WHAT’S INSIDE
SPORTS 1–2
NEWS 4–5
OPINION 3
CULTURE 7–8 I SSU E
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The Independent Student Voice of Boise State Since 1933
Volume 23
First Issue
F R E E October 11, 2010
Nursing student awarded scholarship
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Do motorcyclists need helmets?
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Reference guide to Islamic holidays
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BSU blows Toledo apart Broncos make fireworks of Rockets, force 5 turnovers Kirk Bell
Managing Editor
T
he No. 4 Boise State Broncos (5-0, 1-0 Western Athletic Conference) made easy work of Toledo (3-3, 2-0 Mid-American Conference) Saturday night at Bronco Stadium, downing the Rockets 57-14. The victory put BSU atop the nation’s longest winning streak, 19, after No. 1 Alabama lost to No. 19 South Carolina earlier in the day. By using offensive efficiency, turnovers and a little trickery, the Broncos made short work of the Rockets, leading Toledo 36-7 before halftime. “The key to this game was the turnovers because if we didn’t have those turnovers in the first half it would’ve been a much different game,” BSU head coach Chris Petersen said. “It was interesting at halftime, there was a little bit of a frustration feeling. We’d had a nice drive to give us some more breathing room right before we went in, but they were moving the ball fairly effectively. They were getting good field position because of our special teams. The turnovers were the key in terms of letting us get some points. That helped, but it was very awkward in terms of how it felt I thought.” The Broncos forced five turnovers, two interceptions and three fumbles, to create scoring opportunities that led the way to a BSU victory. Ju-
Mitch Esplin/THE ARBITER
The Boise State Broncos used a fast offensive start thanks to the arm of junior quarterback Kellen Moore to put the Toledo Rockets away early. nior defensive end Shea McClellin recorded his second career interception, running it back 36 yards for a touchdown. “The coaches are always harping on the same thing, getting turnovers and being physical,” McClellin said. “We want to be that dominating defense and anytime a defense can get five turnovers, it’s a great day.” Senior running back Jeremy Avery made his triumphant
Boise State keeps focus local Broncos turn blind eye to 'Bama loss Trent Lootens Sports Editor
Boise State head coach Chris Petersen may not want to talk about it now, but Alabama’s loss to South Carolina will effect his team come season’s end. The entire college football landscape was changed Saturday by an earthquake that came from the devastating tremor delivered by South Carolina in its 35-21 defeat of Alabama. The Gamecocks pulled out the last foundational block of Jenga, that was the Crimson Tide, and allowed the remaining blocks -- the rest of college football’s undefeated teams -- to plummet with no decisive frontrunner. What does it mean for the Broncos? “That doesn’t mean anything. That probably means were going to move down five spots,” Petersen said after BSU defeated Toledo 57-14 Saturday. “We’ve just got to keep playing and talk about it in December.” But it does mean something for the Broncos, and it could be something really
good. Wait, we almost forgot, Petersen is right. This is BSU, the team that moves down in the polls after it wins 59-0. Ohio State is the new No. 1. There’s no way anybody can argue that after its 3810 drubbing of Indiana. Oregon will stay at No. 2 just on principal alone. The voters and coaches don’t want to admit they made a mistake when they put Oregon in front of BSU last week after watching the Ducks’ lackluster 4323 win against a miserable Washington State team this week. Remember, Oregon comes from the Pac-10, a BCS conference. It’s allowed to have a poor showing and not be punished for it because it plays a harder strength of schedule down the road. Now, this is all really starting to make sense. Don’t forget about Nebraska, the team that hasn’t beat any ranked teams this year. It deserves to jump BSU too, right? Either way, Petersen feels the Alabama loss is good for college football in
return after starting the season as the Broncos’ No. 3 running back. Avery was utilized effectively in the red zone in the wildcat formation, rushing for three touchdowns on six carries in the first half. He finished the game with seven carries, averaging six yards per carry and reigning in a 26-yard reception. “When you’re in the red zone, you want to score…,” Avery said. “All of us want to get
general, but really doesn’t care how it influences others’ view the Broncos in the rankings. “It’s all stuff that we don’t want to pay attention to, but I think everybody else loves it. In terms of Boise State, I don’t really have an opinion. We’ll have an opinion way down the road when it’s all said and done,” Petersen said. “I just really believe that and mean that. We just have so much more football to play and we got a long way to go. We’re going to have some really tough games. I can feel them coming.” Petersen, who gets to fill out a ballot in the USA Today Coaches’ Poll every week, still isn’t sure where to put his team when he wakes up Sunday morning. In fact, he makes it sound like it’s something he dislikes doing, even though his vote could help BSU rise in the polls. When asked after BSU’s blowout win against the Rockets if he had any idea who he’ll chose as the No. 1 team in his ballot Petersen said, “Nope, I figure that out tomorrow.” Any chance it could be Boise State, Pete? “No. I don’t think so,” he said. That pretty much sums up where BSU’s mindset is concerning the rankings at this point.
in the red zone and take it in.” “He knows what he’s doing,” junior quarterback Kellen Moore added. “He has done this for a while. Maybe early on he wasn’t getting the touches, but there’s long seasons and there will be different guys that will need to step up and Jeremy doing that right now.” The Broncos have struggled on special teams all season, a place where they previously have thrived. BSU allowed
two long kickoff returns in the first half; a 41-yard return by sophomore wide receiver Eric Page and a 31-yard return by junior linebacker Isaiah Ballard. The long return by Page set the Rockets up for a 58yard march to their lone first half score. BSU entrusted most of the second half to their second and third teamers to close out the game. The Broncos scored 21 third-quarter points; Mc-
Clellin’s touchdown return, a 33 yard pass from Moore to junior wide receiver Tyler Shoemaker and a seven-play rushing attack handled by sophomore running back Matt Kaiserman capped by a 1-yard touchdown rush. BSU goes on the road this week to face WAC opponent San Jose State. The Broncos return the following week to play a Tuesday night game (Oct. 26).
