07-22-2013

High: 71º Low: 66º

WWW.THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

MONDAY, JULY 22, 2013

VOLUME 100, ISSUE 2

SDSU shines a light on Comic-Con history

campus

Sofia Casilla Copy Chief

Caitlin Johnson Staff Writer

This year, San Diego Comic-Con International featured a poster presentation created by the San Diego State Comic Arts Committee highlighting the history of the convention.

The presentation “Preserving Comic-Con’s Cultural History: The Richard Alf Collection and the Comic-Con Kids” was showcased online via comiccon.sdsu.edu and in print at Comic-Con. Both presentations shared the origins of how the Comic-Con “kids” founded the conference in the 1970s.

The grant project’s funding was given to SDSU’s Comic Arts Committee through the Community Stories Grant Program from the California Council for the Humanities in 2009, after the convention’s 40th anniversary. SDSU Comic Arts Committee Chair Markel Tumlin said the purpose of the grant was to fund the recording of interviews with the original Comic-Con kids and to preserve California’s history.

“We’re trying to preserve that history for the future, for academics, for comic fans, for researchers and … build other ties between the comics community and San Diego State,” Tumlin said.

In Fall 2011, Dean Gale Etschmai-

Numerous Comic-Con attendees walk toward the San Diego Convention Center.

SDSU worked on a special presentation depicting Comic-Con’s foundations.

er created the Comic Arts Committee, giving selected library employees different tasks to put both presentations together. “(Acquiring the Richard Alf papers) is like a major cultural movement in San Diego,” Special Collections and University Archives librarian Anna Culbertson said. “As the ‘guardians of Special Collections,’ it’s kind of our job to preserve that.”

The website, called The Comic-Con Kids: Finding and Defining Fandom, features interviews with Comic-Con’s first co-chairman Alf and 15 other teen comic enthusiasts who helped found the conference in 1970, many of whom also became SDSU alumni.

“There is a palpable, enthusiastic energy surrounding our interviewees,” Comic-Con Kids project coordinator Pamela Jackson said. “Their stories draw the early Comic-Cons

Bike share puts new spin on SD local Hannah Beausang News Editor

The San Diego City Council recently approved a bike share initiative that will bring 1,800 bikes to the city by 2014.

The 10-year contract, which was signed with DecoBike, will provide between 180 and 220 self-service bike kiosks for public use at no cost to taxpayers. To make room for these kiosks, a number of parking meters will be eliminated in the city—a decision city officials have deemed a fair trade.

The kiosks will be solar powered and the bikes will have a front storage basket, self-generating LED lights and reflective spokes, and tires for night safety.

Councilman David Alvarez said the program is a part of a larger plan to make San Diego friendlier to cyclists.

“Bike sharing is a natural extension of our city’s commitment to bring better bicycle infrastructure to San Diego,” Alvarez said.

“From building more bike lanes, to investing in bike safety, to promoting public transportation, bike sharing fits right in.”

Andy Hanshaw, executive director for the San Diego County Bike Coalition, said the program will have a positive impact on the com-

munity, encouraging people to be more active and eliminating some of San Diego’s traffic congestion.

“I think it’s a game changer for bicycling and the way bicycling is used for transportation in our region,” Hanshaw said. “It’s been shown to be very impactful in other cities across the country.”

DecoBike sharing programs are already functional in Long Beach, New York and Florida. Users in other cities have logged more than 2,600,000 trips using the bikes, DecoBike’s chief marketing officer Colby Reese said. Reese said bike sharing provides a reasonable method for transportation.

“It’s one of the easiest ways to get from point A to point B without the headaches of owning, storing and maintaining your own bike—or car,” Reese said. “Bike sharing has proven to be highly cost effective and efficient on a variety of fronts.”

Co-director of the SDSU Sustainability program Trent Briggs said automobile transportation is one of the main producers of greenhouse gases. Briggs said utilizing alternative methods of transportation, such as bikes, provides a viable solution for combating carbon emission, but he proposed a movement toward sustainability on a larger level.

BIKE SHARE continued on page 2

as an inclusive environment, where young people’s talents were mentored, and a mutual love of comics, popular arts and reading were nurtured.”

The second part of the presentation was featured on Saturday at the Comic Arts Conference in conjunction with Comic-Con. The panel displayed artistic compilations and in-depth ideas about various comic elements. Many exhibitors chose to focus on the sociological and psychological aspects of comics, rather than just the art. Attendees were drawn to the event in hopes of discovering and discussing a deeper connection with the comics they’d grown to love.

At the poster presentation iPads displayed screenshots of the website and Alf-related artifacts in addition to snippets of interviews with Comic-Con founders. Handouts and an SDSU Comic Arts Committee button, which featured a drawing from early

caitlin johnson , staff writer

Comic-Con fan and SDSU alumnus Clayton Moore, were given out.

The papers Alf wrote are “a fascinating look at how fandom and nature of the times in 1970 coalesced in the creation of Comic-Con,” Tumlin said.

The Alf papers were donated to SDSU’s Love Library after his death and are located in the Specials Collections & University Archives.

“Alf was one of the key figures in the founding of Comic-Con, even though he was only 17 years old at the time,” Tumlin said. “His is a very interesting story, and we are happy to have been entrusted with his papers.”

Tumlin said the committee’s work to preserve the cultural heritage of Comic-Con is ongoing. For those interested in learning more about the project and presentations, visit http:// library.sdsu.edu/guides/tutorial. php?id=25.

Standout program earns recognition campus David Alvarado Contributor

San Diego State’s Compact for Success program has recently been recognized by the National Journal as the “leading innovator in higher education.” In addition to the recognition, the National Journal invited one of the program’s directors Janet Abbott to speak at the Back in Business forum in Washington D.C. SDSU was honored for its efforts to promote higher retention and graduation rates through a partnership with the Sweetwater Union High School District. The program allows middle and high school students with good academic standing guaranteed admission to SDSU upon completion of the program requirements.

Compact for Success Program Director Lou Murillo said the recent recognition from the National Journal can be attributed to the program’s effectiveness.

