The Northern Light November 5, 2013 Issue

THENORTHERNLIGHT NOVEMBER 5, 2013

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THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG

UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE

SPORTS

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Morgan Hooe: Young prospect already making noise

“Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” 20th anniversary

El Dia de Muertos en Alaska

Day of the Dead celebration holds cultural significance for many Alaska residents

PHOTO BY DAN DUQUE

Staying on track

Christian Lissette Aguilera Molina in traditional Dia de Muertos face paint. The traditional idea behind the paint is to honor death — those who carry it also become it.

Encouraging students to finish in 4

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2013-14 women’s basketball preview

By Thomas McIntyre

advantage of it.

Newcomers contribute

sports@thenorthernlight.org Last week’s issue covered the men’s team and the X-factors that could decide their season. This week, it’s the women’s turn.

The 2013-14 Seawolf women’s basketball team is facing the ultimate challenge for college athletic programs: replacing star graduates. For the ‘Wolves, it’s guard Sasha King and forward Alysa Horn.

The pair accounted for nearly 30 points per game, which was almost half of the team’s average output last year. They also led the unit in rebounding, assists, blocks, steals, free throws made and three pointers made.

The hole King and Horn left is as big as the stack of GNAC accolades they racked up during their time at UAA. A transition period has commenced.

The next season could go in many directions.

But for it to take the ideal path, these are the three pillars that need to be raised.

Burns breaks out

By Suhaila Brunelle

news@thenorthernlight.org On Oct. 28, the University of Alaska Stay on Track campaign launched a photo contest. Students who upload a photo of how many years it will take to finish their degrees will be entered to win two free Alaska Airline tickets. The Stay on Track campaign is a system-wide effort created to get students graduated on time.

Ashleigh Gianes of the New Student Orientation office says, “A good majority of freshmen we have are taking a 15-credit load. I have not seen many part-time students, but more students are getting engaged with the Stay on Track campaign and taking 15 credits so they can graduate on time.”

Throughout the UA system, 30 credits per year is considered to be the “real” full time. An associate degree requires at least 60 credit hours, and a bachelor’s degree requires a minimum of 120 hours.

So, a student needs to have completed 30 credits to be considered a sophomore, and in order to graduate a student must complete 120155 credits. The credits a student takes must count toward his or her degree.

There are specific things a student can do in order to stay on track. The first thing is to choose a major early. If a student is not sure what he or she would like to major in, there is some leeway and time to explore a degree field. For a student working toward a bachelor’s degree, a major should be chosen by his or her third semester.

Choosing a major early helps students avoid taking classes that may not be necessary for their chosen fields of study.

Once a degree is chosen, be sure to know the requirements of that degree. DegreeWorks is a degree auditing system that can help students track academic progress and is accessible through UAon-

SEE FINISH

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Senior forward Kylie Burns spent the previous year making plays in the shadows of King and Horn. Now she has an opportunity to cast her own.

Burns potential has already been recognized, as she was one of the 15 ball players to land on the GNAC Women’s Basketball Preseason AllConference team.

The Kansas City product contributed 10.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game as a junior. In many ways, she was Alysa Horn Lite. The two possess an inside and outside threat, and understand the art of rebounding.

Her most intriguing stat last year was 74 — that’s the number of times she got to the free throw line. It was just four less than King. Like they teach in Basketball 101: A player who can get to the charity stripe often is extremely valuable.

Burns is used to being a part of the first line, and playing big-time minutes. It’s the increased workload that will impact her game. If she breaks out, UAA will have a new star.

UAA has brought in a group of four freshmen to the team this year. Sierra Afoa and Alysha Devine make up the set of forwards, while Melissa Castle and Kiki Robertson make up the tandem of guards.

Afoa and Devine are both Alaska bred. Afoa played her high school basketball in Anchorage at Dimond, and Devine hooped for Wasilla High School.

Afoa is a lefty who comes from a juggernaut of female hoops. She was on a Dimond team that notched four straight top-four finishes at the 4A State Tournament. She also capped her high school career by winning the Cook Inlet Conference MVP award.

Devine went off in 2012-13. Her 11.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.0 steals and 2.3 assists were good enough to net the Alaska Gatorade Player of the Year award. Like Afoa, she learned to win in high school. Wasilla ended last year at 30-0 and won its third 4A State title in a row.

The ‘Wolves went to the Alaska well for a third time, recruiting Castle all the way from Craig High School. She’s a decorated guard who’s shown up on the big stage, having earned back-to-back 3A All-State Tournament Team selections.

Robertson hails from Honolulu. She’s a scoring guard who can play on the other end just as well.

She balanced out up her 19.9 points per game as a junior and 14.6 points per game as a senior by winning Defensive Player of the Year in 2012-13.

The Seawolves could benefit from one of these young guns popping and having a standout rookie campaign. But that’s only a single piece of the puzzle. They’ll need all these pillars to stand in order to produce another winning season.

The women open the season Saturday night against Western New Mexico. Tip is at 4 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Sports Complex.

The three-ball

More teachings from Basketball 101: The threepoint line is the great equalizer. Small schools chop down giants in March thanks to the deep ball. It is one the few things that, when done well, can close the talent gap at a rapid pace.

The Seawolves are going to play teams with stronger rosters. An effective deep attack could be the difference maker they need in those matchups.

Head coach Ryan McCarthy is not behind the curve when it comes to the three-point shot. An open three (especially from the corner) is the second best shot in the game next to a layup. The Seawolves pulled from long-range 643 times last year — that was the second-highest in the GNAC. With King out of the door, Burns and sophomore guards Jenna Buchanan and Jessica Madison are the most proven distance shooters. They’re three players who could get the green light if McCarthy chooses to give it.

There’s no aversion to letting it fly in this program. It’s not relying on the three-ball; it’s taking

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PHOTO COURTESY OF GOSEAWOLVES.COM

Seawolf senior forward Kylie Burns landed on the GNAC Women’s Basketball Preseason All-Conference team.

thenorthernlight.org

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02 NEWS

Prioritization: A review under review

By Evan Erickson

eerickson@thenorthernlight.org Faculty and administration are working to iron out the kinks in the juggernaut that is prioritization. Many details of the massive assessment of programs and services at UAA are still undecided, but several decisions have been reached following motions passed by the Faculty Senate.

The first motion passed at the Oct. 4 Faculty Senate meeting was a motion to reconsider the quintile ranking system. The UAA website still reads, “all quintiles must contain an equal number of programs,” meaning 20 percent of all programs at UAA would find themselves in quintile five, “subject to further review, consider for reduction or phase out.”

The University of Guelph in Ontario released an 81-page report last month detailing the findings of their own prioritization process, which also relied on a quintile ranking system. The report finds many undergraduate programs ranked poorly due to “lack of demand and difficulty demonstrating quality outcomes” and that “minors tended to score poorly, with 80 percent of minors scoring in the 4th and 5th quintile.”

A progress report released by UAA’s Academic Task Force last Friday reads, “Several decisions have been made in regards to changing the quintile system and those decisions will be explained soon.”