Avery right at home in No. 2 spot Bronco running back scores three touchdowns Joey McCullough Sports Producer
Two weeks ago, Boise State football suffered its first loss of the season when junior running back D.J. Harper tore his anterior curciate ligament, knocking him out for the rest of the season; the same knee that Harper blew out last season. BSU’s Doug Martin has been a household name all season, but with the injury to Harper, it made room for senior Jeremy Avery to get back in the mix. Avery ran the ball eight times last week against New Mexico State for 69 yards and touchdown. Saturday, Avery churned out a better performance against the Toledo Rockets. Avery’s output was key for the Broncos. He rushed for only 42 yards, but reached the end zone on three separate occasions. “(W)hen you get into the red zone you want to score,” Avery said. “Every chance that you have it is all out (because) everybody wants to
Robby Milo/THE ARBITER
Senior running back Jeremy Avery gives the Broncos a dual-threat option in the backfield next to Martin. get into the end zone.” “He’s a really good player,” head coach Chris Petersen said. “He’s fast, he’s shifty. The first touchdown he scored wasn’t blocked very clean. He just put a little move on and outran everybody.” Avery is no stranger to rushing the ball. Having been
a primary back in the past, Avery reminded us all what he is capable of. “(Avery) knows what he’s doing,” junior quarterback Kellen Moore said. “He has done this for a while.” The Broncos enjoy seeing
See AVERY I page 2
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SCPORTS ULTURE
October 11, 2010
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Avery [from page 1]
Robby Milo/THE ARBITER
Head coach Shawn Garus instructs his players Saturday against Utah State.
Avery play and have full confidence in him. When asked what the team was telling him throughout the game Avery said, “Keep it up. Just keep running hard and don’t stop and just keep going. It’s good to have that motivation in you and you want to keep it up.” Avery’s efforts helped the Broncos to a 57-14 victory, but Avery wasn’t alone in getting rushing attempts. Martin got his usual carries, but so did Matt Kaiserman, Jarvis Hodge and Drew Wright, who all put in work too. “It’s good to get (Kaiserman) back in the mix and get him into a little bit of a
rhythm,” Petersen said. “I think those four guys, with Drew Wright, they’re all very different, but I think they’re all good players.” “(Kaiserman) is a great running back who gets positive yards every play,” Moore said. When asked if those other backs will get to see more opportunities to run the ball Petersen said, “I hope they do, but I think the one thing we need to do is we feel like we need to get a couple of guys into a rhythm and not water it down too much.” The Broncos depth at running back was evident against Toledo with backs
like Kaiserman, Hodge and Wright playing behind Martin and Avery. “I’ve always been so pleased with our running backs. They’ve shared the ball and nobody mopes around and nobody has poor body language,” Petersen said. The strength of the running back corps for BSU is a hidden gem, but look to see Martin and Avery carry the load. Also look for Avery to ignite the Bronco offense the rest of the season. “It’s just a long season and everybody’s going to have a piece of this pie,” Petersen said. “Tonight it was his time to have a bigger piece.”
Bronco volleyball grinds out win vs. Utah State Boise State perseveres in five games Joey McCullough Sports Producer
The Boise State volleyball team earned a much needed victory Saturday afternoon against Western Athletic Conference opponent Utah State. The Broncos were fresh off a loss to the Nevada Wolf Pack on Thursday and were in big need of a confidence boost with the Aggies on their home court. Game one was back and forth, with 16 ties and seven different lead changes keeping the competition tight. The Aggies broke away late in the game one to win 26-24. Game two was not much different. Like the Aggies, the Broncos broke away late to win 25-21. Game three was all BSU winning 25-17. Game four was another stunner with the Aggies coming out on top 25-21. In between games four and five, BSU head coach Shawn Garus looked unhappy with his team’s performance. “I thought we made some hesitation plays that cost us,” Garus said. “There were some balls in seams and
there was some miscommunication. I’m okay if we make errors, but I want to make aggressive errors.” The Broncos were well in control throughout the fifth game. With a lot of energy from the audience in Bronco Gym, BSU rolled to a 15-7 victory, taking the match and control of the game. The win puts the Broncos at 16-5 overall and 3-3 in WAC play this season. The win over the Aggies is big for the Broncos, getting them a much need conference win. “This is a huge WAC win coming off this weekend,” senior Alisha Young said. “They’re a great team and they have some great wins, and especially after our loss to Nevada, this is a huge turnaround to come back and beat a great team.” “I think it’s a great win for us to get back on track. (It’s) a good one to take on a off day and then get focused next week,” Garus said. Aided with energy created from the audience of both Aggie and Bronco fans, the intense environment matched the play on
the court. Despite the chaos, coach Garus remained calm and collected. “I think our team plays with a ton of energy, so they don’t need me to get them a ton of energy,” Garus said. “They need me to keep them focused and try to give them some insight that will keep them focused.” BSU sophomore Cailin Fellows said the Broncos are able to handle the intense play because in practice the atmosphere is tough and they keep it back and forth so that in games like Saturday’s they are prepared. The high level of play will only continue for the Broncos as they head to Las Cruces, N.M. to face the other Aggies of the WAC. NMSU is 4-1 in the WAC and currently sits second behind Hawaii in the conference standings. Garus added, “(The win) is super important because we head on the road next week for a match against New Mexico State and Louisiana Tech.” The Broncos next home match is against Saturday, Oct. 23 against the first-place Hawai'i Warriors.
