachers who have supported me in pursuing my entrepreneur endeavors, and opened doors courtesy of newscenter

for me to make it possible.” Amaraneni said she’s an Aztec for life because of the support she had while at the university. She says she will always give back to the SDSU community whenever it needs her. Tony Gwynn: Head coach of the SDSU baseball team and “Mr. Padre” himself, Tony Gwynn began his career at SDSU as an outfielder back in 1979. He was initially recruited by the school as a basketball point guard, but after a year was given a chance to play with the baseball team. His career at SDSU helped him win a list of different recognitions and each season he set record high averages. His success as an AllAmerican Aztec baseball player catapulted his major league career as a San Diego Padres player to even greater heights. With a multitude of different awards and achievements including being a Hall of

Famer, member of the 3,000-hit club, and 16-time National Leauge All-Star, Gwynn is a living legend on campus and possibly one of the most famous Aztecs to date.

Kathleen Kennedy: Film producer Kathleen Kennedy is another student who has reached extraordinary success after her SDSU career. Kennedy studied telecommunications and film at SDSU. She is now one of the most highly successful film producers of all time and has worked closely beside Steven Spielberg to create cinema classics such as “E.T.” “The Sixth Sense” and “Schindler’s List.” Although Kennedy has reached a magnitude of success generating more than $5 billion in box office receipts, she still shows her support for the Aztec community by supplying financial support and scholarships to SDSU film students.

Ellen Ochoa: Former astronaut Ellen Ochoa received her bachelor’s degree in physics at SDSU in 1980. After receiving her master’s at Stanford University, she was selected by NASA in 1990, making her the world’s first Hispanic female astronaut. Ochoa, a mission specialist and flight engineer, has spent more than 950 hours in space and has been on four different space flights. Today, Ochoa is a director of NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. According to SDSU NewsCenter, Ochoa said she was fortunate to have amazing experiences in space. “My education there (SDSU) gave me a great start and confidence to pursue the next step,” Ochoa said. She also told NewsCenter if she didn’t study physics at SDSU, she may have chosen majors in music, business, journalism or even computer sciences.


OPINION

MONDAY, august 26, 2013

#Filnerfiasco

3

Women must learn from Filner scandal morgan rubin contributor

W

omen around the world can finally go to work in peace. Well, at least women in the vicinity of San Diego City Hall. Mayor Bob Filner has finally agreed to step down from his office as the head of our beautiful city effective Friday. As the icing on the cake, he faces possible criminal charges for his alleged sexual misconduct. His 18 accusers, including the dean of San Diego State’s College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts, can be assured that Filner will pay the price for his disturbing, unwelcomed advances. If you’ve seen the photos of Filner’s harem, you’d notice he doesn’t exactly discriminate when choosing the type of women he goes after. Mainly, there are two criteria: female, and breathing (as far as we know). The point is sexual harassment can come at any point in your life, even at a more seasoned age, like these ladies. But age doesn’t actually matter, since it’s all about how you handle the situation. What’s even better is if the actions on his part can be avoided entirely. So here’s some advice that’s a little late for Filner’s Foxy Females,

but could definitely help women who face this problem every day in a variety of circumstances. Women in a male-dominated field are always in a tough place. Any woman who has ever been there knows it’s a “boys club,” meaning they have their own archaic way of doing things and their own sense of humor. That’s all fine and dandy until someone crosses the line. When that happens, it opens the doors for sexual harassment cases. The most important thing you can do as a woman is to know what those boundaries are, and make them clear. Say when you are not comfortable with the situation. It’s a lot easier for would-be harassers to understand what not to do when you spell things out for them. A quick, “That’s completely inappropriate and I don’t appreciate it,” would suffice. It’s even better if coworkers are around to hear the exchange. Had this happened with

Filner, let’s say 20 years ago, it would have been the end of his political career. “He licked my cheek,” “He told me not to wear panties to work,” “He groped me.” Personally, I don’t really get how these women could wait years to come forward about Filner’s blatant creepiness. Did they think it was no big deal? Did they think no one would believe them? I’m betting that since most of them are women in high authority positions, the fear of losing their credibility or their jobs was very real. But so what? Women, your bodies are precious. No man should ever feel like they have the ability to take away your rights. Say one of Filner’s women had come forward as soon as he put them in his disgusting headlock. He would have been reprimanded and it would have kept other women from meeting the same sad, embarrassing fate. Waiting for years for someone else to stand against him was not a smart choice for anyone. It also helps with your credibility to shed

light on the incident as soon as possible, whereas waiting several years before saying anything makes it seem like you’re just looking for your 15 minutes of fame. This is in no way saying women who are sexually harassed ask for or welcome advances in any way. Still, what may equate to being a nice person from your perspective can easily mean something else to another person. Sometimes smiling at them, laughing at their jokes and making small talk registers in their minds as a green light for them to make advances towards you. When they get to this point, it’s important to clarify your boundaries by adjusting your actions towards them, however small those actions may be. The downside to this is that if the person is someone with more power than you, such as a professor or a mayor, they may not take kindly to you ignoring them. And when all else fails, learn selfdefense. Seriously ladies. Every woman needs to know how to defend herself, but be reasonable with it. There’s no need to karate chop a guy if he shakes your hand. Know what your personal space is, and when it’s being violated. Trust me, a few strategically placed blows will make him think twice about even looking at you again.


