11-09-2011

WEDNESDAY, November 9, 2011 Volume 97, Issue 43

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D A I LY

AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

P H OTO S Antonio Zaragoza, Photo Editor

Coach Fisher directs the team during a match against CSU San Marcos.

Antonio Zaragoza, Photo Editor

Antonio Zaragoza, Photo Editor

Peter Kluch, Senior Staff Photographer

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

NEWS

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Faculty strikes at CSU over contracts Bill Crotty news editor The California Faculty Association will have a one-day strike at two California State University campuses next week in protest against unfair compensation. The CSU system denies the faculty union’s claims of inequality and fairness in salaries and compensation at the core of the strike.

“The dispute here is over a very specific issue in our contract, but that issue is symptomatic of much bigger problems,” Alice Sunshine, communications director for the CFA, said.

On Monday, the CFA met in a special session to discuss the possibility of a one-day strike and the vote showed 93 percent in support of a strike, which will occur at CSU East Bay and CSU Dominguez Hills.

“All of us who voted ‘yes’ did so because we understand that we must now send the chancellor a plain and simple message about his skewed priorities,” CFA President Lillian Taiz said.

“We hope this … will lead to changes in his priorities and his positions. If it does not, the CFA leadership, and the CSU faculty we represent, are prepared to escalate the fight.”

According to CSU spokesperson Erik Fallis, the faculty union is making the issue excessively complicated.

“The issue is, the union leadership is willing to deny students their education over a $20 million increase for a small group of faculty,” Fallis said.

Fallis said the previous budget cuts handed down by the state of

California and additional cuts on the horizon make a salary raise for “only some faculty” unfair.

The CFA has cited San Diego State President Elliot Hirshman’s raise as an example of executive pay increases, but according to Fallis, the same example can be applied to new faculty members.

“No sitting president has received a general salary raise since 2007,” Fallis said. “Neither has the chancellor or managers in the CSU system, although some have been eligible for such a raise.”

The raises given to executives, according to Fallis, have only been altered when someone was promoted or given additional job duties.

This situation is one of the CFA’s contentions, and an example used to show an increase in executive pay.

Fallis said last year the CSU faculty was given a general raise, but the amount was a fraction of a percent because the entire dedicated amount was divided between all faculty members.

Previously negotiated contracts entitled the CFA to salary increases, however Fallis said the contract also stated the CSU could renegotiate the salaries if it did not receive a certain amount of funding. Then budget cuts occurred.

“If the state had given us the funding promised, we would have been able to provide the previously negotiated salaries,” Fallis said.

More information about next week’s strikes and informational picketing that started yesterday and will continue through today can be found at calfac.org/campus-cfa-chapters.

ANTONIO ZARAGOZA, PHOTO EDITOR

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AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

NEWS

Global diversity event coming to SDSU Carl Hensley staff writer San Diego State, known for its cultural diversity and attentiveness to student needs, is creating a place for interaction and communication between students from many different countries at next week’s International Peace Village, through the efforts of the International Student Association.

The annual event is scheduled to take place next Wednesday. It will be located on the north side of the Love Library. The event will begin at noon with a 30-minute martial arts

performance and will conclude at 1 p.m.

Luisa Orticelli is the program coordinator of the International Student Center and the adviser for the International Peace Village.

“The event is a cultural display of 50 booths that will represent either an international organization on campus or a particular country,” Orticelli said.

She said the event will contain cultural performances, with the intent to increase awareness, communication and understanding of other countries outside the U.S. According to its website, the International Student Center “advances San Diego State as a global learning community by serving as a crossroads for students from around the world

seniors have risen gradually throughout the last several years while earnings of those with bachelor’s degrees have fallen.

F I N A N C E B E AT Last year’s graduates facing record amounts of student debt A report from the Project on Student Debt stated average debt levels for college seniors were at an all-time high last week.

The Project on Student Debt is an organization that seeks to increase public awareness about student borrowing, as well as provide cost-effective solutions for financing a college education. The report noted the average debt for graduating seniors last year was $25,250.

College degrees are becoming less valuable, yet more expensive.

Average debt levels of graduating

Financial markets Stocks started off the week positive with the DJIA up 85 points at 12,068, the S&P 500 up seven points at 1,261 and the NASDAQ up nine points at 2,965.

Tuesday morning saw the markets quite nervous waiting for more news concerning the European debt debacle, only this time it was about Italy rather than Greece. The indices pared early gains and the DJIA was up a mere eight points at 12,077, the S&P 500 up four points at 1,265 and the NASDAQ up 16 points at 2,712.

Bond yields headed slightly higher on Tuesday morning following a drop of just less than three percent on Monday.

San Diego-based stock Qualcomm Incorporated (QCOM) traded higher by about 13 cents on Tuesday morning at 57.05, which is 13 percent higher than what it traded at exactly one week ago.

— Compiled by contributor Chet Galloway. Data gathered from Monday’s and Tuesday’s open on Wall Street.

seeking educational opportunities at SDSU, and for SDSU students seeking educational opportunities in other countries.”

Ashley Pakozdi, president of the ISA, said she is excited about the event’s turnout.

“This is the signature event of the year for the International Student Association,” Pakozdi said. “Because the event is in a highly trafficked area of campus this year, we are expecting a much larger turnout than previous years.”

world in the next few weeks that emphasize educating people about other countries and cultures.”

Carolina Monteiro, vice president of the ISA, said she hopes “everyone will have a good time and people will learn something new about other cultures.” She is sure the event will help integrate international students with American students, and will allow them to create friendships and learn about new cultures.

The ISA website states the International

“This event will spread the mission statement ... we will be able to share accurate information about other countries and cultures ...”

Carolina Monteiro, vice president of the ISA The event has previously been held in Montezuma Hall, but construction of the new Aztec Center has moved the event to the north walkway outside of Love Library, which is heavily populated by students at the time of day the event will be held.

“This is part of the International Education Week, which is an international event that starts on Nov. 14 and continues through Nov. 18.” Orticelli said. “It is one of many events that are happening around the

Peace Village is “an opportunity for international students to share their traditions with the SDSU and San Diego community, and that the event attracts over 1,000 participants, including school children and community leaders.”

“This event will spread the mission statement of the International Student Center because we will be able to share accurate information about other countries and cultures to SDSU students and community members,” Monteiro said.

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

SPORTS F O R E C A S T I N G T H E M O U N TA I N

AT A G L A N C E Name: Agustin Gonzalez (37-13)

Title: Sports Editor

Title: Staff Writer

Prediction: Air Force, Boise State, SDSU, UNLV

Prediction: Air Force, Boise State, SDSU, UNLV

Quotable: “LSU vs. Alabama? Everybody knows UNLV vs. New Mexico is the real game of the century.”

Quotable: “Seven and one. Hop on the Niners’ bandwagon while you still can.”

Name: Ryan Schuler (39-11)

Name: Beau Bearden (37-13)

Title: Staff Writer

Title: Contributor

Prediction: Air Force, Boise State, SDSU, UNLV

Prediction: Air Force, Boise State, SDSU, UNLV

S AT Nov. 12

WHO: SDSU vs. Colorado State WHEN: Saturday, 3 p.m.

WHERE: Fort Collins, Colo.

WHY TO WATCH: The Aztecs are looking to become bowl eligible in back-to-back seasons for the first time since the 1966 and 1967 seasons.

vs.

Name: Antonio Morales (40-10)

Quotable: “Follow me @Ryan_Schuler; it’s not that hard, people. Also, shout out to KCR College Radio. That is all.”

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Follow me @AntonioCMorales

F O O T B A L L S TA N D I N G S TCU plays against Boise State this weekend, and the winner will have the inside track to the conference.

Here are the standings as of yesterday.

7-2 (4-0)

8-0 (3-0)

5-43 (2-1)

5-3 (2-2)

3-5 (1-2)

2-6 (1-2)

5-4 (1-3)

0-9 (0-4)

Quotable: “Three basketball games this weekend? I don’t have enough dress shirts for all those. #Formergeckshowproblems.”

Wyoming at Air Force, TCU at Boise State, San Diego State at Colorado State, UNLV at New Mexico

BEHIND THE NUMBERS

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FOR SDSU FOOTBALL

Advanced Test Preparation

1

Win needed for SDSU to gain bowl eligibility

2

Wins needed by the Aztecs to guarantee a bowl game

13

Rushing touchdowns for Ronnie Hillman in 2011

21

Turnovers forced by the SDSU defense this season

10

Interceptions by the Aztec defense

5

Interceptions for Larry Parker

3

Teams ahead of SDSU in the MW standings

4

Games left in the regular season

Advanced Test Preparation

Score Higher, Aztecs!

