Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Turkey was a major media event for the past couple of days, but what is more important to notice is that this is a great political move by the Pope. Most news coverage of the Pope's visit has focused on Catholic-Muslim relations, given the outrage in the Muslim world over a lecture in September in which Benedict quoted a medieval emperor who said Muhammad's teachings contained "things only evil and inhuman.

As Democrats take control of the house for the first time in 12 years, voters in the fifth District of Minnesota were brave enough to not look at one's religion when going to the polls on election day. They elected him because of what he stands for and his policies.

We all know what is coming up a week from today: the stupid elections again. Why should we, the "young voters," care about it anyways? It is not like there is anything in this election that will directly affect us. It is more than clear that there are no actual issues that affect students on this November's ballot.

This week marked the five-year anniversary of the day the U.S. attacked Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. I must admit I am not very impressed with the progress five years later. Lately, the insurgency attacks by the Taliban are increasing daily and roadside bombing and suicide attacks are up as well.

CSUN honored five women for their contribution and service to the southern California community. More than 150 students, staff and community supports attended the seventh bi-annual Phenomenal Women Awards. Those honored included south Los Angeles Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Los Angeles Times columnist and KPCC host Patt Morrison, immigration activist and President of National Alliance of Latin American and Caribbean Communities Angela Sanbrano, communications studies professor and co-founder of the women's studies program Elizabeth Berry, and internationally recognized sculptor and painter, Tina Allen.

Don't let her age fool you. Darla Donaldson, sophomore middle blocker, walks around with a smile, but that all changes once she enters the court. The six-foot-four Matador shining star is well known among her enemies for her excellence. "When I am in the court, it is a different type of focus and getting my team together," said Donaldson, an interior design major.