Kean University - The Cougar's Byte - January 23, 2006 by The Cougar's Byte

Volume 2 • Issue 16

A Student Life & Leadership Development Publication for the Kean University Student Community

January 23, 2006

Meet The Candidates

NJ Transit Ride Free Week

By Kaitlyn Davies, Staff Writer

By Leticia S. Neal, Correspondent

he College of Education is in the midst of searching for a new Dean for the College of Education. The two candidates are Dr. James Johnson, and Dr. Susan Polirstok. The Search Committee scheduled the opportunity for faculty, staff and students to meet the two candidates on two different days so that anybody with questions could come and have their doubts addressed. Dr. James Johnson was scheduled for Wednesday, January 18, 2006 and Dr. Susan Polirstok for Thursday, January 19, 2006. Dr. James Johnson Dr. Johnson served as Dean of the School of Education and Allied Human Services at Hofstra University from 19932005. When he arrived at Hofstra there wasn’t a lot of trust between administration and faculty and he wanted to change that. “I told everybody to forget about the past; let’s focus on today and the future,” he declared – that is how he likes to enter a situation. In other words, he feels that there’s nothing we can do about the past so let’s not worry about it, let everything go so we can make the situation better. While at Hofstra, Dr. Johnson wanted to have “community building”; he likes working in situations where people feel comfortable working together. He received his Master of Science in secondary education/social sciences and Ph.D. from The Pennsylvania State University, and an A.B. in history/education from Duke University. Dr. Susan Polirstok Dr. Polirstok is currently the Associate Dean of Education at Lehman College of The City University of New York. She received her Ed.D from Columbia University, and a Master of Science in education and a Bachelor of Arts in English/education from City College of New York. She is currently Special Education Consultant to U.S. Representative Eliot L. Engel, 18th Congressional District. During the meet-and-greet session set up on her behalf, Dr. Polirstok said, “I believe very strongly in scholarship. Teachers should write articles on things that they do now – using their own techniques and experiences.” So now that you’ve met the two candidates for the Dean of the College of Education, who you would like to see get the job? Both candidates are extremely qualified for the position. They both bring new ideas and have plans for the future if the future is theirs to take hold of. Good luck to the Search Committee in finding the right person. Kaitlyn Davies, freshman History major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Here We Go Again

J Transit is offering one week of free transportation to Kean students during January 30 through February 5. You can ride free when you present your Kean identification with a NJ Transit coupon.

Once the survey is completed the coupon will be emailed to you. You can also access the website through the Kean web page when you click on transportation discount. Don’t miss your opportunity to save on your transportation costs this semester.

Commuting to college is expensive especially during the beginning of the semester. The costs of books and supplies can leave students with barely enough money to get to class. New Jersey Transit has good news for commuter students trying to save money on transportation. NJ Transit has designated January 30 through February 5 for NJ Transit free ride week. Kean students can ride NJ Transit free during the entire week when they present there Kean identification card and the survey coupon when boarding any NJ Transit train, light rail, or bus. Students are required to fill out a survey to receive the coupon. Go to http://www.njtransit. com/nn_college.shtml to fill out the survey.

To help students with the rising transportation costs throughout the school year NJ Transit also gives a twenty five percent discount to students. Kean has created a link through Kean WISE where students can sign up for their student monthly pass online. When you click on menu on Kean WISE, you can sign up for the QuikTik option. NJ Transit can electronically verify your fulltime student status through the QuikTik online service. For more information about Quik-Tik you can call 1-866-QuikTIX.

Leticia S. Neal, senior English and Political Science double major, is an intern with The Cougar’s Byte.

Look Who Got Caught Jessica Dussault, freshman Biology Major reads The Cougar’s Byte to keep up on the events on campus — “Since I’m new on campus, it helps me to know what everybody is doing.”

Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte

By Kemy Clermont, Staff Writer

n Sunday January 15th, Kean University opened the Residence Halls once again for the students. It was a sight for sore eyes for those students who longed for that place they call their second home; a place where they have gained their freedom from the voice and words of their parents and nurtured their independence and free will. But for others, it was a routine which they have become too familiar with. Those who are longing to graduate, and are in their last semester,

simply walked to their room hoping for a quick semester. For whatever the reason or emotion that was in the air that day, Kean was once again alive with the joyous laughter of the students. Kean has been a home for many students that either live out of state, in a different country, or even just down the road in a different town. The residence hall has become a personal apartment to many of the students. Individual touches and personalities have

gone into decorating these rooms. Too often have the dorm rooms as she moved her luggage to Sozio Hall become synonymous with the rooms that many left behind at their original homes. As she moved her luggage to Sozio Hall, Sharetta Harrington, a Senior Criminal Justice Major stated, “Kean is my home away from home. I just couldn’t wait to come back. I missed my room and bed and even the blue couches. I miss it more than I miss my own home.” This was just one of the few comments that the students were saying as they walked to their room. Another student added, “Even in this freezing cold weather I’m happy to move back on campus.” For those whom are unaware of the Residence Life and Housing procedures, here is a little outline of these procedures. Students are not allowed to reside in the Halls from December 23rd till January 15th. Only the Residence Assistants and Desk Assistants were eligible to move in as early as Wednesday January 12th for training. As for the rest of the resident population, they were exiled to their homes for the three weeks of winter break. But that did not slow down the students when it was time to come back to school. All the Resident Assistants were ready with the keys and room assignments, while the desk assistants were ready to open the doors and let the students in.

Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte

Just like clock work it was time to come back and begin a new semester. From the Vaughn Ames Parking lot to the dorms, there were

For t h e K e a n U n i v e r s i t y s tu d e n t c o m mun i t y

students, parents, friends or who ever you were able to con into helping you on this cold and windy day with your suit cases and bags. As a service, Residence Life provided the students with orange bins to make their commute back and forth a little better. The bins were rented out of Whitman Lounge, a freshman residence hall and also the office for Residence Life and Housing. The only requirement was to provide the desk assistants with an ID. This semester, there were a lot more students moving in on campus. Most of the students that were living in the Hilton Hotel are now on campus. This was a big difference for them. One of the residences, Falose Andre, a Senior Biology Major who used to live in the hotel stated, “I’m very excited and am anticipating this new semester on campus. I like the Hilton but I am very happy about my new move to the campus. I’m closer to everything now and I don’t have to worry about rushing to do my work because I have to catch the last shuttle at 11 p.m. I really feel like this is going to be a good year. Plus I’m also closer to my friends.” So as one can see, this semester is actually onto a great start. Many of the students seemed to be very happy to be back and are really anticipating this new semester. Kemy Clermont, senior Criminal Justice and Africana Studies double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte.

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January 23, 2006

W e ath e r O u tl o o k For updated forecasts visit http://hurri.kean.edu/~keancast.

Monday, January 23, 2005 Lo: 32 Kean University Office of Student Life & Leadership Development University Center, Room 215 1000 Morris Avenue Union, NJ 07083 (908) 737-5179 cbyte@kean.edu The Cougar’s Byte is a weekly Student Life & Leadership Development newsletter where you will find up to the minute information on all things related to student life at Kean University. Published Mondays during the regular academic year, 3000 copies are distributed free of charge at more than 15 campus locations. The content from the print-based weekly is combined with that of special content targeted for The Cougar’s Byte online edition at www.cougarsbyte.com. The Cougar’s Byte is available at the following campus locations: University Center Atrium; Student Life and Leadership Development Office, UC219; Center for Academic Success Atrium; Townsend Hall, 1st floor Reception Area; Bruce Hall 1st and 2nd floor Lounge Areas; Science Building, 1st floor Sitting Area; New Academic Building, 1st floor Lounge; Hutchinson Hall 1st, 2nd and 3rd floor Lobbies; Willis Hall 1st floor Lounge; and Vaughn Eames Lobby. The Cougar’s Byte welcomes Letters to the Editor, calendar events, event news and information, articles, story ideas, artwork and digital photo submissions. To learn more about our publishing policy visit www.cougarsbyte.com. Associate Editor Scott K. Snowden, Jr. Assistant Editor Rajul Punjabi Features Jen Bissu, Senior Editor Staff Writers Angela M. Barrett Kemy Clermont Kaitlyn Davies Kenya Dubar Donyel L. Griffin Katrina Manzano Irene Murema Jennifer Rubino Whitney Nichole Stevens Correspondent Leticia Neal Creative Arts Manager Rich Lemonie Creative Arts Staff Ashanté S. Barnes Michelle Longmore Circulation Manager Ryan Matthews Student Media Managing Editor Toni M. Cerbo

Hi: 38 Tues. 1/24

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Kean University American Meteorological Society/National Weather Association

Kean University uses a lottery system for organizations to schedule dates and locations for parties and other large social events. This semester, the party lottery will be held on Monday January 30th, in the Pre-function lobby at 3:30 pm. Parties can take place in Downs Hall. The availability of dates for events is based on the availability of scheduling locations. Groups interested in having these events need to have an Executive Board member, preferably the President, present on the day of the lottery. Non-Funded groups must meet with Beverly Desch, Greek Organizations must meet with Catricia Shaw, and Funded Groups must meet with Stephanie Faser before they can enter the Party Lottery. ****Everyone must have a form of approval signed by the Administrators mentioned above before attending the party lottery. (Approval forms are located in UC 219, Office of Student Life and Leadership Development)

Redemption Loans For Social Services Workers By Leticia S. Neal, Correspondent

he opportunity for recent college graduates to enter a thriving career as well as pay off debt accumulated by college loans has come through the social service profession. The decline of professionals in the field of social services caused a demand for more direct care professionals. Governor Cody created a redemption program to persuade college graduates to enter the field. After one year of full time employment, at public or non-profit agency, the participant is redeemed student loans up to 5,000 dollars per year for the maximum of $20,000 for unpaid student loans.

services such as physical, counseling, case management, recreational or speech therapy, vocational training, medication management, and assistance with daily living. Only specific types of social services agencies qualify for the Social Service Redemption Program. These facilities include agencies operated by the Department of Human Services (DHS), county psychiatric hospital, faculties under the Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC), Veteran Affairs, home care facilities operated by Department of Military, and non profit agencies that have contracts with DHS or JJC to provide direct care for person who serves by Department or Commissions.

The qualifying factors for the Social Services Redemption Student Loan Program include being a direct care professional, hired within one year of completing a bachelor’s degree, enrolled in a graduate degree program in human service field, and employed in the social services field on or after July 14, 2005. The participant must sign a contract with the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) specifying the amount of loans repaid, as well as the years of employment required to cover the costs of the repayment.

HESAA is now accepting applications for the Social Services Student Loan Redemption Program. Applications and brochures are available at the financial aid department. For additional program information visit the HESAA website at www.hesaa.org or contact Steven A. Tessitore at (609) 588-2349 to learn how you can become a participant in the Social Services Student Loan Redemption Program.

According to the guidelines stipulated by the HESAA, a direct care professional applies to professional staff members who provide

Leticia S. Neal, senior English and Political Science double major, is an intern with The Cougar’s Byte.

