The Daily Aztec, Vol. 95, Issue 10

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Vol. 95, Issue 10

THE

DAILY

AZTEC

w w w. T h e D a i l y A z t e c . c o m Tw i t t e r : T h e D a i l y A z t e c San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1913

I N S I D E T O D AY STATE OF MIND

KPBS receives $2.5 million

TEXTBOOK COSTS Want a cheaper alternative to buying books? page 2

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

GRAND CANYON Discover how experiencing the Grand Canyon can be enriching by both foot and plane ride.

Nicholas Santiago / Staff Photographer

Former Qualcomm Chairman, Irwin Jacobs and his wife, Joan, donated $2.5 million to KPBS earlier this month. The money will be used to remodel the newsroom and offices.

page 4

S A R A H K O VA S H S TA F F W R I T E R

SPORTS

DOUBLE OVERTIME Men’s soccer team gets first win, but not before two periods of extra time. page 6

TODAY @ SDSU Kung Fu 7 p.m., Peterson Gym 240 Students will learn northern and southern Kung Fu styles that include applying and escaping from holds, joint locks, throws and take downs.

The newsroom of the future may be attainable for KPBS as a result of a recent donation.

Irwin Jacobs, former Qulacomm chairman and co-founder, and his wife, Joan, contributed the $2.5 million donation to KPBS, according to a Sept. 3 press release.

“KPBS plays a key role in journalism in San Diego and we applaud its commitment to quality and to the expanded application of

multimedia to inform our community,” Jacobs said in the press release.

The recent donation was not the first from the Jacobs’, according to KPBS general manager, Tom Karlo.

“They have, over the years, made numerous contributions and donations to support us,” Karlo said. “I think they’re very excited about what KPBS is doing.”

The entire donation will be spent on remodeling the staff offices, according to Karlo.

KPBS’s approximately 30 staff members currently work in outdat-

LGBT minor now offered

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IN CHIEF, FARYAR BORHANI 619.594.4190 EDITOR@THEDAILYAZTEC .COM

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FEATURES EDITOR, AMINATA DIA 619.594.6976 FEATURE@THEDAILYAZTEC .COM

SPORTS EDITOR, EDWARD LEWIS 619.594.7817 SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC .COM

STATE

OF MIND EDITOR, ALLAN ACEVEDO 619.594.0509 OPINION@THEDAILYAZTEC .COM

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INDEX STATE OF MIND............................................................2 TRAVEL & ADVENTURE..............................................4 SPORTS............................................................................6 CLASSIFIEDS....................................................................7 THE BACK PAGE...........................................................8

K R I ST I N A B L A K E S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

San Diego State has become the third university in the CSU system to offer a minor in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender studies.

The new minor was approved last October and became official at the start of this academic year.

SDSU director of diversity, Aaron Bruce, said that the minor is an important addition to the list of minors and majors the university already offers.

“It gives all students an opportunity to develop valuable cultural competencies,” Aaron Bruce said.

“As students graduate into a diverse workforce it is important they have an understanding of the true value of differences. Offering LGBT Studies at SDSU contributes to a wealth of scholarly research in a field overlooked by many universities. This new minor demonstrates the SDSU commitment to being leaders in diversity.”

Women’s Studies Professor Esther Rothblum, the program’s adviser, said the minor was a great addition to the school’s offerings, even during the current budget crisis. Because the minor consolidates courses that have already been established on campus for years, the school did not need to pay for additional courses or hire

new faculty members.

“It’s a great way to bring all these courses together,” Rothblum said.

“One of the advantages of this minor is now we have pulled all the courses together, so students actually know what exists.”

Edith Benkov, chair of the SDSU Senate, professor of French and chair of European Studies, teaches one of the required courses for the minor. Benkov has taught General Studies 322, Gay and Lesbian History and Culture, for more than five years.

She said the new minor can easily complement any academic major because the faculty members involved in LGBT Studies specialize in a variety of fields.

“There are a lot of LGBT students on campus and so they’re interested in (the minor) to learn more about their history and issues relating to them in arts and culture and media,” Benkov said. “Also, it’s a really good thing for the general student because it’s a way to learn about a group that you might not automatically recognize.”

According to Rothblum, about 20 students have either officially signed up for the minor or have contacted her about doing so.

Eventually, she said she would be interested in initiating a LGBT major.

ed cubicle-style departments.

Currently, most units of the station including television, radio and Web are separate from one another. “These are traditional-type office spaces,” Karlo said.

The aim is to use the money not only to update the working area, but also to “bring all teams together … in an open, collaborative working space,” Karlo said.

With the recent donation, KPBS will be able to do more multimedia producing with increased collaboration, as well as create the “newsroom of the future,” according to Karlo.

The remodel is set to be finished next fall, which will coincide with the station’s 50-year anniversary, according to the press release.

KPBS usually works with an annual budget of $19 million, the main source of revenue being the viewer subscriptions, which represent roughly $7 million annually.