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D A I LY

AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

SPORTS

FOOTBALL

SDSU on the brink of back-to-back bowls Antonio Morales sports editor When the San Diego State men’s basketball team made the NCAA Tournament last spring, it was the first time in school history the team had made back-to-back tournament appearances.

Even though it may seem like it has never happened, thanks to the football team’s success (or lack there-

on it and realize what it was, but for us the attitude and the environment has totally changed to where we don’t really think about that anymore.

We set such a higher standard for ourselves as individuals and as a team.”

A team needs six wins for bowl eligibility, but it doesn’t guarantee a trip to a bowl game. Head coach Rocky Long has said a number of times that the team probably needs seven wins in order to assure itself a bowl berth.

Senior linebacker Miles Burris was excited about the possibility of mak-

“It’s been a journey; there’s been a ton of improvement.

It’s almost to the point now where I guess years from now we’ll look back on it...”

Ryan Lindley, SDSU senior quarterback of) prior to last season, the team is on the verge of making consecutive bowl games for the first time since the 1966 and 1967 seasons.

This is quite an accomplishment, considering the team was 2-10 just three years ago.

Senior quarterback Ryan Lindley was the quarterback on that 2-10 team and has since guided the team toward the road of success it is currently on.

“It’s been a journey; there’s been a ton of improvement,” Lindley said. “It’s almost to the point now where I guess years from now we’ll look back

ing a return bowl trip, but realizes the Aztecs haven’t accomplished anything yet.

“It feels good; it’s good to know that it hasn’t been done in awhile and we have a chance to do it. But we have to go do it first, obviously,” Burris said at SDSU’s weekly press conference. “Six (wins) makes you bowl eligible, but we have to win at least seven (games) to make sure that we can go for sure. We’re just trying to have the best season we can. If the bowl game happens,

ANTONIO ZARAGOZA, PHOTO EDITOR

that’ll be great but right now all the focus is on Colorado State.”

The Aztecs need a win against the Rams to become bowl eligible. CSU is 3-5, but boasts playmakers on both sides of the ball.

Sophomore running back Chris Nwoke leads the team in rushing with 554 yards and six touchdowns.

Sophomore linebacker Mike Orakpo leads the team in tackles with 64, while sophomore defensive lineman Nordly Capi leads the Rams

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with eight sacks.

Long said he expects CSU to play its best game of the season as it is trying to keep its own hopes for a bowl berth alive.

“Colorado State has talented players in a lot of positions,” Long said.

“Their wide receivers are really good, their running backs are pretty good, their offensive line is good and on defense, their defensive line is the best in the league at rushing the passer.”

Not to be overlooked is CSU soph-

omore quarterback Pete Thomas, who is a San Diego native from Valhalla High School.

According to Long, Thomas has a better grasp of the offense this year.

That might be a scary proposition for the Aztecs, because Thomas threw for 266 yards against SDSU last season as a true freshman.

There’s no doubt the Aztec defense will have to stop Thomas in order to gain a second consecutive bowl berth.

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

FOOD & DRINK

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Early-hour eateries serve post-party edibles Ani Araya staff writer It is hard to imagine life beyond the walls of Trujillo’s and the heavenly creation of the Sigma Pi burrito, but San Diego is bursting with afterhour restaurants and food stands to satisfy dangerous intoxicated munchies. From hot dogs with a unique twist in the hustle and bustle of Pacific Beach to organic hamburgers in the sophisticated Gaslamp Quarter, there is a little bit of everything to fulfill imbibed hunger past 2 a.m.

Berkeley Pizza Back in the day, Berkeley Pizza was solely a delivery service with no set restaurant location. Now, the oneof-a-kind pizza place is located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, a stone’s throw from Stingaree.

Berkeley Pizza serves customstuffed pizzas by the slice or entire pie until 3 a.m. every Friday and Saturday.

Each pizza is created from scratch to ensure the true essence of family cooking, which Berkeley Pizza originated from. The pizzas are thick with toppings rather than a heavy crust, and the surface of the pie is layered with hearty, stewed tomatoes.

However, take note: Berkeley Pizza wants customers to remember good things come to those who wait. Each pizza takes about an hour to bake and slices of pizza are served fresh out of the oven.

Burger Lounge in Gaslamp There is a way to maintain culinary standards, even after a couple of Long Island iced teas. Burger Lounge is the miracle on 5th Avenue for late-night food fiends. Although

the restaurant has five other San Diego locations, this spot is open latest. The chic, modern ambiance of the restaurant is the perfect setting for a premium quality food menu available until 3 a.m. every Friday and Saturday. According to the restaurant’s website, Burger Lounge serves healthy food items produced in a sustainable environment. All meat products come from one farm that keeps the animals free from hormones and antibiotics. With menu options such as a Wild Alaskan Salmon Burger with fried green tomato and a house-made barbecue glaze and side options including a fresh vegetable salad or fresh-cut french fries, Burger Lounge can keep the heart and stomach happy.

Pink Noodle Pink Noodle is a Thai restaurant that offers exactly what the name implies. Open seven days a week, and on Friday and Saturday until 3 a.m., this restaurant is situated in Hillcrest and features an entrée of noodles called Pink Lady that may appear a bit peculiar to the intoxicated eye. However, don’t be fooled by the odd color. This exotic noodle dish is a combination of pink-dyed rice noodles served with a choice of chicken or tofu, covered with creamy red coconut sauce. The cocktail menu continues this rosy theme with signature martinis such as Pink Princess, a mix of vodka, lychee syrup and raspberry puree, and French Kiss, a mix of vodka, pineapple, cranberry, raspberry puree, triple sec and champagne.

The flavorful Thai cuisine of Pink Noodle is exactly what the latenight doctor ordered when the classic California burrito just won’t do.

Mateo’s Hot Spot A night out in Pacific Beach would

CHELSEA MASSEY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

not be complete without a hot dog from Mateo’s Hot Spot. Rated the No. 1 San Diego hot dog joint on Yelp, Mateo’s travel carts are a PB post-bar favorite. However, forget about ketchup and mustard. These

dogs can be customized with mouthwatering condiments such as cream cheese, spicy homemade chili, grilled onions and hot nacho cheese. It’s a dream come true for munchie victims, and with three hot

dog carts located throughout PB, there is no excuse to not experience a classic PB delicacy. If it wasn’t already accessible enough, Mateo’s Hot Spot also accepts any type of debit and credit card, so there is no need to stop at an ATM beforehand.

Select study spots satisfy midnight cravings

THINKSTOCK

Brittany Fasano staff writer

finals week than to venture out into the ambiance of a local coffee shop or restaurant. With convenience, great food, drinks and atmosphere,

It’s that time of year again. As the weather cools, the promise of winter break approaches. However, with that assurance comes the looming cloud of finals. What better way to triumph through many late nights of

late-night studying has never been so entertaining.

Students seeking a change from the ho-hum drab of the library should check out local coffee shops.

Those who live close to campus can

head to the Living Room Café or Café Europe, both within a fiveminute drive from San Diego State, and are open until the early hours of the morning. Like most coffee shops, these two establishments have free Wi-Fi, inexpensive and delicious menu items and an all-around friendly environment.

“I like the big mugs of hot chocolate when studying for midterms or

finals. The atmosphere is so laidback. It’s just a great place to go when you want to study or hang out with friends,” journalism sophomore Melissa Buendia said about the Living Room Café.

Students seeking a 24-hour coffee shop should visit Filter Coffee House in Hillcrest. It offers free Wi-Fi, various delectable coffees and desserts, an inviting atmosphere and an interesting array of people with whom to converse. This indie hot spot is the whole package.

Another after-hours study spot worth checking out is Lestat’s Coffee House in Normal Heights. Lestat’s also has a second location in University Heights, known as Lestat’s on Park. This coffee shop is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It offers fair-priced menu items, casual ambiance, live music and free Wi-Fi. The eclectic shop on Adam’s Avenue is also a concert venue with mismatched furniture and indie wall décor. Those wanting to create an adventure from their study time needn’t look any further.

“I really enjoy the overall feel of Lestat’s. It’s the perfect place to go for late-night studying before finals week, especially because there are always plenty of places to sit,” psychology sophomore Taylor Knecht said.