Feng Shui For Your Every Day By Rajul Punjabi, Assistant Editor

hough all of us might not know exactly what Feng Shui is, most people are familiar with the concept of positive and negative energy in a room. Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese art of incorporating and positioning objects to create balance and harmony through the flow of chi (energy). You may be thinking, what does all this ancient placement stuff have to do with me? As a college student, no matter what age you are, it’s important that you are organized, motivated, and have a positive attitude about what you are in the process of accomplishing. After all, students are known to carry around their stress like a book bag – so what how can Feng Shui help? Philosophy and Feng Shui expert Dr. Robert T. Carroll says that our lives are deeply affected by our physical and emotion environment. It makes sense; if we surround ourselves with negative symbols, which can even be unpleasant noises, we are more likely to end

up unsettled or in a bad mood. Instead, you can set up your living area to be a place where you feel comfortable and nurtured. Many students live on campus in a residence hall room that is a definite squeeze when it comes to space. Because space is so important, the first and most important thing to do is to keep the room free of clutter, which is often easier said than done. You can apply techniques of Feng Shui by clearing out old belongings from closets and drawers that are no longer needed, and discard anything that is ripped or broken. Also, if you keep fresh flowers, made sure you discard them before they wilt. This may sound strange, but by doing these things, you will remove negative vibes from your room and create positive space and give you a sense of tranquility. Positioning of the furniture is very important in Feng Shui, no matter whether you are in your own house or your residence hall

V isit ou r o nl i n e e d i t i o n at www. c ouga r s b y t e . c o m

room. Your bed is the most important part of your bedroom; if you can, make sure your headboard is placed firmly against a wall – this will give you a sense of security and peace. Also, surround yourself with calming colors that can enhance your mood – such as pastel blue, butter yellow or pistachio green. Avoid bright, vibrant colors like red that will keep your mind active and may disrupt your sleep. For more restful nights, avoid doing any school work on your bed because you want to be able to associate the bed area with sleep and relaxation instead of stress and work. Feng Shui can be applied to any room but your bedroom or residence hall apartment is a great place to start. Once you begin to create more harmony there, you can direct that energy toward your dreams and aspirations. Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

January 23, 2006 The COUGAR’S Byte

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$cholarship$

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Commmission Scholarship

Established in 1999 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the King Scholarship Program recognizes New Jersey college students for their academic and extra curricular achievements to further the causes championed by the civil rights leader. Scholarships in the amount of $1000 are awarded annually to college students who have demonstrated an active interest and meaningful involvement in areas of human rights, social justice, labor, and world peace; and who intend to pursue academic and/or career paths that would enable them to advance these causes as future leaders. Students must demonstrate knowledge of Dr. King’s legacy and life’s work and must be able to show how their academic pursuits reflect the ideals that Dr. King has come to symbolize. For more information, please visit http://www.njmlkcommission.com/scholarship.html.

Datatel Scholars Foundation The Datatel Scholars Foundation offers scholarships ranging in value from $1000 to $2500 to students attending eligible Datatel client institutions, such as Kean University. All applications must be submitted online at www.datatel.com/dsf. For more information email scholars@datatel.com or call 1 (800) 486-4332. Application deadline January 31, 2006.

UCLSA…The Association For Legal Professionals, Helen Hansen Mem. Scholarship For more information contact Barbara Migliore at (908) 558-2370. Applications available through the Office of Scholarship Services. UCLSA…the association for legal professionals is sponsoring a $750 award to any student who is a resident of Union County and is a Criminal Justice or Law major. The deadline is February 1, 2006.

Women’s Studies Contest Undergraduate students with at least 24 credits and a B average and graduate students with a B average are invited to submit a work that illustrates some aspect of the role, status, or activities of women. The submissions may be a written piece (original poetry, story, play, essay or research paper), a visual presentation (creative works, such as a multimedia construct or a photographic essay), or a musical composition and performance. Awards will be applied towards tuition in 2006. For more information email ignarra@kean. edu or visit Hutchinson Hall room 303. Applicants must submit work to Dr. Irene Gnarra, Hutchinson Hall room 309-E, before February 15, 2006.

Afscme & Uncf Union Scholars Program The United Negro College Fund together with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees operates the Union Scholars Program to provide scholarship/internship opportunities to minority students. The Program is aimed at expanding the minority workforce of the AFSCME Organization throughout the United States. Apply online at www.uncf.org or call (866) 671-7237 for more information. Application deadline is February 27, 2006.

Minority Academic Careers Program – 2006 Undergraduate Research Fellowships

For more information or to request an application packet contact call (973) 290-4105 or email dbrown@cse.edu. The MACUndergraduate Program is a statewide initiative to encourage academically talented undergraduates to consider college teaching as a profession. To be eligible, students must be juniors in college who are US citizens or permanent residents; have a background of economic disadvantage; enrolled full-time with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The deadline is February 28, 2006.

2006 Thomas R. Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship The Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation is seeking well-motivated and academically excellent graduating seniors or recent graduates – who represent all ethnic and social backgrounds – to apply for the Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowships. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.2 and must be interested in becoming Foreign Service Officers in the U.S. Department of State. Applications and more information available online at www.woodrow.org, or contact Sylvia Sheridan, Assistant Director of Public Policy and International Affairs Programs at (609) 452-7007. Application deadline is February 28, 2006.

American Chemical Society Scholars Program Scholarship Applications available online at www.chemistry.org/scholars. For more information call (800) 227-5558 ext. 6250 or email: scholars@acs.org. The ACS Scholars Program is designed to encourage African-American, Hispanic, and Native American students to pursue undergraduate degrees in the chemical sciences. A chemical science degree includes the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, environmental science and toxicology. Scholarships are valued at up to $3000 per academic year. The deadline is March 1, 2006.

2006 Lighthouse International Scholarships For Students Who Are Blind Or Partially Sighted Applications available online at www.lighthouse.org/events/ scholarship_awards.htm. For more information contact Kelly Boyle at (212) 821-9428 or via email: kboyle@lighthouse.org. Lighthouse International invites applications for the 2006 Scholarship Awards Program. Scholarships reward excellence, recognize accomplishments and help students who are blind or partially sighted achieve their career goals. The deadline is March 1, 2006.