The second motion filed by Faculty Senate was a request to open program prioritization meetings to members of the university. The University of Alaska is a public entity subject to the Alaska Open Meetings Act based on a 1983 Alaska Supreme Court ruling, but exceptions were later added.

UAA Faculty Senator Clayton Trotter, who made the motion concerning transparency, says prioritization meetings may be protected under

a clause that exempts “meetings of an employee group established by policy of the Board of Regents of the University of Alaska or held while acting in an advisory capacity to the Board of Regents.”

“I don’t understand why they feel they need to do this in secret. If they want to have an executive session to deliberate, that makes sense,” Trotter said.

Academic Task Force co-chairs responded at last Friday’s Faculty Senate that weekly notes and monthly progress reports of task force meetings will be made available. A prioritization blog is also being created for faculty and staff to voice their many concerns.

The third motion deals with the prioritization timeline and recommends that faculty be given until December 2014 to complete academic templates. Both Chancellor Tom Case and Provost Elisha Baker disapproved it in an advisory capacity.

Baker, who was out of town, responded in a letter also released last Friday that included a draft of the post prioritization process. The draft process lists May 9, 2014, as the release date for academic task force’s report. The draft includes a reconsideration process beginning August 2014 for programs that fall into the 5th quintile, but the chancellor is to release the final report by Jan. 30, 2015.

The draft recommends that UAA’s Program, Budget and Administration Committee “integrates prioritization recommendations and chancellor’s decisions into budget process ... PBAC investment must be guided by the prioritization rankings without exception (no consideration for investment if not so prioritized).”

The draft goes on to recommend program prioritization every five years in replacement of the current program review process.

Provost Baker’s letter represents some of the first information made public concerning how the findings of program prioritization might be implemented.

FINISH: Getting it done C ontinued

from

C over

line. Advising can also help students stay on track. Every degree program has advisers, so once a major has been chosen, be sure to meet with an adviser at least once a semester. Meeting with an adviser to schedule classes will ensure each enrolled credit will count toward a student’s enrolled degree.

If this seems like a lot, there are resources for students who are struggling to meet the requirements of their courses. Gaines suggests that all new students go through New Student Orientation. One of those resources is the Learning Resource Center, which offers a variety of tutors made available through student fees.

Gaines also says if the tutors in the Learning Resource Center are not enough, the New Student Orientation Office can help students find more specialized tutors or connect with clubs specifically designed for tutoring.

Working less and making school a priority is a sure way to graduate on time. However, if working less is not an option, then take advantage of summer courses. At UAA, there are two five-week sessions and one 10-week session per summer. Students who are behind can catch up on credits by enrolling during the summer. Those who will be away from campus or traveling during the summer can take online distance learning courses during this time as well. Falling behind in credits can add up to extra time and money spent in university.

Wolf Pack leaders are other resources offered to students through the New Student Orientation Office.

A Wolf Pack leader is a fellow student who knows his or her way around the UAA system. They will check up on new students and offer them advice or direct them to resources when needed. This help is vital to staying on track, because it’s been proven that students who are more engaged on campus are more likely to graduate.

For more information about how to stay on track, visit the Stay on Track website at http://www.alaska. edu/stayontrack. New students can contact the New Student Orientation office at 907-786-1224.

AROUND ANCHORAGE

PHOTOS BY DAN DUQUE

Laura Comer of Beyond Coal speaks for Alaska Pacific University’s SAVE club about the exportation of coal outside Alaska state lines.

Senator Mark Begich addresses Boy Scouts Oct. 27 about the need for their involvement in public services.

THENORTHERNLIGHT Tuesday, November 5, 2013

NEWS BRIEFS

Shooting at Los Angeles International Airport: Paul Ciancia opened fire Friday at Los Angeles International Airport, killing a Transportation Security Administration officer and wounding Brian Ludmer, who remains in fair condition at the UCLA Medical Center. Ciancia was carrying five magazines of ammunition and a note that referred to the New World Order and anti-government claims. Ciancia has been federally charged with the murder of a federal officer and commission of violence in an international airport, and he could face the death penalty.

Suicidal father leads to daughter’s burned body A Georgia father called 911 saying his daughter was dead and he was suicidal. Upon arrival, the father pointed first responders to a trashcan, in which they found the burned body of a girl around 10 years of age. The father claimed his daughter drank some kind of chemical. The girl’s father and stepmother were taken into custody and charged with felony murder, first-degree cruelty to children and concealing a body.

Honda minivans recalled for brake malfunction Honda is recalling 344,000 Odyssey minivans for a sensor issue that causes the vans to brake on their own. The recall is for vans from 20072008. No accidents or deaths have been reported due to the issue. The resolution is to install a new sensor, but the sensors won’t be available until 2014. Honda suggests starting the van with the wheels facing forward. If the braking sensation occurs to tap the brake pedal, which will stop the action.

News briefs compiled by Suhaila Brunelle

WEEKLY BUZZ

New underwater tunnel links Europe and Asia Europe and Asia are now connected through an underground railway tunnel called the Marmaray Link. The tunnel is the first installment in a $4.5 billion project that includes a new airport, a parallel canal for the Bosphorus river and a third suspension bridge began in 2004. However, many archeological discoveries made during the construction delayed the project.

During construction, 8,500 new artifacts were discovered. The artifacts traced Istanbul’s history back 8,500 years — 2,500 years earlier than ever before.

Roman sculpture found in England A Roman sculpture was found in England last week at a site slated to be the home of a new hotel. The sculpture is of an eagle with a serpent firmly gripped in its hooked beak. The statue is carved of limestone and is 26 inches tall.

New animal species discovered Several new species of vertebrates were discovered this week in Australia’s Cape Melville mountain range. A leaf tail gecko, a gold colored skink and a brown potted yellow boulder dwelling frog. New species have also been discovered in the Amazon since 2010 — 400 to be exact — and include a monkey that purrs like a cat and a piranha that eats vegetables.

Assault victims told to wait until daytime Due to a shortage of sexual assault nurse examiners in Anchorage, rape victims are being told to wait until morning to proceed with the specialized exam. Alaska has the highest rate of sexual assault per capita with one in three women having been assaulted. Forensic exams after an assault are an important step in the collecting of evidence and convicting offenders.

Weekly Buzz compiled by Suhaila Brunelle

FEATURES

THENORTHERNLIGHT Tuesday, November 5, 2013

03

Celebrating the Day of the Dead in Alaska

By Nita Mauigoa

features@thenorthernlight.org Young Mexicans swirled around traditional altars built to welcome the spirits of their ancestors and deceased loved ones. Their faces were painted with skull-like images, symbolism echoing the sentiments of Mexican Nobel Prize-winning poet Octavio Paz: “The Mexican, in contrast, is familiar with death. (He) jokes about it, caresses it, sleeps with it, celebrates it. It is one of his favorite toys and his most steadfast love.”

Members of the Mexican community hosted El Dia de Muertos, the Day of the Dead, at the Northway Mall last weekend with traditional art, dance and music. Hundreds of visitors basked in the celebration.

