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THE INDEPENDENT VOICE OF KEAN UNIVERSITY
PREPARING FOR NATURAL DISASTERS Page 3
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HOT
YOU’VE NEVER
HEARD OF
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HEART?
COMPOSER
SMALL BIZ BOOK
SELLER
HEALTHY
THE GREATEST
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HEALTHY TEETH
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT
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THE TOWER
Volume 9 • Issue 4 November 5, 2008
New Dorms to Open Fall ‘09 By Jillian Johnson
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Kean University’s Child Care Center held a Halloween parade last week. Read about Kean’s cutest co-eds in the centerfold.
Kean Copes With The Economy By Dawn M. Phillips
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ith the economy’s wild gyrations – ranging from freezing credit markets to sinking stocks—many students at Kean University are concerned about the future. While students majoring in fields that are considered growth areas like criminal justice feel they will be less affected by the bad economy, most remain cautious even as some say they are not yet feeling any effects of the current crisis. In fact, the immediate effects on students seem to depend on their responsibilities. States Freshman, A.J. Hill: “The economy will probably hit me later, not now”. Others like Inisha Lewis, a public administration/criminal justice major, said she’s feeling the pinch.
“The economy is tricky and is making things more expensive, which pressures some college students like me to seek more employment just to keep up with the inflation,” Lewis said. Costs are up, providing a strain for all students. Within the last three months, prices at the pump were dancing between $3 and $4, leading some students to decide whether to buy gas or buy lunch (or brown bag it). Of course, food costs are up too—both dining out and at the supermarket. And the cost of education continues to rise. Finance sophomore Christele Flores is worried about Kean’s tuition, which rose this year. “I am concerned about Kean’s tuition, and how I will maintain it,” she said. Many of Kean’s students help support or are the main (Continued on page 4)
ith demand for on-campus housing among students on the rise, Kean University expects two newly equipped undergraduate residence halls now under construction to be open for occupancy next year. Currently, only 10 percent, roughly 1, 300 students who enroll at Kean live on campus in one of the six halls. Many are in triple occupancy dorms, while others who need on-campus housing have had to live in the Hilton Hotel near Liberty International Airport in Newark. The new dormitories will increase Kean’s on-campus residency to more than 2,000 students, making the resident population a much larger community that will ultimately affect the campus. In October of 2006, Maximina Rivera, director of Office of Residence Life, and Denis Castanon, associate director of residence life discussed the idea of expanding the Kean campus by adding two more residence halls. Alfonso Losada, associate director of campus planning, constructed the outline and floor plan for the new dorms. “More and more students, including those within commuting distance, want to live on campus as part of their collegiate experience,” said Stephen Hudik, spokesman for Kean. As of Spring 2007, of the total on-campus population 163 students lived at the Hilton, and 95 students stayed in triplebed suites. An additional 200 students were placed on the waiting list . Staying at the Hilton has its advantages but Cyndal Sturgill, a Junior who spent her first semester living in the Hilton, said dorm life is better. “[The new dorms will be] an improve-
ment,” said Sturgill. “I felt isolated from everything.” Those residing at the Hilton can choose whether to move into a double-bed suite that will cost $3,303 per semester or the students may wish to move into a triplebed suite, paying only $2, 805 per semester, thus saving $960. The new dorm construction began in January of 2008, and living near the construction site hasn’t always been pleasant for current residents. Students complain about the noise, and other inconveniences.
MORE STUDENTS WANT TO LIVE ON CAMPUS AS PART OF THEIR COLLEGIATE EXPERIENCE. Kean, however, is not alone in its construction boom. A recent article in The Star-Ledger documented dorm construction at state universities around New Jersey, also because of increased demand from students for more and better accommodations. Of the two dormitories rising at Kean, one is for freshmen and the other is for upperclassmen. The freshman hall will hold a capacity of 420 students and will consist of eight floors. The first floor will contain laundry services, study rooms, community kitchens, lounges with flat screen televisions, and will include a game room which will have a pool table and arcade games. Also, there will be two resident advisers on each floor to better assist the new students, Hudik said. The rooms will be 175 square feet suite-style dorms. The upperclassman dormitory will house 408 students on seven (Continued on page 4)
INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: With everything that is going on with the economy, what are your concerns for your future?
Greg Harleston, Senior, Communications/Journalism Major
Rachel Kaelblein, Junior, Communications Major
A.J. Hill, Freshman, Criminal Justice Major
“My two main concerns are Social Security and healthcare. As the dollar keeps falling, people on top are still getting paid.”
“My concerns are if my father will lose his job, he works for AIG. Also, as a public relations major, what jobs will be available for me?”
“As far as the criminal justice field, it’s growing. My pay will be low initially, but I can work my way up. The economy hasn’t really hit me yet.”
Marianne Phiaha, Neil Tortorelli, Bernadette McBrinn, Jimmy Samay, Film Majors
“As film majors, we’re going down”.
The Tower is now on the web! Find a PDF version of The Tower at: www.kean.edu/~thetower
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Autism Conference to be Held at Kean By Kelly Pennisi
Imagine living in a world where you have a puzzle and all the pieces are laid out in front of you, but you do not know which piece goes where. This puzzle is called autism. What do we know about autism? What pieces of information can we fit together? On November 21st Kean University will hold for the first time a conference on Autism called “Autism: Putting the Pieces Together.” The conference is an interdisciplinary approach and is designed for parents, teachers and professionals. “My goal for the conference is that people will start to think about treatment and continuing education in terms of an interdisciplinary perspective,” said Mara Cohen, Kean assistant professor of Occupational Therapy. “Usually you have teachers with teachers and therapists with therapists, but at the conference we’ll have multiple perspectives.” Cohen said the interdisciplinary approach is especially critical in the area of autism because it is such a pervasive disorder that requires so many areas of intervention. “You have many people working with
one child and they need to work together,” she added. One of the two main speakers at the conference will be newscaster Jim Watkins from CW11 News at 10. Watkins has an 11-year-old with autism.
THE INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH IS ESPECIALLY CRITICAL IN THE AREA OF AUTISM BECAUSE IT IS SUCH A PERVASIVE DISORDER. The other speaker is Jake Greenspan, co-director of DIR Support Services in Bethesda, Maryland. DIR is a center for child development that specializes in the use of DIR, which stands for Developmental, Individual-Difference, Relationshipbased floor time model. The difference between DIR and other models is that DIR is a play-based form of therapy, while other models are behavior based. The goal of DIR is to help develop and implement programs for kids with learning and developmental challenges.
WB11 News Jim Watkins is a main speaker.