If Lestat’s happens to be too busy as finals approach, Rebecca’s Coffee House in South Park is a convenient option. Open late during the week, and 24 hours from Thursday to Sunday, this place is a quirky alternative to casual coffee stops. With free Wi-Fi, inexpensive prices for awesome food, welcoming service and a

relaxing atmosphere, there is no comparison.

“If you happen to be in the area on a Thursday night, check out the open mic night. It is one of the best in San Diego, even rivaling Lestat’s,” frequent performer Luke Henning said.

Just be sure to have cash on hand because Rebecca’s does not accept credit cards.

Students who are not fans of coffee shops, but still want to experience a different atmosphere and a tasty snack while studying late can try Brian’s 24 or Rose’s Donuts. Both establishments are open 24 hours and are highly acclaimed.

Brian’s 24 in the Gaslamp Quarter has free Wi-Fi, a vast array of menu items to choose from, excellent customer service and renowned chicken and waffles. This is definitely a cozy place to study — a home away from home. Brian’s 24 rivals the home-cooked style of IHOP or Denny’s with its classic food options and friendly surroundings.

Rose’s Donuts in Linda Vista is also open all day and night, and is considered by some to be one of the best doughnut shops in San Diego.

Those looking for a small, quaint, independently owned shop with free Wi-Fi and delectable, light and fluffy doughnuts should give this place a shot. It is a spot for students looking for a quiet place to study while snacking on a mouthwatering treat.

With so many diverse and lively establishments available to studious night owls, students only need to decide where to spread out their textbooks while determining what kind of coffee would go best with a blueberry muffin.

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AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Rahon’s road back to SDSU leads to bigger opportunity Ryan Schuler

:

STAFF WRITER

The exact distance from the Torrey Pines High School gymnasium in North County San Diego to Viejas Arena on the San Diego State campus is 20.1 miles. The former is where junior guard James Rahon could have been found playing basketball four years ago, the latter is where Rahon can be found playing basketball now.

Despite the short commute between Rahon’s alma mater and SDSU, the journey was not always a smooth one.

There were some bumps in the road, not to mention a very long detour.

Going into his senior year of high school, Rahon knew he had a tough decision to make. After enjoying an impressive junior season in which he averaged 26.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game, while being named the Palomar League Player of the Year, interest for the then-point guard from San Diego was heating up and scholarship offers were coming in.

Regarded as one of the best shooters in

When he finally narrowed down his list of schools, only two remained: Santa Clara University and SDSU. He could head to Northern California with the chance to play right away or he could stay in his hometown and play in front of his family and friends on a regular basis. The choice was his.

“It was extremely close,” Rahon said of his decision between the two schools.

“It was between here and there.”

In the end, he would choose to pack his bags and head north to play basketball for Santa Clara.

“I wanted to experience a new place.

I’ve been here my whole life. I just wanted a different experience,” Rahon said.

Fast-forward 18 months.

Rahon was coming off a freshman campaign in which he earned West Coast Conference All-Freshman Team accolades after averaging 11.3 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists and shooting a team-best 40.7 percent from beyond the arc for the Broncos. He would finish as the third-leading scorer on the team that year and play in 32 of Santa Clara’s 33 games in the 2008-09 season. Many figured he would be a major part of the program’s future.

ANTONIO ZARAGOZA, PHOTO EDITOR

“ FILE PH OTO

the country, Rahon knew it was time to decide which school he would be “taking his talents to.”

The high-scoring sharpshooter with the quick release and deep range was being coveted by numerous West Coast programs, including Loyola Marymount University, the University of San Diego and the University of Utah.

Yet, throughout his freshman year, thoughts of transferring ran through Rahon’s head. After discussing the matter with his parents, it was decided it would be best if he left Santa Clara.

“It just wasn’t the right situation for me,” he said. “But I think it was a really good experience for me to go to Santa Clara first. I did grow from it, so I

think it has only helped me so far.”

After news broke he was transferring, various programs from throughout the country showed interest. Though many schools were in the running, only a few stuck out in his mind.

“I did talk to a couple schools. Cal, SDSU, Georgetown and Santa Barbara were really my main four.”

It was back to step one. It was time for another decision about where he would go to school and play basketball. This

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This year, I’m going to get a lot more opportunities to show my full repertoire, so I’m excited.

James Rahon, SDSU junior guard

time though, the decision was much easier to make than the first time around.

The 6-foot-5-inch, 210 pound shooting guard would head home to San Diego to play for SDSU. He was officially an Aztec.

“I knew the coaches here and I was really comfortable with them,” Rahon said of his decision to transfer to SDSU. “Coach Fisher and me had a great relationship, so I knew this was the right place for me. They let me in with open arms.”

Rahon would sit out the 2009-10 season because of NCAA transfer rules, yet still practiced with the team the entire season and ran opposing teams’ offenses at practice.

Then, during last season, Rahon finally got his chance to put on the Aztec uniform and play for the first time in front of his hometown fans.

Even though he was primarily a substitute, Rahon played a vital role during SDSU’s magical season, which ended with an overall record of 34-3 and a berth in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament.

During the season, he played all 37 games, while starting six times. He averaged 7.0 points and 1.6 rebounds in 21.6 minutes per game. He shot 42.7 percent from the field and 43.4 percent from beyond the arc.

”

“We did know coming in that we were going to be a very strong team,” Rahon said of last season’s Sweet 16 team.

“We knew we were a little under the radar, but we liked that and we strove from that.”

Coming into this season, Rahon knows things will be different. His role on the team and expectations of him will be different from last season. He will now be called on to lead the team as a starter.

“This year, I’m going to get a lot more opportunities to show my full repertoire, so I’m excited,” Rahon said of being a starter. “I don’t really feel any other added pressure. I just feel like I’m ready for this opportunity that is given to me.”

Rahon knows expectations are high coming off last season, yet he emphasized this is a different team than last season’s, with its own personality.

“I don’t think we’re really worried about that right now,” Rahon said of replicating last season’s results. “We’re more worried about looking at it one game at a time. We’re not trying to be someone we’re not, so we’re just trying to be ourselves right now and just trying to focus on getting better each and every day.”

It’s been a long road from Torrey Pines High School to Santa Clara to SDSU, but Rahon now feels he is where he’s supposed to be: back home in San Diego.

“I knew I was coming into a great program,” he said. “I love winning, and that’s what happened last year, so hopefully we can continue doing that.”

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

BASKETBALL PREVIEW

9

The X-man looks to be the X-factor for the Aztecs Antonio Morales

:

ANTONIO ZARAGOZA, PHOTO EDITOR

SPORTS EDITOR

When former San Diego State point guard Richie Williams graduated two years ago, the succession plan was already known.

D.J. Gay was set to step in for Williams as soon as the four-year starter finished his career at SDSU. Now that a four-year starter, Gay, has graduated, it’s time for someone new to step in and fill the point guard shoes of Gay and Williams.

This successor might be unfamiliar to fans, but they’ll become familiar with sophomore guard Xavier Thames soon enough.

Thames took the road less traveled to arrive on Montezuma Mesa.

The sophomore from Sacramento was a top-20 point guard in the country when he was at Pleasant Grove High and elected to go to Washington State right out of high school in 2009.

But a year later, Thames decided it was time to move on from WSU and began looking for a change of scenery.

As soon as he met the SDSU coaching staff, his heart was set on becoming an Aztec.

“Mainly, the coaching staff,” Thames said, when explaining the reason he decided to attend SDSU. “I felt a good connection with Coach Fisher, Little Fisher (assistant coach Mark Fisher), Coach Dutcher, even when Coach

2

“

I like playing defense, I like my midrange shot, just going out there, having fun... getting my teammates involved.

Xavier Thames, SDSU sophomore guard

Hutson (now at UNLV) was here I felt a good connection with them and the players as well. They really took me in and took care of me on my visit. Those are the two main reasons I came here.”

It’s no surprise Thames decided to come to SDSU; the school has had success with transfers in the past. James Rahon, Malcolm Thomas, Lorenzo Wade and Tony Bland are some notable transfers in recent Aztec history.

FILE PHOTO

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FILE PHOTO

But like most transfers, Thames had to sit out a season because of NCAA transfer rules.

While he was able to practice and be a part of the team last season during the Sweet-16 run, when it came to game time, Thames had to watch from the bench.

Competitive athletes, like Thames, want to play all the time, so the sophomore is ready to step onto the court to make an impact this season.

