Tight Squeeze If you were an Italian American growing up in the early to mid- 20th century, chances are that you or a sibling or one of your friends was forced to learn to play the accordion. So it was for 9-year-old Al Lazzarone, seen here (third row, third from left) playing with a band in Sacramento in 1932. Lazzarone, who moved to Reno in 1943 to attend the University, contributed this photo and his life story to a massive project being compiled by the University’s Oral History Program. It tells the story of the contributions of Italian Americans to northern Nevada’s history. More photos and information about the project can be found on page 8.  Nevada Silver & Blue • November/December 2005 INSIDEMARCH 2006 Departments From the President, 2 Quad & Beyond, 3 Alumni News, 23 The Way We Were, 44

10 Nevada Ingenuity Engineering faculty and alums are turning the world upside down. Stomachs too. By John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A. and Melanie Robbins

15 Beyond the Flesh Med School professor delivers for patients’ spiritual needs. By John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A.

16 Happiness is Not Normal New acceptance and commitment therapy helps psychology professor boost coping skills. By John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A.

18 The Judge’s Eyes Judge Steven Kosach weighs life’s sometimes surprising truths. By Mike Sion

20 The News is Not Good Dwindling audiences and declining influence have traditional journalism worried. A new grad program searches for solutions. By Brandon Stewart ’05

22 Surprise: Stomachs Have Pacemakers The gastric system turns out to have its own starter. By John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A.

40 Pack Track Family’s influence leads future engineer to all-around success. By Pat McDonnell

44 The Way We Were From a humble shrub to a pack of wolves. By Brandon Stewart ’05

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006  From the President SilverNEVADA & Blue Serving the households of 50,000 University of Nevada, Reno alumni and friends. This is not permanent Vol. XVII, No. 4 © Copyright 2006 www.unr.edu/alumni hen I recently and reluctantly agreed to spend six or seven months as interim president of the NEVADA SILVER & BLUE is published by the Office W of Marketing and Communications, University of University, several friends reminded me that last time Nevada, Reno. I took the interim job here I stayed for nearly 23 years. A few people made bold to ask whether I might want Jones Center/108 to mount a similar effort this time around. I’m sure this University of Nevada, Reno was a rhetorical question, given that such an undertak- TheresaPhotoby Danna-Douglas Reno, NV 89557-0129 (775) 784-4941 ing would leave me installed in the president’s office FAX: (775) 784-1422 until I reach age 95. True, Eliphalet Nott, the fabled 19th e-mail: [email protected] century president of Union College, was 92 when he left ADDRESS CHANGES the presidency, having served for 62 years. He might University of Nevada, Reno Foundation have been there longer had he not been carried out of MS162, Reno, NV 89557 the office feet first, enroute to the cemetery. (775) 784-1587; [email protected] But fear not! I will be back in the bosom of my fam- ily this coming summer, by which time the Board of Interim President Joe Crowley Regents will have turned the job over to someone else and the individual will be called — in the common but Managing Editors Jane Tors ’82 • [email protected] mysterious argot of modern higher education — the “permanent president.” He or she will Ed Cohen • [email protected] be number 15 in the institution’s long history. Graphic Designers Permanency seems an odd mantle for a position whose occupants these days seldom Claudia Ortega-Lukas • [email protected] make it to a decade in office, let alone the six of them enjoyed by Dr. Nott. When I began Lucy Walker ’05 M.A. • [email protected] my presidential labors 28 years ago, average tenure among my colleagues around the Photo Editor Jean Dixon • [email protected] country was said to be 4.5 years, a statistic also used at that time to describe the average Contributing Writers length of service of a running back in the National Football League. The two jobs are not dissimilar. Jill Boudreaux • [email protected] Whatever the current average may be, and however oxymoronic it is to think of a Bob Conrad ’95 • [email protected] president’s job as permanent, it is certainly important to recognize the importance of the Vikki Ford ’88 M.A. • [email protected] task upon which the regents (and the search advisory committee assisting them) are now Patrick McDonnell • [email protected] embarked. They have discussed the many desired attributes of the person they hope to Robert Pearson • [email protected] appoint, understanding that there are few people around to answer that ambitious call. Melanie Robbins • [email protected] It has long been the wish of those charged with finding a new president that the person John Trent ’85, ’87, ’00 M.A. finally hired should have, in the too often-used and inelegant phrase, the qualities of God John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A. • [email protected] on a good day. It’s good to aim high and it is reasonable to expect an impressive group of candidates to apply. Ours is a strong, thriving, attractive institution, after all, full of both Student Writers rich traditions and great promise. Come July or August, the 15th president will set out to Adam Carter ’06 • Jason Ching ’06 • Cecelia Ghezzi ’05 build on those traditions enroute to playing a major role in fulfilling that promise. And, my interimship at that time ending 38 years short of breaking his record, Dr. Nott can continue Contributing photographers to rest in peace. John Byrne • David Calvert ’07 • Ted Cook • Theresa Danna-Douglas • Matt Theilen ’03

Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents Mark Alden Joe Crowley, interim president Stavros Anthony Jill Derby Thalia Dondero Dr. Crowley returned as interim president in December after John M. Lilley, the University’s Dorothy Gallagher, Vice Chair president since 2001, was named president of his alma mater, Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Doug Hill Linda Howard James Leavitt Howard Rosenberg Jack Schofield Steve Sisolak Bret Whipple, Chair Michael Wixom Stay informed. Subscribe to Nevada News Online at James E. Rogers, Chancellor www.unr.edu/nevadanews

 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Quad&Beyond Starrs named 2005 Nevada Professor of the Year

he Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and Tthe Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) named Nevada geography professor Paul F. Starrs the 2005 Nevada Professor of the Year. Starrs was selected from nearly 400 professors nominated in the United States and its territories. This year there were winners in 40 states, Guam and the District of Columbia. There were only 40 state

Photo by Jean Dixon by Photo Jean winners because Holocaust Center brings in some states no nominee was Anne Frank exhibit to Reno deemed worthy of the award. he Center for Holocaust, Genocide & Peace Studies brought Starrs’ affable Tan educational exhibit, Anne Frank: A History for Today, to personality as Reno from Feb. 1 through March 11 at the Downtown Reno well as his near- Library. encyclopedic The exhibit was created by the Anne Frank House in Am- knowledge of sterdam and was one of several copies in various languages cultural geogra- touring Europe, Australia, South America, the Caribbean and phy makes him other parts of the world. very popular in Thousands of middle-school students from districts in the classroom. northern Nevada and California were expected to view it while In his Introduc- it was in Reno. Geography professor Paul F. Starrs, pictured tion to Cultural “The purpose of the exhibit is to promote tolerance for and here during commencement last year, was Geography class, acceptance of diversity,” said Viktoria Hertling, the Nevada named 2005 Nevada Professor of the Year. for instance, center’s director, adding that he has been known to use orange-crate labels from the early 1900s Frank’s story holds a special Background: On June that depicted a golden West of mountains, sunshine and beautiful resonance for young people. 12, 1942, Anne Frank’s women to explain how Southern California attracted easterners to Frank was only 15 when she parents gave her a small what was at the time a poorly developed region. died in a concentration camp red-and-white plaid diary This is not the first time Starrs has been honored for excellence after spending 25 months in teaching. He received the Regents Teaching Award in 2004, the in hiding during World War for her 13th birthday. F. Donald Tibbitts University Teaching Excellence Award in 2001 II along with her family and More than 50 years later, and the University of Nevada College of Arts and Science Alan Bible four others. Their refuge was this diary has become Outstanding Teaching Award in 1998. an annex of rooms above her one of the most well- Starrs said, “I am happy to be at an institution that recognizes and father’s office in Amsterdam. rewards good teaching. It’s nice to see this great University holding The panels consist of known memoirs of the to its roots.” narrative text and photo- Holocaust. Available in Six University of Nevada professors have previously been honored graphic reproductions that 67 languages, more than with the Carnegie-CASE award: Gary Hausladen (geography), Phil tell the story of Frank’s life in 30 million copies have Boardman (English), Gene LeMay (chemistry), Dale Holcombe (ani- historical context, enhanced been sold. mal biotechnology), Meggin McIntosh (education) and Gary Norris by testimony from Holocaust (civil and environmental engineering). survivors. The Professor of the Year competition takes place in several The exhibit was funded in part by City of Reno Community stages. Each candidate must first be selected from many qualified Pride Grants with support from the Washoe County School peers at his or her own institution and nominated. Letters of support District, Washoe County Library System, Atlantis Hotel Casino and endorsements from current and former students, colleagues, & Resort, Nevada Humanities Committee, Nevada Museum of and presidents or academic deans accompany the entries. CASE as- Art, Truckee Meadows Community College and New York-based sembles the preliminary expert judging panels, consisting of deans Anne Frank Center USA. and professors, education writers, and government, foundation, and In conjunction with the exhibit, the organizers planned a association representatives. The Carnegie Foundation assembles the series of community events and an essay/poetry contest. For panel that picks the winners. a complete list, visit www.unr.edu/annefrank or call the Holo- The Carnegie Foundation is the only advanced-study center for caust Center at (775) 784-6767. teachers in the world. CASE is the largest international association of — Melanie Robbins educational institutions. — Jill Boudreaux

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006  Quad&Beyond President Crowley pens book on 100 years of the NCAA

nterim Nevada President and Iformer NCAA Membership Meet at Joe’s President Joe Crowley has Joe Crowley’s name will al- written a coffee-table book ways be a part of the campus. commemorating the first 100 The new student union will years of the National Collegiate be named for Crowley, who Athletic Association, In the served as University president Arena: The NCAA’s First Century. from 1978 to 2001 and The 248-page, lavishly il- returned to serve as interim lustrated publication ($24.95) president in December 2005. “His leadership poised the

chronicles the development AndrewJ. Hallowelll/NCAA Photos. Used with permission. of the modern-day NCAA with University for the national special attention to the last 25 reputation it holds today,” said years. Crowley was member- former President John Lilley. ship president of the NCAA “Naming our student union after Joe is an appropriate and from 1993 to 1995. He was also This photo from the book shows the College of New Jersey’s a sportswriter for the Fresno Bee women’s lacrosse team celebrating after winning the 2005 fitting honor.” in the 1960s. Division III championship. Construction of the In the book Crowley notes 165,000-square-foot, $59 mil- that the association’s role in and governmental influence, The NCAA plans to distrib- lion Joseph Crowley Student overseeing the activities of and ongoing changes in rules ute In the Arena to student Union will begin this spring athletic teams — some 6,000 enforcement. athletes participating in all 2006 and is slated for completion in in Division I alone — has often “The way journalists have championships. The book is late 2007. been misunderstood. The book viewed the NCAA as disat- available for purchase online With a variety of food pays particular attention to the tached from its members and at selected book stores. and retail options, offices for evolution of major legislation, makes it a ready target,” Crow- Order directly from the NCAA at student government and ac- the increasing role of women ley says. “There are more than http://ncaa.sportgraphics.biz. tivities, and other student and and minorities in the asso- 1,100 member institutions and — Pat McDonnell faculty resources, it will be a ciation, the effect of litigation they vote on all issues.” centerpiece of campus life. Nevada’s medical school connecting with Southeast Asia ou don’t have to look far to find school in the capital, Bangkok. care works in a different culture. For Yevidence that when it comes to health The Nevada-Thailand connection example, in Thailand, third-party payers issues, the world is a very small place. The started with Thailand native Pisespong and malpractice insurance are not part of rapid spread of avian flu across continents Patamasucon, a pediatric infectious dis- the medical system. and the widely discussed possibility of a eases specialist on the School of Medi- Eisen also envisions opportunities for global pandemic are just two examples of cine’s faculty, initiating a relationship with clinical trial collaborations. this connectivity. officials at Thailand’s largest university “This collaboration can really provide “You can’t disregard medical issues in hospital, also in Bangkok. Beginning with some value to us as an academic institu- one part of the world because you think a visit in 2002, faculty and residents from tion,” he says. “The kind of research work it doesn’t affect you today,” says Andrew the Nevada school have visited Thailand we can do in partnership with these other Eisen, associate professor of pediatrics annually to conduct training workshops. institutions is more than we can do on in the University of Nevada School of This spring, the first Thai trainee — a our own, particularly in getting involved Medicine. “By working together with final-year medical student — will come to in clinical trials with a hospital that has institutions in other parts of the world, the United States and do a six-week rota- thousands and thousands of patients roll- we can address healthcare needs more ef- tion in internal and family medicine. ing through every day.” ficiently, more effectively than if we wait When visiting the Thai hospitals, Ne- Eisen says he hopes to establish more until there’s something like bird flu in the vada faculty and residents typically join international collaborations. United States.” the residents on rounds. Eisen remem- “If you look around the country, all the Eisen, who is also the School of bers being shown a child with measles. top-tier medical schools have internation- Medicine’s assistant dean for international “I said, ‘Whoa, my residents have never al collaborations. We’re looking at this as a affairs, has made several trips to Thailand, seen a kid with measles, it’s uncommon starting point for connections with other where the school is forging strong col- here.’ So, it’s a potential opportunity to schools in the region, including contacts laborations with Phramongkutklao Medi- add something to residents’ experience.” in southern India and South Korea.” cal College, the Royal Thai Army’s medical It’s also a chance to see how health — John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A.

 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Quad&Beyond Fulbrights send quake expert to New Zealand, deliver child-slavery researcher here

hree faculty members won prestigious Ful- bright awards to teach and study abroad and Tthe University is hosting two visiting Fulbright scholars, from Tunisia and Germany. Photo by JeanPhotoby Dixon The Nevada faculty sent abroad are: n Susan Bender, director of the Office of Interna- tional Students and Scholars. Bender was one of four people chosen for a highly competitive Fulbright scholarship in South Korea for international education administrators. Bender qualified for the scholarship because the University of Nevada has a significant number of South Korean students (45 in fall 2005) and because the University is working to increase student and faculty connec- tions with South Korea. As a part of the two-week Korean International Education Administration program taking place in June of 2005, Bender traveled throughout the country visiting universities and high schools and attending lectures and symposiums related to the South Korean educational system, economy, history and culture. The visiting Fulbright scholars: Visiting scholar Hatem “It was basically a program to learn as much as you n Hatem Ben Jouira is a visiting scholar from the Ben Jouira holds a could about the culture and education system,” she Laboratory of Molecular Physiology of Grapevines sheet that contains says. at the National Institute for Scientific Research and protein stains that Bender says she was struck by the spirit of volun- Technology in Hammam, Tunisia. He arrived at the can be used to make teerism. “The South Korean students have a social University in September 2005 and will be conducting grapevines resistant to environmental obligation to give back to their communities. Each research in conjunction with Grant Cramer, profes- stressors. school we visited had programs that support people sor of biochemistry and molecular biology, through in need.” June 2006. They’ll be identifying proteins that make certain types of grapevines resistant to drought n John Louie, associate professor of seismology. and salinity in harsh environments as well as other Louie is currently conducting research at Victoria environmental stressors. University of Wellington, New Zealand, and develop a computerized earthquake simulation for Welling- n Niki Repanis of the Catholic University of Ap- ton, the country’s urban area most at risk for earth- plied Sciences, Munich at Benediktbeuern in Germany quake damage. He based his research on a model he is the first German Fulbright scholar to study at the developed for Reno and Las Vegas. University of Nevada. Repanis is enrolled in the master’s in social work program. Her research focuses n Mike Robinson, professor of curriculum, teach- on children trafficked into the Philippine sex-trade ing and learning. industry. For her thesis she spent a year in the Philip- Robinson traveled to Mbarara University of Science pines studying the role social work can play in fighting and Technology in Mbarara, Uganda, from December human trafficking for sexual exploitation. 2004 to June 2005 to work in the school’s Department of Education. He taught courses in secondary science The Fulbright Program, America’s flagship interna- teaching methods to pre-service teachers in math- tional education exchange activity, is sponsored by ematics, biology, chemistry and physics, conducted the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational research on how secondary science is taught in and Cultural Affairs. Established in 1946 under legisla- Uganda and how it can be improved, and observed tion introduced by the late Sen. J. William Fulbright of and evaluated secondary pre-service science teachers Arkansas, the program’s purpose is to build mutual doing their student teaching. understanding between the people of the United States and other countries. — Jill Boudreaux