In New Jersey, autism is a big problem where one in 94 children is affected. Within the autism spectrum, there are three diagnoses: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, and Asperger’s. The first disorder autistic disorder or autism is a bio-neurological disability that usually appears before the age of 3. People with pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified have similar but milder symptoms of autism. Asperg-
er’s Syndrome is an even milder variant of the autistic disorder and often affects people in socializing with others. People with Asperger’s exhibit childhood characteristics of eccentric behavior and social isolation, but most importantly, those with the condition do not have the deficits in expressive language like the other two diagnoses on the spectrum. Asperger’s commonly is the least involved, although it still can be difficult for people with the disorder to function in society. One of the main features of the conference will be the panel session where the audience can discuss all areas of autism. The panels include topics such as one entitled “Communication, Social Skills Behavior and Play” and another on “Early Diagnosis and Intervention.” A third panel offers a parent’s perspective on autism. The panels will cover things such as communication skills, transitions to independence, family dynamics and other areas that autism affects. The conference begins at 9 am, starting with Jake Greenspan at Wilkins Theater. . The events of the conference will be taking place in various buildings around the campus. For more information, go to the website at www.kean.edu/~autism
Library Gets a Facelift By Kelly Pennisi
Only someone buried in a book would not have noticed the addition rising at Kean University’s library. This new $12 million addition will add a 12,000 foot expansion to the third floor of the library and will include a new entry patio, lobby, art gallery, exhibit hall, seminar rooms, and reading rooms. The building will also house Kean University’s Holocaust Resource Center and the new Institute for the Human Rights where a broad range of activities will be organized to promote awareness of human rights issues. The institute will also work with teachers and school districts in developing school curricula to discuss Holocaust and genocide among high school and middle school students.
Architectural rendering of the completed library.
Kean Walks to Fight Breast Cancer By Kevin Adams
When I arrived at Military Park to participate in the Breast Cancer Walk on Homecoming Weekend, I was shocked to see such a big turn-out. Hundreds of people gathered in the middle of Newark to help support the cause. Many Kean students, teachers, and organizations came to walk the 3K. Kean was one of many schools and organizations that were participating in the event. I saw organizations from Montclair and NJIT, as well as many children who came out to support the cause. As we all made the walk to Washington Park and back, there was a real feeling of support seen at a few different rest/water stations. We were also supported by a local band playing in the middle of town for everyone’s enjoyment. Also supporting the cause were many breast cancer survivors. “To me as a young survivor- I’ve been
diagnosed with breast cancer twice. I’m 35 years old and to see everyone come together and me being able to be a part of this event raising money to find a cure words can’t describe what this walk means to me,” said Iveliz Sieguis, a breast cancer survivor. The survivors were the most energized of everyone. They were walking in groups, singing songs having a good time. A few people still were moved so much they simply broke down during the walk. “This is very emotional for me,” explained survivor Sandra Vasquez, who did not say much during the long walk. Still, I could tell that she was happy about the walk. The Breast Cancer Walk turned out great. There were many supporters who came because they wanted to be there. Seeing all the children and the organizations really made me smile; it showed the older crowd that the young community is willing and will help give support.
Left, some of the people who walked to support Breast Cancer.
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FACULTY PROFILE professor’s small biz book a hot seller By Raquel Fernandes
“I have always encouraged an interactive classroom. This has given me the chance of sharing my knowledge, insights and ideas while at the same time learning from “It takes more than basic business strategy and a promising climate to cultivate my students,” said Freeman. a business,” says Bruce Freeman, coauthor of Birthing the Elephant: A Woman’s GoWhile teaching, Freeman decided to begin a column which would focus on startfor-It! Guide to Overcoming the Big Challenges of Launching a Business. “The real key to ing varieties of topics on beginning a small business. success is winning the small business mind game.” “Since I had been teaching my passion, small business management (entrepreFreeman, a professor of marketing and management, has been teaching at Kean neurship), I decided way back that I wanted to write a column,” says Freeman. “I University for 10 years. His book, written with came up with “Small Business Professor” because Karin Abarbanel, is about guiding female entreit was professional and gave the column a personpreneurs not only on starting, but also surviving a ality and a “smiling face”. small business, and is now in its third printing. This weekly syndicated small business column “Most small business books talk about the 3 M’s features a case study about a successful entrepre(money, marketing and management),” says Freeneur and lessons learned along the way. Freeman man. “Birthing the Elephant talks about the 4th M… also has a second column, “Ask the Small Business Motivation…the emotional staying power needed Professor,” which is a 400-450 word Q&A column. to overcome the challenges of launching a business “Each week I bring in an expert to help answer a particularly in the first two years.” reader’s question,” said Freeman. The title of the book comes from the parallel Freeman has been speaking to a variety of groups between a female elephant’s gestation period and about both the column and book, including the the amount of time it takes to start a successful National Association of Women Business Owners small business. (NAWBO), Chambers of Commerce, Rotary Inter“It takes 22 months for an elephant to give birth national, and some university groups. and it takes about that long (according to the “We are also putting together a Birthing the ElSmall Business Administration) to launch a busi- Bruce Freeman, professor of marketing and management at Kean ephant tour,” said Freeman. “I received an email University and coauthor of Birthing the Elephant ness,” says Freeman. back in May from a public relations professional in Despite his success, Freeman did not start out as a small business owner. Louisville KY who heard about our book. He informed me that the Louisville Zoo “I was working for a major publishing company as the manager of a computer had an elephant that gave birth last year and thought we could cross promote the testing lab,” said Freeman. “The division management changed and I was let go in elephant birth (Scotty) and the new book. I contacted the National Association of 1991. I copied all my contacts onto a disk and soon sent out an announcement card Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and they invited me to speak at their major anto start my own professional consultancy. With a wife, a mortgage, and a three year nual event in cooperation with the Louisville Zoo. My co-author, Karin Abarbanel, old child (hopes for a second), I made the decision that I did not want to be in the is working on the next tour stop, Pittsburgh PA.” position that one person could pull the “financial” plug when my daughter is ready Freeman won the SBA Journalist of the Year’ award in New Jersey for his two to go to college…that’s where I am now. I am what the Wall Street Journal once small business columns with Scripps Howard News Service. called ‘an entrepreneur by necessity’.” Bruce Freeman can be contacted at www.SmallBusinessProf.com. Freeman encourages lots of discussion in his classroom.
Learning to Prepare for a Natural Disaster By Lillie Morales-Torres
What would you do if a natural disaster hit you? Would you be prepared? Would you have an emergency plan? The answer is: probably not. The truth is, like you, millions of people around the world are not prepared for a natural disaster. And when they do happen, chaos occurs. Now, there is no reason not to educate yourself about disaster. Kean University will be hosting a symposium entitled “Weather and Environmental Hazards: The challenges of Awareness, Research, and Education” on November 14 from 7:30am to 4:30pm. It will take place at various locations on campus and it’s free, but registration is required of all who wish to attend. It may not be something that we want to think about, but we should all have a plan “just in case,” says Dr. Paul Croft, a meteorology professor at Kean and an organizer of the conference. “Know what your action plan is well before anything happens or before it is expected to happen,” Dr. Croft advises. “Regardless of hazard types, the personal response is similar. You should know who to contact, what to do, where to go (or stay), and why; and when it is safe to go about normal business/routine afterwards.” The program will cover environmental, natural, and weather hazards that can affect us all around New Jersey including the effect on our population and economy. It will also cover many other areas
such as how these hazards are dealt with and what we can do to prepare ourselves. The day will consist of a town hall discussion, luncheon alumni panel discussion, safe communities and responses, educational sessions, planetarium shows, spotter training, weather and environmental activities, health impacts and more. Although New Jersey has been pretty fortunate in terms of weather, there is still plenty to watch out for. There are hazards around us all year round. “New Jersey experiences some form of environmental hazard year-round,” explains Dr. Croft, “and these vary by location in the state. “ Dr. Croft said the more common threats in New Jersey are winter weather hazards such as wind chill, extreme cold, snow and ice. In the fall, winter and spring, disasters and lesser problems can be caused by Nor’easters and severe thunderstorms (including lightning, high winds and possible tornadoes.) Other weather-related hazards throughout the year can include poor air quality, pollen season, and insect/pest invasions “to name just a few of many,” he noted. Those attending the conference include people in the professional community (including industry, state/federal agencies, and commercial interests), educators, students including local middle and high school and community college students, and the general public. To Register or for more information visit Kean.edu/wecare or email: cese@ kean.edu .