“I think its pretty much established a pretty outstanding track record of accomplishment, and I think that’s what drew our program to the attention of the National Journal,” Murillo said.

“They were looking at models of programs that have been undertaken by universities to encourage students to apply to a college and

Janet Abbot, Compact for Success

I think our program stands out as probably one of the better ones in the country.”

Murillo also said it’s not unusual for the program to get recognition. He said the program has been awarded several recognitions from The Campaign for College Opportunity, based in California, and also by Excelencia in Education, based in Washington, D.C. Murillo sympathizes with many students of the program and credits his own success to his college education. Murillo highlights the programs as his way to give back.

“It’s my opportunity to kind of pay it forward so that other students can learn what I learned and COMPACT continued on page 2

july 22, 2013

monday

Loan legislation awaits decision state

Adam Burkhart Staff Writer

Students are hoping for the best and preparing for the worst as Congress attempts to pass legislation reforming federal student loans after interest rates on federally subsidized student loans doubled on July 1.

The interest rate for subsidized Stafford loans jumped from 3.4 to 6.8 percent when previous legislation that incrementally reduced rates for subsidized loans expired.

Unsubsidized Stafford and Direct Plus Loans were not affected by the lapse of this legislation.

More than 8,500 San Diego State undergraduates took out subsidized loans during 2012-13.

A bipartisan group in the Senate has a proposal to reduce interest rates on all federal student loans by tying them to market rates, according to media reports. The plan would retroactively apply to loans already taken out by students after July 1.

The plan would tie interest rates to the annual yield on the 10-year Treasury note and add a certain percentage depending on the type of loan.

“There’s interest, I think, on both sides—both by the Democrats and the Republicans—to tie the interest rates to some market mechanism, as opposed to simply having it decided by Congress as a fairly arbitrary number,” SDSU’s Office of Financial Aid Associate Director Chris Collins said.

The latest Senate plan would set interest rates for all undergraduate loans made this year at approximately 3.86 percent, but rates may increase in future years as the economy improves and the yield on Treasury notes increases, Reuters reported Thursday.

If that happens, interest rates could rise above where they currently stand at 6.8 percent for subsidized and unsubsidized loans and 7.9 percent for Direct Plus Loans.

The Senate plan caps rates at 8.25 percent for undergraduates, 9.5 percent for graduates and 10.5 percent for parents taking out Direct Plus Loans, according to Reuters.

A bill already passed in the U.S. House of Representatives would also tie interest rates to the 10year Treasury note, with slight differences in markups and caps on rates.

The Senate plan is expected to go to a vote this week. If passed, it would then need to be reconciled with the bill in the U.S. House before it could become a law.

Budget cutbacks to education in California have limited space in its public universities, and with student loan interest rates expected to increase with the tentative congressional legislation, this could lead to fewer students who are dependent on loans choosing to go to school.

The Joint Economic Committee estimates the recent increase in subsidized Stafford loan interest rates will be an additional $2,600 LOANS continued on page 2

2 | news

Volume 100, issue 2 | monday, july 22, 2013 from BIKE SHARE page 1

“By having simple sustainability more prominently occurring throughout an urban area, you can raise its profile and raise awareness,” Briggs said. “Hopefully this will be part of a fleet of activities that the city is going to take to enhance the bikeability in San Diego.

If there’s any city that should be able to reduce carbon emissions through bike usage, it’s San Diego.”

Several SDSU students expressed their support for the new bike share initiative and said they would use the program when traveling downtown.

SDSU education graduate student Robert Isambert said he

would use the bike sharing program to save money and eliminate the hassle of fighting for parking downtown.

“I think it would be a good idea that would save a lot of people gas money,” Isambert said. “It would also be green and cut down on traffic.”

Bikes will be offered free for the first half hour or for $15 per day to members. The option to purchase a $20 monthly membership, or a $99 annual member pass will also be available, according to DecoBike.

Non-members will have the ability to rent a bike for $4 for 30 minutes, or for $7 an hour. The program will also be funded through sponsorship from various corporate groups, Hanshaw said.

from LOANS page 1

of debt on average to students who take 10 years to repay their loans.

“It’s always conceivable that … more affluent students have less to worry about with regard to financial questions,” Collins said.

Low-income students do however have greater access to grants and scholarships, including the Cal and Federal Pell Grant programs.

Roughly 53 percent of California State University system students graduate with no student loan debt, CSU Media Relations Manager Erik Fallis said.

CSUs maintain a strong return on investment for students because of relatively low tuition

costs, grant and scholarship options and general affordability, Fallis said.

Biology senior Joel Stegen uses federal subsidized and unsubsidized loans and a Pell Grant to attend school. He will graduate from SDSU this summer and expects his loans to enter repayment in about six months. He said he worries higher interest rates could add years to the time it takes him to pay his debt off if Congress does not do something.

“I think it’s kind of culturally accepted that we go into debt for education,” Stegen said. “I’m going to have, you know, $50,000 worth of debt for a bachelor’s degree. You know, it’s kind of crazy, but that’s the way it is here.”

from COMPACT page 1

I can have an impact on the next generation of Latino leaders,” Murillo said.

SDSU was represented by Abbott during the Back in Business forum held by the National Journal on June 19. SDSU was chosen as a leading innovator because of its comprehensive approaches to addressing the needs of underrepresented first-generation minority students and its efforts to help them go to college. The 13-year-old program has evolved since its inception. Abbott said she improves the program by utilizing data to make informed decisions to plan student initiatives.

Abbott participated in the forum along with other educators, government officials and business leaders.

In the discussion, Tom Rudin, vice president for career readiness

for the College Board, praised SDSU’s Compact for Success’ use of data to improve the program “It’s so great that you use data to drive what you’re trying to do, you use measurement as a tool to drive innovation, that’s exactly what we need more of actually,” Rudin said.

The Compact for Success program starts in seventh grade for eligible students. Mentors are sent to all SUHSD middle schools to serve as role models for younger students.

Former mentor Lyle Batalona recalls his role in the mentorship program in Chula Vista Middle School, where he was once a student.

