08-28-2012

Check out Eric Dobko’s take on the San Diego Lantern Festival on pg. 4

THE NEWSPAPER OF SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1913 VOLUME 99, ISSUE 3

TUESDAY AUGUST 28, 2012

Software created to retain students Donna P. Crilly Staff Writer

A collaborative software program developed by San Diego State professor Robert Briggs could make learning more efficient and engaging, studies suggest.

In the mid-‘90s, Briggs used an early version of the software with students at Orr Elementary School in Washington, D.C. He was looking for an answer to the question, “Why do I care?”

According to Briggs, many of the students at Orr Elementary were not worried about math problems or history. What concerned them were real-life, day-to-day problems.

Therefore, the students used Briggs’ software to develop a learning regimen.

“What I had to do was find something that they cared about,” Briggs said.

As a result, Briggs discovered how to approach teaching students through cooperative study.

“They spent an hour online debating whether they should study history,” Briggs continued.

Through collaborative technology, Briggs learned what types of questions engaged students. He said he gave the students a stake in what they were learning by con-

SDSU honor society ranks top in nation Elisse Miller Staff Writer

SDSU Professor Briggs created a software that is meant to engage students and encourage them to graduate.

necting subjects such as history and math to problems the students dealt with directly.

Compared to students from other classrooms, Briggs said his students experienced a higher retention rate after using the software.

However, Briggs says his software applies to more than elementary-aged school children; it’s been used for college students as well.

In April, the collaborative software was tested under the supervision of professor Gwendolyn

paige nelson, photo editor

Kolfschoten at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.

A group of first-year business students used the software to analyze complex technological problems SOFTWARE continued on page 2

Associated Students execs take a paycut

San Diego State’s Mortar Board chapter gained attention this summer as it became the very first to win the prestigious Ruth Weimer Mount Conference Excellence Award for a second time.

The award, first introduced in 2002, seeks to honor Ruth Weimer Mount, former president of Mortar Board, Inc., and the Mortar Board National Foundation.

Mortar Board is an honor society for students excelling in the areas of scholarship, leadership and service who have reached senior status at the university with at least a 3.2 GPA. Every year, the Mortar Board hosts a national conference at which selected chapters are recognized for their achievements through several awards. SDSU ranked higher than 95 other chapters, making this accomplishment no small feat.

MORTAR BOARD continued on page 2

ARC holds slam dunk contest J. Hutton Marshall Managing Editor

Associated Students join together at a weekly executive meeting to discuss plans for the new school year. All A.S. executives received a small pay cut.

Donna P. Crilly Staff Writer

The San Diego State Associated Students Executive Officers will receive an 8 percent wage reduction for the 2012-13 academic year, according to A.S. Vice President of External Affairs Tom Rivera said the five executive officers voted to decrease their annual pay in an effort to send a positive message to the SDSU community.

A.S. executive officers’ wages are equal to the cost of attendance for a single SDSU undergraduate student living off-campus, according to Section 25 of the A.S. bylaws. Wages are determined by the SDSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships and

j. hutton marshall , managing editor

include tuition and registration fees, living expenses, books and supplies.

Because of recent yearly tuition increases at the California State Uni-

“We didn’t feel it was appropriate for executive officers to be getting raises every time,” Rivera said.

“It doesn’t send the right message. It

We didn’t feel it was appropriate for executive officers to be getting raises every time. It doesn’t send the right message.

Tom Rivera Vice President of External Affairs versity campuses, A.S. wages also increased to match. However, A.S. opted to reduce its executive officers’ wages.

doesn’t make people comfortable to talk about. It’s not good.”

A.S. Executive Director Dan Cornthwaite says the executive officers

aren’t accepting the full compensation because it could be a potential conflict for A.S. to protest tuition increases and cuts to CSU campuses, while receiving financial compensation for it.

“They’re showing some sensitivity to the fact that it’s not easy for students to do that,” Cornthwaite said.

“They should not benefit on the back end by getting the benefit of the tuition increase by having that added to their pay.”

The projected cost of attendance for SDSU undergraduates living offcampus is $24,362, according to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. A.S. Executive Officers will receive $26,982 after the wage reduction, according to Cornthwaite.

The Aztec Recreation Center hosted its “ARC ‘til Dark” on Sunday, attracting incoming students to eat free pizza, watch martial arts demos and play games. Part of the evening’s events included the ARC’s 2012 Slam Dunk Contest.

Socially awkward freshmen outfitted in their newly purchased SDSU garb packed into the ARC’s basketball stadium, filling the bleachers to the brim, lining up around the courts and straining their necks for what they apparently perceived as equivalent to the NBA finals.