New Jersey experiences some form of environmental hazard year-round
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Meetings every Mon. & Wed., 3:30 p.m., CAS 413
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A Mini-Sketch of the Financial Mess By Dawn M. Phillips
(Compiled from news reports) CNN reported that “The Labor Department reported that net payrolls nationwide declined by 159,000 in September, the ninth straight month the U.S. economy has lost jobs.” CNN Money reported “Turmoil in the banking and finance industries has resulted in a credit freeze, making it difficult for prospective homeowners to take out loans. The market is also experiencing a glut of foreclosures”. And Fox News said: “The unemployment rate now at a five-year high of 6.1 %, is expected to hit 7 or 7.5% by late 2009, which would be the highest since after the 19901991 recession.” How did we end up in this monetary mayhem? In the last several years banks have lent out huge amounts of money to potential homebuyers. Interest rates were very low, and provided incentive for potential buyers to invest. CNN adds, “In 2001, the Federal Reserve started aggressively slashing short-term interest rates to stave off recession. By eventually reducing rates to a historically low 1%, the Fed reinflated the economy.”
Homeowners started to buy more and more properties because of the low rate. “At the same time, Wall Street investment banks got a brilliant idea: bundle the riskiest of these mortgages, then slice and dice these portfolios into tradable bonds to be sold to other banks and investors. Amazingly, bond-rating agencies slapped their highest ratings on the “best” of this debt”, CNN reported. Borrowers started defaulting on their loans. Families were unable to keep up with mortgage payments. The banks were without funds. This sent the market tumbling. Brian Bethune, chief U.S. financial economist for Global Insight stated, “if the economy continues to tank into a deeper recession, dragging the housing market along with it, then the costs to the taxpayers easily could escalate to several hundred billions of dollars.” In an attempt to start to restore this economic crisis, a bailout was signed by the Congress and President Bush. Some $700 billion will be given to banks in order to ease the credit crunch. The huge debt will have to be paid, and many say that means increased taxes. Controversial as it may be, chief political strategist Greg Valliere for Stanford Group, says no matter who wins the Presidency Company, “Taxes will rise regardless of who wins.”
New Dorms (Continued from page 1) floors. The first floor will have a screening room, which holds approximately 50 students, a computer lab, a game room and a dining hall. There will be only one resident adviser on each floor. The rooms will be 767 sq. ft. and will also be suite-style, with two rooms, one bathroom, and living room space. There will also be 24 single occupancy rooms in the hall. Both halls will contain student-controlled heating and air conditioning. Sturgill feels that the new dorm building features will attract students and help to make the campus living experience more enjoyable. There are requirements for living in the new rooms, however. Students who wish
to reside in the new buildings must already reside in the residence halls or in the Hilton Hotel, and must be registered as a full-time student. Students must also be in good academic standing and have paid all outstanding bills. To get into the new halls, students also must submit a Housing Intent Form with a $100 nonrefundable housing application fee. Finally, student judicial status will be reviewed. According to Hudik, the upperclassmen residence hall is expected to be completed this December and the freshman residence hall is expected to be completed in March of ’09. Students will begin to take occupancy in Sept. ’09.
New dorms underway.
Coping With The Economy (Continued from page 1) support for their families, and they report that they have already been impacted by the plunge of the economic markets. The huge decline in stocks, rise in home foreclosures, and now skyrocketing job losses are a big concern. ”With financial institutions being extra cautious, and at this stage fearful, it was difficult for my son who started college this fall, to get sufficient student loans to cover the cost of tuition,” Communication
major Regina Perry stated. The news about the economy is inescapable. But Kean’s Career coordinator Blanca Rosales-Ahn, is optimistic that students will succeed. “The economy has definitely impacted our students,” she said. “The economy continuously goes up and down, but as long as students market themselves they can be successful.”
Get It Done This Winter! t$MBTTFTSVOGSPN%FDFNCFSSEUP+BOVBSZ16th t0WFSDPVSTFTUPDIPPTFGSPN t.PSOJOH BGUFSOPPO BOEFWFOJOHDMBTTFTBWBJMBCMF
Visit winter.rutgers.edu/kean to register Questions? Contact us at
[email protected] or 732.932.7565
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
The Greatest Composer You’ve Never Heard Of By Raquel Fernandes
It’s that time of year for goblins, graves, and ghosts, and the Kean University Concert Artists are celebrating by digging up a composer. Felix Draeseke, a German composer born in 1835, is largely unknown in the classical music world, but The Concert Artists will be resurrecting his works in an upcoming concert. “He [Draeseke] is the greatest composer you’ve never heard of,” said Concert Artist Program Director Dr. Anthony Scelba, Chair of Kean’s Department of Music. “He was rather widely performed in his lifetime, but ha been forgotten because of changing fashions and political considerations.” Of all the forgotten composers, why would the Concert Artists choose to resurrect the work of Draeseke? Scelba said it was Draeseke’s String Quintet that caught his attention. “I came across this work and started to study it,” said Scelba. “It pulled me in. I was struck by its brilliance and by the fact
that I’d never heard of its composer.” As it has become customary of Dr. Scelba, he has once again taken a string quintet, typically comprising two violins, viola, and two cellos, and has arranged Draeseke’s String Quintet for a standard string quartet and double bass (replacing the second cello). Concert Artist enthusiasts will recall a similar arrangement by Scelba on the 2005 Concert Artist recording, Schubertiana produced by Kean Uni-
“He was rather widely performed in his lifetime, but has been forgotten because of changing fashions and political considerations.” versity featuring the Quintet in C by Franz Schubert. The arrangement involved considerable reworking, so Scelba sent his manuscript to the International Draeseke Society for comment. The German and
Composer Felix Draeseke (b.1835-1913)
American directors answered him, both expressing enthusiasm. Dr. Alan Krueck, Director of the International Draeseke Society North America, and other members
of the society, will be in attendance at the performance. In addition to the Scelba-arranged String Quintet, this all-Draeseke program will include performances of Draeseke’s Sonata for Clarinet and Piano, his second Sonata for Viola and Piano, and his String Quintet in F, op. 77. The concert will take place in Kean Hall at 8 p.m. on Thursday Nov. 6. The concert will be preceded by a discussion between Alan Krueck and Anthony Scelba at 7:15. Tickets, priced at $15, with discounts for students, seniors, and Kean faculty and staff, are available through the Kean box office, 908-737-SHOW (7469) or online at www.keanstage.com This Concert Artist season has been full of new and exciting ventures. The addition of four new Concert Artists, and the commissioning of two new original works by composer Frank Ezra Levy have left audience members on the edge of their seats with anticipation. The concert on Nov. 6 will leave us, once again, wondering what great twists the Concert Artists program will bring our way.
