VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 13
A STUDENT LIFE & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PUBLICATION FOR THE KEAN UNIVERSITY STUDENT COMMUNITY
DECEMBER 5, 2005
Showing Some Love This Holiday Season By Rajul Punjabi, Assistant Editor
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Ashantè Barnes | The Cougar’s Byte
Donell McAllister, sophomore Early Childhood Education with English major, reads The Cougar’s Byte because “I like to see what is going on with events on campus. Especially those I missed.” Get caught reading The Cougar’s Byte and get your picture prominently displayed on the front page.
ith the holiday season in full gear, it’s easy to get caught up in the gifts and the food and the extra time with family and friends. Though it’s unfortunate, there are many people out there this winter that don’t have the luxuries that many of us take for granted. During the week before Thanksgiving, which is National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, some of us were daydreaming about how many slices of pie we would be devouring on Thanksgiving, while others were working hard at the New Jersey Community Food Bank in Hillside. On Kean Volunteer Day, which was on Saturday, November 19th, 67 members of Kean’s student body, faculty, and staff gathered at the food bank to help sort and pack food and other grocery items in boxes to be shipped out to shelters that provide food to those most in need throughout the state.
Courtesy of Joel M. Thomas (top) Freshmen woke up at 8:00am to donate their time and help out at the NJ Community Food Bank. (left) Joel M. Thomas, the Community Services Coordinator and student volunteer Thea Narkiewicz take a second to pose for a picture as they work hard to help sort and pack various items for those in need.
Joel Thomas, Kean University Alumnus, who is also the Community Services Coordinator, said, “Kean Volunteer Day is truly one of the few times in a busy year of programming where diverse members of our campus community can connect on a purely humanistic level. Those that continue to participate year after year understand what it means to be a member of the Kean family and SEE ‘HOLIDAY’ ON PAGE 8
A Night Full Of Tradition And Culture By Irene Murema, Staff Writer
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ovember 14th through the 18th was a week to remember; the Africana Studies department held events throughout the week to commemorate African culture. A number of activities took place in the University Center’s room 228b; some of which included lectures and films showing how elaborate the African way of life is and their different types of tradition that are one of a kind. The African Students Association, one of the many prominent groups that are found on campus also had their fair share in commemorating the African tradition on African Awareness Day, which was a special time set aside to honor customs and celebrate this rich culture.
The Face Behind The Glass By Angela M. Barrett, Staff Writer
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f you’re an on-campus resident you know that before you enter your building you must have your card swiped. You know that if your card swipes green you’ll get buzzed in. If your card swipes red, you will be asked for proof that you are actually a resident of the building that you are trying to enter. You’ll be asked to verify your first and last name, room number, and your student I.D. number as well. Sounds pretty strict doesn’t it? Well, students are the most valuable entities here at Kean, so security is tight. The person that is responsible for all the interrogation would be the desk assistant, or DA of the resident hall.
shifts, seven days a week anywhere from eight a.m. until 12 a.m. DA’s are just like the standard student - they have classes and personal lives outside of the desk and the buzzer. Aside from DA’s there are also DM’s or desk mangers, who are also Kean students that became nominated from a previous DA into the position that they now hold.
DA’s work the desk different
Angela M. Barrett | The Cougar’s Byte
Irene Murema | The Cougar’s Byte ASA president, Sarian Samura, senior Political Science and English major, takes time out for a picture with two club members.
SEE ‘ASA’ ON PAGE 4
(left) Junior Sheena Summers, Broadcast Journalism major, works the desk in Bartlett Hall. Sheena always greets residents with a smile like the one she has here. (top) Junior Bobby Morgan, Elementary education major, inspects the card of a resident to verify if it is actually the person standing before him.
Junior Watasha Richardson, Psychology and Psychiatric major is the desk manager of the resident hall, Sozio. She first became a DA her sophomore year because she was inspired by a friend that was also DA, who recommended the job. Watasha worked as a DA during her sophomore year, when she was nominated and later became a DM. When asked about the best part of being a DM Watasha responded,” Being a desk manager helps me with my managerial skills. I’m able to incorporate things into the system by setting up rules and regulations for my DAs.” DMs have a lot of responsibility, they are always on call. DMs create the schedule for the desk making sure that the area is always SEE ‘DA’ ON PAGE 8
FOR T HE KE AN UNI V E RS I T Y S T UDE NT CO MM U N I T Y
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The COUGAR’S Byte
W E AT H E R O U T L O O K For updated forecasts visit http://hurri.kean.edu/~keancast.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2005 HI: 34 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.