Amateur players were invited to compete for free ARC memberships by performing their most dazzling dunks. Associated Students President Rob O’Keefe, A.S. Vice President Chanelle McNutt and San Diego State basketball players Jamaal Franklin and DeShawn Stephens judged the contest.

“I’m going to go over some rules on how we’ll be scoring,” O’Keefe said at the start of the competition. “We’re going to be judging dunks on a 1-10 scale, and that’s it.”

The host, who was, with infallible fashion sense, wearing a tuxedo T-shirt under a sport coat, pumped up the crowd of overeager residence hall dwellDUNK CONTEST continued on page 4

2

NEWS

Tuesday August 28, 2012 The Daily Aztec

CORRECTION: In Monday’s article, “Africana Studies calls off boycott,” it was stated a senate council that included Provost Nancy Marlin made an appeal to President Elliot Hirshman regarding the Africana Studies Department hiring an additional faculty member. It was actually the Africana Studies Department that made an appeal.

World Beat paige nelson, photo editor

paige nelson, photo editor

Hurricane Warning Evacuations were ordered for citizens of Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi as Hurricane Isaac nears the regions. According to officials, Hurricane Katrina was a much stronger hurricane, but emergency evacuations are still protocol. Unfortunately for these states, it has only been seven years since the devastating Hurricane Katrina.

Neil Armstrong Death The first man on the moon, Neil Armstrong, passed away at the age of 82 last Saturday. The Iconic commander of the July 1969 moon mission Apollo 11 will never be forgotten.

Obama or Romney

from SOFTWARE page 1

San Diego State students on their first day back of 2012’s fall semester.

antonio zaragoza , editor -in- chief

and develop solutions regarding real estate management.

“They had to brainstorm solutions on how to organize, prioritize and plan real estate projects within the university,” Kolfschoten said.

Kolfschoten said many of the buildings on campus need maintenance.

Kolfschoten found the collaborative software efficient. She said students were able to quickly identify the problems and offer solutions while remaining engaged.

According to her, Kolfschoten said although the software can save a lot of time and money if used properly, there are still minor issues.

One of the software’s early challenges was its complexity as it required expert supervision to operate and was difficult to explain.

Kolfschoten and Briggs said the current version of the software is simpler, easier to use and “much from MORTAR BOARD page 1

“It means that we are the top chapter in the United States. We had 22 project service excellence awards and the average is about three to four. We have events that we’ve been doing for over 20 years now and we are the top chapter for being able to plan these, execute these, be successful in them,” President of SDSU Mortar Board Allison Pierce said.

Kayleigh Neel, former president and current advisor of SDSU Mortar Board, said it requires a lot of dedication, but it pays off. “We added new events and really made sure our members knew we could do this—we could be the first chapter to get this award twice. Because our members were so excited about it, they put in a lot of effort.”

While hard work is certainly a key component in their immense success, Mortar Board also benefits from its advisors, specifically Dr. Jane Smith.

“Jane has been the visionary, driving force who’s put a huge amount of time and effort into Mortar Board. Jane really is responsible for the sustained excellence of this chapter that she puts together,” said Dr. Geoffrey Chase, Dean of

The presidential election is quickly approaching and the Pew Research Center’s Global Attitudes Project conducted a survey to see which countries were in favor of President Barack Obama’s reelection. According to the survey, 92 percent of France, 89 percent of Germany and 73 percent of Britain’s population want Obama reelected. Although Obama is the European favorite, only 31 percent of China and 35 percent of Mexico want Obama to run a second term.

Though these polls do not affect the election, it is helpful to see the relationships our current president has developed with other countries.

—Compliled by News Editor Tara Milspaugh

more available and approachable.”

The current obstacle, according to DePaul University professor Ruth Ter Bush, is to show teachers the value of the product.

“With teachers, it’s got to be dirt simple in a box, so that overcoming the cognitive effort to learn how to use the software is really low,” Ter Bush said.

Another issue Ter Bush identified was designing the software to be more attractive to the modern-day technology user.

“It’s always a challenge with software,” Ter Bush said. “When you’re developing software, you develop what you currently have and then technology moves on from you.”

Ter Bush will run a “stress test” of the program on students at DePaul University in Chicago this fall.

According to Briggs and Ter Bush, the software will undergo more studies and tests before it’s ready for commercial use.

Undergraduate Studies.

“She’s been with the chapter forever. Jane brought it to where it is today. She’s that one reason why we are doing so well,” Pierce said.

Smith attributes success to the other longterm advisors and, ultimately, the students.