“I wanted to give back to my community since there are not many opportunities there,” Batalona said. “I got really good feedback from the students.”

Murillo explains what the Compact for Success program looks for in mentors.

“We tell them, first and foremost, they’re role models for students,” Murillo said. “We really look for students who have a strong sense of social justice, because you can’t manufacture that.”

Current Compact for Success student Andrew Orellano expressed his gratitude for the program. He said the program has provided him with valuable information and opportunities while in college.

“I can’t believe that we have this resource in college, I mean Compact for Success was there since the beginning,” Orellano said.

The program was founded in 1999 by an agreement between former SDSU President Stephen Webber and former SUHSD superintendent Ed Brand. Their objective was to help high school students from the SUHSD attend college at SDSU.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME? The Daily Aztec is Now Hiring For Advertising Account Executives!

• • • • •

Gain Experience Work On Campus Earn Money Build a Network Make Friends

For more information about the position, email your resumé to: advertising@thedailyaztec.com, call (619) 594-7291, or visit www.thedailyaztec.com/jobs

features | 3

monday, july 22, 2013 | Volume 100, issue 2

Aztec racers do much more than cross finish line

spotlight

Caitlin Johnson Staff Writer

It’s a warm summer day in June. The humid Nebraskan air radiates off the pavement in waves as student teams make final adjustments to their racers before the competitions begin.

Hopes are high as teams fend off anxiousness, letting excitement settle in its place and with no intentions of quitting. The Formula SAE races are the perfect chance to gain attention and support from sponsors.

Just like the vibe of the event that took place on June 19-22 in Lincoln, Neb. Each year San Diego State’s own Aztec Racing team builds a regulation car from scratch to compete in the races. It’s a grueling and time-consuming project, but worth every effort once the tires hit the track.

“It was very intense,” Aztec Racing President Matt Dulog said. “It was very interesting to see the team come together in a synchronized fashion, like they were a real pro race team.”

As synchronized as the team was, the event was far from problem-free.

Bad weather and technical issues emerged prior to race time, but it was able to overcome those challenges and succeed.

“We had to replace our fuel system during competition in the rain,” said Dulog.

He described the team’s efforts to

fix the problem while working in the weather conditions, all while pushing to meet a tight deadline set by the event coordinators. In the end, hard work and dedication prevailed, and Aztec Racing’s vehicle was ready and raring to go.

The team’s successes were no small feat.

“We were able to compete in every single event for the first time ever for the history of the school,” Aztec Racing Vice President Simon Weber said. “We beat some of the top teams (in some competitions).”

Unlike traditional NASCAR races, the Formula SAE races are not head-to-head. Instead, teams compete independently within several categories and are given a final score based on performance. Out of 61 total participating teams, Aztec Racing came in at 49. Dulog and Weber consider this a great improvement and a step in the right direction for future competitions.

The races are intended to challenge students’ acquired skills. Each team must build a formula-style competition vehicle while adhering to a strict budget. (The tight budget is given to teams so they can market the car to a fictitious nonprofessional competitor.)

Each race is designed to test a specific technical aspect of the vehicle. From brakes to acceleration and everything in between, points are awarded based on the efficiency of the vehicle’s handling. Aesthetics are also judged, and elements such as

photo courtesy of aztec racing

presentation and cost are tallied into the final score.

It may seem like quite a bit of work, but the members of Aztec Racing live for the challenge. In the eight to 12 months it takes to build the car, the hands-on experience from planning to construction is a lesson learned that will serve well into the future.

“It’s also a good networking opportunity to one, get a job … but also to meet and collaborate with other schools,” Dulog said.

The competitions are just one way

Aztec Racing encourages its members to make the most out of their time on campus. There are plenty of opportunities for students of all majors to strengthen their social bonds and resumes, simply by participating in something they may already enjoy. While most members are engineering majors, Dulog emphasized there is a job for all backgrounds, such as marketing and finance.

The team is always looking for ways to improve and reach new goals for the next race. Dulog and Weber have high hopes for next year’s com-

petition, and are confident the team will improve. ”This year our goal was just to compete in everything,” Weber said.

“Next year we actually want to finish everything, which will help us get a better overall score.”

With the triumph of this year’s races behind them and the start of a fresh semester on the horizon, Aztec Racing has a bright outlook. Nothing nurtures camaraderie like coming together with a common goal, and the team is already on the right track to success.

New eatery serves up student and canine cuisine food

& drink

Bridget Chapman Staff Writer

The latest restaurant to come near San Diego State is making tails wag, literally. Lazy Dog Cafe is the newest addition to Mission Valley where people can enjoy fine dining at a reasonable price with their pooches by their side.

What makes this restaurant unique is its friendly atmosphere for dogs and college students alike.

Dogs can be found lounging outside on the dog-friendly patio as their owners sip drinks and enjoy a meal while basking in the sun. When the sun goes down, the bar thrives with its countless drink options and vivacious feel.

Lazy Dog Cafe General Manager Allen Lovett says it’s a restaurant that offers unbeatable deals accompanied by a fun atmosphere.

“There’s kind of a happy hour vibe going on at all times,” Lovett said.

Figuring out what to order is the most difficult part of the meal considering the various mouthwatering options. It’s one of those “we’re going to need another minute” types of restaurants with the expansive menu.

“We definitely like to have things that maybe are a little bit more interesting, a little out of the box,” Lovett said. “But maybe not so far that it’s going to scare guests away from trying something.”

The menu is graced by weekend brunch meals, small plates, lunch and dinner meals along with dessert options. The beauty of this menu is that it offers dishes for all types of eating preferences. Vegetarians, gluten-free eaters and meat lovers can all find something suitable to their likings.

Lazy Dog Cafe also carries its uniqueness into its scratch kitchen

bridget chapman , staff writer

where many of the meal’s ingredients are made right in the building.

Having this freshness amplifies the quality and taste of the dishes.

“We always like to have traditional dishes, but then have our own powerful spin on them,” Lovett said.

Alcoholic beverages are crafted in the kitchen by Lazy Dog Cafe’s executive chef. Lovett said the most popular item right now is the chef’s handcrafted 10th anniversary beer.