LO: 29 TUES. 12/6
WED. 12/7
THURS. 12/8
HI: 36
HI: 31
HI: 28
LO: 28
LO: 20
LO: 18
FRI. 12/9
SAT. 12/10
SUN. 12/11
HI: 36
HI: 52
HI: 39
LO: 22
LO: 31
LO: 34
Kean University American Meteorological Society/National Weather Association
Spotlight On The Association Of Indian Students (AIS)
Assistant Editor Rajul Punjabi Features Jen Bissu, Senior Editor Staff Writers Angela M. Barrett Kaitlyn Davies Debra Y. Ekpo Maurice Fraction Donyel Griffin Katrina Manzano Irene Murema Jennifer Rubino Multimedia Rich Lemonie, Editor Ashanté S. Barnes, Specialist Circulation Manager Ryan Matthews Student Media Managing Editor Toni M. Cerbo
The COUGAR’S Byte
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Congressman Menendez Speaks At Kean
By Rory Yelen, President of The Math Club
n Monday, November 21, 2005, Robert Menendez, the Democratic congressman representing New Jersey’s thirteenth congressional district, visited Kean University to speak on several key issues affecting our state and nation today. New Jersey’s thirteenth district consists of part of Hudson, Essex, Union and Middlesex Counties including part of the City of Elizabeth, NJ. The lecture was organized by the K.U. College Democrats, Political Science Student Association, Association of Latin American Students (ALAS), and Political Science Masters Program.
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ome join the Math Club! Students in any major associated with math (math and science, math education, computer science, etc.) are encouraged to join! It’s a great way to meet with other peers that you have classes with. It’s also a great way to meet professors and faculty that may stop by or give presentations. At previous Math Club meetings we have shared ideas and opinions about math courses, learned about matrices that make up the pixilation of a digital picture, made friends with our peers, and had competition games with math puzzles and brain teasers. We have even offered to find help for any math student who may be having trouble in a particular course.
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re you looking to be involved in something that will open your mind to South Asian culture? Well look no further - The Association of Indian Students, a funded group of the Student Organization of Kean University is an opportunity for students of Indian descent to come together with one purpose, which is unity. The mission of AIS is to spread culture and encourage a sense of pride for Kean’s diversity. AIS constantly strives to embrace this diversity, given that the members represent all ethnic groups including Gujarati, Punjabi, Bangali and Muslim students. On
December 5, 2005
Calling All Math Majors!
by Ashanté S. Barnes, Staff Writer
By Scott K. Snowden, Jr., Associate Editor
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Following a welcome by Dr. Charles Boatang and Dr. Charles Kelly, faculty members of the Political Science Department, Kean University President Dawood Farahi gave a brief introduction for Congressman Menendez. Dr. Farahi described the congressman as “one of Kean’s congressmen.” “Anytime we asked for his help, he was there for us,” stated Dr. Farahi, as he emphasized Menendez’s commitment to keeping college affordable. Dr. Farahi then introduced Muhammad Masood, a senior Political Science major and President of the K.U. College Democrats. Masood, who helped arrange the congressman’s visit, felt it “would be a great learning experience for the Kean student body and would hopefully spur an increase in student political activism.” Out of all of New Jersey’s elected officials, Masood said the congressman was at the top of their list because “he has been a great advocate for progressive causes, he has a compelling life story, is strong on education issues in general, and is a great friend of Kean University.” Before speaking, Congressman Menendez was honored by the members of the Alpha Chapter of Lambda Phi Alpha Latin Fraternity, Inc., in which Menendez is a member, for his outstanding service his community, the people of New Jersey and Latinos in general. Congressman Menendez was the son of two immigrants living in Union City. When he was just 19 years old, he organized a
successful petition campaign to have the Union City Board of Education converted to an elected board from a politically corrupt appointed board. The following year, he was elected into the Board of Education. He continued to stand up against the corruption in Union City, ultimately testifying against the city’s mayor and running against him even though it meant
Scott Snowden | The Cougar’s Byte (top) Muhammad Masood President of the K.U. College Democrats, Congressman Robert Menendez, President Dawood Farahi, and Mayor of Elizabeth J. Christian Bollwage. (left) Congressman Menendez poses with some of his Lambda Phi Alpha Latin Fraternity Inc. brothers.
