• Our View: France and the U.S. work together, why can't we?
  At a time when "Freedom Fries" and "I hate France" stickers abound, the United States sent some extra bomb-grade plutonium to France for assembly. After processing the plutonium, France will ship it back to the United States.

• World oil production series, part three: Energy imperialism with Iran in the crosshairs
  If one were to listen hard enough, one could hear the familiar sound of the drums of war beating off in the distance. Team Bush has begun what appears to be another propaganda offensive leading up to the possible invasion of yet another energy-rich nation.

• Terrorist beheadings are condoned by scripture
  Last week Islamic terrorists continued their violent barbarism by beheading several Westerners in Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Beheading was supposed to be something that only happened in ancient Arabia or during the French Revolution – not in the year 2004, and certainly not to an American.

• The CSU Budget – Turning a Corner with the Chancellor
  Welcome to a new academic year at the California State University. I hope that you all had an enjoyable summer term and are looking forward to a successful year on campus.

Diversions

• CSULB's Theater Arts department preparing for a big semester
  Students and theater fans alike now have reason to rejoice, as the 2004 theater season for the University Players kicks off with productions like "Cloud Nine," "Stand and Deliver," and "On the Verge."

• Latin American Studies spotlights cultural films
  For the next three weeks, the Latin American Studies Film Series will be showcasing weekly independent films based on different aspects of Latino culture.

Sports

• Nugget in the Rough
  Defender Natalie Messina is beginning to stack up the awards this season for the women's soccer team.

• 13 years without football at LBSU is long enough
  The fall is just another sad reminder that Long Beach State University has no football team.

• Former Dirtbag Crosby eyes AL Rookie of the Year award
  A former Long Beach State Dirtbag is the frontrunner to win the American League Rookie of the Year award.

• Cell phones to televise live sports
  Now Sprint PCS Vision subscribers can enjoy live college football games on their cell phones every Saturday through a MobiTV's College Sports Television.

• Women's tennis ready to start 2004 season
  The Big West Conference champion women's tennis team hits the courts this weekend to open the individual side of the tennis season at the Riveria All-America Championships in Pacific Palisades.