4 OPINION

MONDAY, august 26, 2013

#ratemyprofessor

Students deserve to know about profs madison hopkins senior staff writer

C

hoosing one’s own schedule, classes and professors is one of the benefits of the collegiate lifestyle. However, with thousands of options, and generally little guidance, it can be a daunting task. Looking at San Diego State’s WebPortal or the course catalog can give students some basic information, but how are students supposed to know what a class is actually like from a list of random professors’ names and a vague paragraph of the overall intent of the class? If you’re like any normal college student, you probably go to Ratemyprofessors.com. For the few who don’t know, Ratemyprofessors.com is an online forum allowing students to anonymously rate professors on scales of helpfulness, easiness, clarity and “hotness.” Whenever possible, I have used the site to select which professors and classes have been recommended by past students before deciding which courses I think will be compatible with my learning style. Although sometimes this means just finding easy classes, other times it has helped me find teachers I felt I would work well with. In my two years at SDSU, this site aided me in meeting the professors who I believe have had the most profound impact

on my college career. I would even go as far as to credit a significant amount of my academic success to this site. With that being said, things could be better. Ratemyprofessors.com offers an uncensored review of the quality of professors, a fact that is both a blessing and a curse. The information provided is useful to students only because currently there is no better option. According to the website, more than 4 million students visit the site each month to read reviews of 8,000 schools. However, a study done in 2009 by Appalachian State University professors Elizabeth Davison and Jammie Price found that less than onethird of these users actually post reviews. This means the majority of students are taking advice from the minority—a minority that is most likely not an accurate sampling from an entire class, but rather those who have either intensely negative or positive feelings toward the professor. Average students may not feel strongly enough to take the time to give feedback to stabilize the extremes, leaving the results of such reviews unfairly skewed.

As with any scientific study, the larger the sample, the more accurate the findings will be. So while students appreciate the limited information Ratemyprofessors. com provides, the voluntary nature of the reviews will forever leave it subpar to an alternative with greater participation. As of right now, such an alternative does not exist, but the possibility for one does. At the end of each semester, students are required to fill out a faculty evaluation of each professor before they are allowed to see their final grades. Students are asked to rank professors on a variety of topics regarding the class and are given the opportunity to write comments. This information is then given to department heads, administrators and the professor to help evaluate the course’s effectiveness and make appropriate changes to the curriculum. While this all sounds incredibly helpful for the faculty, I can’t help but notice how we seem to be missing out on a huge opportunity to make this information doubly beneficial. If these evaluations were released to the students they could make

writehere, writenow. Visit thedailyaztec.com/jobs and apply today!

informed decisions based on accurate information. Currently, the evaluations are kept confidential. However, with flawed ratings available on sites such as Ratemyprofessors.com, releasing this data is an easy way to standardize the measurement of reviews and hold professors accountable for their own response to the criticism. Political science professor Edward Heck finds the official faculty evaluations to be helpful in updating his curriculum, and believes it could be beneficial for students to get a better grasp of the tone and style of each class. “I believe it would be more helpful to students if there were a way to release the open comments rather than the score,” he said. Understanding your own preferred method of learning and finding professors with compatible teaching styles could allow some students to earn better grades. Even though releasing this information to the public will clearly shed unfavorable light on some professors, total participation will disperse the results enough to separate the real problems from the disgruntled extremes. The more information students have before the first day of classes, the more prepared they will be to find academic success. The information is there, so there is no reason not to use it.


NEWS

MONDAY, August 26, 2013

#SDSUonline

5

SDSU posts and tweets on social media Sofia casillas copy chief

As the school year begins, many students may be wondering how they can keep up with everything going on at San Diego State. The Aztec has compiled a list of social media websites where SDSU students can stay up to date with campus events. The sites were chosen by the quality of content and their relevance to SDSU. Facebook facebook.com/SDSUstudentlife This page is designed for students who want to get involved on campus. From the latest information on Aztec Nights to school elections, SDSU Student Life has everything for Aztecs. Students should check out this page to learn more about participating in SDSU functions and to find out about contests and giveaways. facebook.com/associatedstudentssdsu Aztecs should “like” the Associated Student Facebook page to keep track of student politics and events on campus. This

page shares information about upcoming events around campus such as sports games, concerts and Aztec Nights. It also provides readers with up-to-date news about SDSU, such as what’s going on with construction, new programs for students and student and faculty achievements.

SDSUHousing wants Aztecs living in the residence halls to use the hashtag “#AztecMoveIn” to share memories of move-in day. Students with the best posts will be awarded a prize.