Scott Snowden | The Cougar’s Byte
having to wear a bullet proof vest following very serious death threats. Menendez was later elected mayor of Union City, then to the state legislature, before being elected to represent New Jersey in the United States House of Representatives in 1992. As a member of the House of Representatives, Congressman Menendez has risen to the position of chairperson of the Democratic Caucus, the third highest ranking Democrat in the House of Representatives and the highest ranking Hispanic in the history of the United States Congress. In Congress, Menendez has been a strong advocate of making college more affordable. “If it were not for federal loans and grants, I would not have been able to go to college. I would not have gone to law school
and I would not be standing before you today as a United States Congressman,” proclaimed Menendez to the lecture hall full of students and faculty in Hennings Hall. In addition to his support for higher education, Menendez has worked toward making health care more affordable, protecting Social Security and defending one of the nation’s largest ports, the Port of Elizabeth and Newark. In his closing remarks before taking questions from students, Menendez stressed the importance of serving ones community because we all have a responsibility to our community. “It’s not about me, it’s about we,” stated Menendez. Congressman Robert Menendez is one of three New Jersey Congressman who have stated interest in Governor-elect Jon Corzine’s soon-to-be-vacant United States Senate seat. Scott Snowden, senior double major in Public Administration and History, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Wednesday,
$CHOLARSHIPS
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.
December 5, 2005
Courtesy of Rory Yelen (top) Several members of the Math Club discuss club news. (bottom) Vice President Mike Wieczorek, President Rory Yellen, and Secretary Jesse Evans pose in front of some math problems they diligently worked on.
November 9, 2005 at 3:30 in Henning’s Hall room 104 president Megha Patel lead the meeting discussing their upcoming Diwali Dinner. Annually, AIS celebrates Diwali, which is the celebration of lights; this time also Ashanté S. Barnes | The Cougar’s Byte commemorates the Hindu New Year. The event was a great success this year - the event sold out for the first time in years. In October, they set up a table in UC Atrium to apply Henna, an authentic Indian form of body art, on anyone who was interested. The talented ladies of AIS drew intricate floral and other designs on the hands and arms of many students. All accomplished organizations know that careful planning is the key to success, so the AIS is working on their future endeavors.
The monthly meetings are held on Wednesdays in Bruce Hall. Flyers are always posted at least one week in advance before each meeting. The next meeting will be on Wednesday, December 14th in Bruce Hall room 210 from 3:30 – 5:00pm (College Hour). For more information, feel free to contact Rory Yelen at yelenr@kean.edu. Rory Yelen, senior double major in Elementary Education and Math, is a contributing writer to The Cougar’s Byte.
Jersey Shore Public Relations and Advertising Assoc. Scholarships For Communications Applications available online at www.jspraa.com. For more information contact Margaret Valliere at mvalliere@monocfcu. com or 732.341.3550 ext 608. The JSPRAA announces its 2005 James R. McCormick Memorial Scholarship, open to students residing in Ocean or Monmouth County studying communications, public relations, journalism or advertising as a major course of study. Award available to undergraduate students only. The deadline is December 9, 2005.
Freedom Forum NCAA Sports Journalism Scholarship Applications available online at www.ncaa.org. For more information, contact Sports Journalism Scholarship Committee at (317) 917-6477. The Freedom Forum, in cooperation with the NCAA, is seeking scholarship applications from current full-time juniors with career goals in sports journalism, majors in journalism or experience in campus sports journalism. Eight $3000 scholarships will be awarded to assist applicants in their senior year of study. Deadline is December 9, 2005.
In February, they will hold Bhangra and Garba night, which is sure to be a hit since people seemed to enjoy the music that the DJ played at the Diwali Dinner. The night will be filled with all types of dance, from traditional dance to modern; so, if you think you have the right moves, make sure you mark the date on your calendar!. And on a more serious note, the AIS recognizes that since this is the time of year to give, and many of the members will be volunteering at the Food Bank in Hillside on Thanksgiving. The members are also looking forward to their semi annual bake sale.
Vice President, Kevin Bhatt; Era Patel Treasurer; Dharati Patel Secretary, and Director of Public Relations Saad Jilani.
The executive board is comprised of President, Megha Patel;
Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
AIS Executive board 2005-2006 Saad Jillian, Dhariti Patel, Megah Patel, Era Patel and Kevin Bhatt.
If you are interested in joining or getting involved with the Association for Indian Student please call 908-737-5190 for more information.
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AWS Foundation, Inc Scholarships The AWS Foundation is dedicated to meeting the needs for education and research in the field of welding and related joining technologies. Building welding’s future through education. Individual applications available online at www.aws.org/foundation For more information email nprado-pulido@aws.org or call 1 (800) 443-9353 ext 250. Deadline January 15, 2006.
Datatel Scholars Foundation Scholarships 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.
Women’s Studies Scholarship 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.
Sema Memorial Scholarship Program 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) 3960289 for an application. Deadline is April 28, 2006.
Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad Scholarships 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.
Elie Wiesel Foundation For Humanity Essay Contest Holocaust Resource Center Announces the Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Conttest 2006. The contest is sponsored by the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity. It challenges students to identify, define and analyze contemporary ethical questions, issues or dilemmas. It is open only to full-time undergraduate juniors and seniors enrolled in an acredited, four year college or university in the United States. First Prize, $5000, Second Prize, $2500, Third Prize, 1500, and 2 Honorable Mentions, $500 each. For further information and applications please contact Helen Walzer at 908-737-4661.