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006  Quad&Beyond $15 million pledge to propel prodigies ob and Jan Davidson embrace opportu- building for the natural sciences, Leifson Bnities in a big way. This past December Physics, was added in 1972. At that time the the Davidsons pledged $15 million toward University had 6,500 students, and today construction of a new math and science enrollment has topped 16,000. building and toward the University-based Adding to the need is a stronger emphasis Davidson Academy of Nevada for profoundly on math and sciences as part of the Universi-

intelligent students. Their gift is the largest in ty’s core curriculum. “Virtually all students in Photocourtesy ofJane Kalinowsky the University’s history. all majors will take classes in this building. We The Davidsons have had a profound im- want all students — not just science majors pact on an untold number of gifted children — to have an understanding of the scientific and their families across the country through method and the limitations and potentials of the Davidson Institute for Talent Develop- science,” says Westfall. “If this building arrived ment. Through their gift to the math and tomorrow, if would be full.” science building, the Davidsons will make an The Davidsons’ gift also will strengthen impact on another front: the education and the foundation for regional economic development of much-needed scientists. development. “Both the Davidson Academy In his national bestseller The World Is Flat, and the math and science building will make author Thomas Friedman reports on the tangible and significant contributions to shortage of scientists and engineers at a the future talent pool,” adds John Frederick, time when global competition for people University provost. “Prospective businesses with these skills is on the rise. These data in high-paying industries look for this.” trends, published by the National Science The Davidson Academy of Nevada will Board, threaten the economic welfare and open in an interim facility in August with security of our country. approximately 30 profoundly gifted students The Davidson Academy, founded by Dave Westfall, dean of the College of in its inaugural class. The University’s $50 Jan and Bob Davidson, will bring gifted Science, agrees: “Investment in science and million math and science building is slated to students to campus. math education in this country is imperative.” open in 2009. On the University campus, the last new — Jane Tors ’82 Center for Basque Studies hosts distinguished scholar he first recipient of the Wil- 2005-06 academic year re- networking of Basque scholars. Tliam A. Douglass Distin- searching and writing a book Renowned specialists in guished Scholar Award has ar- on the historical progression Basque studies will be candi-

rived in Nevada from the Public JeanPhotoby Dixon and development of Basque dates for the award, based on University of Navarre in Spain. political institutions. He also outstanding contributions in Gregorio Monreal Zia was will be organizing conferences the field, research achievement unanimously selected by on Basque politics, history and scholarly innovation. the faculty of the Center for and law at several universities The Center for Basque Stud- Basque Studies to receive the throughout the country, as ies has five full-time faculty and award, which is presented in well as seminars on the Reno numerous adjunct professors, conjunction with the minis- campus. This appointment is a doctoral students and more tries of Education, Culture and homecoming for Monreal, who than 30 course offerings. The Foreign Affairs of the Basque spent the 1985-86 academic University’s Basque Studies Government. year in Reno. Library is known as the most Professor Monreal, (pro- The William A. Douglass important Basque collection nounced mon-ray-ALL) earned Distinguished Scholar Award outside of the Basque Country. his doctorate in law from Monreal Zia is named in honor of Profes- The Basque Country is the Complutense University rector from 1981-85. He served sor Douglass, who served for located between France and of Madrid and has taught at as president of the Society of 30 years as coordinator of the Spain on the coast of the Bay several universities, including Basque Studies from 1992-96 then Basque Studies Pro- of Biscay, on both slopes of the the University of Valladolid and is currently a professor of gram at the Desert Research western Pyrenees. The territory in Extremadura, Spain, the the history of law at the Public Institute/University of Nevada. is linked historically, ethnically University of Paris XII and the University of Navarre, Spain. The award promotes scholarly and culturally through a com- University of the Basque Coun- Monreal will be at the research in Basque studies mon language and territorial try, where he served as the first University throughout the and facilitates international administrative government.

 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Quad&Beyond

Giving formula answers Nevada dietitian has crunched the numbers and come up with a key nutrition equation wo-thirds of Americans are overweight, with only smoking killing Tmore people than poor diet and exercise habits. So, how do you lose those excess pounds? You could jump on the Fad Diet of the Month bandwagon, but for many people this is an unscientific and usually unsuccessful venture. The answer is disarmingly simple: caloric balance. You burn off more calories than you consume. If only there were a formula to estimate how many calories you need? But wait, there is — and it was developed on the Nevada campus. “I don’t know if the Reno population even knows they contributed to it,” says Sachiko St. Jeor, professor of clinical medicine and chief of the medi- cal school’s Division of Medical Nutrition. “It was developed from Making mosquitoes data gathered in the first clinical study conducted at the School of pee to death Photo by JeanPhotoby Dixon Medicine — the Reno Diet-Heart Study.” evada researchers have discovered a hormone The study, which ran from 1985 Nin the malaria-carrying mosquito that could be to 1995, included 500 volunteer used to kill the pest by making it pee when it can’t participants from the Reno area. afford the fluid loss. The formula developed esti- The hormone causes a massive loss of sodium mates of an individual’s specific chloride, which causes the mosquito to release urine. energy needs. That’s important Stimulation of this process when the mosquito is not information if you want to develop feeding could cause it to die. and evaluate a person’s diet or The discovery, by David Schooley, professor of nutrition program. By knowing biochemistry at the University of Nevada College of how many calories you need Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources, to stay alive and carry out basic and Geoff Coast of the University of London, was pub- functions, and then factoring in lished last fall in the Journal of Experimental Biology. calories burned in daily physical When a mosquito sucks blood from a human activities, you can figure out what — and only pregnant female mosquitoes do this — it level of food intake is needed to takes in twice its body weight in blood. To offset this lose weight. added weight, the mosquito urinates on its victim. The so-called “Mifflin-St. Jeor Coast discovered that introducing one of the two Equation” was recently found diuretic, or urination-triggering, hormones into the St. Jeor is also director of the to be the most reliable by an mosquito caused it to excrete fluid rich in sodium University’s Center for Nutrition American Dietetic Association chloride, the main salt in blood. Only one particular and Metabolic Disorders, which expert panel and has become the hormone was found to cause the massive loss of so- dium chloride that forces the mosquito to pee when offers individuals a range of national standard for calculating resting energy metabolism. not feeding, Schooley says. long-term weight management St. Jeor and Mark Mifflin, a The researchers’ discovery could lead to the options. former medical student who is development of synthetic compounds that mimic For more information: now an ophthalmologist in Utah, the action of the hormones and would function as an effective pesticide, he says. “[The hormone] only af- (775) 784-4474, ext. 16. Or developed the formula in 1991. It replaced a formula that had been fects lower species such as insects, which suggests it www.unrweightlossforlife.org in common use since 1919. should be very safe to non-insect species.” However, St. Jeor has recently been he says development and testing could take up to 10 working on some newer formulae in collaboration with former School of years. Medicine statistician Gary Cutter. They will be coming out with some new Schooley and Coast’s research was funded by a formulae that are based on a larger population, including minorities $927,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health. — John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A. — Bob Conrad ’95

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006  Quad&Beyond Extension specialists join mite fight iamond Valley is a jeweled oasis tucked into the Dwider expanses of Nevada’s sagebrush desert

Photoscourtesy Oralof History Program in central Eureka County. There, hay farms produce top-quality cool-season grass hay for high-end markets in the U.S. and Pacific Rim. However, a major glitch occurred in 2002 when a large attack of tiny mites (inset, below) caused severe economic losses to the hay crops. “The combined losses in this valley totaled about $5 million,” estimates Mark Moyle, an alfalfa and hay grower for more than 20 years and vice president of the Nevada Hay and Forage Growers Association. Above: The Reno Public Market in 1940. “We had no effective pesticide labeled (legally per- It was opened in 1934 by Guido Pincolini, mitted) for use against this pest.” second from left, and his brother Bruno, Willie Riggs, Eureka County ex- far right. Right: The Capurro family in tension educator, says the county 1926. Patriarch Steve (Stefano) Capurro, has little livestock production, front left, emigrated to the Reno area from a village near Genoa, Italy, in 1884. so when the mining industry He worked in ranching. slumps, the local economy de- pends on hay production. Faced with the need for a registered Oral History chronicles Italian-American pesticide to control the mites, an area forage/alter- native crops specialist for the University of Nevada influence on northern Nevada Cooperative Extension, Jay Davison, was asked to heir footprints are everywhere. transcripts will emerge in a multi-volume help petition the federal Environmental Protection TStreet signs carry their family’s set, copies of which will be placed in the Agency. Davison, Riggs and the growers association names. Their holdings — vast stretches university libraries in Reno and Las Vegas. were successful in getting the miticide Acramite of ranch and farmland in the Truckee The Oral History Program will also make approved, one of only 15 such approvals granted Meadows — were, and continue to be, copies available to the public, either in nationwide from 350 applications that year. Another an influential component of northern hard copy or on CDs. miticide is working its way through the testing Nevada’s history. “This will be a wonderful thing for and approvals process, and Davison and Riggs are It was only natural, then, that Tom our community,” says King, director of working with researchers in the Nevada Department King, director of the Oral History the program since 1983. of Agriculture and other Western states to develop Program, saw an opportunity to tell Jean Guisti Carbon, development integrated pest management techniques for cool- an important story: that of the area’s director for the College of Agriculture, season grasses as well as forage crops. Italian-American families. Beginning Biotechnology and Natural Resources, — Vikki Ford ’88 M.A./Cooperative Extension in summer 2004 with a $47,000 grant was one of the chroniclers involved from the E.L. Wiegand Foundation, with the project. Her Nevada roots are King and the program embarked on a deep — her grandfather, Joe, arrived project to record the Italian-American in Nevada more than a century ago, experience. It was one of the most and her father, Marshall, was a Reno ambitious projects in the program’s City Councilman. history, involving 51 chroniclers, or “These people were such tremen- interview subjects, as well as video- dous role models,” Carbon says. “They taping and still photography. had a philosophy that was unique: The numbers of the project are stag- They were always grateful for what gering: 4,500 pages of transcript, 20 hours they had, and they were always willing of video, more than 140 historic photos to give some of it back to their com- from chroniclers’ personal collections munity. In many ways, these Italian- Photocourtesy Universityof ofNevada, Reno Cooperative Extension and 100 contemporary digital photos. American families made Reno what it King said that when editing, formatting, is today.” From left: Central/Northeast Cooperative Extension printing and binding are completed, the — John Trent ’85, ’87, ’00 M.A. Area Director Jerry Buk, Provost John Frederick, Cooperative Extension Area Forage/Alternative For more information regarding the Italian-American project, go to Oral Crops Specialist Jay Davison and Extension Educator Willie Riggs inspect the impact of mites on History’s web site, www.unr.edu/cla/oralhist/, or phone (775) 784-6932. hay in Diamond Valley in north-central Nevada.

 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Quad&Beyond

Bookshelf w Amerikanuak: Basques in the The following books are all recent releases by the University of Nevada Press. University New World of Nevada Press titles are now available for purchase online: www.nvbooks.nevada.edu By William A. Douglass, initiator and former coordinator with the Center w Another first for for Basque Studies at the University of congressional Nevada, and Jon Bilbao, former instruc- pioneer Vucanovich tor with the University’s Center for In a career that has Basque Studies. encompassed many firsts, An introduc- Nevada’s first female tion to the history Photo by TheresaPhotoby Danna-Douglas member of Congress, of the Basque Barbara Vucanovich is people and their still chalking up notable five centuries of achievements at age 84. involvement in Nevada has had a total the New World. of 32 different people Research for the represent the state in the book took the au- House of Representatives, thors through 10 but she’s the first to write states of the American West, Mexico, a memoir. Former Congresswoman Barbara Vucanovich (left) teamed Colombia, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Brazil Encouraged by the with daughter Patty Cafferata to write the memoir. and Venezuela. As they trace the story University of Nevada of the Basques back to their mysteri- Press, Vucanovich, who holds got along with (Senate Majority Leader) Tip ous origins in prehistory, they provide an honorary doctorate from the University, sat O’Neill like nobody’s business,” Vucanovich background for understanding the down at weekly sessions with her daughter, recalls. “You didn’t have to be disagreeable to Basques’ character and their home- Patty Cafferata, for more than five years. The disagree.” land in the Pyrenean mountains and result was Barbara F. Vucanovich: From Nevada Vucanovich remembers Reagan fondly. seacoasts between France and Spain. to Congress and Back Again. “He was the president I respected and liked “Fortunately, when I was a member of the most,” she says. w Black Rock Congress, I kept a lot of records,” says Vuca- Vucanovich is still energetically involved By Peter Goin, foundation profes- novich, who donated her congressional and in public service, serving on the Commission sor of art, and Paul Starrs, professor of campaign papers to the University library’s on White House Fellowships and the board of geography. Special Collections. Casa De Vida, a shelter for pregnant teenage Nevada’s silent and isolated Black Cafferata, a practicing attorney who won girls. Rock Desert has been the focus of races for district attorney in three different Although Cafferata did much of the writing study and exploration by scientists, Nevada counties, says her mother’s book is in the book, she also sought help from her explorers, outdoors aficionados and more than just a memoir. own daughter, Elisa Maser (’91 MBA), who is artists. In Black Rock, photographer “It’s a wonderful history of Nevada because the third woman in the family to seek political Goin and geographer Starrs investi- she talks about the people, the lifestyle here,” office. She is running for Washoe County gate this environment and reach out Cafferata says. “Then, of course, there’s all the Commission. to the reader through photographs, political stuff, which is what people know —John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A. detailed historical maps and text. about her.” Encouraged to run in 1982 by Nevada Sena- The exhibit Public Lives in Personal Pa- w In the Desert of Desire: tor Paul Laxalt, Vucanovich, who was then 62, pers: Barbara Vucanovich, Nevada’s First Las Vegas and the CulturE became the first Nevada woman ever elected Woman in Congress is currently on dis- OF Spectacle to a federal office. She retired in 1996 having By William A. Fox, independent served seven terms. play in the University’s Special Collections scholar, cultural geographer, essayist, “One of the things I learned very early on is Department, Getchell Library room 291. poet and travel writer. that you have to have your own convictions,” • The collection highlights Vucanovich’s Fox examines how Las Vegas’ cul- Vucanovich says. “You don’t sell your soul for a professional life and draws from the ex- ture of spectacle represents one of the vote or even to be re-elected.” world’s most lavish displays of private When Vucanovich was first elected there tensive materials she donated to Special material wealth in all its forms while were just 19 women serving in the House; Collections. at the same time providing minimal today there are 61 congresswomen. She • The exhibit is scheduled to run until funding for local public amenities such remembers her early years as a time when March 31. Hours for the department are as museums and zoos. Washington politics, although fiercely parti- — Cecelia Ghezzi ’05 san, was much less confrontational than today. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., “When you think about it, Ronald Reagan Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006  CoverStory Nevada Ron Toomer Ingenuity ’61 Mechanical Engineering These engineering faculty and alums are turning n one of life’s little ironies the the world upside down. Stomachs too. man responsible for modern roller coaster technology admits ou might not have heard of Ron Toomer, but I he suffers from motion sickness you’ve seen, and maybe experienced, his and rarely rode his own rides. handiwork. Y “I’ve never cared for the things,” says Ron Dubbed the “sovereign of steel coasters” by Toomer. “It’s kind of a joke in the industry. I’ve ridden a few of them, but I get really sick. As a Encyclopedia Britannica, Toomer (’61 mechanical child, I could hardly ride in a car.” Toomer adds that he developed the ability engineering) pioneered the development of the steel to “feel” what riders might experience as he designed his rides. In the early years, before roller coaster. During his 30-plus years in the industry, computers became commonplace, all the cal- culations were done by hand. the now-retired engineer designed more than 80 Toomer’s long list of “firsts” includes developing the first steel coaster, the first up- “scream machines” – the gravity-defying steel coasters side-down coaster, and the over-the-shoulder that are icons of amusement parks worldwide. restraint bar. Other contributions to the indus- try include suspension cushioning, air-actu- Like Einstein dreaming of an undulating universe, ated braking systems, and the first track with a corkscrew turn. Although the tasks were Toomer took pieces of bent wire and shaped them complex, he often used a simple design tool. “Bending wire was a good way to visual- into his vision for a new kind of roller coaster. He was ize what we were trying to do,” Toomer says. “We sort of pioneered the whole upside down able to harness his engineering skills to a vision. thing that really changed the amusement ride business forever.” So have countless other engineering college faculty Toomer’s career includes other legendary engineering projects besides roller coasters. and alums. Here’s a closer look at several. He worked on the Minuteman missile as well

10 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 11 CoverStory Photo courtesy of Ron Toomer Ron of courtesy Photo Coaster king

as on an important component of NASA’s “It was kind of a crazy thing to take Where to find a Apollo space capsule: char-rate sensors over a company with no cash behind us,” Ron Toomer-designed for the heat shield. Toomer says. “It turned out that several coaster Modestly, Toomer, who grew up in people in the amusement parks were just The Ron Toomer-designed “scream Pasadena, Calif., during the Depression, waiting to see what was going to happen. machine” nearest to Reno is at Para- credits much of his career to luck. The Kings Island people in Cincinnati mount’s Great America in Santa Clara, “Being in the right place at the right jumped out of the woodwork and ordered Calif. In southern Nevada, there is a cork- time has a lot to do with getting jobs,” he a big coaster. That got us going. I think we screw looping ride inside Circus Circus. says. “At a time when a company I was had $10 million in sales that first year and Not far from Las Vegas is the Desperado, involved with went into bankruptcy, a about $15 million the next. By the third a 225-foot thriller at Primm, Nev. welder friend recommended me to the year, we had $20 million in sales.” Toomer’s creativity led to the develop- people at Arrow Dynamics, who hap- With Toomer serving as “president, ment of more than 80 rides worldwide. Some of the best known include: pened to be looking for a mechanical en- chief salesman and bottle washer,” as he n The Corkscrew, Knott’s Berry Farm, gineer at the time. They had a company, describes it, Arrow would continue to be Buena Park, Calif., and also Cedar Point, Six Flags Over Texas, looking for a roller a power in the amusement industry for Sandusky, Ohio. Notable because this coaster, so they needed some help with another decade. Toomer says, “One day I was the first coaster to turn its riders that. That’s how I got started — from the was sitting there and I thought to myself, upside down three times. bottom, because none of us knew all that ‘My God, I’ve done more of this than n The Magnum XL-200, Cedar Point. much about roller coasters.” anybody in the world has ever done until This out-and-back coaster was the first to That original coaster is still in operation now.” top 200 feet. near Toomer’s home in the Dallas-Fort “During our best years, we were prob- n Big Bad Wolf, Busch Gardens, Worth area. ably the leading company in the world,” Williamsburg, Va. The first suspended In 1984, Arrow went into bankruptcy, he says. “It’s been a great thing for me. I coaster. and Toomer and some of his co-work- wish everybody could have a job that they n Space Mountain, Disneyland, ers took the risky step of taking over the enjoyed so much.” Anaheim, Calif. Toomer worked on this business. — John Wheeler ’86, ’87M.A. complicated ride for about two years.