The budget also includes federal and state funding, corporate sponsorships and “major gifts,” such as the recent donation, according to Karlo.

CAMPUS CRIME Physical violence against police officers Sept. 1 – Five police officers showed up at East Commons after receiving a call about the noise at an event, which had roughly 200 people in attendance.

The event, a step dance hosted by a San Diego State fraternity, turned rowdy when a fight broke out. Officers interviewed one of the victims, Jerome Scott, a 25-year-old non-student, for details on what had happened.

Scott, who suffered a cut lip and a black eye, got upset during the questioning and spit in one of the officer’s faces and kicked another officer.

Scott was later arrested and transported to jail for alleged public intoxication and battery on a police officer.

Multiple hit and runs Sept. 2 – At approximately 7:40 a.m., a female suspect hit a parked car in Parking Structure 4. The driver did not leave a note and went to class.

Later, police were able to find the driver of the vehicle and exchange contact information between the two parties. The victim was unsure of the damage to the vehicle. However, no one had been hurt.

Sept. 2 – A driver was hit but not injured in Parking Lot E. The student’s 2007 Toyota

Prius received damage to the passenger side bumper. The suspect, who was driving a white Ford, did not stop.

Police have not yet been able to locate the suspect.

Sept. 2 – A 2007 blue Hyundai Elantra was hit at Parking Structure 6. No one was injured in the incident, which occurred between Sept. 1 and Sept. 4. However, the vehicle received damage to the rear passenger side. While the incident was documented for insurance purposes, no crime report was filed.

Theft Sept. 3 – A laptop worth $1,000 was stolen between 9:30 and 9:35 a.m. at Aztec Center. The black Toshiba laptop had been left unattended for a few minutes. The property has not yet been recovered.

Sept. 4 – A large, black duffle bag was stolen at the Malcolm A. Love Library. The bag was reportedly taken while the victim went to the printer. The total loss, which includes the bag, a HP calculator and articles of clothing, was valued at $109. The bag and its contents have not yet been recovered.

—Compiled by Senior Staff Writer Kristina Blake

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STATE OF MIND

The Daily Aztec

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

FEELING TRUTH AT YOU

Online textbooks will save students money

T

hat painstaking time of the year is here. A couple of weeks into the school year and we see many students with empty wallets because of out-of-control textbook prices at the SDSU Bookstore. With add / drop dates quickly approaching for classes, there are also many students waiting to drop a class based on whether or not they can afford the required reading material. The decision of whether or not to buy a textbook for a class can be a difference of nearly $100. There is an easy solution that would eliminate this dilemma.

We need to eliminate tangible textbooks and have online textbooks only.

The fall semester is a frustrating time for students when it comes to buying textbooks for their classes because publishers have updated to a newer version, thus making the previous edition obsolete and eliminating the opportunity to buy or sell a used textbook. Even going to alternative bookstores, such as KB Books, will only bring meager savings.

The need for a solution to skyrocketing textbook prices is apparent now more than ever after students already suffered increased tuition and cutbacks in class lectures.

The market for textbooks is frustrating to college students who have to regularly deal with inflated prices.

Publishers keep textbooks prices inflated because they only profit from the initial sale of a textbook and not from subsequent buying and selling of used books. To increase profitability, publishers continuously release new editions of books at the expense of college students who are already strapped for cash.

There is a solution, if we can weigh in all of the competing interest correctly. We need to create a system that will benefit both the publishers and the students. Publishers need profits and students need more affordable textbooks. If physical textbooks were eliminated, there would be no market for used textbooks and used textbooks would no longer threaten publisher’s profits.

A company called Aplia is a good model for how online textbooks should be bought and utilized. Students are familiar with this company because of the homework that must be completed online for

T . J . BR O N S O N S TA F F C O L U M N I S T

classes such as Principles of Economics.

They also offer the opportunity to purchase textbooks online.

I am currently enrolled in Intermediate Microeconomics. This semester I decided to purchase access to the Web site and the online textbook as opposed to buying the tangible book. The cost of the textbook at the SDSU Bookstore is $193. I bought access to the same textbook on the Aplia Web site for $85. I will have access to the content of the book for the semester, and then it will lock me out of viewing the book, which means that the publisher doesn’t have to worry about textbooks being resold.

This will allow textbooks to be significantly cheaper for students because the costs of creating and distributing the physical textbooks are gone and there is no market for used textbooks to compete with. It takes away the headache of paying ridiculously expensive prices for textbooks and having to sell them back at the end of the semester.

All that has to be done is to create a win-win situation for both students and book publishers. Allowing students to purchase semester permits to access books online is a solution everyone would be happy with.

Because neither the California State Legislature nor the California State University Board of Trustees is willing to advocate for us, maybe students can strike their own deal with publishers to ease the burden of an increasingly expensive education system.

—T.J. Bronson is a journalism and finance senior.

—This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Daily Aztec. Send email to opinion@thedailyaztec.com.

Anonymous letters will not be printed.

