SDSU is on cutting edge of tech
WEDNESDAY September 21, 2011 Volume 97, Issue 15 W W W.T H E D A I LYA Z T E C . C O M
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Kevin Smead contributor With medical technology advancing so rapidly, it is easy to get caught up in the fantastical ideas of innovations such as the integration of machine with man. When looking at this through the lens of popular culture, images of the “Six Million Dollar Man” and “The Matrix” come to mind. And while these things are less implausible than they were 10 years ago, the current work of San Diego State mechanical engineering professor and 2011 Faculty Monty award recipient Dr. Kee Moon has the potential to revolutionize the scientific and medical communities, bringing these closer to seemingly distant futures. In July, the National Science
Foundation announced an $18.5 million grant, establishing an Engineering Research Center for Sensorimotor Neural Engineering at the University of Washington. Also included in this grant are two universities acting as research partners: the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and through the efforts of Moon here at SDSU. The research conducted at SDSU as well as UW and MIT will be used to develop sensorimotors that are integrated into the human neural system for various medical purposes, such as advanced control for prosthetic limbs and a home-based system for aiding in serious injury rehabilitation. The ultimate goal for this project is to create a human brain and motion device interface in order to achieve a high level of control for those in need.
“This will help amputees not only walk, but run or even dance,” Moon said. Moon is also a full-time professor in the College of Engineering and incorporates a unique blend of both theory and practice in his teaching. Recently, Moon developed a course structured as an engineering design competition that works in conjunction with local businesses to promote innovation both on campus and within San Diego industry as a whole. In addition to this, Moon and his research team worked as an integral part in both creating inventions and obtaining patents in the field of organic light-emitting diode technology. “This is essentially the world’s first true 3-D technology,” Moon said. “This technology is not only cheaper, but really flexible, which opens up a lot of new potential for its application.”
Also noteworthy is Moon’s coordination with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Kyung Hee University in South Korea. Students from the university come to SDSU for an intensive four-week program that not only encompasses experiencing SDSU, but experiencing the San Diego area and its local industries as well. When asked about being honored with one of this year’s Monty Awards, Moon expressed his gratitude, and specifically cited his honoring being because of his colleagues, Dr. Samuel Kassegne and Dr. Khaled Morsi, as well as his team of researchers. In the future, Moon plans to continue his work with the Engineering Research Center as well as focus on teaching in the College of Engineering.
Pet Tracker sniffs out precious pets before they stray too far.
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OPINION Leonardo Castaneda tackles Chargers stadium conflict with new ideas.
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Professor awarded Monty Hutton Marshall senior staff writer
C R I M E B E AT Possible noise violation reports Several disturbing the peace calls were made to the San Diego State Police Department last Friday, two of which were referencing Albert’s College Apartments on 55th Street. One was a possible domestic dispute that occurred there between a male and female. The male was last seen leaving the premises. The other call involved a report of loud music from an upstairs apartment. Also, with Fall Rush in full swing, the authorities were called out several times to the Sigma Chi fraternity house on College Avenue with a report of a loud party in progress. In addition to these incidents, multiple loud parties were reported in the vicinity of Montezuma Road. - Compiled by Kevin Smead, contributor.
Associate Dean for the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts Dr. Kathy LaMaster has a diverse list of accomplishments compared to most educators. One of this year’s Faculty Monty winners has not only proven herself in the classroom and as an administrator, but in several other career ventures and San Diego State organizations. LaMaster began her involvement with higher education at Texas Christian University. However, her goal at the time wasn’t to become an educator. She received her master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in medical technology and began working in a hospital running lab tests. After admitting the work “wasn’t as exciting as (she) thought it would be,” she left to become a coach and teacher in Fort Worth, Texas. It was there she realized what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. She decided to return to school for her doctorate in physical education from Ohio State University. She found her way to SDSU, beginning as an assistant professor teaching physical education and exercise.