“I’m real anxious to get out there and play with

the guys,” Thames said. “I had a whole year off and I’ve never taken a year off in any sport since I was little, so I’m really anxious to get out there and play.”

Thames imitated the likes of Kemba Walker and Jimmer Fredette while on the scout team last season, but also learned during his year off.

He had the luxury of watching one of the steadiest point guards in the nation as he observed former team captain Gay, who hit a number of big shots and controlled the flow of the Aztec offense.

Thames said he gained a lot by being around Gay. “I learned a lot from D.J. last year; I talked to him a lot,” he said. “I learned the defensive schemes, coming off of pick-and-rolls and different things like that. He would teach me a lot, so it helped a lot last year.”

Now that Gay is gone, it’s Thames’ time to shine as SDSU’s point guard.

Although Thames practiced with the team last season, he still needed to develop chemistry with the team. He’s doing so on and off the court.

“I’ve gotten used to playing with Chase and everybody,” Thames said.

“It’s a family atmosphere out here, everybody gets along and we all go out together.”

While building a more personal relationship with his team, Thames also developed his game.

Before the first practice of the preseason, head coach Steve Fisher said Thames was significantly better this year than he was a year ago.

According to Thames, he went to the gym twice a day to lift and work on his three-point shot during the summer.

“He would be here early and stay late,” Fisher said. “He worked on ball skills. You would see him pounding two balls, getting with a coach working on seeing the floor, thinking like a point guard. He worked on his game, he really did.”

Thames learned a lot in the last year and was taught many things by coaches and players alike.

But one thing you can’t teach is size.

Thames stands at 6 feet 3 inches, 195 pounds. That’s vastly different from Gay and Williams, who were both shorter than 6 feet, even though Gay was listed at a generous 6 feet tall.

Thames’ height will give the Aztecs an added dimension this season.

“He brings more size to the point-guard position and that’s a huge luxury,” Fisher said.

“He can get into traffic and find people a little easier. He’ll be able to guard three different positions while still being our point guard.”

As a bigger point guard, it’s fitting Thames patterns his playing style after one of the biggest point guards in the NBA. “I like Deron Williams,” he said. “I watch him a lot and Chris Paul. I like the way they work off the pick-androll. So those are the two main guys I watch a lot.”

Some people think Thames may be more of a combo guard than a true point guard.

Fisher dismissed that notion rather quickly.

“He can play off the ball,” Fisher said. “But he’s a point guard. He’s worked very hard with his ball skills and everything that goes into leading a team with the ball. He’s a good leader.”

Fisher holds Thames in high regard, as does the media. Thames was tabbed as the Mountain West Conference Preseason Newcomer of The Year by the media last month.

The newcomer label suits Thames well, because many Aztec fans have never really seen him play before.

Thames said the fans should expect him to give everything he has on the court.

“Playing hard each and every possession like it’s my last,” Thames said. “I like playing defense, I like my midrange shot, just going out there, having fun and getting my teammates involved.”

Individual accolades aside, Thames has one focus this year: winning.

“For the team, just trying to win another Mountain West Conference Championship and go to the tournament, those are the two main goals,” Thames said.

10

D A I LY

AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Men’s position-by-position

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

BASKETBALL PREVIEW

11

Women’s position-by-position

1 11 4 22 55 5 2 14 10 54 Antonio Morales

James Rahon

Rahon, SDSU’s three-point sharpshooter, shot 43 percent from behind the arc last season, but his play evolved during the course of the year. During the Mountain West Conference and NCAA Tournaments, Rahon showed his ability to handle the ball and hit the mid-range jumper. The junior’s role, along with Tapley, should increase this season. Rahon said he’s ready for a larger role and came to SDSU planning to play a bigger part of the team. Rahon will be sharing minutes with sophomore guard Jamaal Franklin, who is expected to be the team’s human highlight reel. Franklin is probably the most athletic player on the team and will likely play more this year after showing flashes of what he can do at the end of last season. Franklin was suspended indefinitely last week by Fisher and there is no timetable on his return.

:

doesn’t have the same type of luxury after losing four of the five starters from a season ago.

Here’s a look at what the starting five might look like for SDSU this year.

SPORTS EDITOR

Antonio Morales

:

SPORTS EDITOR

While the San Diego State men’s basketball team is undergoing a few changes, the women’s team is also experiencing an overhaul.

Head coach Beth Burns welcomes

Entering last season, San Diego State men’s basketball head coach Steve Fisher knew which players he would have on the floor to comprise the starting five. This season however, Fisher

seven new players to the team, five of whom are true freshmen.

SDSU is looking to rebound from last year’s disappointing season. The media believes the Aztecs will bounce back, as they were picked to finish second in the Mountain West Conference in the preseason media poll.

Here’s a look at what the SDSU lineup will look like this season.

Melissa Sweat

Chase Tapley

Sweat played in all 29 of the Aztecs’ games last season.

She averaged 3.9 points a game and shot 45 percent from the field. Sweat, from Bakersfield, is a sophomore.

Sweat is a left-handed guard, who is able to get out and score on the fast break. If sophomore Kiyana Stamps is healthy, she may see some playing time. Stamps has missed most of the last two seasons after she injured her anterior cruciate ligament in November 2009.

Tapley, a junior guard, is the lone returning starter from last season’s campaign. Tapley is the most experienced returning player, since he started his first two years on campus. As a sophomore, Tapley averaged 8.6 points a game; expect those numbers to increase this season as he becomes one of the focal points of the Aztec offense.

He is a strong shooter, which explains his career 49.2 percent shooting percentage. Many people are expecting Tapley to be the team’s leading scorer this season, because he will have more opportunities.

Garret Green

During the preseason, Green has been described by Fisher as “Manna from Heaven” after the former Louisiana State University Tiger landed in the laps of the Aztecs. Green is just what SDSU needs. The 6-foot11-inch senior forward has the size and experience the Aztecs lack, as Green played in every game at LSU last season. He is needed to help protect the rim for SDSU, which is expected to be a guard-oriented team this season. Green is a graduate student and is in his last year of eligibility.

Kalena Tutt

Xavier Thames

Thames, from Sacramento, redshirted during last season’s Sweet-16 run but was able to learn about the point guard position by observing the steady play of former Aztec point guard D.J. Gay. The sophomore transferred from Washington State and is expected to be the starter at the point this season. He also gives SDSU something it didn’t have at the position with Gay or Richie Williams: size. Thames, who stands at 6 feet 3 inches, will be able to sort his way through traffic and defend multiple positions thanks to his height. Expect sophomore LaBradford Franklin to see playing time as well, as he was the backup for Gay last season.

Chairese Culberson

Culberson, a true freshman from Oakland, is expected to contribute right away for the Aztecs. The forward, listed at 6 feet tall, was the highest-rated recruit in SDSU’s latest recruiting class. She is expected to help the Aztecs in the rebounding department and provide energy while on the floor. She led Berkley High School to a 31-2 record during her senior season and finished as a state runner-up in Division-I. Culberson was rated as the 46th overall recruit by hoopgurlz/espn.com.

Men’s schedule

Tim Shelton

Shelton, a fifth-year senior from Fresno, will most likely start as long as his knees allow him, for he has battled knee injuries his entire career. The team will need Shelton to step up this year and provide some inside presence after losing all three front-court starters from last season. At 6 feet 7 inches tall and 245 pounds, Shelton is one of the bigger players on the squad. He averaged 9.4 minutes a game last season, and the coaches have been monitoring his workload in the preseason. Look out for junior college transfer Deshawn Stephens to see some playing time behind Shelton as well. Stephens will be a player to keep an eye on because he didn’t play high school basketball, but has size and athleticism.

Chelsea Hopkins

The 5-foot-8-inch junior guard is eligible to play this year after having to sit out a year because of NCAA transfer rules. Hopkins redshirted last season after transferring from Duke. She is the team captain and Burns said her confidence and talent will help integrate the youth the Aztecs have this year. According to Burns, Hopkins is the most talented player on the team. She has also been labeled as a great defender. She played in 46 games during her two-year stay at Duke and has two years of eligibility left.

Tutt is back for her senior year and is expected to start for SDSU this season after coming off the bench her first three seasons on campus. Tutt has been named the team’s most improved player two years in a row. She averaged 16.7 minutes a game last year, doubling the 8.8 minutes a game she averaged as a sophomore. Tutt provided the Aztecs with 3.6 points and 3.1 rebounds a game last season. She is a solid rebounder and can block shots; she had 10 blocks as a junior.

