Online Forty Niner: v8n2: Ourview: Pyramid ideal for event

For as long as the Daily 49er editorial staff can remember graduation has always been located in the central quad area between the Liberal Arts and Fine Arts buildings.

But it is time for a change. Although the quad area is big enough to hold the thousands of people at each ceremony, it is not the most comfortable place to be.

The weather at this past year's commencements in the quad almost washed away the excitement of the day. But light drizzle is not the only reason why commencements should be moved.

Sound is also a problem. If people are sitting far away, not much can be heard.

The seating layout is not the most comfortable for visitors. Many seats have their views of the stage blocked by trees. Seats are also placed on grass, which can become muddy after a light rain. Many guests also have expensive shoes and clothes on and making them walk in the muddy grass to their seat -- which is blocked by a tree -- is not a good way to treat campus visitors.

Our suggestion is to have graduation at The Pyramid.

This is the one location that has been marketed the most at CSULB, why not have The Pyramid the focus its most important day.

The Pyramid has several advantages over the central quad area. First, it is indoors so there's not a chance of weather ruining the day. Second, sound inside The Pyramid is excellent so everyone can hear every word of what's said.

Third, seating would be better. Graduates could be seated on the court level while the guests are placed in the stands. The main stage would be located where there is no grandstand wing.

These are not unreasonable demands.

President Robert Maxson or the student government could bring the issue up at one of their many meetings throughout the year.

We do not want it raining on us when we graduate.