FOR THE KEAN UNIVERSITY STUDENT COMMUNITY
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ASA
December 5, 2005
The event first commenced with the opening speech from one professor by the name of Dr. Charles Boateng, from the Political Science department. He expressed his encouragement for the African students to be proud of their heritage and culture and to continue working hard in school so they could be able to make their motherland, Africa, a better place for the future generations. He also strongly cautioned them not to forget their backgrounds and the problems that are presently
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Last Of The PAW Events
(continued from Page 1)
On the evening of Thursday the 17th at 6:30 p.m., the University Center was full of eager students from all walks of life who were scrambling for a seat in room 228. The cause for commotion was that the African Students Association was hosting a gathering to celebrate the African culture. There was food, drink and great entertainment, all for free, which drew a great crowd.
December 5, 2005
By Irene Murema, Staff Writer
going on in Africa and to continue pressing forward the African unity. After that remarkable speech, testimonials from the movie ”Sarafina” were given. In the discussion, they basically touched on the brutality and the violation of human rights that the citizens suffered about a decade ago in South Africa as they were fighting for their independence. Steppers for a free nation also stole the show when they preformed step Irene Murema | The Cougar’s Byte dances using beats from songs (top left) An example of the beautiful African regalia like Missy Eliot’s “Lose control” that was displayed that night. (top) The Steppers and other fast paced hip hop for a Free Nation impressed the audience with their songs. A skit was performed by one of a kind stepping. (bottom left) The event the students, which was about attracted all ages…old and young alike! the values of marriage. Two traditional dances also were performed which were exhilarating and simply breathtaking. There was also a fashion show that had beautiful presentations; the students were dressed in the outfits worn were original African regalia. The event was then wrapped up with a delicious selection of African food that was mouth watering and irresistible to the students. The food ranged from the likes of chicken and beef stew to spiced rice and steamed beans. The purpose of African Awareness Day was to celebrate African tradition and ignite a sense of unity among the students of Kean . Sarian Samura, ASA president, said that one of the club’s missions is to try to make people understand that Africa is not all about the poverty and disease. Their main purpose is to stop the negative stereotyping of Africa as the Dark Continent and help promote the majestic and spiritual influence the great continent has on the world.
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AW Wednesdays have finally come to an end after a successful fun filled month. Each week, on Wednesdays, activities were held on campus to celebrate the Kean spirit that we treasure so much. Students had an opportunity to indulge in different activities that suited their tastes and preferences, keeping in mind that Kean is home to diversity. Activities that took place during this semester were definitely worth the time of the students who participated in them. From the heart of Latin America came the exotic salsa classes that entertained many. Some actually learned how to dance moves like the cross-body-lead, which would probably come in handy during this holiday season when you want to impress somebody. Others got a chance to experience how it feels to be hypnotized, while some other curious students found out what the future holds for them. Also, Kean students were entertained by comedians who sent them cracking and also poets who gave a marvelous performance. This is to name just a few of the activities that took place. On Wednesday, November, 30, 2005, the last day of the PAW events, there was picture taking with the cougar during college hour and a showing of “Four Brothers”, a movie, in the University Center Little Theatre, including the usual delicious breakfast, lunch time diversion and salsa classes. Students who participated got to enjoy the very last of this semester’s events, which left them to wonder just what next semester will hold in store.
Irene Murema, freshman Biology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
One thing is certain though, the events served their purpose: to bring the Kean students together under the umbrella of unity and harmony. The need for these qualities cannot be expressed enough because without unity, Kean would not be as prestigious as it presently is. Carlos Miranda, Junior, criminal justice major, one of the many students who actively participated in the events, felt that “it was a great program” and he hopes that it continues during the future semesters. He added that the “PAW events served as a fun on-campus-getaway for the whole Kean community”. Tristine Harris, senior, Business major, said that “she loved the dance classes especially the cross- bodylead and hopes that next semester will have equally fun activities”.