The chicken lettuce cups are a great starting point for the meal as they embody the freshness and high-quality taste promoted by the staff. Top them off with the sweet sesame soy sauce and the concoction

is sure to exhilarate all taste buds.

The sun-dried tomato pesto penne is a large pasta dish with so many delectable flavors, it will make dessert

SDSU English and television film and new media senior Nick Henggeler has worked at Lazy Dog Cafe since June and thinks the generous

Dogs can be found lounging outside on the dog-friendly patio as their owners sip drinks and enjoy a meal while basking in the sun. seem like an impossible task. However, the prepared diner will know to save room for the butter cake, which tastes similar to a giant warm butter cookie topped with ice cream and decorated with strawberries.

portions and affordable pricing make it shine when compared to competitors.

“I think what sets Lazy Dog (Cafe) apart from other restaurants is the fact that we make everything

from scratch, the variety of our menu is insane and it encapsulates everything you could want in a restaurant,” Henggeler said.

He said the restaurant is family friendly, but also has a fully equipped bar. He added that Sunday through Friday happy hour offers food and drinks that won’t drain the bank account. All happy hour options range from $3-6.

Even though the restaurant’s opening day was June 27, it can already be found packed on a Friday night.

Henggeler’s favorite item on the menu is the pot roast beef dip with Cajun fries.

“It is seriously the best,” he said.

SDSU management senior and Lazy Dog Cafe hostess Claire Goof said the restaurant’s hospitality is a key element in keeping customers satisfied.

“We may be a chain restaurant, but we want each customer to feel like this is his or her go-to neighborhood spot, where the server knows his or her name and special order,” Goof said.

She said they want all customers to feel like they can be “lazy dogs” while they eat and have their needs met. As a hostess she said she has already received positive feedback from customers as they request specific servers they’ve grown fond of.

For those who are not fans of eating alone or prefer the company of their pets to their human friends, they are more than welcome to bring along their canine companions.

“Whether its a Great Dane or a teacup Chihuahua, we will bring out a complimentary dog bowl of water and have a couple selections from our dog food menu,” Henggeler said.

The Mission Valley restaurant is the 12th location of the chain and with the expansive menu, affordable pricing, late nights and excellent service, it’s sure to not be the last.

E L Y T S E F I L C E T Z A E H T E LIV

0 4 $2ew low rates or n

GIFT CARD

N W O D O R E Z H T I W 0 5 1 $ + S AV E R O O M M AT E M AT C H I N G + C L O S E T O C A M P U S — W A L K T O C L A S S F U L LY F U R N I S H E D A P A R T M E N T S + I N D I V I D U A L L E A S E S

APPLY ONLINE TODAY @ AZTECCORNER.COM 619.582.4074 | 5504 MONTEZUMA ROAD, #116 RATES, FEES, DEADLINES & UTILITIES SUBJECT TO CHANGE | LIMITED TIME ONLY

entertainment | 5

Monday, july 22, 2013 | Volume 100, issue 2

Comic-Con remains an essential event for fanboys

comic-con

David Dixon Entertainment Editor

Wednesday: Preview Night My walk to the San Diego Convention Center on Comic-Con International’s Preview Night was full of anticipation. I looked forward to seeing many visually astonishing booths inside the Exhibit Hall. Unfortunately, it took a lot of time before I experienced anything memorable. I had to wait in a long line before receiving my press badge. While it was definitely worth it, I kept on wondering if there was any way I could get a “fast pass.”

It even took a lengthy amount of time just to enter the Exhibit Hall. Once the doors opened and I got inside there were plenty of sights to see, from a Mattel replica of the “Back to the Future Part II” hoverboard to a giant model of a Batman-themed Transformer.

Amid the long lines and chaos, one thing was for sure: Preview Night was an appetizer for the wild main course on display Thursday through Saturday.

Thursday: I arrived at Comic-Con about an hour early and the day quickly picked up momentum. My day began with a press tour at the Nintendo Gaming Lounge in the Marriott Hotel. Getting to watch demos of Nintendo Wii U games such as “The Wonderful 101” and “Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze” was a blast and both games look like old-fashioned fun.

Afterward, I roamed around the Exhibit Hall at the Convention Center for a little bit so I could attend panels. In the hall, I saw drawings of “The Big Bang Theory” characters and some freaky zombies promoting “The Walking Dead.”

My next destination was the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, where I attended a round table with actors from the Comedy Legends of TV Land panel. I’ve only attended a few press events in the past, and I always feel like a kid who’s going to meet Santa Claus whenever I get an opportunity like this.

I can now say that I have shared a table with William Shatner, Roseanne Barr and Wayne “Newman” Knight. My only complaint is that I did not get to ask about the possible love connection between Shatner and Betty White. She recently participated in his Comedy Central roast and they’ve acted together in “Hot in Cleveland” and “Boston Legal.”

After the panel, I went to a hidden gem of a room back at the Convention Center. Room 6BCF is not as well known as Hall H or Ballroom 20, but it provides an experience that’s just as entertaining. I got to sing along to the “Duck Tales” theme song at the Capcom panel, learn more about the craft of voice acting at the “I Know That Voice” panel and laugh hysterically every few seconds at the R-rated antics of Trey Parker and Matt Stone at the “South Park: The Stick of Truth” panel. Thursday didn’t have one dull moment from beginning to end.

Friday: I would say Friday was the day of the underdog. This was clear from the very beginning when

Crowds of pop culture fanatics crowd the San Diego Convention Center for Comic-Con International

I always feel like a kid who’s going to meet Santa Claus whenever I get an opportunity like this. I can now say that I have shared a table with William Shatner, Roseanne Barr and Wayne “Newman” Knight. “under the radar” guests dominated the “Stan Lee’s Web of Heroes” press conference and panel.

The iconic legend did have many one-liners up his sleeve, but much of the time was dedicated to showcasing talent associated with his YouTube channel, from the piano skills of Sonya Belousova to the clever animation of “Bad Days” co-creator Junaid Chundrigar.

