The S tate Hornet October 7, 2009 HORNET INSIDE “MR. EVERYTHING”
C alifornia S tate U niversity, S acramento
Sports B4 JAZZ HANG OUT
Cafe in the day and live jazz at night. Where is this great place where people can listen to jam sessions all the way to midnight?
Features B1 IS THE MILITARY THE ANSWER? Broke and thinking about going into the army to pay for your college? Turn to page A6 and take a moment to think it over while you read Samantha Palileo’s column on that very idea.
Opinion A7 SCIENCE BRINGS IN THE GIRLS
O ne C opy F ree
So long coach, thanks
By Dustin Nosler dnosler@statehornet.com
Sometimes the hardest working athletes do not get enough credit for what they contribute to their team. Third-string quarterback Jon Loeliger is one hardworking athlete who gives it his all.
E st . 1949
John Smith announced on Friday that the 2010 season would be his last as head baseball coach at Sacramento State, capping a 32-year run. “It feels right,” Smith said. “I’ve been contemplating retirement for the last three or four years, and it’s not because I don’t enjoy what I’m doing, because I do. I’m going to miss the heck of out it.” Smith said one of his goals was to leave the team and the program in good condition, a condition in which the next head coach could work and be successful. Smith has compiled 861 wins in his time as head coach, the most of any Hornet head coach. He took over head coaching duties in November of 1978. At the time, Smith said he was told his coaching position would only be for one year. He said he was told the university was going to look for a more experienced head coach. One year turned into two, two turned into three, and three turned into 32. “When year two came, then I started having aspirations of staying here,” he said. “By year three, when I finally got the job full-time, then my goal was to try to stay here as long as I could. I guess after a while I thought, ‘Man, it’d be nice if I could stay here and coach for 20 years.’” Kansas baseball coach Ritch Price, who considers Smith his closest friend in the game, said he is happy for the Hornet and friend. “I’m thrilled for him,” Price said. “John has had a hall of fame career.” Sac State Athletic Director Terry Wanless said Smith’s efforts as a Hornet should not be overlooked. “We really need to applaud and appreciate the loyalty he
has shown and to the Hornets,” he said. Some of Smith’s accomplishments include the 1986 and 1988 Division II College World Series appearances, 16 winning seasons, 11 seasons of 30 or more wins and four seasons of 40 or more wins. Price said he thinks the retirement couldn’t have come at a better time. “I encouraged him to take his time and when he made his decision, that he felt good about it,” Price said. Reggie Christiansen, associate head coach, said he would remember Smith for what he did behind the scenes. “He worked extremely hard; harder than anyone I have ever been associated with,” Christiansen said. “Making sure that he can treat players the way he wants to treat them … that’s the biggest thing.” Christiansen said Smith taught him a lot. “He’s a mentor of mine,” Christiansen said. “He’s taught me a lot about not only the game of baseball, but I think more importantly, about life balance, in terms of family and baseball and not getting caught up in baseball becoming your job 24 hours a day.” Josh Powers, an infielder for Sac State, said Smith’s retirement could actually help the team. “I think this year it will help the guys,” Powers said. “It’ll give them a little extra ‘humph,’ you know? Win one for the Gipper.” The search for Smith’s successor has not begun, Wanless said. “We’re not even dealing with that at the moment,” he said. Smith said he has no regrets about his time as head coach and has one message for his players. “The one thing I preached to our guys who have been here is: ‘Once you’re a Hornet, you’re a Hornet for life,’” he said.
Nallelie Vega State Hornet
John Smith attended an alumni softball game Saturday, just a day after announcing that he will retire this spring. Smith has been with the Hornets for 32 seasons and led them through dozens of winning seasons and 11 seasons of 30 wins or more.
Player Reactions
Derrick Chung, infielder, junior “I was kind of shocked at first. There was a rumor going on, but we weren’t sure if he’d retire. It’s good for him; he deserves it. He’s been like a father to everybody who’s played here.” Ivan Otsuka, outfielder, sophomore “He made it so it’s not intimidating for the incoming players. He pretty much welcomed you into a family instead of just a team.” Blake Miller, shortstop, freshman “Coach Smith’s a good guy. He helped recruit me. He’s one of the big reasons I chose to come to Sac State.”
Science scores for young girls fall below those of young boys. The playing field is about to get a little more level this weekend.
News A3 HOPEFULS COME TO OFFER TIPS Candidates for statewide offices visited campus to tell voters what needs to be done to help colleges.
Online Opinion statehornet.com
The State Hornet Issue 6 | Volume 62| No. 6
• •
About John Smith
Played at Sac State 1971-72 as outfielder/second baseman Encina High School head coach for five years (1973-77) • •
Rio Americano head coach (1977)
Sac State head coach since November 1978
State Hornet File Photo
Coach John Smith sits with the team at a game last year. He announced he will retire this coming 2010 season.
Honoring internees Job training by By Gina Cruz gcruz@statehornet.com In recognition of the displaced Japanese-American students enrolled in the California State University system during 1941-42, the California State University Board of Trustees unanimously voted to award the students, living or deceased, with honorary baccalaureate degrees. On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066 during World War II, forcing
more than 120,000 persons of Japanese descent to federal internment camps. Any former CSU students whose studies were interrupted when sent to internment camps may be eligible to receive the honorary degrees for their academic intentions. If the student is deceased, any surviving family member may receive the award in his or her honor. “Giving (the honorary degrees) is a very good thing,” said Japanese professor and Japan Club adviser Kazue
Matsuyama. “Some students aren’t aware of the conflicts that occurred in California against Japanese-Americans.” The first honorary degree was awarded on Sept. 23 to Vivian Uwate Nelson. Nelson is the daughter of former San Francisco State University student Aiko Nishi Uwate, who was a Japanese-American sent to the Gila River relocation camp in Arizona, according to a press release by the California State Unisee Degrees| page A8
Sac State CCE By Kristine Guerra kguerra@statehornet.com This semester, Sacramento State’s College of Continuing Education offered two new programs to help address the 12 percent unemployment rate in Sacramento County. The two programs, the Sustainable Facilities Management and the Prehospital Education program, plan to
provide training to adults who want to go back to school and gain marketable skills. The Sustainable Facilities Management program specializes in construction while the Prehospital Education program focuses on emergency medical service fields. Industry projections by the California Employment Develsee CCE| page A8
A2
Wednesday - October 7
News Section
NEWS ROUNDUP
Sac State’s weekly news briefs and campus events Buy books from the bin and raise money for the Library
Panetta Institute, the Sacramento Superior Court and the California Assembly’s Chief Clerk’s paid interniship program will brief students on various opportunities. For more information contact Michael Waddle, Government Department internship coordinator at 278-4012.
Author gives lecture about internment camps
The University Library is selling books for as low as $1 through the Book Bin program. The Book Bin is located on the lower level of the Library and is open on the first and third Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays of every month. In addition to books, records, CDs and cassettes are also available. There is a section of donated books that are less than $1 and the Library asks that people who take those books leave 50 cents in the donation box. All proceeds of the Book Bin go back to the University Library to purchase new books for the Library. Thousands of dollars have been raised for the Library through the Book Bin program. The Book Bin has been run by volunteers for years.
ASI State of the Students address Associated Students Inc. President Roberto Torres wants students to attend the Fifth Annual Fall State of the Students Address at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday in the Hinde Auditorium. Torres will discuss the Board of Directors 2009-10 strategic plan and what ASI will be doing for campus this semester. There will be a Q&A event with Torres after his speech when all audience members can talk with Torres. Members from the Board of Directors will also be in attendance and available for questions.