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The high price of textbooks frustrates many San Diego State students, with new books easily costing hundreds of dollars. Online textbooks are becoming popular because they are a cheaper and more accessible alternative.

STATE OF MIND

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

The Daily Aztec

3

NEWS TO KNOW Orange County Assemblyman Michael Duvall resigned last Wednesday because of his involvement in a sex scandal. A local Los Angeles television station aired a video in which Duvall is caught bragging to a colleague about his affairs with multiple women. Duvall is known for his strict conservatism and family values.

He later apologized and stated, “I am deeply saddened that my inappropriate comments have become a major distraction for my colleagues in the Assembly, who are working hard on the very serious problems facing our state.”

1

Thousands of people stormed the nation’s capital on Saturday, rallying against big government involvement. Protesters sang patriotic songs such as “God Bless America” and chanted “U.S.A.! U.S.A.! U.S.A.!” People traveled from all over the country to partake in this demonstration. The main focus was on health care, but protesters also criticized gun rights, illegal immigration and tax reform. Multiple Republican Congressmen also attended the event in hopes that the government will change. It is the largest protest in Washington D.C. since President Barack Obama has taken office.

2

Caster Semenya, the women’s world champion for the 800meter, may be stripped of her gold medal. Semenya was ordered by the International Association of Athletics Federation to be tested for her gender and it was revealed that she is a hermaphrodite. The 18-year-old runner has higher testosterone levels than normal women and does not have a womb or ovaries. She told “You Magazine”, “God made me the way I am and I accept

3

myself. I am who I am and I’m proud of myself.” The South African runner may have to have surgery in order to compete in future races.

4

The Washington D.C. sniper, John Allen Muhammad, may have an execution date on Nov. 9. In 2002 Muhammad and his partner Lee Boyd Malvo terrorized the Washington D.C. area. They shot 13 people, 10 of whom died. He was convicted to life in prison and now Virginia prosecutors are asking for execution. Muhammad’s lawyer will attempt to file an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court and ask Gov. Tim Kaine for clemency.

Lawrence Summers, President Barack Obama’s economic advisor, stated that the unemployment rate is going to continue to stay high in subsequent years. Summers said on Friday, “The level of unemployment is unacceptably high and will, by all forecasts, remain unacceptably high for a number of years.” The current national unemployment is at 9.7 percent, which is the highest it has been in 26 years.

California is specifically at a 12.1 percent unemployment rate. Summers believes that the problems with the economy will take years to fix.

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6

Police reported that a collection of original Andy Warhol’s art was stolen last week in a collector’s home in Los Angeles. The artwork was portraits that Warhol painted of famous athletes and is worth millions of dollars.

The police have no suspects or leads of who is involved in the theft. A $1 million reward is being offered for anyone who has information about the burglary.

MCT Campus

John Allen Muhammad, also known as “The D.C. Sniper”, awaits his execution date. Virginia prosecutors have asked that he receive the death penalty for his crimes. Muhammad shot 13 people, 10 of whom died.

Make your move... to

The Daily Aztec!

ATTENTION ATHEISTS, AGNOSTICS, HUMANISTS, & SKEPTICS! The Secular Student Alliance is working with students and faculty at San Diego State University to start an atheist/humanist/skeptics student group. All of us would like your help. The Alliance’s staff and volunteers have years of experience with starting and running campus groups and are happy to offer our advice, books, magazines, speakers, group running manuals, connections to local and national secular groups, and a whole lot more!

Get involved at

www.secularstudents.org/sdsu Or by emailing w w w . T h e D a i l y A z t e c . c o m Display & Online 619-594-6977 • Classifieds 619-594-4199

sdsu@secularstudents.org w w w . S e c u l a r S t u d e n t s . o r g

STATE OF MIND

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

The Daily Aztec

3

NEWS TO KNOW

1

Orange County Assemblyman Michael Duvall resigned last Wednesday because of his involvement in a sex scandal. A Los Angeles television station aired a video in which Duvall bragged to a colleague about his affairs with multiple women. Duvall is known for his strict conservatism and family values. He later apologized and stated, “I am deeply saddened that my inappropriate comments have become a major distraction for my colleagues in the Assembly, who are working hard on the very serious problems facing our state.”

Thousands of people stormed the nation’s capital on Saturday, rallying against big government involvement. Protesters sang patriotic songs such as “God Bless America” and chanted “U.S.A.! U.S.A.! U.S.A.!” People traveled from all over the country to partake in this demonstration. The main focus was on health care, but protesters also criticized gun rights, illegal immigration and tax reform. Multiple Republican congressmen also attended the event in hopes that the government will change.

It is the largest protest in Washington D.C. since President Barack Obama has taken office.

2

Caster Semenya, the women’s world champion for the 800-meter, may be stripped of her gold medal.

Semenya was ordered by the International Association of Athletics Federation to be tested for her gender and it was revealed that she is a hermaphrodite. The 18-year-old runner has higher testosterone levels than normal women and does not have a womb or ovaries. She told You magazine, “God made me the way I am and I accept myself. I am who I am and I’m proud of

3

myself.” The South African runner may have to have surgery in order to compete in future races.