Kean University Foundation, Inc. Scholarships

Applications available February 1 through March 15 ONLY online at www.kean.edu/financial_scholarships.html. For more information visit www.kean.edu/financial_scholarFAQ.html. All Kean University students, new and continuing, and matriculated in a degree program are eligible to apply for Foundation Scholarships. Students need file one application with Scholarship Services for consideration of all available award for which they may qualify. There are scholarships for part-time, full-time, incoming freshmen, transfers, upperclassmen, undergraduate and graduate students. The dealine is March 15, 2006.

National Fed. of the Blind Applications available online at www.nfb.org. For more information call (410) 659-9314. The National Federation of the Blind has a large scholarship program whose awards are made solely to persons who are legally blind. Scholarships are valued from $3000 up to $12,000. The deadline is March 31, 2006.

American Institute Of Certified Public Accountants Scholarship Applications available online at www.aicpa.org/members/div/ career/edu/jlcs.htm. The AICPA John L. Carey Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to liberal arts degree holders pursuing graduate studies in accounting. These awards are intended to encourage liberal arts undergraduates to consider professional accounting careers. The deadline is April 1, 2006.

Sema Memorial Scholarship The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund was founded in 1984 to foster leadership in the specialty equipment marketplace and support educational goals for students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket. Career path opportunities include: Accounting, Administration, Advertising/PR, Design/Graphics, Information, Technology, Manufacturing, Photo/Journalism, and Sales/Marketing. SEMA Scholarships are awarded annually to full-time graduate and undergraduate students who have complete a minimum of 50 credits. Visit www.sema.org/scholarships or call (909) 396-0289 for an application. Deadline is April 28, 2006.

Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad Scholarship Are you a NJ Certified EMT? Is Your GPA 2.5 or above? Do you need $2500 in Scholarship Money? If you answered YES to these 3 questions, the Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad Needs YOU!!! A renewable $2,500 annual scholarship is available to Kean students who are New Jersey certified EMTs and have a GPA of 2.5 or above.Help a great community organization while earning money towards your tuition. It’s a win-win situation!!! Recipients of the scholarship must commit to one duty shift of four hours per week for a calendar year. Recipients must also maintain their GPA and full-time enrollment to qualify each academic year. Contact Nina Sumilang, Scholarship Coordinator at (908)737-7053 or via email at nsumilan@kean.edu.

Ragtime With Director Holly Logue Of Kean University By Susan Schnitzer, Alumnae SS: What drew you to do RAGTIME? HL: Ragtime is one of my all time favorite musicals. The score sweeps me away, the stories intertwine in a beautiful way, and above all, there is importance in the telling of this period of our lives. SS: Is this your first time tackling this project? HL: Yes. SS: How will this production compare/differ to other RAGTIMES? HL: As it is an historical musical, we won’t be trying to make the production unique in any way other than to allow our actors to bring their own talents and insights to the roles, and our designers to bring to life both the historical and fictional characters. Our set design will not be as minimal as the recent London version (Papermill did this

version), nor will it be as large as the Broadway production. SS: Will this be a big budget production? HL: For us, at Kean, yes. It has the largest budget we have ever had. SS: How many cast members will be in the production? HL: 43 I think. SS: Where did you draw your cast from? HL: Most are students at Kean, 3 are faculty, 2 alumni. SS: What is your vision in this production? HL: To move people forward in their appreciation of the American Dream, about what Success means in our country; to move forward in our thinking about race, about love, about harmony. SS: What is the message of RAGTIME? HL: Same sort of thing as above -- that to live together we

must understand one another and accept one another. Have we come a long way from 1906?

Show dates and times:

February 24, 25, March 2, 3, 4, at 8 pm February 26*, March 5, at 2 pm March 1, at 5 pm, followed by question-andanswer session with cast and staff March 3 at 10 am. Purchase your tickets through the Wilkins Theatre Box Office at 908-737-7469. For further information, contact Director Holly Logue, Chair of the Department of Theater at 908-737-4428.

For t h e K e a n U n i v e r s i t y s tu d e n t c o m mun i t y

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January 23, 2006

January 23, 2006 The COUGAR’S Byte

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“Balancing Family, Education, and Government”

All Photos Courtesy of the Graduate Student Government Association

 Janelle Alexander and Sandra Espinal showed a lot of heart walking in the Heart Walk in the rain!

 The GSGA executive board at their annual Holiday party!

 GSGA President, Janelle Alexander, at Pride Bowl 2005!

Playing An Important Role: The Graduate Student Government Association By Kaitlyn Davies, Staff Writer member Trevor Ramkissoon says, “To me GSGA means having the full college experience; it’s another level of being a graduate student. It helps me to be connected to the university community. Knowing that my voice and concerns are being heard by the university administration is powerful.”

 Coretta Grant, Jon Watkins Jr., and Janelle Alexander at Homecoming!

s the governing body for the graduate students of Kean University, Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA) listens to the concerns of graduate students, addresses these concerns with the administration and provides information to the graduate student community. Being heard by the administration is very important to the students; therefore GSGA works hard to ensure that the voice and concerns of all graduate students are heard. Another major goal of GSGA is to enhance the graduate experience at Kean University through programming, project funding, committee participation and increased opportunity for professional development for graduate students. Striving to support graduate students both in and out of the classroom, GSGA helps students get to know e a c h other and build a support system. GSGA