Government Department Internship Meeting The Government Department will be holding it’s annual internship meeting on Oct. 13 at 3 p.m. in Tahoe Hall, Room 1027. Representatives from the Sacramento Semester Program, the Congressional
Julie Otsuka gave a lecture on her book “When the Emperor was Divine” on Monday night. Otsuka’s novel was selected as the 2009 One Book of the year. The One Book program gives free copies of a book to incoming students and discounted copies at the Hornet Bookstore so students, faculty and the public can all discuss one book. Listen to Otsuka’s own words about how her own family’s experiences and challenges led to her writing “When the Emperor was Divine” at statehornet.com.
statehornet.com
The State Hornet | Staff Editor in Chief
Assistant Features Editor
(916) 278-6584
(916) 278-5148
Todd Wilson
editor@statehornet.com
news@statehornet.com
Print Managing Editor
Photo Editor
Natalie Flynn
(916) 278-7300
nflynn@statehornet.com Online Managing Editor Adalto Nascimento (916) 278-5590
anascimento@statehornet.com
The cost of the materials for the Sasukenei smokeless wood kiln was provided by the College of Arts and Letters through a Pathfinder Grant. This information was incorrect on the page three story about the ceramics kiln. Please contact Natalie Flynn print managing editor, for corrections at (916) 278-7300 or nflynn@statehornet.com.
Graphics Editor Megan Harris
(916) 278-5590
mharris@statehornet.com Video Editor
(916) 278-5567
eguillen@statehornet.com
Leidhra Johnson ljohnson@statehornet.com Assistant News Editor Mitchell Wilson
(916) 278-5590
Web Designer Sam Pearson
(916) 278-5590
(916) 278-7248
spearson@statehornet.com
Opinion Editor
Benjamin R. Schilter
(916) 278-7567
bschilter@statehornet.com
mwilson@statehornet.com
Sports Editor
Correction
nvega@statehornet.com
Edson Guillen
opinion@statehornet.com
▶◀ ▶◀ ▶◀ Contact Mitchell Wilson in the News department at (916) 278-7248. ▶◀ ▶◀ ▶◀
Nallelie Vega
(916) 278-5500
News Editor
David Loret De Mola
Check out a video of Otsuka’s lecture about her new book at statehornet.com
Anne Morrison
Andrew Hazard (916) 278-5145
sports@statehornet.com Online Sports Editor Nick Hunte
(916) 278-4151
nhunte@statehornet.com Features Editor Christina Li
(916) 278-4155
features@statehornet.com The first copy of this newspaper is free. Additional copies cost $1. All views expressed herein are the responsibility of The State Hornet and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Sacramento State Journalism Program, the Communication Studies Department, administration, student body or ASI unless otherwise noted. The State Hornet is copyrighted, and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the express permission of The State Hornet. Signed articles, letters and artwork express the opinions of the authors and illustrators. Unsigned articles are the responsibility of The State Hornet. The State Hornet reserves the right to reject or edit all submissions. The appearance of an advertisement in The State Hornet does
Copy Chief
(916) 278-5585
Advertising Manager Diane Kauffman (916) 278-6583
ads@statehornet.com Advertisement Designer Matt Erickson
(916) 278-6583
ads@statehornet.com Professional Journalist in Residence & Adviser Holly Heyser
(916) 278-5612
hheyser@statehornet.com
not constitute an endorsement by the newspaper of the goods and services advertised therein. The State Hornet reserves the right to reject any advertisements deemed inappropriate. An advertisement is not considered accepted until publication. Further, The State Hornet shall not be liable for any omission on an advertisement ordered to be published. By written request, The State Hornet will reschedule and run the advertisement at the advertiser’s cost. In no case shall The State Hornet be liable for any general, special or consequential damages. Claims for adjustments of any error must be made no later than three days after publication date upon which said error occurred.
Wednesday - October 7
News Section
statehornet.com
A3
Legislation aims to overhaul financial aid By Kristine Guerra kguerra@statehornet.com The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation that overhauls the financial aid system by expanding aid, shifting to direct federal lending and removing subsidies to private lenders. The bill, authored by Rep. George Miller, D-Calif., passed with a 253-171 vote in the House on Sept. 17. According to the House Committee on Education and Labor’s website, the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act, if signed into law, will save taxpayers $87 billion in the next 10 years. “This legislation makes important investments to help make college affordable and accessible for all eligible students,”
said Melissa Salmanowitz, spokesperson for the House Committee on Education and Labor. “It will help us transform our student aid programs so that they finally operate in the best interests of students, not banks, and help relieve the burdens of overwhelming debt,” she said. The bill proposes allotting $40 billion to expand the Pell Grant. The maximum award will be increased from $5,350 to $5,550 in fiscal year 2010-11 and to $6,900 by 2019. “As the most need-focused federal financial aid program, strengthening Pell is essential to closing the gap in college enrollment and completion that exists between low-income students and their affluent peers,” said California State University Chancellor Charles B. Reed on
May 19 in his statement before the House Committee on Education and Labor. If the legislation is approved in the Senate and signed into law, the Federal Family Education Loan program will be eliminated. All federal student loans will be given through the Direct Loan program by July 1, 2010. Under the current system, CSU campuses participate in both the FFEL and the Federal William D. Ford Direct Student Loan, or Direct Loan program. In the FFEL program, students choose the private lender. Both the student and the university have to work with servicers and loan guarantors. As of fall 2009, 15 CSU campuses, including Sac State, switched to the Direct Loan program.
“We felt that if we wait until it’s mandatory, there’ll be problems,” Yamamoto said. Yamamoto said the Direct Loan program reduces chances of error because there are fewer people and agencies involved in the process. When Sac State was using the FFEL program last year, private lenders were giving benefits to borrowers. Now that government is reducing subsidies for FFEL, and there are not anymore benefits, Sac State has decided to switch to direct federal lending, Yamamoto said. “I think it’s good that it’s coming from the government instead of a private lender,” said Ladamia King, freshman health science major. “It just feels safe if it comes from the government.”
King hasn’t received her student loan funds for fall 2009. She said she’s been coming back to the Financial Aid Office every day to check on the status of her loan. “They might drop my classes because I haven’t paid my fees,” King said. “When I applied for spring 2009, it didn’t take this long.” If students or their financial aid are not able to pay the fees by the census date, which is the fourth week of instruction, the university drops the classes. “It’s better if the private lenders are retained to keep competition and keep interest rates lower,” said Albert Lin, junior accounting major. “If government has control, students have no choice but to borrow from the government.”
Sac State’s financial aid disbursements: 2008-09: FFEL - $79 million Perkins Loan $701,600 Pell Grant $29 million Fall 2009: $46 million
Girls encouraged to exceed in STEM fields By Blazej Bruzda bbruzda@statehornet.com The third annual Expanding Your Horizons Conference will host nearly 300 people in Sacramento State’s University Union
on Saturday. The conference is organized by the Expanding Your Horizons Network. It will provide sixth- through eighth-grade girls educational workshops and presentations to promote the
Courtesy Photo
Claudia Lucero (middle) works with female students attending a past Expanding Your Horizons conference.
science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, fields of study, according to the office of public affairs. The goal of this event is motivate girls to become innovative and creative thinkers ready to meet the challenges of science and mathematics, said Dawn Fritz, Women of AT&T director. “The STEM fields out there are underrepresented by females,” Fritz said. “We see the need to get the girls interests when they are young in hopes that they continue pursuing those fields in their education.” Statistics show that between the sixth and eighth grade, girls test scores in the STEM fields starts to fall in comparison to the boys, Fritz said. This is why conferences such as this are taking place. This event also brings benefits for the campus. The girls who
attend this conference become potential students in the future, said STEM program coordinator Sharon Puricelli. By being able to visit the university and interact with Sac State teachers, the girls become less intimidated by the campus and college in general, Fritz said. “The goal is to attract young women to the campus,” Puricelli said. “It is recruitment in as sense.” The Expanding Your Horizons Network started in 1974 by a group of women in the San Francisco Bay Area who were concerned with female participation in mathematic courses. Today, it is an international organization that holds conferences throughout the world. Conferences have been held from the US to China, Thailand, India, Singapore and Malaysia,
Fritz said. New this year is the adult program that offers teachers as well as parents a way to enjoy themselves while the girls are participating in the workshops, Fritz said. There are two programs targeted at the adults: one for teachers and the other for the parents. Both cost $20, which includes admission and lunch. The teacher’s morning program will present proven strategies that support classroom direct instruction and introduce non-traditional teaching practices. In the afternoon, teachers will have a chance to gain science content knowledge and develop teaching techniques. There will be two programs planned for parents that day as well. In the morning, a program
will teach parents how to help their children meet the challenges of completing a college degree. In the afternoon, parents can learn ways to motivate children to pursue coursework in STEM. The highlight of the event is a key point speech by Jan Nolta, director of the stem cell program at UC Davis. “Girls should know that science is cool and there are a lot of options to being a scientists or doctor and using different cellular therapies which are the medicines of the future,” Nolta said. For mentor volunteer positions, contact Adam Rechs at rechs@csus.edu. For all other volunteer positions contact Dawn Fritz at ds1575@att.com. For complete details, visit www.cce.csus.edu/conferences/ eyh/eyh09/index.htm.