Instagram Twitter

@SDSU_NewsTeam This is the official Twitter account of SDSU run by SDSU Media Relations and New Media team. This news team is constantly updating its Twitter feed with the latest campus-centric and local news. SDSU NewsTeam provides coverage about campus happenings such as construction progress, research projects, sports games and other campus events. @SDSUHousing For students moving in to SDSU residence halls, the Office of Housing Administration is constantly updating its Twitter feed to keep followers informed about on-campus living. This year, @

@SDSU Want constant updates about why SDSU is one of the best campuses of the California State University system? This account is the best way to remind yourself why you chose America’s Finest City to attend college. @SDSU posts photos of SDSU landmarks, buildings and landscapes of San Diego hot spots, in addition to pictures from on-campus events. @thedailyaztec Student perspective is key to portraying an accurate representation of SDSU. You will find photojournalism at its greatest as editors and writers snap photos to depict campus life and give you a behind-thescenes look at what happens during The Daily Aztec’s productions.

Website SDtexty.com Have a long list of textbooks to buy, but not enough money to pay full price? No worries, SDTexty.com is SDSU’s textbook exchange website. Students are able to search textbooks for sale in addition to selling their own. The advantages of using SDTexty.com instead of the bookstore or KB Books is that most of the time the books are sold by students at more affordable prices. The website also encourages students to meet on campus for book exchanges. If you want to save money, this is the site for you. SDSU President Elliot Hirshman’s Blog http://sdsupresident.wordpress.com This blog gives readers a chance to find out what’s going on in our president’s mind. From innovative ideas he wants to incorporate in his daily duties to the songs he enjoys, students will get a more human perspective. The future of the university might be hidden between the lines of this well written and interesting blog.


INTERESTING CLASSES HANNAH BEAUSANG NEWS EDITOR

ARTURO GARCIA SIERRA ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

The future So you like to read sci-fi books and you may believe in a few Armageddon rumors. That’s ok, because SDSU offers a humanities class titled “The Future.” You can earn three units while learning about the visions for tomorrow, cloning, intelligent life and possibilities for the future. Prerequisites include completion of the General Education requirement for the humanities foundations of learning II.C. for non-majors. This class is offered in the fall.

Forensic Anthropology The class is morbid and full of gore, but also extremely informative about crime. “From the Grave: Modern Forensic Anthropology” is also an upper division general education elective, so both a dark curiosity for the science behind murder cases and a graduation requirement will be satisfied. Prepare to be shocked and perhaps even a little frightened by the content of this class; it’s not so much a constant display of skull pictures that’s displeasing, but the detail in which the stories are told by the professors. This class is offered in the fall.

Drugs and behavior Dismiss all the misinformation you’ve gathered throughout the years about drugs—both illicit and pharmaceutic—and gain some actual knowledge about how they work, where they come from and the effects they have on your body. “Drugs and Behavior” is an upper division general education elective, so you won’t have to take it just because of the attractive title; it will actually serve as a graduation requirement for all majors. Take good notes and listen attentively because this just might be the course that saves your life. This class is offered in the fall.

World of animals This is the alternative to Biology 100, which is also pretty interesting—but this one focuses on cute, and interestingly repulsive, animals. At first the lectures are about little organisms that are invisible to the human eye, so the material is a bit difficult to grasp. But, once the conversation evolves to the creatures one would marvel at in a Zoo visit, lecture becomes an enjoyable learning experience. “World of Animals” is comprised by a lecture and lab, which can be taken independently, but will most likely result in double success if taken together.

clubs

HANNAH BEAUSANG NEWS EDITOR ARTURO GARCIA SIERRA ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Safezones@sdsu : Ensures campus safety for LGBTs This organization is accepting and proactive for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, queer, intersexed and allies community. It provides a supportive, informative and welcoming atmosphere for all members of the San Diego State community. Andrea O’ Donnell Womyn’s Outreach Association of SDSU: An anti-sexist organization This feminist group is anti-racist, anti-classist, antihomophobic, anti-ablist, anti-sizeist and multi-racial. It addresses issues important to communities that may be marginalized. HeadSTRONG: Fitness and nutrition organization. This group was established to encourage positive self-esteem, leadership and general well-being. The group focuses on physical and mental health, and also fundraises money and donates to nonprofits. Education Without Borders: Promotes awareness of issues faced by underrepresented students This organization provides resources to network, community service, social events, fundraising and leadership opportunities. Through political activism and engagement, it hopes to raise awareness and bring about positive change. Aztec Diamonds: “SDSU’s official drill team” This group of dancing Aztecs describes themselves as “sexy, sensual and sassy.” The group is intended to encourage creative dance, women’s empowerment and cultivate self-esteem. Flying Samaritans: Provides health care for people in need The group of students, alumni, faculty and professionals set up a free monthly medical care center in Ejido Matamoros, Mexico.

“Raising awareness doesn’t just mean educating people about the issues, but also providing people with resources...”

- WOA President Kaia R. Los Huertos.

Content Design by Carlos Jimenez, Production Designer


INTERESTING CLASSES HANNAH BEAUSANG NEWS EDITOR

ARTURO GARCIA SIERRA ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

The future So you like to read sci-fi books and you may believe in a few Armageddon rumors. That’s ok, because SDSU offers a humanities class titled “The Future.” You can earn three units while learning about the visions for tomorrow, cloning, intelligent life and possibilities for the future. Prerequisites include completion of the General Education requirement for the humanities foundations of learning II.C. for non-majors. This class is offered in the fall.