wanted to promote cohesion among the students. I am happy to say that with the assistance of the executive board and council members we have accomplished these two goals.” Janelle also says, “We have made the meetings fun again! We made the association a family outside people’s family.” One of the main goals was to let people know that the GSGA was there for All graduate students are automatically members the students-graduate or undergraduate; if you of this organization. There is, however, an had a problem, the GSGA wants you to know elected board of representatives (executive that you could go to them with your questions board) and a Council or concerns. The GSGA strives (those students who to maintain excellence and vote) who run the fairness among the students GSGA. The executive by helping anyone in need “We wanted to make board is run by four of help. GSGA president people: Janelle C. Janelle Alexander finds that the association a Alexander, President; being an active member on family outside of Jon Watkins Jr., Vice campus means many things President; Coretta her. She says, “As a student people’s other family!” to Grant, Treasurer; and leader, GSGA has given me Stephanie Scasso, the opportunity to meet many ~ Janelle Alexander Secretary. These graduate students and be GSGA President individuals run council their voice on campus. The meetings once a month networking and leadership during the Fall and opportunities, special Spring semesters. They along with the Council programming projects and the ability to be an plan and sponsor events held by GSGA and other active student are priceless.” associations on campus. GSGA was recently Many members of the GSGA have pleasant involved in Psyched About Wednesdays (PAW) things to say about how the organization has events as well as donating money to different helped them succeed with their graduate school associations such as the African Student experience. For example, GSGA member Association. They also were allotted 150 Pride Luz Mercedes said “I’m very pleased that I Bowl tickets that they donated to students and became an active member of the GSGA at Kean their families. GSGA was also involved in University. It has definitely influenced my life Welcome Back Week and Family Day events. as a graduate student. I now have a sense of They also attended the Homecoming festivities belonging. GSGA represents diversity, equality where they had a table set up for anyone who across the line and a group of graduate students had any questions about the association. They that are focused and well invested in the also were at the Leadership Retreat which takes graduate community of Kean University. The place during the Halloween weekend. The cohesiveness of the association also allows the association can be found at many of the events members to take part and remain active.” that Kean sponsors throughout the year. The GSGA has also sponsored graduate students When the newly elected President, Janelle on trips to further their education. GSGA Alexander, started she had two goals that she member Sultana Pashalidis says, “I would like wanted to accomplish this year. She said, “I to express my gratitude to The Graduate Student wanted to improve the public image of the Government Association for contributing to the association and give it more exposure. I also expenses of a most educational and rewarding

 Jon Watkins Jr. dealing Black Jack during Casino Night!

experience. sponsor more workshops It was only and networking nights. because the Networking is very important GSGA funded for students to succeed in the $1,200 toward this world and Rayna E. Harris, conference, that I was able to member of the GSGA, says, attend and catch more than a glimpse of history “GSGA has enhanced my life in the making. I attended the ‘Evolution for by offering me leadership Psychotherapy’ conference, held in Anaheim, and networking California and Master Therapists presented, opportunities. I most of whom were over the age of 80. Names have broadened my that I hope will be recognizable to all students education through from their Psychology 101 class include participation in Bandura, Ellis, Adams, as in ‘Patch Adams’ and GSGA by gaining others. The significance of my attendance to hands-on experience this conference includes the fact that it is held in real life issues and only once every 5 years and the ages of most of projects.” the presenters do not allow for the luxury of time. Also, “GSGA made me realize that I was one of The 8,000 attendees GSGA there are other people in my and the only is very situation who really care about student of Kean excited about their University upcoming endeavors Kean University and the things present. I was and about being a that go on here. It also enabled there to absorb part of this campus information to for years to come! me to be a part of another bring back to Janelle says, “We university-wide committee, from others in the know that some of field and to our members have which I have learned a great those interested. families so we would deal as a student and a person.” also like to do more Again, as a Kean University family oriented trips student of or events; things that ~ Natalie DiTerlizzi Marriage and people can bring their GSGA Member Family Therapy, whole family to so I was honored that more people can to attend this conference and it was only due to come!” An essential part of the Kean University the funding provided by the GSGA.” family, GSGA represents more than 2,700 parttime and full-time graduate students. Because of In the Spring semester, the GSGA would like to the busy schedules that graduate students keep, run more seminars to enhance their members’ playing an important role in making sure that all academics. They would also like to

graduate students have their voices heard by the administration is a huge responsibility for GSGA. GSGA member Phillip Lloyd says, “GSGA is a very good student organization; it is a foundation for motivation and the development of leadership skills. GSGA has impacted my life in many ways; it provides a forum for open discussions, debates and entertainment. I strongly urge graduate students to become more involved.” So all graduate students - get involved and make sure that your voice is heard. Kaitlyn Davies, freshman History major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

 The GSGA at one of the many events at Kean, Welcome Back Week!

 Jon Watkins Jr., Coretta Grant, and Janelle Alexander at the President’s Holiday Party!

 The GSGA showed compassion by walking in the Breast Cancer Walk.

Visi t o u r o n l i n e e d i t i o n at w w w. c o u g a r s b y t e . c o m

F or the Kean Uni versity student community

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January 23, 2006

The Early Bird Catches The Good Parking Spot! By Kaitlyn Davies, Staff Writer

s the popular old saying goes, the early bird catches the worm and here at Kean University it is so true. Every morning by 7:00 a.m. there are cars already parked in the white lined spaces designated for students. Rain or shine, the lots are sure to be filled with cars and the people driving them are determined to have their favorite spot no matter what building it’s in front of. Students feel that if they are here that early they have the ability to pick and choose any spot that they want as long as it is not outlined in yellow, making it a prestigious faculty spot. It can make students wonder, when did they get here in order to park in that prime location? With the population expanding so greatly here at Kean, parking spots have become something that students and even faculty must ardently search for. After the 9:30 a.m. classes, good parking spots are even harder to find. In this case, students must either go around campus to try again, follow people going to their cars, or just sit at the end of the rows and wait. The most important advice when it comes to the parking jungle is to be alert! Pay attention to who is backing out and pulling into spaces; this way, you can find a spot faster and avoid getting into any kind

students getting here so early, they have the pleasure of not having to walk far to their cars when they are tired from a long day of classes. No one looks forward to a long and tiresome walk to the car with all your books, especially when you are already tired after walking around all day. Some of the “early birds” who get here around 7:00 a.m. think it’s just easier then having to hunt down parking spots. For example, freshman, Debra Bodzioch, Elementary Education major says, “For my 8:00 a.m. class I leave my house at 7:00 a.m. just to be here at 7:30 a.m. for a good parking spot. I like 8:00 a.m. classes because I get prime parking and I am then able to leave early and go home; I have more time to do other things.” Taking early classes clears out your schedule and leaves more time later in the day to accomplish other important tasks or obligations.