A4
Wednesday - October 7
News Section
statehornet.com
STATE HORNET PHOTO ESSAY |S
A day in the life of a Sac Stat
Samantha Poulin State Hornet
Mia Matsudaira State Hornet
State Hornet photographers Mia Matsudaira and Samantha Poulin documented Matt Talaugon, sophomore family and consumer science and dance major during his journey from rehearsal to the showing of “Performance Mix,” a Sacramento State Choreography Collective production. The performances took place at Sacramento State Sept. 30 through Sunday at Solano Hall and incorporated modern dance styles. Talaugon has been dancing for four years and is looking to teach dance in the future. “I love to perform, but I have a passion for teaching,” Talaugon said. “I either hope to get into a professional dance company and in the future teach young adults in a studio.” The performance was choreographed by Sac State students and directed by professors Lorelei Bayne and Randee Paufve. The show also included a special performance from Gino Platina, dance artist and Sac State alumnus. Mia Matsudaira State Hornet
Samantha Poulin State Hornet
Samantha Poulin State Hornet
Wednesday - October 7
News Section
statehornet.com
A5
SAC STATE THROUGH THE LENS
te dancer: Matthew Talaugon Design by Nallelie Vega and Adalto Nascimento
Mia Matsudaira State Hornet
Samantha Poulin State Hornet
Mia Matsudaira State Hornet
Mia Matsudaira State Hornet
A6
Wednesday - October 7
News Section
Figueroa wins award for academic success By Inna Gritsak igritsak@statehornet.com Ramon Gabriel Figueroa, senior film studies and psychology major at Sacramento State, was selected as the 2009 recipient the William R. Hearst/CSU Board of Trustees’ Award for Outstanding Achievement. This award is granted once a year to one student from each of the 23 CSU campuses. Figueroa, originally from Mexico City, left his family and moved to Southern California about 10 years ago. After getting his associate’s degree in business administration from Santa Ana College and studying for some time at CSU Fullerton, Figueroa moved to Sacramento and enrolled at Sac State. Figueroa was awarded for overcoming adversity while maintaining outstanding academic achievement. Throughout his many transitions, battling language barriers and working two jobs, Figueroa managed to maintain a 3.91 overall grade point average. Although film directing is his primary focus, Figueroa also hopes to write his own screenplays. He believes that his knowledge of psychology will come in handy in creating better characters for his films. “Film is just my passion,” Figueroa said. “I want to be able to tell a story in such a beautiful way that people feel compelled to watch the film again.” Even when talking about his journey in overcoming adversity and achievement in receiving the Hearst Award, Figueroa said he’d rather focus on where he is now than on what it took to get him here. “Personally, I’m not too much into talking about myself in that sense because
I know everybody overcomes adversity to a certain degree,” Figueroa said. “I think everyone is intelligent. I don’t see myself as being more intelligent than anyone else or being better in any sense.” Besides being the recipient of the Hearst Award, Figueroa also participated in the McNair Scholars Program this past summer. This program is designed to prepare students from underrepresented groups for admission and studies at the doctoral level. “(Figueroa) was committed and diligent with his approach to his McNair opportunity. He did an excellent job with his research on Latino stereotypes in the media and produced a fine paper on that research,” said Figueroa’s mentor and psychology professor Gregory M. Kim-Ju. Figueroa’s research was presented to different universities across the United States including California, Pennsylvania and Georgia. “He possesses the attributes that will help students shape the future,” said Lova Jane Benson, administrative coordinator for the McNair Scholars Program. “I’d love to give back to the community and teach other students the things that I learn as a filmmaker. Hopefully, it
will help them on their road to be great storytellers,” Figueroa said. Michele S. Foss-Snowden, communications studies assistant professor who also worked with Figueroa on his McNair research, is proud of his most recent achievements. “I’m thrilled to see that others are recognizing his potential and the quality of his work. He really is a rising star, and I think it’s only appropriate that an amazing scholar and person should win this amazing award,” Foss-Snowden said. As for his source of motivation, Figueroa attributes his success to his respect for knowledge and learning. “I respect education with all my heart and all my soul. I think education is the key to change the world,” Figueroa said. Another great motivation, Figueroa said, is his daughter Jazmin. “I want her to go to college and also get a degree and help people,” Figueroa said. “That’s the main thing. Once I, or if I, become a well-known director, then I’m in a position to help people through my films or if I have enough money, to put it in charities and help other people. I know one person can’t change the world, but you can do a lot.”
statehornet.com
State Hornet Classifieds Help Wanted
Work with Children Therapeutic PATHWAYS, Inc. Seeking energetic professionals to provide 1:1 behavior and language intervention to children diagnosed with autism. Training provided. 1025hrs per week. Starting pay $1114.50 per hour. Contact the Staff Development team at mmurphy@ tpathways.org or (916)383-1105
Apartments
5 minutes to Sac State 2 bed-
room 1 bath, covered parking, laundry onsite, $795 per month, $700 deposit. 3149/3145 Occidental Dr. (916)383-6491. TOWNHOUSE 2BR, 2 FULL BA WASHER/DRYER, FRIDGE. POOL/JACUZZI. GATED COMMUNITY. FREE UNDERGROUND PARKING. ARDEN ARCADE. $1100/MO. WATER/ GARBAGE PAID. EMAIL tkuepfer@sbcglobal.net or call (831)759-8479.
Services
East “J “ Barbershop Servicing East Sacramento and surrounding area over 50yrs. Haircuts 14.00 Old school cuts with a modern touch. (916)4510415
Vehicles
1972 Dodge Challenger $5000, coupe, automatic,8 cylinder, interior black, exterior yellow, Title : Clear, Gasoline, air conditioning; email: elizabpilar@gmail.com
A8
Wednesday - October 7
News Section
Degrees: WWII Japanese students given degrees Continued | page A1 versity Public Affairs office. “Hundreds of students were removed from colleges and universities, forced to delay or abandon their dreams based solely on their ancestry,” CSU Chancellor Charles B. Reed said in a press release. “By issuing honorary degrees, we hope to achieve a small right in the face of such grave wrongs.” The United States government also recognized that students’ education was affected by their time in internment camps. According to the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, “The excluded individuals of Japanese ancestry suffered enormous damages, both material and intangible, and there were
incalculable losses in education and job training.” The decision to award the former CSU Japanese-American students with honorary degrees was prompted by a bill authored by Assemblymember Warren T. Furutani. Assembly Bill 37 was introduced to the Legislature in December 2008 and put to action on Aug. 31. Under this law, representatives from the public postsecondary education systems including the CSU, University of California and the California Community College system, are required to ensure each deserving person from their campus is awarded with an honorary degree. There will be no time limit to award these honorary degrees
and no limit on the number of degrees that may be awarded annually, according to Action Item 4 of the Committee on Educational Policy agenda. This is an exception to the CSU guidelines for the awarding of honorary degrees approved by the Board of Trustees on Jan. 24, 1996. According to the press release from Furutani’s office, 2,567 Japanese American students were enrolled in California’s higher education institutions at the time of the incarceration to the camps. CSU is requesting public assistance identifying former Japanese American students and families. Give information by calling (562) 951-4723 or e-mailing Nisei@calstate.edu.