Later that day, I spent many hours in Room 8. I got there early so I would not get closed out of “Your Opinion Sucks! Rotten Tomatoes Critics vs. Fans.” However, I ended up being equally impressed with the panels preceding it. Though I had zero expectations for them, I was floored while watching creative people discuss acclaimed comic book series.

The one that emotionally impacted me the most was “ElfQuest: 35 Years of Pointed Ears.”

Creators Wendy and Richard Pini gave a lively presentation that made me want to go out and read what I was missing. Toward the end, Richard mentioned how he and his wife did not have kids so that they could focus on “ElfQuest.” He followed this confession by saying avid readers of the comics are their children and his and Wendy’s legacy will continue through their fans. His comments reinforced why I love Comic-Con so much. When attendees witness humanity displayed by respected artists, the result can be a profound and moving experience.

Saturday: Saturday was extremely busy, and for many convention-goers it was the most overwhelming day of Comic-Con because of the large crowds and long lines.

However, those didn’t bother me, and if Friday was the day of the

underdog, today provided the opportunity to watch all kinds of stars cutting loose. Many actors and actresses spoke and promoted upcoming projects with energetic yet down-to-earth charisma.

In Ballroom 20, I watched panels for “The Simpsons” and “Family Guy.” What shocked me was how the “Family Guy” panel was significantly better. This was

because voice actors such as Alex Borstein, Seth Green and Patrick Warburton consistently offered very funny and thoughtful responses to audience questions.

While I always liked the “Family Guy” panels, the performers seemed in an especially good mood while discussing Seth MacFarlane’s animated sitcom.

One of my favorite experiences at Comic-Con was a roundtable for Seth Meyers’ new Internet cartoon comedy “The Awesomes.” The two cast members who stood out the most were “Saturday Night Live” members Taran Killam and Meyers. Neither were afraid to talk about their love of comic books and Comic-Con itself. By the end,

caitlin johnson , staff photographer

their nerdiness was on full display as Killam and Meyers sang the theme song to Disney’s “Adventures of the Gummi Bears” from different parts of the room.

It was obvious these gifted buddies were having the time of their lives. Their giddy enthusiasm was contagious.

If I had more space and time, I’d write about the Marvel Studios press panel, meeting various Internet stars, and seeing several major and minor celebrities in the Exhibit Hall. For more coverage, check out my tweets @DavidDixon2011, and be sure to read Caitlin Johnson’s blog posts on thedailyaztec.com. Information about Comic-Con can be found at Comic-Con.org.

6 | opinion

Volume 100, issue 2 | Monday, july 22, 2013

Summer courses almost offer what students need

education Mike Heral Staff Columnist

I

ask for advice less than I ask for directions—and I never ask for directions. I’ll walk holes into Home Depot’s floor before asking a worker where I can find flush valves. However, I’m deeply regretting not asking for advice before registering for San Diego State’s summer session. If I had, I may have learned funneling a full semester’s worth of material into six weeks is ridiculous. Students should be given a full 10-week summer session.

I viewed summer session as a way to keep on track to graduate in May 2014, especially because this is how SDSU advertises summer offerings.

I also thought the split six-week sessions, coupled with SDSU capping tuition and fees at six units, provided an excellent chance to double up on courses. I planned to take 12 units during the first session and another 12 units during the second. To me, that was like paying for two classes and getting four for free.

Luckily, I talked myself out of that plan.

I was lucky because I didn’t foresee the severity of the six-week session.

I chuckled when my Chemistry 100 professor said she expected 15 hours of extra work each week. By now, I’m used to professors warning students about allegedly demanding workloads, but those warnings are rarely true.

However, that was when I also had the luxury of a full semester where homework is spread out during 16 weeks and I can budget my time accordingly. It’s not true when classes

are shrunk to six, eight, or even 10 weeks. So, the first thing I learned about summer session is that I couldn’t coast. Homework is due every day.

This brings the second lesson: Skipping classes is not an option.

I’m taking five classes this summer.

In only one of those classes did the professor admit to shrinking the syllabus. Three classes are online, and the remaining two each meet four times per week. For each, there are 24 classroom meetings. A normal 16-week semester with three classes per week has 48 classes, meaning each six-week class is the equivalent of two regular semester’s classes.

Therefore, if a student misses one class, he or she actually missed the equivalent of two classes. Miss two, and the student has now missed four classes. It takes more dedication to succeed in the summer than it does during a normal semester.

This leads to the third problem for summer students. Traditionally, students get jobs during the summer.

Students unaware of how a truncated schedule works may find themselves struggling to balance the demands of a course requiring 15 hours of off-class work per week with the demands of an employer. Or, as one of my professors said, “This class is a summer job.”

The fourth problem is summer session courses might not keep students on track to graduate. Again, the problem is a schedule that’s simply too short. For example, I need three foreign language courses and I intended to take my first this summer. This plan evaporated when my professor said six weeks wasn’t enough time to prepare us for the next course if we didn’t already know at least a little of

the language we were supposed to be learning. My readers know I barely grasp English, much less another language.

SDSU administration should want students to get a chance to enjoy the summer break. Theoretically, sixweek courses are offered precisely to give students a chance to salvage some of their vacation time. However, if a student wants to stay on track, they can’t worry about using their free time for anything other than homework. And older students, such as my-

self, just want to receive our diplomas while we are still employable or before we die, whichever comes first.

It’s also odd that a six-week course receives full credit. Anyone transferring from an institution using the quarter system knows credits don’t transfer in full to semester system institutions. It’s perplexing when an eight-week course completed at an academic institution employing the quarter system doesn’t transfer completely because the receiving institution doesn’t believe the student

2013 STAFF MEMBERS

learned as much as they would in a full semester system. Meanwhile, the same institution allows full credit for a class lasting only six weeks.

Therefore, SDSU would serve students better by offering more 10week courses. Students would still get one week of vacation on each side of the session.

Take it from a guy who is better at giving advice than receiving it: Next summer, apply suntan lotion liberally but take summer classes conservatively.

The Daily Aztec is an independent, student-run newspaper published regularly Monday through Thursday, when classes are in session, and distributed on the campus of San Diego State.