The Washington D.C. sniper, John Allen Muhammad, may have an execution date on Nov. 9. In 2002 Muhammad and his partner Lee Boyd Malvo terrorized the Washington D.C. area. They shot 13 people, 10 of whom died. He was convicted to life in prison and now Virginia prosecutors are asking for execution. Muhammad’s lawyer will attempt to file an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court and ask Gov. Tim Kaine for clemency.

4

Lawrence Summers, President Barack Obama’s economic adviser, stated the unemployment rate is going to continue to stay high in subsequent years. Summers said last Friday, “The level of unemployment is unacceptably high and will, by all forecasts, remain unacceptably high for a number of years.”

The current national unemployment is at 9.7 percent, which is the greatest it has been in 26 years. California is specifically at a 12.1 percent unemployment rate.

Summers believes the problems with the economy will take years to fix.

5

Police reported a collection of Andy Warhol’s original art was stolen last week in a collector’s home in Los Angeles. The stolen artwork includes portraits that Warhol painted of famous athletes and is worth millions of dollars. The police have no suspects or leads of who is involved in the theft. A $1 million reward is being offered for anyone who has information about the burglary

6

-Compiled by Assistant State of Mind Editor Sarah Grieco.

MCT Campus

John Allen Muhammad, also known as “The D.C. Sniper”, awaits his execution date. Virginia prosecutors have asked that he receive the death penalty for his crimes. Muhammad shot 13 people, 10 of whom died.

Make your move... to

The Daily Aztec!

ATTENTION ATHEISTS, AGNOSTICS, HUMANISTS, & SKEPTICS! The Secular Student Alliance is working with students and faculty at San Diego State University to start an atheist/humanist/skeptics student group. All of us would like your help. The Alliance’s staff and volunteers have years of experience with starting and running campus groups and are happy to offer our advice, books, magazines, speakers, group running manuals, connections to local and national secular groups, and a whole lot more!

Get involved at

www.secularstudents.org/sdsu Or by emailing w w w . T h e D a i l y A z t e c . c o m Display & Online 619-594-6977 • Classifieds 619-594-4199

sdsu@secularstudents.org w w w . S e c u l a r S t u d e n t s . o r g

4

The Daily Aztec

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Explore the wonder Rock on with local of the Grand Canyon indoor climbing gyms K A R I L UU S TA F F W R I T E R

There’s no wrong way to experience the Grand Canyon. Whatever method you prefer, journeying to this geological wonder is a necessity.

San Diego State recreation administration senior Erin Oster trotted down the winding trails on a seven-hour mule ride with a group of 10 people. With her legs sore and shaking from the ride, Oster still considered it an excellent way to experience the canyon.

“We went pretty far down the trail, but we didn’t even quite reach the bottom,” Oster said. “Our group got closer to the river and we saw about one to two rafters. It was really scary too, because the mules get really close the edge.”

A positive aspect is the mule rides require no experience and mules are a lot quicker than hiking.

“It’s cool because I’m not much of a hiker and if you were to hike, you have to start really early in the morning,” Oster said. “I don’t think I will be able to have the endurance, and it’s very steep. There are also a few stop points for hikers to rest and a lot of the trails are considered very tough.”

UC San Diego student Jessica Chadwick preferred the even quicker route and flew over the canyon via helicopter as she said she believes she is not much of a hiker either.

“It didn’t even feel very fast, we were just cruising along and covering a lot of desert

ground in a short amount of time,” Chadwick said.“I preferred traveling this method because from everything I saw from the drive to the canyon and the Skywalk, it didn’t even seem as cool from the helicopter.”

With a group of six people, the flight started from Las Vegas and lasted an hour and a half. Chadwick was able to see the Ring of Fire, the Skywalk and even the leftover snow on the mountains.

“It was just great because you see so much aerial view in a less amount of time and although I kind of got the Sparknotes version of the trip, I just don’t have the time or energy to do a trip like the Grand Canyon.”

Although, there are many alternative ways to experience the Grand Canyon, Oster said she feels the trip is definitely not for those who have a fear of heights.

“The Grand Canyon is a lot more amazing in person and I feel the photos don’t do it justice at all,” Oster said.

As this is Oster’s second trip to the canyon, she also recommends individuals stay longer as she was able to see the many natural wonders, including the California condor.

“If you come for a couple days you will really be able to enjoy it because it’s nice to see the many different viewpoints.” Oster said. “You can take many easy to hard hikes, mule rides and even raft the Colorado River. I hear people come for the day or they just stop by and then just go to Las Vegas, but it really doesn’t give the canyon justice.”

MCT Campus

Indoor rock climbing is a great option for anyone ranging from beginning to veteran climbers. The convenience of indoor climbing gyms makes it easy to gain safe instruction and training for novices.