LaMaster was then promoted to interim director of SDSU’s School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, before reaching her current position as associate dean. Despite her administrative position, LaMaster has remained very involved in every level of SDSU’s educational infrastructure. She is actively involved
LaMaster has been with SDSU since 1996. After 15 years of teaching, she hasn’t lost any of her enthusiasm ... with students and faculty, even teaching classes when it fits her schedule, but she said she prefers the “broader view of campus,” which is what her administrative position offers her. As chair for the University Academic
and Resource Planning Committee in the University Senate, LaMaster has a significant voice as a voting member because she determines how money is spent in SDSU’s budget. For her it is a way to protect the interests of the students within her college. Aside from overseeing the larger aspects of campus life, LaMaster still makes an effort to remain active in the classroom. Last school year, she taught PSFA 550, which is the final class students are required to take to receive a study abroad minor. The objective of the class is to construct a 50-page paper researched abroad. While a large portion of her responsibilities with the class is simply monitoring student progress, LaMaster enjoys the chance to work closely with students. “I love hearing about the experiences of the students, and the challenges and obstacles they overcame abroad,” LaMaster said. LaMaster has been with SDSU since 1996. After 15 years of teaching, she hasn’t lost any of her enthusiasm for being a part of the university’s mission. “The diversity of students and shared governance model is something I respect a lot about SDSU… I can’t think of anywhere else I’d rather be,” LaMaster said.
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
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We looked up at the large, electronic blackboard that welcomed us with bright ... letters: “No Sk8brds” ... “No Studnt Prking.” B A C K PA G E
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W E AT H E R : PARTLY CLOUDY HIGH: 77 LOW: 62 SUNSET: 6:46PM
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D A I LY
AZTEC Wednesday, September 21, 2011
OPINION
Include secularism in religious classes
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espite having the third most followers in the world, atheism and nonreligious beliefs have been getting the short end of the stick for many years. Secularist and atheist teachings have been outlawed, hated and mocked by virtually all other major religions. And for most of America’s history, those groups have been ignored at all levels of learning. This unfair neglect is slowly coming to an end, thanks in no small part to classes such as Religious Studies 380: Atheism, Humanism and Secularism, being offered for the first time this fall at San Diego State. It’s hard to understate the importance of such a comprehensive class on nonbelief. If you’re anything like me and find yourself confused as to what humanism even means, and whether atheism and agnosticism mean the same thing, you’re a living testament for how overdue this class is. But this new course serves an important purpose beyond helping students analyze alternative views on religion. It also grants the study of nonbelief much-needed academic recognition. This recognition is a long time coming for a religious ideology first proposed by the ancient Greeks — you know, the guys who invented democracy and algebra — hundreds of years before Jesus was born. Since then, nonbelievers have reached 1.1 billion people strong, including 15 percent of Americans. Yet in America, atheism has failed to receive the kind of widespread acknowledgment given to smaller and newer religious beliefs. The course, taught by professor Roy Whitaker, is an important first step, but it’s far from an isolated one. Pitzer College, thanks to the efforts of professor Phil Zuckerman, is now offering a degree in secular studies. But this is hardly enough. Atheism and secularism should receive equal standing among other religions throughout the academic spectrum. World religion classes, which many students are required to take for a variety of majors, should give equal time to the study of atheism and secularism just like any other religion. SDSU and Pitzer College are pioneers in a field ripe for the kind of critical thinking and innovative study the best universities in the world are known for. They must continue to push forward, expanding the study of irreligion and nonbelief as they become global leaders in this often neglected ideology. They are an example the rest of the Cal State Universities and University of California schools must follow if they wish to be considered fair and impartial toward religion. But why start with college? After all, most students get their first taste of world religions in high school social science classes. These classes often discuss everything from Christianity to Zoroastrianism, but conveniently ignore atheism. It’s time public schools demonstrate the impartiality toward religions required by the Constitution and give atheism its due attention. This may seem like a novel and even controversial proposition, but it is far from
1.2% OTHER FAITHS 0.8% DON’T KNOW / REFUSED <0.3% OTHER WORLD RELIGIONS 0.4% HINDU 0.7% BUDDHIST 0.6% MUSLIM 1.7% JEWISH 0.3% OTHER CHRISTIAN 0.6% ORTHODOX 0.7% JEHOVAH’S WITNESS 1.7% MORMON
EVANGELICAL PROTESTANT
6.9%
HISTORICALLY BLACK
16.1%
UNAFFILIATED
U.S. RELIGIOUS LANDSCAPE
18.1%
MAINLINE PROTESTANT
23.9%
CATHOLIC DATA COMPILED BY THE PEW FORUM
Leonardo Castaneda staff columnist education classes. To some, the very idea of atheism being taught in public schools and universities feels like an assault on traditional religions. After all, hatred of atheists has often been the only point of agreement between bitterly divided religious sects. Trying to uphold atheistic ideas as equal to conventional religious ones is bound to be met with some outrage. Thankfully, this kind of exclusionary mentality has not found a home within the College of Arts and Letters, which has twice increased the enrollment cap for the Atheism, Humanism and Secularism course to accommodate eager students. That mentality too must not find a home within society at large. After all, Christianity has been taught for decades alongside Judaism at all levels of public education, though no person claims one is a repudiation of the other. Countless different religious beliefs have been able to
Atheism and secularism should receive equal standing among other religions throughout the academic spectrum ... It’s time public schools demonstrate ... impartiality toward religions. unprecedented. England, a fellow western nation founded in similar Judeo-Christian traditions, has experienced a resounding boom in atheism. So much so that a recent poll found two-thirds -of British teens between the ages of 13 and 18 don’t believe in God. Six out of 10 even go so far as to say religion has a negative impact on the world. Faced with this shifting demographic, the British Qualifications and Curriculum Authority — think Department of Education, but with a fancier name — changed the school standards to give atheism the same amount of time and attention religions such as Christianity and Islam receive in religious
26.3%
coexist in harmony in the impartial halls of public education. There should be no problem adding one more, no matter how unconventional it may seem. For centuries, atheists have been a silent minority in America’s ongoing dialogue on religion, belief and its place in our society. But the number of nonbelievers is growing and they are demanding to be heard. Those willing to listen the way SDSU did will be in the forefront of the new age in American religious life.
