My Summer Beauty Addicts P. 6 John & Jay as a TV Studio NFLPredictions P. 16 Intern P. 4 GREATDEALS! STUDENT See coupons on The Tower pages 12 & 15 www.kean.edu/~thetower Kean University’s student newspaper Volume 10 • Issue 1 September, 2009 Kean Reorganization Underway

By Joseph Tingle Communication Sciences and Education- al Services, which is expected to make a The Kean University administration change by 2010. The department, which has reorganized several academic depart- focuses on programs to strengthen read- ments and opened four new schools with- ing and literacy, will be integrated into in the college this semester. the department of middle, secondary, and Proposed by the administration and ap- special education. proved by the board of trustees in June, “It’s about budget, but that’s not what most of the reorganization has already it’s all about,” said Dr. Lender. taken effect and is now mostly complete. The reorganization is meant to get the Besides creating the four new schools, the University “ahead of the curve” by focus- plan also included the integration of the ing on its strengths while also creating department of Philosophy and the depart- opportunities for the University to gain ment of Foreign Languages into several of more funding, both from the public and the University’s larger departments, ac-

Photo: Ana Maria Silverman cording to Dr. Mark Lender, the interim Welcome Back Kean! (See centerfold, pgs 8-9.) vice president of Academic Affairs. In ad- "When times are tough, dition, the Media & Film Studies depart- you’ve got to think ahead." ment has been moved from the School of Visual & Performing Arts, and reunited Ramos Expects Change with the Communication department private sector. The four new schools, ac- in the School of Humanities & Social cording to Dr. Lender, have been created By Kelly Pennisi through Student Org to help students Sciences. due to the presence of student and faculty become more involved and attend more The future of the department of Social interest, and the possibility for raising ex- Scott Ramos, the new president of university events. Work, which was a subject of concern ternal funds. Student Organization, Kean’s full time So far, Ramos and Student Org have among some students and faculty last For example, the new School of Nurs- student government, has taken office made good on that promise. Last Satur- semester, is currently being reviewed by ing promises to make it easier for Kean and wants to change student’s percep- day recording artist Pitbull, whose Rebelu- what Dr. Lender described as an out-of- to compete for federal funds enacted by tions about the university and the student tion album reached #8 on U.S. charts and state, nationally renowned authority. the federal Stimulus Bill, according to in- government. #1 on rap charts, performed at a welcome “There were a number of concerns about formation provided by the Office of Aca- Ramos, who ran under the ticket, “Ex- back concert sponsored by Student Org. the management of the department, the demic Affairs. pect Change” last semester, said that he Concerts, like the Pitbull concert that viability of the program, and the pro- The Kean Federation of Teachers, which ran for president for one reason- he want- sold out and was held on Sept. 12 in gram’s expense,” Dr. Lender said. is the Kean chapter of the American Fed- ed to change things. Wilkins Theatre, are usually reserved for He also said that although the full re- eration of Teachers union led by Dr. James “I felt that things can and should be next month's homecoming, and next se- view of the department will not be com- Castiglione, opposes the reorganization fixed, and I decided to take that step,” mester's Unity week. plete until November, the current plan and has begun pursuing the university’s said Ramos. “The work we do is hard,” said Ramos to for Social Work focuses on the Master’s grievance process, Dr. Castiglione said. Ramos said he is aware that not every- an almost-packed Wilkins Theater. “But program, which has been moved to a new He said that the KFT feels the re- body knows what Student Organization when I see everyone in this auditorium, dean in the Nathan Weiss Graduate Col- organization has been rushed, and is is, and wants to fix that. With his concern it’s worth it.” lege and is unconnected with the under- based on personnel issues rather than aca- of school pride, Ramos plans on increas- Ramos also said another goal he would graduate Social Work program. demic ones. ing the level of school spirit by working like to achieve is in- (Continued on page 5) Also in transition is the department of “Usually, these (Continued on page 4)

SWINE FLU: TIPS ON AVOIDING IT (see pg. 11)

INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER: What was the most memorable part of your summer? By Charley Falkenburg

Brielle Kerken Michael Milazzo Nick Muzzillo Stephanie Romano Senior, Early Childhood Education Senior, Communication Senior, Communication Junior, English and Secondary Education

"The best part of my summer was "The most memorable part of my sum- "I spent my summer in North Carolina "The greatest part of my summer was white water rafting at Lake George in mer was going to the Biosphere Natu- jet skiing, bike riding, and being on producing a charity show in East New York." ral Exhibit in Montreal." the beach." Brunswick that raised $10,000."