10 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 NevadaNevada SilverSilver && BlueBlue •• SpringSpring 20062006 11 CoverStory Allen Gates professor, department chair, mechanical engineering

t’s not easy being green — especially if you’re two cheap and potentially search, education and outreach abundant sources in Nevada: center for the development and Ialgae. In fact, it’s downright schizophrenic. weeds and algae. The state has application of geothermal and plenty of room to grow oil-rich renewable energy. The cam- Up at Lake Tahoe, algae are The University’s chemical plants similar to sagebrush pus itself will be a showpiece vilified as the main culprits and mechanical engineering and then process them into a for these technologies, being in the notorious “greening” of departments have joined a material that can be turned totally “green,” thanks to its the lake and its subsequent di- consortium with Oak Ridge into biodiesel. However, Gates use of geothermal electricity minished clarity. A few miles National Laboratory and Ohio says, it’s our new best friend, piped from the nearby Ormat away, at the foot of the Mt. University to launch a research algae, that offers the most geothermal power plant at Rose Highway, algae are being program aimed at producing promise. Steamboat Springs. It will be tabbed to play a starring role biodiesel. It’s one of several “You can grow algae in a the only campus in the world to in the “greening” of America cutting-edge renewable energy reactor with a much smaller be powered entirely by geother- – and that’s a good thing, research initiatives under way footprint,” Gates says. “It mal energy. Although there are according to Allen Gates, me- at the University, including would take a lot of acreage to other renewable energy centers chanical engineering professor geothermal energy and the grow enough desert plants.” around the country, the conflu- and department chair. use of hydrogen power. All The Renewable Energy Cen- ence of geothermal, solar and “You can probably produce these programs will come ter, a public-private partnership, biomass potential in Nevada enough biodiesel from algae or together under one roof at the is set to be a world-class re- makes the center unique. desert plants to replace maybe new Renewable Energy Center 20 to 30 percent of the fossil to be housed at the Universi- More information on the University’s Renewable Energy fuel diesel used in the state,” ty’s Redfield Campus. Gates says. Biodiesel can be made from Center: www.unr.edu/geothermal/UNRREC.htm Photo by Matt Theilen ’03 Theilen by Photo Matt blockhead eric wang associate professor, mechanical engineering

n Eric Wang’s freshmen mechanical engineering classes, students play with Lego brand toy-building I bricks, pit “bots” against each other on a battlefield in Palmer Engineering, and never have to buy a textbook.

That’s because Wang (pronounced The book, Engineering with LEGO® Wong) is one of the gurus of Lego Bricks and ROBOLAB™, was first robotics. published in 2003 and has sold nearly The associate professor of mechan- 10,000 copies worldwide – a large ical engineering has written the only number for an educational text. The book on the programming language second edition was published in ROBOLAB and teaches educators January 2005 and has been trans- how to introduce engineering design lated into simplified and traditional concepts via the Lego Mindstorms Chinese and Korean; Spanish and family of robot-making kits. Japanese versions are in the works.

12 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Photo by Jean Dixon by Photo Jean algae CoverStory refiner Time hails alum’s coconut cloth hydrogen. Gates says producing hydrogen hat do you get when you cross a from fossil fuels doesn’t coconut with some yarn? make sense because it W In Greg Haggquist’s case, you takes almost as much get recognized by Time magazine energy to produce as for creating one of the most amazing you get back. inventions of 2005. Biofuels production Haggquist, who earned his doc- is more like recycling, torate in physical chemistry at the Gates says. The energy University in 1991, figured out a way to to grow the algae comes embed activated carbon, derived from from the sun. The algae coconut shells, into fiber and yarns. A convert solar energy cycling jersey made by Cannondale is into chemical energy. the first product to use this technology. Why coconut shells? “They have “Then when you the proper physical qualities that we produce biodiesel and need,” says Haggquist, who created burn it, you release that his own company, Traptek, to develop chemical energy. All and market such innovative products. Gates plans to focus the center algae does is serve as an “I was looking for activated carbon to on the thermal applications of solar energy-storage device.” absorb odors and the question was energy, specifically geothermal and — J.W. how to get it into the polymer and biomass, with a view to producing keep it active. That was the invention that had to happen for us to get to this product.” Haggquist says developing differ- ent products us- ing composites technology has been the focus of his career, which includes a postdoctoral Additionally, Lego Europe wants to him and asked if he would give stint in Japan distribute the book. workshops in that country and Aus- and work for The book evolved from Wang’s tralia. The company wanted him to Lexmark Inter- hands-on courses at the University in show educators how to teach science national. “I’m which freshmen buy a Lego kit rather and engineering using robotics. Now always think- than a textbook and design a “battle- he travels the globe for Lego. ing of how to bot” for their class project. The course But he doesn’t earn a penny from put things in culminates in a competition to see the company. Even money from something and get something new out which robot can wreak the most de- the book is donated to charities, of that material.” struction and survive the longest on including the University of Nevada Since the Time recognition, the “battlefield,” an indoor ring. Foundation. The royalties help fund Haggquist says he’s been inundated While Wang, winner of the learning activities within the College with inquiries. 2003 F. Donald Tibbitts University of Engineering. “We can’t produce enough samples Distinguished Teacher Award, was “That’s a personal philosophy,” he to get things out to the people who on sabbatical during the 2003-2004 says. “I believe that since the Uni- want to try this stuff out.” academic year at the University of versity is paying me to do work, they — John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A. Canterbury, Christchurch, in New deserve the money.” Zealand, Lego Education contacted — Melanie Robbins

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 13 CoverStory tim casey E is for enterprising ’86 Electrical Engineering Some other accomplished Nevada engineering alums im Casey has come full circle. He’s Casey has the background for both back at Nevada forging a future, but jobs. After earning his Bachelor of n Charles Coe (’48 mechanical engineer- T this time it’s for students, faculty and Science in Electrical Engineering at ing) — former NASA scientist, researcher and the community. Nevada and a law degree at Santa administrator who helped develop and test the As executive director of the Insti- Clara University School, he went into heat-shielding tiles on the space shuttle; now a tute for Innovation and Informatics intellectual property law. He served temporary consultant for Boeing. (I–Cubed, as it’s fondly called), Casey as director of intellectual property seeks to enhance the University’s range for Silicon Graphics Inc. and as chief n John Kleppe (’61 electrical engineering) — professor and chair of the Department of

Photo by Jean Dixon by Photo Jean technology counsel and senior vice president and Electrical Engineering who in the mid-’70s creat- assistant secretary for MCI ed an engine that ran on liquid nitrogen; named Communications Corpo- 1985 Inventor of the Year by Nevada Innovation ration/WorldCom Inc., & Technology Council; founded Scientific Engi- the neering Instruments; driving force behind the among other appointments. Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center for Innovation, Most recently, he was senior Invention, and Entrepreneurship. connector partner and chair of the Intellectual Property & n Robert “Bo” Ewald (’69 civil engineering) Technology Law Depart- — named by Science Digest as one of America’s ment at the Fried, Frank, brightest scientists younger than 40 in 1993; long Harris, Shriver & Jacobson associated with Cray Research and the Los Ala- law firm in Washington, mos National Laboratory; interim CEO for Silicon D.C. His expertise has been Graphics in the mid-1990s. sought by such organiza- tions as the United States n Henry Bunsow (’71 electrical engineering) Congress, the Wall Street — leading intellectual property attorney in the Journal and CNN. Bay Area; in 2002 won a jury verdict for more While at MCI he also than $61 million in an infringement case against of study programs in “informatics,” the invented a kind of reverse caller ID that the telecommunications giant Ericsson Inc. blending of information science and has been patented. Instead of the called information technology. He’s also the party being able to see who’s calling, n Ali Saffari (’82 electrical engineering) — se- University’s director of economic devel- the caller can verify that the number nior vice president of engineering for Interna- opment, which requires him to search he or she dialed is about to connect to tional Game Technology; oversees engineering out opportunities for students and the intended location. He also is the efforts for IGT gaming devices and MegaJack- faculty to develop commercial ventures, co-inventor and has a patent pending pots systems internationally. and for companies to collaborate with on a device that allows one’s personal n the University. digital assistant (PDA) to interface with Stephanie Luongo (’05 electrical engineer- ing) and Ben Haas (’05 electrical engineering) “We are trying to find ways to take a system in a store to help find items. — won the inaugural Donald W. Reynolds Gover- ideas that are being generated at the Casey says another of the I-Cubed’s nor’s Cup Award last year for the best business University and turn them into local objectives is to spread innovation and plan. Their proposed venture? Raising shrimp business opportunities so that we can entrepreneurship. The colleges of for the hotel-casino industry using geothermal spur economic growth and develop- engineering and business administra- energy. ment in our region.” tion already offer courses that promote I–Cubed, Casey says, won’t teach entrepreneurship, he says. “But there n Robert Worrell (’05 computer science classes or have academic faculty. Rath- need to be more opportunities.” and engineering) and David Leistiko (’05 er, the institute’s role is to make sure the — M.R. computer science and engineering) — won the existing colleges provide opportunities computer gaming Independent Games Festival’s for the study of informatics, a discipline Melanie Robbins is a writer-editor 2005 Student Showcase with an action-puzzle that Casey says crosses all fields. “Ev- and John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A. is the game called Squirrel Squabble. erybody needs to store, manipulate and senior writer in the University’s Office of process data in some fashion.” Marketing and Communications.

14 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Beyond the Flesh Medical professor asked to investigate ways to add spirituality to curriculum

enise McKee thinks School of Medicine professor and spirituality has a place family practice physician Denise in medicine. So does the McKee thinks doctors should adopt D a holistic approach to health care George Washington Institute for JeanPhotoby Dixon — one that includes patients’ Spirituality and Health, a division spiritual needs. of George Washington University Medical Center in Washington, D.C. It has awarded the University of Nevada School of Medicine doctor a three-year, $30,000 grant to conduct a study on integrating the void that you can’t control,” spirituality into the training of McKee says. resident physicians. She says studies have shown that “It’s an aspect of academic medi- as many as two-thirds of people cine that’s not being addressed,” who come to doctors with a physi- McKee says. “We are tripartite cal complaint really have deeper beings – physical, emotional and psycho-emotional diseases that spiritual – but we don’t address the manifest in a physical ailment. spiritual needs of our patients.” “If a patient is depressed, for ex- McKee, a professor in the ample, you can measure that their T- Department of Family and Com- 4 cells go down, making them more munity Medicine, previously susceptible to colds and flus,” she authored a landmark article on says. “If you only look at the physi- spirituality and medical care that cal manifestation, you’re just putting was published in the Journal of Fam- a Band-Aid on the problem.” For example, physicians need to know ily Practice in 1992. She says spiritual That type of holistic thinking is com- if a patient is taking herbs that could in- issues in medicine are controversial, in mon in Eastern medicine but less so in teract with the medicines they’re taking. part, because many people tend to equate the West, McKee notes. “Whether a physician or primary care spirituality with religion. She defines “Western medicine looks at things provider embraces alternative medicines spirituality more broadly than that. from a very physically oriented organ- or not, they need to know because their “You don’t have to believe in a higher system point of view,” she says. patients are doing it,” says McKee, who power to be a spiritual person,” she says. While for some people alternative received her undergraduate and medical “It means different things to different and complementary medicine is still a degrees at the University. people. Religion is just one component. controversial area, McKee says she is McKee’s team for this project will It might mean a walk in the woods. For comfortable investigating further. She is include campus experts in psychiatry, another person, science might even be a certified acupuncturist whose previous health ethics and pastoral care. Her study their spirituality.” research includes the use of acupunc- is supported by the School of Medicine’s Over the next three years, McKee and ture to treat young adults with acne. She administration. She hopes medical her colleagues will create and test a spiri- notes that a number of well-respected schools will increasingly introduce spiri- tuality curriculum for family medicine medical schools teach alternative health tuality into the training of doctors. residents at the School of Medicine. modalities. “I’d like to see this forward-looking “This is very timely,” she says. “Pa- “Schools like the University of Ari- approach incorporated into what are tients want their physicians to be open zona, which offers a degree in alternative already effective curriculums,” she says. to different types of alternative medicine medicine, and Harvard are paying atten- For many people, spirituality comes to that are not taught in medical school.” tion to this,” she says. “Medical students the front burner when they have to deal With studies showing that one in three are asking for it and patients are asking with mortality issues, such as end of life. Americans use some form of alternative for it. People want their physicians to be “When things get beyond your ability medicine and don’t tell their primary open to different modalities of alterna- to control them, then you start looking physician for fear of being ostracized, tive medicine.” outside of yourself for something to fill there’s a clear communication gap. — John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A.

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 15 Happiness is Not

NormalBy John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A Psychology re you stressed? Burned year, $1.5 million grant to look at out? Well, for a cure, how weekend workshops for reducing professor has Aabout heading off to Tibet the impact of the negative thoughts for six months? Or perhaps a 10-day and feelings that can overwhelm new take on meditation retreat would do the addiction counselors who work trick? Well, maybe it would, but for with difficult clients. human existence most of us that’s just not possible. “If you are working with people “Most busy Western people need who are extremely dysfunctional, things that will make a difference in leading very destructive lives, any a matter of minutes and hours, not human being is going to start talk- weeks or months,” says University ing to himself about how unlikely it of Nevada psychology professor is that these folks are going to suc- Steven Hayes. “Meditation practices ceed,” Hayes says. “The next thing are helpful but they can take time. you know, you’re judging them and We’ve been able to develop some you’re stressed about work. It’s just related technologies that can a natural human process.” make a difference in just a day So how do you deal with these neg- or two.” ative thoughts? Hayes says a therapy Sound too good to be true? Hayes he developed called Acceptance Steven Hayes, who has doesn’t think so. He explains the and Commitment Training (ACT), developed a new branch system in a new, workbook-size along with expanding one’s aware- of psychology, was the paperback, Get Out of Your Mind and ness of people’s different cultural focus of an in-depth story Into Your Life: The New Acceptance backgrounds, is effective in teaching in the Feb. 13 edition of and Commitment Therapy. The book therapists to notice their negative Time magazine. and Hayes’ perspectives have been thoughts and feelings in a way that is receiving national media attention, similar to meditation. When that hap- including life coach Martha Beck’s pens, these negative experiences lose column in the February issue of O, their punch and begin to fall away. the Oprah Magazine. “It’s exciting,” Hayes says. “It’s The National Institute on Drug one of a family of therapies that Abuse awarded Hayes a three- are essentially trying to bring this

16 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 From Steve Hayes’ Get Out of Your Mind & Into Your Life

Human hidden secrets. We tend to put on shiny, keep as a pet. After playing with him for a suffering is happy faces, pretending that everything is while, you notice he is still mewing, non- universal okay, and that life is “all good.” But it isn’t stop, and you realize he must be hungry. Often many and it can’t be. To be human is to feel pain You feed him a bit of bloody, red ground people we meet in ways that are orders of magnitude more beef knowing that’s what tigers like to eat. in our daily pervasive than what the other creatures on You do this every day, and every day your lives seem to the planet Earth feel. pet tiger grows a little bigger. Over the have it all. They course of two years, your tiger’s daily meals seem happy. They look satisfied with their The shark tank polygraph change from hamburger scraps, to prime lives. You’ve probably had the experience Suppose you were sitting over a dunk rib, to entire sides of beef. Soon your little of walking down the street when you’re tank full of sharks while you were wired up pet no longer mews when hungry. Instead, having a particularly bad day, and you’ve to the world’s best tuned polygraph. You he growls ferociously at you whenever he looked around and thought, “Why can’t I have a very simple task: don’t get anxious thinks it’s mealtime. Your cute little pet has just be happy like everyone around me? at all. If you do, the seat will flip you over, turned into an uncontrollable, savage beast They don’t suffer form chronic panic (or and into the tank you’ll go. that will tear you apart if he doesn’t get depression, or a substance abuse problem). What do you think would happen? It what he wants. They don’t feel as if a dark cloud is always seems extremely likely you would be anx- Your struggle with your pain can be looming over their heads. They don’t suffer ious. This is exactly what happens during a compared to this imaginary pet tiger. Every the way I suffer. Why can’t I be like them?” panic attack: First you feel a twinge of anxi- time you empower your pain by feeding it Here’s the secret: They do and you are. ety, then you imagine the horrors that can the red meat of experiential avoidance, you We all have pain. All human beings, if they arrive, you react to those, and, in a matter help your pain-tiger grow a little bit larger live long enough, have felt or will feel the of seconds, boom. You’re in the shark tank. and a little bit stronger. Feeding it in this devastation of losing someone they love. manner seems like the prudent thing to do. Every single person has felt or will feel The Metaphor of the Hungry Tiger The pain-tiger growls ferociously telling physical pain. Everybody has felt sadness, Imagine you wake up one morning and you to feed it whatever it wants or it will eat shame, anxiety, fear, and loss. We all have just outside your front door you find an you. Yet, every time you feed it, you help memories that are embarrassing, hu- adorable tiger kitten mewing. Of course the pain to become stronger, more intimi- miliating, or shameful. We all carry painful you bring the cuddly little guy inside to dating, and more controlling of your life.

more constructive, more spiritual, starting to latch on to acceptance “There are stories about the Eastern-oriented sensibility into a and commitment therapy, in part unbelievably large numbers of Western science approach.” because of Hayes’ book, which people who have, say, been abused, Hayes says the therapies he teaches life-enhancing strategies or have an addiction problem, or developed at Nevada work well anyone can adopt. struggle with relationships, or have not just with therapist burnout but “We wanted to set it up so that a mental disorder, or who are just also with many other common people don’t necessarily have to stressed at work,” Hayes says. “To problems. go to an ACT therapist to see if see the truth of the claim I make “Worldwide, there have been this type of work might be helpful in my book, all you have to do is nearly 20 randomized trials to them,” Hayes says. “The book stop and say, ‘Hey, wait a minute. conducted on ACT in the last is structured so that you can What if we added up all of these five years, so we have evidence apply an ACT approach to most problems? How many people that these processes are helpful common problems, such as work would fail to be in one ‘abnormal’ for most kinds of problems you stress, obsessive thoughts, anxiety, grouping or another? When you can think of, from dealing with or depression.” craft the question properly the chronic diseases such as diabetes Hayes says stories about the answer hits you in the face: it is or epilepsy, to coping with chronic pervasiveness of psychological pain and struggle that is normal, pain and traditional mental health problems appear in the media all not happiness.” problems such as depression or the time, but he has a different substance abuse.” response from most people when John Wheeler ’86, ’87 M.A. is the senior The popular media are also he reads them. writer in the University’s Office of Marketing and Communications.