Leonardo Castaneda...............Editor in Chief

Kenneth Leonard.................Opinion Editor

Email: editor@thedailyaztec.com

Email: opinion@thedailyaztec.com

Ana Ceballos.........................................Managing Editor

Monica Linzmeier................... Photo Editor

Email: me@thedailyaztec.com

Email: photo@thedailyaztec.com

Hannah Beausang..................................News Editor

Sofie Casillas............................... Copy Chief

Email: news@thedailyaztec.com

Email: copy@thedailyaztec.com

David Dixon.........................Entertainment Editor Email: entertainment@thedailyaztec.com

Jesse Castaneda........................Ad Director Email: advertising@thedailyaztec.com

Adriana Bush..................................Sports Editor Email: sports@thedailyaztec.com

Victor Escoto................................Web Editor Email: design@thedailyaztec.com

Elisse Miller.................................Features Editor

Kaiem Majed.............................

Email: features@thedailyaztec.com

Email: design@thedailyaztec.com

Art Director

STAY CONNECTED

TO THE DAILY AZTEC! > WEB thedailyaztec.com Read articles, blogs, and explore more content than you’ll find in our print edition. > TWITTER twitter.com/thedailyaztec Keep up with The Daily Aztec by receiving up-to-the-minute updates. > FACEBOOK facebook.com/dailyaztec Become a friend on Facebook and never be out of the loop. > YOUTUBE youtube.com/dailyaztecvideo Check out the latest sports and news videos and see the action for yourself.

Or pick up a printed copy of the paper at one of the many paper racks located throughout the SDSU campus!

News you can’t refuse. www.thedailyaztec.com/categor y/news

SPORTS | 7

monday, july 22, 2013 | Volume 100, issue 2

Aztec football welcomes 2013 freshmen recruits

football Terence Chin Staff Writer

Coming off a Mountain West Conference championship season in 2012, there’s much more to look forward to as the Aztecs prepare to take the field this fall. After finishing with a 7-1 conference play record, along with appearing in three-straight bowl games, the expectations have continued to rise for the Aztec football program these past few seasons.

Three Aztecs were selected in this year’s NFL draft, losing key players on both the offensive and defensive ends. It will be up to the returning players to continue San Diego State’s football success and the future of this year’s diverse freshman recruiting class.

This past February on National Letter-of-Intent Day, SDSU football head coach Rocky Long addressed the media, saying he honestly wouldn’t know if many of the 2013 freshman recruits would play immediately.

Coaches can brag about their recruiting class, now that they’re signed, to tell you the truth, you wont know if they can play for a couple years.

Head Coach rocky long

“Coaches can brag about their recruiting class, but now that

monica linzmeier , photo editor

The Aztecs finished last season with a 7-1 conference play record and a share of the MW title.

they’re signed, to tell you the truth, you won’t know if they can play for a couple years,” Long said.

This class is composed of 12 defensive and 12 offensive players all recruited from 11 different states, 21 of which are incoming freshman football recruits.

“We don’t care what the scouting service’s evaluation is, we don’t care how many `stars’ they get, we evaluate for the kids that will fit into our program,” Long said. “I think we’ve done a good job over the last three years. This class here, I think we’ve done a really good job of evaluating, but you’ll find out when they start playing …”

Freshman Offensive Player to Watch: If there is a freshman player to watch this year, you may want to keep your eyes on wide receiver Julius Wilson. On top of being a wide receiver, Wilson may be given the opportunity to play some special teams because of his blazing speed.

He recorded a time of 4.4 seconds for his 40-yard dash and according to Rivals.com from Yahoo Sports, Wilson is listed as a threestar recruit coming from Culver City High School. Wilson also received offers from powerhouse Pac-12 schools, including the universities of California, Berkley and

Los Angeles in addition to Washington State.

Freshman Defensive Player to Watch: On the defensive end, a freshman to look out for in the future is defensive back Kalan Montgomery from Dominguez High School in Compton. Montgomery is also a three-star recruit according to Rivals.com, and was offered scholarships from universities of Arizona, Nevada, and Hawaii before deciding to become an Aztec.

As a defensive back, he has the potential to fulfill the role of former Aztec defensive back Leon McFadden, who was recently

drafted to the NFL by the Cleveland Browns.

Local Freshmen to Watch Along with the 2013 freshman recruiting class, the Aztecs landed three local recruits from San Diego. They include Mira Mesa High School football standouts defensive back Trey Lomax and wide receiver Addison Morrow.

The Aztecs also signed perhaps their most intriguing local player Fred Melifonwu from Lincoln High School. Melifonwu is a 6-foot-5, 210-pound outside linebacker and three-star recruit who received offers from rival MWC schools University of New Mexico, Nevada and San Jose State before choosing SDSU. On national signing day, Long described the local players he was able to recruit saying, “All three of them have a lot of upside to them.

They’re good athletes that have played on both sides of the ball … all three of the San Diego guys can play multiple positions.”

Coming Up The Aztecs will open the 2013 season next month welcoming Eastern Illinois University on Aug. 31, before hitting the road to Columbus, Ohio to face the mighty Ohio State Buckeyes on Sept. 7.

Conference play will begin on Oct. 4 when the Aztecs first welcome Nevada to Qualcomm Stadium.

Being the defending MWC co-champions, it’s no secret that the expectations are on the rise for Aztec football, as fans should continue to expect a tradition of winning.

ROOM 4 RENT

Adriana Bush Sports Editor

Women’s Basketball Almost a month after the retirement of San Diego State’s women’s basketball coach Beth Burns, SDSU Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Jim Sterk hired Louisiana State assistant women’s basketball coach and El Capitan High School alumna Stacie Terry to the job.

For the past two months, Terry has not only had to focus on trying to replace four key senior starters, but she’s also had to focus on filling her staff vacancies. The first of her hires was Jesse Clark as an assistant coach. Clark was previously the assistant coach at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga and has more than 15 years of women’s basketball coaching experience.

With Clark as assistant coach, the Gaels made four consecutive appearances to the Women’s National Invitational Tournament, one of which included a quaterfinal appearance.