Women’s schedule

Nov. 11 Bryant 7:30 p.m. PT

Jan. 14 UNLV 1 p.m. PT

Nov. 14 Arkansas Pine Bluff 7

Jan. 18 New Mexico 7 p.m.

Nov.12 Southern Utah 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 18 at New Mexico 8 p.m. MT

p.m.

Jan. 21 at Air Force 11 a.m.

PT

Jan. 21 Air Force 7 p.m. PT

Nov. 18 DePaul (at the

Jan. 24 Wyoming 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 13 UC Davis 3 p.m. PT

Jan. 24 at Wyoming 6:30 p.m.

University of Hawaii) 7 p.m.

Jan. 28 Colorado State noon

Nov. 15 at Baylor 1 p.m. CT

MT

Nov. 19 at Hawaii 4 p.m.

Feb. 1 at Boise State 6 p.m.

Nov. 17 USC 7 p.m. PT

Jan. 28 at Colorado State 2 p.m.

Nov. 20 Portland (at UH) 5 p.m.

Feb. 4 at TCU noon

Nov. 19 Long Beach State 1:30

MT

Nov. 26 Washington 1 p.m.

Feb. 11 UNLV 2 p.m.

p.m. PT

Feb.1 Boise State 7 p.m. PT

Nov. 30 at UCLA 7 p.m.

Feb. 15 at New Mexico 6 p.m.

Nov. 23 at Arizona 6:30 p.m. MT

Feb. 4 TCU 7 p.m. PT

Dec. 2 at Washington State 7

Feb. 18 Air Force 2 p.m.

Nov. 26 at UC Santa Barbara 7

Feb. 11 at UNLV 1 p.m. PT

p.m.

Feb. 21 at Wyoming 5 p.m.

p.m. PT

Feb. 15 New Mexico 7 p.m. PT

Dec. 8 San Diego 7 p.m.

Feb. 25 at Colorado State 1 p.m.

Nov. 30 Creighton 7:30 p.m. PT

Feb. 18 at Air Force 2 p.m. MT

Dec. 16 at UC Irvine 7 p.m.

Feb. 29 Boise State 7 p.m.

Dec. 4 California 2 p.m. PT

Feb. 22 Wyoming 7:30 p.m. PT

Dec. 21 Cal Poly 2 p.m.

March 7-10 Mountain West

Dec. 7 at San Diego 7 p.m. PT

Feb. 25 Colorado State 7 p.m. PT

Dec. 28 UNC Greensboro 2 p.m.

Conference Tournament TBA

Dec. 19 UC Riverside 7 p.m. PT

Feb. 29 at Boise State 8 p.m. MT

Dec. 30 Penn 2 p.m.

Dec. 22 Elon 4:30 p.m. PT

March 3 at TCU 6 p.m. CT

Jan. 4 Longwood 7 p.m.

Dec. 30 Redlands 7 p.m. PT

March 8-10 Mountain West

Jan. 7 at Cal State Bakersfield 2

Jan. 5 San Diego Christian 7

Conference Tournament TBA

p.m.

p.m. PT

Jan. 11 TCU 8 p.m.

Jan 10. Chicago State 7 p.m. PT

Jan. 14 at UNLV 3 p.m.

Courtney Clements

Clements transferred from Arizona and her impact was felt right away. After sitting out a year, Clements averaged 11.4 points a game last season to go along with 3.6 rebounds. Clements shot 38 percent from the field and 80 percent from the free throw line. She had a careerhigh 29 points on Jan. 8 against Utah last season.

Clements was so impressive in her first season at SDSU, she was voted Mountain West Conference Newcomer of the year. She stands at 6 feet tall and is a junior.

Clements played at Millikan High School in Long Beach with teammate Kalena Tutt.

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

OPINION

13

Mandatory neutering program is essential e’ve all seen the heart-wrenching commercials. As Sarah MacLauchlan’s “Angel” plays in the background, photos of abandoned animals suffering behind wiry bars flash across our television screens. Although many of us instantly lunge toward the remote control to change the channel, the evidence of animal abuse and neglect replays in our heads like a haunting echo.

Nationwide, 5 to 7 million companion animals end up in shelters every year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Roughly 3 to 4 million of those pets, 60 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats, are euthanized.

Ironically, because the death toll for abandoned animals is so outrageous, it can be difficult to grasp the severity of this issue. It also doesn’t help that once we shake off the sickly feeling we get after watching those commercials, we turn right around and continue on with our day, having forgotten how many dogs and cats are pacing their cages unknowingly awaiting their fate in the next room.

Something has to be done, and the City of Chula Vista happens to agree. Several meetings have been hosted within the past few weeks, aimed at forming a solution to this very problem. What are they contemplating? Requiring owners to spay and neuter their pets.

I expect some of you will recoil immediately, but this is the most

W

Stacey Oparnica staff columnist proactive and responsible solution.

First of all, we would be directly attacking the source of the problem by preventing additional births. It is completely illogical, and cruel even, for people to continue breeding pets in a country where millions are already unwanted.

Second of all, while avoiding as many deaths as possible is the biggest factor, there are also economic aspects to consider. The City of Chula Vista, for example, currently spends about $2.2 million on the Animal Care Facility, which housed roughly 7,000 animals last year. And Chula Vista isn’t the only city to examine such legislation.

Shelters in Los Angeles accumulated roughly 50,000 animals and ended up euthanizing 15,000. This costs roughly $2 million.

Some believe requiring pet owners to spay and neuter their pets would reduce the prevalence of euthanasia, according to an article by 10 News. L.A. has already implemented a law requiring most dogs and cats to be either spayed or neutered before they reach four months of age. While this specific law excludes certain animals, such as guide dogs, show animals, police dogs and those belonging to professional breeders, the average owner is required to spay or neuter his or her pet.

I’m sure the question hovering in people’s minds now is how we’re going to pay for these services.

According to The Humane Society of the United States, “Most regions of the U.S. have at least one spay / neuter clinic within driving distance that charge $100 or less for the procedure, and many veterinary clinics provide discounts through subsidized voucher programs.”

Another main concern is whether or not this legislation infringes on our individual rights. Some believe the average pet owner should be allowed to do what they please with their own pets. In general, I tend to agree. But what about animal rights? I realize we are all going to raise our dogs and cats differently, some more lovingly or more strictly than others, but that doesn’t mean we are allowed to do with them what we please. Certain laws, such as legislation preventing animal cruelty, were put in place to protect those without a voice.

The same concept should be applied to breeding in a world already overcrowded with abandoned pets. I realize abusing a dog or cat may not seem like the same thing as breeding them or letting them naturally sexually interact. But in the end, the result is the same. We put these animals in harm for our own selfish satisfaction and we completely ignore the consequences until it is brought to our attention.

Face it: We do not need any more puppies or kittens in this world. There are enough sitting in cages with “Adopt Me, Please” signs draped over the sides. What we need is strict legislation to prevent more animals from ending up in

MCT CAMPUS

those very cells. We must come to understand these deaths, these fates, are preventable. We can avoid them entirely if we choose to speak up and take action. Help address this issue head on. Emphasize the

importance of spaying and neutering your pets and support legislation that will keep pets out of shelters and cages.

— Stacey Oparnica is a journalism junior.

14

D A I LY

AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

OPINION

Pell Grants will not destroy US economy aul Ryan really does not like to help students.

ThinkProgress reported that at a recent town hall meeting in Wisconsin, Ryan was asked why he was so vehemently against the Pell Grant program. Despite the fact Pell Grants help millions of struggling students stay in school each year, Ryan replied Pell Grants were simply “unsustainable.” He did, however, offer an alternative: Work three jobs to pay off student loans.

For Ryan to attack a program that helps those most in need, in this case struggling college students, is nothing new. The idea of eliminating Pell Grants altogether has been echoed by many other Tea Party darlings. What makes Ryan’s statements noteworthy is the way he perfectly articulates the contempt sweeping through Congress toward the lower and middle classes.

The issue at stake here isn’t really the affordability of Pell Grants. The true question is the government’s responsibility to its citizens, and what it must do to fulfill those obligations.

This is the true ideological divide underlining every debate in Congress, from social security to defense spending.

Individuals like Ryan seem to believe government should exist almost only symbolically. He wants a small, purposeless but financially soluble entity. A government like this would do little more than cut men like Ryan a check every month.