On the Web: http://www.acceptanceandcommitmenttherapy.com

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 17 The Judge’s Eyes Steven Kosach looks deeply into the character of those convicted in his courtroom before deciding their immediate future. By Mike Sion He’ll have read the report from the Department trange thing, he’s an optimist. Believer in of Parole and Probation, prepared by professional humanity’s basic goodness. Patron of the staff based on interviews with the subject and a second chance. background check. He’ll consider their recom- Washoe District Court Judge Steven R. mendation as far as a sentence. Many veteran SKosach (’67 political science) has a front-row seat judges simply follow the recommendation. Some- to bad behavior. Accused drug abusers and deal- times he doesn’t. ers, thugs and thieves, molesters, rapists, killers “[T]here still are human factors — something — they parade before him weekly and have since about the defendant’s demeanor, attitude,” he his 1990 election to the bench. Yet his reputation says. “If there’s an addiction, can the court help into his third six-year term is not of a by-the-book with diversion or drug court? Is there family sup- jurist who automatically imposes the sentence port? Was this out of character?” In his first year on the bench, Kosach faced a 19-year-old, Roberto Nerey, who’d pleaded

Photo by JeanPhotoby Dixon guilty to conspiracy to commit murder. Nerey was riding in a car fol- lowing rival gangbangers. A 15-year-old in the backseat cradling Nerey’s rifle opened fire, hitting an enemy in the head. Prosecutors wanted the six-year maximum. Ko- sach gazed at Nerey — a father, a community-col- lege student — and said two years. Go in like a man, come out a better man. Help your community. Nerey did. Now a criminal justice major at Nevada, he heads the nonprofit group Unlim- ited Intervention, which Steven R. Kosach has prosecutors seek. Nor does he suffer “black-robe attempts to steer youths away from gangs. been a district court judge in Reno since fever”: judicial hubris. “There was something about the eye-to-eye 1990 and a baseball fan After a guilty plea, Kosach, 60, tries to divine contact,” Kosach says. “I saw a decent kid who all his life. The hollow underlying truths. Dark eyes scrutinize the con- knew he’d screwed up. He was going to prison for ball on his bench holds vict for some sign to justify leniency. a good reason, but I didn’t throw away the key.” paper clips. “Ninety percent of the time, I know what sen- Retired District Court Judge Peter Breen (’60 tence I will impose,” he explains one afternoon in history), who served 32 years on the bench, says his chambers in the Washoe County Courthouse. he hears about Kosach from bailiffs, deputies,

18 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 lawyers, even drug offenders assigned for treat- downtown. On New ment. He says they talk about how Kosach has Year’s Eve, a young insight into people struggling after bad decisions. woman walked in “He’s willing to give people an opportunity to and bought a bottle of improve themselves.” tequila. That hopefulness hardly stems from ignorance “I carded her,” Ko- of the capacity for evil. The son of first-generation sach recalls. “It’s a good Photocourtesy Judgeof StevenKosach Slavic Americans, Kosach was raised with the way of meeting girls.” history of the bloody Balkans. Then came a tour The purchaser, Gail of duty in Vietnam. Elmore, a former stu- Kosach, who attended Nevada on a baseball dent at the University, scholarship and played on the 1965 conference was home from her championship team, was also in ROTC and caseworker job in Sen. shipped out to the war in June 1968 as a first lieuten- Paul Laxalt’s office. She ant with the Americal Division. He was the replace- wrote a check for the ment for none other than Lt. William Calley, head purchase. A half-hour of the 1st Platoon of Charlie Company, 11th Brigade, later she phoned to say which massacred hundreds of unarmed civilians in she’d accidentally writ- the village of My Lai in March 1968. After the story ten the check to Ben’s broke, Calley was court-martialed. It proved to be a Liquor instead of Paul’s. turning point in opposition to the war. Kosach told her she’d Kosach’s company was stationed along the have to come down and South China Sea and central highlands. Jungle give him a new check warfare; firefights almost daily. By October, the “or else I’ll have to eat commander killed, Kosach found himself in it.” She came down. He charge of 100 men, mostly blacks, Chicanos and asked her out. They married in June 1975. Kosach attended the University on a non-citizens serving to gain U.S. citizenship. After a stint as a deputy Reno city attorney, Ko- baseball scholarship “It was a day-in, day-out fight for survival. I sach went into private practice in 1976, specializing and was a member didn’t see any progress. All I saw was the poor in civil litigation. From 1986-88 he was managing of the ’65 conference Vietnamese people getting killed by North partner of a large firm, traveling and working long championship team. Vietnamese, Viet Cong or us. It was a year of hours. He was unhappy spending so much time survival.” away from his family. A judgeship seemed ideal, Kosach dug his own foxhole, walked point so in 1990 he decided to run for the Department with his M16. “I never asked any of my men to Eight seat on the Washoe District Court. do something I wouldn’t do myself.” He was The campaign was a family affair. wounded by sniper fire in the leg, grenade shrap- “All the kids pitched in,” Gail Kosach recalls. nel in the back. “The boys put up signs on the weekends. (Daugh- In July 1969 he left the war with the Bronze Star ter) Keri and I walked all the new precincts west for valor, two Purple Hearts and the Silver Star for of McCarran (Boulevard). We started campaign- heroism after pulling two wounded mates out of ing the minute it was allowed and didn’t stop a creek and then leading eight others to wipe out until the day of the election.” the attackers. Kosach says the types of young people he saw Kosach says he believed then in the American coming before him as a judge reminded him of cause in Vietnam. Not anymore. Talks should his unit in the military. have settled the conflict earlier, he says. The “I’d dealt with kids like [them]. Even now, I can civilized way. ask some kid a question, ‘Why did you rip the car While convalescing, he took the Law School Ad- off?’ or, ‘What did you beat your girlfriend’s door missions Test. Later he enrolled at the McGeorge down for?’ The same kind of thing that I would School of Law in Sacramento. have asked one of my troops,” he says. “When a “There was something in me that said, ‘I can do kid’s standing before me in chains, pleading guilty this and I can help people,’” he says of launching to destruction of his girlfriend’s property, I ask, ‘Is a career in law. “It sounds Pollyanna, but I still say it worth it? C’mon, man, you got to grow up.’” it: I’m probably a judge because I can help.” After 15 years on the bench, Kosach confesses After graduation Kosach became a prosecutor to acquiring some cynicism. There’s a flip side to in the Sacramento County District Attorney’s of- being willing to give people a second chance, he fice. He returned to Reno in 1974. While studying admits. He’s more prone to being conned. for the Nevada bar he worked at Paul’s Payless Liquor on Arlington Avenue and Second Street Continues next page

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 19 Photocourtesy Judgeof StevenKosach The News is Not Good Dwindling audiences and declining influence have traditional journalism worried. The future judge (left) with Lt. Terry Gallagher in Vietnam. A new grad program searches for solutions.

From page 19 By Brandon Stewart ’05 ensing it was losing readers to Web sites, blogs “Even if I order the most lenient of possible sentences and other manifestations of the Internet, the Los — giving a chance at redemption and rehabilitation — [I Angeles Times last June experimented with what it wonder if] this individual . . . [will] wind up back in front S called “wikitorials,” editorials written specifically for of me facing charges related to a similar, or worse, crime.” online consumption and with an interactive dimension. It happens. One time, a 38-year-old with numerous With a few mouse clicks and keystrokes (“Wiki” is Ha- felonies was out on bail for car burglary. The next month, he waiian for quick or fast) visitors to the Times’ site could and another man robbed a teenage couple at gunpoint at a comment on, add to, or even correct information in a park. The man out on bail drove off with the girl and raped wikitorial. The paper hoped the innovation would spark her. During his trial he told the jury the girl had “wanted a more participatory sort of journalism, which might, him.” During sentencing, the prosecutor brought forward in turn, strengthen the paper’s impact on the public another woman who testified he’d raped her. consciousness, maybe even restore journalism’s influence “When I gave him an opportunity to speak,” Kosach to bygone days. recalls, “he wouldn’t look at me. He mumbled something. It didn’t work. Three days after the wikitorials debuted I got up from the bench and walked down in front of him, the site was taken down because, as the paper reported, where he stood at the defense table, and asked him to repeat “a few readers were flooding the site with inappropriate his statement. material.” “‘It doesn’t matter,’ he said. I leaned on the table, glaring The wikitorial experiment stands as a prime example at his face — possessing authority to put him away for a of what has been vexing news organizations for some good, long time — so he could experience severe intimida- time: dwindling public influence (and profits) coupled tion. ‘I want you to feel what those girls felt,’ I said. Then I with confusion over whether to combat or enlist emerg- sentenced him to life without the possibility of parole. Some ing technologies to turn things around. people you just have to warehouse to protect society.” The Reynolds School of Journalism’s retooled graduate Kosach, who played minor-league baseball for the program, launching this August, aims to find and share Philadelphia Phillies’ affiliate in Bakersfield, Calif., before solutions. The intensive 10-month program, which will heading to Vietnam, sees baseball as a metaphor for civi- seek to enroll experienced journalists, will examine the lized society. Hard work, discipline, playing by the rules current and potential interplay between new media and — they’re rewarded in baseball, as they are in society. Or community decision making. Environmental affairs de- should be. And in both realms there are only so many outs. cision making will be the focus, at least to start. Course Even for an optimist. titles include Journalism and Public Judgment, Funda- mentals of Exploratory Journalism and Fundamentals of Freelance writer Mike Sion is a former editor of this magazine. Participatory Journalism.

20 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Cole Campbell (left), dean of the Reynolds School of

Photo by DavidPhotoby Calvert Journalism, and Larry Dailey, professor of media technologies, will begin leading seasoned journalists through the school’s retooled graduate program in August.

“Journalism needs to be re-conceptualized,” more participatory journalism as the wave of the says Cole Campbell, dean of the Reynolds School future. The journalism faculty member and Fred and former editor of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. “It W. Smith Professor of Critical Thinking and Ethical needs to harness the deluge of digital technology Practices likens the idea to eBay’s successful model and rediscover its role as a crucial contributor to of online auctions. On eBay, buyers and sellers com- democracy.” municate freely in an atmosphere of trust, brokering Donica Mensing, journalism professor and director deals in the millions of dollars. He envisions an of graduate studies, says the new graduate program, online news community in which readers can ask as well as some new undergraduate courses, will act reporters additional questions or contribute facts as a kind of “skunk works,” a place where seasoned and commentary to stories already published. The journalists can brainstorm new ways to gather and end product could be greater, more accurate cover- report news. The curriculum also will examine age of an issue. Lenert hopes that would lead to a emerging news conduits like The Daily Show with Jon more responsive public and a better society. Stewart. The satirical pseudo-news program on cable To illustrate what he means, Lenert says he felt TV’s Comedy Central has built a huge youth follow- baffled watching news coverage of the devastation ing, and studies indicate that for many in the viewing wrought by Hurricane Katrina. audience it’s their only source of news. “The journalists correctly stated in advance of the Another faculty member, Larry Dailey, associate Category 3 hurricane that if it hit New Orleans there professor and Reynolds Professor of Media Technol- would be very serious consequences. Everybody ogies, plans to teach a course titled “Game Theory knew that, but why didn’t anything happen?” and Journalism.” Many observers accused government officials “Game design, where you design an online game of negligence, and large numbers of people will around current events, is probably the most interac- always be apathetic to events any farther away than tive type of new journalism,” says Daily, a former their own backyard. But Lenert suspects something multimedia producer for MSNBC.com. “It allows deeper played a role: a “disconnect” between jour- people to explore the news rather than just read it.” nalistic activity and public action. The Reno Gazette-Journal used just such a device in If the public doesn’t understand the danger of a 2003 to help its readers understand the complexities problem, he says, journalists need to adapt and find of balancing Nevada’s budget. Requiring readers to new ways to get people to understand. appropriate funds to competing interests like educa- The question is how. tion and law enforcement gave them a new perspec- tive on the state’s economic realities. Brandon Stewart is a public relations specialist in the Wikitorials notwithstanding, Ed Lenert sees a Office of Marketing and Communications.

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 21 Surprise: stomachs have pacemakers 2006 Alumni Association t might not be the most fun thing to talk about, but disorders of the digestive tract Award Nominations are a major problem for millions around the Professional I Achievement Award world. In America, it’s estimated as many as 45 million — An alumnus/alumna Awards Nomination Form of the University with an Please include supporting material of no more people, about two-thirds women, suffer from than four pages with this form. irritable bowel syndrome — and that’s just one of outstanding record of the many gastrointestinal disorders that exist. career accomplishments. For more than 20 years, researchers at the Nominee’s Name University of Nevada have specialized in studying University Service the gastrointestinal tract and have made a num- Award — A friend or graduate who ber of important discoveries. The most recent has demonstrated finding, published last October in theProceedings dedication, commitment Nominee’s Phone of the National Academy of Sciences, builds on and service to the a key discovery University researchers made a University. decade ago. Graduation Year

“In the stomach, there is a pacemaking mecha- Alumni Association nism that coordinates contractions of the gastro- Service Award — A Suggested Award: (check one) intestinal tract,” says Sean Ward, a professor in friend or graduate who ❑ Professional Achievement Award the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology. has rendered special and ❑ University Service Award “In 1994, we were the first to demonstrate the outstanding service to ❑ Alumni Association Service Award importance of certain cells in the generation of the Alumni Association. ❑ Outstanding Young Alumnus Award pacemaking activity that regulates the contrac- ❑ tions of the muscles within the gut. Now, we Outstanding Young Alumnus of the Year have demonstrated that these specialized cells Alumnus Award Nominee’s Address have a role in gastric-muscle contraction that was — A graduate who is previously thought to be driven by the brain and not more than 15 years nervous system within the gut.” past graduation and has Ward explains that the pacemaking cells of the an outstanding record of gut wall work in a fashion similar to those in the career accomplishments, heart. and/or whose “The heart has a pacemaker region that coordi- dedication, commitment nates activity of the heart,” he says. “Similarly, the and service to the Your Name gut has specialized cells that coordinate the special- Alumni Association has ized motor activities of the gastrointestinal tract.” significantly enhanced Address This research is important because the Uni- alumni programming. versity’s team is trying to figure out the basis for a lot of the gastrointestinal disorders that exist, Alumnus of the including disorders associated with diabetes and Year — A graduate who those that afflict young children and elderly in- has rendered special and Telephone dividuals. The smooth-muscle research program outstanding service to at the University’s Department of Physiology and the University and by E-mail Cell Biology has achieved a worldwide reputation personal achievement and has been designated a prestigious center of has brought distinction excellence by the National Institutes of Health. to the University. Other researchers are now studying these spe- Please fill out the nomination form, along with no more than four pages of cialized pacemaking cells, which were discovered supporting material by May 15, 2006. Please mail to: by University researchers, and starting to realize the significant role they play in gastrointestinal alumni Association Awards disorders. Cells similar to the pacemaker cells in morrill Hall Alumni Center/164 university of Nevada, Reno the gastrointestinal tract are now recognized in reno, NV 89557 many organs in the body, such as the urinary and reproductive tracts and blood vessels. You can also nominate online at — John Wheeler ’86, ’87M.A. www.unr.edu/alumni/

22 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 From the director of alumni relations Alumni membership connects you with Nevada Dear Nevada Alumni and Friends,

hy am I a card-carrying member of the Nevada Alumni Association? The association Wanswer is not, as many of you may suspect, because I work at the University. inside I am a Lifetime Member of the Association because as w President’s Message an alumna, I have a passion for my alma mater and can w Alumni Chapter Updates personally help support programming for our constitu- ents as a dues-paying member. w Event Calendar The membership program is a critical piece of our w Membership News organization’s mission, which is “to foster and cultivate a common bond of pride, affinity and connection among w New Benefit Partner alumni, students, prospective students and friends of w Pack at Work the University of Nevada through quality programs, National Council of Juvenile services and events”. Membership dues help provide the and Family Court Judges ity of nevada financial assistance necessary to produce quality activi- w Class Chat ties and help alumni and friends stay connected to the rs University. In return for the generosity of our members, the Association has the ability to offer benefits and services from many campus, local and international partners. For example, our members can take advantage of free career services offered by the University’s Career Development Office, discounted unive vacation packages through RCI International, discounts at local restaurants, and

alumni much more. We realize one size does not fit all. That’s why we offer a variety of membership options, from Senior Annual Memberships to Lifetime Memberships. And with our Friend of the Association Memberships, you don’t even have to be an alumnus to join. In February, the Nevada Alumni Association launched a membership drive. I en- courage you to become a dues-paying member and take advantage of all our pro- gram has to offer. To learn more, please visit our website atwww.unr.edu/alumn i.