Forget the great outdoors and head inside for a challenging rock climb JARED W HITLOCK S TA F F W R I T E R

Small, multicolored holds cover the 30-foot walls that jut out at steep angles.

The odds looked stacked against anyone climbing such monstrosities at Vertical Hold, a local indoor rock climbing gym. But climbers such as Kenna Quiroga, the gym’s manager, welcome the challenge.

“I started climbing because my boyfriend made me, but I soon found it addicting.”

Quiroga said. “I like it because you have to be 100 percent focused.”

“Climbers can either try the high routes that build endurance or opt for the short, ‘bouldering’ routes that increase strength.”

MCT Campus

The Grand Canyon has long astonished tourists with its natural beauty. For people who are not fond of hiking but want to experience this gorgeous wonder, opting for alternative methods of travel is the way to go.

With 23,000 square feet of wall, the Mira Mesa rock climbing spot is a popular place for those who like to do their best SpiderMan impression on a daily basis. The spacious environment features a plethora of climbing routes. Climbers can either try the high routes that build endurance or opt for the short, “bouldering” routes that increase strength.

For rock climbing enthusiasts, the popular sport is unique because of the mixture of physical stamina and creativity of the climb.

Great strength is required to grip holds barely large enough to accommodate three fingers, while constant vigilance and planning are necessary to advance up the wall.

The combination of a mental and physical workout has replaced the ordinary gym workout for regular rock climber David Mierke.

“I tried the whole working out thing, but climbing is a better motivation to exercise,” Mierke said.

The convenience of visiting indoor climbing locations explains the increase in popularity. The sport was once overshadowed by the outdoor version, but is now seen on its own terms. Indoor rock climbing isn’t better or worse than the gym, just different, according to Quiroga.

Indoor rock climbing gyms aim to offer the same thrills as climbing outdoors, minus some of the drawbacks. While climbing indoors, weather is never an issue and animal attacks are unlikely. Likewise, the safer alternative of indoor rock climbing is a better introduction route for those who are new to the sport.

For first-timers, equipment rentals include everything necessary to start climbing: shoes, harness and a chalk bag. The staff is happy to help new people channel their inner mountain climber by giving lessons and teaching safety practices.

Rock Climbing 101 includes how to properly use a harness and tie a figure-eight knot, both of which are integral to “belaying.” In other words, two people are connected by the same rope, one person climbs and the other person stands on the ground holding a rope to ensure the climber doesn’t come crashing to the ground if they fall.

Rock climbing is even more fun in groups. Talking smack while traversing or cheering on friends who are stuck on the difficult parts of the wall is all part of the fun.

Vertical Hold and other indoor rock climbing locations such as SolidRock Gym in Old Town offer classes, seminars, clinics and birthday parties to encourage social climbing.

At Vertical Hold, group packages provide a day pass, instruction and equipment for $20 per person with a 10-person minimum.

Experienced climbers who already possess equipment can climb for $16 per day or buy an annual pass for $550.

For more information about indoor rock climbing, visit www.indoorclimbing.com.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

The Daily Aztec

5

Traveling solo opens up a world of opportunity

MCT Campus

Traveling alone guarantees a liberating trip. Perfect for soul-searching or fully discovering new places, traveling without accompaniment can make for a rewarding and unforgettable experience. However, before ditching all contact, make sure to be fully prepared for and knowledgeable about the planned destination’s culture and surroundings. Once all the research is completed, grab a bag and get ready for the experience of a lifetime.

Ditch your comfort zone and discover a foreign country by yourself JARED W HITLOCK S TA F F W R I T E R

For many students, the ideal vacation means enjoying foreign lands with family, friends or a large group, which can be a lesson in compromise. To avoid the pitfalls of group schedules and budget negotiations, consider traveling alone. But note the pros and cons of traveling solo, and keep these tips in mind when embarking across the country.

Traveling alone is liberating. A hectic schedule is the natural result of group traveling because each person’s interests must be taken into account. However, the pace of solo travel is slower. The solo traveler is free to explore and immerse him or herself in the surrounding area.

Go wherever, whenever. Travel is more enjoyable without having to worry about others’ expectations.

Arriving in a foreign place alone is initially lonely, but the excitement of the new environment spurs a mindset that’s open to new experiences. When traveling with others, travelers often stick to the group, but once alone, a traveler is forced to socialize with and befriend unfamiliar faces. Fortunately, others are generally receptive and curious about solo travelers. Ultimately, the solo traveler has a better understanding of the local culture he or she would have otherwise missed out on. If mingling with locals is difficult, try staying at a hostel to meet like-minded people.

Although traveling alone is an enlightening experience, remember that solo travel carries a stigma that’s likely to elicit a checklist of worries from close family members: It’s dangerous, lonely and a lot of responsibility. These are valid concerns, so reassure worried family members by researching potential travel locations to ease their anxiety.

Research the local culture with Web sites such as www.lonelyplanet.com and

www.tripadvisor.com to discover what the acceptable behavior, traditions and dress standards are in the area. Make sure to practice speaking the native language so communication is more fluid. Also, get familiar with the nearest hostels, restaurants and best destinations to map out an effective game plan.