El Dia de Muertos came to life in Alaska nine years ago when local Mexican artist Indra Arriaga, who is the founder of Green Bee Studios, set up a traditional altar in the Sunshine Mall. The celebration flourished through the years as various community members joined in and hosted events at venues such as the Out North Contemporary Art House.

“El Dia de Muertos is a tradition from the pre-Hispanic era. It belongs to the indigenous people of Mexico,” said Javier Abud-Osuna, a Mexican consul in Anchorage.

Abud-Osuna said the annual celebration, held from Nov. 1-2, honors family members and loved ones who have passed away. Millions of Mexicans spend the day in the cemetery, where they eat, drink, dance and share family stories. It is a peaceful, happy celebration. Abud-Osuna said sacred altars are built to welcome the spirits of the dead through special offerings, including favorite foods and items of those who have passed on.

Arriaga likened Dia de Muertos to Christmas because each family has their special way of celebrating. Just like a family Christmas tree, family altars are decorated with each family’s specific touch of love and meaning. She said tradition also varies by region.

Brenda Rodriguez, a recent graduate from UAA, recalled spending time with her family in the cemetery back home in Mexico and how it was a fun time for her. She said it was there where she learned the history of Dia de Muertos, which dates back more than 4,000 years ago.

Arriaga said in addition to the cultural aspect, there is a contemporary aspect, which is a political standpoint of the struggles the people are going through today.

Abud-Osuna and Arriaga say they hope to see future generations continue the tradition of El Dia de Muertos, even thousands of miles away from Mexico.

“I never met my great-grandmother, but I know stories about her, and I share them with my nieces and nephews,” Arriaga said. “It’s how you keep family history alive.”

The shrine and its meanings

Colorful paper cutouts: Union between life and death.

Votives and candles: Ascending of the spirit, symbol of love that guides souls and shrines.

Banquet: Celebrates the arrival of souls.

Little skulls: Made of sugar or chocolate, representing the departed in the family

Sahumerio with copal incense: The tradition from life to death. Also keeps evil spirits away.

Dish of salt: Purification for the soul so it is not corrupted.

Lime crosses on the floor: Represents the four cardinal points.

Flower path to the alter gate: To guide the souls to the offerings.

Toys: For the amusement of deceased children.

Flowers: White symbolizes the sky; yellow, the earth (Aztec marigold guides the spirits to this world); purple, mourning.

Bread of the dead: Represents the host’s generosity and the gift of the earth itself.

Glass of water: To quench the thirst for the souls and to strengthen them for their return.

Typical foods for the offerings: Rice, mole, candied pumpkin and seasonal fruits.

PHOTOS BY DAN DUQUE

The annual Day of the Dead celebration, held from Nov. 1-2, honors family members and loved ones who have passed away.

Dancer Savannah Melendez of the local Mexican dance group Xochiquetzal Tiqun.

Altars were set up Nov. 2 in the Northway Mall to honor family members.

It is still too early to celebrate some holidays

By Klax Zlubzecon

Translated by George Hyde Back in the early days of my friendship with George — that is to say, last month or so — he took me on a trip to Costco to run some errands. As he walked through the many aisles, I saw a bunch of nice, pretty, colorful lights surrounding festive animals and a fat man in a red and white coat. I asked in bewilderment what these wonderful things were, and George groaned and told me it was all about Christmas.

After that, I quickly grasped the concept. After all, we have our own special holiday dedicated to our slug gods.

And it’s cool that you guys have a celebration like that. So I asked why George GRAPHIC BY JENNA! ROOSDETT groaned at the question.

And then he told me. And then I groaned too.

Mind you, this was back in early September. As in, almost four months before Christmas. That’s a third of

the entire year.

George tells me Christmas advertising and marketing has slowly creeped earlier and earlier with each passing year, and that’s a phenomenon that pushes his buttons, so to speak. And I don’t know how long this has been going on, but it’s not really making me joyous, either.

Don’t get me wrong. Christmas sounds wonderful. Anything that spreads peace, love and goodwill toward others is certainly worth celebrating. But we don’t need to

spend more than three months celebrating it.

At this point, instead of the joyous holiday that it’s supposed to be, many see it as a hungry, ravenous marketing monster that is eating up other holidays. And now that it’s starting to nibble on Labor Day, people are starting to get unnerved.

For George, the earliest he allows himself to start decorating and preparing is around Black Friday. But even now, Black Friday is starting to creep back into Thanksgiving, like a reverse version of that chest-burster from “Alien.”

It’s no wonder you guys are calling it the “holiday season,” because at this point, it’s practically become a

full season in and of itself.

I worry about this because Christmas seems like such a wonderful time of year, and I don’t want it to be manipulated into the monster that it’s slowly becoming.

Yes, Christmas has always been a gigantic marketing opportunity since the turn of the 20th century, but it’s also been about much more than that. In this landscape of depressing events and collegiate studies, it helps to have one time of the year to celebrate love and hope.

But that time is growing and growing by the year, to the point where George starts seeing this stuff when the semester starts in the first place. It’s making consumers sick of Christmas. It’s tarnishing the image of not only one holiday, but several others that have been overshadowed.

It makes me really, really sad. A holiday that once captivated me and almost made me a believer in human hope has now been corrupted by big business, just like everything else. George and I are now depressed by a holiday that is supposed to inspire the exact opposite of depression. Of course, we’re going to be excited after Black Friday rolls around. But that excitement will be dampened. And it’s all because of that stupid Christmas display that’s been up at Costco since September.

I’d say the answer is just to ignore it, but not all people can. And anybody who gets depressed by Christmas depresses me and George as a result. So we have to change this somehow.

The answer is obvious: We have to stop advertising Christmas until late November, at the very least. But the numbskulls at Costco and Fred Meyer’s aren’t going to understand that. So what do we do?

We write them.

We tell them we’re sick of Christmas, and we won’t buy any of it until the time is right.

Consumers have a voice, and that voice is in our wallets. So I’m advocating to you: Avoid Christmas spending, and maybe we can save this holiday season... ...By not celebrating it. Because we’re apparently Grinches.

On that note, as I dictate this to George for him to type, he’s telling me that I might dig “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” so I guess I could check that out with him. In the meantime, here’s your regular message: RESISTANCE IS FUTILE. EMBRACE THE SEAWOLF SLUG.

05 FEATURES

Salvaging the best-laid plans

By Evan Dodd Contributor

If you’ve followed my last few columns (just nod and smile — I need this) then it’s becoming fairly obvious that I’m starting to panic.

Suddenly I’ve found myself on the back half of the four-year plan I’m expected to complete, and the pre-graduation panic is setting in. Halfway through mapping out my schedule for rhymes with spring semester I had a friend glance over my shoulder and incredulously ask, “What in the hell are you even majoring in?”

It’s really a bit late in the game for my course schedule to look as ambiguous as it does. My DegreeWorks summary looks like incoherent ramblings, and I’ve recently awarded the title of “academic adviser” to the novelty Magic 8-Ball I got on vacation. These are dark times for my degree.