Sincerely,

Amy J. Carothers ’01 Director of Alumni Relations Association calls for more chatter! Tell us about your life achievements, reunions or any other notable news. E-mail your story and photos to [email protected] for Nevada Silver & Blue www.unr.edu/alumni Class Chat.

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 23 Alumni Council Board Members From the Nevada Alumni Council President Executive Committee Julie Ardito ’89 President Dear Nevada Alumni and Friends,

Mike Klaich ’82 he University of Nevada, Reno Alumni Association is a vibrant organization, Past President Tand I am excited and honored to be the 2006 Alumni Council president. Randy Brown ’89 My goal this year is to provide guidance and vision while re-energizing our Treasurer/President-Elect four task forces charged with overseeing the Association’s programming: Mem- bership and Marketing, Student Involvement, Volunteer Cindy Buchanan ’90 Involvement and Community Outreach. As we provide V.P. for Community Outreach these groups the support they need, our alumni base will be better served with strategically planned events, activi-

association Jim Conkey ’83 V.P. for Student Involvement ties and more ways to stay connected to their alma mater. January marked the first Alumni Council board meet- Mary Harmon ’93, ’97 ing of 2006. As the council embarked on a new year, the V.P. for Volunteer Involvement theme “Elevation Nevada — Taking it to the Top” seemed Carlos Ledon ’01 an appropriate direction for the council to continue the V.P. for Marketing and Membership momentum achieved over the past year and propel the Nevada Alumni Association forward in the coming months. Roberta Bibee ’83 Task forces identified goals for the upcoming year and discussed the best ways to Kelly Bland ’91 achieve these goals. We came out of the meeting with a plan to better serve the Todd Cabral ’91 University, the Nevada Alumni Association and our constituents. Jeff Champagne (ASUN President)

ity of nevada Finally, why am I a card-carrying member of the Nevada Alumni Association? Roger Deidrichsen ’71 The University of Nevada is a vital part of northern Nevada’s growing economy Mike Dillon ’94 rs and has played a significant role for me personally and professionally. Giving Dawn Etcheverry-Miller ’94 back to the institution through the Association’s membership program allows Jason Frierson ’96 me to support an organization that I’m deeply tied to. And what’s more, I receive Kerri Garcia ’92 discounted benefits and services at businesses I visit every day! I hope you will George Hardaway ’71 join me in 2006 as a member of the Nevada Alumni Association. Andrew Hillyer ’88 unive Lisa Lyons-Maloney ’88 Sincerely, alumni Patrick Martinez ’95 Caroline McIntosh ’94 Marlene Olsen ’74 Marcedes Parsons ’84 Michael Pennington ’95 Julie L. Ardito ’89 Marilyn Ryder ’66 President, Nevada Alumni Council Chris Vargas ’95 Charlie Walsh ’86 Leonard Wohletz ’98 Kiara Wolf ’92 Doug Byington ’55 Parlamentarian Jennifer Satre ’80 Chair, University of Nevada, Reno Foundation Board of Trustees Cary Groth Director, Intercollegiate Athletics

Staff Members John K. Carothers Juliane Di Meo Vice President, Development Alumni Program Manager & Alumni Relations Christy Jerz ’97 Amy Carothers ’01 Alumni Program Manager Director, Alumni Relations Hope Hepner Kristin Burgarello ’97 Administrative Assistant Alumni Program Manager

24 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 s Kate Hurst (’94 Health Science), John Miramontes (’93 Finance), Sandra Ginger (’87 Mathematics), Molly Miramontes, Paul Miramontes (‘92 Accounting, ‘01 Counseling & Educational Psychology) and Tami Miramontes (’94 Accounting) get ready to cheer the Pack to victory at an Alumni Association pregame party in

pdates Las Vegas.

Don Marchand s s and Tom Congressman Jim Gibbons and Washington D.C. Chapter alumni Allen of ESPN celebrate the publishing of former Congresswoman Barbara Vucanovich’s

U Radio stop by new book, Barbara F. Vucanovich: From Nevada to Congress, and Back Again the Alumni (University of Nevada Press). From left: Joseph Guild (’69 History), Ashley Association Carrigan (’99 International Affairs), Vicki Soberinsky (’91 International Affairs/ pregame Political Science), Mac Bybee (’99 Political Science), Barbara Vucanovich, party in Las Congressman Jim Gibbons (’67 Geology), Alexis Bayer (’03 International Vegas before Affairs), Ryan McGinness (’99 Political Science), Ronda Bybee (’95 Political the Nevada- Science), Marilee Joyce (’85 Journalism), John Lopez. UNLV basketball game on Nov. 26.

Alumni Band For updates or to participate in alumni chapters events, please visit Chapter www.unr.edu/alumni Contact: Kiara Wolf [email protected] everry) Miller at demiller@ [email protected]. A small but enthusias- washoe.k12.nv.us or Kiara com. International tic group turned out for Wolf. If you would like to be Tournament proceeds Chapter Homecoming 2005 and the added to the mailing list, will be used to support the Contact: Zaneta Janiczak [email protected] 9th Annual Alumni Band re- have a fabulous idea for Association’s 20/50 Looking When asked, internation- union. We participated in a the Alumni Band, or know to the Future program, al students most often say variety of events, including where to find lost alumni, which was established in they come to the University Pack the Little Wal’ Night, we would love to hear from celebration of the 20th of Nevada because a friend, the Nevada vs. Idaho Home- you as well. anniversary of COBAAA and relative or acquaintance coming football game and a 50th anniversary of COBA. hapter hapter recommended it to them. family pizza party. Program goals include COBAAA Chapter As alumni, you play an As we reminisced, we raising funds to support Contact: Russ Gardner important role in helping pondered many questions: [email protected] scholarships and student us spread the word that our Why don’t more Alumni All COBA alumni and organizations, remodel- University is a great place C Band members turn out supporters are invited to ing the college’s student to study, experience the for chapter events? What participate as players and lounge, helping the college United States, and grow changes can be made to sponsors in the 15th Annual prepare for future capital professionally. The OISS generate more attendance? COBAAA Golf Tournament improvement needs and assists with international re- What kind of communication — COBAAA’s largest fund- establishing a COBA Career cruitment and admissions, works best? And whatever raiser of the year — on May Services Center. For infor- so please direct interested happened to Mike Gibbel? 4, 2006, at Lakeridge Golf mation on how you can be students to our Web site at If you know the answers Course. For more tourna- part of the 20/50 campaign, www.unr.edu/oiss or to our to any of these questions, ment information, please please contact Nick Butler please contact Dawn (Etch- contact Ro Lazzarone at at (775) 688-6650. Continues next page

Nevada Nevada Silver Silver & & Blue Blue • • Spring Spring 2006 2006 25 25 s USAC members and officers enjoy a day in the association sun at SBC Park in San Francisco. First row, from left: Amelia Christian, Jonathan Buescher, Bradley Shochat, Pamela Sinclair. Second row: Stacy Kinion, Brenna Bynum, Jake Vela, Kayla Bilher. Third row: Taso Dimitriadis, Marika

ity of nevada Dimitriadis (’02 Spanish/ International Affairs, ’05 rs Political Science). unive alumni

coordinator of international grams, you should consider Nevada Alumni Cheerleaders Contact: Andres Leon • [email protected] admissions, Zaneta Janiczak. the University Club. Remem- Nevada Alumni Cheerleaders pose for a photo during their The chapter is open to all with ber, you do not have to be an Homecoming reunion Oct. 8. Top row, from left: Tammy an interest in connecting to alumnus. Any friend of the (Horst) Miceli, Lisa Lyons Maloney (’88 Medical Technology, ’97 an international community in University is eligible for mem- Medicine), Nic Conroy (’03 Criminal Justice), Terry Ferrar, Eric Nevada, in the United States bership. We meet the third Lahmn, Chris Gunckle. Bottom Row, from left: Nikki Singler, and abroad. Please join online Wednesday of the month with Nicole Shimabuku (’03 Psychology), Travis Weise, Katrina on the Nevada Alumni As- the exception of the July and Carlsson, Kelly Sims, Becky Quigley, Jessica Slatin, Nicole Tyler, sociation Web site! December meetings, which Jenny Sanger (’05 Nursing), Andres Leon (’05 General Studies) In addition, please note that are on the second Wednesday. there are many Nev. alumni in No meeting is held in August. fall included the organization semester kickoff Feb. 4. If you Turkey. The Office of Interna- Dues are $25 per couple and of the World Market Interna- would like to be a part of the pdates tional Students & Scholars and $15 for individuals. For more tional Potluck in November, USAC Alumni Club or would International Alumni Chapter information, please contact which showcased cuisine, like more information about

U encourage you to update your Kristin Burgarello with the coffee, crafts, and clubs from our association, please don’t information on the alumni Nevada Alumni Association at around the world. USAC alum- hesitate to contact us at (775) Web site and assist us in pro- [email protected] or (775) ni volunteered as discussion- 784-6569 or [email protected]. moting our university to high- 784-6620. group leaders at the annual quality students in Turkey. USAC orientation for spring Washington D.C. USAC Alumni Chapter semester students. USAC also Contact: Marika Dimitriadis hosted the Belly Delights, Chapter University Club Contact: Ronda Bybee Contact: Larry Kirk [email protected] which included international [email protected] The University Studies [email protected] dessert tasting and belly Washington D.C. Chapter The University Club is look- Abroad Consortium Alumni dancing lessons for all. USAC ing for new members. If you Association anticipates alumni enjoyed a fun year in has held two recent events 2005 cheering on the Pack hapter hapter would like to meet nice people that spring 2006 will offer an at the Rink on the River in and enjoy good fellowship, event calendar as full as fall men’s basketball team at downtown Reno, including a Crystal City Sports Pub in C food and stimulating pro- 2005. The final events of the

2626 NevadaNevada SilverSilver && BlueBlue •• SpringSpring 20062006 ATTEND AN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EVENT!

MARCH 22 Alumni Council meeting, 8:30 a.m. 1 Fallon Chapter meeting, noon. MAY 1 YAC meeting, 6 p.m. 3 Fallon Chapter meeting, noon. 8 CABNR meeting, 5:30 p.m. 3 YAC meeting, 6 p.m. 9 Alumni Council Executive Committee meeting, 11:45 a.m., Morrill Hall. 4 COBAAA Golf Tournament, Lakeridge Golf Course. 14 COBAAA meeting, 8 a.m. 4 Graduation Celebration, 11:30 a.m., Quad 14 sacramento Chapter meeting, noon 6 College of Education Golf Tournament, 15 University Club lunch meeting, 11:30 a.m. lakeridge Golf Course 16 Homecoming Committee meeting, 12 p.m., 9 COBAAA meeting, 8 a.m. Morrill Hall, Prupas Room sacramento Chapter meeting, noon 17 university Club board meeting, 11:30 a.m. s 10 Friends & Alumni of CABNR meeting, 5:30 p.m. Thomas Kerns (’87 11 Alumni Council Executive Committee meeting, Management), Bob APRIL 11:45 a.m., Morrill Hall Taelour, Russ Gardner 5 Fallon Chapter meeting, noon. (’90 Journalism, 17 university Club lunch meeting, 11:30 a.m. 5 YAC meeting, 6 p.m. ’96 Business 18 Homecoming Committee meeting, noon. Administration), Larry 11 COBAAA meeting, 8 a.m. morrill Hall, Prupas Room Johnson, Stan Peck, Tom Taelour, Lance 11 sacramento Chapter meeting, noon 19 university Club Board meeting, 11:30 a.m. s Van Lydegraf (’69 Prelegal) relax at the 12 Friends & Alumni of CABNR meeting, 5:30 p.m. 19 Golden Reunion dinner program, 6 p.m. Brenda Pesek (‘93 Criminal JTSU Auditorium Alumni Association 14 Young Alumni Chapter BeerFest, 6 p.m., Justice), Eric Videau (‘01 pregame party at JT General Studies) and eldorado Hotel Casino 20 Golden Reunion Breakfast & Class Photo, Schmid’s in Anaheim 8:30 a.m. Morrill Hall Alumni Center Stephanie Pesek (‘97 Animal prior to the Wooden 19 university Club dinner meeting, 6 p.m. Science) enjoy some vino Classic. 20 spring Commencement, 10:30 a.m., Quad at the Southern Nevada 20 Homecoming Committee meeting, noon, Chapter’s Wine Tasting morrill Hall, Prupas Room 20 Washington D.C. Chapter Family Picnic, Washington D.C. Event on Jan. 19 at the Bleu 21 university Club Board meeting, 11:30 a.m. Gourmet in Summerlin.

Arlington, Va. (now affection- Pack is on national television. outgoing president, Stepha- ately dubbed “Lawlor East”), For information on the D.C. nie Clemo, for all of her hard rooting for the Washington Chapter and to sign up for work in 2005. On Jan. 1, we Nationals in their inaugural event emails, contact Ronda began implementing a $5 season, spending an evening Bybee. annual membership fee, with former Congresswoman which will be used to help Barbara Vucanovich to cel- Young Alumni us keep better track of ebrate the publication of her our database and ensure new book, and celebrating Chapter we’re getting more Contact: Ro Lazzarone Nevada Day at a reception [email protected] alumni involved. Mem- hosted by the Nevada State In December, the Young bers will also receive $5 Society. Heartfelt thanks Alumni Chapter packed a off all events that we sponsor, go out to the officers of the bus and headed out of town so membership will more than society for including Nevada for our annual Mystery Bus pay for itself. If you’re interest- Recent alumnus Murat alumni in their events. Dinner. This year’s trip took ed in joining, please contact Aybek promotes the More events are planned for us to Walley’s Hot Springs for Ro Lazzarone. And be on the benefits of studying at the University of 2006, including a family picnic dinner and the Old Genoa Bar lookout for information about in Washington, D.C. on May 20 BeerFest 2006, Friday, April 14 Nevada at an education for drinks. A number of new fair in his home city of and the annual baseball out- members attended, which at the Eldorado. It’s sure to be ing on Sept. 16. Area alumni the best BeerFest ever. Istanbul, Turkey. made the event even more From left, Aybek (’05 are also encouraged to gather fun. Special thanks to our International Affairs); at “Lawlor East” any time the Susan Bender, director, Office of International Students & Scholars To find out about theN evada Alumni Association’s (’03 Political Science); Burcu Gokgoz, local volunteer and next pre-game party, visit www.unr.edu/alumni! interpreter.

NevadaNevada SilverSilver && BlueBlue •• SpringSpring 20062006 2727 membership news From the Nevada Alumni Marketing & membership task force Dear Alumni and Friends,

’m the new chair of the Membership and Marketing Committee. IAs a student I served as president of the Associated Students of the University of Nevada (ASUN) and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. I am a Lifetime Member of the Nevada Alumni Association and currently serve on the Alumni Council. Why am I a card-carrying member of the Nevada Alumni As- sociation? I have a very strong connection to the University of Current Membership Nevada and enjoy giving back. Recently my wife and I decided to Lifetime Members: 133 upgrade our membership to a Joint Lifetime mem- association Annual Members: 738 bership. The new payment options make it easier for all alumni to make the same commitment. unive Join me as a member of the Nevada Alumni rsity of nevada Association today! alumni Sincerely, association CARLOS LEDON 006852346

ity of nevada Lifetime Member Carlos Ledon ’01 rs Vice President for Membership and Marketing University of Nevada Alumni Association • (775) 784-6620 • (888) NV-ALUMS www.unr.edu/alumni unive www.unr.edu/alumni alumni Check Out Our New Member Benefit Partner! Need a vacation?