Forensic Anthropology The class is morbid and full of gore, but also extremely informative about crime. “From the Grave: Modern Forensic Anthropology” is also an upper division general education elective, so both a dark curiosity for the science behind murder cases and a graduation requirement will be satisfied. Prepare to be shocked and perhaps even a little frightened by the content of this class; it’s not so much a constant display of skull pictures that’s displeasing, but the detail in which the stories are told by the professors. This class is offered in the fall.

Drugs and behavior Dismiss all the misinformation you’ve gathered throughout the years about drugs—both illicit and pharmaceutic—and gain some actual knowledge about how they work, where they come from and the effects they have on your body. “Drugs and Behavior” is an upper division general education elective, so you won’t have to take it just because of the attractive title; it will actually serve as a graduation requirement for all majors. Take good notes and listen attentively because this just might be the course that saves your life. This class is offered in the fall.

World of animals This is the alternative to Biology 100, which is also pretty interesting—but this one focuses on cute, and interestingly repulsive, animals. At first the lectures are about little organisms that are invisible to the human eye, so the material is a bit difficult to grasp. But, once the conversation evolves to the creatures one would marvel at in a Zoo visit, lecture becomes an enjoyable learning experience. “World of Animals” is comprised by a lecture and lab, which can be taken independently, but will most likely result in double success if taken together.

clubs

HANNAH BEAUSANG NEWS EDITOR ARTURO GARCIA SIERRA ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Safezones@sdsu : Ensures campus safety for LGBTs This organization is accepting and proactive for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, queer, intersexed and allies community. It provides a supportive, informative and welcoming atmosphere for all members of the San Diego State community. Andrea O’ Donnell Womyn’s Outreach Association of SDSU: An anti-sexist organization This feminist group is anti-racist, anti-classist, antihomophobic, anti-ablist, anti-sizeist and multi-racial. It addresses issues important to communities that may be marginalized. HeadSTRONG: Fitness and nutrition organization. This group was established to encourage positive self-esteem, leadership and general well-being. The group focuses on physical and mental health, and also fundraises money and donates to nonprofits. Education Without Borders: Promotes awareness of issues faced by underrepresented students This organization provides resources to network, community service, social events, fundraising and leadership opportunities. Through political activism and engagement, it hopes to raise awareness and bring about positive change. Aztec Diamonds: “SDSU’s official drill team” This group of dancing Aztecs describes themselves as “sexy, sensual and sassy.” The group is intended to encourage creative dance, women’s empowerment and cultivate self-esteem. Flying Samaritans: Provides health care for people in need The group of students, alumni, faculty and professionals set up a free monthly medical care center in Ejido Matamoros, Mexico.

“Raising awareness doesn’t just mean educating people about the issues, but also providing people with resources...”

- WOA President Kaia R. Los Huertos.

Content Design by Carlos Jimenez, Production Designer


8 NEWS

MONDAY, august 26, 2013

#aztecstudentunion

Campus renovations plan to open by 2014 adam burkhart staff writer

Three major ongoing construction projects and repairs to utilities costing more than $189 million are expected to be complete by late fall or early next year. The buildings being built or renovated are the Aztec Student Union, Storm and Nasatir halls and University Towers. In addition, the university is completing the first phase of repairs to campus steam lines. Aztec Student Union The Aztec Student Union on College Avenue (between Manchester Hall and Student Services West) is scheduled for completion Dec. 26, with opening ceremonies predicted for Spring 2014, according to its website. The new $101 million student union was originally expected to open in July, but was pushed back when construction workers encountered unforeseen delays while unearthing utilities beneath the building’s foundation. The 206,000-square foot student union— funded by a $94 student fee increase that goes into effect this fall—is roughly twice as large as the previous Aztec Center, which was demolished to make way for the new

structure. Despite the building’s considerably larger size, it will operate on the same budget as its predecessor because of its sustainable design, San Diego State architect Robert Schulz said. The building is being constructed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Platinum certification standards, a designation of the U.S. Green Building Council for structures that achieve highenergy efficiency. The building will utilize several solar panel arrays located on its roof and Parking Structure 1 to cut its energy costs by roughly 35 percent, Schulz said. In addition, the building’s design netted more than $874,000 in rebates from the California Center for Sustainable Energy beneath the California Solar Initiative, a program to incentivize the construction

of buildings using solar power, Associated Students Director of Facilities and Sustainability Glen Brandenburg said. Storm and Nasatir Halls Lecture spaces in Storm and Nasatir halls will open in the spring once the majority of the $73 million project to renovation is complete. “It was a total renovation. We took it down to raw concrete structure,” Schulz said. The geography lab currently located in Nasatir 100 will move into Storm Hall in spring and the old structure will be demolished to make way for a dining facility. Schulz estimated 30 percent of enrolled students use Storm and Nasatir halls and the Arts & Letters building, all located in the