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Opinion
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October 11, 2010
Christine Ritchie Journalist
In warm-weather times of year, there is an increase in the number of motorcycles and motorized scooters on the road. These are convenient and fun ways to get around Boise. Unfortunately, they are also dangerous. Many drivers in Boise will likely recall seeing billboards reminding them to look twice for motorcyclists. Crashes involving cyclists are common, and can be very serious. In 2009, approximately 4,762 motorcyclists were involved in fatal crashes, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Obviously, motorcycles are susceptible to much more damage when colliding with cars. Given the near 5,000 fatal crashes in 2009, it makes a ton of sense for Idaho to not require riders of motorcycles and scooters to wear a helmet. Not really. The risk of a motorcyclist's brains
getting splattered across the road should be enough to inspire riders to wear a helmet. It’s extremely likely that a driver will miss an approaching motorcyclist and turn out into a road, sending the cyclist flying onto the pavement. I cannot fathom why anyone would take the added risk of not wearing a helmet. According to Idaho Statute 49666, anyone over the age of 18 is not required to wear a helmet. This is preposterous. If it is a matter of freedoms, then the state of Idaho is giving Idaho residents the freedom to die needlessly. If such rights can be restricted enough to require the use of seat belts, then they can be restricted enough to require the use of a helmet. Sophomore Bryan Talbot, marketing major, has been riding his Ninja motorcycle for three years. He wears a helmet most of the time. "The only time I don't wear it is when my girlfriend is on the bike," he said. "I ask if [passengers] would
like to wear a helmet, but they usually refuse." Just because it looks awesome to speed through the town with hair flowing through the wind, doesn't mean it's smart to dismiss the helmet. In fact, there are people who will find you stupid for neglecting to protect yourself. The Idaho STAR Program definitely and rightfully encourages bikers to wear not only helmets, but other very important protective gear, according to the director of the program, Stacey Axmaker. "No one ever asks about mandatory jackets [and other protective gear]," he said. "People tend to overestimate and underestimate the benefits of helmets." Axmaker and the other instructors of the STAR program highly encourage safety and advise motorcyclists to choose wisely. Riding motorcycles definitely requires great alertness, both on the part of the biker and those who drive cars. Unfortunately, most drivers tend to push motorcyclists out of their
minds, Axmaker said. Drivers look for other cars, not motorcycles. "[We stress] having the mental and physical skills to stay out of situations," said Axmaker. Essentially, both awareness of the surroundings and wearing protective gear are the best ways to prevent crashes. Yet time and time again, I see bikers riding sans helmet, wearing a t-shirt and flipflops. Apparently, these bikers have a superhero complex. Helmets and other protective gear should be required in Idaho law. If someone is caught without a seat belt in a car, they are slapped with a too-small $10 fine. This is for the safety of the motorists. Why there is an inconsistency between the two modes of transportation is beyond me. It is unfortunate that Idaho values motorcylists' right to feel the wind in their hair and not their safety. But then again, maybe there is something tasty and appealing about the taste of bugs and asphalt that I just don't understand.
Brendan Healy/THE ARBITER
Egocentric questions, honest answers Things people don't consider when debating immigration Rebecca De León Culture Editor
This article is for everyone who spits on immigrants in the debate about what to do about shutting our borders. There are more than 12 million illegal immigrants in the United States today according to the Department of Homeland Security. The vast majority of them are from Mexico. A big question thrown around in the immigration debate is: Why don’t they just come here legally? To which I respond with another question: If it were that easy, don’t you think they’d rather come here legally? The United States issues 55,000 visas a year. That includes work visas, student visas and visitors' visas. Of those visas, only 5,000 are allotted to Mexico, which has a population of more than 111 million. So if there aren't any visas, why don't Mexicans just stay in Mexico? Last year alone, almost 8,000 murders went unsolved in Mexico, but were determined to have stemmed from the war on drugs, according to an article by the Latin American Herald Tribune. Most of them are
near the border because cartels often kill any Mexican citizen who tries to cross the border without carrying drugs. A third question arises: Instead of letting Mexican citizens come into our country as refugees to cook our tacos and scrub our toilets, why don’t we just send money to Mexico’s government to de-corrupt the police force, therefore encouraging Mexican citizens to stay on their side of the river? Because it doesn’t work. Reuters. com wrote an investigative article that revealed drug cartels in Mexico make an estimated $40 billion in profit every year. The Office of National Drug Control Policy revealed the U.S. government has spent approximately $19 billion a year to try to clean up the Mexican government and police force. All this did was make the cartels more powerful and more pissed off. The cartels in Mexico have more money than the American government can afford to spend trying to combat them. Now, as a way of sending a message to America to stop sticking our noses into other countries’ affairs (not like we’re notorious for doing that or anything), the drug cartels are inventing more
perverse ways of killing people in Mexico. Cases are popping up wherein politicians and journalists in Mexico who have spoken out against drug cartels are not just found dead, but their faces ripped off and sewn onto soccer balls, decapitated with their heads placed on the top of flag poles, and in one politician’s case, his wife and two young sons were tortured in front of him and killed before cartel members tortured him for a week then finally put him out of his misery. And we have made them more powerful. We sent troops and money to Mexico to train their police and military so they would be better equipped to defeat cartel infantry. However, once soldiers become trained, cartel members swoop in and either kidnap family members or simply offer to quadruple the soldier’s salary to switch sides, which they eventually do. Possessing missiles and rockets purchased from international traders, coupled with American-trained Mexican soldiers just fuels the violence in their country. This is evident with the relatively recent growth of Los Zetas, the most heavily-armed and well-trained cartel in Mexico. Although we have pure intentions,
we are crippling innocent Mexicans even more. They risk their lives and their families' lives to try and gain sanctuary in the United States, but instead are treated like the criminals they are trying to escape from. They live in fear and corruption in Mexico but don’t have the monetary means or educational benefits to get a coveted visitor’s visa or student visa. As if there were enough to go around if they somehow found a way to score one. The immigration law in Arizona goes beyond ignorantly discriminating against “brown-looking” people. It fuels the intense burden innocent Mexican citizens already bear and, in my opinion, encourages racism to the point where we inhumanely deny people who are obviously suffering violent turmoil any kind of asylum. People such as myself, most Boise State students, Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter, Raul Labrador and countless others who also just happened to be lucky enough to be born in an American hospital, need to look past skin color and help a neighbor. Or maybe you could just sit on your hands now and apologize to them for not doing the Christian thing when you see them in "heaven."