Your Nevada Alumni Association can help. Check out our new partner, University Alumni Travel Benefits. Indulge in a daydream - search the online database for rental specials starting from $349 a week! Travel to wonderful destinations all over the world, and save money, too! And, in addition to enjoying great savings, every reservation you make helps support your Nevada Alumni Association. Call (888) 729-3842 or visit www.alumnitravelbenefits.com/unr — Code: NA V-002

28 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 benefits for card-carrying members Show your Pack Pride and start 10 Reasons to Join the saving when you join today! Discounts are offered for the Nevada Alumni Association following:

On Campus Today! • ASUN Bookstore 10. Silver and Blue Pride • Alumni Association Events Membership is the perfect way to support alumni programs that help bring alumni, friends, students and faculty together to build a stronger university. Recreation, Dining, and Travel university of nevada • NEW! Vino 100 • NEW! University Alumni Travel Benefits 9. Hobnob with the University President • Dinners Ready! alumni Members receive invitations and discounts to select University events and pro • Nevada Museum of Art grams such as pregame parties for athletic events and the Homecoming Gala. - association • J.J.’s Pie Co. CARLOS LEDON • Wild Island Family Adventure Park 006852346 8. Cheers to You! • Cactus Creek Bar & Grille in the Bonanza Lifetime Member Free pitcher of beer with the purchase of a large pizza at Pub ‘N’ Sub. Enjoy big Casino savings with many other local and nationwide businesses. • Bicycle Warehouse University of Nevada Alumni Association • (775) 784-6620 • (888) NV-ALUMS • Eclipse Running www.unr.edu/alumni • Double Diamond Athletic Club 7. Are You A Smarty Pants? • National Automobile Museum, The Harrah Choose your own adventure and continue to learn through Pack Tracks Travel and Collection Alumni College. • Whitehall Lane Winery • Pub ‘N’ Sub • Whispering Vine Wine Company 6. Show Me The Money! Take advantage of free career services so you can earn more money to put in a • La Quinta Inn and La Quinta Inn & Suites new Sierra Pacific Federal Credit Union savings account. • Enterprise Rent-A-Car But wait! There’s more! 5. Can’t Let Go? This is just a partial list of our Benefit To stay connected with fellow alumni, log on to our alumni directory or get in Partners. For a complete list of partners volved with one of our volunteer committees. - and discounts offered, please visit our Web site: www.unr.edu/alumni 4. YAC it Up at Beerfest The Young Alumni Chapter (YAC) is just one of more than 20 regional, special inter Where do our est and college chapters supported by the Nevada Alumni Association. - alumni reside?

15% Other 3. We’ve Got Your Back Southern States With GEICO auto insurance, AIA Grad Med health insurance and Nelnet student California loan consolidation. 4% 65% Northern Nevada 2. Put it on My Card We now offer Lifetime Memberships on a three-year payment plan.

8% Southern 1. Finally Recoup Money You Spent at the Bookstore Nevada Save 10% on all apparel in the ASUN Bookstore. Northern 8% California

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 29 AlumniNews

John Cantlon (’47 Biol- Class Chat ogy) entered the Univer- Elmer Isaac (’39 Elec- sity in 1939 and left at the trical Engineering) was end of his junior year to employed by Pacific Gas spend four years as a na- and Electric Company in val aviator in World War II. San Francisco, Calif., for John returned to gradu- 40 years. He retired in ate from the University 1979 as the superinten- in 1947 and later earned dent of five construction his Ph.D. at Rutgers. He departments. Elmer is was a faculty member married with five chil- at George Washington dren, 12 grandchildren University and senior and 12 great-grandchil- ecologist at Boston Uni- dren. He turned 92 in versity. Eventually John February 2006. went to Michigan State University, where he Mary (Higgins) Reed became vice president (’42 English) is coordinat- of research and graduate ing a Writing for Fun studies before retiring class at Highland Senior in 1990. John married Center in Highland, during WWII and had Calif., and contributes to four children, the oldest a weekly column in the of whom was killed in Highland News. Mary has action during Vietnam. been the organist at her John now has seven local church since the grandchildren. Last sum- mid-1960s and continues mer John celebrated his to enjoy friendships with family reunion in Sparks. many of the members. Genevieve (Swick) James Warriner Paroni (’48 Chemistry) (’43 Arts & Science) is and her husband, Walter, 86 years old and still have started two scholar- enjoying life. He has 12 ships at the high school great-grandchildren and where Genevieve taught a nice relationship with science for many years. 83-year-old Ruth (Mary) These scholarships help Noble Wattles (’44 give one boy and one girl Home Economics). from the high school a college education each Marian LaVoy (’44 Life year. Scholarship criteria Diploma, ’71 English) has include excellence in retired after 16 years on studies and plans to ma- the University’s Friends jor in science, engineer- of the Library Board. ing or medicine. She still volunteers each week at the Book Nook. Jean Hagenbuch- Marian is the secretary Ellis (’50 Psychology) has in the Reno Rose Society been volunteering for and is active in the her local women’s jail, Nevada Military Officers’ taking inmates out and Wives Club & Chapter helping supervise as the T-PEO. She is also writing inmates do volunteer the memoirs of her Elko work within the com- County pioneer grand- munity. In addition, Jean parents. is the personnel director for a regional nonprofit mental hygiene board.

30 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Headquartered on the University campus, this independent organization provides training, technical assistance and research for those judges, administrators and other professionals involved in our nation’s court systems. University alumni working at the National Council and furthering this mission are:

Front row, from left: David J. Gamble (‘91 Educational Specialist, Ed.S.) , Sophie Gatowski (‘99 Social Psychology, Ph.D.) Mary (Volpa) Mentaberry (‘70 English), Amy Pincolini-Ford (‘97 English), Tourine Johnstone (‘02 Criminal Justice), Jennifer Emerson (‘05 General Studies). Back row, from left: Joey Orduna (‘97 Political Science), Deanna Lyons (‘85 Business Administration), Shirley Dobbin (‘99 Social Psychology , Ph.D.), Jill D. Comcowich (‘89 Journalism), Dorothy Hall (‘77 Education), Cindy Davis (‘93 Business), Iris Key (‘91 Criminal Justice), Carol Guarino (‘91 Business Administration), Danny Nguyen (‘04 Marketing), Jackie Ruffin (‘93 Journalism), Sherrie Riley (‘80 Arts and Science). Not pictured: Sue Dansie (‘95 Counseling and Educational Psychology, M.A.), Kim Taitano (‘91 Social Work, M.A.), Ruby White-Starr (‘98 Speech Communication), Julie Wise (‘99 Criminal Justice).

Warren Welsh (’50 Eppie Johnson (’51 prestigious Ellis Island to celebrate the 100th Animal Science) worked Business) was given a Medal of Honor. The birthday of St. Thomas with Rutgers Extension Lifetime Achievement National Ethnic Coalition Cathedral. Thomasine’s from March 1950 until Award by the California of Organizations presents great uncle, Thomas Tur- April 1985. During his Restaurant Association’s this award to Americans man, built the church and time he had much to do Sacramento Chapter in of diverse origins for their resides there as dean. with the Sussex County October 2005. The award outstanding contribu- Farm & Horse Show, now recognized Eppie’s con- tions to their own ethnic Katherine (Meyer) the New Jersey State Fair. tribution of more than 40 groups and to American Nye (’53 Education, ’99 The event has steadily years in the food-service society. Eppie is also the Applied Music) taught grown in popularity industry, which included founder of Eppie’s Great music and strings to through the years with building his own restau- Race, the world’s oldest Washoe County School approximately 200,000 rant and serving as the triathlon. District elementary people attending the 10- president and director of students for 31 years. She day event in August 2005. the California Restaurant Thomasine (Kurtis) received her bachelor’s Association. In May 2005, Spore (’52 Arts & Science) degree in 1953, a Master Eppie was presented the will be in Reno in 2007 Continues next page

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 31 AlumniNews

of Elementary Education a book of memoirs of the Robert Fregoso has served as a member from Brigham Young Fletcher School of Law (’72 Criminal Justice, of the board of trustees University in 1980, and and Diplomacy’s Class ’77 Criminal Justice, ’84 of Lewis and Clark Col- an additional bachelor’s of 1965. Black Rock Press Spanish) has retired from lege in Portland, Oregon, in applied music from has published the book, law enforcement after since 1989. Christopher the University in 1999. titled In the Shadow of working part time at the and his wife, Mardra, During her time with the Camelot. Larry attended FBI Academy in Quantico, have three children and school district, Katherine Fletcher on a Woodrow Va., as a role player.Robert have homes in Anchor- taught the Suzuki Strings Wilson Fellowship he and his wife, Charlotte, age, Alaska, and La Pilot Program and was earned while a student live in Spotsylvania, Va. Quinta, Calif. honored with the Mr. at the University. They enjoy traveling and Holland Award. She also took a cruise to the East- Scottie (Turner) William G. Cobb taught private violin John Spann (’68 Po- ern Caribbean in October Marable (’75 Merchan- (’71 Economics) lessons for several years litical Science) is pleased 2005. dising) is co-owner of after retirement and has to announce that his Pinnacle Marketing Inc., directed her church choir daughter, Jennifer Rayona Sharpnack which just celebrated its for many years. Kather- Spann, recently gradu- (’73 Physical Education) is 20-year anniversary. She ine enjoys spending time ated from the University a contributing author to is Washington state chair with her five children, 12 with a degree in nutri- the new book Enlight- of NFIB, a national small grandchildren, and two tion (dietetics). ened Power: How Women business advocacy orga- great-grandchildren. Are Transforming the nization, and was chosen William G. Cobb Practice of Leadership. by her peers as the Joanne F. (Ortiz) (’71 Economics) had first-ever recipient of the Petre (’57 French) has his article “Defending Rich Trachok (’74 Small Business Champi- retired from her teaching the Informed Consent Plant Science) won the on award in Washington career. She continues Case” published in the Gary Nolan Triathlete for her service on behalf to substitute teach and Defense Counsel Journal, of the Year award for of small businesses. enjoys spending time the law review of the 2005 of the Reno area’s Stan Goodin with her two grown International Associa- Triathlete Club. The Robert Pease (’76 (’71 Marketing) sons, Vinton Bryan tion of Defense Counsel. award is given to the lo- Geology, ’79 Geology) Burkholder and Michael The article addresses cal triathlete who brings is the chief geologist for Petre. Joanne also enjoys issues facing attorneys dignity, respect, integrity Idaho-Maryland Mining European travel. defending a health care and excellence to the Corp. in Grass Valley, provider in a malpractice sport of triathlon. Calif. The company is James Lansford (’59 action. Cobb is senior currently in the explora- Business) is enjoying re- partner of the law firm Roger Wolf (’74 tion and mine design tirement from his career of Erickson, Thorpe & Physical Education) at- phase. Robert lives in as an auditor in the State Swainston Ltd. tended New York Life’s Grass Valley with his wife, Insurance System. 2005 Chairman’s Council Nancy (Foster) Pease (’78 Stan Goodin (’71 Mar- meeting in West Vir- Earth Science), and their David Longacre (’62 keting) attended New ginia. Chairman’s Council 9-year-old twins. Management) is happily York Life’s 2005 Chair- agents rank in the top retired and living in San man’s Council meeting in 4 percent of New York Mary Anderson (’77 Rayona Sharpnack Francisco. West Virginia. Chairman’s Life’s sales force of more Medicine) accepted (’73 Physical Education) Council agents rank in than 10,000 agents. the position of Washoe Bob Backus, M.D. the top 4 percent of New Wolf also qualified for County District Health (’63 Political Science), is York Life’s sales force of the Chairman’s Cabinet, Officer. Anderson retired a family physician with a over 10,000 agents. which represents the from her position with full-time practice in rural top 50 agents of the the U.S. Navy as com- Vermont. He devotes George Hardaway company. manding officer of the one month each year to (’71 Physical Education) Naval Aerospace Medical volunteer work in the is assistant principal of Christopher Jay Research Laboratory Brazilian Amazon. Bob Reed High School in the (’75 Political Science) early in 2004. considers himself blessed Washoe County School celebrated his 30th year to be alive and well with a District. He is an active with Merrill Lynch & Co. Kathie Hoxsie (’82 wonderful family and to member of the alumni in December. Christo- M.A. Journalism) and her be doing what he loves. council and enjoys giv- pher has been featured recently retired husband, Roger Wolf ing time to the commu- over the years in national Joe, have taken their (’74 Physical Education) Larry Struve (’64 Po- nity through volunteer- industry magazines as an small travel trailer on the litical Science) has edited ing and mentoring. outstanding broker. He Continues on page 34

32 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006

AlumniNews

road full time. They are Michele Lowney (’86 Randy J. Brown, CPA Ginger (Graves) now “live-ons” for San Food & Nutrition) is em- (’89 Accounting), was Kuykendall (’92 Criminal Diego County parks. ployed by Sun Microsys- elected chairman of Justice), her husband, They sold their Tahoe tems in the Accessibility the Board of Trustees of Kenny, and son, Caden, residence that was Joe’s Office making software the Children’s Cabinet. are pleased to announce home for 50 years and work for disabled peo- The Children’s Cabinet the birth of Zane River Kathie’s for 30. ple. Her position takes is a community-based Kuykendall on Sept. 9, her to far-off places like program aimed at ensur- 2004. The family has pur- Greg Bortolin (’86 Paris and Brussels. For ing that every child and chased property in Mon- Journalism) was named vacations, however, she family has the services trêux and plans to move communications direc- prefers to spend time at and resources to meet back to Reno within the tor for the Jim Gibson for home in the Colorado fundamental develop- next two years. Mary Anderson (’77 Governor campaign in mountains. ment, care and learning Medicine) September after serving needs. Melissa (Hahn) Krall as director of com- Brian Sandoval (’86 (’92 Social Work) was munications and press Foreign Affairs) has been Pamela Fortner (’90 recently promoted to secretary for Gov. Kenny confirmed by the Senate Journalism) has been director of community Guinn the past four as a federal judge. writing a weekly column outreach for the Regional years. Candace Bortolin and monthly special Emergency Medical Ser- (’84 Social Work) joined Nick Brunson (’88 feature article for her local vices Authority (REMSA) the School of Social Work Business Management) newspaper, The Union, in in the Reno area. In her in June. Last fall Greg and has joined Ferrari-Lund Grass Valley, Calif., for the new position, she will be Candace’s son, Nicholas, Real Estate. Nick has past four years. She also became a third-genera- more than 15 years of writes book reviews for a tion Bortolin to attend real estate and market- bimonthly national mag- the University. Nic, a ing experience. He azine, Women’s Touch. music-education major, specializes in selling Nick Brunson (’88 Busi- is in the Pride of the homes, custom lots and Darin Lynch (’90 Biol- ness Management) Sierra Marching Band, investment properties, ogy) and his wife, Crystal, the Wind Ensemble and representing both buy- welcomed a son, Bryce s Jazz Lab. ers and sellers. Thomas Lynch, on Aug. 2, 2005.

Class of 1956, it’s your Golden Reunion!

Gail (Altenburg) Trounday ’56, JoAnn (Foster) Elston ’56,

Paula Gray (Lyons) Rigdon ’56 and Jim Wright ’56 – members of the Golden Reunion Committee – ask you to

mark your calendar for Friday, May 19th, and Saturday, May 20th, for a weekend of reunion festivities.

For more information or to be a part of the reunion committee, contact the Nevada Alumni Association

at (888) NV ALUMS or [email protected].

We hope to see you in May!