CCE: Opportunities for employment increased Continued | page A1 opment Department indicate that jobs in both fields are expected to increase in the coming years in Sacramento County and surrounding areas. “The labor market says that there’ll be a 16 percent increase in 2014 in jobs in the (emergency medical services) field,” said Derek Parker, director of the Prehospital Education program. “It just depends on how picky they (students) are or where they want to go.” By 2016, jobs for construction managers are expected to increase by 14 percent and for construction laborers by 12 percent. The Sustainable Facili-
ties Management program is offered in partnership with the Sacramento Employment Training Agency. It plans to provide retraining to unemployed workers and employees who have experience working in the construction industry. These workers include carpenters, construction managers and supervisors, facility managers, custodians and engineers. “Part of the plan is to develop partnerships and networks with employers who have these types of positions available,” said Terri Carpenter, SETA’s spokesperson. SETA received about $7 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. About $5 million will be allocated to the retraining of
dislocated workers in the area, according to the Sacramento County website. The Sustainable Facilities Management program will be funded by a $200,000 stimulus grant awarded to the College of Continuing Education through SETA. It includes skills required in today’s facilities management, with a focus on reducing the carbon footprint of buildings, said Tonii Ramirez, senior program coordinator with the CCE. “This particular program is very important because being green has become mainstream in our society,” Ramirez said. “What the program does is it gives standards and frameworks of operating efficiencies as far as being green goes.”
statehornet.com
A7
THESTATEHORNET
Opinion
www . s t a t e h o r n e t . c o m
O ctober 7, Wednesday
| Fa l l I s s u e 6 | S a c r a m e n t o S t a t e
EDITORIAL
CSU makes up for lost time It has been more than half a century since World War II ended. During that war, our government took pre-emptive action against its enemies. After hostilities between Japan and the U.S. began, hundreds of Japanese-American students were pulled out of the California State University system. These students were then put in internment camps. The government had taken away their opportunity to be educated. Our government later passed the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which apologized for the internment. It also promised compensation for the families of those who were taken to these internment camps.
Our own university system has recently made a big push to compensate these former students. On Sept. 23, The CSU Board of Trustees began its effort to make up for the wrong that has been inflicted on these students. The CSU has begun issuing honorary degrees to students who were not allowed to complete their education. These degrees will not be from any particular university, but from the CSU system as a whole. The State Hornet supports the CSU’s attempt to correct the mistake made by our government. Erik Fallis, spokesperson for the CSU system, said these degrees are being given out for a noble reason.
2010 tries, needs help By Daniel Vasilchuk dvasilchuk@statehornet.com Sacramento State has made significant progress toward accomplishing the goals set by Destination 2010, but has faltered in seeing the initiative’s goals to the end. The initiative, which started in 2004, has since then pushed Sac State to improve its academic programs and campus visibility. The initiative’s main focus has been moving Sac State away from its commuter campus image. The goals of Destination 2010 include recruiting the best faculty, admitting a more diverse student body and revitalizing the campus and its academic programs, according to the list of Destination 2010 priorities on the Sac State website. The Recreation and Wellness Center, aimed at improving campus visibility, has not been finished, but construction is projected to be completed by September 2010. The construction of the Science and Space Center, meant to improve academics, has been postponed because of funding problems. Sac State has also focused on faculty recruitment in an effort to improve academics. But the California State University system’s dire economic situation is getting in the way of this goal. Massive budget cuts and furloughs are not the best way to welcome new faculty. Along with the budget situation comes not being able to fulfill the goal of admitting a more diverse student body. Students may be taught by great faculty members, but they are also paying 32 percent more for this education. With spring admissions closed next year except for 150 teaching students, and the overall cut in students admitted annually, campus diversity will suffer. Events such as Preview Day and visits to area churches by President Alexander Gonzalez will work to attract a diverse pool of applicants, but it may not be enough to improve current proportions.
Julie Craig State Hornet
A look from inside the Well while it’s being constructed.
With many goals still in progress, Destination 2010 seems like it has hit a few bumps. Donald Taylor, director of academic planning and quality, disagrees. He believes that we should not look at Destination 2010 as endpoint to development. “(The year) 2010, in my mind, was a point at which we could stop and reflect on where we are,” Taylor said. To outsiders such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, which accredits colleges and universities nationwide, the campus seems to have been revived with change. The January 2009 “Educational Effectiveness Review” report by WASC stated that “many of the changes at the heart of the Destination 2010 vision have succeeded, and these changes are not merely cosmetic.” The campus does look a lot better, but some of the changes have been cosmetic. Students do not really need a Barnes & Noble atmosphere in a bookstore. Living in the Courtyards is not open to freshmen. It would likely improve Sac State’s image to let freshmen live in the Courtyards as well, since the residence halls are one of the first things freshmen consider when choosing a school. University Transportation and Parking Services anticipated a good parking situation for this semester, in an e-mail sent to all Sac State students on August 2009. Parking permit prices are high. There is not much space for parking, depending on when students get to campus. So, while Destination 2010 has made a few important steps into the future of Sac State, the plan is still lagging behind.
“This degree is clearly intended to restore historical wrong,” he said. But the Hornet has to wonder why it has taken the CSU system 64 years to begin handing out these honorary degrees. The CSU has acknowledged that many honorees will have already died by the time these degrees are given. As time goes on, fewer of these students will be around to get this recognition To honor them, everyone needs to put in the effort to recognize these people who were mistreated. For the CSU system, finding Japanese-American students who were interned has not been easy. The CSU is turning to the best resource it has for
locating these students: the public. “We are actually asking for the public’s help,” Fallis said. Anyone who knows Japanese-American students who were put into internment camps should call (562) 951-4723. Students can be registered for an honorary degree at that number. The Hornet stands by the CSU’s commitment to its former students and their families. There needs to be a continuing effort to honor these people before they are all dead. On top of standing up for these students, the CSU is also pointing out a serious failure of the Greatest Generation.
Courtesy CSU Public Affairs
Vivian Uwate Nelson accepts an honorary degree on behalf of her late father Aiko Nishi Uwate on Sept. 23. Assemblymember Warren Furutani watches her speak.
Even more important: the CSU is making the effort to
give back to those who had so much taken from them.
Guest Column I stand in support of our fellow Californians adversely affected by cuts to higher education. Pulling over a billion dollars out of colleges and universities across California has real implications, and we’re just now starting to see the unrest that accompanies such drastic cuts. I believe in fully funding the University of California, California State University and community college systems in this state. It will be my top priority upon taking office to roll back these fee increases. Our state’s greatest asset is the vast concentration of human potential that’s defined us for generations. We’ve always been a land of dreamers and doers. However, I strongly believe that by investing in our people, we can grow our way back to being the world leader in innovation and progress. Now, we must recommit to developing and supporting human capital investment in
California. The robust web of colleges in California and the millions of students enrolled in them are the backbone of our economy. But the way we’ve treated universities’ and colleges’ budgets doesn’t reflect their critical role in preparing our workforce. Community college students experienced a 30 percent increase in per-unit fees this year. UC and CSU cost five times what they did in 1990, far outpacing inflation. California’s broken system of government leads to massive structural deficits, and our leaders have responded in recent years by thrusting the cost burden onto the backs of students. This is unconscionable. And as your governor, I’d say it is unacceptable and would put a stop to it. We should be talking about preparing people for the jobs of the 21st century and growing a new economy, but
we’re stuck fighting the same budget battles over and over again. The status quo just won’t do any longer. It’s time for a new direction. Let’s make it easier and more affordable for Californians to obtain higher education. Let’s stop implementing enrollment caps and raising fees. This is the wrong course of action. We need a new way of thinking about providing educational opportunities. This begins with getting as many students as possible enrolled in post-high school education, ensuring funding for financial aid programs and making sure fees are affordable for all Californians. So we start with strengthening the Cal Grant system and rolling back fee increases. But money isn’t the whole story - California has to provide more college readinessfocused curriculum in public high schools and directly link college coursework to post-graduation work op-
portunities. This will take a combination of more workforce development specific coursework and investments in job placement. Jobs in the 21st century economy will increasingly require employees to have expertise in engineering, applied sciences and math. College is the ideal venue for instilling these skills in tomorrow’s workforce. A PPIC report indicates California will need one million more college graduates by 2025 than we’re on pace to produce. We must begin educating our workforce now. We cannot wait until the economy is rosy again; by then it’ll be too late. In times of great challenge, we have to renew our resolve to fully fund our systems of higher education. Our future economic prosperity depends on it. ▶◀ ▶◀ ▶◀ San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom
Join for honor, not cash
By Samantha Palileo spalileo@statehornet.com What would you do to get your education completely funded? Duck and weave through fields of landmines and live grenades? Stand on the front lines of warfare and open fire? The branches of the U.S. military offer attractive incentives, including full sponsorship of a college or vocational education. That alone seems like reason enough to join. Making the decision to join the armed forces for the sole purpose of financial gain undermines the duty and honor that the military symbolizes. The heart of military service is service, not money. However, the rising cost of education has students exhausting all possible sources of financial aid. A sense of helplessness
could make some vulnerable to joining the military for the payday. One student loan company, Premiere Student Loans, suggests that students capitalize on the monetary benefits of military service. Its website mentions the experiential benefits of joining the armed forces. Mostly, it urges students to use the military as a personal sponsor. The site even gives tips on how to “take advantage” of the Montgomery Government Issue College Bill. The GI Bill helps cover certain costs, like education or buying a home, for both war veterans and those who serve during times of peace. It is the company’s mission to help students find ways to fund their college education, but to showcase the military’s GI Bill as a definitive answer to their money problems is misleading. Instead of focusing on the dollar signs, think about the honor of serving the country and the opportunities that arise with a background in military training. “The first core value (of the military) is integrity,” said Lt. Col. James Hawkins, director of
Sac State’s Detachment 88 Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps program. “If someone joins just for the money, they’re not being honest to themselves or to the service.” But ROTC might point you in the right direction. “Once you get into the program, you see that it’s a lot more than (just the money),” Hawkins said. With the right motives, enlisting in the armed forces is a good option and solid opportunity to better your future. “At first, it’s hard to wake up in the morning. Not everyone gets up at 5 a.m. to work out and run,” said junior management information systems major Alexander Loyola, a cadet in the Air Force ROTC program. The program, though just a taste of the full Air Force experience, poses rigorous challenges to its cadets. But the program allows a glimpse of the exciting opportunities that come along with the commitment. “The thought of being an officer in the United States Air Force (has) started to grow on me. It’s a great opportunity to see and do things that I wouldn’t get to do as a civilian,”
Loyola said. But the choice to serve and protect the country is a huge responsibility. Not everyone is equipped for that commitment, no matter how attractive the benefits are. There could even be some great opportunities right in your neighborhood. It’s just a matter of knowing where to find them. Some grocery stores offer tuition reimbursements for student employees. Other companies offer fee waivers or tuition assistance. Money is an obstacle, but there is always a way around that problem. You don’t have to dodge bullets to pay for your education.