E ditorial S taff E ditor - in -C hief Bob Beers
M anaging E ditor Kirk Bell
M edia M anager Zach Ganschow
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Trent Lootens Editor Producer Joey McCullough
O pinion
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Andrew Ford Mitch Esplin
Haley Robinson Jessica Swider
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Motorcyclists should be required to wear helmets
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Reckless riding
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Parenting Jana Hoffman Columnist
Tweet that inspired this week's column: truthdigger Ohio school the site
of four bullying related suicides http://goo. gl/fv9G Though parents have every right to hold schools accountable when children are mistreated on their watch, the education system is not the only problem. Children who abuse their peers have issues well before they make their way into the classroom. Parents have got to be engaged in their children’s lives. From the day a child is born, parents have two little eyes following their every move, just waiting to see what their they will do next. Truly, they learn more from watching what adults do than listening to the endless “blah blah blah” that pours out of their guardians’ mouths. Parents must exhibit what it means to be a good neighbor -- someone who values kindness and respect of other human beings above all else. Long gone are the days of the nightly family dinner with mom and dad. Nowadays mom and dad live in separate houses, and each house usually has a different set of rules. Divorced parents may disagree on pretty much everything under the sun, but whenever possible, they should do whatever it takes to work together when it comes to childrearing. Communication is key. Parents should ask open-ended questions about their children’s lives. If families touch base on a regular basis, children will be more likely to share things that they might try to hide otherwise. If a child knows he or she can talk with his or her parents about the “normal” day-to-day stuff, it won’t be as uncomfortable to discuss a problem that comes up. If a child is having a difficult time and isn’t talking about it, an engaged parent will be much more likely to take notice. Parents have got to get to know their kids. Parents should take an active role in their children’s education. More than just reviewing a child’s report card, it is wise to establish a rapport with his or her teachers. If parents and teachers have open communication, educators will be more likely to call home if changes in behavior occur -- even subtle ones. Collaborative effort can help build a safety net that otherwise would not exist. In a culture where it takes two working parents to pay the bills, it’s far too easy for parents to turn off the radar when their kids are at school. Parents often assume that all is well unless a teacher calls to say otherwise. That's the same as asking “if a tree falls in the forest but no one is around to hear it crash…” Kids have problems at school, even if parents aren’t there to witness them. They have social networks and connections and realities that keep them up at night. Children's struggles might appear trivial on the surface, but as seen in recent news, those struggles can lead to the darkest of places. Parents need to refocus. It’s time to prioritize the experience of children outside of the home. It's time for parents to ask questions that dig deeper. Parents must engage in their children’s lives. It’s time to wake up. Follow Jana on Twitter and she will follow you back!
B usiness J ournalists Christine Ritchie, Edina Macic, Eva Hart, Gabbi Brandini, Gabriel Iacoboni, Jana Hoffman, Jessica Copeland, Joe Sook, Justin Dalme, Karey Hoke, Lance Moore, Lauren Hooker, Marshell Martinez, Nikki Hanson, Sam Royce, Sherika Martinez, Stephanie Sheibe, Tony Madonna, Tony Rogers, Wyatt Martin,
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News
October 11, 2010
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Future nurse pockets national full-ride scholarship stephanie scheibe Journalist
It was more than luck that allowed Jennifer Jaramillo, a 21-year-old senior at Boise State, a place in the highly competitive nursing program. Jaramillo was congratulated as one of 458 recipients for the U.S. government nursing scholarship provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration Aug. 25. The scholarship will cover her tuition, fees, books and provide a monthly stipend of $1,326 until she graduates in December 2012. The stipend is designed to cover housing, food and other expenses incurred until graduation. In return for the scholarship, she'll work for two years at a facility with a critical shortage of nurses. “My parents can’t just write a check for me to go to school, a lot of parents can’t," Jaramillo said. "So when I got that news I was just like, man, so many
of my worries are taken away and I can finally concentrate on why I’m here." Jaramillo said if she hadn't received the scholarship, she would have to take out $10,000 in loans each year until graduation. Almost 6,000 students applied for the highly-selective scholarship. Jaramillo quickly filled out the scholarship application after finding out about it just five days before the deadline. “To me, my big thing is I don’t care how poor you are or how rich you are -- everyone deserves the right to a healthy mind and body,” she said. Jaramillo always had a passion for helping people. She grew up with an older sister with disabilities, which allowed her to see first-hand the difference nurses make. It wasn’t until she studied abroad in Costa Rica as a sophomore that Jaramillo realized the impact she could make in the nursing field. "First hand I got to see how
poor the public health system was," she said. Jaramillo has two-and-ahalf more years until graduation, but she is optimistic and excited for what lies ahead. “This is the first time ever that I love studying," Jaramillo said. "I feel like such a nerd saying that, but I found something that I absolutely love and have a passion for.” While working part-time jobs at the Admissions Office and as a resident's assistant, Jaramillo continues to excel in classes and labs she attends each week. Erica Barraza, 21, a fellow nursing major who has known Jaramillo for the past three years, has been a close friend since Jaramillo was accepted into nursing school. "I'm so ecstatic for her," Barraza said. "She has a lot going for her and she has a completely different outlook than anyone else in my classes. I'm definitely jealous, but I'm over the moon excited for her." Already, Jaramillo will start
Mitch Esplin/THE ARBITER
Jennifer Jaramillo was one of 458 recipients of a very competitive nursing scholorship awarded by the U.S government. In exchange for the scholarship she will work at a facility with a critical shortage of nurses for two years after she graduates. working her clinical in a few weeks at Good Samaritan hospital in Boise where she will shadow a nurse and gain experience working with patients. "My favorite thing about the
nursing program is that we get so much hands-on experience right away," Jaramillo said. Last Friday, she had the opportunity to administer flu shots at St. Alphonsus
hospital. In two-and-a-half years Jaramillo's hard work will pay off, but for now at least she'll have one less thing to worry about.