BOOK REVIEW
Off The Shelf: A New Kind of Road Trip Book By Rachel Rothspan
Every college student is familiar with the idea of new beginnings, but few can actually say that they sold it all, packed it up, and took off for a new life. The idea seems extreme, but it is exactly what writer Don Miller does in his new memoir, Through Painted Deserts. Miller, a born-again Christian, takes off to find God, meaning, and peace while driving from Texas to Oregon in a hippie van with a friend named Paul. During their travels, the pair find hope in unlikely situations, strength in unlikely ways, and love in the most unlikely places. Miller’s writing is honest and poetic, capturing the landscapes that he passes in a romantic picture. The gravity of his decision to sell his life and move across miles and miles strikes the reader as brave and authentic. He depicts all the elements of traveling life with a buddy- the good times and the hardships. Through Painted Deserts entices even the most skeptical readers. It gives life to the notion that materialism is merely a prison, an illusion that keeps us tied to our consumer lives. As a born-again believer, I was shocked in Miller’s confidence to think. He takes the idea of God and Christianity and pushes it to the furthest boundaries. The idea that we must believe in a God who does this or is that does not stop him from considering alternatives. Miller addresses the conflicts of the human mind—money, relationships, survival, and desire. The story is anecdotal, broken up by the long strings of thoughts of an honest person, giving the reader something with which to grasp and identify. “It’s interesting how you sometimes have to leave home before you can answer the difficult question… It’s funny how you can’t ask difficult questions in a familiar place, how you have to stand back a few feet and see things in a new way before you realize that nothing that is happening to you is normal,” Miller says. And then he proceeds to start to answer some of the difficult questions. He not only talks about the journey, but he paints the very picture of beauty in starting over in a way that anyone who has ever dreamed will find enticing.
The Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Essay Contest 2009 encourages full-time juniors and seniors to compete for awards of up to $5000. ponsored by the Elie Wiesel Foundation of Humanity, it challenges students to identify, define and analyze contemporary ethical questions, issues or dilemmas. Deadline is Dec. 19. For further information, contact Helen Walzer at 908-737-4661.
COMING THIS WEEK: The Cure, John Legend, Susan Tedeschi and More By Michael Hamersly
McClatchy Newspapers; (MCT)
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The Cure, “4:13 Dream” (Geffen Records). British goth rockers’ 13th studio album.
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Kaiser Chiefs, “Off With Their Heads” (Motown). Eclectic British band turned to 2008 Producer of the Year Mark Ronson.
IN STORES TUESDAY: •
Bloc Party, “Intimacy” (Atlantic). British indie-rockers channel their inner Cure and Strokes.
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Cradle of Filth, “Godspeed on the Devil’s Thunder” (Roadrunner Records). Double CD from black metal kings.
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John Legend, “Evolver” (Sony). Fivetime Grammy-winning R&B singer gets help from Kanye West, Andre 3000 and Estelle on his third album.
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Loreena McKennitt, “A Midwinter Night’s Dream” (Quinlan Road). Holiday album from Canadian world-music songbird.
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Snow Patrol, “A Hundred Million Suns” (Geffen Records). Fifth album from Scottish power-pop group features the first single “Take Back the City.”
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Susan Tedeschi, “Back to the River” (Verve Forecast).
(c) 2008, The Miami Herald.
Kean’s Cutest Co-Eds By Lillie Morales-Torres Photography and layout by Ana Maria Silverman
Who would have thought that the minimum age to be enrolled at Kean University is 2 ½ years old? No, toddlers are not enrolling in your Bio class this semester, but you may catch them strolling along campus or taking a ride on the trolley. These little cuties are from the Kean University Childcare Center, one of Kean University’s bestkept secrets. The center, in the Campus School North building, was established in the mid 1970’s to help provide childcare for the students who had children and wanted to further their education. Today, it is open to students, faculty, and staff and it provides not only childcare, but also education for both the toddlers and Kean’s students. Kean Childcare uses the Reggio Emilia approach to education,, which encourages children to explore, learn, and communicate in many different ways. It allows children to become engaged in meaningful math, literacy, social studies and science activities. It also encourages parents and teachers to take part in the children’s education and learning process. According to the Reggio Emilia approach, children, teachers and parents are considered the three central protagonists in the education process. “We are very careful listeners and observers of the children’s play,” she said. “When they become interested in something -- that becomes the theme for our project. Through ongoing documentation of the children’s work, we make learning visible.” Every day at the center is a new adventure for the children. They participate in arts and crafts, music, story time, nature walks, trolley rides and more. Other activities include a weekly fitness class at the gym given by the physical education
club, and music lessons given by the music department students. This month the children will also participate in a community challenge to walk 40,000 miles and they will each get their own pedometers. They will attend shows in the Wilkins Theatre such as Leo Leoni’s “Swimmy,” “Inch by Inch”, and “Frederick.” A typical day for the children consists of breakfast, playtime, story time, potty time, snacks, naps and more. “We begin our day by greeting the children,” explains Davinder Kaur who is the head teacher at the center. “Once everyone settles down, we sing the “Good Morning” song, talk about the weather, and read a book related to the project we are working on. We split into two small groups to begin our project. Then, they go to the learning centers where they pretend to pump gas, cook, ride the bus; etc.” Whether parents are taking day or evening classes, the center may be able to provide care for their children. Day classes are offered to children ages two and a half to five. The children may attend three to five days a week. The childcare center also offers evening care starting at 4:30 until 8:00pm from Monday through Thursday. Evening care is offered to children between three to twelve years old. Children may attend three to four days a week depending on the parents schedules. Those interested in enrolling their child for the spring semester should stop by and see the director, Kathleen Berkowitz. The child care center is located in the CSN (Campus School North) building. You can also download an enrollment form on the website under Child Care Center.
Kean University Childcare Center is one of Kean University’s best-kept secrets.
Kean Child Care Center staff and kids came out in full costume last Friday for its annual Halloween Parade on campus.