If on a budget, check out Web sites that cater to the independent traveler such as www.hospitalityclub.org and www.couchsurfing.org. Try making accommodations before leaving, so family members can be notified in case of an emergency.

“Although traveling alone is an enlightening experience, remember that solo travel carries a stigma that’s likely to elicit a checklist of worries from close family members: It’s dangerous, lonely and a lot of responsibility.”

One of the downsides to solo travel is greater vulnerability to theft or attacks. Security takes on a new level of importance, but there’s no need to be paranoid if necessary precautions are taken. Pack as lightly as possible and leave any jewelry or valuables at home.

Also, let others know about the solo excursion, but don’t be overtly obvious about it. And making friends is great, but don’t become dependent on others for help or any information.

Leaving a comfort zone without a reference point or anyone to rely on is intimidating. However, these are the times the solo traveler can learn the most about him or herself.

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SPORTS

The Daily Aztec

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

MEN’S SOCCER

Toft’s goals give Aztecs win against Badgers Senior seals victory with penalty shot in second overtime D AN P E R E Z S TA F F W R I T E R

Evan Toft would not be denied on Sunday. The senior midfielder knew how much the San Diego State men’s soccer team needed a win. He knew that it didn’t matter how long the game went, as long as SDSU (1-2-1) came out on top.

Toft put the Aztecs on top in the final minute of the second overtime against the University of SDSU 3 Wisconsin when he put a WISCONSIN 2 penalty kick into the back of the net for his second goal of the game, bringing the final score to 3-2.

“Evan (Toft) was on today,” senior tri-captain defender Nick Cardenas said. “He really embodied everything we tried to do. It just feels really good to get that first win under our belt.”

After drawing first blood at 5:17 into the match off of a goal by junior

forward Khadim Diouf, SDSU found itself in a 2-1 hole midway through the second half. In the 73rd minute Toft connected on a cross from redshirt sophomore defender Justin Davies for his first goal of the game.

“It was a real up and down game, almost like a rollercoaster,” Cardenas said. “Once we hit overtime, we knew we could get this win. Our fitness took over and that’s what we’ve trained for.”

In both overtime periods the Aztecs controlled most of the possessions and continued to win battles and fights they didn’t in their previous games.

“Our mindset was different, I mean, it was there for the whole game,” redshirt senior tri-captain Jamel Wallace said. “We competed in every single minute and we competed for everything, we wanted this win badly.”

The Badgers wasn’t the only team to force SDSU into double overtime.

The Aztecs came close to their first win on Friday against the University of Pennsylvania in their first game of the Courtyard Marriott San Diego Central Tournament. SDSU controlled a 2-1 lead until Quaker Alex Tuch tied it in the 86th minute.

“It was real disappointing to not

come out with a win against Penn,” Cardenas said. “A tie was way better than a loss because when it comes down to the tourney, this tie could be the difference of us getting in or not.”

“ Evan was on today.

He really embodied everything we tried to do.”

—Nick Cardenas, senior defender The win and tie gave the Aztecs a share of the tournament title with Penn. The success SDSU experienced was attributed to how it performed down the stretch and in extra time, as its superior fitness gave it the advantage.

“Double OT in the two games was a lot, but we trained for this,” redshirt senior tri-captain forward Matt McManus said. “We spent a lot of time training to be the most fit and be able to play long games and out compete down the stretch. It really showed and we need to take this and keep rolling.”

Bryan Koci / Staff Photographer

Evan Toft scored twice against Wisconsin, including the game winner, as SDSU won 3-2.

VOLLEYBALL

Manasco’s big night not enough B E AU B E A R D E N S E N I O R S TA F F W R I T E R

Glenn Connelly / Photo Editor

Junior right side hitter Kelsey Manasco had career highs in both kills and digs in the Aztecs’ 3-1 loss to St. Mary’s on Sunday.

BEAT BOX OT DISAPPOINTMENTS On Friday, the San Diego State women’s soccer team lost in overtime to Arizona State, 2-1.

Junior midfielder Cat Walker scored the only goal for SDSU in a game that featured a 40minute delay because of light-

ning in the area.

Saturday brought more disappointment as the Aztecs tied UC Riverside 1-1 in double overtime. Despite out-shooting the Highlanders by a mark of 20-9, SDSU was unable to capitalize as freshman defender Rachael McGlinchy was the

only Aztec to find the back of the net.

SDSU’s record is now 3-3-2 and will play their next game at home on Friday against Sacramento State.

-Compiled by Assistant Sports Editor David Pope

Statistically, Kelsey Manasco could not have asked for a better showing.

The junior right side hitter set career highs in kills and digs.

But the San Diego State volleyball team was unable to take advantage of her performGAELS 3 ance and AZTECS 1 dropped a 3-1 (25-18, 23-25, 26-24, 25-20) decision to St. Mary’s on Sunday in Peterson Gym. “Not good enough,” Manasco said of her 19 kills and 11 digs.