“I think one of the reasons why we got the award the second time is because this year it was just an extraordinary group; they were so involved and they were determined that they wanted to get the award,” Smith said.

Mortar Board will continue to try and maintain its legacy this year.

“It’s mostly the outgoing officers just getting the incoming officers really excited about Mortar Board and letting them know the level of success we’ve had in the past and that makes them want to succeed just as much as the year before.

People know it’s such an honor to be selected because there are only 40 members selected each year,” Neel said.

Neel has the utmost confidence in the incoming leaders.

“They are willing to learn and help Mortar Board do those events and be the best chapter, or one of the best chapters, in the nation,” Neel said.

FEATURES

Tuesday August 28, 2012 the daily aztec

3

Festival lights up Professor embraces leadership San Diego skyline

These hand-made silk lanterns feature intricate designs that give each one an authentic look and feel.

antonio zaragoza , editor in chief

Eric Dobko

sized hamster balls floating on top of an inflatable pool. I was born a decade too soon.

I came to City Heights not knowI spoke with Lee Vincent, ing what to expect of the 4th an- founder of the attraction. “I nual San Diego Lantern Festival. started Blue Elephant Bubble I anticipated that it would be Carnivale about a year ago when another one of those ceremonies I saw something similar along where people simultaneously the outskirts of Paris. I had the send lanterns out into the sky, pool custom made, thirty feet in hot air balloon style, like some diameter, and each bubble is six mass release of potential fire feet in diameter with a weight hazards. Luckily, for both the capacity of 300 pounds,” Vincity of San Diego and any unob- cent said. “I’m a grandfather, servant birds in the area, the lan- and I couldn’t be happier that all terns were all grounded and not I get to do all day is watch little to be used as flare guns. kids have a good time.”

Strung across the festival like The festival’s purpose, other oriental Christmas lights, the than to make visitors nauseous lanterns were a lovely sight to with a colossal, pendulum-style behold. The Vietnamese decora- ride called “The Loop,” is to tions were much more appealing aid in Little Saigon’s community to the eye than the Weinerschnit- development and revitalization zel next door. To learn more strategy for the City Heights about this luminous ritual, I area. By bringing in more local spoke with Frank Vuong, chair- tourism, the foundation plans to man of the festival’s host, the boost the local business economy Little Saigon Foundation. and, therefore, the quality of life “The lanterns we feature are for its residents. specifically from the ancient “City Heights has been known town of Hoi An, a unique town for its more or less blighted condiin central Vietnam with lots of tion for a long time,” Vuong said. cultural beauty and history,” “There have been many efforts to Vuong said. “The lanterns are improve City Heights throughout special, as they are all hand- the years, but the speed of the efmade from silk and embroidered fort is somewhat slow, and a lot of with intricate designs. I don’t people want to invest into this area think there are any other lantern to see it better.” festivals like it in southern Cali“Areas like Little Italy, Old fornia, so I think we are pretty Town, or North Park, they’ve all unique in that sense.” been branded as a place to be,” Like a traditional carnival, the he continued. “Branding the event had rides, area as a culbooths, music tural district and eccentric and a tourist carnies. There Luckily, for both the city destination is were jewelry, our strategy for flowers, fresh of San Diego and any revitalization.” pho cuisine, unobservant birds in Overall, my lion dancing visit to City the area, the lanterns and those imHeights was possible carni- were all grounded ... quite enjoyval games noable. Winning body ever wins. a free month of They even had jujitsu classes the classic carousel ride, which probably had a good deal to with I’ve always found a bit unset- that. I did feel the comfort from tling—not only do we impale the the area’s friendly people and horses with giant copper poles, good-natured community, debut we force them to run in a spite the area’s initally questionnever-ending circle while being able appearance. I’m sure if the ridden by complete strangers.

Little Saigon Foundation continHowever, there was one ride ues to host more charming events that made all of my wildest such as this one, in due course dreams come true. In front of me the area will start to shine in a were half a dozen children blun- different light. dering around in giant, overStaff Writer

The smile wrinkles on Professor William Snavely’s face personify his love for teaching and his students.

paige nelson, photo editor

vely made a point to change that.

He gathered the city council, held a Staff Writer retreat and tried to identify the biggest problems for the community.