Design by Mark anthony santos, production designer

northwest corner of campus. The two halls will house eight departments from the College of Arts & Letters. Nasatir Hall, which faces the campus, was designed in the same mission revival style of many buildings on campus, including the new student union, Schulz said. Storm Hall, which rests on the slope overlooking Mission Valley, has a more contemporary design, complete with a glass office-tower block, a large glass-sided lecture hall, and a patio with glass-solar panel trellised veranda. The project is funded by $62.8 million in state bonds and $10.2 million in non-state funding, according to SDSU NewsCenter. University Towers Improvements to the University Towers residence hall include a complete renovation of the first floor to improve circulation, a new facade, added meeting spaces and a new dining facility. Students will move into the residence hall on the corner of 55th Street and Montezuma Road at the start of the fall semester as construction on the dining facility nears completion in September. The $10.1 million renovation is a project of Aztec Ltd. Shops and is funded by its self-generated revenue.


ENTERTAINMENT

MONDAY, august 26, 2013

#tomstoppard

9

Shakespeare’s characters revived for laughs david dixon

entertainment editor Although not written by William Shakespeare, “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” is a perfect addition to The Old Globe’s 2013 Festival. Tom Stoppard’s script, a spinoff of “Hamlet,” has plenty of clever references for fans of the tragedy. Close friends, Rosencrantz (John Lavelle) and Guildenstern (Jay Whittaker), try to figure out the meaning of life. As minor characters, killed off in “Hamlet,” they’re resurrected for the purpose of this play. They spend their time in the wings of a stage, where the show is being performed, waiting for events to unfold. Eventually, the two become involved in classic scenes from the tale of the Prince of Denmark. Becoming more confused about their existence, the courtiers attempt to determine if free will exists in the world they inhabit. What stands out the most in “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” is Stoppard’s intelligent writing that provides sophisticated comedy without being self-indulgent. It’s a fine example of theatre of the absurd with parallels to Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting

for Godot.” Similar to that existentialist story, focusing on men who realize they do not have control of their destinies. Stoppard’s message is pretty grim, however the clever prose keeps the mood from becoming emotionally draining. Adrian Noble’s direction has a fairly straightforward set, and the staging creates a sense of wonder, especially when other thespians are there with the protagonists. This awe is best expressed in Act 3 when Rosencrantz, Guildenstern and Hamlet (Lucas Hall) engage in a delightful pirate battle. Thankfully, Noble brought back several actors from the 2007 Shakespeare Festival production of “Hamlet.” Hall reprises his interpretation of Hamlet quite well and Charles Janasz has uproarious moments as the bumbling Polonius. These casting choices offer plenty of nostalgia for loyal attendees of The Old Globe. As a new addition, Sherman Howard is impressive as The Player. Having some of the funniest prose, he’s the mysterious leader of a troupe of actors: The Tragedians. While most of the running time is spent only with Lavelle and Whittaker; they’re both so entertaining that their chemistry makes the production pass by quickly. Lavelle gives a strong comedic

performance as Rosencrantz with plenty of circus-style clowning. He does a remarkable job combining naïveté with endearing platonic love for his buddy, Guildenstern. Whittaker is stellar as Guildenstern, the smarter of the duo. The reliably versatile actor ranges from deadpan delivery to being very intense. Witnessing Whittaker’s

dark dialogue about death is one of the bleaker elements of the play. Quirky and offbeat, Stoppard’s modern classic is a must-see for fans of “Hamlet,” as well as those that are not as enamored with the text. Tickets and information about “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” can be found at theoldglobe.org.

Rosencrantz (Jay Whittaker) and Guildenstern (Jay Whittaker) do not know whether to trust a strange and mysterious actor who is known as The Player (Sherman Howard). courtesy of michael lamont


10 SPORTS

MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2013

#aztecswsoccer

SDSU loses to USC, beats Gaels terence chin Staff writer

Yesterday, the No. 11 San Diego State women’s soccer team defeated Saint Mary’s College 1-0 in its first home game win of the season, giving the Aztecs a season record of 1-1-0 overall. Senior forward Jensen Skinner scored the winning goal for the Aztecs in the 53rd minute of the game. SDSU took its first loss of the season last Friday when the Aztecs traveled to the University of San Diego to face off against the University of Southern California for its season opener. However, the Trojans got the best of the Aztecs and went on to defeat SDSU 4-1. Senior forward Elizabeth Eddy

scored the first goal of the season for USC in the 7th minute creating a 1-0 lead for the Trojans at the end of the first half. It didn’t get any better in the second half for SDSU, as USC tacked on two more goals by freshman forward Kayla Mills and sophomore midfielder Jamie Fink. The Aztecs got on the board with their first goal of the season in the 69th minute when junior forward Hannah Keane scored on a 20yard shot, but it was too late for SDSU.