— Leonardo Castaneda is an economics and journalism sophomore.
D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, September 21, 2011
OPINION
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Prevent Chargers relocation with innovation
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rguing in favor of a new Chargers stadium is never easy, but it can feel like outright mockery in the wake of a painful defeat at the hands of the New England Patriots. However, the Chargers’ demands for a new stadium are hardly new. After a decade of indecision, the time has come for the city to make a choice: Is it time for a Hail Mary pass or a throwaway? As things stand today, the Chargers have a one-year lease in San Diego, and they have from February to May to either renew it or find a new home. Before that time next year, the city has two options: Do nothing and risk losing the Chargers to Los Angeles, or find some way to build a new stadium here. Of course, even without a new stadium there’s no guarantee the Chargers will leave. However, event promoter AEG is making strong headway toward a new, privately funded stadium in LA. Without prospects of a new stadium in San Diego, it’s not hard to imagine the Chargers reaching a deal with AEG to move to a brand new home around a hundred miles north.
Leonardo Castaneda staff columnist Option two is to replace the 44-year-old Qualcomm Stadium with a new venue. While there is strong support to keep the Chargers in San Diego, it is far from unanimous. Many doubt the economic benefits of an NFL franchise and see the whole thing as a con to line the pockets of the Chargers’ owners. Supporters in turn point to the many benefits of keeping the Chargers in the city. Aside from the prestige a major sports team bestows on its hometown, it can also mean millions for the city in increased tourism, especially with big-ticket events such as the Super Bowl. In the short term, the jobs created by such a massive project would give San Diego’s battered construction sector a muchneeded boost. At some point, the following question arises: How does one pay for a new stadium expected to cost $800 million in the midst of a recession? To figure that out, let’s start with what we have. The Chargers and NFL are
willing to pay for 35 percent of the construction costs for a new venue. That comes out to $300 million. When the Giants and Jets built their joint $1.6 billion mammoth stadium, the NFL contributed $150 million per team. Proportionally, the Chargers’ plans are similar, $800 million per team. Admittedly, New York is a much bigger market, but a contribution from the NFL of $125 to $150 million would be a reasonable demand.
That leaves a $350 to $375 million gap — just less than half of the total. Here is where things get tricky. Other cities such as Indianapolis and Denver that have built similar stadiums have relied on additional sales taxes. A small tax hike on hotels and car rentals, services often used during the football season, would be one way to finance the stadium. However, San Diego requires a twothirdss majority vote for any new taxes, making that a politically unattainable option.