In late June, Terry added Aisha Veasley as the second assistant coach. Veasely had a successful playing career at the University of California, Los Angeles before becoming an assistant coach at the University of Tulsa and the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Just last Thursday, Terry finally filled her last staff vacancy with the hiring of a third assistant coach Ciara Carl. As a former star point guard for Point Loma Nazarene, Carl holds the school record in assists and ranks second

in steals. Afterwards, she became an assistant women’s basketball coach for Metro State in Denver and Cal Poly Pomona.

Last season, the Aztecs had one of their most successful seasons in program history, winning 27 games for a school record.

Track and Field SDSU triple jumper Shanieka Thomas has been jumping her way into record books throughout the year and during the summer hasn’t slowed down one bit.

In June, Thomas competed in the Jamaican National Championships and just two weeks ago Thomas represented her home country of Jamaica in the World University Games in Kazan, Russia where she went on to finish sixth with a jump 44 feet, 4 3/4 inches out of 12 entrants.

Winning the event was Ekaterina Koneva from Russia with a jump of 48-7 1/2 inches and second place was earned by Anna Jagaciak from Poland with a mark of 46-7 1/2 inches and coming in third was Carmen Cristina Toma from Romania with a jump of 46-4 3/4 inches.

Men’s Basketball Last month, it was announced that the SDSU men’s basketball team would be competing in the new multiteam tournament called the Wooden Legacy instead of the Anaheim Classic during the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend.

Just last Wednesday the Aztecs found out what team they would play against for the opening game of the tournament: the College of Charleston on Thursday, Nov. 28.

The Cougars finished their past zona State matchup.

Some of the other schools that season with a 24-11 record and return four of its five starters while will participate in the tournament the Aztecs finished with a 23-11 include Marquette University and record and return two of their the University of Miami, which starters, junior forward JJ O’Brien were NCAA Championship participants. and senior guard Xavier Thames.

However, Charleston shouldn’t take the Aztecs lightly. Two years ago head coach Steve Fisher had only one returning starter and SDSU managed to come away with a share of the Mountain West Conference regular season title and earned an at large berth in the NCAA tournament.

Also, this past season was SDSU’s school record fourthstraight appearance in the NCAA tournament and in the past three seasons the Aztecs have managed to make it past the second round twice.

If SDSU beats Charleston, it will face www.thedailyaztec.com off against the winner of the Creighton University and Ari-

Studio Room. Del Cerro. Walk to SDSU. Furnished. $625. Paid utilities. Negotiable. 619-582-8412. _______________________________ The Daily Aztec does not endorse or support and has no affiliation with the products or services offered in the Classifieds section.

share

how to

the daily aztec with your

friends:

1. Read an article.

2. Tell a friend.

3. Repeat.

8 | BACKPAGE

Could I really be an Enoch?

fiction

Christian Benavides Staff Writer

W

e were driving up north from San Diego. We didn’t know where we were going but it’s summer, so no one ever really knows. Maybe it’s the restlessness born from the heat but whatever it is, Samantha and I needed out.

I looked at the clock; it was 5 p.m. The sunlight finally seemed to be weakening as the dust from the dry fields surrounding this one narrow highway, hung low across the horizon. For a couple hours now, we had been driving through that part of California where there seems to be more cows than people. And although it could be a pleasant change, the lack of human life seemed haunting.

A loud sigh broke my gaze from the black road and I turned to Samantha. The longer strands of her light brown hair gained movement and the tips stood up, free from the heat and the day’s sweat.

She was wearing my The Smiths T-shirt with some old jeans she cut into shorts.

“What’s wrong?” I said, although it wasn’t the first of her sighs that had randomly fallen out of her mouth and shaken the car.

“This is so depressing,” she said.

Samantha was talking about the book I had told her to read: “Winesburg, Ohio.” It is a novel written in a short-story cycle form that is based on several characters, all living in Winesburg, Ohio, and dealing with loneliness and isolation.

“Well, you don’t have to read it,” I responded, obviously irritated.

“Geez, I didn’t say I didn’t like it,” she said. “All these towns we’ve passed are so empty. How

can people stand it here?”

She grabbed a hair tie and tied her hair back. Without saying anything else, she put her feet up on the dashboard and went back to reading. I looked at her hand and at the bracelet I had given her on Christmas last year. Since then, it had never left her wrist. I wanted to put my hand out and hold hers, but something held me back. We’d been together for a year now, a new record for me.

I don’t think I’d ever lasted more than a month before everything just felt too heavy and I called it quits.

I looked at the book again suddenly remembering a character called Enoch. He ends up growing old, lonely and all, because he can’t stay in a relationship because of his big ego and self-centered tendencies. At one point he even creates imaginary friends.

When I read this story, I swear I felt as if something came out from deep within me and grabbed a hold of my throat. I really do love Samantha, but how much longer will I be able to hold it together?

“Hey, what’s wrong?” Samantha said.

Thirty minutes had passed.

I suddenly felt as if my Toyota Camry had shrunken. Here was my car, in the middle of huge empty fields and we had no idea where we were going. I needed to stop, quick.

“Yeah, just a little tired,” I answered.

“Do you want me to drive?”

“No. Listen, are you hungry?

A sign just said there’s a Subway two exits from here.”

“We might as well stop,” she said absentmindedly.

“Who knows when we’ll find another place to eat.”

The speedometer increased to 80 mph. I felt a drop of sweat going down my neck. Could I really be an Enoch? Would I really be able to leave Samantha just be-

cause I’m afraid to have my ego harmed?

After a minute, I exited the highway. The Subway was on the right side of the exit ramp. As we entered the parking lot, I noticed there was only one person there.

It was one of those gas stations that also contained a couple of fast-food places. The one person there was a middle-aged woman, probably around 40. She was putting gas in her minivan, but her clothing looked a bit out of the norm for an empty place like this. Maybe, I thought, she was also running away.

I parked the car and rushed into the building. I went into the single unisex restroom, put the toilet seat down and rested my head on the wall next to it.

My knuckles turned white as I squeezed them tightly, trying to avoid some sort of breakdown.