Mitch Esplin/THE ARBITER
ANDREWS LEAVES FOR PORTLAND University provost heads to Oregon university system to become Vice Chancellor Marina Hunley Journalist
After six years of working at Boise State University, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Sona Andrews is leaving at the end of October to work as Vice Chancellor at the Oregon University system in Portland. “I came here because I was looking around the country at Provost positions and I thought that Boise State was impressive,” Andrews said. “Bob Kustra had just come on board and I knew he was going to be doing some unique things for this school.” Andrews came to Boise in August 2004 from the University of Wisconsin to fulfill her title as provost and vice president of academic affairs. She said she wanted to work closely with students and build up the retention rate that was extremely low when she arrived. “I also wanted to help move the research agenda along for the institution and greater strengthen the graduate programs," she said. Andrews' last day as pro-
vost and vice president of academic affairs is Oct. 26. She said it will be challenging to leave such a good team here at Boise State. “Sona has such high integrity and truly cares for the faculty and students, that is what shines through,” Executive Assistant Kelli Rooney said. “Everyone is really going to miss her.” According to Andrews, her biggest accomplishments included reduction of credits to earn a degree. Andrews reduced credits from 128 to 120 to save on the costs of college as well as tighten the course load. The Board of Education approved this new change in June and the effects will take place within the end of the year. Boise State is the only institution in Idaho to do this. Andrews also developed and helped student retention rates and student success by starting programs such as the Finish in Four program and she completed the additions of new doctoral programs. “I am proud of improving the academic quality at Boise
State,” she said. Andrews has improved the quality within the workplace as well. Faculty satisfaction has been higher and flexibility has been improved within the administration. “I will miss the faculty and the students the most,” Andrews said. Her new job at the Oregon University system will oversee seven campuses including Oregon State and the University of Oregon. “The reason I actually took a job at the system level is because I’ve gotten more interested in statewide policies that effect student education,” Andrews said. Andrews said universities can be more successful through a coalition of campuses than a single campus and that the range of institutions are terrific. The state of Idaho does not have a system level within the universities, only a Board of Education. Andrews' position will give her the opportunity to work closely with the state legislator. The Oregon University
Mitch Esplin/THE ARBITER
Academic provost Sona Andrews will be leaving BSU at the end of October to take a position at the Oregon University system in Portland. Andrews spent 6 years at Boise state overseeing academic affairs. system presents a different environment along with new challenges, according to Andrews. “My biggest challenges will be learning the new things about the system that I really do not know yet,” Andrews said. “I must constantly make sure that I am always looking out for the best interest for all of the campuses making sure I do not dilute things down to
the lowest common denominator.” Andrews' new responsibilities will include over sight of academic programs throughout the state, assessment of current programs and system-wide economic development. She will also be making sure that the campuses of Oregon have their strategic plans aligned with the sys-
tem-level plan. “I’ve loved working at Boise State and the administration has always been very forward thinking,” Andrews said. “It has been a collegial environment where faculty and students have worked very closely together. It’s not typical at most university campuses where there is such a close relationship between students and faculty."
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C News ULTURE
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October 11, 2010
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Rescue of Chile's trapped miners draws nearer COPIAPO, Chile - When the drill finally broke through to the miners Saturday, sounds erupted in a symphony of relief: the cheers of family members, the blowing of horns throughout the mine, and the shouts of the men 2,300 feet below. For more than two months, the 33 miners have been trapped in their pitch-dark, claustrophobic refuge after a cave-in at the mine in the Atacama desert in northern Chile. At one point, they were even left for dead. But at 8 a.m., the whine of the rescuers' powerful drill as it punched through the rock to reach a tunnel used by the men signaled that the end of their ordeal could be near.
{STUDENT
VOICES}
Gabrielle brandini Journalist
Later in the day, Mining Minister Laurence Golborne said the process of pulling the trapped men up to the sunlight could begin Wednesday, after the shaft is partially lined with casing to cover the roughly 300 feet closest to the surface and a winch is installed for the rescue pod. Golborne said he foresaw no problems with the unprecedented attempt, but "all rescues carry risks. You can't ever say it doesn't exist in this kind of operation." Despite its forbidding desert mountain setting, the tent village dubbed Camp Hope began to take on a festive air in anticipation of a happy ending. At a balloon-festooned stage where a Mass was celebrated
Saturday night, a clown named Rolli led the miners' children in songs and games. Loved ones who have held a constant vigil and braved the kind of international media swarm that accompanies the election of a pope, expressed happiness mixed with anxiety as the "Plan B" shaft reached the miners. "We're very happy to hear that they reached them, because my father-in-law needs to get out of there as soon as possible," Claudia Jimenez said of trapped miner Omar Regadas, 56. "He is very stressed out, and he is beginning to have eye problems from being in the dark so long." When the escape shaft is complete, the miners are to be
brought to the surface one at a time in a half-ton metal capsule only 26 inches in diameter. The pod will be lowered by cable to a point more than 2,000 feet below the surface at a tunnel adjoining the 600-square-foot "refuge," which had been the miners' lunch room and became their prison. Lifting each miner will take 30 minutes to an hour. After a couple of hours at a makeshift clinic nearby, each will be airlifted by helicopter to the Copiapo Regional Hospital for two days of observation. Adjusting to the feeling of no longer being buried alive will take longer. "Los 33," as they called
themselves, have endured 90-degree heat and 90 percent humidity that made their living quarters a sauna and a hothouse for fungal diseases. They have lived on carefully measured rations lowered through a smaller shaft and a prescribed exercise program. Their medical condition has been closely monitored, as has their mental state; each talked to a government-commissioned psychologist once a day. The drilling to reach the men has been a life-and-death race to bore through tons of rock. The U.S.-made Schramm T130 drill began boring down at the San Jose mine on Sept. 3, one of three drilling operations that have been rushing to free the miners. The fact that
they were alive was discovered Aug. 22, after a terrifying limbo of 17 days in which authorities feared that they were all dead. The miners will have to use explosives to widen the mouth of the rescue shaft where it meets the underground tunnel. Miguel Fortt, an independent mining engineer and consultant who is advising the miners' families, said in an interview Friday that the widening is to ensure that the metal capsule has room to settle on the mine's uneven floor without damaging the tube-like enclosure. He said the miners are accustomed to using explosives and that the widening should not involve any great additional risks.