Professor William Snavely be“Anything that came up, we lieves leadership is all about dejudged them against our goals cision-making. Simply put, good and what we were trying to do, leaders make mindful choices and so at the end of that period, and poor leaders make mindless I felt like we had accomplished choices. In the classroom, he tries something,” Snavely added. to instill this idea in his students, He continued on his path of as they learn about leadership leadership and community inand communication. volvement when he came to San Snavely currently serves as the Diego State in 2007. He has been director of the School of Coma member and chairperson of the munication and teaches a leaderacademic senate and even started ship in communications course, the study abroad program for the which allows him to incorporate communications department. Evmany of his own life experiences erything that he teaches, he said, into the example he sets for his he tries to implestudents. Alment for his stuthough many dents. professors use “If I have enpersonal expethusiasm and riences to attempt to con- The students are awesome. I love students and I really care about what I’m nect with stu- every year there’s another group, and I always teaching, then dents, few have my students actually lived expect them to be fantastic. And typically they tend to also be what they are live up to my expectations. enthusiastic and teaching. DurProfessor William Snavely to care about ing his time as Director of the School of what they’re a professor at Communication learning,” SnaMiami Univervely said. “And sity in Ohio, I really care about my students Snavely was heavily involved in scholarship. the community, serving as both a “So, because I was in debate and what they’re thinking and so city council member and as may- and speech, why not?” Snavely when they talk to me, I listen to or of the city. said. “I found out I loved it be- them. I try to apply what I know “Some students approached me cause it’s about human behavior about communication to those inbecause they felt like they weren’t and understanding people, and teractions.”

But the biggest challenge in being treated fairly by the city it’s something that you interact council,” Snavely said. “I got up with every day. You cannot not teaching and reaching his students, Snavely said, is not anythere and spoke and a number of communicate, right?” people listened to what I had to During his 30 years in Ohio, thing that happens in the classsay. It was, I guess, influential at he served two terms as mayor in room. Rather, he said, the state’s the time and they approached me the ‘90s and formulated his own disinvestment in higher education about running.” theories about leadership, which has created larger class sizes and Snavely grew up in a small he now passes on to students in fewer resources for faculty. Howtown in central Illinois and stud- his class. One important lesson, ever, his passion for teaching ied at several universities across he said, is the difference between keeps him motivated and willing the Midwest before he took a management and leadership. Dur- to grow with his students.

“I like the vitality of my stuposition at Miami University. He ing his first term as mayor, Snavetaught in both the business and ly said he was only managing the dents and I like seeing the changes that happen with my students communication departments, affairs of the city, not leading. ending as the associate dean. Sna“We conducted meetings, I did from the beginning of a semester to the end,” Snavely said. “The vely is no stranger to hard work all the things I was supposed to students are awesome. I love stuand education, and his academic do, but at the end of that two-year dents and every year there’s anroute did not start out easily. period, I looked back and couldn’t other group, and I always expect “My freshman year I had four really tell you much of what we them to be fantastic. And typidifferent majors,” he said. “So I accomplished,” Snavely said. cally they live up to my expectawas still shopping around and …

The second time around, Sna- tions.”

Allie Bidwell

I didn’t do really well because I was having way too much fun. My parents helped me to come to the realization that if I’m doing that then I could put myself through school. So that was a hard lesson to learn.”

Snavely transferred from Drake University to Illinois State University and began working part time. Eventually, he made his way into communications. While attending a communications meeting with a friend, Snavely had a stroke of good luck and ended up with a full-ride scholarship. As a high school student, the university’s debate coach offered him a spot on the team, as well as a

4

SPORTS

Tuesday August 28, 2012 The Daily Aztec

Kicking it with soccer player Kelsey Booth

women’s soccer

in your spare time?

KB: Usually relax because I’m so tired from practice, but I love to scrapbook. I know it’s random, but I love scrapbooking. For Christmas, I always make my relatives a scrapbook. I also love to paint.

DA: Why did you decide to play soccer instead of another sport?

KB: When I was little, I was a gymnast. My parents put me into soccer and ever since I was little, I was good at it and I just loved it, so I gave up gymnastics to play it.

Sophomore forward Kelsey Booth has one goal and one assist in four games.

Ryan Schuler Sports Editor

The San Diego State women’s soccer team has begun its season with a perfect 4-0 record for the fiDAt time since 1996. Sports editor Ryan Schuler caught up with sophomore forward Kelsey Booth to discuss her fiDAt collegiate goal, what she likes to do in her spare time and her Player of the Week accolades.

Daily Aztec: How does it feel to be named Mountain West Player of the Week by CollegeSportsMadness.com?

Kelsey Booth: It definitely feels nice. It’s an accomplishment not only for me, but also for the team. It looks really good for me as a player, but also for (Rachel) Boaz (who was named the Mountain West Women’s Soccer Defensive Player of the Week), but it really is for the team as a whole.

