The other day while trying to figure out how to help raise about $50 million for our new RWEC Center, it occurred to us that we've got to know someone in town with access to that kind of cash.

We mulled it over for about five minutes when it hit us like a lightning bolt in a New Mexico thunderstorm -- we know some guys who can relate to the type of arena funding trouble we are having here: Sacramento Kings owners, Joe and Gavin Maloof. Let's face it, both of our arenas suck.

Alexander Gonzalez Jr., are you listening?

We don't know if the Sacramento Kings owners have ever heard of Sacramento State since they weren't seen scouting any of our players this season, but you can't raise money if you don't ask.

Boys, we know the city has been giving you a tough time about your own arena, and we can relate, but we need the $50 mil really bad. Without the cash we end up with a shell of an arena/rec center and none of the services we were promised last year when we approved the project. And even if we do get all this, it won't be until the middle of the second decade of the century. Can you say Destination 2015? How in the heck can we have a viable recreation center without bowling and first-run movies on campus?

We know that $50 million is a lot of cash when you are worried about your own arena, but this is bigger than just a cash donation. It's a great way to give back to the community that has made Sacramento one of the best NBA basketball cities in the country. Besides, at least a couple of us are future season ticket holders.

So, what's in it for you? You give Sac State $50 million- the city, in an overwhelming tidal wave of gratitude, finally decides to finance your new place to the tune of $200 million and we both win! $50 million for $200 million. It's good business. How can you not like that math? As painful as the "Maloof Center" might sound, we'll even name the place after you.

Let us warn you, don't listen to that business manager guy, Jim Thomas you have working for you. He sure can make you some bucks but he doesn't understand the concept of good will, giving back to the community and all that stuff that doesn't generate receipts.

Joe and Gavin: We know you'll need some time to process this, so take a couple days and don't even think about responding until sometime next week. How about 2 o'clock next Thursday? Call us.

Article Tools