What would you work on with two months of seperation?
Mariah Jonas
freshman, Psychology, Meridian
"I'd lost the rest of my sanity, but if I had a book I'd read it."
Scott Clark
senior, English/Literature, Kimberly, Idaho "I would finish Mo by Dick."
McKenzie Lyons
freshman, Psychology, Great Falls, Montana
"I'd workout, watch TV, and eat."
Joe Burr
freshman, Biology, Boise
"I'd build a hut on a desert island. I love the tropic zone."
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October 11, 2010
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By N. Black & S. Clement
In preparation for their October 16 show at the Morrison Center, Trey McIntyre Project performed during the Bronco Stadium tailgate.
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Today's birthday (10/11/10). If you obsess over personal issues, you lose power in the social or career arena. Overcome this tendency by detailing work priorities and sharing the list with family members. That way they'll know what's on your plate and understand your moods better. 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 -- Combine romance with work today by including your partner in social events involving clients and co-workers. Use creativity to make it really fun.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) Today is a 6 -- Your many talents take you in different directions now. Follow the traditional wisdom as far as it will take you. Then be willing to branch out.
Gemini (May 21-June 21) Today is a 7 -- Work closely with children and elders to produce better results. You share talents you may not know about. Listen and learn from each other.
Cancer (June 22-July 22) Today is a 6 -- A friend or associate brings a gift to a social event at your place, sparking the interests and talents of all guests. Let others play first.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Today is a 7 -- Work and play interweave in an unusual way today. Time away from a problem often allows a solution to emerge. Other imaginations provide the missing key. Level:
1 2
3 4
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Today is a 6 -- Shop for supplies early in the day, so everyone has what they need to get their work done. Capture imagination with the right tools.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Today is a 7 -- Even if you have to work today, make time for recreational activities. You don't need to push that stone uphill all day. Hand it off to someone.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Today is a 6 -- Allow your thinking to wander now. Blurred focus is just what you need, as you apply artistic talents. Use a light touch and broad stroke.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Today is a 6 -- When issues impinge on your core values, pay attention. You don't want to give up something important to your philosophy. Others suggest solutions.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Today is a 7 -- The more you work within your sphere of comfort, the more you accomplish. Associates see broader possibilities for future consideration.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Today is a 9 -- You need to clarify a philosophical point if the group's to move forward. You may call in an expert to clarify specific details and concerns.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Today is a 9 -- No one knew what you'd say today, not even yourself. The big surprise is that everyone agrees and wonders why they didn't think of it themselves. ___ (c) 2009, Tribune Media Services Inc.
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
Sudoku By M. Mepham
Level: 1 2 3TO4 SATURDAY’S SOLUTION
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10/11/10
The Arbiter • arbiteronline.com Complete the grid so each row, column and
Culture
7
October 11, 2010
Islam
Adil Bentahar Guest writer
It is quite easy to write something about oneself, but to write about a religion is really a hard nut to crack. This article is an attempt to shed light on Islam, my religion. When we talk about Islam, we talk about a religion that was articulated by the Quran and the Prophet of Islam Mohamed (peace be upon him) more than 14 centuries ago. For Muslims around the globe, the Quran stands for the sacred, verbatim word of Allah, the God of Muslims. Actually, the term Islam means submission, and this submission is to the almighty God, and only Him. This word Islam also is derived from silm, meaning peace, hence the greeting in Islam is Assalamu Alaikum, which means peace be on you. People who practice Islam represent a fifth of the world’s population, and they are monotheistic; in other terms, they believe in the existence of one God, Allah, Who is merciful, almighty and incomparable. Furthermore, as Muslims, we believe that the purpose of our lives is to worship God and to follow the guidance and teachings of both Quran and Sunnah, this latter being all the teachings of Prophet Mohamed. I would note here that community service, play, work and anything good to
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Hoi Polloi A religion of tolerance
mankind is part of worship. “Wow, this sounds nice,” some would say. “But what about those duties typical of Islam? And what’s the rationale behind them?” The five pillars represent the backbone of Islam. The 5 pillars of Islam: Shahada The first is called Shahada. Any Muslim must recite under oath the statement: “I testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhamed is His Messenger.” Salah The second is Salah, which is Arabic for prayer. This is the most important pillar, because all the others rest on it. Prayer in Islam is also deemed as regular meetings with the Almighty God (five times a day), through which a Muslim asks for forgiveness and seeks guidance from Allah. Prayer in Islam should not be mechanical, because it should have a very positive impact on the Muslims’ everyday life; this impact could be seen in the person’s behaviors and conduct with oneself, parents, neighbors, colleagues, adults, the elderly, and even with nature and animals. Little kids, those who cannot perform it and the nonmature are exempt from this duty. Muslims gather on Fridays at noon in the Masjid (mosque), and perform the Friday Prayer. Zakat The next ritual, or pillar, of Islam is Zakat "alms-
giving." This falls within the social, noble deeds. Because one’s wealth is considered a trust from Allah, Muslims are highly encouréaged and required to give alms to the orphan, or disadvantaged, or poor people. The portion of one’s money, for example, would depend on how much your income is; I think what matters more is the fact of giving from your own earnings, rather than how much you give. Clearly, this does not apply to the needy. This ritual aims to reinforce solidarity and brotherhood within Islamic societies. Ramadan Fasting, known as Ramadan, which was the focus of my last article, comes next as another mandatory religious duty, but only for those who can. For example, those who are traveling, sick or disabled are exempted from fasting Ramadan. This is clearly stated in our two main references, the Quran and the Sunnah. Hajj The last pillar, Hajj, or "the pilgrimage," is made during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah (one of the 12 Islamic lunar calendar months). In this month, Muslims who can afford it physically and financially, make the pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. In fact, this ritual remains so special, unique and typical of Islam in the sense that it is like a World Congress where all the social dis-
Lost in translation Karey Hoke Columnist
mct campus
Young boys scurry to the mosque to mark the end of Ramadan at the Muslim Community Center of Silver Spring, Md. As the FBI relentlessly pursues one alleged terror plot after another, Muslim Americans find they must grapple with a widespread sense that even the innocent among them are guilty in the eyes of their fellow citizens. Most Muslims practice service, fasting and prayer.