Eddy scored the final goal of the game for the Trojans to seal the win. The Aztecs received their first loss of the season. On Aug. 15 in their only preseason exhibition game at California State University Fullerton, the Aztecs couldn’t find the net, nor could the Titans. SDSU’s newcomer Katie Perry, a midfielder and transfer student from Texas A&M, led the Aztecs with four shot attempts while sophomore defender Tiffany Geer added one. The Aztecs were outshot 16-5 by the Titans, but still managed to protect their net holding a 9-1 advantage in saves. The game ended in a 0-0 draw. The expectations have risen on

Montezuma Mesa for the SDSU women’s soccer team. A day before the exhibition game, the Lady Aztecs were easily picked to win the Mountain West Conference by the league’s 11 coaches after receiving nine out of 11 first place votes. New Mexico and UNLV were the two other schools’ that received first place votes from the 11 coaches in the MWC. Last season, the Aztecs finished an overall record of 21-2-1 capturing the MWC title and a trip to the NCAA Tournament third round, which marked the best season for women’s soccer in SDSU school history. At 5 p.m. this Friday, SDSU will travel to East Lansing, Mich. to play against Michigan State.

#Aztecfootball

Aztec football nears matthew bain staff writer

There’s a countdown clock on GoAztecs. com that shows the days, hours, minutes, and seconds until the football season kicks off. Confession: I check that every day. I’m thrilled for what could be a big year for San Diego State football. The Aztecs could really catapult themselves forward with success in their very difficult 2013 schedule. SDSU will play the USA Today Coaches Poll’s No. 2 Ohio State, No. 19 Boise State, and No. 25 Oregon State universities. The Aztecs will also play Fresno State and San Jose State universities, both of which received votes to be in the Coaches Poll’s Top 25. What’s more is the Mountain West Conference reached a deal with ESPN last year, so many of the Aztecs’ big games will be on the most popular sports network in the country. SDSU has a chance to take on the challenging 2013 football season with the

momentum it’s developed throughout the past three years and come out at the end with both feet planted in the national spotlight and the BCS Top 25 rankings.

The MWC West Division will come down to SDSU and Fresno State. This Saturday Aztecs play Eastern Illinois at Qualcomm Stadium. monica linzmeier, Photo Editor

The MWC looks a lot different this year with the addition of the Spartans and the Aggies. The conference also now consists of two six-team divisions: the West and Mountain divisions. SDSU plays in the West Division with Fresno State, San Jose State, University of Nevada, University of Nevada at Las Vegas, and University of Hawaii’. In the MW media day preseason poll,

the Aztecs were picked to finish second in the West Division of the 2013 MW west preseason poll, behind Fresno State. I definitely agree with one idea in the preseason poll- the MWC West Division will come down to SDSU and Fresno State. In fact, it will most likely come down to Oct. 26, when Fresno State comes to Qualcomm Stadium. It’s difficult for me to predict which team

will take first place. SDSU has the major advantage in running with junior running back Adam Muema. But the Bulldogs have an advantage in the passing game with preseason MW Offensive Player of the Year, senior quarterback Derek Carr. Fresno State also has the edge on defense as it returns three starting defensive See football, P11


SPORTS

MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2013

Continued from P10

linemen and three starting defensive backs. I would give SDSU the wild card though, because the game is being played in San Diego, and Carr will be without last year’s Fresno State running back Robbie Rouse. However, I have to give the overall edge to the Bulldogns. My preseason top three for the MWC West Division is as follows: 1. Fresno State: 10-2 (7-1 MWC) 2. San Diego State: 9-3 (7-1 MWC) 3. San Jose State: 8-4 (5-3 MWC) Every game will be exciting this year, but the games you should keep your eye out for are: Sept. 7: SDSU travels to Columbus, Ohio to play the college football powerhouse the Buckeyes. This game will be aired on ABC and ESPN2. A good performance in

2013 Aztec football season. Here are the this game would do wonders for SDSU’s players to watch in those big games: season. Junior running back Adam Muema: Oct. 26: Muema dazzled fans and sports analysts The Bulldogs come to town. Expect last year with his 1,458 rushing yards and a high octane show of two great college 16 touchdowns. Muema’s agility and foot programs going at it. This will be a huge speed make defenders look like peewee game for the Aztecs’ season. I wish I could players. get my ticket now- I don’t want to miss it. This will be his first year Nov. 23: starting the season as Boise State the go-to guy, and I travels down to expect for this member sunny Southern This will be a huge California to of the Maxwell Award game for the Aztecs’ exact revenge watch list to thrive in season. I wish I could that position. on the Aztecs get my ticket now, I Junior linebacker Jake for beating the Fely: Broncos in Boise dont want to miss it. Many people, last year. This including myself, is starting to believed that Fely develop into a would be named the preseason MWC good old-fashioned rivalry. Defensive Player of the Year. Unfortunately Big games are scattered throughout the

11

that wasn’t the case, but believe me when I say Fely will definitely change minds by the end of the year. Known as a premium shutdown defender, I look for Fely to close in on 100 tackles this season and be a leader on the field. Senior defensive back Nat Berhe: SDSU’s secondary is going to be very young this year. That means SDSU’s pass defense will have a lot of pressure from its opponents. Look for Berhe, who is a member of the Jim Thorpe Award Watch List and one of three recently named team captains, to increase his numbers from last year, lead the team in interceptions and punish opposing offenses for trying to go after the secondary. That’s it. No need for more furious writing on the laptop. Now, it’s time for Aztec football.