“Because we didn’t win, we have a lot of stuff to work on and learn from.”

SDSU opened up the first set by taking a 5-1 lead, but the Gaels responded with four points to tie it up. Neither team had the momentum, but that quickly changed. With the game tied at 10, St. Mary’s took three straight points on two hitting errors by the Aztecs and a kill by outside hitter Megan York.

“We had some crucial errors at bad points that let the game slip away,” head coach Deitre CollinsParker said. “(St. Mary’s) played when they needed to and did the things they needed to do.”

But it wasn’t just mistakes that doomed SDSU. One player in particular caused the Aztecs some problems — senior middle blocker Megan Burton.

“The play that she ran really made it difficult for us to defend other things,” Collins-Parker said.

“She was very effective in what she needed to do for that team. We just didn’t adjust well when they started going to it. Their offense

really exploited our weaknesses.”

While SDSU may have dropped the first set by a seven-point margin, the Aztecs didn’t let it affect them. The team came out in the second with more intensity, but the Gaels found ways to stay in the game. SDSU eventually gained the upper hand though, and won the set on a kill by sophomore outside hitter Paije Pearson.

“It was really exciting,” Pearson said. “I think we all just wanted that game so bad.”

The Aztecs found themselves trailing 23-20 in the third set, but rallied back with three kills by Manasco, junior middle blocker Lauren Salisbury, senior outside hitter Caitlin McMillan and a setting error by St. Mary’s to take a 24-23 lead. SDSU couldn’t hold on though, as consecutive kills by junior middle blocker Shannon Lowell and an Aztec error gave the Gaels the win and a 2-1 advantage in the match.

“It was really frustrating because we had game point swing and we didn’t take it,” CollinsParker said. “And it’s never easy to hand a win to somebody else. We had that game under our control.”

SDSU went back and forth with St. Mary’s in the final set, but it was the Gaels that closed it out.

Tied at 19, St. Mary’s notched four straight points to take the lead. The Aztecs (4-4) tried to get back into it with a kill by Manasco, but the Gaels (7-1) scored the next two points on kills by sophomore outside hitter Chanteal Satele to get the win.

“I’m happy that we’re progressing,” Collins-Parker said. “(But I’m) disappointed that we lost. I think we had the ability to beat this team, but we have to play at a higher level more consistently.”

CLASSIFIEDS

Tuesday September 15, 2009

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THE BACK PAGE

The Daily Aztec

DAILY HOROSCOPE

HUMOR: I’M A GIRL, YOU KNOW

Dear Cosmo, thanks for the tips

I

stopped subscribing to Cosmopolitan a while ago.

I know, I know, with all the Q & A’s on how to get the best underarm shave and those throw-your-head-back-inuproarious-uncontrollable-laughter sex bloopers, you’re probably wondering why I would ever think to stop it from depleting my checking account for the subscription — aka “my happy hour money” — for its services.

Because I am a complete and utter fan of Chelsea Handler, I occasionally buy a copy so I can read her column and indulge in a lame story about the naughtiest thing some anonymous stranger has ever done.

Unfortunately, I had to spend a full day in jury duty this summer, so I decided to snag a copy of the August 2009 issue. And thank God I did, otherwise the nine hours I spent serving my country would have been a total waste of my time.

After reading Handler’s column, I flipped through each page, incessantly in search of something that would grab my short attention span for more than a mere five seconds. And then, suddenly, I struck a gold mine.

In light of our current economic climate, the witty writers of Cosmopolitan decided to enlighten the world with the article “12 Sexy, Totally Free Dates.”

And considering that I’m not the type of girl to go on dates, I figured I could at least pass on some of the ideas to my best friend who is broke because of her unrelenting shopping problem.

With this being said, I have

R Y A N E I S E N AC H E R S E N I O R S TA F F C O L U M N I S T

decided to share my favorites with you all in hopes that you too will be able to enjoy the pleasure of no-frills dating.

“Going to dinner with your guy usually means forking out a lot of dough, unless you feast on complimentary samples.”

Wow. There is nowhere else I would love to spend my Saturday evening more than at Costco, feasting on fingernail-sized samples of Fiber One bars from a lady by the name of Claire in a hairnet. Good news is if I’m still hungry after inhaling all that granola, Jane with the red bouffant by the seafood section just made a fresh batch of lasagna.

Hopefully she won’t notice if I grab two.

“Tour a local brewery together. Not only is there usually no charge, but you might score a beer on the house.”

One whole beer? That is so generous! I love drinking a single beer.

The best part is that when it’s gone, you totally don’t wish you had another.

“Check out www.freehappyhour.com and sign up to receive e-mails alerting you about zero-charge drink specials.”

They must have called the managers at my work for this idea. We

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

had this kind of deal going on during the summer. You come in during happy hour from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. and get a free water with purchase of an appetizer.

Don’t get too excited, though — it wasn’t bottled or anything.