However, there is another way of looking at government. The ideal held by millions of Americans since

P

Paul Ryan calls Pell Grants “unsustainable,” despite students’ reliance on them. | MCT CAMPUS

Leonardo Castaneda senior staff columnist its foundation is that government should ensure every single citizen has a fair chance at a good life. This equality is simple, but not automatic. Some citizens need to work from a young age and others are born into model school districts. It is the government’s job to step in and ensure those who are born disadvantaged still have a fair chance to be successful in life. The best way to go about this is by ensuring everyone who is willing to get a good education is able. Today, that means a college degree.

This simple idea of equality is the foundation of democracy. It is the economic equality Occupy protestors around the nation are clamoring for. And it is the foundation of capitalism. In true capitalism, everyone has the ability to compete fairly.

Those best suited for specific endeavors, whether it is medicine or computer engineering, naturally specialize in that and society as a whole benefits. That competition cannot be achieved if some individuals don’t have a chance to gain necessary knowledge and skills.

If education is the best path toward equality, affordable higher education is the cornerstone of any true democracy. At a time when tuition costs are becoming prohibitively more expensive, the federal government has to assist with programs such as the Pell Grants and direct federal student loans. President

Barack Obama has already started down this path, first and foremost by increasing the maximum a student can receive from Pell Grants to $5,500. He is also enacting new rules toward student loans. Starting next year, borrowers will be able to cap their monthly loan payments at 10 percent of their discretionary income, decreased from 15 percent.

After 20 years, rather than the current 25, the loan will be forgiven.

These actions by the president are based on the belief that a good education is a right, not a privilege for good times or a luxury for the few.

When Ryan offers his personal experience as one to be emulated by college students today, he shows his true contempt for struggling Americans and a dangerous detachment from reality. The idea that students and recent graduates, struggling to find even one job in this stagnant economy, should instead find three is laughable.

Ryan doesn’t really care about how hard it is for us to pay for college. For him, education isn’t a vital right for a true democracy and vibrant capitalistic economy. For Ryan and his cronies in Washington D.C., education is a luxury, like an iPod or retirement plan. They believe only the privileged few, such as the sons of U.S. Congressmen, should have access to it.

LEONARDO CASTANEDA IS AN ECONOMICS AND JOURNALISM SOPHOMORE.

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

15

L I V E A N D DA N G E R O U S

Deer Tick treats audience Celebrations add to night at Soma Courtney Rogin

staff writer

COURTNEY ROGIN, STAFF WRITER

Concerts on Halloween are always going to be a trick or a treat. For Deer Tick at Casbah on the costumed holiday, it was more a trick complete with the post-candy binge hangover.

The night was filled with average supporting bands, the highlight being the one-man band Low Volts towering on a platform over a masqueraded crowd. One foot on the kick drum and mastering the slide guitar, Low Volts gave hope to a better second half.

Around 11 p.m. Deer Tick members finally took the mainstage dressed as Elmo, one of Santa’s elves and a ‘70s basketball player. The band opened with “The Bump,” the opening track on its most recent album, “Divine Providence.” It tackled the first five songs with ease, playing straight through, with all the tracks crashing into each other.

John McCauley’s vocals are always the stage stealer, and as everpresent as his affinity for tossing beer bottles around the stage. Although he share the vocals with other band members every so often, McCauley serves as the main musical vessel carrying the set from beginning to end.

With four albums of material, the set lasted an energy-depleting 90 minutes. Even with the 90-minute set, there were still crowd favorites that missed the set list cut, prompting shouts from crowd members

masked as Mario and Luigi.

However, several of the new songs proved to be highlights, including the single “Main Street,” appeasing newer and older fans alike with its soulful edginess.

Deer Tick is known for its eclectic live performances, and Halloween was no exception. The celebration served as an invitation to bring on the crazy. Deer Tick took this to heart by including a homage to The Wallflowers by drunkenly powering through a cover of “One Headlight,” which almost seemed to be played horribly on purpose.

The cover led into McCauley’s showcase of his solo material, which made up for all of shortcomings earlier in the night. The two songs, both relaxed country ballads, won the hearts of the restless crowd.

McCauley rose to the occasion and brought in country sounds best heard in a Texas bar through his guitar riffs and scratchy vocals.

The rest of the band returned from its regularly scheduled cigarette break for one more song and let it all hang out for “Let’s All Go The Bar,” which was the best performance of the night. All the crowd members raised their drinks and shouted along as the band shouted back.

The night ended on a fun note, though the appearance of McCauley’s genitalia after a selfinflicted pantsing at the end of the song could have been saved for another time, perhaps one when all the lights were not focused on him.

Andrew Younger senior staff writer A short and simple “San Diego,” from singer-guitarist Jake Snider rang out like a warning shot of the impending sonic assault from Seattle-based math-rock pioneers Minus the Bear last Wednesday at Soma.

Kicking off its set with the cheekily titled, “Hey Wanna Throw Up? Get Me Naked,” Minus the Bear launched into a four-song block including “Lemurs Man, Lemurs” from the band’s first EP “This Is What I Know About Being Gigantic” among a barrage of strobe lights.

The emphasis on early material was part of Minus the Bear’s celebratory 10-year anniversary victory lap and, as a result, the band joyously led the audience in hand clapping and arm waving to the music. Last Wednesday also marked drummer Erin Tate’s 30th birthday and an audience-induced “Happy Birthday” singalong contributed to the revelry.

However, the centerpiece of the set was the band’s full-length debut “Highly Refined Pirates,” played in its entirety complete with interstitial music segments. As the first notes of “Pirates” opening track, “Thanks for the Killer Game of Crisco Twister,” tapped their way through the speakers, the aforementioned strobe lights gave way to a bright blue backlit backdrop that resembled the debut

album’s cover and subsequently colored most of the remaining set.

Minus the Bear’s technical virtuosity was on full display for “Spritz!!!

Spritz!!!” as lead guitarist Dave Knudson tapped and fingerpicked like an acrobat up and down the fretboard, while it was possible to envision the imaginary thought bubble over drummer Tate’s head completing the series of fractional computations necessary to anchor the complex musicianship and still keep the crowd moving.

After the end of the final track on “Pirates,” the self-congratulatory instrumental piece, “Booyah Achieved,” Minus the Bear knocked out an encore set of more recent endeavors. Back-to-back songs from last year’s “Omni” included the synthheavy “Into the Mirror” and the upbeat single “My Time.” The latter had Knudson set down his guitar and play a KAOSS pad live for its electronic melody line. Minus the Bear closed with the highly danceable “Pachuca Sunrise” — quite possibly the finest song in its arsenal.

Said simply as the opening introduction, Snider told the audience: “Thanks guys, you were awesome,” as bassist Cory Murchy gave a big thumbs up to the crowd — just in case the audience sought his approval. As Minus the Bear continues to push the boundaries of musicianship, there may be many more anniversaries in the band’s future.

16

D A I LY

AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

UNDER THE SCOPE

Holidays are fair game for ‘Harold & Kumar’ David Dixon

go to the theaters and enjoy it with a full audience.

staff writer John Cho is best known as an alienfighting helmsman of the starship enterprise in J.J. Abrams’ “Star Trek,” a perverted high school student who popularized the expression “milf” in “American Pie” and a surprisingly smart stoner with a good heart in the “Harold & Kumar” series. A kind man with a deadpan sense of humor, Cho came to KPBS San Diego to promote his new movie, “A Very Harold & Kumar 3-D Christmas.”

COURTESY OF WARNER BROS PICTURES

The Daily Aztec: You have worked with actors such as Kal Penn and Neil Patrick Harris several times now. Are you friends with any of the actors from the “Harold and Kumar” series?

John Cho: No, no, no … I’m kidding. I’ve seen almost all of them socially. Kal and I are close. He and I share a very special bond, which is being in this franchise together.

There are only two guys who know how to play Harold and Kumar.

There are so many things we can relate to about each other’s lives. I also grew tight with Tom Lennon who plays my new best friend in the movie.

DA: In your most famous roles, you have fought Romulans, been bitten by a raccoon and rode a cheetah.

How often do you do your own stunts and are you a daredevil in real life?

JC: I’m not a daredevil in real life.

For a promo for “Harold & Kumar Escape From Guantanamo Bay,” Kal and I flew these World War II fighter planes as part of a television show.

It was a situation where the pilot

DA: What do you think is the raunchiest or funniest gag in this movie?