The mounting stress — at least this week’s edition of it ­— was brought on by the spring registration looming over the horizon.

Being a quasi-functional adult, I decided to plan my next semester early. Had I stopped at this point I might have felt very secure about my academic endeavors. Unfortunately, buzzing on a productivityhigh, I decided to map out my last two semesters as well.

Spoiler alert: The “fun” isn’t going to stop after those semesters.

As it turns out, earning an unrelated major, minor and last-minute medical certification is incredibly difficult to do in four years.

Especially when you consider that it took me three semesters to even figure out what I was doing here in the first place. Additionally, it seems that some of my “do or die” courses are only offered during certain semesters, and it doesn’t appear to be physically possible to complete them by spring of 2015 without the use of a Time Turner.

Thus far my spring schedule consists of applied calculus (because math and I have a tenuous relationship), environmental ethics (because only you can prevent forest fires) and a six-credit emergency medical technician course because somehow my crippling “Scrubs” addiction still affects my decision-making process — oh, and one yet-to-be-named economics course because I should probably occasionally take a class within my major.

Is this the most efficient and meaningful way to proceed through college? Of course not. This isn’t even close to being a reasonable four-year plan. Under ideal conditions I would have hit the ground running and pursued a cohesive degree program from day one.

Unfortunately that isn’t how life works. Plans change, priorities shift and some days you just have to miss important lectures in order to attend a 12-hour “Lost” marathon.

So this is the newest iteration of my college plan. In my mind, an EMT certificate essentially makes me Batman, minus the awesome crime fighting and plus the ability to use CPR as a pick-up line. Also it would be great to have the ability to save a person’s life if that opportunity ever arose. Basically I’ve come to terms with the notion that I’m going to have to spend an additional semester (or three) in order to graduate with all of these various accomplishments.

So if you’re trying to plan out next semester, pick a major, or even just set some abstract goals — do it with a grain of salt. The great philosopher Beuller once said, “Life moves pretty fast,” and I tend to agree. Even the best-laid plans will fall to pieces when the rules of the game suddenly shift. So build your schedule for next semester, and then leave it alone. Go do something that matters in the present and don’t stress about the long-term plan.

Believe me, no amount of worry and stress will help you to force the future to fit your plan. It just doesn’t work like that.

Trying to make your future unfold according to plan is like trying to sing along to a mix CD that keeps skipping — even your best efforts will invariably result in frustration and angry passengers.

Or something like that. Similes are hard.

The takeaway here is this: Have a short-term plan, have some long-term goals and expect to exactly none of them to work out the way you intended. So go plan your spring semester, expect it to change a few times before you actually attend any of those classes and then kick back and enjoy the last vestiges of sunlight for the year.

After all, it looks like we may be here for a while.

Orange

H OW I ROLL, I T ’S NO SECRE T.

A conduit for hidden talent

By Jacob Holley-Kline arts2@thenorthernlight.org

In classrooms all across the world, students are given the space to strut their intellectual stuff, but less often are they able to demonstrate their hidden talent.

“I’d love to show people my talent,” said early elementary education sophomore Megan Marquis. “I want to see the spirit this university has to offer.”

Marquis’ talents are diverse such as writing as a former Northern Light reporter and now singing with UAA’s Glee Club. She will present two of her talents at the upcoming Talent of Tomorrow event.

She will be singing and performing poetry.

“I was going to rollerblade artistically around the stage, but then they told me we need a waiver for that,” Marquis said.

Talent of Tomorrow will be providing a stage for UAA’s talented student body. It is being put on by Student Activities.

On Nov. 20, Talent of Tomorrow will take the place of Noon Music in the Student Union Cafeteria. All talents are welcome.

“We’re trying to get everyone included (in fine arts) on campus to show people what UAA has to offer,” said Matthew Glenn, Student Activities programming team member.

During Noon Music, musicians from around the Anchorage community perform while students eat and study. Talent of Tomorrow will open the stage up to musicians, poets, comedians and raconteurs alike.

“Last year, we had a former UAA student, Miles Scott, sing a cappella,” Glenn said. “His voice was amazing.”

The UAA Glee Club and jazz combos from the music department have performed both at Noon Music and Talent of Tomorrow in the past. Singers, bands and musical outfits of any kind independent of UAA are also welcome.

To be put on the roster, a prospective performer must fill out a form with Student Activities. The deadline is Nov. 13.

“Anyone who’s interested should just go on, because it’s a great opportunity,” Glenn said.

Talent of Tomorrow will be taking place from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Student Union South Cafeteria. Performers must arrive 20 minutes before show time. Talent of Tomorrow performer forms are available in the Student Activities office. Admission is free.

With a current WolfCard students, staff and faculty ride People Mover buses FREE with u-­pass.

343-­6543

P E O PL E M O V E R. O R G

06 A&E

THENORTHERNLIGHT Tuesday, November 5, 2013

ALBUM REVIEW

MOVIE REVIEW

‘Ender’s Game,’ a ‘Enter the Wu-Tang,’ faithful translation still locked and loaded

By George Hyde

gchyde@thenorthernlight.org

By Jacob Holley-Kline arts2@thenorthernlight.org

There was a day when “The Chronic” reigned supreme. Dr. Dre brought the synthesizer to hiphop and no West Coast club would be the same for years to come.

In the 80’s, socially conscious hip-hop, like De La Soul’s “3 Feet High and Rising” and A Tribe Called Quest’s “The Low End Theory,” dominated the rap landscape. Groups like N.W.A rose to prominence with “Straight Outta Compton” and two members from that group, Ice Cube and Dr. Dre, would find fame with critically and commercially acclaimed solo releases.

Stirring up the calm seas of hip-hop was the cyclone called “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).” The album will celebrate its 20th anniversary Nov. 9 and still today it stands as one of the best hip-hop LPs of all time. In the face of the status quo, the Wu-Tang Clan marched like a fiery rebellion to hip-hop’s storefronts and the music industry would never be the same.

The Wu-Tang Clan is a New York-based hardcore rap outfit known for their absurdly violent lyrics and haunting beats. Sporting a wildly diverse array of emcees, from the raconteur sensibility of Ghostface Killah to the unpredictable mania of Old Dirty Bastard, Wu-Tang Clan is one of the best rap groups in all of music.

“36 Chambers” is one of the fiercest albums in all of hip-hop. The energy is infectious. The record has seemingly infinite momentum. The opening track “Bring Da Ruckus” is the Clan’s mission statement. GZA sums it up best in the fourth verse, “You wanna bring it, so (expletive) it/Come on and bring the ruckus/And I provoke (expletive) to kick buckets.”

Each emcee bursts off the record with the unhinged intensity of a runaway train. On “WuTang Clan Ain’t Nothin’ to F’ With” lyrical technician Inspectah Deck raps, “My style carries like a pickup truck/Across the clear blue yonder/Seek the China Sea/I slam tracks like quarterbacks sacks from L.T.” But book ending the chest-pounding anthems are true-to-life coming-of-age tales like “C.R.E.A.M,” “Tearz” and “Can it be All So Simple.” On “So Simple,” Ghostface Killah raps about wanting to get ahead, but he concedes on the sec-

ond verse, “But for now, it just a big dream/Cause I find myself in the place where I’m last seen.”