DA: How did it feel to score your fiDAt collegiate goal against Arizona State UniveDAity?

KB: It felt really nice. I was really excited about that because I scored last season, but it was against an NAIA team, so that didn’t count. When I came off the field, I was like

peter kluch, assistant photo editor

“that was my fiDAt goal.”

DA: So how excited are you to play under the lights while they will actually work?

KB: (Laughing) When they finally work, it’s going to be a lot nicer than playing during the 5 o’ clock heat because it will be cooler and we will have more energy. It will pump us up more because it’s going to be the fiDAt game under the lights. It’s going to definitely change the game.

DA: What sport would you play if you didn’t play soccer?

KB: I’ve always wanted to play volleyball. I mean I know I’m short—I guess not that short— but I just love playing beach volleyball and messing around just hitting it. I was going to try out in high school, but never ended up doing it because of soccer.

DA: Why did you decide to attend and play for San Diego State?

KB: Ever since I came down here with my club team for Surf Cup, I’ve fallen in love with San Diego. So I knew since I was little, I wanted to go to a San Diego school. SDSU was interested in me, so I came for a visit and loved it.

DA: What do you enjoy doing

DA: What is your favorite band?

KB: I love country music. My favorite band for country music is—they are kind of old—but the Dixie Chicks. I’ve started to really like the Shins and Phantogram. Their new stuff I’ve just started to like.

DA: What is your major and why did you pick it?

KB: I’m undeclared. It’s been really hard deciding what I want to do. I was thinking the nutrition route or kinesiology. I was also thinking about maybe just health communications.

I’m just doing my GEs now then decide hopefully by the end of this year. Hopefully, some of my GEs will help me decide.

DA: What is one thing on your bucket list?

KB: Well, recently in Del Mar I saw the hot air balloons go by.

I really want to go in a hot air balloon sometime while I am down here. That’s definitely on my bucket list.

DA: What would your last meal on earth be?

KB: It would definitely be dessert. Honestly, I would be happy with cheesecake because I love cheesecake or a “Pizookie” or just a ton of ice cream. I have a sweet tooth.

from DUNK CONTEST page 1

-ers before calling up the first competitor.

The Dunk-a-Thon began slowly. Each entrant was allotted 30 seconds to successfully dunk the ball with as much flair as possible. There were between 10 and 15 competitors in the first round, with few successful in impressing the judges. A score higher than five was a rare occurrence.

Fast-forward two rounds.

Only four players were left in the competition. The fans were getting rowdy, although it might have just been their freshman giddiness from no longer having a bedtime.

As Snoop Dogg’s “Drop It Like It’s Hot” blared throughout the ARC, the competition’s shortest competitor, Dante Burnett, missed three times trying to throw down a behindthe-back alley-oop to himself, but still managed a decent score.

He removed his shirt shortly

One competitor leaps over an ARC employee during the slam dunk contest.

after.

“You’re beautiful, Dante!” yelled an excited young bystander through a plastic cone.

However, no matter how Burnett tried, he failed to overcome Campbell High School’s Tali Matemore.

Overbearingly tall, Matemore rarely missed a dunk and consistently scored seven or more, despite his self-proclaimed

paige nelson, photo editor

fear of heights.

In the end, Matemore won with a 360-spin dunk after bouncing the ball off the backboard, winning a threemonth membership to the ARC. Burnett came in second, winning two free months.

“They all balled out in their own special way,” McNutt said after the competition ended.

“Everyone’s a winner.”

6

entertainment

Tuesday August 28, 2012 The Daily Aztec

‘Inherit the Wind’ is an enlightening experience

all the world’s a stage

David Dixon Staff Writer

It’s been more than 50 years since “Inherit the Wind” has been produced on Broadway and nothing about it has aged. Loosely based on the Scopes Monkey Trial, which included modernists debating fundamentalists about religious versus scientific information. Because controversy between creationism and evolution is never-ending, it gives the subject matter a timely as well as timeless quality.

Taking place in the town of Hillsboro during an unspecified year, a likeable school teacher named Bertram Cates (Dan Amboyer) is arrested for teaching his students about evolution. He is put on trial and two equally powerful attorneys lead the attack on both sides. The prosecutor is Matthew Harrison Brady (Adrian Sparks), a socially liberal but religiously conservative man who has no interest in giving Charles Darwin’s “The Descent of Man” a read. The criminal defense lawyer is Henry Drummond (Robert Foxworth), a complicated man whose friendship with Matthew turned into a bitter rivalry.