JC: The raunchiest gag is a tribute to “A Christmas Story” where it’s not a tongue stuck to a pole, but to another body part, and it’s not an eyebrow. My favorite bit of the film was an original Christmas musical number with Neil Patrick Harris where Neil is hosting a Christmas television special and Harold and Kumar dress up as toy soldiers and the characters dance with a chorus line and him. I think that sequence is terrific.

DA: How do you think your character, Harold, has grown throughout the course of this trilogy?

JC: I thought it was cool that the characters have aged since the first “Harold & Kumar.” It’s interesting to me to see Harold and Kumar go through different stages through life. The movie starts out with them estranged from one another. Harold is off starting a family. Kumar is living in his same apartment dealing with his lady. He still lives like he is 20. Through the magic of Christmas, they come back together. The core of the movies is the friendship between Harold and Kumar. I think what allowed us to do the ridiculous things that we do is that we try to make the friendship as real as possible. We realize that without the friendship feeling real, the rest of the stupid stuff doesn’t work.

DA: How was working with notorious bad boy Danny Trejo?

JC: B——en. He is a cool dude. He’s pretty fearsome looking. Trejo never

“Kal (Penn) and I are close.

He and I share a very special bond ... There are only two guys who know how to play Harold and Kumar.”

- actor John Cho

was in the back seat, we were at the controls, but he was able to take over when we made a mistake. I had a positive attitude and thought it was going to be a breeze, but Kal was sweating like crazy before we did it. When we got up there, I was frightened. I was thinking, “What are we doing on an airplane doing loop-de-loops in the sky?” And then Kal got really into it. It was sort of Maverick, with his hair on fire. I try to do as many stunts as possible. I do as many things as I can, because I feel like people can read body language and it makes it more realistic if you can see the actual person doing the stunts.

DA: When you were a child, were you a fan of the Christmas stories that “A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas” pokes fun at?

JC: Yes, and I like to think that we pay homage to them, as well as poke fun at them. I love the seasonal specials and all the Claymation stuff. I look forward to “It’s a Wonderful Life” and all the shows coming out on television. One of the things I got the most excited about was the prospect of this coming out on cable in 10 years and watching it during that time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Another reaction I had was that this was going to be a theatrical event. The 3-D is awesome-looking and I hope people

wore his shirt on set. He had art on his skin all the time. The guy looked pretty buff.

DA: Is there anything in store for the future of “Harold & Kumar”?

JC: Not at the moment. We will see how this one does. We will make another if our adoring public clamors for it. If people want a fourth one, we’d be happy to give it to them. Maybe it will be called “Harold & Kumar Get Diabetes” or “Harold & Kumar Sign Up For Meals On Wheels.”

DA: Are you and Jennifer Coolidge going to have any scenes together in “American Reunion?”

JC: She is in it, so anything is possible.

DA: Is there anything else you would like the students at SDSU to know?

JC: Do your homework — I don’t think so. The movie opens Nov. 4.

This is a college paper so I will be presumptuous and assume that these kids have kept me in business. I’d like to say thank you to your readership. Gracias. That’s Spanish, man.

Information about “A Very Harold & Kumar 3-D Christmas” can be found at haroldandkumar.warnerbros.com.

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

17

Charitable fitness benefits every body

MCT CAMPUS

Kambra Potter staff writer Fall is a frenzy of exciting holiday parties, dreaded midterms and a surplus of calories. With the holiday season lurking around the corner, delicious treats are almost impossible to avoid.

Exercise is typically given less focus around this time of year, and any weight gain can be easily camouflaged by full-coverage fall fashions.

However, the importance of health does not hibernate for winter, and

neither should exercise routines.

Working out does not have to be a mundane task, and frequenting the gym is not the only way to stay fit.

Participating in walks and runs for charities provides motivation to get in shape and adds an extended sense of fulfillment to any ordinary workout.

San Diego is home to a multitude of walks and runs for charities. The gorgeous landscape and picturesque scenery, along with the ideal yearround weather conditions, make the city a prime location for outdoor exercise. Individuals who enjoy mak-

ing a difference and those who are passionate about specific charities might find exercising for a cause is the perfect way to burn unwanted calories and have fun, while also helping raise money for those in need.

Almost every nonprofit organization conducts fundraisers, but charity walks and runs can oftentimes be more enjoyable ways to give to a good cause than merely making a donation.

Walks for charity, sometimes known as walkathons, vary in distance and are typically referred to as 3Ks, 5Ks or 10Ks, which are the equiv-

alent of 1.86 miles, 3.1 miles and 6.2 miles respectively. For more ambitious individuals, half-marathons and full marathons are excellent ways to challenge physical strength and endurance while making a difference.

The distance of a marathon is 26.2 miles, and each year there are nearly 400 marathons in the U.S. alone, according to the Marathon Guide’s USA Marathon Calendar.

Although impressive, this number does not include the large amount of half-marathons also available each year. An even more physically challenging competition is a triathlon in which participants swim, bike and run in sequence. Triathlon races differ in distances as well, but even the shortest distance triathlon, known as a sprint distance, consists of a 750m swim and 20km bike ride, followed by a 5km run. These activities can be rewarding to complete but physically strenuous, and proper training is an absolute necessity before embarking on any distance race.

Bethany Scribner, a San Diego State senior, is no stranger to running marathons. She has been running races for the past three years and has completed nine so far. She has run in a variety of races, including The Disneyland Half Marathon, the Avia OC Marathon, the Nike Women’s Marathon and next month she will run the Zappo’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon in Las Vegas.

“The sense of accomplishment that you get when you cross the finish line is incredible, especially when you beat your personal record,” Scribner said. “While it may seem like there are a lot of runners on the course, really not that many

people can say you’ve done what you just did.”

Although she doesn’t have a favorite charity, every race she runs benefits a nonprofit organization.

The beneficiary for her upcoming race is the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America.

“Out of all of (my races), that’s the one that means the most to me,” Scribner said. “My best friend was diagnosed with Crohn’s a year ago, so I saw this as a perfect opportunity to raise money to help find a cure.”

San Diegans have no shortage of options when it comes to choosing a charity race. According to the San Diego Running Events Calendar, there are 10 half-marathons in San Diego each year, as well as two full marathons.

There are also countless options throughout the county for short-distance races benefitting almost any and every San Diego charity imaginable. Sign On San Diego lists several upcoming races, including the San Diego Center for Children’s Walk for Kids and Walk to Cure Diabetes and Father Joe’s Thanksgiving Day 5K. Individuals can also start their own charity walks to raise money for favorite causes.

The races often leave lasting impacts on the participants.

“The saying ‘It’s a marathon, not a sprint’ is so much more relevant in my life now, and I apply it to so many different situations,” Scribner said. “The races have taught me patience and that the best things in life are not only worth waiting for, but working for.”

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D A I LY

AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

Thwart technicality with intramural sports Campus leagues offer students a sporting good time Sofie Casillas staff writer There are several ways students can get involved with athletics at San Diego State. For example, many students are not aware that with a membership to the Aztec Recreation Center, they are eligible to join an intramural sport on campus.

Intramural sports allow students to create their own teams and play games against other students.

However, intramural teams are not only for students, staff and alumni.

“One thing that we do, that is somewhat unique, is that we allow community members to play,” ARC Intramural Sports and Sports Club program supervisor, Andrew Reddish, said.

Those interested in playing an intramural sport can choose from five different leagues: open leagues, women’s leagues, men’s leagues, co-rec leagues and Greek leagues.

Intramural team members have the liberty to choose between those leagues and the level of play they would like to join: A League or B League.

Students looking for a fun and less competitive league should join a B League, Reddish says. On the other hand, students who enjoy competing in more intense sports may be interested in A League. Along with choosing the sport and league, stu-

ANTONIO ZARAGOZA, PHOTO EDITOR

dents can choose the day and time they want to compete.

“For the A leagues, you start to see the same faces, same competitive teams,” intramural sports player Brandon Jackson said. “It becomes more of a bragging right and so every semester when basketball season comes around, I know what teams are going to be the top contenders and it’s always a challenge.”

When signing up, students can create their own teams, or register as free agents. According to the ARC website, a free agent is “an individual who

wants to participate in an intramural league, but does not have a team.”

If enough students sign up as free agents, a team will be formed for them.

Others may simply be looking for a one-time opportunity to participate in an intramural sport, so day passes are also offered. Unlike being a regular member on an intramural team, players using a day pass must pay a fee to participate. The fees are $6 for students, $9 for affiliates and $12 for community members.