(The) city has two options: Do nothing and risk losing the Chargers to Los Angeles, or find some way to build a new stadium here. Of course, even with a new stadium there’s no guarantee the Chargers ... leave. So, how do you finance a stadium without new taxes? Here is one way. First, build the stadium away from the convention center. Instead of building it in the heart of downtown, build it farther south where the land will be cheaper. Second, finance the construction of the stadium with new municipal bonds. Right now, the yield on municipal bonds is at historic lows. That means now is the cheapest time in recent memory for cities to raise money through bonds. Issue a total of $400 million in municipal bonds during the next six years — the expected building time of a new stadium — to subsidize its construction. Reduce the Chargers’ total expected contribution to $325 or $300 million, but have them pay for the interest on the bonds with the revenue from parking, food and tickets at Qualcomm. Once the stadium is built, the city and the team share revenue on parking, food and tickets until the municipal bonds are completely paid off. At that point the stadium will be built without cost to the city, and the city’s share can be sold to private investors for a profit. Additionally, by offering tax cuts and incentives for hotels and restaurants around the new stadium the city can revitalize an older community with a second downtown. As the area grows around this new hub, property values will increase and bring in additional tax revenue to the city. This plan is far from revolutionary or perfect. But it shows that through some creative planning and willingness to compromise, an agreement can be reached to keep the Chargers in San Diego at no real cost to the city.
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Goals scored against Houston Baptist on Sunday.
2
Goals made by senior defender Daniel Steres.
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Wins for SDSU this season.
1
Loss for the Aztecs.
19
Assists for SDSU this season.
19.7
Average shots per game for the Aztecs.
17
Saves made by goalkeeper Blake Hylen.
1,315 Total home field attendance this season.
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— Leonardo Castaneda is an economics and journalism sophomore.
D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, September 21, 2011
E N T E R TA I N M E N T L I V E A N D DA N G E R O U S
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L I V E A N D DA N G E R O U S
Artists battle for Bon Iver stuns Spreckels pro studio time Winners: First Place – DJ Love Second Place – Keevo Third Place – Straight Trippin
COURTESY OF D.L. ANDERSON
Courtney Rogin staff writer
BROOKE VALLS, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Andrew Younger senior staff writer Announced at 1:45 a.m. to an audience that, by that time, consisted of little more than band members and their immediate families, San Diego State student DJ Love took first place at Aztec Nights’ Battle of the Bands last Friday. Through the use of a text message voting system, DJ Love and his live drummer bested eight other acts with a Girl Talk-inspired mashup set that easily received the best crowd reaction of the night by combining everything from Guns N’ Roses to David Guetta. Opening act Keevo took second place with a Skrillex-heavy DJ set that caused members of the audience to spontaneously Hula-Hoop and spin poi with glow strings. The last electronic performer of the night, mix artist DJ Holiday Home, was plagued by technical issues and a waning crowd as he struggled through his set before eventually closing out with Jimi Hendrix’s version of “All Along the Watchtower.” Solo performer Michael Shenk pulled up a stool and played both blues and acoustic songs in his original set,
adding a coffeehouse feel the event was sorely lacking. Pop-punk was thoroughly represented at the show, thanks to the efforts of Small City Calling and Keep the Change. Despite a broken string and no apparent backup guitar available, Keep the Change still managed to keep the crowd pogoing through its 15-minute set. Small City Calling, whose singer announced “This is the largest stage we’ve ever played on,” upped the ante for its set by tossing out T-shirts into the crowd while smashing into each other during a cover of Lit’s “My Own Worst Enemy.” If the Lit cover wasn’t enough late ‘90s nostalgia, the two ska bands Neveready and The Left Coasters recall the heyday of Reel Big Fish and BuckO-Nine, complete with onstage skanking and synchronized horn sections. The ‘90s influence throughout the competition reached its apex with third-place finalist Straight Trippin. Straight Trippin’s set borrowed the Sublime combination of punk, ska and reggae, down to the affected Bradley Nowell-styled vocals. Each of the finalists won studio time to produce a professionally mastered demo courtesy of Delirious Records.