The excellent quality of The Old Globe’s production is evident throughout “Inherit the Wind,” which is powerfully acted and intellectually stimulating. Unlike director Adrian Noble’s visually engaging take on “As You Like it,” the emphasis of “Inherit the Wind” is placed mostly on the actors and the text from Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee.

Robert Foxworth takes center stage as Henry Drummond in The Old Globe’s production of “Inherit the Wind.”The play tackles tough issues, such as the relationship between science and religion in public life.

Foxworth is pure dynamite in his performance as Henry. From the moment he makes his grand entrance, which rivals Jay Whittaker’s opening monologue in The Globe’s “Richard III,” the seasoned performer commands every scene he is in. Plenty of rat-a-tat dialogue for him to sink his teeth into and his ability to show the positive and arrogant sides of Henry make Whittaker’s performance a real pleasure to watch.

Just as memorable in his portrayal of Matthew is Sparks, who stars in some of the most intense scenes in the performance. His views regarding

religion are obviously close-minded, yet there are some key moments when he displays acts of kindness and poignant sensitivity.

Rousing plenty of dark, hilarious laughs is Joseph Marcell as the smartalecky reporter for the Baltimore Herald, E.K Hornbeck. He, at times, is unbelievably mean-spirited, but like Foxworth and Sparks, adds well earned humanity to his character.

One reason the play works so well is because the playwrights are not trying to change the audience’s views about science and religion. They instead propose intriguing existential

questions regarding the meaning of life, the Bible and evolution without getting preachy.

Aside from the main points of the trial, there are many other interesting themes going on. Even with an article in the program that gives away some of the plot, the resolution when Henry gets into an argument with E.K., for example, is a complete surprise. This is when Lawrence and Lee reveal that this is as much about morality as it is about the trial.

Noble has once again delivered another deeply satisfying accomplishment that is extremely

courtesy of henry dirocco

entertaining throughout. It would be wonderful if he comes back again next year to deliver some more unforgettable adventures.

Tickets and information about “Inherit the Wind” can be found at theoldglobe.org.

REVIEW play: Inherit the wind director: adrian noble runs: june 17 - sept. 25

JRPGs are a fitting send-off for the Wii Kevin Smead Entertainment Editor

In June of 2011, a group of dedicated role-playing game fans set out to do something relatively common in the media industry: demand more from content providers. In this case, the content provider was Nintendo and in question were three Japanese role-playing games for the Wii— “Xenoblade Chronicles,” “The Last Story” and “Pandora’s Tower.” The games were slated for European release in 2011, but Nintendo displayed no plans to ship the games stateside.

Enter “Operation Rainfall.”

What started as an Internet campaign evolved into a movement in which those involved lobbied Nintendo tirelessly, hoping for a chance to play these highly anticipated games. Last December, Nintendo announced “Xenoblade Chronicles” would be released in North America in 2012. In February, it was announced the XSEED release of “The Last Story” would be arriving stateside. The caveat was the versions released in the U.S. would be the European ones, with the cast of European voice actors and non-localized spelling (colour vs. color), not that it was an issue, though.

“Xenoblade Chronicles” came out in April, and “The Last Story” was released on Aug. 14. There has been no word yet on a release

for “Pandora’s Tower.”

While it’s great to see fans getting what they want, it’s easy to question what the release of two niche games for a dying console really means. The answer is actually more multi-faceted than one might expect.

First and foremost, there are the fans. Cult classics are classics for a reason, but they generally stay untouched for decades and only become popular after the fact.

For every “Chuck,” “Firefly” and “Arrested Development,” there are dozens of television shows and other media adored by some

Zael, the protaganist of “The Last Story,” faces off against an early boss. The battle system of “The Last Story” is fresh and innovative, providing a pleasant end to the Wii console.

... It’s easy to question what the release of two niche games for a dying console really means. The answer is actually more multifaceted than one might expect. who never see more than a single season or brief release. To some degree, fans were able to save the aforementioned shows, but the success stories are few and far between. Despite the infrequency of such shows, they do have a major impact. When fans show such strong support, companies pay attention, increasing the chances of fans getting what they want.

Also, there is the effect that

these releases have on the art of the JRPG. Both games, without question, are triumphs.

“Xenoblade Chronicles” is a modern classic and it breathes new life into the genre. The old conventions of sluggish in-game travel, save points and tedious character management are all gone, replaced with a modern, streamlined game design. The battle system combines all of the best innovations the genre has seen

this generation, while consistently introducing new mechanics to keep things fresh. Also, the story (arguably the most important part of the JRPG) is excellent, though its structure remains relatively traditional.