CLASSIFIEDS announcements

DOBUSINESS.

Advertising and Marketing Majors: Looking to build your portfolio? Attend a Plan, Pitch, Promote (P3) Conference at the MARCC Academy. Enter: “Win a Conference Sweepstakes” www.themarccacademy.com __________________________________

8/22crosswordssolution

Now hiring for Account Executives. Call 619.594.6977 for more info.

8/22sudokusolution

FOOTBALL HOME OPENER SATURDAY VS. EASTERN ILLINOIS AT 5PM FOLLOWED BY THE KGB SKYSHOW

STUDENT TAILGATE IN K-2

3:00PM-4:30PM | FEATURING DJ ERIC LOVE FREE ADMISSION WITH STUDENT ID 1ST 1,500 STUDENTS RECEIVE A FREE SHIRT FREE FOOD, GAMES AND PRIZES!

disclaimer

The Daily Aztec does not endorse or support and has no affiliation with the products or services offered in the Classifieds section.


12 THE BACK PAGE

MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2013

#youstaysassy

Perks of being a “Super Senior” You Stay sassy

I never thought I’d see the day where I would become a “super senior.” In addition to the 13 consecutive years of schooling from preschool to 12th grade, I am starting my 11th semester of college. Oh god, 11th? Putting it into writing makes it sound way more tragic than I thought. Withhold your judgment. How many semesters have you taken? Huh? I’m looking at you, 40-year-old in my “Principles of Media Studies” class. Yeah, that’s what I thought. “Super senior,” while the name sounds a lot more glamorous than it is, there are little-to-no actual perks that come along with the title. There are no sparkly shirts, no uniform, no scepter and no parade of accomplishment. You graduate after all your friends do, you get to see freshmen running around school and wonder if perhaps there was a jailbreak at the local elementary school and, my personal favorite, you get to be stuck in a classroom filled with people that take three full hourand-45-minute class periods just to finish asking questions about the details of the syllabus. I mean, what part of “the final is not cumulative” don’t you understand? The only upside I can even fathom is that after getting to know the campus pretty well, you learn some things. You learn that there are better and worse times to visit Olive Oil organic Cafe for a $9 grilled cheese (better times being approximately 30 total minutes through the day where there isn’t a line; worse times being the remaining 23 1/2 where the line wraps around into the depressingly small U.S. Bank line). You

Hayley Rafner Staff writer

learn that scheduling late classes is almost pointless, since you have to get to school by 8 a.m. to get a parking spot (or you wise up during your last semester and finally decide to take advantage of the gorgeously mod-looking trolley station on one side of campus and stroll on the scene at noon without having to stalk departing students to steal their parking spots). You learn that if you have a class in College Square it is so far out of the way from everything that the class is worth dropping until you can take it in a more ideal location. You learn to avoid the entire upper part of campus

...You’re going to miss all the things you spent 11 semesters complaining about.

during rush week. You learn that even though the farmers market is super cool, that bringing cash is the only way to enjoy pad thai. You learn that San Diego really does have the best weather, and even if you think it’s going to rain one day, you should just wear a light hoodie because you’re going to end up being responsible for your umbrella all day, and it becomes a hassle. You learn that picking up The Koala is the biggest mistake you’ll make all day because it really just infuriates you to no end that this kind of thing actually exists (but you still totally respect it and think it’s a legitimate newspaper because you’re afraid you’ll end up as part of its jokes and you’re really just way too sensitive to

words

67 Murder mystery staple 68 Russian fighters 69 British city on the River Aire

even handle anything like that). You learn that no matter how long you’ve watched it being built, the new Aztec Student Union will never get finished. You learn that the bookstore is a magical fairy land in which you can get lost for hours in a sea of sweatpants and ballpoint pens. You learn that no matter how many sporting events you tell yourself you’re going to go to, you still end up going to zero. You learn that the Aztec Recreation Center is no place for amateurs, only fully made-up sorority girls and meatheads. You learn that no matter how far away you moved from home, you will still run into someone from high school even though you moved to San Diego first and this is your town, not theirs. Then you slowly start to realize that you’ve experienced your (hopefully) last first day of school. You start to realize that you’re going to miss all the things you spent 11 semesters complaining about. You realize your parents aren’t going to help you out financially once you graduate. You realize that you’re going to have to get a real job and probably work somewhere you hate for a while just to get where you want to be. You realize that it was all really easy to whine about, but school is going to soon be a thing of the past. But don’t worry, because I’m sure the majority of you reading this aren’t anywhere near your “super senior” status, and most of you probably won’t even see it in your lifetime. It’s a tough position. It’s a daily struggle. But between elementary, middle and high school, community college, and a university, it’s all just something funny you can talk about in the book you write someday later on.