Not only did “36 Chambers” redefine lyricism in hip-hop, it ushered in a new era of production.

Here the de facto leader of Wu-Tang, RZA, displayed his knack for idiosyncratic sampling and love for the Kung-Fu pulp of old.

It sounds like RZA made a point of using samples that no one else would ever think to use. The piano and drum breaks are sour and heavy hitting.

One of the two feature tracks, “Method Man,” comes in hard with a near dissonant piano sample and thick drum breaks. Method Man’s party time vocals add some needed levity to the otherwise aggressive atmosphere.

Choosing a single standout track is impossible.

Every song stands on its own whether it features one emcee or the lot of them. Unlike some outfits of today, every Clan emcee brings their own flavor to the album. Still, after dozens of listens, “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” sounds like a raised fist in the in a landscape of clasped hands, a statement impossible to ignore.

Album: “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” Artist: Wu-Tang Clan Release Date: Nov. 9, 1993 Label: Loud

GAME REVIEW

‘Deus Ex: Human Revolution’ improves with ‘Director’s Cut’

“Ender’s Game” as a film is difficult to discuss for fans of the original novel. It falls under the same conundrum the film adaptation of “Watchmen” fell under — the story is more or less directly translated into film, with little to no surprises for fans of the book.

For those who never read “Ender’s Game,” this is great, because it provides an easily digestible version of a fantastic, deconstructive story. But will fans of the book feel the same way?

The film tells the tale of Ender Wiggin (Asa Butterfield, “Hugo”), a young boy who, after displaying extraordinary battle and tactical philosophies, is admitted into Battle School for training for a war against insect-like aliens known as Formics. The story follows Ender as he continues to excel and eventually gains the leadership skills needed to fight the Formics.

The story remains a thoughtful and deconstructive take on the many sci-fi “bug war” tropes present in works such as this. It asks many questions that are left to the audience to answer. Arguments from many different sides are presented on a variety of different issues.

All of this is reinforced by some rather excellent acting. Butterfield’s performance as Ender is smart and strong, as the character is.

But like a child, he’s vulnerable. The performance adds dimension to his inner struggles, as do the performances of surrounding characters like Colonel Graff (Harrison Ford, “42”), who in particular is strong and fatherly but also overzealous at times.

The film is also a visual treat. The Battle School is almost like a character in and of itself, with light cascading all over it’s spacious exterior. Seeing the students fly in zero gravity inside this thing is truly a sight to behold.

Of course, the film isn’t a perfect, word-for-word translation of the novel (a few names and minor plot points were removed for the sake of brevity), but it hits the most important points, and it hits them spot-on. The problem with this is that those who enjoyed the novel won’t find anything new in this version, aside from maybe the spectacle of the effects. For new audiences, this is fantastic, as they can experience an abridged version of an incredible sci-fi tale, but those who love the book will leave the film wanting much more.

As a film adaptation of a well-known novel, that’s to be expected.

Those who love the book will always stand by it, and that’s fine.

They’ll appreciate the visuals and performances. For those looking to experience this work for the first time, however, “Ender’s Game” is a must-see.

Film: “Ender’s Game” Release Date: Nov. 11, 2013 Director: Gavin Hood Starring: Asa Butterfield, Harrison Ford

By George Hyde

gchyde@thenorthernlight.org In 2011, gamers were pleasantly surprised when “Deus Ex: Human Revolution” hit the scene.

It was flawed, but when put up against the limited games of the time — including the “Deus Ex” entry, “Invisible War,” that preceded it 10 years ago — it was far ahead of the curve in terms of freedom and scope. Now, Eidos Montreal has released a vastly improved version of the title, aptly called the “Director’s Cut,” which irons out the original release’s issues to make it the definitive version of the game.

For those new to the series, “Human Revolution” is a fantastic starting point. It’s not only a prequel to the incredible first entry, but also makes the gameplay concepts of the series simpler and more accessible without having it feel dumbed down.

The title takes place in the year 2027, an era where the economy is dominated by transhuman augmentations such as bionic arms, limbs and eyes. When private cop Adam Jensen is critically injured, he is saved through these augmentations.

Reborn — and with a higher corporate security level — he must unravel several conspiracies and try to answer the ethical and philosophical questions regarding humanity’s evolution.

The game’s world is dominated by the theme of transhumanism, and players see its effects everywhere — most notably in the world’s economy, where the poor cannot afford augmentations and are left biologically inferior to those who can afford them. The game asks very tough and difficult questions about this theme and leaves them to

be answered by the players themselves.

The gameplay is equally wide open, as any “Deus Ex” game should be. If a player can think of a way around a problem, it’s usually possible within reason. Players can go in with guns blazing, or they can sneak past guards, or they can hack into security, or they can talk and reason with higher-ups to avoid a conflict altogether. Possibilities often seem endless.

In earlier versions of the game, this openness was broken by the boss battles, which required a single method that often didn’t cater to a player’s style of play. They were easily the game’s biggest flaws when it was initially released. However, with “Director’s Cut,” players now have the same freedom endowed to them in normal gameplay.

The “Director’s Cut” has also made minor tweaks to artificial intelligence and graphic fidelity, pushing every system that it’s available on to the limits. In addition, there is now added functionality for second screens, be that the controller on Wii U, the Vita for PS3 or tablets for 360 and PC. All of these tweaks add more depth to a game that’s already incredibly deep in the first place.

If you haven’t played “Human Revolution,” or any “Deus Ex” game for that matter, this purchase should be automatic. Every initial problem with the release has been ironed out, and for that reason it comes as absolutely recommended.

Game: “Deus Ex: Human Revolution: Director’s Cut” Developer: Eidos Montreal Platform: Wii U, PS3, 360, PC Genre: RPG

07 A&E

THENORTHERNLIGHT Tuesday, November 5, 2013

November movie preview

MOVIE PREVIEW COMPILED BY KELLY IRELAND

“Dallas Buyers Club”

“Ender’s Game”

“Last Vegas”

“Big Sur”

This film is inspired by the true story of Ron Woodroof (Matthew McConaughey, “Magic Mike”), an electrician and rodeo cowboy. Ron after being diagnosed with HIV and being told he has a month to live, looks for alternative treatments in Mexico. After finding treatments that work and have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Woodroof begins selling the drugs to other HIV-positive patients in Texas.

Along the way he meets AIDS patient Rayon (Jared Leto, “Mr. Nobody”), a transgender woman who helps Woodroof sell the drugs.

In “Ender’s Game” the world comes under attack for the second time by an alien race known as the Formics. The International Military begins the search for a leader who becomes the last hope for the human race. The search is carried out at a battle school filled with promising children who could all potentially become the new leader. Here, Colonel Graff (Harrison Ford, “Paranoia”) discovers and trains Ender Wiggin (Asa Butterfield, “Hugo”), who eventually becomes the leader of the International Military.