“The Last Story” is also fantastical, though it does fall prey to some old genre conventions, such as save points and occasionally one-dimensional character arcs.

However, the pedigree behind the game is no joke. “The Last Story” was developed by Mistwalker, which consists of Hironobu Sakaguchi, the original creator of the legendary “Final Fantasy” series, and world-famous composer Nobuo Uematsu, known for the same franchise. These are two titans who shaped the genre and their latest offering does not disappoint.

courtesy of xseed and mistwalker

Finally, these releases have a great importance for the Wii’s legacy. Known mostly for casual games and shovelware, the Wii’s waning days are now defined by two of the greatest games of this generation. While it can be argued these games leave some wanting for high-definition graphics and perfect frame rates, many see the Wii as a console for leaving that behind and focusing on what matters: gameplay. With the WiiU looming above the horizon, these releases are a perfect swan song for a console that has been intensely polarizing since its release.

Do yourself a favor and pick up “Xenoblade Chronicles” and “The Last Story” and celebrate the final days of the Wii. These are two tales you don’t want to miss.

Classifieds APTS 4 RENT

RENTALS

Studio, separate building, private, quiet, full kitchen & bath, off street parking. $700 + utilities. 619-461-0377. __________________________________

Cars for rent, $99/week, student special.

All maintenance is included 619-4772935. juan@economyautorentals.com __________________________________

Mission Valley office, Part-time-$10-12/hr +BONUSES. Great resume experience-include major. Call 619-822-2428 and/or email resume to justine@amgbanking.com

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

Apply to be a writer for The Daily Aztec! www.thedailyaztec.com/jobs

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

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!

8

Backpage

Tuesday August 28, 2012 The Daily Aztec

Oh, the places you’ll go

humor

HOROSCOPE

by Nancy Black, Tribune Media Services

Today’s Birthday (8/28/12) - What makes you happy? Add it to the plan. Two eclipses favor career this year, sparking overdue recognition. Education and creative expression grow in new directions. Social network communications expand it all.

Relationships hold the gold. Share the love.

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 6 Confer with allies for the next two days. Take your time, and step carefully around sharp or fragile objects. Your friends help surmount breakdowns.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 6 - You’re especially fair and balanced now. The impossible seems possible, particularly around your work. Difficulties ahead translate into a learning experience.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 5 - Conditions look good for romance, but don’t bend the rules. Plan a getaway to relax.

It could potentially be an expensive moment, so take care.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 6 - It’s easier to focus on the details. Today and tomorrow are good for financial planning.

Remember that the best things in life are still free. Irritation alert! Keep it soothing.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 5 Create romance, graciously. Start by listening for the gold. Remember the rules. Family matters vie with work for your attention.

Keep expenses low.

SDSU offers plenty of opportunities to capture moments that will last a lifetime. All students have to do is be open to these experiences and enjoy them when they arrive.

W

ell, freshmen, you’ve made it. You’re at San Diego State reading The Daily Aztec. Congrats.

I’ve been in your shoes, and I can tell you it’s very fun and interesting. I will, however, tell you something you should know. You should expect things here to get complicated. In all honesty, those complications are why you’re here. Complications build us into better people. This is your first lesson while here at SDSU, and you don’t need to pay me one bit of your tuition to learn it. In fact, to try to simplify the SDSU experience, I’ll describe it to you in the style of a San Diego literary legend: Dr. Seuss.

Oh, The Places You’ll Go … Here in San Diego (State) Congratulations!

Today is your day Here in San Diego, You’re well on your way!

With an iPhone in your hands And new Toms on your feet You can steer yourself ‘round To coffee shops all week.

You’re all on your own, To the dorms you will go With SDSU hoodies Worn by all who you know As you look up in class At the teachers who preach, You’ll find yourself thinking “What’s he trying to teach?”

Carlos Alaniz Staff Writer

With a head full of aches, And new Macbooks in cases You’ll be off in a daze Surrounded by fresh faces.

And you may even find Classes you do like Try not to get run over In that lane with the bikes.

Because, sometimes, you won’t.

I’m sorry to say so But, sadly, it’s true It’s true big hangovers Can happen to you.

You can get all passed out In a couch or a bed, And your gang will poke fun Drawing stuff on your head.

It’s open out here, In the wide open air…

Out here things can happen And frequently do To people as bright And as young as you.

When you’re in a slump You’re not in for much fun.

Un-slumping yourself Is not easily done.

And when finals start Don’t worry. Don’t stew.

Don’t complain to upperclassmen Because we’ve been there, too.

But will you succeed?

Yes you will, indeed!