Robyn Barnes State Hornet
ROTC doing routine drills in camouflage on Sept. 30.
STATE HORNET OPINION ONLINE What’s our Destination in 2010? What do students know about Destination 2010? Daniel Vasilchuk finds out at statehornet.com
It’s like sweet muzak to your ears Ride the elevator like a pro. Samantha Palileo explains how to at www.statehornet.com
Features
B1 Musicians jam it up with jazz THESTATEHORNET
www . s t a t e ho r n e t . c o m
O ctober 7, Wednesday
| Fa l l I s s u e 6 | S a c r a m e n t o S t a t e
Graphic By Nallelie Vega Photos by Ryan Greenleaf and Robert Linggi State Hornet
Professor Joe Mazzaferro and students Joe Berry and Caitlin Clark display their talents during a Tuesday night jam session at Capitol Garage in downtown Sacramento. By miranda marsalla mmarsalla@statehornet.com
Photo by Robert Linggi and Graphic by Nallelie Vega State Hornet
Capitol Garage is located at 1500 K St. There is no cover charge for Tuesday open jazz sessions. Those interested in performing at Capitol Garage can contact Joe Berry at joemarcelberry@gmail.com.
The lights are dim, the audience is captivated, and nothing can be heard but the striking harmony of jazz music as Sacramento State students and local residents take center stage at Capitol Garage. Capitol Garage is a cafe by day and a local nightclub and lounge by night. It is located in downtown Sacramento and has a tradition of supporting local musical talent. Every Tuesday night, Capitol Garage offers an open jazz session from 9 p.m. to midnight. Sac State students and those interested in live music are invited to come out and “jam” with the house band. These sessions begin with a house band of seven musicians. After this band performs the first set of jazz songs, the stage opens up for other musicians. Joe Mazzaferro, professor of jazz studies, said he started the Tuesday night tradition nearly two and half years ago. “I think it has grown into something really good and positive. Everybody comes out and plays and some people just
come out and watch. It’s a cool environment. We are not going to push people away who want to play,” Mazzaferro said. Joe Berry, senior jazz studies major, runs the open jazz sessions and is the saxophone player for the house band. Berry said the environment at Capitol Garage gives students who are not comfortable or established in the jazz scene a chance to meet and play with other musicians who are professionals around town. He said that playing at Capitol Garage is a great way for students and other musicians to learn from one another. “It’s kind of educational-based but, at the same time, it’s cool for all musicians in the area,” Berry said. Mazzaferro said the open jazz sessions have been a way to create a jazz scene in Sacramento and to create a great outlet for older and younger people to listen to each other and network together. “It’s a really good social atmosphere and a good way to meet people. It is really more about community. Yes, it’s about music, but there is also a sense of community with the musicians
and the people,” Mazzaferro said. “I think with our regularity here, it’s become something special.” Berry said that students who perform at Capitol Garage are trying to keep jazz alive among the younger crowd. “We are coming out for the love of the music and to bring joy to the jazz community,” Berry said. “Everyone always pins jazz with the old: music for the old people. But you can see there (are) tons of young people.” Berry said that the environment at Capitol Garage is very welcoming and comfortable. “It’s a lot of love. Most everybody here all know each other and, if we weren’t friends a year ago, we are friends now because they come out,” Berry said. Caitlin Clarke, senior classical voice major, was encouraged by Berry to participate in the open jazz sessions. She said that performing at Capitol Garage is one of the most exciting things to her because of the feedback she gets during and after performances. Clarke said Capitol Garage is a safe place for students to perform.
“It’s comfortable because most of the people that come out are Sac State students, so they are our peers and our friends. So it’s not a really strange place to go and be scared. I think that’s why it’s so special,” Clarke said. Mazzaferro chose Capitol Garage as a location because it is centrally located and easy for students to get to. He also said that the nightlife around Capitol Garage draws a large and diverse crowd of students and musicians from various regions. “This is the kind of place to come down (to). We have had musicians from everywhere. We have had musicians come in from New York, Chicago, Boston, and Tennessee,” Mazzaferro said.
To hear the musicians from Capitol Garage visit www.statehornet.com.
Coyote Grace brings awareness By katrina tupper ktupper@statehornet.com Coyote Grace is a band unlike most. Not only does the band have a different indie-folk sound, but band member Joe Stevens has recently transitioned from female to male. Coyote Grace will have a concert at 11 a.m. on Thursday
See the video of Coyote Grace on Thursday at www.statehornet.com.
in the University Union’s Hinde Auditorium for Queer History Month that will feature Stevens, who plays the guitar, and Ingrid Eyen, who plays the upright bass. Following the concert will be a workshop by the band highlighting Stevens’ firsthand account of female-to-male transition. Stevens said that although some of the band’s lyrics are based on his transgendered experience, most of the lyrics are about life experiences. Nicole Scanlan, co-coordinator at the PRIDE Center, said Stevens’ willingness to share his personal life experience means a lot to the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community.
“Transgendered issues are very foreign to a lot of people, whether they’re LGBT or heterosexual,” Scanlan said. Scanlan said it is important to personalize the term “transgendered” because it is much easier for students to relate this way. She also said Stevens’ workshop will do so by putting a face on the transgender community. Before his transition, Steven said he and Eyen played together as two girls for a little less than a year, however, during this time he felt very awkward and disconnected with his body. “I just didn’t treat (my body) very well. I smoked a lot and drank a lot. I wasn’t really going see Band| page B3
Courtesy of Trevor McKee
Band members left to right: Ingrid Eyen and recently transitioned Joe Stevens.