60-something-year-olds Billy (Michael Douglas, “Behind the Candelabra”), Paddy (Robert De Niro, “The Family”), Archie (Morgan Freeman, “Now You See Me”) and Sam (Kevin Kline, “The Last of Robin Hood”) go to Vegas for their last and final bachelor party as Billy heads into marriage. They plan to make the trip a reliving of their younger days, but they soon learn they have aged and the city and their friendships have changed considerably since their last trip to Vegas.

Jack Kerouac (Jean-Marc Barr, “And They Call It Summer”), after letting fame from his novel, “On the Road,” go to his head, takes retreat in Big Sur, Calif.

In California he stays at a cabin, owned by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti (Anthony Edwards, “Flipped”). Not being able to handle the solitude, Kerouac returns to the city. He continues to visit the cabin for a break from fame. During his visits Kerouac begins a relationship with Billie (Kate Bosworth, “Movie 43”), his friend Neal Cassady’s (Josh Lucas, “Stolen”) mistress. He accidentally introduces Billie to Cassady’s wife, Carolyn (Radha Mitchell, “Silent Hill: Revelation 3-D”), and during his last trip to Big Sur Kerouac suffers a nervous breakdown.

“Diana”

“12 Years a Slave”

“Free Birds”

“Man of Tai Chi”

This story is inspired by the true story of Ron Woodroof (Matthew McConaughey, “Magic Mike”), an electrician and rodeo cowboy. Ron after being diagnosed with HIV and being told he has a month to live, looks for alternative treatments in Mexico. After finding treatments that work and have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Woodroof begins selling the drugs to other HIV-positive patients in Texas.

Along the way he meets AIDS patient Rayon (Jared Leto, “Mr. Nobody”), a transgender woman who helps Woodroof sell the drugs.

Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor, “Savannah”), a free African-American from the north in the days of slavery, gets kidnapped and sold into slave trade, leaving behind his successful life and family in New York. The film is based on a true story and follows Northup’s journey as a slave and fight for freedom. His slave owner (Michael Fassbender, “Prometheus”) and Canadian abolitionist (Brad Pitt, “World War Z”) make lasting impacts on Northup’s life both positively and negatively.

“Free Birds” is a children’s animated movie about two turkeys, Reggie (Owen Wilson, “You Are Here”) and Jake (Woody Harrelson, “Now You See Me”), from the opposite sides of town. Despite their differences, they come together to make sure no turkey will ever be eaten again as Thanksgiving dinner. The turkeys have a week to defeat the humans and ensure their safety from the dinner menu.

Chen Lin-Hu or the Man of Tai Chi (Tiger Hu Chen, “Kung Fu Hero”), a prodigy in Tai Chi, after learning his temple faces financial issues and may be torn down begins fighting in an underground fight club to raise funds. Going against his master’s wishes he continues to fight for the club. His employer Donaka Mark (Keanu Reeves, “Generation Um…”) begins asking more and more of Chen Lin-Hu, testing both his morals and beliefs. This film is Keanu Reeves’ directing debut.

“About Time”

“Thor: The Dark World”

“The Starving Games”

“The Book Thief”

21-year-old Tim (Domhnall Gleeson, “Black Mirror”) is told by his father (Bill Nighy, “The Hungry Corpse”) that the males of the family have the ability to time travel. Tim then takes advantage of this ability to make the moments with the love of his life, Mary (Rachel McAdams, “Passion”), perfect. Along the way he learns there are consequences for his time travel and that time always eventually catches up to him.

In “Thor: The Dark World,” the sequel to “Thor,” Thor (Chris Hemsworth, “Rush”) sets out on a journey to save the Nine Realms from Malekith (Christopher Eccleston, “Emily”). Thor must seek help from Jane Foster (Natalie Portman, “Illusions & Mirrors”) and Loki (Tom Hiddleston, “Out of Darkness”), who is imprisoned.

This film is a spoof on the highly popular Hunger Games. The movie features Kantmiss Evershot (Maiara Walsh, “Switched at Birth”), who is a participant in the 75th annual Starving Games. Participants fight for their lives as well as food. The movie has a lot of pop culture references and takes a whole new look at the “Hunger Games.”

In “The Book Thief,” Liesel Meminger (Sophie Nélisse, “Esimésac,”), an adopted girl living in WWII days, steals books and shares them with others. Her parents, Hans Hubermann (Geoffrey Rush, “The Best Offer”) and Rosa Hubermann (Emily Watson, “Belle”) also hide a Jewish refugee named Max Vandenburg (Ben Schnetzer, “Happy Town”). Her family must fight to stay together and ensure their rebellious acts aren’t discovered.

The movie is a film adaptation of Markus Zusak’s novel “The Book Thief” that is narrated by Death.

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MOVIE PREVIEW COMPILED BY KELLY IRELAND

“The Wolf of Wall Street”

“The Best Man Holiday”

“Charlie Countryman”

“The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”

In this true story, Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Great Gatsby”), a stockbroker from Wall Street, quickly rises to success. He then gets sucked into a world of corruption and crime with friends Mark Hanna (Mathew McConaughey, “Magic Mike”) and Donnie Azoff (Jonah Hill, “This Is the End”).

“The Best Man Holiday” is a tale of friends who get together for Christmas after 15 years of being apart. The groups reunion brings up many unsolved romances and competition between the friends, and they must work out their feelings. The film has Morris Chestnut, Taye Diggs, Regina Hall, Terrence Howard, Sanaa Lathan, Nia Long, Harold Perrineau, Monica Calhoun and Melissa De Sousa.

While on an airplane, the man sitting next to Charlie Countryman (Shia LaBeouf, “The Company You Keep”) dies. Charlie then meets the daughter of the man, Gabi Banyai (Evan Rachel Wood, “The Ides of March”), and falls madly in love with her. Gabi however has been marred to mob boss, Nigel (Mads Mikkelsen, “Move On”), who still believes Gabi is his own. Charlie must battle against Nigel in order to stay with Gabi. Rupert Grint also stars in this movie as Charlie’s friend Carl.

Victors of the 74th Hunger Games Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence, “Serena”) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson, “Epic”) get punished for their defiance in the 74th games and are placed in a victors-only Hunger Games, the 75th Hunger Games. The two’s defiance in the 74th games created a rebellion in the Districts of Panem. The capitol, in response to the rebellion, comes up with the victors-only Hunger Games to diminish hope and prove that revolution will not be permissible. This film is a sequel to “The Hunger Games.”

“Delivery Man”

“Nebraska”

“Black Nativity”

“Frozen”

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20 years ago, David Wozniak (Vince Vaughn, “The Internship”) gave samples of his semen to a semen bank and now is finding out he has fathered 533 kids. 142 of the children want to file a lawsuit to find out who their father is. David, who doesn’t feel he has a place in life, must decide if he wants to come forward to these kids. Receiving the profiles of all of his children, he looks to improve their lives as much as he can with the help of friend Brett (Chris Pratt, “Parks and Recreation”) and girlfriend Emma (Cobie Smulders, “How I Met Your Mother”).