34 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 AlumniNews

responsible for coordi- lations with her husband, John is a controller for nating the preventable Kurt, and is the mother of Wells Cargo Construction injury program for the 3-year-old Jace. and coaches soccer at community. the downtown Las Vegas Clinton Crookshanks Soccer Club. Tamara is Pete Krall (’92 Journal- (’93 Mechanical Engi- a partner with Kafoury, ism, Criminal Justice) neering) and his wife, Armstrong & Co. CPAs. recently made detective Kristen (Shields) Crook- John and Tamara just with the Sparks Police shanks (’92 Geography), celebrated 10 years of Department. are pleased to announce marital bliss. the birth of a daughter, Raquib U. Khan, Ph.D. Taryn Syd Crookshanks, Sylvia Ontaneda- (’92 Mechanical Engi- on Aug. 4, 2005. Bernales (’93 Journal- neering), has recently ism/Social Psychology, ’97 been inducted into the Amy Gelber (’93 Journalism) has moved to Seagate Technology Business Administra- Maryland after spending Hall of Fame for the third tion/Textile and Apparel four years in Washing- Brian, recently celebrated Sage, Clinton time. Each time a Seagate Merchandising) and her ton, D.C., pursuing a law the birth of their third (’93 Mechanical employee accumulates husband, Phil, are proud degree. She now makes child, Chase Robert Engineering), Taryn and 10 patents the employee to announce the birth her home in Baltimore Vaughan, on May 10, Kristen Crookshanks is eligible for induction. of their first child, Claire and works downtown as 2005. She is the public (’92 Geography) He now holds 33 U.S. pat- Ruby, on May 11. Amy a staff attorney for Ober- relations director for ents. Khan has worked earned her master’s in Kaler, handling construc- the College of Fine as a scientist for Seagate education at DePaul tion law and litigation. Arts & Performing Arts Technology since 1993, University and loves She also assists with Center at the University and his formulated lubri- teaching the third grade. health issues and with of Nevada, Las Vegas. cants are in hundreds of Phil is the vice president immigration and natu- She would love to hear millions of hard drives all of product development ralization matters. Two of from any old friends. Her over the world. at WMS Gaming. Sylvia’s children – C. Sean email address is: jennifer. Savoy (’01 Spanish) and [email protected]. Kelly Wolf (’92 Music Neal Hyman (’93 S. Jamila Savoy (’00 Art) Education) and Kiara Criminal Justice) and – are University of Nevada Peter Gustafson Donohue Wolf (’92 Julie Mayer-Hyman graduates. Sean is a Reno (’95 Master of Business Music, ’97 Elementary (’97 Health Science) an- resident. Jamila currently Administration, ’91 Education) are proud nounced the birth of their resides in Lima, Peru, with Management) is living in to announce the of- second daughter, Ava her Peruvian-born hus- Nashville, Tenn., with his ficial addition of their Marie Hyman, on Nov. 14, band, Alfonso Seoane. wife, Kristin. He is working daughter, Karissa Alexis 2004. Sophia Marie Hy- for the State of Tennessee Wolf. Karissa and her big man, their first daughter, Sharon Byram (’94 in the Department of Hu- sister, Karina, cheered was born Sept. 20, 2002. Business Administration) man Services as informa- on the Wolf Pack at Neal, Julie, Sophia and is currently attending the tion systems manager. Homecoming 2005 and Ava have lived in Hen- William S. Boyd School both girls proudly wear derson, Nev., for six years. of Law in Las Vegas. She Golden Reunion! Daniele (Woodward) their Nevada Blue all Neal is a lawyer with his expects to graduate in Espinosa (’96 Psycholo- over Las Vegas. Kelly is own firm, The Law Of- May 2006. gy) and Shawn Espinosa currently the controller at fices of Neal Hyman, and (’95 Resource Manage- the Golden Gate Hotel & Julie is a full-time mother, Katie Meier-Hurst ment) are pleased to an- Casino, and Kiara teaches fitness presenter for (’94 Health Science) nounce the birth of their fifth grade for the Clark Powder Blue Productions is practicing physical son, Joseph Woodward County School District. (Turbo Kick) and aerobics therapy in Las Vegas. She Espinosa, in May 2005. instructor for 24-Hour Fit- and her husband, Larry Robyn Campbell- ness Clubs and Las Vegas Hurst (’90 Prephysi- David Margolis (’96 Ouchida (’93 Journalism) Athletic Clubs. cal Therapy), have two Counseling & Education- was recently named daughters, Lauren, 6, and al Psychology) and his editor of the University John Miramontes Erin, 3, and are expecting wife, Diane, are relocat- of Nevada, Las Vegas’ (’93 Finance) and Tamara their third child in May. ing to Illinois. William F. Harrah College (Brundin) Miramontes of Hotel Administration’s (’94 Accounting) keep Jennifer (McCooey) magazine, Premier. She busy with their two sons, Vaughan (’95 Journal- owns All Write Public Re- Jack, 6, and Daniel, 3. ism) and her husband, Continues next page

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 35 AlumniNews

Nicole Moschetti Michael Anderson and her husband, Ryan Vance (’96 Finance) (’99 Electrical Engi- Paul (’96 Political joined the Reno office of neering, ’03 Business Science), are pleased Hale Lane. Prior to law Administration) and to announce the birth school, Vance served as Holly Hamperle (’03 of their son, Braedan an extern to Sen. Harry Nursing) were married Burroughs Paul. Braedan Reid in Washington. in Lake Tahoe on July 23, was born Aug. 29, 2005, 2005. Mike is currently and he joins his two Randy Barnes a business turnaround older brothers, Ethan and (’97 Premedical, ’03 professional and teaches Dillan. Medicine) is employed s business classes at the Patricia Hescock (’98 at UCSF–Fresno as a University. Holly works Kristen (Durrwa- Spanish, Speech Com- Nicole Moschetti resident physician in as an emergency and chter) Vuckovic (’00 munications) resigned Vance (’96 Finance) emergency medicine. trauma nurse at Washoe Elementary Educa- her position with Johnson Medical Center. They tion/Special Education) & Johnson the day before Kirsta (Craig) are preparing for a long, and Chris Vuckovic (’00 her 29th birthday to Houchin (’97 Animal wonderful life together. Political Science) were travel the world for a year. Science) and Brian married in 2000 and She’s enjoyed adventures Houchin were married Joe Cap (’99 Health have one child, Sloane in Argentina, Uruguay, Oct. 8, 2005, in Spokane Education) is a biol- Elizabeth Vuckovic, born Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Washington, where the ogy teacher and head in 2005. Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, couple reside. Kirsta and wrestling coach at Sierra Turkey, Jordan and Syria. Brian met at the Spokane Vista High School in Clark Rajan Zed (’01 MBA) She dined with the Syrian County Jail, where Kirsta County, Nev., Joe re- has been selected ambassador at his home, has been employed for ceived his M.S. in exercise International Professional missed an Al-Qaeda five years as a sheriff’s physiology and M.Ed. of the Year for 2005 by rocket attack by hours technician. Brian is a in secondary education International Biographi- Nicole (Germain) at the port of Aqaba, bondsman for All City from the University of cal Centre of England. Drake (’98 Elementary Jordan, and trekked the Bail Bonds. Nevada, Las Vegas. Education) and Billy Himalayas amid Maoist Nicole Baldassaro Drake (’98 Business Ad- rebel activity. She also Dennis Clare (’98 Tara (Faber) Wein- (’03 Journalism) was hired ministration, Logistics) came into contact with Metallurgical Engineer- berg (’99 Journalism) at Blanchard Schaefer other alumni, including ing, ’00 M.S. Metallurgical married Marty Weinberg Advertising & Public Cindy Lehmann (’99 Engineering) and Shelley on Oct. 30, 2005. They Relations as account Journalism), who was in Carolan were married make their home in Las coordinator. Baldassaro Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Oct. 9, 2005, in Summit, Vegas. will focus her efforts on on business. Patricia New Jersey. Dennis is a supporting the agency’s completed her year-long metallurgist and Shelley Zoe Asimakis (’00 healthcare clients, serv- adventure in October is a pediatrician. The General Studies) has ing as the day-to-day 2005 and celebrated her couple currently reside in recently retired after contact and media buyer. 30th birthday at home. Hawhorne, N.J. working at Children’s Behavioral Services for 13 Christina (Viloria) Jon Walker (’98 Nicole (Germain) years. Prior to her position Chaney (’04 Political Geography) and his wife, Drake (’98 Elemen- with Children’s Behav- Science) married Daniel Diana (Wilkins) Walker Chaney in June 2005. Michael Anderson (’99 tary Education) and ioral Services, Zoe worked (’93 English), announce Christina is excited to Electrical Engineering, Billy Drake (’98 Business for the University from the birth of their daugh- begin a career in the ’03 Business Administra- Administration, Logistics) 1969-83. ter, Adia Ruth Walker, on criminal justice field, tion) and Holly Ham- were married Aug. 3, Sept. 25, 2005. helping foster youth in

perle (’03 Nursing) 2005. The wedding was Jeanne (Bleeker) a surprise ceremony on s Freeman (’00 Nutrition) San Diego. the beautiful Mendenhall has accepted a position as Glacier near Juneau, Alas- an assistant professor at Julie Cousins (’04 Art) ka. The couple live out- California State University, recently celebrated her side Orlando, Fla., where Chico. She and her hus- first wedding anniver- Billy works for Coca-Cola band, Kevin Freeman sary with her husband, North America as Base (’00 Recreation), recently Walter Weis III. Julie is Place USA’s materials moved to Chico, Calif. embarking on a new manager. career in advertising, and Kellie (Bozzuto) Paul her future plans include (’00 Speech Pathology) working with her hus-

36 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 AlumniNews band at WWIII Creative Services in print, radio and television.

Monica Myles (’04 Journalism) was recently hired as the events and public relations coordi- nator at John Ascuaga’s Nugget. Myles will work with both the events manager and the public relations manager to Rajan Zed (’01 MBA) Nicole Baldassaro (’03 Amy Bond Veloz (’04 Monica Myles (’04 organize special events Journalism) Journalism) Journalism) and assist with media promotions. She will also handle internal commu- nications. nating internal com- time playing on the sible for overseeing munications, project beach and is prepar- and managing various Amy Bond Veloz (’04 research, organizing ing to launch two new aspects of projects Journalism) has been seminars and speaking clothing lines. under way and assisting named public relations engagements, and pre- in the field as necessary specialist at Consultants paring and implement- Ryan Browne (’05 to support that role. He in Marketing Inc. In ing special events. Construction Sciences) is currently working on this role, Bond Veloz is was hired at Clark & the new parking garage responsible for commu- Joshua Wenner (’04 Sullivan as a project en- at Washoe Medical nicating with the media, Finance) has recently gineer for the northern Center’s main campus. writing and distributing relocated to Hermosa Nevada office. In his new Ryan Browne (’05 Con- news releases, coordi- Beach, Calif. He spends role, Browne is respon- struction Sciences)

Remembering Friends Pete Evezich (’60 Geological Engineer- Clarence A. Heckethorn (’40 Journalism, Fausto “Foe” Mentaberry (’48 Educa- ing, ’68 MBA) died Oct. 2, 2005, at his home ’67 Management) died Oct. 23, 2005. While tion) passed away Nov. 12, 2005. He was in Fountain Valley, Calif. Survivors include at the University he was a member and presi- born in 1921 in Winnemucca and came to his wife, Lois (’60 Education), daughters dent of the Press Club, editor of the Sage- the University on a scholarship after let- Elisabeth Farnsworth, Stephanie Scott brush, member of Blue Key, member of Coffin tering in three sports at Humboldt County and Alexandra Evezich, and three grand- and Keys, president of Sigma Nu fraternity, High School. He left to join the Army, only children. Pete was president of a group of and a member of the boxing team. In World to return to the University, where he met his independent students (not affiliated with War II he served as company commander in future wife, Joyce (“Jody”). He was a mem- Greek system) in the late 1950s. He was also a tank-destroyer battalion and later as a staff ber of the Sigma Nu fraternity, serving as a member of the varsity tennis team and officer in seven European-Middle Eastern house manager from 1947-48. He enjoyed Coffin and Keys. campaigns, including the D-Day landing in being the head timekeeper for 20 years at Normandy. He was awarded the Bronze Star, the University’s home football games. Peter Kelley (’40 Journalism), a longtime Purple Heart and Unit Citation Badge. He Nevada journalist, veteran and consultant later commanded a service unit in Las Vegas Paul C. Parraguirre (’50 B.A., unknown to numerous Nevada political leaders, died and retired with the rank of colonel. Follow- major), longtime attorney and former at his home in Washoe Valley. He was 86. ing his war service, Heckethorn became the district court judge, died Dec. 26, 2005, at A native of Eureka, Nev., Kelley began his first sports editor of theLas Vegas Sun. In 1959, the age of 82. Parraguirre attended the newspaper career at the Lassen Advocate Gov. Grant Sawyer appointed him chairman University and served as student body in Susanville, Calif. He later joined the Army of the Nevada Industrial Commission (now president. He also attended the University and served as a field correspondent and Employers Insurance Company), where he of California, Berkeley, and earned his law editor during World War II. Following the served two terms. After serving as executive degree from the University of Denver in war, he became editor of the Carson City director of Nevada Blue Cross/Blue Shield, he 1954. In addition to his 35 years in private Daily Appeal. He next entered politics and retired in 1985. practice, Parraguirre served as Nevada worked for Nevada Sen. George Malone, deputy attorney general, chief deputy Gov. Charles Russell and Sen. Chic Hecht. district attorney of Clark County, and district Kelley was inducted into the Nevada News- court judge for the 5th Judicial District paper Hall of Fame in 2000. Court of Nevada.

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 37 OnPhilanthropy

The Satres JeanPhotoby Dixon Supporting Nevada in many ways he Community Founda- and through the Satre Family tion of Western Nevada Fund generously supported Trecently pledged $1 the College of Education, the million from the Satre Family Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Fund under the advisement of Center, the Silver and Blue new Foundation Board Chair Society, the School of the Jennifer Satre (’80 M.Ed.) and Arts and other programs and her husband, Philip Satre. A activities. The Philip G. Satre portion of the gift will fund Chair in Gaming Studies in two endowments — the Satre the College of Business Ad- Family Education Scholar- ministration honors Philip ship Endowment and the Satre’s distinguished career Satre Endowment for the and leadership in the gaming College of Education Dean’s industry. Future Scholars Program. Phil Satre served as the United States and around the Pacific Resources, Rite Aid The remaining pledge will go top executive for Harrah’s world. In 2002, Chief Executive Corporation, the Nevada toward an endowment for the Entertainment, a $4.5 billion, Magazine named Satre one Cancer Institute, the National School of Arts, construction Fortune 500 company, for of the nation’s top 100 chief D-Day Museum Foundation, of the new Math and Science more than 20 years before executives. and the Board of Trustees Building, and the John Mark retiring in January 2005. Satre currently serves on of his alma mater, Stanford and Geraldine Mills Lilley When he joined Harrah’s eight boards, including Sierra University. Presidential Scholarship in 1980, Harrah’s had just Endowment. two Nevada casinos and a For information on College of Education scholarships and programs contact Gretchen Alt, development director, at (775) Long-time friends of the casino under development in 784-6914 or [email protected]. For information about the Philip G. Foundation and University, Atlantic City. Today, Harrah’s Satre Chair contact Stefanie Scoppettone, (‘96 Ph.D.), development the Satres have personally operates 40 casinos in the director, at (775) 784-4912 or [email protected]. Wells Fargo Scholarship assists generations

he annual Wells Fargo First Generation Scholarship luncheon Twas held Nov. 8 at the William J. Raggio Building to honor this year’s scholarship recipients. During the luncheon, Chad Osorno, Wells Fargo senior vice president, presented Shannon Ellis, Uni- versity of Nevada vice president for student services, with a check for $50,000 to continue the program next year. The First Genera- tion Scholars are graduates of Nevada high schools and are the first in their family to attend college. Five members of the fresh- man, sophomore, junior and senior classes are chosen each year. Recipients complete 10 hours of community service per month. Since 1997, Wells Fargo has donated more than $360,000 to assist 117 University of Nevada First Generation Scholars.

For information on corporate giving and endowments contact Lynda Buhlig ‘84, executive director of development, at (775) 784-1352 ext. 2231 2005 Wells Fargo First Generation Scholars: from left or [email protected]. Tammy Nguyen, Chris Westin, Jasmine Troop, Brianna Burns, Anabel Andrade, Joshua Wiltse.

38 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 OnPhilanthropy New Endowed Scholarships w M. Bashir and Julie C. Sulahria playing. The initial gift of $10,000 will Scholarship Endowment provide assistance to undergraduate w Crawford Family Scholarship M. Bashir (’69 M.S.) and Julie C. Sulahria students pursuing a Bachelor of Music Endowment (’72 M.S.) have established this endowed in Performance or in Education with an Leon Crawford, an internationally scholarship in the College of Agriculture, emphasis in piano. traveled engineer with Reno roots, Biotechnology and Natural Resources planned far ahead to support the with a gift of $15,000. The initial award w Lowell C. and Frances W. Bernard University through the Crawford Family this fall will go to first-generation college Scholarship Scholarship. In 1995, he designated part students pursuing a degree in agriculture Endowment of his estate to assist disadvantaged production or water resources. M. Bashir Lowell Bernard students in gaining a college education. Sulahria worked for the Bureau of Land (’48 business After he passed away in 2004, the Management in Carson City before administration) Crawford Family Scholarship was retiring in 2000. Julie C. Sulahria retired was president established according to his instructions. from the Airport Authority and the of the Nevada A recent distribution from his trust Nevada Department of Transportation Society of brought the total Crawford Family and is a water colorist and docent at the Certified Public Scholarship fund to more than $373,000. Nevada Museum of Art in Reno. Accountants and A native of South Dakota, Mr. Crawford Bernard the University’s came to Reno in 1942, when his family w Betty Jean Crowley Memorial Alumnus of the moved here from Montana. His father, Endowment for Piano Students Year in 1994. He was also a Foundation Merwin “Bud” Crawford, was a teacher The Marie Crowley Foundation has trustee from 1993 through 1998. He and school administrator in the Reno established this scholarship fund in passed away in 2005. His wife Frances school system for 27 years. His mother, memory of Betty Jean Crowley, a great “Billie” Bernard (’48 education) has Mildred “Milly” Crawford, worked as a lover of piano and organ music. Until chosen to honor him through this private legal secretary. Leon attended her death, Betty brightened holiday endowed scholarship, to be awarded to Mount Rose Elementary School, festivities at women’s clubs, nursing an outstanding accounting major each Billinghurst Junior High and Reno High homes and hospitals with her piano year. School, graduating in 1953. He went on to Stanford University, receiving a bachelor’s in 1957 and a master’s in 1962, both in civil engineering. He retired NEVADA Parents Fund at the end of 1990 after 23 years with — because there’s more to student life than studying Bechtel Corporation of San Francisco. His career focused primarily on construction The Parents Fund was projects overseas. Thanks to Mr. Crawford’s generosity established in 2004 to benefit and foresight, generations of deserving the Nevada student body. students will be helped to achieve their educational goals. Hundreds of parents and friends have contributed amounts Do you see the name of a friend, a mentor, a cause that appeals to you in ranging from $5 to $1,000. The the list above? The University of Nevada, Reno Foundation accepts gifts of any fund supports student-centered amount from anyone who would like to support deserving students in pursuing projects and programs. their educational goals. To donate to this or any Foundation scholarship fund, contact Colin Beck ’01, Send donations to: University of Nevada, Reno Foundation, Mail Stop 162 coordinator of annual giving, at (775) 784-1268 or [email protected], or go Reno, NV 89557 or contact Keiko Weil (’87 online at http://giving.unr.edu/ and click “Give Online.” business administration), director of donor relations, at (775) 784-1587 or [email protected].