The sports offered in the first sea-

son of the fall semester were flag football, indoor soccer, softball, volleyball and tennis. The second season of the fall semester includes five-on-five basketball, fraternity flag football, outdoor soccer, dodgeball, a one-day Greek kickball tournament and a Madden NFL Playstation 3 tournament.

“It’s all about a fun, safe, enjoyable environment for students, faculty, staff, alumni and also community members to get involved and get that competitive outlet,” Reddish said. “We offer sports that range from

Saturday to Tuesday in the afternoon ... So we have a lot of time to work around anybody’s schedules.”

In addition to, promoting an active lifestyle, intramural sports allow students to benefit from greater levels of sportsmanship and athletic skills while participating in activities they love.

“I’ve been playing sports my whole life. Other than more experience, I’ve probably just gained overall better sportsmanship, better teamwork and … learning to be more of a team player,” Jackson said.

D A I LY A Z T E C Wednesday, November 9, 2011

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D A I LY

AZTEC Wednesday, November 9, 2011

B AC K PAG E

FICTION

HOROSCOPE

Come write back to me

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (11/9/11) This year you gain a new capacity to listen, and for that you're appreciated by your partner.

Partnership and friendship bring new satisfaction. Continue figuring out how to make a difference, and leave your singular imprint. Listen to young people.

t’s happening again. That’s why I’m writing you.

Sometimes I don’t think I need sleep at all. It’s not insomnia. Maybe working nights does this to a person, makes their body forget the need to sleep.

“Listen,” I tell myself sometimes.

“Look, there’s no reason to sleep if you don’t require rest.” And I don’t, see — that’s the strangest thing. I work 10-hour shifts in the warehouse of a quilt company (they make comforters too, blankets, even kitchen towels — if you want any I can score you a discount) and when I come home, the sunrise bright against the garage doors of my neighbors’ homes, I think, “What will I do today?” not, “I can’t wait to curl up in bed and sleep.”

Maybe a few weeks have gone by like this, awake. Yes, that sounds right, a few weeks, maybe a month or so has gone by without sleep.

After work, I try to slip into bed and pull the covers over me, but that’s when I notice it the most — this energy, this urgency to move, to pace the rooms of my house and wonder about things: you, the dog I left behind. Sometimes I call people I’ve nearly forgotten and tell them about things they’ve certainly forgot, like Jimmy Eado, do you remember Jimmy? I called him a while back and said, “Jimmy, it’s Lee, from high school.”

And he said, “Who?” So I reminded him of that one

I

Mason Schoen fiction writer time during senior year when he put that rose on Maria’s windshield and wrote a note asking her to prom, traced your signature on it, and how when Ashley found out and told her brother he almost broke your shoulder with a baseball bat, and Jimmy said, “I have kids now, man, I don’t remember anything past their births,” and he hung up real quick because, well, you know, he probably still feels horrible about what he did to you, to us back then, and sometimes it’s harder to say sorry than it is to just hang up.

Listen, it’s weird, I even visited the doctor. He told me all my vitals were normal. I don’t know if he actually said vitals. Now that I think about it, I don’t know if I ever even went to a clinic at all. Maybe I just watched a show about doctors and I’m putting myself in the television. You ever do that? I work with this nutcase, this real looney, says he sees the eyes of God in camera lenses. Can you believe that? He’s always taking pictures of people doing things they shouldn’t in the warehouse. Just a few days ago he got Adam fired, so Adam stole his camera and smashed it with a mallet the size of your arm. It makes me wonder if God’s blind now, and how stupid that thought is, as if He even needed eyes to begin with.

Sometimes I think maybe I really am sleeping. Maybe my, I don’t know, soul, let’s say, leaves my body when I’m in deep sleep, and all I’m doing is dreaming of walking through my house and the neighborhood, maybe the clouds which roll past the kitchen window as I cook myself breakfast and read and listen to talk radio are only dream clouds. And the breakfast is only dream breakfast; the words from the radio are only dream words.

So I think, “OK, maybe, if I’m quiet enough, I can sneak up on my body sleeping in the next room.” But when I jump out from the hallway into my bedroom, there’s no one there, only me, awake and alive and well, and I eat and the salt I shake over my eggs isn’t dreamed, it’s real. I can taste the difference.

So maybe I’m a ghost, and people can still see me for some reason.

Maybe I died but no one knows it. If I had a camera I’d take a picture and see if I was there, to prove it to myself, but I don’t have a camera.

Write back to me. Write me something dull, something boring, an update about your life, and maybe, just maybe I’ll be able to sleep through the days again. I’ll sit here and wait for your letter. I’ll sit here and wait for you.

— Mason Schoen is a creative writing graduate student.

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 an 8 It's easy to just bluster through financially.

You've got confidence, ambition and power. Keep it inside a plan, and don't spend wildly. Make an emotional appeal.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 9 Learn how to be prepared from another's emergency. Friends are ready to lend a hand, and a strong back or two, if you need them. Better safe than sorry.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is a 6 Slow down and contemplate.

Procrastination is knocking on your door.

Indulge it productively by cleaning house, but only if you can keep your deadlines.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is an 8 - Begin a new project. Stumble upon your creative self and make things happen.

Accept a generous offer for your work. You can see farther. Focus on abundance.

LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 7 Follow your intuition when it comes to career now. Dare for bold and audacious dreams, and go for them. Pay back a debt.

The money's available. Plan your actions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 9 -

BY NANCY BLACK, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES This could be a lucky break for you.

Remember that love's the bottom line.

Material abundance is nice and could just flow easily. Say "thank you."

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 9 What you've learned is being tested now.

Don't worry about the final score, just enjoy the process. Finances flow for the next few days.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is an 8 - Your relationships are becoming stronger.

Take care of others like you would like them to take care of you. Join forces with a master of surprises.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 9 - Make sure that you get plenty of rest as the action gets more hectic. Don't take it (or yourself) too seriously, or you may burn out. Pace yourself. You can do it.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 7 - You're lucky in love for the next few days, although there may be some competition. Finish a contract or document, and get into a new project.

Your connections open doors.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - You have a lot that is hidden from view.

Find change by cleaning at home. When everything's in order, new possibilities arise. Clean finances, too (and earn gold stars).

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is an 8 - Dive into a research project. Shut yourself away in a quiet place, and the solutions reveal themselves. You retain the information with ease. ©2011, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

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.

/ DailyAztecvideo CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 It may be shown to an usher 5 Flying Disney critter 10 Semi compartment 13 Like a firelit room on a cold night 14 1992- ’93 NBA Rookie of the Year 15 Apollo’s org.

16 Recommendati ons at the salon 19 Greatly smacked of 20 At the right time 21 Intricacies of cells 26 Gloss target 27 Collector’s goal 28 Roleo roller 29 Word with weight or worth 30 __ Bator 32 Feverish fits 34 Attributes at the links 41 Exams for future attys.

42 “As __ saying ...”

43 Airport safety org.

46 Brit. record label 47 Hugs, symbolically 50 Crew tool 51 Vicissitudes of cargo space 55 11th-century Spanish hero 56 Jacket material 57 Miscellany of benevolence?

63 Not for 64 Levels 65 Talk show host Banks 66 LAPD rank 67 One in a black suit 68 Site of Charon’s ferry

BY RICH NORRIS & JOYCE LEWIS, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com DOWN 1 PTA meeting place 2 __ fault: excessively 3 Action film weapon 4 “She Walks in Beauty” poet 5 Lollapalooza 6 Like some angry email, wisely 7 Honey beverages 8 Shut out 9 __ Spice aftershave 10 Yucatán resort 11 Sharp as a tack 12 Most abject 15 It’s verboten 17 Mates for bucks 18 Didn’t exactly answer, as a question

21 Advertisement 22 Hawaii’s __ Bay 23 Birthstone after sapphire 24 Pond plant 25 It may be proper 31 Org. for Bucs and Jags 32 Biblical mount 33 Biol., e.g.

35 False start?

36 Wheelchair access 37 Bluesman Redding 38 “Man, that hurts!”

39 Asian bread 40 Old red states?: Abbr.

43 Something to step on while driving 44 “Bye”

45 “Little Women” author 47 Leader’s exhortation 48 Danish seaport 49 Had too much, briefly 52 Gogo’s pal, in “Waiting for Godot” 53 Sailing, say 54 “Awake and Sing!” playwright 58 Souse’s syndrome 59 Party bowlful 60 “All the news that’s fit to print” initials 61 Prohibitionist 62 Jazz combo horn