B2
Wednesday - October 7
Features Section
statehornet.com
Experience the thrill and rush of skydiving By cole mayer cmayer@statehornet.com Peak Adventures at Sacramento State is set to deliver 13,000 feet worth of thrills to a group of daredevils as they jump out of planes into the wild blue yonder. On Oct. 18, the outdoor recreational program will lead a group of Sac State students, faculty, and the public to the Lodi Airport on a skydiving trip. The dive itself is a tandem jump with a veteran skydiver attached to the jumper from 13,000 feet above Highway 99, where Lodi Airport’s Parachute Center is located. Madison Shepard, senior business major and employee at Peak Adventures, said she has led skydiving trips in the past. She said that before diving out of the plane, participating jumpers start off by relaxing in the hangar. “You get to see the regular jumpers practicing (and) doing tricks. It’s a calm, relaxed feeling. People are sitting around, making sandwiches by hand to eat. It’s a cool atmosphere,”
Shepard said. After jumping from the plane, the skydiver goes into a free fall for about a minute followed by a gentle floating to a ground. “The free falling is an intense rush; a feeling you just can’t simulate on the ground,” Shepard said. “The second half is calming. The chute opens, and it’s a great view. You can see the Bay Area (and) the Sierra. Because it’s tandem, your partner points stuff out (and) you get a geography lesson. My partner let me grab the handles (and) do some turns on my own. It was really neat.” During the fall, a separate jumper falls alongside the skydiver. Attached to his helmet is a camera, taking video and pictures, giving jumpers something to remember their jump. “He’s in your face, although he peels off after you open the chute,” Shepard said. “Once you land, you are shaking with energy. It’s something you want to share.” The trip is aimed at students and faculty, but the general public is also invited to join in the fun. Shepard said the skydiving
Courtesy of Peak Adventures
After jumping out of the plane, those who participated in the skydiving trip slowly float to the ground.
trip has proven to be a success with students in previous semesters. “It’s our most popular trip,” she said. “There’s usually a wait list. We have two 12-passenger vans and they are usually full.” Alicia Taylor, Peak Adventures programs specialist, said the reason why the skydiving excursion draws students in is simple. “It’s exciting, jumping out of a plane,” Taylor said. “It’s on a lot of people’s list to do.” Shepard said that people who sign up for the trip are mostly first-time skydivers. “A lot of people on the trips are beginners. You come to college and want to experience something you haven’t before,” Shepard said. Allen Kendricks, freshman criminal justice major, said he would like to go on the skydiving trip so he could experience the thrill of jumping out of a plane. “I’d go. I’ve never done it before,” Kendricks said. “People say it’s fun, so I’d like to go.” Ian Anderson, freshman international relations and Spanish major, on the other
hand, said he is not interested in trying death-defying feats. “I don’t think I’d go,” Anderson said. “I’m not an adrenaline junkie. It’s not for me.” Shepard suggests that anyone looking to make friends, especially new students, should go on the outing. “It’s something that automatically makes you friends, something you are sharing with (other people on the trip),” Shepard said. “It’s a bonding experience.”
-Student price: $128 -Faculty price: $144 -Public price: $160 -Trip includes transportation and jump certificate. -Those interested can contact Peak Adventures at: (916) 278-7158.
CLUB CORNER | ENVIRONMENTAL STUDENT ORGANIZATION
Going green a step at a time By katrina tupper ktupper@statehornet.com Students interested in environmental issues and promoting awareness on campus and in the community may want to consider joining the Environmental Student Organization. Ken Sala, senior environmental studies major and treasurer of ESO, said that at the beginning of the year, the members of the club took part in a Coastal Cleanup Day at Lake Berryessa. Jasmine Greer, senior environmental studies major and president of ESO, said that ESO took on just one small section of the lake and picked up 30 large bags
of garbage as well as 17 bags of recyclables. ESO, which has been established on campus for more than 39 years, was very strong back in the ‘80s. Greer, who hopes to have a similar impact this year, said ESO will be channeling its efforts towards a few focused goals. “Right now, we have a big focus on sustainability, like better recycling or compost programs. You see these things on other campuses, but they are really missing here (at Sac State) and that’s a big concern to us,” Greer said. Alex Neiswender, senior
environmental studies major and vice president of ESO, runs ESO meetings at 1:45 p.m. on Mondays in the Buzz in the University Union, and Greer runs meetings at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in Amador Hall, Room 262. Greer said she is passionate about environmental issues because she knows that natural resources do not last indefinitely. “Our generation has inherited a mess of problems from our parents and grandparents. Our water, soil and air are terribly polluted,” Greer said. “Natural resources have been exploited and depleted without any
regard to sustainability or true economic efficiency and our production practices have been carried out without any regard to social welfare and human health.” Neiswender said that in order to tackle the issues Greer mentioned, action must be taken. Therefore, ESO focuses on helping the environment through upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Greer said many events are being planned for this year, including an educational booth for homecoming and planting native trees with the Sacramento Tree Foundation on Oct. 24. Although being green is a
Courtesy of Jasmine Greer
Members of the Environmental Student Organization at Lake Berryessa for Coastal Cleanup Day. trend right now, Greer said that it is not always easy. “For people to actually apply (being green) to their daily lives is still a struggle. It takes a group effort and it takes people putting their heads together,” Greer said.
any closer & you’d be sleeping in class
great location to campus | resor t-style amenities uvsacramento.com 916.383.9591 7767 LA RIVIERA DR
Students interested in joining ESO can contact Jasmine Greer at jgreer.eso@gmail. com.
Wednesday - October 7
Features Section
Therapist uses art to help clients ease pain By vanessa garibaldi vgaribaldi@statehornet.com As an art therapist and Sacramento State alumna, Majica Phillips is healing the Sacramento community through paint, drawings, collages and more. Phillips was on her way to becoming a teacher during her last semester at Sac State as a child development major when she took an introduction to counseling class that introduced her to the idea of a career in art therapy. Although being an art therapist was not her original career plan, Phillips said that art therapy “rang true” as a career for her because it involved a wide range of age levels and a wide range of art styles. In art therapy, Phillips does not require her patients to verbally tell her why they came to therapy, where they are hurting, or what they are struggling with. She believes the clients’ thoughts and struggles are expressed through art forms and she trusts that the art will show what the client needs to work through. Phillips said art therapy is different from other styles of therapy or counseling because Phillips and her clients are able to refer back to the art the client has produced during his or her treatment. Phillips said she is able to show the client how sad, mad, frustrated or angry they were six months or a year ago through the art they created. The colors, words, or drawings show the emotion the client was going through at the time. This allows the client to see his or her progress. Phillips will begin a session with a brief discussion and from there, she invites her client to create art. Phillips will decide what medium of art the client will use - whether it is
statehornet.com
B3
Band: Issues to be explored Continued | page B1 anywhere. I was just killing time and killing the pain,” Stevens said. Stevens said that after his transition, he felt more comfortable than he ever thought was possible and that this was when life really started for him. “I can do whatever I want,” Stevens said. “I don’t have to walk around and feel awkward or defensive anymore. Everything is great now.” Stevens said that his transition was not the easiest thing in the world, but it was necessary for him. Stevens said that because of voice alterations due to hormone intake, Coyote Grace’s music was put on hold for two years until he fully transitioned. Stevens said he was lucky not to encounter too much adversity from his friends and
family throughout the transition. “Honestly, I really underestimated my friends and family. A lot of my friends said they weren’t really surprised (by the transition), which is kind of validating,” Stevens said. Stevens said it took a while longer for his family to come around, mostly because he was the only girl in the family, but eventually his family members accepted the change. Eyen, who notices there have been a lot of physical changes with Stevens, said the obvious changes such as facial hair aren’t shocking to her. “I really had a front row seat to the physical changes and they happened so progressively that I didn’t notice as much,” Eyen said. Eyen said Stevens is still the same person at his core. “He has the same personality with the same history, same friends and family, same influ-
ences and all of that,” Eyen said. Overall, Stevens said he is stunned with the acceptance and understanding he received before, during, and after his transition. “I was very surprised that there was a community out there at all (for transgendered individuals),” Stevens said. “It seemed impossible to transition and still be a relatively normal member of society, but it is.”
Coyote Grace will be performing at 11 a.m. on Thursday in the Hinde Auditorium in the University Union. There will be a transgender workshop following the concert.