of accident! Some commuters take the earlier classes because they know that they will be able to find a parking spot without a problem. Many of them get here around 7:00 a.m. so they can nap in their cars, enjoy a leisurely breakfast behind their steering wheel, or head over to the University Center to do some homework. By

Accessing The Kean Library Online Database Courtesy Consuelo Bonillas, Department of Health Education

ttention students, faculty and staff, if you are experiencing problems accessing the Kean University Library Databases from off-campus using your Library Barcode, please contact the Kean University Library. The Barcode Number should be entered in the log-in box at the top of the Library’s Database page (http://library.kean.edu/databases.htm). This 14-digit number should be entered without any spaces. When the Library Barcode is working properly, the following message should appear: “Logged in to library.kean.edu: Remote Database Access” Please report your name and Barcode number to the Library by e-mail, phone or in person. Ask a Reference Librarian http://library.kean.edu/WebRefLibrarian.htm Telephone Reference Desk (908) 737-4618 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Circulation Desk (908) 737-4629 Evenings and Weekends

So next time you get here around 11:00 a.m. and there are no good parking spots left, just remember that the “early birds” flew in early and got all of them. Don’t get mad – get hip to the idea of starting your day early and ending it stress-free! Kaitlyn Davies, freshman History major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Tips For Driving In The Winter By Jen Bissu, Senior Features Editor

riving in New Jersey can be scary enough in good weather—so now that it’s winter, you can expect driving to be much more treacherous! On the bright side, there are several measures you can take to make it less dangerous.

First of all, make sure you have winterized your vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued an estimate that almost 13 percent of automotive vehicle accidents are caused by mechanical problems. To reduce the likelihood of this happening to you, take your car to your mechanic for a complete winter checkup. The mechanic should check all fluids, belts and hoses, the electrical system, the battery, and the alternator. Make sure that your tires are in good shape and are rated for snow. If your car is due for a tune-up, make sure you get one! You want your car running at optimal capacity, particularly in harsh weather. Regardless of the weight of your car, it still helps to add extra weight to improve traction. Stop by your favorite home improvement store and pick up some sandbags to keep in your trunk. It will help weigh the car down so your tires can grip slippery surfaces better. Be sure to keep a winter survival kit in your trunk. This should consist of essentials such as bottled water, snacks, a blanket, a flashlight, batteries, gloves, and an extra set of clothes. You should also have flares, coolant/antifreeze, motor oil, power steering fluid, jumper cables (if you can afford the luxury, a battery jump box is a great investment—you never know when you’ll need it, and that way you won’t need a second car to provide the jumpstart), a small shovel, an ice-scraper/brush, ice-melting salt, and a bag of kitty litter. If your car gets stuck in the snow, pour kitty litter around your tires, and it will help them grip the slippery surface. You can keep all these items in a box, bin, or duffel bag in the trunk. You should also keep a car-compatible cell phone charger in your vehicle at all times—and program your roadside assistance club’s phone numbers in to your cell phone, along with a few towing service phone numbers.

Do You Really Know What Downs Hall Is All About? By Rich Lemonie, Multimedia Editor

irst thing you need to know about Downs Hall is that it’s for every student; you don’t need a meal plan to eat there. If you can’t make a certain meal during the times it’s available, just call 24hrs. in advance to let the staff know and they will prepare a boxed lunch for you ready to pick up the next morning. Downs Hall offers a wide variety of food and brand new this semester is Theme Nights which will occur twice a month with special foods pertaining to the theme that night. Plus it’s an all you can eat buffet, so feel free to have as many servings as you want as long as you stay in the Downs Hall area. Downs is the only place you are allowed to use your meal plan and your Cougar Dollars can be used anywhere else. Do take the opportunity to enjoy this delicious service provided by Gourmet Dining and Kean University. There hours of operation are: Weekdays- Breakfast: 7:00am-9:30am ($4.50) Lunch: 11:00am-1:30pm ($7.00) Dinner: 4:15pm-6:45pm ($8.50)

Weekends- Brunch: 11:00am-1:30pm ($7.50) Dinner: 4:15pm-6:45pm ($8.50)

Rich Lemonie, senior Fine Arts Photography major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Above all, drive carefully! AAA North Jersey’s Public and Government Services manager William Vesser stated that “approximately 75,000 crashes occur each year on snow and ice covered roadways in New Jersey, resulting in 20,000 injuries and ten fatalities.” Allow plenty of extra time to reach your destination—plan for bad driving conditions and slow traffic. Bring along a book or magazine so that you have something to do if you should happen to arrive early. Be extra careful when changing lanes—be sure to check your blind spots, and only change lanes if you’re absolutely sure it’s safe to do so. And make a conscious effort not to drive in others’ blind spots! You want the drivers around you to know you’re there, so they don’t accidentally crash into you. Try to keep empty space on either side of your car when you’re driving, so that in the event that you need to swerve out of the way to avoid an accident, you’ll have somewhere to go. Last but not least, remember to always wear your seat belt! If you follow these safety guidelines, you’ll make the roads safer for others, and for yourself! Jen Bissu, graduate Fine Art Education major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

V isit ou r o nl i n e e d i t i o n at www. c ouga r s b y t e . c o m

January 23, 2006

The COUGAR’S Byte

Page 7

university Center

MARTiN LuTHeR kiNG Week

inFormation desK P: (908) 737-5222 Monday-Thursday 7 am - 12 am Friday 7 am - 10 pm Saturday 10 am - 8 pm Sunday 10 am - 11 pm

Sponsored by Africana Studies Department Co-Curricular Credits Available. All programs and events are open to the public. Faculty are urged to bring their classes. Call the Ofﬁce of Africana Studies at (908) 737-3915 for further information.