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EDITORIAL CAMPAIGNS RISE TO NEW LEVEL OF SILLINESS Today, we look back at election season and wonder if what we just witnessed in the media was a presidential race or a popularity contest. Remember those superlatives in the high school yearbook? Class clown. Best dressed. Most likely to succeed. The election had become just that. An unnecessary amount of attention was focused on topics that had nothing to do with becoming president of the United States. Sarah Palin’s wardrobe was headline news in the final weeks of the election. The money the campaign spent one the attire and where it came from had newscasters and journalists reporting it like it was breaking news. It became a topic for the Obama campaign to use as a flaw against the McCain campaign, and then a point in a Palin speech that was suppose to be used to enhance the McCain vote. “This is my own outfit from a small store in Alaska,” Palin said in a campaign trail speech reported by ABC news. Days later Obama appeared in from of supporters wearing jeans and a casual shirt to show off his “average Joe” style. Speaking of Joe, how about McCain’s invocation everywhere of “Joe the Plumber?” The media has played a part in the race for class clown. Between Barack Obama’s dance number on the Ellen Degeneres Show and Sarah Palin’s “raise the roof” dance on Saturday Night Live, it had become a comedic war. What about the real issues? Do we know any more about how to get America out of its economic crisis? Is there a real plan for Iraq? Did Sarah Palin’s designer wardrobe choices outshine John McCain’s plans for presidency? Did Joe Biden’s slip of tongue make it appear as if Barack Obama was running solo? The election is now over and now we just hope that the winner was chosen for all the right, important reasons.
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Communication Department Kean University Center for Academic Success 1000 Morris Avenue Union, NJ 07083 Telephone: (908) 737-0468 Fax: (908) 737-0465 Email:
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THE TOWER
The Tower is an independent, laboratory newspaper of Kean University’s print journalism option in the communication major program. It is published biweekly through the regular academic year and supported by advertising and the communications department. The Tower is not responsible for claims made by its advertisers. The Tower is a public forum and is free from censorship and advance approval of content by the university administration. The Tower staff is responsible for its content. Editor-in-Chief Kelly Nemeth Deputy Editor Jill Johnson Sports Editor Nicole Von Gonten
Staff Kevin Adams Lillie Morales-Torres Kelly Pennisi Dawn Phillips Aydin Reyhan Carlos Reynosa Jessie Rivera Ana Maria Silverman
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Opinion pieces and letters to the editor The Tower welcomes guest columns and letters to the editor from any source. Such material should be submitted to
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Tower publication schedule Fall: Sept. 24, Oct. 8, Oct. 22, Nov. 5, Nov. 19, Dec. 3, Dec. 17.
ANGER MANAGEMENT SOME CLASSES ARE A BIT OF A STRETCH By Kelly Nemeth
One hour and 20 minutes is the time allotted to professors to teach us a lesson. One hour and twenty minutes may seem short for some, but for students it can feel like a lifetime, especially when the professor is done with the lesson and is now trying to fill empty time until the last minute of class. I do not believe that there is a rule that states that students must be in class for the entire one hour and 20 minutes. If whatever it is the teacher needed to get done that day is finished in an hour, then the instructor should just let us go. But instead, some teachers glance down at their watches, and realizing they still have time, even if it’s just four or five more minutes, think up an assignment and assign it. It’s usually an irrelevant assignment that he or she will just forget by the next class. Then, there is the situation where a professor will stretch their lectures out as long as possible in order to fill the time. They repeat themselves or state obvious examples of the topic just to ensure that we are there the entire time. But what they don’t realize is that once that hour mark passes, our minds were on one thing and one thing only— the time. There is that student who tries to let the teacher know that there is only five minutes or so left by abruptly closing his notebook and noticeably zipping up his bag in order to start the chain effect of his classmates so they too will soon do the same. But the professor does not stop. He or she just continues, even with empty desk tops in
front of him. They give the usual, “we still have time,” statement to the class, but our attention spans are finished. We know that you are done with the important and needed material, so now we are thinking about who we are going to eat lunch with or where we are going next. There is nothing wrong with dismissing a class a few minutes early if all the material is covered, but some professors believe that they need to keep the class in the room until the final minute. You don’t have to. You have already lost us and even though we are paying for this class time, we would not mind if you let us go. Sometimes it isn’t the professors though. Sometimes it is the students who make the class go longer than it should. There is always that one student who feels the need to wait until the very end of class to ask a question. But it is never a smart, educated question. Instead, it is a question that the teacher had answered several times throughout class, but because that student was too busy texting on his phone or doodling on a notebook, the student did not hear it. So the hand goes up one hour and 18 minutes into the class and the professor needs to repeat himself once again. Half of the class is already in the middle of standing up to head out the door when this person decides to participate in the class. Then, just because of this person—and you know who you are —we all need to sit down and “listen.” Next time, do us all a favor and either pay attention or wait until class is finished.
NOVEMBER 5, 2008 9
T THE TOWER
OPINION
Rolling Book Bags Deserve Respect Too! By Molly D. Kenner
The following is a response to the Oct. 22 Anger Management column that lambasted rolling book bags. No one knows what students who use rolling book bags experience or what their health issues are. Concerned students should try not to think that every student’s experience is identical to their own. Students rolling these bags may not live on campus and they may have classes all day and a night class or two as well. Perhaps the students with rolling bags do not have a car where they’d be able to store their books or computer, and retrieve these items as other students might do on their way to and from classes. The rolling book bag is an annoyance to those who don’t have need of one. For people who must carry them, they are quite practical. There are students who do
not use rolling book bags and hop on an elevator going not just up one flight, but they use it to go down a level. Do we really want to try to qualify who should and who should not use the elevators? All students (with or without rolling book bags) have the right to use any elevator on campus.
rolling book bags. If so, do they need to show a doctor’s note on demand as suggested by the recent Anger Management column? Maybe younger students bought these rolling book bags as a convenience for themselves, and not just to annoy students who do not use them.
“The rolling book bag is an annoyance...For people who must carry them, they are quite practical.” Let’s face it; all of us pay the same tuition and fees to attend Kean. Sometimes students are not the traditional age of 18-to-30 year-old. Although older students are at times treated as if they’re invisible, they are a segment of this University’s student population. Perhaps young students aren’t “just lazy.” Maybe they have a medical reason to use
It is not the express purpose of these rolling book bag students to run over students’ feet or knock over their “belongings that are on the floor” as suggested. The belongings that non-rolling book bag students have on the floor are also hazardous, by the way. These belongings—books, purses, laptops—make it “harder for students to pass,” too.
The sounds of disruption that the columnist found disturbing are a personal matter. Some students may find vulgarities spewing from some students’ mouths disruptive and disturbing even. Others may have their studies or concentration broken when a cell phone rings while class is in session. Some students while studying may find these sounds are the “last things they need to hear.” Rolling book bag users can certainly be more aware of the general student population and look where they are going as they roll along. In addition, when they reach their class they can get their books, etcetera, from their bag and set the bag off to the side or against a wall where no one will trip over it. But being less critical of other people’s lives and being a little more tolerant of those who are different will make everyone’s learning experience more pleasurable.
HEALTH & FITNESS
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Heart? By Dr. Josh Palgi and Dr. Jessica Adams
Most people are aware that lifestyle choices such as eating right, getting enough exercise and quitting smoking can help prevent cardiovascular disease. They may not know that another way to a healthy heart might be through the gums and teeth. What is gum disease! Teeth are covered by sticky plaque, made up of food, bacteria and bacterial waste products. If the plaque is left on the teeth the gums become irritated and may bleed when you brush. This early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. If not treated, the gums may swell, forming a little pocket around the tooth. When
Another way to a healthy heart might be through the gums and teeth. plaque is left on the teeth it may harden to form tartar (calculus). With time the pockets get deeper and may become infected, and the gingivitis can develop into chronic (long-term) periodontal disease in which the jaw bone can become infected and damaged. So, the questions are how do bacteria released from the infected gums stimulate and increase cardiovascular disease, and can the little plastic stick with a cleaning device connected to it impact the health of your heart? In recent years chronic infections have been associated with a disease that causes “furring” of the arteries, called atherosclerosis, which is the main cause of heart attacks.