Spreckels Theatre, one of the oldest and most beautiful venues in San Diego, hosted a lovely show on both Friday and Saturday nights this past weekend. Just shy of its centennial, Spreckels is a show in itself. From its storied past to its ornate and decorated walls the venue demands as much attention as the acts it hosts. Inside the theater, concerts become brilliant displays of musical achievement, thanks to incredible ambience and acoustics. So when Bon Iver visits San Diego, there really is no more of a perfect place for its precious, intense and radiant music. With some last minute tickets released, the sold out crowd was ready to be immersed by glorious acoustic wonder. The audience members’ expectations were eternally fulfilled. Support for the night was newcomer Other Lives, which complemented the indie-folk genre theme well. Its melodies were reminiscent of a Romanticism-era tragedy, caused by the subconscious sense of urgency to the group’s tempo and drums. The timeless modern romantic feel is sure to take Other Lives’ rolling thunder-inspired songs into many more albums. After an unpleasantly crowded intermission in the lobby, Bon Iver
front man Justin Vernon appeared on stage alongside an eight-piece accompaniment, rather symphony, and the song “Perth” began. The stage was intimate yet complex, an arrangement ranging from instruments as small as a bicycle bell to a large baritone saxophone. “Perth” started calm and vibrant, and then the distinctive alto voice of Vernon emerged from center stage, resonating throughout every seat in the house. The opening song, which is also the opening track on Bon Iver’s most recent album, transformed seamlessly into the adjoining track, “Minnesota, WI,” showcasing the poignant intensity that breathes from each song. This intensity is a moving feeling of unrequited heartbreak that Bon Iver has an enchanting ability to weave through its melodies. As the music was played, time became irrelevant and hard to define while the audience tried to experience every sound performed. With a live band, it is a rare and intriguing accomplishment to blend certain sounds with each other, making them seem simultaneously familiar and foreign. It’s not simply just a guitar or a voice. Everything has a sense of powerful energy and every instrument, down to the wind chime, plays an integral part on stage. It is the resulting air of mystery that goes beyond typical rock bands and allows for the imagination to wander into a song and lose itself for the rest of the show.
The highlight of the night was the surprisingly energetic and loud rendition of “Creature Fear.” The rolling band included a talented trombone solo and continued the ever-present harmonizing collection of vocals and interlaced instruments. Take note brass instrument players, there are plenty of opportunities to become a rock star. The band featured trumpets, saxophones, trombones and a French horn, which is always refreshing to see on stage alongside the common guitar and drums. Closing out the night the band featured the songs, “The Wolves (Act I and II)” and “Skinny Love.” “Wolves” captured desires deep inside every person and turned them into a fragile lullaby and an eternal reminder. The song seemed to build power inside of itself as the lyrics continued on, leaving the echoes to chase each other around the ornate theater walls. Crowd-favorite and widely popular song, “Skinny Love” ended the stunning night. Vernon kept fairly quiet throughout the night when it came to stage chatter with the crowd. There were more than a few audience catcalls for marriage and love directed his way, though he managed to brush past them. There are not many shows that are better enjoyed quietly seated, this is a well-welcomed exception however. This night at Spreckels will become a cherished memory for both fans of Bon Iver and music fans in general.
SNEAK PEEK
TURN IT UP
Wilco never disappoints Systems Officer to rock Casbah Connor Cox
staff writer
Some critics have called Wilco the “American Radiohead,” not because of any musical similarities, but because both bands have a constantly evolving sound. Having transformed from its mid-’90s alternative country sound to jazz-inspired folk, Wilco has proven to be one of the most interesting bands around. Similar to Radiohead, Wilco’s debut work was rather misleading compared to the band’s discography as a whole, which is partially because of the frequent turnover of band members. Since the beginning of its career, Wilco has experienced five major changes in the member lineup. “Summerteeth” is “The Bends” of Wilco’s discography while “Yankee Hotel Foxtrot” parallels Radiohead’s “OK Computer.” Both the latter albums stand among the greatest of the last 15 years. However, the current lineup is the longest lasting outfit so far, which explains the similarities in “The Whole Love” to the last two records. The Radiohead comparisons are nearly justified with the opener “Art of Almost.” The seven-minute track
starts off sounding like a windstorm blowing into the microphone. Nels Cline’s experimental guitar riffs and Mikael Jorgensen’s keyboards fade in to orchestrate the structure of the song, supported by one of John Stirratt’s rare bass leads. “Art of Almost” is a song every band wishes it could write. Unfortunately, the rest of the album sounds nothing like “Art of Almost.” In fact, the second song, “I Might” is vastly different. It has a cheerful, walk-in-the-park vibe with a choppy beat and catchy tune. The theme continues into other tracks “Born Alone” and “Dawned on Me,” but these three songs don’t define the album. The other songs are fairly darker and more low-key. Like most Wilco records, “The Whole Love” requires more than one listen to experience full enjoyment of the album. “Black Moon” is a shy and somber song that could easily be missed, even though it’s one of the best tracks on the record. Finishing the album is “One Sunday Morning,” which is the most beautiful and intricate track on the entire album, leaving fans with 12 minutes of satisfaction. Band leader Jeff Tweedy takes a Bob Dylan approach to writing the lyrics, focusing on storytelling rather than fitting
each word into a rhyming scheme. Having a shorter version of the song would not sustain the finesse and intimacy the album needs. From start to finish, “The Whole Love” is a beautiful, fun and innovative record that will secure a distinctive place in Wilco’s diverse discography. Listeners will be eager to press rewind to study each song and ensure that no sound or instrument goes unnoticed. Perhaps someday Radiohead can be called “England’s Wilco.” “The Whole Love” is available on CD, vinyl and digital download next Tuesday.