How Good Is Your AIM? By Kaitlyn Davies, Staff Writer
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pon entering Kean University as a freshman, you are assigned many things. You are assigned an e-mail account, a class schedule, a transition to Kean instructor, and finally an Academic Instructional Mentor (AIM). You know what an e-mail account is, you know your class schedule, and you know something about the instructors. But do you know about AIMs or that they used to be called peer liaisons? AIM stands for academic and instructional mentor and that’s exactly what they do. AIMs help the instructor teach a one credit course specifically designed for freshmen entitled Transition to Kean (T2K). AIMs are fellow Kean students whose mission is to help freshman with their transition from high school into college. AIMs meet with their assigned class and fellow instructor once a week to go over any problems that the students feel haven’t been addressed anywhere else. They also make sure that their students go to three mandatory events before the end of the first semester. One of the best parts of the AIM program is that the instructors meet with their students one-on-one to go over specific information such as careers, commuting or living on campus, and problems with professors or students. Guidance like
this can be a great tool to have a successful beginning at Kean! The AIMs are mentors for the freshman in their class, and are a source for advice on what classes to take, how to handle situations that they might not have faced in high school and just to have a familiar face while walking around campus. While being a freshman is very nerve racking it’s nice to meet someone at
Irene Murema, freshman Biology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Kaitlyn Davies The Cougar’s Byte
orientation and have them help you set-up your e-mail account, make your Fall schedule, and sign up for three workshops that all freshmen have to attend. When asked about what the best thing was about having an AIM, freshman, Marketing major Rob Cuttito said,” My AIM in particular keeps the teacher on track and keeps the drama down.” So, as you can see, being an AIM requires playing many roles. Freshman, Interior Design major, Jennifer Spiegel said,” They are very helpful. They keep you
(top) Gladly helping students, Academic Instructional Mentors (AIMs) keep things running smoothly in the CAS Building. (left) Students patiently wait to get help figuring out how to register from the AIMs! (bottom) After getting help from the AIMs, these girls were all smiles!
updated on events on campus and push you to do your best in classes.” And all students need a little encouragement sometimes, especially when they haven’t completely established the direction of their college career. When asked why he became an AIM, Alejandro Batlle, Senior, Health and Physical Education major said,” It’s a convenient job on campus, it has decent pay, and it gets me very involved on campus! I get to know what is going on, on campus and I feel like I’m in the know. Also because I’m an Education major it gets me prepared for the work that I will be doing in the future.” Most AIMs feel that being in the program gets them ready to go out into the real
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world and become successful. The AIMs are also great role models for the incoming freshmen. They can show you how to get involved and make this time here at Kean University the best years of your life. They tell you that the best way to make Kean somewhere that you want to be is to get involved and truly enjoy everything that you are doing here on campus. The trick to getting the most out of your college experience is to make Kean your home away from home. Kaitlyn Davies, freshman History major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
FOR THE KEAN UNIVERSITY STUDENT COMMUNITY
The COUGAR’S Byte
December 5, 2005
December 5, 2005
The COUGAR’S Byte
The Celebration Of An American Original
In the book, Brower describes the artistic works of Guthrie, as well as details about his life. He mentions his daughter, Nora Guthrie, and how she discovered her father’s secret stash of art that included hundreds of drawings, cartoons, Jen Rubino | The Cougar’s Byte illustrations and watercolors. It is unknown if Woody Guthrie ever had any artistic training, but many of his illustrations border the line between sophisticated art Professor Steven Brower publishes Woody and political cartoons. His style of art mirrors his style of living, according to his Guthrie Artworks: The Journals, Drawings, daughter, Nora; it is the work of an independent spirit that lives fast, spontaneous, and Sketchbook of an American Original this impulsive self-taught and straight from the heart. His daughter is the co-founder November. and director of the Woody Guthrie Archives in New York City. Guthrie said, “I wanted to be my own boss. Have my own job of work whatever it was, and be on my own hook.” Art became not only a way of survival for him, but his way to experience life to its fullest potential, according to Brower. Steven Brower is an award-winning graphic designer and writer working in New York City in addition to teaching at Kean. He also works at the School of Visual Arts in New York City and Marywood University in Pennsylvania. With his latest accomplishment of writing this book, he celebrates Woody Guthrie as an inspiring and impressive artist with an outsider spirit. Jen Rubino, junior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Making The Most Of Your Winter Break by Jen Bissu, Senior Feature Editor
D Courtesy of Office of Student Life & Leadership Development
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hat has been Tom Malloy’s motto since he was in grade school. He creates miracles in his everyday actions and continues to follow his life path, having fun at every step. Mr. Malloy, a professional actor, producer/director, writer, dancer, stand-up comic, singer and magician and motivational speaker presented a workshop entitled “How to Get What You Want and Have Fun Doing It,” for the S.A.G.E. ( Seeking Alternate Growth Experiences ) a leadership program for part-time, graduate and returning adult student, on Friday, November 18th.
on’t waste your winter break! With the right thought and planning, you can make great use of the break so you’re refreshed and raring to go come the start of the spring semester. Instead of just “vegging out” watching television, there are several ways to use your time well.