photo courtesy jamal ali
Tourists and Muslims come to see the beauty of the Al-Saleh Mosque in Yemen, which serves as a symbol of Islamic and Yemeni heritage. There are various mosques throughout the world, including the Hassan II Mosque in Morocco, the third largest mosque in the world.
crepancies vanish -- there are no differences between rich or poor -- and where Muslims from all over the world, despite their different cultures, languages, and races, wearing the same attire answer the call of Allah to visit the House of Prophet Mohamed, peace be upon him. It should be mentioned that the Hajj could be made once in a Muslim’s lifetime. ... I would like to close with a few notes from a candid standpoint -- mine. One feels bad at the spread of many stereotypes and prejudice, even lies at times, on Muslims or Islam. As a proud Moroccan Muslim, I was raised in an Islamic country, Morocco. The teachings through school textbooks or family education never encouraged me to hate non-Muslims. On the contrary, the teachings from the Quran and Sunnah highly encourage Muslims to be kind, trustworthy, tolerant and
understanding of other cultures. Moreover, they clearly emphasize first and foremost respect for the other religions. For example, in Morocco it is common to see Christians going to the church; they are respected by Moroccans and at the same time respectful of Muslim traditions and rituals. As a Muslim living in the U.S., I really appreciate the fact that people here are keenly interested in learning more about other cultures and religions, and so am I. I truly enjoyed meeting other Muslim people during the break fast ceremony and while doing the Eid Prayer at BSU, and then celebrating the Eid and rejoicing in the Boise Islamic Center. To me, this is a concrete example of how Americans appreciate and respect other religions, because beyond the difference in religion, there are so many other things that we, Americans and nonAmericans, all share and we should be proud of.
New sorority rocks recruitment week Natalie Craig Journalist
As Boise State students settle into the fall semester, Alpha Gamma Delta, Boise State’s newest sorority, emerges through recruitment week. “It's this great, beautiful statement of what 'Alpha Gam' strives for everyday, and I wanted to be a part of that,” said Johnni Wuest, a junior majoring in mass communication. Alpha Gamma Delta originated at Syracuse University in 1904, with a vision to “Inspire the Woman. Impact the World.” Bringing this sorority to Boise State was a mutual decision between Alpha Gamma Delta International and the Pan-Hellenic Council at Boise State. “Alpha Gamma Delta represents another opportunity and will present another option to women who are interested in being Greek at Boise State,” said Brandie Vanorder, a junior double majoring in Spanish and political science.
Two leadership consultants from Alpha Gamma Delta International came to Boise State to interact with potential members and bring them together with their individual diversities. “The recruitment process was great, and I feel like it represented part of our purpose as an organization; to cultivate acquaintance with many whom I meet," Vanorder said. With 30 new members and the potential to keep growing, Alpha Gam is growing and striving for sisterhood together. Its philanthropy campaign, "Defeat Diabetes One Step At A Time," supports The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation, Diabetes Awareness and Education. They have fundraising events in store for this school year. “I really hope to gain memories and friendships to last a lifetime. I also hope to make an impact on the university that someday I can come back and say I helped get this started,” said Brittney Johnson, a senior majoring in mass communication.
Philanthropy: The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation, Diabetes Awareness and Education
Melanie burke/THE ARBITER
Members of the new Boise State sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, and fraternity Tau Kappa Epsilon tie blue paper napkins into chicken wire in preparation for their homecoming float Saturday.
Flower: A red and a buff rose with green asparagus plumosa fern Colors: Red, buff and green Mascot: Squirrel Jewel: Pearl Founded: May 30, 1904 at Syracuse University in Syracuse, New York Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Local website: wix.com/alpha_gamma_delta/boisestate
BSU is home to several different ethnic groups. We have people here from China, Saudi Arabia, Mexico -- you name it. And naturally, with all these cultures come slang terms and traditions. It’s what makes the U.S. so unique, and it’s why we’re known as the melting pot of the world. However, as with any sort of cultural mixing, things can get lost in translation. For example, certain phrases can take on different meanings. In these cases it’s important for people from the culture to make sure the literal meaning is accurately represented. So, friends, that’s what I’m here to do. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m a loud, proud Hawaiian girl. I never got the pleasure of living on the islands, but parts of my family still live there now, and I spent the summers of my childhood living with my grandparents on Oahu. Naturally, I was exposed to the entirety of the Hawaiian culture. One slang term I heard often was the word “haole.” It originated from the Hawaiian ancestors’ way of greeting each other by rubbing noses and sharing, in essence, the breath of life. Since the foreigners who migrated to the islands were outsiders, they became known as haoles, or, “without breath.” I overheard a person on campus use this term lightly the other day. Don’t get me wrong -- haole can often mean, simply, a mainlander. However, the way I’ve most often heard it used is as an insult. Perhaps it’s just because of my father and the type of people he hung around, but to my knowledge, more often than not it’s meant to be degrading and mocking. While it’s not a huge deal, it’s enough of one that it made me uncomfortable to hear this person tossing it around like it had the same meaning as “dude.” With the blending of cultures also comes fear of what we don’t understand. Sometimes, different cultures can scare us simply because we don’t understand them. Fear should not be an excuse to treat anyone poorly. I have a Saudi Arabian friend who is very dear to me, and recently he told me a story that nearly broke my heart. A few weeks ago, he missed a class. The next time it met, he asked one of his peers to borrow her notes. She refused. When he asked why, she said she wouldn’t be lending him her notes because he’s Saudi Arabian. Is this completely messed up to anyone other than me? Since when does a person’s ethnic group merit this kind of contempt? New cultures can be intimidating. They’re different from ours. However, never is it OK to blatantly insult someone like this girl did to my friend. Differences among groups of people make the world go ‘round and they are a way to bring new experiences to those who are open-minded. Don’t be afraid of what you don’t know -- instead, try expanding your horizons. Maybe you’ll meet a good friend; maybe you’ll meet the love of your life. You’ll never know until you try.