Some researchers claimed that the body’s defenses overreact to the threat of gum disease and start to destroy other protective cells. Researchers from Ireland and the United Kingdom suggest that the bacteria in the mouth enters the bloodstream and sticks to platelets, leading to blood clots that interrupt the supply of blood to the heart and causes a heart attack. Some experts do not believe that the bacteria that causes gum disease is responsible for increasing heart disease risk. Instead, they argue that the gum disease is due to smoking, poor diet and other lifestyle factors that are known to increase the risk of heart disease, and they are often associated with poor dental health as well. There are lots of ways to help your heart. Diet and exercise are important. So are handling stress appropriately, not smoking and being screened for hypertension, diabetes or other health problems. So, while more research is needed to better understand the connection between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, brushing and flossing your teeth and regular visits to your dentist or hygienist can certainly be added to the list. Dr. Palgi and Dr. Adams are Professors in the Physical Education, Recreation and Health Department
Snow in October: A Bad Winter Ahead? By Tasha Anderson and Matt Villafane
Most of this past October had been a typical autumn with cool and sunny weather, temperatures in the 60s, and pleasant fall foliage. Yet an unwelcome early-season Nor’easter pummeled our region on the 28th bringing heavy rain, high winds, and even heavy snow to parts of northern New Jersey, and upstate New York—over one foot of snow in some locations. Most of New Jersey recorded its first snowflakes of the season, including Atlantic City; and brief road closures and slowdowns were common from Interstate 80 to the NJ Turnpike and Route 18 in New Brunswick. High winds gusting to near 70 miles per hour, thunder and lightning,
and flooding reports were numerous and led to widespread power outages. The storm had many people thinking it might be the end of January rather than the end of October. Though the white stuff is not unprecedented for our region, the event is very rare in October. High Point, NJ, recorded 14 inches of snow, while parts of Upstate New York received up to 25 inches. Cape May, NJ recorded a wind gust to 66 mph. The storm system resulted when a cold front that brought unseasonably chilly weather to the Eastern half of the nation approached the warm waters off the Mid-Atlantic coast. At its height the storm moved directly through the Newark-New York region and was followed by the coldest air of the season thus far. The storm also drove
very cold air into the Deep South, smashing record lows in Florida, with Tallahassee dipping to a frosty 29 degrees, the next morning. The storm also postponed The World Series. While rare, snow has occurred in New Jersey during the month of October. In fact, the most snow to fall in our region (measured at Newark Airport) in October was 0.3 inches in 1952 on the 20th of the month. The earliest snow ever for the same region was October 10th, 1979 – nearly 30 years ago. Does snowfall in October foretell the winter ahead? Of the snows occurring in October at Newark Airport (in 1952, 1957, 1960, 1962, 1965, 1972, and 1979), the winters that followed ranged from one of the warmest and least snowy on record at that time (1972-73) to others
that were warm and soggy, cold and dry, and cold and snowy. The month that often provides significant clues to the winter ahead is November. This story was prepared by Tasha Anderson (Meteorology Major) and Matt Villafane (Meteorology Major) with assistance and direction from Dr. Paul J. Croft (Meteorology Faculty). Information is provided through the Center for Earth System Education, the Department of Geology & Meteorology (http://hurri.kean.edu), at Kean University. If you would like more information or have questions please call us at 908-737-3728; or email us at
[email protected]. Darren Milliron, used by permission = KU student, Sussex County NJ
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10 NOVEMBER 5, 2008
THE TOWER
SPORTS
In Defense of Professional Soccer By Aydin Reyhan
When asked about the most popular sports in America, people tend to say baseball, basketball or football. Some even put tennis up there, or hockey. What is hard to understand, however, is how no one mentions the most popular sport in the world -- soccer. In Central America, South America, Asia, Africa, and most of all in Europe, soccer is mainly the only sport spoken of. Soccer brings people together all around the world. It is an amazing sport to watch and even better to play. Soccer is most popular in Europe because that is where all the best teams are nationally (besides Argentina and Brazil, of course) and at club level. But soccer seems unknown to Americans, except for people who actually follow the game via technology. Sure people play it for fun in America, but that’s all they do. When watching or talking about football, basketball, or baseball, it is amazing to see and hear the passion that fans have in their hearts. That is how I, and surely many other people, feel about soccer. Many soccer fans here, however, do not get the chance to express how they feel about soccer. My goal is to remind fans that are not speaking up to let their voices be heard and to show this, our beloved U.S.A., how important soccer really is and to make it more popular among the American people. Europe is where most of the action is. Just this past summer sixteen European nations proudly took part in an international tournament that only takes place every four years: UEFA Euro 2008. It was a great tournament with great teams that weren’t afraid to go for victory. Usu-
ally in tournaments like these, teams are much more cautious so they defend for more than half the game. This put amazing attacking soccer on display where beautiful goals were scored and a lot of heart was shown. One nation, Turkey, truly stood out above the rest. Although they only made it to the semifinals, they were absolutely phenomenal. In a game against the co-host, Switzerland, Turkish wonder kid Arda Turan scored what could arguably be one of the tournament’s most memorable goals to win the game 2-1 at the very last minute. In the semi-finals, Phillip Lahm scored a heart-breaking goal against the Turks to finally end their amazing run in what was the most memorable tournament for the nation. Being Turkish myself, I was on the verge of tears after feeling their “no lose” attitude that was put in their mind by legendary coach Fatih Terim. The whole tournament inspired me and surely many others to go for what they desire without giving up until they receive it. EURO 2008 is just one soccer tournament that is breath taking. There is also the FIFA World Cup which also takes place once every four years. The UEFA Cup which is the second most prestigious European club competition where teams that finish third, fourth, and fifth in the countries take place in, and the UEFA Champions League where the champions, second place, and some third place teams take part in each and every year from September to May. Soccer is a beautiful game that can be shocking and unbelievable in any game at any given time. One day in the near future when it becomes more known in this country only then will people realize how and why it truly is the best sport in the world.
Field Hockey Team’s 12-Game Winning Streak Ends By Nicole Von Gonten
Entering the game against Elizabethtown College on October 25, Kean had a winning streak of 12 games and looked to keep it going. Elizabethtown, ranked 13th, proved to be no easy task, but Kean was up for the challenge. The Blue Jays netted the first goal of the day off a penalty corner kick
board. Katie McGee fed a pass to Gibbs, who scored her 22nd goal of the season and tied the game. Kean took its first lead of the day off a penalty stroke by Lauren Kusik as the half loomed. As time expired in the first period the Cougars added another goal by Erica Kelly to make it 3-1. Montclair cut Kean’s lead in the second period with its second goal of the day. This goal by Montclair was the last of the day
The Cougars jumped out to a quick lead in the first period when Triano passed to Gibbs for the first goal of the day. Triano added another assist on the day when she set up a goal for Kelly. The final goal of the period came off a penalty stroke by Kusik. The Cougars headed into the half with a 3-0 lead. Kean continued the scoring in the second period. Three minutes into the period
McGee scored off a corner kick to extend the Cougars’ lead to 4-0. The Cougars added two more goals before time expired. Triano scored on an unassisted goal, and Julie Bachovchin scored on a penalty stroke to give Kean a dominating 6-0 win. The Cougars close out the regular season with key games coming up against New Jersey Athletic Conference rivals.
