What was old is new again at the Union

The doors of the University Union swung wide open on Thursday and beneath the bunting and trim, campus dignitaries welcomed the CSUS community and declared the expansion project complete.

"I'm really proud of this magnificent facility. The expansion will serve the University well," said CSUS President Donald Gerth.

Gerth praised the Union, which was expanded by over 100,000 square feet, as a convenient meeting place for the campus community.

"This is an excellent place where people can come together. Students, faculty and staff can come here and mingle. I've tried several of the restaurants and I like the food I've tried so far," Gerth said. "You bet you will see me here mingling with everyone."

ASI President Gary Davis said he was proud and optimistic about the new Union.

"I wish I was a freshman again and was able to experience everything the new Union has to offer," he said.

Ron Ablang, a senior majoring in Electronic Engineering, braved the long lines for free food in a reception following the dedication ceremony.

"The Union looks larger than what President Gerth said it would be," he said. "I'm sure I'll be here more often."

Faculty members on hand echoed Ablang's sentiments.

"We can and will have more faculty events here. We can have meetings and we can talk informally with our students here at the Union," said Dr. Ric Brown, associate vice president for research and graduate studies. "This new Union is more like a gathering spot with the coffee shops and pleasant atmosphere."

Other new services in the remodeled Union include the recently opened Copy Graphics Center, Smart Cuts Hair Salon and a travel agency.

In addition to a new ballroom, shops and conference rooms, the University Union now houses KSSU, the student run radio station and the State Hornet.