Take a trip to a ski resort to go skiing or snowboarding! These are great winter activities. It will give you a chance to do something you don’t usually get to do, it’s fun, and it’s good exercise. Put yourself on a stringent fitness regimen. This is the time to start getting in shape—don’t wait until the weather starts getting warm! Besides, it’s hard to find time to do a major physical overhaul during the busy semester—so make winter break the “boot camp” training, and then you can spend the upcoming semester eating right, working out 3 times a week, and maintaining your great shape. Take a short vacation with friends. If you can afford the travel fare, it’s a great time to go someplace warm like Florida. But wherever you go, as long as you’re in good company, you’ll come back feeling refreshed and ready to take on anything (including the new semester)! Prepare for your classes next semester. If you are taking a class for which you can familiarize yourself with the material ahead of time, that’s a great way to get a head start! For instance, if you’re taking a foreign language or painting, try learning what you can and practicing over the break—it will put you at an advantage once school starts in January! Work on your hobbies that you’ve neglected all year! It’s hard to find time for leisure activities when you’re so caught up in the bustle of the semester. So take this opportunity to spend some quality time with yourself, doing things you love—whether it’s model car building, reading, drawing, or cooking! Well, you see there are many worthwhile things you can do with your winter break. So don’t let it go to waste—start planning for it now! Jen Bissu, graduate Fine Art Education major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Courtesy of Office of Student Life & Leadership Development
The Celebration Of A Majestic Motherland By Debra Ekpo, Staff Writer
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he celebration, which was sponsored by The Africana Studies Club on November 15th-17th, 2005, was held at the University Center of Kean University. It’s purpose was to encourage an understanding of African studies through lectures, panel discussions and film showcases. All programs and events were open to the public, staff, and students. Hosted by Dr. Conyers of the Africana Studies Department, the event was filled with, many of the other faculty members of the department who were there to present the programs. The theme of the celebration was African education at the crossroads; The Pan African perspective among the topics of discussion were: Identification and Race: the Psychological Impact of the “N” Word, 400 years without a comb, African-Centered Education: Raising the Achievement Bar. Dr. Sharon Boyd-Jackson Prof. of Kean University started her presentation the Impact of the “N” word by saying “I am here because I am concerned with our children.” The “N” word is a word that is so ingrained into the African American psyche that it has a negative impact on every aspect of the lives of the community, and especially the lives of our children. Parents of children that are depressed must be careful about how they handle delicate topics, which is why forums of this nature are so important and serve as tool of enlightenment and healing. When asked how she feels about the “N” word being used so freely by rappers, Dr. Boyd-Jackson’s response was, “such use is detrimental to the race and to the children and it is impossible to take the sting out of the word because when someone of another culture uses the word it has a whole another connotation all together. Kenya Smith-Bey, a senior Psychology major, when asked what motivated her to attend the forum, stated “I have a keen desire to embrace many levels of cultural awareness and knowledge. Being familiar with Dr. Boyd Jackson and Dr. Conyers, I’m always sure that the content would be powerful. Dr. Melodie Toby, of Kean University’s Philosophy and Religion department, discussed the topic of African-Centered Education: Raising the Achievement Bar. Dr. Toby stated that the term “underachievement” has become pathological. Instead of using the word “underachievement”, she prefers to use the phrase “failure to thrive”. She believes that many of our children are at the mercy of a Public School System that has failed to live up to its promise. In order to thrive, African American children need a holistic African centered education. The Education of our children is a responsibility that is shared between parents and teachers. As they say, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and children need a nurturing village that they can call home.
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or those familiar with the name Woody Guthrie, they might recall his folk songs of the 1940’s. He was famous for protest songs such as This Land is Your Land and Roll on Columbia. Many people are unaware of his aesthetic talent, but Guthrie actually began to express himself through visual arts before he even became involved with music. Steven Brower, assistant professor in the Department of Design at Kean University co-authored the book titled Woody Guthrie Artworks: The Journals, Drawings, and Sketchbook of an American Original which will be published this November.
Are You A Non-Funded Group Looking For Money! New Funded Group Applications Available Now!! You may download an application at http://www.studentorg-ku.org/downloads.html click on “New Funded Group” link Deadline Thursday December 15, 2005 by 2:00pm No Exceptions!!!! If you have any questions you may contact Ashante’ Barnes, Vice President of Funded Groups or the Student Organization Business office at 908-737-5190. **Only groups that are recognized and in good standing with the Office of Student Life and Leadership Development will be considered. **
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By Jen Rubino, Staff Writer
Life Is Not A Dress Rehearsal!