The Arbiter • arbiteronline.com
8
CULTURE
October 11, 2010
Earning his way BSU alum battles struggling economy after graduating college Trent lootens Sports Editor
Troy Wainscott may have come to Boise State University on a whim, but he won’t say it was by accident that he ended up in the City of Trees. The 26-year-old, originating from Fargo, N.D., has Operation Iraqi Freedom to thank for his general business management and human resource management degrees. For it was the United States Army that payed for his fullride scholarship to BSU beginning in 2006. The opportunity to come to a bigger city with a wellrespected business school, a barrage of outdoor activities and a great football team was too much to pass up for the former member of the 142nd Engineer Combat Battalion. “I’d just gotten home from a tour in Iraq and qualified for a military scholarship,” Wainscott said. “It payed for me to go to school pretty much anywhere. I knew I wanted to come out west, so I started researching Boise State and a few other schools. Once I settled on BSU I packed my stuff in the U-Haul and never looked back.” During his time at BSU, Wainscott discovered a new lifestyle that mixed business with pleasure. Several outdoor activities tied in with many hours in the library provided Wainscott the balance he needed to get everything he could out of Boise and BSU. “I enjoyed my years at BSU and I don’t have a really bad thing to say to say about it other than the parking,” Wainscott said. “It was nice going to a college with a great business school, but also offered snowboarding class. Never having to watch the Broncos lose at home was awesome, too.” Wainscott, like most students beginning college in 2006, expected to have a job when his college career was over. That vision took an abrupt turn in 2008 when the American economy took a nosedive and jobs became scarce. With the odds against him, Wainscott pursued the career in business he dreamed of and became an official BSU graduate during the summer of 2010. Now he joins thousands of recent college graduates in the excruciating pursuit of employment. “When I started college in 2006, you were making good money with a business degree and had your pick of jobs,” Wainscott said. “When I graduated, all of a sudden jobs that people with high school diplomas got before were now being taken by competitive people with college degrees. Salary and hours have been reduced but expectations are up.” With his degrees firmly in hand, Wainscott understands the challenge of the economic woes but also can look back on his path to and through Boise State and know he made the right decisions. “It (the Army) set me up for good opportunities and looks good on my resume. It allowed me to have a nontraditional college experience where I never had to worry about not having enough money for school,” Wainscott said. Currently, Wainscott has yet to find a job in Boise area but feels he may have finally broken through the roof by being patient. This week Wainscott will interview for a broker position with Food Sales West as a broker -- it will be his first interview since graduating.
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Benson as a Bronco then, now Kirk Bell
Managing Editor Before watching the stability of the Western Athletic Conference waiver, conference commissioner Karl Benson had dreams of summer. Benson began his trek to athletics as an aspiring baseball player. He started his baseball career at Spokane Falls Community College. The team traveled to Boise for games “I know we left Spokane and it was 32 degrees and snowing,” Benson said. “We got to Boise a couple days later and it was 70 degrees. That made a big first impression.” That following season Benson was a scholarship member of the BSU baseball team headed by legendary Boise State coach Lyle Smith. Benson played one season for Smith before he retired. “That was a good experience. Every time I’m back on campus I like to go over to the tennis complex and try to see where home plate was in relationship to where the tennis complex is today,” Benson said. “There’s talk… Size: about putting down some type Date:10-07-10 of mini home plate Div:09 where the old home plate
09-00249
would have been.” He decided to change his major from business to secondary education with an emphasis on physical education. The decision set Benson on a collision course with destiny. He opted for a job in Tacoma, Wash. after serving as an assistant coach at BSU. He coached for Fort Steilacoom Community College then made a transition to the athletic director position from 1979-84. At 33-years-old Benson decided to return to school at the University of Utah where he spent 1984-86 as a student, assistant baseball coach and administrative assistant. Following graduation he took a job with the NCAA. While with the NCAA, Benson grew familiar with the then-obscure position of conference commissioner. That sparked his interest in heading up a collegiate conference. “When I went to work for the NCAA, never in my wildest dreams did I know there were jobs in conferences,” Benson said. “At that time in the mid 80s conference commission65 Template: ers were pretty much under the radar.” By 1994, Benson took
the job as the Western Athletic Conference commissioner in what was emerging as a 16-team conference after spending time as the commissioner of the Middle American Conference as his entry into the field. “There was a line drawn,” Benson said. “The WAC was in the same category with those other power conferences at the time.” It seems that conference realignment has hit the rewind button for Benson. This year he lost the three most powerful teams in the WAC: Boise State, Fresno State and Nevada. Leaving the conference with six teams, Benson is now faced with the dif-
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Benson has a long history with Boise State, having played baseball for the Broncos in college. ficult decision that brought the Broncos to the national forefront. If nothing else Benson and his staff are the best for the job of not just re-
alignment but rebuilding. Though BSU will head for different stomping grounds it is safe to say the WAC is at its best in the hands of Benson and company.
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