Estranged father and son Woody (Bruce Dern, “Northern Borders”) and David Grant (Will Forte, “The Cleveland Show”) go on a cross-country trip to claim a million-dollar prize that Woody has won. David finds out about the prize when picking up Woody from the police after he is taken in for trying to hitchhike to Nebraska from Montana for the prize money. David believes the prize is a scam, but he agrees to take Woody to Nebraska to claim the million.

Single mother (Jennifer Hudson, “2013 MTV VMAs”) sends her son, Langston (Jacob Latimore, “The Finder”), to stay with estranged relatives in attempts to bring the family back together. Reverend Cornell (Forest Whitaker, “Out of the Furnace”) and Aretha Cobbs (Angela Bassett, “American Horror Story”) set rules that Langston doesn’t like, and he struggles with wishing he could go back home to his mom. His mother encourages him to stay, and Langston remains learning a lot about life and family. “Black Nativity” is an adaptation of Langston Hughes’ play, “Black Nativity.”

In the animated film, “Frozen,” Princess Elsa (Idina Menzel, “Glee”) discovers she has powers freeze things. She is ashamed of her skill, and when everyone finds out and ostracizes her for it she runs away to hide herself in solitude. The land becomes covered in snow and ice after Elsa leaves. Her sister, Anna (Kristen Bell, “Parks and Recreation”), with help of friend Kristoff (Jonathan Groff, “C.O.G.”), sets out after Elsa to make things right and to convince Elsa to control and be proud of her gift. Along the way they also meet the snowman Olaf (Josh Gad, “The Internship”) who helps the two in their quest.

“Homefront”

“Philomena”

“Oldboy”

“Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom”

Former DEA agent Phil Broker (Jason Statham, “Redemption”) moves his family to a quaint small town to escape his past and give his daughter a better life.

Phil soon finds he can’t escape, crossing paths with drug lord Gator (James Franco, “The Mindy Project”) after his daughter beats up the son of Gator’s girlfriend.

Philomena (Judi Dench, “Skyfall”), with help from political journalist Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan “Alan Patridge: Alpha Papa”), sets out to find her son who was taken from her as a teenager when she was forced to join a convent and keep her son a secret.

Joe Doucett (Josh Brolin, “Labor Day”), after being locked in solitary confinement for 20 years is released. Shortly after his release he learns his daughter has been kidnapped. Joe goes on a journey to find the man and save his daughter. Joe also seeks vengeance on those who have ruined his name while away. In addition, Joe tries to make amends with his daughter who thought he ran away and murdered a man. This film is an adaptation of a South Korean film of the same name.

This film follows the life of Nelson Mandela (Idris Elba, “Luther”) from childhood to his term as the first black president of South Africa. His rise to presidency was a challenge as he was dubbed an outlaw and a revolutionary for fighting against an apartheid government that separated people according to race.

Mandela was imprisoned for advocating his beliefs in democracy. Despite this, he was elected as president when the apartheid government was overthrown.

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09 A&E ‘No Big Heads’ opens in the Student Union Gallery

THENORTHERNLIGHT TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013

Annie Thorndike talks about her self-portrait, “Suspended,” entered into the 2013 “No Big Heads” competition featured in the Student Union Gallery.

UA Scholars reception

ALL PHOTOS BY DAN DUQUE

UA Scholar Ashley Thornton attends the reception for future students Nov. 1 in the Wendy Williamson Auditorium. UA Scholars are high school students who graduate in the top 10 percent of all graduating seniors in Alaska. Scholars are awarded an $11,000 scholarship to attend University of Alaska schools.

Chancellor Tom Case speaks to the students about their ongoing ambition and future achievements UA Scholar Renato Saturnino attends the afterparty of the UA Scholar reception in the Student Union. at UAA during the UA Scholars reception Nov. 1.

‘I Teach Out of Love’ presented by Sandy Klevin

Michael Burwell prepares with fellow cast members for the Bookstore reading of “I Teach Out of Love” on Oct. 28.

Michael Burwell performs with fellow cast members scenes from the play “I Teach Out of Love” concerning the life of poet Theodore Roethke.

TBA Theatre brings ‘Frankenstein’ to life

TBA’s “Frankenstein” is an adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic story

by Shane Mitchell.

“Frankenstein” is a tale of science and horror with plot twists left and right. TBA Theatre adapted the story for their theatrical production at Alaska Pacific University’s Grant Hall from Oct. 25-Nov. 3.

SPORTS SPORTS BRIEFS

UAA captures titles, earns Team of the Week

PORTLAND, Ore. — As Susan Tunui crossed the finish line Saturday morning at the Great Northwest Athletic Conference championship cross country meet in Monmouth, Ore., she defended her title as GNAC individual champion, and helped prove that Alaska Anchorage was worthy of being the sixth-ranked team in the NCAA. Teammates Ivy O’Guinn andJoyce Kipchumba were right behind Tanui to give the UAA women the team title, and less than an hour later, Isaac Kangogo, Victor Samoei and Dylan Anthony sprinted across the line in that order to give the eighth-ranked UAA men a team title as well.

“I was happy with the way our team ran,” head coach Michael Friess commented on the sweep of individual and team titles. “It was very stiff competition all around.”

For its impressive performance and second consecutive year sweeping the team titles at the championship meet, UAA cross country has been named the GNAC Team of the Week.

Anthony, who had been undefeated in races this fall, led for the majority of Saturday’s championship until he, Kangogo and Samoei launched into a dead sprint through the final stretch with no other runners closely behind.

“I’m really happy for Isaac, and Dylan for leading the charge for the squad,” Friess commented on Anthony’s effort leading the pack. “Western Washington came to play and almost got us, but that 1-2-3 sweep really came up big,” Friess added regarding the Seawolves’ narrow three-point win over second-place WWU. On the women’s side, Tanui outran the competition by more than six seconds, with O’Guinn placing third by less than one second and Kipchumba right behind in fourth.

“To get the team win, everyone on our team had to give their best, and I think that’s what makes our team strong,” Tanui commented on the victory.

“I got out fast, went out with my team and just tried to hang with my top two girls,” O’Guinn commented on her performance.

“The team approach was just to get out quickly and have fun with it, and it feels awesome to be with a group of girls that trains hard and really wants it.”

While not as close as the men’s race, the UAA women faced stiff competition as well.

“On the women’s side we faced a highly-ranked Simon Fraser squad and a very well-coached Seattle Pacific squad,” Friess said about the Seawolves’ opponents. “They both definitely showed up and made it really tough for us.”

Tanui and Kangogo were each named GNAC Cross Country Athlete of the Year, while Kipchumba earned the female Newcomer of the Year award and Samoei received Freshman of the Year honors.

With the conference championship behind them, the Seawolves head into the Division II West Regional meet with confidence and the understanding of what it takes to win in crucial situations.

“Up front, we will work on our depth for regionals and nationals,” Friess said regarding his women’s squad.