Then I heard the ring from the station’s door. Damn it! I forgot about Samantha.

I quickly got out of the restroom. She wasn’t inside so I rushed to the car. The keys were still in the ignition but Samantha wasn’t in the car. Her bags were gone. The book was gone. Everything of hers was gone, as if she was never here. I took out my cell phone and called her. After two rings, she answered.

“Hey, it’s about time you call!” she said.

“Where are you?”

“Umm, why do you sound so nervous. Are you OK?” “I’m fine, but where the heck are you?”

“I’m at my house. How’s your trip going?”

My phone cracked as it hit the pavement. I could still hear her voice, but I didn’t want to know what she was saying. I got in the car and drove back onto the highway. The stars began breaking through the orange sky and I felt lonelier than ever.

Volume 100, issue 2 | monday, juLY 22, 2013

HOROSCOPE

by Nancy Black, Tribune Media Services

Today’s Birthday (7/22/13) - Home, family and career are key this year. This month you’re the star, and income flows ... cache some. Expand horizons through direct experience or study. Budgets and production plans for creative collaborations come together easily through mid-August. Provide for family while avoiding new debt. Resolve past differences, and strengthen bonds. Count your blessings.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 7 - Advance your agenda. Grow your savings. Your work is more fun this month, with love in the air. Venus enters Virgo, so enjoy analyzing and creating art, beauty and harmony. Relax and enjoy.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 9 - You’re even luckier in love for the next few weeks. Spend quality time with family, and balance it with productive career time.

Cleverly avoid an argument with diplomacy.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 8 - You’re more domestic for the next phase, although part of you really wants an adventure. Figure out how to have both. Act on a hunch. Get philosophical. Get yourself a little treat.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 7 Stay frugal with resources. Sort what to buy and borrow or make yourself. A visit to the library could be in order. Sell stuff you don’t really need, or trade for what you do.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 9 - You can learn and earn more than you thought possible this month. Partnerships seem empowered. Get social; you’re naturally charming. Write it all down.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 9 - Go through the data and gather valuable

work information. A change could turn out for the better. Your luck in love has just improved immensely. Your creativity flourishes.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is an 8 - Don’t push too hard. For the next month, you’re involved in a public conversation, so practice your parade wave. Enjoy the arts, beauty and analyzing details of solid craftsmanship.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 9 - Resist temptation. You’re quite popular this month; you can really advance your agenda if you maintain discipline. The gentle approach works best. Work with talented artists and thinkers. Clean up at home.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 7 - Assume authority this month, with discipline. It’s prime vacation time. Accept another’s idea. Work priorities are shifting.

Don’t accept every invitation. You may find yourself analyzing relationships. Fascinating study captivates.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 9 - Sort through the data carefully. It’s easier to travel this month; as well as to invest and make money grow. Pay close attention to navigate a turning point with the Aquarius Full Moon. Priorities change.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - Your friends are eager to help. Review the numbers this month; it’s easier to save. Get closer to your partner. Gain authority with the Full Moon in your sign. Make positive changes.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 7 - There’s more available than you realize.

Compromise comes easier; focus on your work as it’s getting busy. A new phase begins.

You may feel more sensitive. Passions arouse.

Take notes.

©2013, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

SUDOKU

by The Mepham Group, Tribune Media Services

Difficulty Level: 1 out of 4 Instructions: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9.

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com ©2013, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

through our lens

FREAKIN’ TWEET! CROSSWORD

GENERAL INFORMATION

:

FOR ALL OTHER CONTACTS

,

PLEASE VISIT

Staff Photographer Elizabeth Santo caught this snapshot of a butterfly about thedailyaztec.com 619.594.4199 to take flight.

PLEASE NOTE :

The views expressed in the written works of this issue do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Daily Aztec. Letters to the editor can be sent to letters@thedailyaztec.com

Across 1 “__ to you, buddy!”

5 Mon. or Jan., e.g.

9 Ringo of the Fab Four 14 Fan club focus 15 Painfully tender 16 __ for: sublime 17 Genre with listener participation 19 Cook in an oven 20 Clean air org.

21 Olympics sword 22 Harboring a grudge 23 Milkshake insert 25 Homeric protagonist 27 Den piece 29 Pitching whiz 30 Outfielder Suzuki 33 Mexican Mrs. 34 Ice cream drink 38 Some fight endings, and a hint to the word endings in 17-, 25-, 46- and 60-Across 41 Tonsillitis-treating MDs 42 Have a bite of 43 Boozehounds 44 “__ Believer”: Monkees hit 45 “Class dismissed” sound 46 Three-time Masters winner 51 Very very 55 Like some clothing patches 56 Grand-scale tale 58 Have a bite 59 Eva of Argentina 60 Enter forcibly, as a home 62 Leaving nothing out 63 “__ your pardon” 64 Rain like crazy 65 Singer Furtado 66 Keyboard goof 67 Avg. levels Down 1 Web destinations 2 Get used to new conditions 3 Place for a dental crown 4 Broad-antlered deer 5 On the double, in memos

/ THEDailyAztec

by Rich Norris & Joyce Lewis, Tribune Media Services

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 6 Latino corner store 7 Prickly shrub 8 Vintage touring car 9 Swing and a miss, say 10 Incisor, for one 11 See 61-Down 12 Choir platform 13 Nostalgically styled 18 Edit considerably 22 All-purpose answer to “Why?” 24 Sneaker brand 26 Lawman Wyatt 28 Butler’s underling 30 Prez after Harry 31 MSNBC rival 32 Sweltering 33 Pig’s place 34 Racing shell 35 Sounds of surprise

36 Barely passing grade 37 Donkey 39 __ Mountains: Eurasian border range 40 “Can’t catch a break” 44 “Wouldn’t that be nice!”

45 She lost her sheep 46 __ the bud 47 Goodnight girl of song 48 Snorkeler’s vista 49 Hillock 50 Churchill Downs event 52 Basis of a creed 53 Given four stars, say 54 Tiny elemental components 57 Othello’s confidant 60 Bridle mouthpiece 61 With 11-Down, “See you then!”