Across

1 33-Across topper 6 Points (at) 10 Trucker on a radio 14 Former “Idol” judge Abdul 15 Tie in chess 16 Cosmo competitor 17 Marx Brothers shenanigan 18 Topnotch 19 Sugar bowl block 20 Long-eyed stitching tool 23 Student’s Web address ending 24 One on the other side 25 Right on time 28 Finally registered, mentally 30 __ cheese dressing 32 Dinghy mover 33 Dairy Queen order

36 “The __ Baltimore”: Lanford Wilson play 39 “__ Wiedersehen” 40 Picnic spoilers 41 Proverbial backbreaker 46 Main element in pewter 47 Dance in a pit 48 Soak up 52 Promotional theater display item 54 Martini order 55 Theology subj. 56 Maine’s nickname, and a hint to the ends of 20-, 33and 41-Across 60 Army vehicle 62 “I figured it out!” cries 63 Craze 64 Gets older 65 Army status 66 Rags-to-riches author Horatio

Aquaplex

Pool Party Friday

Aug. 30 12-4pm DUNK TANK

FREE PIZZA Open House

SDSU Red ID Required

No Outside Beverages

aztecaquaplex.sdsu.edu

thefuture Today’s Birthday (8/26/13) - Fun and work top your priority list this year. Your career’s been expanding, and it’s harvest time; preserve the fruits of your labors. Stash a nice percentage. Partnerships flower with regular love and attention. New ones open unimagined doors. Romance infuses the year as you connect deeply. HOW IT WORKS: 10 is good, 1 is bad.

Aries (March 21 - April 19) - Today is an 8 - Watch out for work-related accidents or misunderstandings. Allow your roots to be shaken and still issue new growth. Resolve conflicts as they sprout, and collect the fruits of your labor.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is an 8 - Stop and think for a minute. If you can’t get what you need close to home, look farther away. The more difficult the challenge, the more rewarding the effort. Your team backs you up.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 6 - Watch the competition. Travel beckons, but expect the unexpected. Keep your finances and home in order. If you move quickly, you can make a big profit. Practice looking at things in a new light. Romance is as close as your backyard. Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today

is a 6 - Take one step at a time right now, stopping to work out kinks along the way. Be as practical as circumstances allow. Don’t be afraid to ask friends for help. Listening is key.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 6 It’s a beautiful moment for love, despite obstacles. The more you overcome, the better you feel. Don’t be afraid of mistakes ... the best stories come from risks taken, not the ones avoided.

numbers

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a

7 - Things may be starting to cool down, but you like it hot right now. There are so many adventures to be had. Discover and release an old pretense for new freedom. Weed the garden.

Down

1 Black suit 2 Ottawa’s country 3 Beat in a race 4 “thirtysomething” actor Ken 5 World’s largest ocean 6 “Time is money,” e.g. 7 Golfer’s selection 8 Lion’s tresses 9 Popeye’s kid 10 Violin cousin 11 Song title words before “You saw me standing alone” 12 Horror film street 13 Workout unit 21 Nada 22 Beaten instrument 26 Breathe after sprinting 27 Yves’s “very” 29 Pass idly, as time 30 Hair neatener 31 Exited 34 Sylvester and Garfield 35 Cornfield cries 36 Internet address opening 37 Cincinnati’s home 38 State-of-the-art 1970s bike 42 Church agreement 43 Pitcher’s problem 44 Hard to find 45 Totally dreadful 49 Autumn color 50 Tightened, as shoelaces 51 Dims with tears, as one’s vision 53 A bit too happy at happy hour? 54 Office workplaces 57 Spicy cuisine 58 Jingled 59 “A __ of Two Cities” 60 Fighter’s punch 61 Self-regard

Aztec

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 6 - Choose love. You’re gaining wisdom. Be meticulous but not picky. Learn a new skill from a teammate. Bring your best game. Exceed expectations. Ignore critics. Celebrate by relaxing with someone special.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 7 - Arrange priorities. Call if you’ll be late. Find what you need nearby. Gain more than expected, with a bonus. Take care not to provoke jealousies. It’s not a good time to expand or travel. HOW TO PLAY: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box contains every digit 1 to 9. Difficulty Level:

2/4

ALL SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.THEDAILYAZTEC.COM or IN OUR NEXT ISSUE’S CLASSIFIEDS CROSSWORDS, SUDOKU, AND HOROSCOPES COURTESY OF TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC., ©2013.

disclaimer

The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Aztec. Express your concerns by emailing letters@thedailyaztec.com

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) -

Today is an 8 - Accept full responsibility, as you pause and reflect. Temporary confusion distracts. Stick to your point. Replace or repair something broken. Give up something you don’t need to hold on to anymore. There’s good news.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 6 - Keep enough on hand without wasting money. Use your own good judgment. If befuddled, wait it out. It’s a tough job, but somebody has to do it. Prepare for some rest and relaxation. Ah, love! Share some. Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 5 - Celebrate your love openly. Add romantic touches at home, like flowers or dramatic lighting. Buy only what you truly need. Take a practical financial route. Provide motivation and the perfect setting.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 6 - Think outside your safety zone. Advance to the next level. Be the best. A female has the skinny. A slight disagreement’s no big deal. There’s more work coming in. Accept constructive criticism.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.