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Katie McGee and Erica Kelly look to score for Kean
11 minutes into the game. A minute later Kean answered back with a goal to tie. The tying goal came off a pass by Stephanie Cirino to Brittany Gibbs. The Cougars and Blue Jays headed into halftime tied 1-1. Most of the second half was dominated by both teams’ defenses. With eight minutes remaining in the half, Elizabethtown took its first lead of the game, 2-1, since early in the first period. Andrea Miles’ tie-breaking goal was all Elizabethtown needed for the win. The Blue Jays added two more goals within two minutes of each other to hand the Cougars their first loss in 12 games. The Cougars traveled to face New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) rival Montclair State University on October 22 in a tough-fought match. The Red Hawks scored the first goal on the day when Megan Walsh received the rebound off Kean goalie Ashlie Berghold. A short time later the Cougars got on the
by either team. Kean held on to win 3-2, with goalie Berghold recording six saves on the day. The Cougars looked to continue their winning streak at home against Rhodes College on October 19. The first period saw Kean take the early lead. Gibbs led the scoring attack for the Cougars off of an assist from McGee, and a minute later she added her second goal on the day, with an assist from Olivia Triano. Kean headed into the half with a 2-0 lead. The Cougars secured their shut out over Rhodes with another goal with four minutes left in the contest. Kelly scored the third and last goal of the game on an unassisted play as Kean out shot Rhodes College 12-6. Under the lights of Kean University Alumni Stadium on October 14 the Cougars looked to continue their dominance against Western Connecticut State University.
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NOVEMBER 5, 2008 11
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SPORTS
Cougars Absorb Tough Loss But Bounce Back Strongly By Nicole VonGonten
With the excitement of Homecoming in the air, and riding a recent two-game winning streak, the Cougars looked to add to their impressive season when The College at Brockport traveled to Kean on October 18. The College at Brockport scored the first touchdown of the game in stunning fashion. Kean had marched down the field to Brockport’s 30-yard line. The Cougars’ Billy Daniels lined up for a field goal, but Brockport blocked the kick. Cevon Carver returned the blocked field goal for a touchdown. On its next possession Brockport extended its lead to 13-0 with another touchdown and the quarter ended with the same score. The Cougars quickly scored in the second quarter. Tom D’Ambrisi completed a 25-yard pass to one of his favorite targets, Durell Dukes, for Kean’s first touchdown. Brockport regained its two-touchdown lead on the next possession. Garet Lynch ran for an eight- yard touchdown, but Brockport failed to score the extra point and led 19-7. Before the quarter ended Kean was able to cut the lead again. Dukes scored his second touchdown of the day on a six-yard run, to cut Kean’s deficit to 19-14 going into halftime. The third quarter saw Brockport extend its lead yet again. Felipe Diaz scored on a ten- yard pass from Zack Luke. The Cougars could not answer back in the third quarter and the quarter ended with Brockport on top 27-14. The Cougars kept possession going into
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the fourth quarter. Kean completed a series of 12 plays as Dukes scored on a 15yard run, and Daniels completed the extra point to cut Brockport’s lead to 27-21. On their next possession Kean scored again when D’Ambrisi connected with Dukes for his fourth touchdown of the day to put Kean ahead ,28-27. The Cougars did not hold onto the lead for long, Brockport regained the lead on a field goal, 30-28.
Homecoming victory. That would prove not to be true, though. Brockport stunned Kean by scoring a touchdown with six seconds remaining in the game for a 36-34 win, handing the Cougars their second loss of the season. The Cougars looked to bounce back from their tough Homecoming loss when they traveled to Morrisville State College on October 25.
for the touchdown. The score remained tied 7-7 as the half ended. Morrisville broke the tie quickly in the second quarter. Kris Childs ran for the 14-yard touchdown to give Morrisville the lead 14-7. Kean would cut Morrisville’s lead to 14-10 when Rick Jaeger connected on a 39-yard field goal. On their next possession the Cougars took the lead. Jared Chunn scored on a 54-yard run for a Kean
The Cougars turned the page from their tough loss
Defense looks to stop Brockport from scoring
With a minute and a half remaining Kean looked to have regained the lead for good. Sean Atkins completed a nine-play drive with a one-yard touchdown run giving Kean a 34-30 lead. Everything appeared as if for a second year in a row Kean would have a stunning
The first ten minutes of the first quarter saw neither team score. With five minutes remaining in the quarter Morrisville got on the board first with a 7-0 lead. Kean shortly followed two minutes later with a touchdown to tie the game. D’Ambrisi connected on a 27-yard pass to Alex Cade
lead of 17-14. The momentum came back to Kean when Victor D’Arrigo returned a fumble for a 49-yard touchdown. The game headed into halftime with Kean leading 24-14. The early third quarter saw the Cougars add to their lead. Quarterback D’Ambrisi ran in for an 11-yard touchdown to extend Kean’s lead to 31-14. Morrisville scored a touchdown to cut Kean’s lead to ten, 3121. Before the quarter ended the Cougars added another touchdown to their lead when Chunn ran for a one-yard score to make it 38-21. Morrisville scored in the fourth quarter to cut the Cougars’ lead to 38-28, but that is all they would get. Kean won the game by the same score. The Cougars had turned the page from their tough loss to Brockport and returned to their winning ways.
Men’s Soccer Team Finds Ways to Win By Nicole VonGonten
The Cougars traveled to Rowan University on October 15 for a tough conference game and a chance to change their luck against New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) rivals. Most of the first half was scoreless as both defenses played well. In the 35th minute of the half the Cougars put the first goal on the board. Rob Sopko and Andres Berriel combined to assist Mark Wallis on the first goal of the game. Time expired in the half with the Cougars still leading Rowan, 1-0. The momentum quickly changed in the second half. Rowan tied the game in the 54th minute on a goal by Tommy Orr. Ten minutes later the tie was broken when Rowan’s Jay Vigilante beat Alfredo Oquendo to the post. Kean could not match Rowan’s last goal, and was handed its ninth loss in as many games. Kean looked to change its fortunes in double overtime against Rutgers University-Newark on October 18.