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Kean University’s Music Department and The Music Circle present
HEAR IT!! FEEL IT!! MOVE IT!! with
University Center 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 UC COMPUTER LAB Monday-Thursday 9 am - 11 pm Friday 9 am - 9 pm Saturday 10 am - 7 pm Sunday 10 am - 10 pm DOUGALL COMPUTER LAB 24 Hours MARKETPLACE Monday-Thursday Friday
9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 4 pm
BOOKSTORE Monday-Friday
P: (908) 737-5230 9 am - 6 pm
FOOD COURT Monday-Thursday Friday
7 am - 7 pm 7 am - 3 pm
SNACK BAR Monday-Thursday Friday-Saturday Sunday
11 am - 11 pm 3 pm - 9 pm 4 pm - 10 pm
STARBUCKS/COFFEE HOUSE Monday-Thursday 11 am - 9 pm
Dr. Robert Abramson
A Dalcroze Eurythmics Workshop A movement class for Dancers, Volcalists and Instrumentalists. All students and staff are welcomed!
FRIDAY DECEMBER 9, 2005 ● 1-4 PM
Wilkins Theatre Room 143
FREE Admission. Dress comfortably. Refreshments will be served. RESERVE YOUR SPACE EARLY! Call the Music Department at (908) 737-4330 or Dr. Martha Marchena, Music Circle Advisor at (908) 737-4338 The Music Circle wishes to acknowledge the following individuals and clubs for helping make this event possible: Dean Carol Shaffer-Koros, School of Visual and Performing Arts; Lindsay Gambini, Executive Director of Theatre Management and Programming; Dr. Anthony Scelba, Music Department Chair; Dr. Martha Marchena, Music Circle Advisor; and Student Organization of Kean University, Inc.
The forums were not just beneficial to people interested in education, but to all those who are interested in understanding African studies. The members of the Africana Studies Club invites you to come to the meetings on Wednesdays at 3:30 in Hutchinson Hall room 131. The purpose of the African Studies club is to introduce students to the culture and history, and share insight and sources for intellectual development. Debra Ekpo, senior Philosophy/Religion major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte.
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
Hours of Operation Downs Hall Dining Breakfast 7 am - 9:30 am Lunch 11 am - 1:30 pm Dinner 4:15 pm - 6:45 pm Weekend Brunch 11am - 1:30pm
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
Library Hours Extended
(l-r) Natalja Kosouchova, Tom Malloy and Regina Rota posed for a picture after Mr. Malloy’s powerful presentation on following your passions.
NANCY THOMPSON LIBRARY
Mr. Malloy just finished producing and starring in the movie, The Attic. He has competed and taught classes in the smooth, hip-hop style West Coast Swing and he has written the Comedy/How to book “ The Guide to Keeping and Meeting Women”. As a stand-up comic, he has headlined and performed at Caroline’s comedy club as well as other major comedy clubs along the east coast.
DECEMBER 10 - DECEMBER 22 P: (908) 737-4618 Monday-Thursday 8 am - 2 am Friday 8 am - 7 pm Saturday 9 am - 6 pm Sunday 1 pm - 12 am
Mr. Malloy shared with students how they should follow their passion in life; find someone who is successful and speak interview them; read successful people’s books; live in the present and plan for the future; and most importantly, think positive! Mr. Malloy signed autographs after he told everyone he intends to be a famous and a household name in the acting field. His logical approach to enjoying life and succeeding in fulfilling your dreams was inspirational!
STUDENT TECHNOLOGY LAB P: (908) 737-5236 Monday-Thursday 8 am - 12 am Friday 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 5 pm Sunday 1 pm - 10 pm Hours Subject to Change
The next S.A.G.E. workshop will be held on Friday, December 2 in the University Center Room 336 A & B.
V IS IT OUR O NL I NE E DI T I O N AT WWW. CO UG ARSB Y T E . C O M
FOR THE KEAN UNIVERSITY STUDENT COMMUNITY
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The COUGAR’S Byte
Holiday
Signs Of Success
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The goal of the event was to bring attention to the National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week – appreciating the community that we live in and giving a little bit back, especially at this time of year. During the holidays, those who are in a tough economic position also should be able to feel the magic that this time of year brings. Also, many students have breaks this holiday season, from classes and even work, which free up schedules and allows some time for volunteering. Natasha Rodriguez, a sophomore Biology major, got a lot out of her volunteering experience. She commented, “I just transferred to
Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte
(top & left) Students enthusiastically accomplish tasks at the food bank, hoping to make someone else’s Thanksgiving as bright as their own. (bottom) Before leaving, the students and workers posed together for a memorable picture.
Gabrielle takes time out of her busy schedule to pose for a picture where she shows off her Kean pride.