Monday, January 23

Uc comPUter Lab Monday-Thursday 9 am - 11 pm Friday 9 am - 9 pm Saturday 10 am - 7 pm Sunday 10 am - 10 pm

“eyes on the Prize” Film series Episode 1, “Awakenings” and Episode 2, “Fight Back” from 12-3pm in UC 228.

Tuesday, January 24

doUGaLL comPUter Lab 24 Hours

“eyes on the Prize” Film series Episode 3, “Ain’t Scared of your Jails” from 12-2pm in UC 228.

marKetPLace Monday-Thursday Friday

Kean’s Faculty Panel discussion Join Kean’s Faculty for this panel discussion entitled “Reflections on Eyes on the Prize” from 2-4pm in UC 228. Invited guest panelist include: Dr. Barbara Wheeler, Dr. Melodie Toby, Ms. Eleanor McKnight, Dr. Irwin Nesoff, and Dr. Morgan Laury. Moderator: Dr. James Conyers.

booKstore Monday-Thursday Friday

Wednesday, January 25

P: (908) 737-5230 9 am - 8 pm 9am - 5pm

caFeteria Food coUrt Monday-Thursday 7 am - 7 pm Friday 7 am - 3 pm

“eyes on the Prize” Film series Episode 4, “No Easy Walk” and Episode 5, “Mississippi: Is this America?” from 12-3pm in UC 228.

snacK bar Monday-Thursday Friday-Saturday Sunday

Thursday, January 26 “eyes on the Prize” Film series Episode 6, “Bridge to Freedom” from 12-2pm in UC 228. discussion with reverend aikens Come enjoy the dicussion entitled “Non-Violence Can Cause a Riot” presented by Reverend Eddie E. Aikens from 2-4pm in UC 228.

9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 4 pm

Fashion show Tryouts! do you have what it takes? models wanted. We want you! Bring walking shoes and confidence to downs hall, dining room 1 from 8-10 pm on January 3, 4, and 5.

Q&A With u.s. department of state diplomat in Residence

Courtesy of Alexandra L. Wood, Center for International Studies

11 am - 11 pm 3 pm - 9 pm 4 pm - 10 pm

starbUcKs/coFFee hoUse Monday-Thursday 11 am - 9 pm ice cream ParLor Monday - Thursday 11 am - 7 pm Friday 11 am - 3 pm GAME ROOM Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

11 am - 10 pm 11 am - 8 pm 12 pm - 7 pm 4 pm - 9 pm

Hours Subject to Change

ean University’s Center for International Studies is pleased to host Jim Carragher, Diplomat in Residence from the U.S. Department of State, for a presentation and Question & Answer session on careers in the U.S. Foreign Service. The event is open to the campus community and refreshments will be served. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about exciting careers abroad! Come join us on Friday, January 27, 2006 from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm in the University Center, room 226.

Hours of operation downs hall dining Breakfast 7 am - 9:30 am Lunch 11 am - 1:30 pm Dinner 4:15 pm - 8:00 pm Weekend Brunch 11am - 1:30pm

CouGAR ATHLeTiCs MeN’s BAskeTBALL Wed. Jan. 25 Sat. Jan. 28 Wed. Feb. 1 Sat. Feb. 4

Ramapo College The College of New Jersey Rowan University New Jersey City University

WoMeN’s BAskeTBALL Wed. Jan. 25 Sat. Jan. 28 Wed. Feb. 1 Sat. Feb. 4

overaLL: 0-0

Home - 8PM Away - 1PM Away - 6PM Home - 3PM

overaLL: 00-0

Ramapo College The College of New Jersey Rowan University New Jersey City University

nJac: 0-0

nJac: 0-0 Home - 6PM Away - 3PM Away - 8PM Home - 1PM

iNdooR TRACk & FieLd Fri. Jan 27 Sat. Jan. 28 Sat. Feb. 4

Bucknell Invitational Bucknell Invitational DeSchriver Invitational

TBA - Bucknell University TBA - Bucknell University 9AM - East Stroudsburg Univ.

For updated scores and schedules, please visit http://www.keanathletics.com.

For t h e K e a n U n i v e r s i t y s t U d e n t c o m m U n i t y

east campus PooL & Fitness rooms P: (908) 737-5803 Monday-Thurs. 12:30 pm - 9:30 pm Friday 12:30 pm - 5 pm Saturday-Sunday 10 am - 2 pm nancy thomPson Library P: (908) 737-4618 Monday-Thursday 8 am - 12 am Friday 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 4 pm Sunday 1 pm - 10 pm stUdent technoLoGy Lab P: (908) 737-5236 monday-thursday 8 am - 1 am Friday 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 5 pm sunday 1 pm - 10 pm Hours Subject to Change

Page The COUGAR’S Byte

January 23, 2006

A Leader In The Making

GAFA Plans Art Show

By Rich Lemonie, Multimedia Editor

By Jen Rubino, Staff Writer

any freshman entering college aren’t sure about getting involved on campus, but this freshman is already getting his foot wet. One can say foot instead of feet, because you might remember Chris Stanford, an Earth Science and Secondary Education major, making his way around campus by means of crutches for most of his first semester. Chris broke is left shin during a friendly game of football with his buddies and the cast and crutches became Chris’ trademark. Although his injury has stopped him from volunteering on a handful of projects, it hasn’t slowed him down here at Kean.

office or as a State Trooper, pending his decision of taking on Criminal Justice as a minor, which he is currently contemplating.