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 39 PackTrack On the ball, under the kills Christine Harms is perfection in her major and close to it on the volleyball court

Senior Christine Harms plays libero, a defensive specialty position, on the volleyball team and last fall dug out a school- record 473 kill attempts by opponents. She’s also an engineer- ing major with a perfect 4.0 grade-point average, which helped her become one of only 18 volleyball players nationally to make ESPN The Magazine’s Academic All-America team. Writer Pat McDonnell interviewed Harms in late December, soon after the Wolf Pack had competed in its third NCAA tour- nament in the past four years (and lost in the first round).

Q: What’s it like to be named an Aca- “There have demic All-American? definitely been “It’s very exciting. I think it’s cool to be opportunities I

honored for academics and athletics be- wouldn’t have had Photo courtesy of Nevada Athletics Media Services/John Byrne cause academics are, ultimately, going to if I wasn’t in sports. take you further. I have one year of school I wouldn’t have outstanding student at the University left (plans to graduate in May of 2007).” gone to Hawaii each year of my college ca- of Pacific.D id she share some tips with Q: What would you like to be doing reer. I think the whole athlete group here you? down the road in civil engineering? (at the University) is really tightly knit, and “The biggest thing she offers is un- “I’d like to get my master’s in structural all the relationships with other athletes in derstanding because she was a student engineering and do research in environ- other sports I wouldn’t have experienced. athlete. She knows the amount of time it mentally friendly structures.” That’s an often-overlooked part of college takes to be successful in the classroom. Q: You’re not the only person in your athletics. It’s a whole family you’re part of She definitely understands the impor- family who’s made big news over the once you’re an athlete in college.” tance of academics, which has been years. Your parents (Dwayne “Peanut” Q: Did you know you’d be good with fabulous.” Harms and Tena Kendall Harms) were the books at an early age? Q: Obviously, one of the keys in your inducted into the University of Califor- “School is always important in my fam- life must be balance. How do you nia-Davis Athletic Hall of Fame, right? ily. From as early as I can remember, my achieve it? “My mom and my dad are both long- mom would be sitting at the table with us “I don’t know. Some people would say distance runners. My mom (who held the (Harms has three sisters) working on our I haven’t achieved balance (she chuckles American record in the 3,000-meter and homework, making sure we were under- again) because there isn’t very much social 20-mile runs) went to nationals while in standing everything. I think from an early life. I think it’s time management. When college and competed for the U.S. cross age, my teachers tried to keep me out you sit down to study, you’ve got to be country team in England while in juniors. of trouble by giving me additional work ready to get it done.” My dad coached the Nigerian national (she laughs). So I guess that was kind of a team (from 1974-76), and last year he was benefit for me without me realizing what In addition to Harms, 15 Wolf Pack student the national cross country team coach and was going on. I’ve always enjoyed learning athletes competing in volleyball, football, went to France.” new things.” soccer and cross country earned spots on Q: Has college athletics helped you to Q: Tell me how it’s worked with your the fall Western Athletic Conference All- expand your world? coach, Devin Scruggs. She was an Academic squad.

40 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 PackTrack

Eighteen-year-old Peccole Park has a new FieldTurf artificial surface with simulated grass blades (see inset). The durable playing field will be used for 30 Wolf Pack baseball games this season, as well as the home schedule for the new A-level Golden Baseball League’s Reno Silver Sox. Photos by Ted Cook PhotosTed by Snowy days to melt away at FieldTurf facts Peccole thanks to new FieldTurf n Synthetic field with a subsurface of sand evada baseball coach Gary Powers only had environmentally, as the community continues to mixed with rubber to look out the window of his office on a cold, grow and water is at a premium, this gives the Uni- Nsnowy January afternoon to explain the ben- versity an opportunity to save water so that it can be recycled from old efits of the latest Peccole Park renovation project. used in other areas.” sneakers. Over the winter, Peccole’s grass was replaced with an The durable surface will allow Peccole, which n Used predominantly artificial surface called FieldTurf. opened in 1988 and seats 3,000, to play host to more on football fields, such “It snowed all morning, and there’s still snow on events, such as serving as home field for the new some roads, but the sun has come out and already A-level Golden Baseball League entry from Reno, the as at Nebraska, Penn the field is completely clear — thanks to our new Silver Sox. The Sox will debut on June 2. Increased State, Oregon, Georgia, surface,” Powers, in his 23rd season, said. Peccole use will create an added revenue stream for Ohio State and Florida FieldTurf differs from previous generations of artifi- the Pack baseball program, Powers said. (as well as Nevada’s cial turf in that it has blades of simulated grass. Older The veteran Pack coach added that the new Mackay Stadium). forms of artificial turf were more like carpet and had surface only enhances what is already one of the seams that sometimes contributed to injuries. best venues in the country to watch baseball. In nine n Is expanding into The $1 million surface renovation became neces- of the last 10 seasons, Peccole has been among the baseball; used on sary following the record snowfall of 2005. The Pack nation’s leaders in attendance. home fields of Major couldn’t access its own playing field for nearly two “Peccole has a whole different look,” Powers said League Baseball’s months. of the appearance with the FieldTurf. “In many ways, “One, this is going to give us the opportunity to this is going to be a brand new park. When people Toronto Blue Jays, Min- work out that much more often,” Powers said. “We walk in and take their first look from the stands, nesota Twins, Tampa lost so much practice time in 2005 due to the condi- they’re going to be pleasantly surprised.” Bay Devil Rays. tion of the field after all that snow hit. And, two, — John Trent ’85, ’87, ’00 M.A.

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 41 PackTrack Look for the Wolf on the Cover Ex-Pack QB Dutton stars in Arena Football and on video-game box By John Trent ’85, ’87, ’00 M.A.

ohn Dutton’s football career has car- Broncos great John Elway, for the past versatile Nevada athlete who competed ried him in many different direc- four seasons. In 2005, he led the Crush in the 2000 Olympic Trials in swimming Jtions, to many different locales. But to the team’s first Arena League title. and helped the Pack to the 2000 Big West it is Dutton’s latest home — on the cover Dutton has been the Tom Brady of the swimming and diving title. The couple of the box for EA Sports’ new Arena Arena League postseason, compiling a have two sons, Zachary, 4, and Drew, 1. Football video game and as spokes- 7-1 record in playoff games. They live in Denver. man for the game — that has even the “Even when I was younger, I’ve always “Terina’s a full-time mom, and our easy-going Southern California native worried more about wins than stats,” kids are everything to her,” Dutton says. wondering what unexpected turn his says Dutton, 30. “I’ve always measured “We’re very blessed. I love the fact that career will take next. my success through wins, as well as my son’s favorite type of football, of “It’s crazy, it really is,” says Dutton (’00 the relationships I’ve developed with course, is Arena Football. He knows all physical education). “It’s quite an honor, my teammates and my coaches. That’s of our touchdown dances, and he even but at the same time, there’s going to be always been very important to me.” uses our couch as a wall, just like the some added pressure associated with this. Dutton is married to former Wolf Pack way we use the wall during games. We I’m going to have to live up to all the hype track and field and swimming standout might have to start breaking him of that of being the first Arena League player Terina Cook (’02 physical education), a habit — the couch takes a pretty good featured on a product like this.” beating.” Dutton began his collegiate Dutton adds that many of career at Texas and transferred his best memories of team- to Nevada, where he was Big mates and coaches revolve West Conference Offensive Play- around Nevada. er of the Year and led the Pack to People appreciate the kind a victory in the 1996 Las Vegas of discipline, pride and work Bowl. He was chosen in the sixth ethic that (Nevada) Coach round of the 1998 NFL draft by (Chris) Ault (’69 physical edu- the Miami Dolphins, spent time cation) instills in his players,” in the preseason in 1999 with the he says. “It was great watching Atlanta Falcons and Cleveland them turn things around this Browns then turned to the season. (Crush and former Arena Football League. Nevada teammate) John Peaua Arena football is an indoor and I have been pulling out all sport featuring a 50-yard field the Wolf Pack gear we can find with padded walls along the this winter.” sidelines, eight players to a side and wild plays that can include John Trent, who holds players smashing into and over bachelor’s degrees from the retaining walls while chasing University in education and after the ball. journalism along with a master’s Since leading the San Jose in journalism, is managing editor SaberCats to the ArenaBowl for the Custom Publishing Group title in 2002 and being named at the Reno Gazette-Journal. He MVP of the title game, Dutton is also a former sportswriter who has quarterbacked the Colorado covered Wolf Pack athletics for Crush, owned by former Denver more than a decade.

42 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Photo by David Calvert Freshman butterfly specialist Kim Kabesh started her Nevada swimming career with a flourish, capturing Western Athletic Conference Athlete of the Week honors in her first month of competition. The Sherwood Park, Alberta, student won three events in October at University of California-Davis and garnered five Top 20 finishes in the Pacific Tiger Invitational. Nevada, as this issue went to press, had won 12 of its first 13 dual meets this season and placed second in the 20-team Speedo Cup at Long Beach, Calif.

NEWSMAKERS Nevada to host national of the boxing championships in June college boxing finals and July as part of a program focus- The University will host the Na- ing on college national champion-

tional Collegiate Boxing Association ships in various sports. PhotoDavidby Calvert championships this spring for the — Pat McDonnell second time in three years. The tournament will be held April A diverse Pack 6-8 at the Eldorado Hotel-Casino in Nevada was one of only 10 univer- Reno. sities to win a Diversity in Athletics The Wolf Pack boxing legacy is Award this year from the Laboratory storied. Former judge and referee Mills for Diversity in Sport at Texas A&M Lane (’63, business administration), the University. late Pulitzer Prize-nominated novelist The annual award recognizes Robert Laxalt (’47, English) and The Division I-A athletic departments Contender television star and profes- for various dimensions of diversity, sional boxer Joey Gilbert (’00, English), including gender and racial diversity all competed for Nevada. University of employees and graduation rates teams have won four national titles, in for male and female African-Ameri- 1976, 1978, 1991 and 1993. can student athletes. Nevada was Nevada Coach Mike Martino says singled out for its overall excellence 132-pound NCBA defending cham- in diversity and the gender diversity pion David Schacter is the Wolf Pack’s of its staff. Senior offensive tackle Adam Kiefer and senior leading contender to win a national Earlier this academic year, the defensive end Craig Bailey celebrate with the title in April. Schacter earned the University was listed by a political sci- Sheraton Hawaii Bowl trophy in Honolulu after 2005 championship as a freshman. entist at Penn State-York as the best the Wolf Pack’s 49-48 overtime victory against CSTV Networks, a multimedia athletic department in the nation in Central Florida. Nevada, which won a share of its first Western Athletic Conference football title, company focused entirely on college providing opportunities for women finished the season 9-3. sports, will air tape-delayed coverage in sports.

Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 43 The Way We Were

“Nevada’s athletes are certainly not to be compared with birds who are easy prey for every blundering hunter with a shot-gun.” — Sagebrush editorial, Dec. 1, 1922 Nevada Sagehens? By Brandon Stewart ’05 side from cumbersome, full-length uniforms, Univer- sity of Nevada cheerleaders in 1921 had another hin- Adrance to their job: “Go, Sagehens!” didn’t make for a fear-inspiring yell. Neither did spelling out the team’s other nickname, “S-A-G-E-B-R-U-S-H-E-R-S!” Refusing to continue referring to its team as a bush or chicken, the U of N Sagebrush, as the stu- dent newspaper was known at the time, led a campaign to rename the team beginning in December 1921. “Nevada’s athletes are certainly not to be compared with birds who are easy prey for every blundering hunter with a shot-gun,” a Sagebrush editorial read. “The meek and inoffensive Sagehen in no way, shape or manner can be construed to symbolize Nevada’s fight and do-or-die determina- tion for which her athletic teams have long been famous.” The paper solicited suggestions from students, and several were proposed: Wasps, Mustangs, Rabbits, Miners and Bobcats, to name a few. But the paper was not satisfied. In another editorial published Feb. 16, 1922, the Brush put forth its own recommendation: “The Desert Wolf.” “Did you ever see one in his natu- ral state: a silver grey brute of a beast, whose main characteristic is Endurance and who will fight as long as a spark of life is left in him?” the paper wrote. The name “Wolves” stuck and within a year evolved into the current “Wolf Pack.” Ironically though, experts at the Nevada Division of Wildlife say that with a few exceptions wolves have been extinct in Nevada for many decades.

44 Nevada Silver & Blue • Spring 2006 Investing in Excellence

Honoring a Lifetime of Achievement Ralph and Rose Hoeper By Robert Pearson ven as a teenager, Ralph Hoeper loved to Ework with telephones. While growing up in the tiny Sierra foothills town of Butcher Ranch, Ralph, whose last name is pronounced Hooper, built his mother a working telephone — direct to their neighbor’s home. During World War II he served as a communications techni- cian aboard the USS Redfin in the Pacific. After he returned home, he studied electrical engineering through the G.I. Bill, first at Placer College, now Sierra College, not far from his hometown, and eventually at the University of Nevada, where he received his bachelor’s in 1951. During his time in Reno, Ralph did more than study. Nearly every weekend he drove over Donner Pass to Foresthill, about 10 miles from his boyhood home, and worked for Foresthill Telephone. Even before completing his degree he became part-owner of the company. In 1957 he became sole owner, proprietor, and at times construction laborer and on-call technician for the town’s communications link to the world. In 1960 Ralph married the former Rose Winchell, who later helped at the company office, at times serving as the entire office staff. Over many years of hard work they built the little phone company in the growing community from a handful of lines into a modern digital communications network. Ralph always appreciated the impact his education had on his life and achieve- ments. The couple kept in touch with events at his alma mater and for many years made contributions to the College of Engineering Annual Fund and the Class of 1951 Endowment. So when Ralph passed away in 2001, Rose de- for electrical Together, Ralph and Rose Hoeper built cided to honor her husband’s memory engineering Foresthill Telephone into a modern and their shared appreciation for elec- and a faculty communications network in the foothills trical engineering education at the award for excel- of the Sierra range. Mrs. Hoeper honored University by establishing the Ralph lence in teaching her husband’s memory with an endowed scholarship in electrical engineering. E. and Rose A. Hoeper Endowment. and advisement. A majority of the gift goes toward Ralph Hoeper, the Ralph E. and Rose A. Hoeper like many engi- Scholarship Endowment in Electri- neering alumni, For more information about College cal Engineering. The scholarship was an inventor, innovator and entrepreneur. His of Engineering scholarships and will support full tuition for approximately 12 top vision and its realization took hard work, intel- programs contact Melanie Perish, electrical engineering students each year with an ligence, education and experience. Says Rose development director, at (775) 784- emphasis on attracting National Merit Scholars to Hoeper: “Ralph accomplished a lot for a small- 6433 or [email protected]. Nevada. There is also an equipment endowment town person.” Meet Nevada Alumni Association Lifetime Member WARD HINCKLEY (’54 Arts and Science) ood classes and great friends. GThat’s how Ward Hinckley (’54 Arts and Science) remembers his time at the University of Nevada. With a family in the petroleum business, Ward started helping his dad, Wayne Hinckley, at his service stations at just 7 years old. Ward did not graduate or officially enter the business, however, until his return from the Army after serving during the Korean War. What began as a single service station on Second and West streets grew into the company that is known today as Berry-Hinckley Industries. Ward’s son Art Hinckley (’78 Accounting) has played a role in the management of the company since graduating from the University of Nevada. Social activities were important to Ward, who was on the Artemisia yearbook staff and a member of the Alpha Tao Omega fraternity. Ward has sound advice for today’s students: “Get your priorities correct and stick with it. First, study at least two hours for each hour of class, and then you can really enjoy your other activities and social life.” Some of Ward’s fondest memories while attending Nevada were road trips to San Francisco Kezar Stadium to watch Nevada play St. Mary’s and Santa Clara. Ward continues to cheer on Nevada with season tickets for football and basketball and a Lifetime Membership in the Nevada Alumni Association.

To join the Nevada Alumni Association, visit www.unr.edu/alumni or call (888) NV-ALUMS.

University of Nevada, Reno NEVADA SILVER & BLUE Non Profit Org. Reno, NV 89557-0053 U.S. Postage P A I D Nevada, Reno Change Service Requested Permit No. 26