Chase Mason State Hornet
Sacramento State alumna Majica Phillips in her art therapy studio on Capitol Boulevard in Downtown. crayons, paint, pencils, or collage material, after determining what stage the client is at in his or her treatment. Jeff and Kimberley, a husband and wife who chose only to share their first name because of privacy issues, have been clients of Phillips for more than six months. During a therapy session with Phillips, Jeff and Kimberley said they were working on an art piece together and similar patterns from their relationship at home came up, such as sharing. After the patient has created his or her artwork, the patient pins the art on the wall. Phillips
and the patient will then discuss what they see together. Phillips said she notices often that the art allows the person to get their emotions out of their body and onto the paper. She said the patient has more clarity and understanding of the issue at hand when they use art. Cheryl, a client of Phillips who requested only her first name be used, said that Phillips has taught her that she has the inner strength to face challenges. “Majica has shown me to look at the possibilities in my life,” Cheryl said.
Courtesy of Trevor McKee
Ingrid Eyen and Joe Stevens will perform at Sac State for the first time on Thursday.
B4 Sports Updates HORNET FOOTBALL
THESTATEHORNET
Sports
www . statehornet . c o m
O ctober 7, Wednesday
|F a l l I ss u e 6 | S a c ra m ento S tate
The mystique of herky
at PORTLAND
STATE OCT. 3
W 31-14 Christian Clarke, junior defensive lineman: “We played well together that game, as a whole team. All phases of the game we’re clicking: special teams, offense and defense. We all fed off each other.”
WOMEN’S SOCCER at CAL
OCT. 4
TIE 1-1 Shea Roberts, sophomore defensive back line:
“We were all super excited coming off of that game because we didn’t just win off a fluke goal, we completely dominated the game. We deserved to win because we all played together as a team.” vs. SAN JOSE
OCT. 4
TIE 1-1 Ashley Rosenbery, senior defensive backline: “I think we pressed really well defensively. Playing defense as a team is one of our strong points. We had a problem communicating, and connecting feet to passes was a little hard. But we definitely picked it up in the second half.”
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL at EASTERN WASHINGTON
OCT. 2
L 3-1 Melissa Melcher, senior setter: “Playing on the road is challenging. It can wear on your confidence sometimes when you’re in a packed house with fans heckling you. We had some chances but need to get better.” at PORTLAND STATE
OCT. 3
L 3-1 Libero Breanne Menees, sophomore defensive specialist: “I thought we played really well at Portland. We didn’t get down. There was a lot of positive energy on the court and the bench, just things didn’t go our way.” Ruben Volta, head coach: “I thought we played better this weekend than we did here against Northern Colorado. I was pleased with our effort. We played at a high level. Those teams just played really well against us.”
MEN’S GOLF PURPLE & RED INVITATIONAL LAYTON, UTAH SEPT. 26 - 28
6th PLACE
CROSS-COUNTRY DOC ADAMS INVITATIONAL at UC DAVIS
OCT. 3
WOMEN’S 1st PLACE MEN’S NOT RECORDED
Above: Herky demonstrates his skills on stilts in Sac State’s home-opener against Eastern Washington on Sept. 26. Upper Right: Herky flexes before the fans at Hornet Stadium in Sac State’s 56-30 loss against Eastern Washington. Bottom Right: Herky struts his stuff around the track at Hornet Stadium. The mascot has been the pride and joy of Sac State since 1947. Herky is older than the Hornet football program. By Ashley O’Con ao’con@statehornet.com Sacramento State students have probably seen the school’s mascot Herky the Hornet at Sac State sporting events, but not many people may realize what the person, or people inside the Herky costume, must go through. The mascot here at Sac State is the backbone of Hornet athletics. Herky can be seen at the majority of Sac State sporting events on campus. With a muscular figure and
an aggressive appearance, Herky has not always looked this way. The mascot has gone through many different makeovers, facelifts and dramatic changes to get the image that Herky now has today. The mascot could be seen on campus beginning on Dec. 5, 1949. Herky the Hornet started out with a completely different look and the costume has changed a lot, but Herky’s colors and overenthusiastic spirit have never changed. The athletic program does not like to talk about where the
name Herky originates from, but the name Herky is short for Hercules. This year there are three students who dress up as Herky at Sac State sporting events. One of the students who dresses up as Herky feels the mascot’s image is now at its full potential. The student said the Herky costume is a strong aggressive image that sends off the spiritual message every mascot should carry. Herky stays active by getting see Herky | page B6
Third-string glory By Britney Rossman brossman@statehornet.com Sacramento State’s senior third-string quarterback Jon Loeliger has had a career that has been one of many changes and transitions. Loeliger is not your typical third-string quarterback. To get a substantial amount of playing time, he did the unthinkable - requested to play for the special teams squad. Loeliger’s coaches and teammates voted for him as a team captain this season for his dedication to the team. Last season, Loeliger began the year as a safety and was then moved back to quarterback. Loeliger described his passion for football as second nature from his family. “My passion for football basically just comes from growing up. My older brother and I would always play football in the streets for hours,” he said. “My whole family could be caught watching football on
TV all the time. I just learned to love it because my dad and brother did.” Head coach Marshall Sperbeck said he believes that the team captain title is suitable for a player of Loeliger’s caliber.
“Jon is a very good athlete - he’s a very hard-working competitor. As far as being a team captain, it was his teammate’s decision. The players see Loeliger| page B6
Marcy Hendricks State Hornet
Jon Loeliger (14) played against Eastern Washington at Sac State’s first home game of the season on Sept. 26.
Photos by Robyn Barnes State Hornet
Alums boost school spirit By Dustin Nosler dnosler@statehornet.com There are many groups and organizations that do whatever it takes to make sure their alma mater’s athletic program is in top shape. Sacramento State students have the Stinger Athletic Association to thank for making sure Hornet athletics is performing at the highest level. The association’s main goal is to keep Sac State relevant to the alumni. The Stinger Athletic Association, formerly known as the Hornet Club, is the fundraising arm for the athletic department. It was founded in the ‘80s, when it was known as the Stinger Foundation. The Stingers currently have more than 300 members. Mark Livingston is the associate athletic director for development and executive director of the Stinger Athletic Association. Livingston said the fundraising is primarily for athletic scholarships. “To be a Division I program, scholarships are very important,” he said. “To be able to offer those to student-athletes to try to get the best student-
athletes we can.” Last year, the Stinger Athletic Association raised $560,000 overall and another $376,000 via corporate sponsorships. The association raised money through four events throughout the year last year- a golf tournament that raised $43,000, a crab feed that raised $22,000, a winetasting event that raised $23,000 and a main funds drive. Like the events for homecoming, membership in the Stinger Athletic Association is open to anyone. “The only requirement (to join) is if you want to support Sac State athletics,” Livingston said. Livingston said most people are a part of the association on a yearly basis, with donations as high as $5,000-plus. The association is divided into six divisions; the Captains Club, Century Club, Coaches Club, Varsity Club, Directors Club and Emerald Club. The more a booster can donate yearly determines what division he or she belongs to. “We have that ability,” he said. “But we try to focus on the (association) so you’re supporting all 20 of our programs instead see Stinger | page B5
Wednesday - October 7
Sports Section
statehornet.com
B5
Freshmen play prominent role for Hornets Janelle Currey, Freshman Outside Hitter, Women’s Volleyball After enduring one of its worst seasons in recent memory, the Sac State volleyball team feels it is getting back to its winning ways, thanks in part to the surprise play of freshman starter Janelle Currey. Playing the position of outside hitter for the Hornets, Currey has established herself as a play maker and a significant contributor offensively
Samantha Poulin State Hornet
and defensively. Coach Ruben Volta said Currey is a smart player. “She knows the game well and doesn’t make a lot of errors. She forces the other team’s defense to make plays,” he said. She currently ranks in the top eight in the Big Sky Conference in kills with 233, points with 270.5 and digs with 238. Her emergence, combined with the strong play of senior outside hitter and team leader Desiree Hoyum, provided the Hornets with a balanced attack. As far as Currey is concerned though, stats do not matter. “I want to win a Big Sky Championship. If that means I have one kill or 20, it doesn’t matter. I just want to do my part in the team’s success,” she said. Volta said the future is bright for and the Hornets as a return to Big Sky dominance could be coming sooner than expected.