If the first half was any indication of how the game would play out, then it showed that it was going to be a toughfought game. Neither team allowed a goal in the first half. Everything quickly changed in the second half. Rutgers netted the first goal of the game. Innocent Buule scored the first goal off a corner kick by Joe Caamano. In the 77th minute the Cougars tied the game when Marc Cifelli assisted Mikhail Kholodenko on the last goal of regulation. The teams headed into overtime with a score of 1-1. The first overtime proved to be much like the first half of the game. Both teams kept each other off the board long enough for time to expire and send the game into a second overtime. In double overtime it appeared to be the same story but with 16 seconds remaining Kean’s Sebastian Basion scored the game winning goal to give the Cougars the 2-1 victory. On October 22, the Cougars traveled to Albright College for a non-conference game. Kean and Albright played a toughly fought first half as both defenses kept the
game scoreless going into halftime. In the second half Kean wasted no time taking the lead. The Cougars’ Basion was awarded a corner kick, and off the kick came a goal by Wallis. Kean continued to keep Albright from scoring for the rest of the game. Regulation time expired and Kean secured its second victory in a row, 1-0, as Cougars’ goalie Oquendo had four saves on the day. Kean returned home on October 25 for a NJAC game against Richard Stockton College. Much like its previous game, Kean kept Stockton off the board in the first half, while Stockton kept them scoreless as well. For the second straight game the Cougars headed into half time with a scoreless tie. On this day Kean did not come out on top in the second half. Stockton took the lead in the 58th minute when Sean Nelson passed to Ray Nelson, who scored on a breakaway. This lone goal for Stockton was the game winner, ending Kean’s two game winning streak.
The Tower invites the campus community to send us opinions and essays to feature on the Op-Ed Page. We are seeking a diversity of opinion on a broad range of issues that affect students not just at Kean, but in the larger society as well. Please email submissions of 100-600 words to be considered for publication to
[email protected]. The Tower reserves the right to edit or refuse publication for journalistic reasons.
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12 NOVEMBER 5, 2008
THE TOWER
SPORTS
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT By Jessie Rivera
STACEY DZVILESKI Kean University’s Women’s Soccer Team
JR What is your major? SD Special Education/Early Childhood Ed. JR How long have you been on the team? SD This is my fourth year JR What did it take for you to make the team? SD Before you make the team you have to go through about a two week period called preseason where we train, do heavy fitness, work on technical and tactical ability, etc. It is a tough two weeks, but once you have completed them it makes you feel great about what you’ve accomplished. JR What position do you play? SD Defense JR If you could pick a different position to play what would it be and why? SD I would have to say forward because growing up I played forward. I like being able to stop goals, but it would be nice to score a goal again lol.
JR Has it been difficult to be a student athlete? SD It is demanding. It’s all about management. For example, if you know we have games Weds nights you should not wait until Weds to do a project due Thursday. During the season and off season we also have mandatory study halls which are extremely beneficial to us. JR Do you see a difference with the team from when you started up to where you are now? If so, what? SD I believe that every team’s chemistry is going to be different. My teams chemistry was different my freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior year. Every year we were extremely close with one another and I believe that is a huge part of thriving as a team. Since my freshman year, for the most part, Kean Women’s Soccer has been extremely successful. JR What is your greatest memory from being on the team? SD Hands down my greatest memory here is beating Rowan, my freshman year, at their field in penalty kicks which ad-
vanced us to the Conference Playoffs. I can still picture what the stands looked like that night and how they rushed the field when we won. That was by far my best memory at Kean. JR What team do you look forward to playing against? SD That’s a tough question because in college soccer you need to look forward to playing every team. However, our conference, the NJAC (New Jersey Athletic Conference) is very intense and we are all rivals with one another. JR Is soccer something you want to continue after your done with the season? SD Soccer has been my life growing up and it will be sad and a little weird just to be done when our season ends. I know former teammates try out for various club teams which would definitely be a possibility because I know I will miss playing.
Lady Cougars Looking Forward to Conference Tournament By Jessie Rivera
As the season entered its final stages, Kean’s Lady Cougars faced a rough week. With only one home win, they lost three out of four games, two at home and one away. The Lady Cougars still have a chance to compete in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Tournament, but all they can do now is train and work together as a team. The Rowan University Profs came to Union on October 15 with an intensity to win. The competitiveness between both teams was evident; one minute half the audience was half-way off their seats holding their breath, as the other half were hiding their faces in their hands. No matter which way it went, both teams played to their fullest potential. Unfortunately, toward the end of the first half Rowan scored against the Cougars for the 1-0 lead to conclude the half. In the second half, Rowan came back to score three more goals to finish the game with a 4-0 shutout. With their previous conference game loss against Rowan University, the Lady Cougars were prepared to earn back a win. Rutgers-Newark arrived at Kean University on October 18 for a night game. With a lead of 11 shots on goal over Rutgers-Newark, the Lady Cougars played as if they never lost a game just a couple of nights before. Although the first half ended in a 0-0 tie, the Cougars picked up their game when Samantha Ciccone scored to put Kean in a 1-0 lead. In the 50th minute, Rutgers’ Jessica Gavilanes received a yellow card, as Whitney Huber received a red card just a minute later, causing her to be taken out of the game. Julia Caseres tied up the game 1-1 when a penalty kick was called in favor of Rutgers-Newark. The Lady Cougars were not going to allow another loss on their record, and in the last nine minutes of the game, junior Nicolette Maggio scored the winning goal to end the game, 2-1. Western Connecticut State University arrived at Kean Alumni Stadium on October 21 for a tough match-up against the Cougars. The Western Connecticut Colonials took charge in the first half as they dominated with six shots on goal over the Cougars’ two shots, and shut out Kean with three corner kicks. The half ended in a 0-0 tie, but the Lady Cougars turned things around in the second half. Although they could not execute their chances to score from the three free kicks called in their favor, the Cougars did succeed in leading with eight shots on goal over the Colonials’ five shots. With just five minutes remaining in the game, Western Connecticut’s Catherine Nathans scored the winning goal to end the game with a 2-1 victory over the Lady Cougars. Kean University traveled to Richard Stockton College for its last away game of the regular season on October 25. It was an evenly matched first half, as the Cougars led with four shots on goal over the Ospreys’ three. In the 38th minute, the Ospreys’ Samantha Bean scored to put her team up 1-0. Shortly after, Kean’s Samantha Ciccone received a yellow card to end the half. Richard Stockton continued to lead in the second half, as Leah Pocoroba scored the second goal for the Ospreys. With a 2-0 advantage over Kean, Richard Stockton dominated with 10 shots on goal over the Cougars’ three. Senior Amanda Pitts managed to score in the 53rd minute of the game with an assist by
Team huddles before the start of the second half against Western Connecticut State University
Jenna Godwin, but it was not going to be enough as the Lady Cougars fell short 2-1. After these past games, the Kean University’s women’s soccer team dropped to 10-6 overall and 4-4 in the NJAC. At press time, the Lady Cougars were scheduled to face Ramapo College on October 29 at Kean Alumni Stadium for their last game of the season.
RECENT SCORES FOOTBALL: 11/1 Kean 22 Rowan University 30
Women’s Soccer: 10/29 Kean 1 Ramapo College 0
MEN’S SOCCER: 10/26 Kean 0, University of Rochester 3
Field Hockey: 10/30 Kean 0 The College of New Jersey 4
10/29 Kean 1, Ramapo College 0
GO COUGARS!!