Wilco The Whole Love
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John Anderson entertainment editor Local San Diego band Pinback has enjoyed modest national success with its quirky and undeniably catchy tunes. Founding member and genius behind the band’s distinctive bass lines, Armistead Burwell Smith IV (aka Zach Smith), is currently touring as his solo side project, Systems Officer, and will playing a show tonight at The Casbah. Fans of Pinback and Smith’s other project, Three Mile Pilot, need not listen long to spot the similarities between the three acts. The distinctive flair Smith brings to the table with his bass, keyboard and vocal work are on full display in Systems Officer. Though it bears heavy similarity to Pinback, the solo project allows Smith to indulge his lyrical side with abandon while maintaining some of the identity he has established in his other projects. Smith has enlisted Pinback drummer Chris Prescott, along with
Kenseth Thibideau, to flesh out Systems Officer both on the tour and on a more permanent basis. According to Smith’s recent post on the band’s website, he is now able to invest more attention in “molding Systems Officer into something really special.”
The distinctive flair Smith brings to the table with his bass, keyboard and vocal work are on full display in Systems Officer. Systems Officer will play to those who are 21 and older with Phantom Works and The Color of Glass at 8:30 p.m. tonight at The Casbah. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at casbahmusic.com.
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AZTEC Wednesday, September 21, 2011
F E AT U R E S
Device finds furry family friends with greater ease Amy DeVito staff writer
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$48 million on pets
F OU
2% of cats
are found
ND
In the conventional American household, a family typically consists of a mother, a father, a brother, a sister and a valued pet. Many pet owners are guilty of pampering their pooches and feline friends with gourmet food, plush toys and, of course, limitless love and affection. When a beloved companion decides to follow its instincts out the door and onto the street, owners often find themselves at a point of desperation. Now Qualcomm has released Tagg-Pet Tracker, ensuring an efficient way for GPS tracking to locate runaway pets, which enables owners to find their exact coordinates.
The tracker latches onto the collar and can be set to specific, desirable settings, such as creating an alert system to notify the owner if the pet has wandered off from a designated area. The pet tracker is unique because, like a trackable mobile device, it includes a service provided by Verizon Wireless, enabling access to vast coverage and a reliable network. The Tagg Master Kit comes equipped with one year of service for $199.99 and can be expected to be shipped within the month. “Hundreds of thousands of pets go missing every year and, according to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, only 15 to 20 percent of lost dogs and only 2 percent of lost cats are ever returned to their owners,” a press release on Qualcomm.com said. “Tagg — The Pet Tracker is a purpose-built solution that uses a sophisticated combination of GPS and wireless technology to monitor a pet’s location and quickly notify the owner via email and / or text if the pet leaves its Tagg
LOS
Qualcomm upgrades pet tracking tech
20% of dogs are found
75 million dog owners
zone, the area where it spends most of its time — typically the home, yard and adjacent areas.” Qualcomm Incorporated designed this convenient innovation primarily to provide pet lovers with more comfort. This only further establishes the company’s status as a self-coined “world leader in mobile technologies.” Other companies such as Garmin and SpotLight have launched pet tracking devices as well. However, Qualcomm aspires to market its product on a larger scale. From a business perspective, the company clearly strategized and had a well-
consumers spent $48 billion on their pets last year.” By targeting the nation’s soft spot, Qualcomm may have struck gold with the tag. “We created Tagg because we understand that pets are an important part of today’s family,” Snaptracs President Dave Vigil said. “As pet owners ourselves, we were inspired to design a purpose-built solution that provides owners the peace of mind that their pet is where it is supposed to be. A lost pet is something no owner wants to experience, and we are proud to have developed a sim-
“... we are proud to have developed a simple-to-use and affordable tracking system that will help reunite pet and owner quickly if the pet wanders off.” Dave Vigil, President of Snaptracs developed idea by calculating the millions of homes that include pets. “It’s certainly a big market,” The San Diego Union Tribune reporter Mike Freeman said. “There are more than 75 million dogs owned in the U.S., according to a Humane Society survey completed last year. More than 10 million pets are lost each year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. And The American Pet Products Association estimates that Makeshift signs are no longer needed. Tagg-Pet Tracker now instantly alerts owners with beloved pets that have gone astray.