When he isn’t so busy with coaching hockey, traveling with his father, and becoming a valued leader on campus, Chris enjoys perfecting his bass playing and working on cars. One day he would like to own a ’69 Camaro, but doubts he’ll get that chance, because in the near future, cars won’t be running on gas anymore. The one outrageous thing he wants to do before he dies is be part of the polar bear plunge where he would Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte swim in the ocean during Chris, who lives with his dad Chris Stanford keeps busy with school, life, and the winter! Although and their dog Rusty, comes campus involvement with a smile on his face. Chris is a newbie to the from quite a historical family, leadership role, he seems whose father’s family fought in highly capable of taking on any task Kean has to offer the Revolutionary War over two hundred years ago. Chris loves him, as long as he keeps his limbs in good health. Kean’s atmosphere, it’s perfect for him even with his half hour to one and a half hour commute, depending on the traffic from his home Lincoln Park. But Chris only lives there nine months out of the year; the other three months of the year he spends living down the shore on his boat in Point Pleasant where he enjoys one of his Rich Lemonie, senior Fine Arts Photography major, is a favorite past times, salt water fishing. member of The Cougar’s Byte staff. “I wasn’t planning on being involved on campus, I just met the right people who showed me the plus side to being involved,” says Chris of not thinking how caught up he was going to be with campus life. Currently Chris is a class representative “I wasn’t planning for the Class of 2009 on being involved on and a member of the Criminal Justice campus, I just met Student Association and the Political the right people who Science Student showed me the plus Association. By the side to being involved.” end of this semester he would like to continue ~ Chris Stanford his involvement in Student Organization of Kean University Inc. and other campus groups. It looks like the campus involvement bug has bitten Chris. Outside the walls of Kean, Chris is an assistant hockey coach in the fall for a group of younger kids, is a coach for the Hockey Club at Montclair State University, and has also coached his seventeen year old sister’s hockey team. Occasionally Chris accompanies his father, an industrial engineer, on business trips to such countries as Canada, Mexico, and Venezuela, he also assists his father on various carpentry and remodeling jobs. Although Chris is skillful with these hands-on types of jobs, his goal is to become a high school Science teacher and possibly work for the sheriff’s

ast year, The Graduate Association of Fine Arts was created to help graduate students prepare for their thesis exhibition in the spring. The group is advised by Professor Jappie King Black, who works with the Fine Arts students to prepare and plan the exhibit. Every spring, Graduate art students display their work in the James-Howe Gallery and this year’s highly anticipated Graduate show will take place in April 2006. Each student is working hard to create their pieces for the show. One member of the group, RoseAnn LaBrocca, is currently working on her projects; she is a full time elementary art teacher and her concentration is painting. She is experienced with mixed media, including acrylic paints and fibers. RoseAnn LaBrocca is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and has worked as a dress designer, as well. Her art is significant to her because she is able to see herself and express her life in her artwork. “It took searching and experimentation to finally be able to discover that many of my life experiences were reflected in my work,” says RoseAnn. Meetings for GAFA are held on Wednesday nights in Vaughn Eames-211. Most of the members of GAFA are teaching full time and working on their M.A. in Studio Art at night. Meetings consist of individual presentations and reviews. They also work to produce the thesis show in the spring. The thesis show consists of all the students’ work produced during their final year of graduate school; the work for the show will be chosen during the final review in February. Each student’s work represents the conclusion of their study in their chosen media, as well as what they have learned along the way. The final products of these students will encompass all the skills learned during their graduate studies in Fine Arts. Jen Rubino, junior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Kean’s Garden Of Eden By Irene Murema, Staff Writer

n Kean’s very own campus, there lies a place that has been shut down for years, without the hope of reopening again. But after twelve years, the doors of the green house are once more open for the beauty of the plants to be viewed by all. In 1983, the green house on campus closed down and since then, it has lied dormant and uninviting until it caught the attention of Dr. Eric Hayat, who is a full time Biology professor on campus. It took a lot of work to get the green house up and running: a $5,000 donation from Provost’s office, support from President Farahi, Dean Pablo, Professor Kassem, members of the Office of Facilities and Campus Planning and a lot of helping hands from Dr. Hayat’s class. Many of them helped to clean away the fungi and algae that had taken over the facility, among other things. When the new school year began, the green house proudly stood out as the allglass-building hosting a lot of different plant species. It is presently functionally equipped with a sprinkler system, centrally controlled heating system and special lighting to benefit the plants. To keep the plants alive, the sprinklers automatically go on at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and the temperature

School of Thought

Irene Murema | The Cougar’s Byte A rare species of the cactus plant blooming with life and spikes.

is kept steady at 75 degrees Celsius.

Sponsored by the Kean University Office of Undergraduate Admissions

The green house, which is currently maintained by the Biology department, serves a site for teaching, plant collecting and research. The research that is in progress is focused on Soya beans and finding out about their molecular genes. The facility is open to students and faculty and if you love nature, then you would probably like to relax around the splendor of the plants, and just meditate. The plants that are found in the green house range from the more indigenous Chinese lantern, Turtlehead and Bridal veil vine to the more exotic Passi Flora, Bougainvillea and many more. Plans are underway to get tropical plants and see how well they might flourish in this type of climate. Hayat wishes to cordially thank the Director of Facilities Juan Tenreirro, who did an amazing job at pioneering the repairs. Students and faculty are encouraged to visit the green house and see the beautiful plants that are grown there. The facility is open for the benefit of the University at large. If you need more information about the green house, feel free to contact Hayat at 908-737-3659 or Kassem at 908-737-3671.

Answers from the 1/17/06 Issue.

Irene Murema | The Cougar’s Byte A beautiful tulip is also part of the beautiful flowers that are grown at the green house.

Irene Murema, freshman Biology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

V isit ou r o nl i n e e d i t i o n at www. c ouga r s b y t e . c o m