For Tanui and O’Guinn, preparations for the next level will be no different than how they have been training all season long.

“We are just going to do the same things we have been doing and keep training hard,” said O’Guinn. “We’ll keep working together to reach towards higher goals, while still having fun with it.”

Briefs compiled by Thomas McIntyre from GoSeawolves.com and the Associated Press

THENORTHERNLIGHT TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013

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Meet the Seawolf: Morgan Hooe

By Travis Dowling Contributor

The Northern Light recently caught up with Morgan Hooe, the freshman setter on the Seawolf women’s volleyball team.

Hooe is a hometown product, having grown up here in Anchorage, Alaska.

Along with sophomores Sarah Johnson and Katelynn Zanders, she’s one of the three South High School alumni currently on the Seawolves’ roster.

Hooe is majoring in history because of her love for United States history.

Outside of volleyball, some of her favorite things include Italian food and country music.

Her most memorable moment as a volleyball player came during her junior year of high school when she was a part of the team that won the 4A State Championship. The South Anchorage Wolverines went undefeated that year and didn’t drop a single set.

The undefeated year surely contributed to Hooe earning a spot with the Seawolves, and she was named Gatorade Player of the Year.

Hooe is getting an opportunity to play next to experienced senior setter Siobhan Johansen. Despite being a first-year player, she’s had an impact on the court, racking up 343 assists on the season.

The volleyball team is back home this weekend. They’ll take on the Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks Saturday night at 7 p.m. at the Wells Fargo Sports Complex.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOSEAWOLVES.COM

PHOTO BY ADAM EBERHARDT

Freshman setter Morgan Hooe dives to save the ball during the Sept. 20 game against Seattle Pacific University in the Wells Fargo Sports Complex.

A message for Red Sox Nation

By Mark Hoffman Contributor

The Red Sox clinched the 2013 World Series title last week in Boston, and an entire city collectively rejoiced.

The rest of the country collectively rolled their eyes.

As another classic October unfolded in the baseball universe, I was reminded of something I had known for years: I loathe Red Sox Nation.

Once upon a time, to be a Red Sox fan was a punishment. BoSox fans were scarred, bruised and battered. They had been close to a coveted World Series title before, only to come up short over and over again.

That’s why 2004 was so sweet.

The Red Sox had been in the shadow and throttle of the New York Yankees for decades. Sox fans hated them for their dominance and longed for their brand of success. When they finally upended the Yankees in the ALCS and then won the World Series, it ended a 96-year championship drought for the Sox. I enjoyed seeing die hard New Englanders — like my high school economics teacher — relieved of decades of embarrassment and torment.

So, what happened? Shouldn’t I be happy for these guys?

Let’s jump back to present day. I conducted a personal survey during the Fall Classic this year. I asked sports fans and casual sports observers alike how they felt about the Red Sox-Cardinals matchup.

Obviously, Sox and Cards fans were excited, but the consensus from a majority of those informally polled was most telling: “I don’t care who wins, I just don’t want to hear about it from the Boston fans.”

Just 10 years removed from receiving the pity of the entire country, Red Sox Nation has become the most annoying fan base in sports.

I blame the bandwagon jumpers. The deep-rooted BoSox fan

doesn’t bother me; it’s the fringe fan that jumped on in 2004 I despise.

I blame Bill Simmons. The original Boston sports guy made it cool to root for the loser and then everyone else started doing it.

I’m aware that I’m jealous. If it was my team winning, I’m sure I’d be singing a different tune. Equal parts disdain and jealousy coupled with annoyance and cockiness appears to be the recipe for my distaste.

But take heed Red Sox Nation. Understand how the rest of us feel. If you’re not careful, you will quickly become everything you once hated.

PEOPLE

THENORTHERNLIGHT TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013

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HOTTEST TOPICS What is worse, drinking alcohol or texting while driving?

Ashleigh Gaines Psychology Major

I think all of these are bad. Drinking and texting while driving. They all endanger someone’s life and alter judgment.

Christopher Narvaez

Stacey Lucason

I think drivers distracted or believing the speed limit is to be followed in the left lane is quite selfish. Left lane is for passing.

Drinking alcohol impairs you the whole time, but I’d hope you can put your phone down. You can’t get insta-sober.

Computer Systems Engineering Major

Philosophy Major

HOTTEST TOPICS QUESTIONS, PHOTOS AND COMMENTS COMPILED BY MOHAGANI ADAMU

Alberto Padilla

Ramses Anderson

The last time I helped a stranger was at Providence. A woman rushed to the hospital with her son and as far as I knew, she was short on money. So we offered her some cash, and I went out with my friends and brought back some food for her and her son.

I was at the post office and a homeless vet was sitting outside and needed some money for food. So I gave him the money in my pocket. Hopefully it helped. I know how it feels to need help — I’m retired Air Force myself.

Art Major

They are both very dangerous and endanger your life and other drivers. But overall I think that texting while driving is way worse because you are not paying attention to the road — and a split second can cost you your whole life! So do not text and drive!

Now that midterms are over, how is your semester going?

What did you do the last time a complete stranger needed your help?

Political Science and Spanish Major

Adaweze Maduakor

2012 Alumna, M.S. in Project Management

Jackie Odena

Jazzmyn Williams

Midterms are over, but there’s still so much to do! Finals are coming up already! I’ve got papers to write and events to plan.

My semester is going great. Midterms were not too hard for me, but I am happy they are over. My semester is looking easier and lighter. (I) cannot wait for next semester.

Social Work Major

Nursing Major

Seawolves take on the UAH Chargers NOVEMBER 8th and 9th at the Sullivan Arena

For tickets, visit

GoSeawolves.com

- FREE tickets for UAA students at the Student Union Desk - On sale at Sullivan Arena box office and all Ticketmaster locations

SEAWOLF HOCKEY

IT’S A NEW DAY UAA is an AA/EO employer and educational institution.

COMICS

THENORTHERNLIGHT TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013

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The Northern Light is a proud member of the ASSOCIATED COLLEGIATE PRESS. The Northern Light is a weekly UAA publication funded by student fees and advertising sales. The editors and writers of the Northern Light are solely responsible for its contents. Circulation is 4,500. The University of Alaska Anchorage provides equal education and employment opportunities for all, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, Vietnam-era or disabled-veteran status, physical or mental disability, changes in marital status, pregnancy, or parenthood.

The views expressed in the opinion section do not necessarily reflect the views of UAA or the Northern Light.­­­

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All corrections are posted online with the original story at www. thenorthernlight.org.

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ASSISTANT FEATURES EDITOR features2@thenorthernlight.org Vacant

CORRECTIONS On Pages 1 and 2 of the Oct. 29 issue of The Northern Light the photo captions for veterans Ed Young and Mike Hunt were reversed.

On Page 8 of the Oct. 29 issue of The Northern Light we mistakenly named a poetry event. Lauren Zuniga was featured in a poetry performance. The nature of the event was not competitive.

On Page 7 of the Oct. 29 issue of The Northern Light the song “Pale Blue Eyes” was a part of The Velvet Underground.