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ple-to-use and affordable tracking system that will help reunite pet and owner quickly if the pet wanders off.” This new tracking device is sure to launch Qualcomm ahead in the mobile world yet again by strategically tapping in to a very important part of the typical American home. The cost may be expensive but the next time a beloved pet slips out the back door, its electronic track will be hard to miss.
D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, September 21, 2011
CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED The Boys and Girls Clubs of East County is currently hiring recreational aids working directly with youth in our community. For more information visit us at www.bgcec.org or e-mail your resume to sal@bgcec.org
Tutors wanted for algebra, geometry, calculus, chemistry, physics, biology, English, and Spanish. Scripps Ranch area. 2:30-8:30pm, flexible hours, $40/3 hours. (858) 705-3342.
INTERNSHIPS Xponential Growth Solutions: Marketing / Financial Services Company. Come visit us at the September 22nd Internship Fair. For early consideration please send resume and cover letter to bwilley@xgrowthsolutions.com
on
APARTMENTS FOR RENT $850 mo. 600 sq. ft. unfurnished studio with fireplace and large yard. Three blocks from downtown La Mesa. Utilities and cable free. No pets. (619) 988-0775.
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AZTEC Wednesday, September 21, 2011
B AC K PAG E
So long State skateboards guess it all started when they took away our skateboards. At first, we all thought it was a joke. This is San Diego, land of the sun and fun wheels. Skate parks litter our neighborhoods like sand traps on a golf course. Tony Hawk, legend of the decks, lives right up the street in Carlsbad. My 80-year-old neighbor can pull an ollie with a 360 degree spin. Blindfolded. They couldn’t take skateboarding away from us. No way. But there were signs as soon as we arrived on campus. We looked up at the large, electronic blackboard that welcomed us with bright orange letters: “No Sk8brds” (flash) “No Studnt Prking.” Well, that’s stupid, we thought. If there’s no parking, why would they ban economical transit on campus that could alleviate some of the parking gridlock? And why is that sign so big? How much does that cost to run a day? We could practically see it from Interstate 8. Still, very funny, we thought. No way they will enforce the ban. It just wouldn’t make sense. See, last year the campus initiated a bike and skate lane. We were finally moving to a greener future. Students could skateboard on campus in a more controlled envi-
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Ty Thompson staff columnist ronment. One where green tape lined the pathways. And even if that tape was cheap. And even if that cheap tape barely stayed attached in many places. It still promised a future of hope. Then, out of nowhere, when we were permanently stripped of that green tape and the red cement on campus became a permanent part of our lives, the word “skate” mysteriously dropped out of the transit lane equation. According to current university policies, section 16 of the Regulations for Use of San Diego State University Buildings and Grounds, article 16.2 states: “Riding skateboards, coasters, roller skates, toy vehicles and other devices of a similar nature is prohibited on all University property at all times.” What? We screamed when we read the new rule. Skateboarders, Razor scooter-riders, Big Wheels enthusiasts and roller derby girls all knocked out in a single sentence. What a blow. And here I had been imagining the day when a Sonic restaurant would open a location on campus so I could have a roller girl bring me my burger and an Ocean Water. Maybe some tater tots, too.
And a sundae. But no more. Hopes and dreams have crashed. Our wheels have been pulled from beneath our feet. To make it worse, police invaded campus to cite illicit skateboarders. Last Thursday, they brought the pain. An estimated 40 to 80 police officers were on campus, according to a NBC San Diego news report. They even named the day like a holiday: “Cite Day,” the police chanted in the streets, dancing in their polished black shoes. There was at least one officer from every jurisdiction in the county on campus, the same report claimed. As if our books weren’t expensive enough. As if you don’t give us enough ridiculous parking tickets already. Come on, parking is terrible here. Don’t make us pay for riding our skateboards. What will you take away next? Will it be the bikes? Will we have to walk in single-file lines? Will we have to pay a fine if we walk on the grass? Our skateboards seem gone forever. I thought we paid enough already. Guess not.