Max Alvarez, Freshman Forward, Men’s Soccer The men’s soccer team, which opened the season this year with a 3-0-1 start, owes much of that success to the play of Alvarez. He burst onto the scene this year with five goals in the first four games. Currently leading the Hornets in shots with 20 and goals with seven, Alvarez said he has adjusted well to the advanced level of play. Proud of his early season success, the soft-spoken Alvarez is by no means content. Always looking to improve on some aspect of his game, Alvarez said: “I’ve been able to take advantage of my opportunities but I see a lot more things I think I should be able to do for the team to win.” Coach Michael Linenberger, who has followed Alvarez’s youth career for many years, said he has surpassed all the coaches’ expectations. “We knew he was an incredible goal scorer as a youth player and thought he could contribute this year but the jump to college takes a while
Hanan Salem State Hornet
sometimes. Max has adjusted quickly and has become our go-to guy,” he said. Already listed as a marked man by opposing defenses, this fabulous freshman has made an immediate impact on the field and he is only just beginning to realize his full-potential. Alvarez looks to lead the Hornets to victory the rest of the season. Linenberger hopes Alvarez can lift Sac State into the playoffs. Alvarez said he wants to keep scoring goals.
Sam McCowan, Freshman Running Back, Football Despite a 1-3 start for the Hornets to start the season, head coach Marshall Sperbeck said McCowan has emerged as bright spot on the team and a big play threat every time he gets the ball. McCowan said that he spent a lot of time in the off-season preparing for this year’s transition to the intensity of college football. He said his work ethic is extremely important to him in order to be successful. “I’m young so the coaches don’t really know everything I can do yet. I have to work harder to prove myself and show them what I got,” he said. McCowan said taking advantage of playing time has been a key element to his success so far this season. He leads the team with three rushing touchdowns and he is averaging 30.6 yards per kickoff return. In the home opener against Eastern Washington, McCowan returned a kickoff for 75 yards which led to a touchdown pass from
Jason Smith to wide receiver Brandyn Reed two plays later. Sperbeck said it is hard to find enough minutes for everybody to play in a game but McCowan has shown that he can be a special player. “He runs hard and has the ability to make big plays for us,” Sperbeck said.
Marcy Hendricks State Hornet Reporting by Stamati Shoriates
Stinger: Boosters prepare for festive Homecoming week Continued | page B4 of just one.” Livingston said the Stinger Athletic Association’s participation during homecoming is the same as every home game at Hornet Stadium, but bigger. “We have our SAA barbecue,” he said, “we have our tailgate area and then we’re working with the Alumni Association to provide bounce houses for kids. We’re really trying to make it a family-fun area.”
Livingston said homecoming is such a big event for the association because it brings people back to the university. Homecoming is not the same as it is on a high school campus. There is no dance associated with college homecoming. However, there are a lot of festivities involved with the day - and the days leading up to it. Sac State’s homecoming game is Saturday. The football team hosts Idaho State, a Big Sky Conference rival, at 2:05 p.m.
Jennifer Barber, director of alumni relations, said homecoming is another way to see the campus and is often used as a preview day for prospective students. “We like to see alumni come back to campus; we like to see them participate in events; we like to see them mentor current students,” she said. “But we also want to be sharing news and information about Sac State to prospective students - the great things that are happening with
our students (and faculty).” Barber said Sac State’s success makes its alumni look better. “The more the university accomplishes, the more the equity of their degree increases,” she said. “As Sac State gets better, there’s more credibility with walking into a job interview and saying, ‘I’m a Sac State alum.’” Barber said the Sac State Alumni Association would also have many entertaining things to do at the game.
“We’ll have a variety of presentations,” Barber said. “Mark S. Allen of CW 31’s ‘Good Day Sacramento,’ who is a Sac State alum, is emceeing this whole two-and-a-half hour time period on the stage. We have a band and a martial arts demonstration.” The festivities are scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. Anyone can participate. “It’s not just about football, it’s about community,” said Linda Canfield Scott, alumni services
coordinator. Peak Adventures, basketball and the Student Nurses Chapter are attending the event. “I had a former football player who played here in the ‘80s come back last week and he was blown away by how many changes had happened on campus,” Livingston said. “It’s just important to pull people (back) who had gone to Sac State who haven’t been on campus in years - to try to get them re-engaged with the campus.”
B6
Wednesday - October 7
Sports Section
statehornet.com
Herky: Keeping the identity Loeliger: Quarterback does secret is hard work but fun whatever team asks of him Continued | page B4
involved with as many events as possible. He attends most sporting events on campus, pep rallies and advertises when available. Herky is also a student and must deal with all the rigors of being a college student on top of being the Hornets’ mascot. Adam Primas, Herky’s coordinator for the Green Sting, said that being Herky is more than just dressing up in a hornet costume for a couple hours. “It’s great because it gets to represent both athletics and the school,” he said. “It’s fun to have Hornet football players, women’s basketball players and all the teams respect you and know that you are supporting them at each game.” With a student body of roughly 28,000, it would seem that someone must know who the person is inside the Herky costume with its beedy eyes and oversized antennas. Even though it can get difficult at times to not reveal Herky’s identity, Herky and his handlers do a great job of keeping the mascot’s identity hidden. One of the students who dresses up as Herky said it is difficult at times to keep the identity a secret. “It’s really hard sometimes to keep it a secret,” Herky said.
“Sometimes I just want to tell someone the truth just to impress them, but for the most part I’ve done a pretty good job of keeping it a secret so far.” Herky said when off the field, it is essential to be very alert and cautious to other people invading the mascot’s privacy. Herky keeps a low profile and does not like taking a chance to jeopardize revealing the mascot’s identity. Fall and winter are the busiest times of the year for Herky because there are multiple sports going on at once. The mascot goes from week to week basically “on-call” with its mascot job duties. Herky said with being the mascot, one never really knows what to expect. Herky said being the school’s mascot is fun but it is also a very time-consuming job and takes a lot of dedication. “There is a lot of time commitment. Depending on a
weekly basis it varies how much time is put in every week,” Herky said. “I attend some cheer practices or a dance practice and sponsored events, but I also spend time practicing routines and such on my own.” Herky has done a lot of work in the community and he has worked with the Sacramento River Cats’ mascot, Dinger. One of the students who dresses up as Herky is not really sure about what the future holds, but the student has considered trying out for a mascot position with a professional sports team. Even though school is their first priority, they continue to keep an open mind about playing as a mascot somewhere else if any doors would open up for them. “I thought about it. If it came up, I might look into it but it’s not my main goal. It would be pretty cool if it ended up happening though,” said one of the students who dresses as Herky.
Continued | page B4 voted him due to his leadership and dedication to the game,” Sperbeck said. “He’s willing to play football wherever he’s needed. I just think the guys realized his all around qualities and respect him for it.” Senior defensive back Dorian Brown said that a player such as Loeliger is helpful because his hard work and enthusiasm for football is motivating. “Jon is a player that just loves football. A lot of the guys respect him for what he does and what a good role model he is to the whole team,” Brown said. “He’s just a perfect example of what coaches look for in an athlete - willing to play wherever he’s needed to contribute.” Brown said he feels the ball is in good hands if Loeliger has to contribute at quarterback. “He can handle that situation very well. He just looks for any way to play so that he can help the team. He’s an all-around
tough person who, whether is playing as quarterback or on special teams, he’s going to give 100 percent,” Brown said. Sophomore defensive back Deionte Gordon said that it is beneficial to have a teammate like Loeliger who always has a positive attitude. “He is a team player. He’s willing to do whatever he can - whether defense, offense or special teams, he just wants to get out there and help the team however he can,” Gordon said. “He is a good leader with a great attitude - he’s never negative. I think it’s great that Jon is a team captain because he has the ability to bring the team up.” Loeliger said his love for football is what keeps him going. “I just wanted to play. I’ve played as a quarterback my whole life, but I was prepared to take any opportunity to get on the field,” he said. “It just comes down to wanting to do
anything that could help the team.” Loeliger played safety, quarterback and special teams specialist; he is the placeholder on kicks. “The toughest thing for me, when transitioning from position to position was probably the mental aspect. Physically, I was there and able to perform but mentally it took a minute,” he said. “As a safety you’re reacting to certain situations, and as a quarterback you’re proactive and making things happen - it’s a very different mental transition.” Defensive backs/special teams coach Anthony Parker praised Loeliger for what he means to the team.