(Probably. We make no promises. – Ed.)

You’ll be on your way to Viejas Arena To witness great sights!

As The Show and Jamaal Franklin Will soar to high heights.

You may go Greek And you’ll make new friends, Wearing matching shirts As you party with them.

Except when you don’t,

KID, YOU’LL MOVE MOUNTAINS! So… Be your name Betty or Brock, Or Carlos Alberto Alaniz, You’re off to great places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting, So get on your way!

So, that, kids, is almost SDSU in a nutshell. It might not be the same experience for everyone, but I’ve enjoyed it so far, and you can do so as well.

So, once more, on behalf of all upperclassmen, welcome to SDSU.

The Daily Aztec is looking for photographers!

All of those interested email photo@thedailyaztec.com.

GENERAL INFORMATION

:

619.594.4199

PLEASE NOTE :

©2012, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

file photo

You’ll eat Panda Express Or Trujillo’s again, And it may take some time, But you’ll grow tired of them.

OH! THE PLACES YOU’LL GO!

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 7 Entering a two-day busy work phase. Choose materials carefully. Avoid distractions and arguments, even if you have to admit you’re wrong. Keep a secret.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 7 - You’re especially creative, and luckier, until tomorrow. The challenge will be to balance work with play. Hold on to what you have.

Reassess priorities.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 6 - Stay put. Make household decisions the next few days. Definitely choose love over money. Postpone travel. Continue to show extraordinary patience.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 5 - No trying new tricks now, and don’t throw your money around. Share feelings for a little while. Communicate with lost friends.

You’re very popular now.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 7 - Work may be challenging, but it’s much more rewarding than usual. Keep costs down while increasing income. Postpone play until later. Get practical.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 7 - You’re in the lead, but don’t fall asleep at the wheel. Be your own biggest critic, but keep it constructive. You can accomplish a lot now.

Dig deeper.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 6 - Find the light within rather than looking for it at the end of the tunnel. Follow through on what you’ve promised, doing the practical things first. Use your sensitivity.

FOR ALL OTHER CONTACTS

thedailyaztec.com

,

PLEASE VISIT

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

SUDOKU

by The Mepham Group, Tribune Media Services

Difficulty Level: 2 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 ©2012, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

WWW.THEDAILYAZTEC.COM CROSSWORD Across 1 6-Across, for one 6 Friday portrayer 10 Flag down __ 14 Totally lose it 15 Modest reply to a compliment 16 Sported 17 Zimbalist Jr. of “77 Sunset Strip” 18 Playwright Akins and Tony winner Caldwell 19 Et __: and others 20 Repeatedly, in poems 21 The first Mrs. Trump 23 Reaction to a pun, perhaps 24 Driver with a permit 26 *Monopoly cards 28 Snickered at 29 Start of a confession to a priest 32 Ed.’s workload 33 *Warty leaper 34 “You’ve got mail” Internet giant 35 Recedes to the sea 38 “Oedipus __” 39 Beggar’s request 40 Spanish aunt 41 *Robin’s egg color 43 Cookie container 45 Concur about 47 Mary’s little follower 51 *Scrub 52 Latvia neighbor 53 Sonic bursts 55 Make joyful 57 Cold War initials 58 Prefix with Chinese 59 Silly smile, maybe 60 Inline roller 62 Sly glance 63 __ platter: Chinese menu choice 64 Tuckers (out) 65 Use intense light on 66 Laundry challenge 67 Begin Down 1 From long ago 2 *With 13-Down, roasted aromatic seed 3 Fish-and-chips sauce

by Rich Norris & Joyce Lewis, Tribune Media Services

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 4 Reveal, in verse 5 Helps remember 6 *Oz ruler 7 School for English princes 8 Place for pumpernickel 9 Fly-__: air passes 10 Military medals, e.g.

11 Really huge 12 “Carmen” highlight 13 *See 2-Down 22 Victory signs 23 Turned right 25 Canyon perimeters 27 Portuguese “she” 30 *Pop’s partner 31 2012 British Open winner Ernie 33 Peg on the links 35 Terminal expectation: Abbr.

36 *Tom Hanks film

37 Lines on labels 38 Second-place finisher 39 Folk singer Guthrie 41 Swarming stingers 42 Mauna __ 43 Kid around 44 Swears to 46 “Get Shorty” author Leonard 47 *Piece of packing material 48 Michael who played Cochise 49 Title associated with the 11 starred answers 50 Most meager 53 *Bird’s beak 54 Fit for military duty 56 Fat removal, briefly 59 Navig. aid 61 Christopher Carson, famously