HOROSCOPE TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (9/21/11) You've got everything you need. Encourage creativity in others, and yours grows proportionally. Stick to a winning formula, and prosperity increases this year. Your savings grows, bit by bit. Presumptions get challenged, so loosen your grip. Share your 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 7 Slow and steady does it. No need for hurry. Go over your lists again and postpone travel. Do simple work, and keep your money in your pocket. Read a good book. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 7 Sometimes saying "no" is an act of courage. Do so lovingly, when appropriate. Frugality is a virtue ... share money-saving tricks with a friend. A new opportunity develops. GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is an 8 Stick to the plan this morning. No need to finance the whims of another. Hear their rationale, and advise patient action. Save spending for home and career basics. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is an 8 - Hold off on expensive dates. Arguments about money dampen romance like a wet towel. Use new skills and optimism to solve a problem. Expand your options by learning. LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 5 Spend a bit extra for quality that lasts longer. Communicate over a long distance. A female brings great news. Express your gratitude. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 6 - A
BY NANCY BLACK, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES coming change is for the better. Advise an anxious person to relax. It may take more than one try to get through. Don't worry about money or romance now ... just act. LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 6 There's so much to learn today, in all areas. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, even as you take care (especially with equipment). Keep to your highest standards. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 6 Stay close to home and finish something that's due. It may seem like you're moving slowly; use that slow motion in contemplation. It will be useful later. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 5 - A mess could arise. Accept constructive criticism that reveals the barrier, and clean it up. Ignore your inner critic. Get a mentor, and choose leadership. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 7 - As the leaves turn a passionate red, let romance rustle through your hair. Your relationships feed you like the rain. A partner helps you to the next level. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - No time for procrastination or upsets now. Batten down the hatches, and get through a work-related storm. Stay home, if possible. Quiet chugging away leads to maximum productivity. PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 7 An old upset could resurface today. Make sure you understand what other people want from you. Don't take your health for granted. Sometimes a rest break keeps a virus away. ©2011, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.
-Ty Thompson is a creative writing graduate student. Reach him at cosythews@yahoo.com.
LO O K I N G T H R O U G H O U R L E N S BY THE MEPHAM GROUP, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES
SUDOKU
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. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudokudragon.com Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com ©2011, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.
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Aztec Explosions in the Sky Staff Photographer Katie Fisher captured a photo of this glorious fireworks display at Qualcomm Stadium, bright enough to bring light to the most accomplished pyromaniac’s eyes.
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ACROSS 1 Its median score is 100 7 Weapon for Tyson 11 Christmas choice 14 Former drug giant 15 Sans employment 16 Enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, say 17 *Title role in the 2009 Tony winner for Best Musical 19 Drop off briefly 20 Shoe with a swoosh logo 21 Tex-Mex snack 22 M-16, e.g. 24 *Advantage of some military goggles 26 Bottlenecks 30 Not hard to grasp 31 Plaza Hotel imp 32 Write quickly 33 Sports car roof option 36 SkyMiles airline 37 Make, as a sandwich 38 Ethiopia’s Selassie 39 Like flannel and fleece 40 Creepy-crawly 41 Tiered Asian temple 42 Butterfly’s perch 44 Noble headpiece 45 *Freetown is its capital 48 Response to a dare 49 __ II razor 50 Actor Morales 54 Film buff’s channel 55 “That’s exactly how I feel” ... or what each starred clue’s first word can do?
BY RICH NORRIS & JOYCE LEWIS, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES
Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 58 Stat for Ryan Howard 59 Having the knack 60 Tough leather 61 Subj. that helps people assimilate 62 Niggling things 63 “Enough already!” DOWN 1 Publisher’s ID 2 Royally named liner, briefly 3 Heart-to-heart 4 Gardner of mysteries 5 Shrewd 6 When strokes begin to count 7 Rip off 8 Couch potato’s fixation 9 Pavement warning
10 Game with tumbling blocks 11 *Unauthorized stories written by devotees 12 Author Calvino 13 Confine again, as swine 18 Trails 23 “Did we get the bid?” 24 Orion Mars mission gp. 25 Acid container 26 Some arena displays, briefly 27 Bar from a dairy case 28 *Pro shop freebie 29 Pre-speech obstacle 32 St. Patrick’s Day dance 34 Ye __ Shoppe 35 Bog fuel
37 Big name in online poker 38 March __: Carroll character 40 Sound at a shearing 41 Stormy weather gear 43 USC athlete 44 Cold weather wear 45 Give the creeps 46 Sonnet line fivesome 47 Maritime birds 50 Footsteps-inan-empty-hallway sound 51 Blunder 52 BMW rival 53 “Yeah, sure!” 56 Shizuoka sash 57 Phone no. addition