With all the volunteering this sophomore does, she somehow finds time to balance schoolwork and be a student leader at the same time. Miss Mahar is the secretary for the Class of 2008 for the second year, a Resident Assistant in Dougall Hall, a member of the Student Advisory Board, a member of the Speech Language Hearing Student Association (SLHSA), was an Emerging Leader last year, and just finished the Established Leaders program this semester. “ When I first came to Kean, I didn’t plan on being so involved, but once I started the Emerging Leaders program, it opened my eyes to the many other leadership opportunities on campus,” says Gabby. “It was because of my freshman R.A. that I wanted to become a Resident Assistant; I want to help my residents and show them all the great opportunities that Kean has to offer.”
manner, plus pay her way through school with money she’s made from her babysitting job. Considering how busy Gabrielle’s life is, she cherishes her free time, when she hangs out with her friends, sees her family, and enjoys country line dancing at a local café. Gabby, who moved to Westfield from Charlotte, North Carolina when she was in the fifth grade, would consider going back there one day because it’s such a beautiful place to live. She also has a little daredevil quality to her – she said she would like to go skydiving someday and even run with the bulls in Spain before she dies! That doesn’t seem too hard to imagine; with all the events going on in her life now, she can probably handle anything Gabrielle Mahar has definitely mastered the ability of juggling school, family, life, campus involvement, and being an integral part of Kean’s community.
Not many students can handle a full course load, be an involved student leader, and volunteer without breaking down some time, but Gabby seems to handle it in a cool
Rich Lemonie, senior Fine Arts Photography major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
DA
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cherish the opportunity to make a contribution to our neighbors.”
By Rich Lemonie, Multimedia Editor or most of us, saying our first words as a child is considered a great accomplishment, but Gabrielle Mahar began to learn sign language even before she learned to speak. Gabby, a sophomore Speech Pathology major, learned to sign due in part to her father being deaf. She plans on becoming an Early Intervention Speech Pathologist, working with children from birth to three years old and also with children with special needs by helping them form the muscles in their mouth in order to enhance their speech abilities. Keeping in theme, Miss Mahar volunteers at The Arc of Union County, an organization serving individuals with developmental disabilities, where her mother is the Director of Community Affairs. Also, on November 20, 2005, along with fifty other Kean students, she volunteered at the community food bank of New Jersey which she found very fulfilling. Due to this rewarding experience Gabrielle plans to volunteer there on a regular basis.
December 5, 2005
Courtesy of Joel M. Thomas
Kean; this is my first time participating in Kean Volunteer Day; I decided to participate because not everyone has food and a place to live and it’s nice to know that there are organizations who work to help those in need. This experience that DM’s endure a lot. “I respect DM’s because they have to make has motivated me even more to become a themselves available in case of an emergency and that takes patience doctor and help others in my career.” and perseverance. Teamwork also goes along with being a DA because we all have to work together, we even had to move in on-campus two As you can see, participating in community days prior to everyone else for training.” service can be an advantage to both parties
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There are also many joys associated with being a DA and many DAs agree. Junior Bobby Morgan, Elementary Education major said, “I like that I can be in touch with people in passing. There have been many times where people have come into to have their card swiped and I just ask them how they are doing and they start to tell me problems that they are going through.” Freshman Beverly Moskowitz Psychology major explains that being a DA is great because aside from meeting new people and being friendly, you’re able to get homework done in a stable environment. Sophomore Thea Narkiewicz, an Art Education major also expresses the perks in being a DA. “I love that I get to meet new people and become friendly with the residents that come in and out the building. But the best part is the paycheck!”
covered by one of their DAs. If one of their DAs can not report to a scheduled shift for any reason it is the DM that must sit in and cover their shift no matter how long or how short the shift was scheduled for. As you might know, this job requires a good amount of patience and commitment, and like many jobs on campus, can prepare a student for the pressures of the real world.
Angela M. Barrett | The Cougar’s Byte
Sophomore Vicki Nichamor, Marketing major agrees
The perfect wrist workout, the swiping of the Kean ID card.
Angela M. Barrett, sophomore Communications major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
V IS IT OUR O NL I NE E DI T I O N AT WWW. CO UG ARSB Y T E . C O M
– sacrificing a little time to help someone in need will build your character and make you feel great at the same time! Humberto Machuca, a sophomore at Kean as well as Psi Sigma Phi historian, agrees with that idea; he added, “Volunteering helps brings out the best in you. It is a great feeling knowing that you helped someone else.” Eric Lamendola, president of the Council for Part Time Students, as well as a junior Math major believed Kean Volunteer Day to be “an opportunity to help out a wonderful organization and to know that we will affect the lives of so many people. It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure that no one is hungry or homeless.” Though it would be wonderful to make everyone’s holiday safe and warm this year, we can only do our best to touch as many lives as possible. That’s why it’s important to gather friends and family to support Kean Volunteer Day every year, and do our part to give a little bit back to our community.
Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.