“Don’t shell out to see a football game. Some pro teams — such as the Chicago Bears and the Miami Dolphins — let fans watch during the preseason for free. Bonus: You can make out in the stands without being surrounded by screaming drunk dudes.”

Good lord! I didn’t know there was such a thing as an extremely giving football team owner.

They’re just letting people waltz into their stadiums without paying a dime these days? I think I need to put a call into the McCaskey family and run this one by them before I spend $300 to fly to Chicago.

Bonus: Instead of being surrounded by screaming drunk dudes, fans can be surrounded by the sound of my screaming drunken slurs.

Thanks for the great tips, Cosmo! I’m most definitely reconsidering renewing my subscription again.

—Ryan Eisenacher is a journalism senior.

BY LINDA C. BLACK, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (09/15/09) Fond memories guide your actions this year.

Trace your family tree back as far as you can, and understand why you do what you do.

ARIES (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 7 You want to play, yet there's work to be done. Can you delegate anything? Don't offer too little or pay too much.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 7 - Something that worked before will work again.There's been a lot of confusion, but you can find your way through it.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 7 Don't be alarmed by incoming news.

Double-check it before you take action.

Some of the gossip is inaccurate.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 7 A roommate confides in you. Should you spread the word? Absolutely not.This secret is too personal to share.

LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is an 8 Follow through with plans already made.

You're assuming more authority, and that will bring greater wealth.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 7 You've worked hard lately.You deserve a

break but don't have time. Do your deepbreathing exercises.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 5 Go for the glamour. Intuition provides practical information. Be sure to turn off the water before you leave home.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is an 8 - Sexy is as sexy does. Don't be afraid to spring a surprise. Don't be surprised if someone springs one on you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 7 - Life is hard sometimes. Get over it.

Listen to other people and show them that you care.You'll be glad you did.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 6 - Follow your intuition, because what people say is not always what they mean.

Dress up your words.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 6 - Love sneaks up on you while you're busy doing something else. Enjoy the surprise and respond in kind.

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 6 You understand what you feel, but you have a hard time expressing it now. A hands-on approach may work best. © 2009,TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

SUDOKU

BY THE MEPHAM GROUP

Level:

1 2

3 4

Instructions: Complete the grid so

—This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Daily Aztec.

each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk.

LOOKING THROUGH OUR LENS

Solution available online at www.TheDailyAztec.com © 2009 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Media Services. All rights reserved.

CROSSWORD

GET IN THE GROOVE assistant photo editor lindsey martin captured the audience at the 18th annual Paddle Out for Clean Water concert at the Ocean Beach Pier last Sunday.

ACROSS 1 Actress Messing of “Will & Grace” 6 Nothing, in Latin 11 6-Across suffix 14 Typical 15 Endangered layer 16 Boston __ Party 17 Toon rodent who’s a British secret agent 19 Long in the tooth 20 Scenic routes, often 21 “Look Homeward, Angel” author Thomas 23 Attempt 24 Online birthday greeting 26 Suitor’s proposal 32 Baseball’s “Big Unit” __ Johnson 33 Cattle drive buddy 34 Dinghy propeller 35 TiVo predecessors 36 Bouquet 38 Litter weakling 39 Barely manage, with “out” 40 German name for Cologne 41 Cup for café 42 Shipwrecked literary hero 46 “__ directed”: medication warning 47 Ship, to a sailor 48 Name 50 Mike Nichols’s comedy partner 56 Aardvark’s snack 57 TV sci-fi series, first aired 9/15/1965, on which a robot spoke the catchphrase formed by the first words of 17-, 26-

EDITED BY RICH NORRIS AND JOYCE LEWIS

Solution available online at www.TheDailyAztec.com and 42-Across 59 Nipper’s co.

60 Writer Bagnold et al.

61 Pinball no-nos 62 Buddy 63 Thick 64 Two foursomes DOWN 1 Bombs that don’t go off 2 Actor Morales 3 1930s-’40s GermanAmerican political group 4 Fury 5 In a wary way 6 “Hold the Hellmann’s” 7 Shirt that once had a reptilian logo

8 Male servant 9 Aetna’s business: Abbr.

10 Moving toward the calmer side, at sea 11 “Shoulda listened to me!”

12 Ego 13 Created 18 Actor Calhoun 22 Hockey legend Bobby 25 Golfer’s wheels 26 Loony one 27 How a debater’s response is made 28 Mormons’ gp.

29 Philly Ivy League sch.

30 Minister’s home 31 Art Deco designer 32 Trailer park resident, for short

36 Slugger Sammy 37 Forms an increasingly smaller circle around, with “on” 38 Coll. dorm VIPs 40 Prepared to say 26-Across 41 Seeks help from 43 Cuba or Aruba: Abbr.

44 Common poolside chair 45 Bridle part 48 Ball field protector 49 Peruvian of old 51 Former Ford cars 52 DeMille film, say 53 Enhanced milkshake 54 Entr’__: intermission 55 Mon., on Tues.

58 Four quarters