New Dorms at Kean 2 Rachel's Rave! 6 Do I Have Swine Flu? 11 Eating Healthy on the Cheap 3 Gaming on a College Budget 6 Women's & Men's Sports 12-15 University Center Make-over 5 Editorial & Life @ Work 10 NFL Predictions: John & Jay's Picks 16 2 September, 2009 | The Tower Kean Salutes the Great American Newspaper Good Journalism is Incredibly Important

By Lillie Morales-Torres old-fashioned typewriter, trench coat and a typical reporter’s fedora. After discovering hundreds of newspa- The New York Times and The Star-Led- pers that dated back centuries in the base- ger are prominently featured front pages ment of Liberty Hall, the staff at the Kean throughout the show. Also displayed are University museum knew they had to find New York’s Herald Tribune and Journal a way to highlight this incredible find. American, and New Jersey newspapers, Now, more than a year and much work the Elizabeth Daily Journal and the Newark later, the find has culminated in the open- News, now all out of print. ing of “Headline News: The Life Transfor- Headlines like the shooting of President mation of the Great American Newspaper” Abe Lincoln is encased in glass next to a inside the Karl and Helen Berger Gallery front page late-day edition on Nov. 22, at the Center for Academic Success. The 1963 announcing John F. Kennedy’s as- exhibit is open weekdays from 11 a.m. sassination. through Oct. 28. The exhibit covers the history of news- “The exhibit is coming at a good time,” papers and also features special areas said Terry Golway, director of the John of news coverage, ranging from war to Kean Center of American History and co- crime to so-called “women’s pages.” A curator of the exhibit, who led the show’s Photos: Lillie Morales-Torres woman’s page from the 1920’s shows how The exhibit features a replica of an old newsroom, circa 1940s. effort working with Pat Winters Lauro, much ladies dress styles have changed, for assistant professor of journalism in the front page featured in the exhibit is a copy exhibit interactive. Guests dial into a cell instance, but also how the clothing Communication Department; Susan Ga- of The Gazette dated Nov. 7, 1789. Found- phone to hear local reporters talk about people today wear is still inspired by the rino, Kean’s coordinator of historic struc- ed in 1789, the Gazette served as the voice journalism or to listen to excerpts of sto- old times. tures; and William Schroh, Kean’s director of President George Washington’s new ad- ries by famous reporters such as Jimmy Long before the web—or even radio or of museum operations. ministration. Maybe that’s how it was left TV—the newspaper was America’s main “Many people are unsure of the security there too. Treasury Secretary Alexander source of news. It was newspapers that of the newspaper,” Golway added. “When Hamilton, who lived at Liberty Hall for a developed the art and craft of journalism, we found all of the newspapers in the Lib- short time, urged the supporters of George resulting in such news mainstays today erty Hall museum, I realized that we had Washington to launch the Gazette. as crime coverage, investigative journal- to find a way to show them.” The Gazette is also the oldest artifact ism and feature writing. The newspaper A tour through the exhibit is like walk- at Liberty Hall, which was the ancestral also helped to record history for future ing through a time capsule. The oldest home of the Kean family, one of New Jer- generations. sey’s oldest families and the namesake of “I hope it shows students that good Kean University. John Kean and his wife, The front page of Gazette, dated Nov. 7, 1789 is journalism is incredibly important and Pam, along with Kean University Presi- the oldest artifact at Liberty Hall. necessary,” Lauro said of the exhibit. “We dent Dawood Farahi, and Neil Tetkowski, Breslin, read by student’s from Kean’s need good journalism not only for democ- the director of the Berger gallery, officially theatre department. racy to thrive, but because whether you opened the exhibit on Sept. 10. The exhibit also showcases video snip- call it a newspaper or web news or what- A special feature is an audio tour, a pets of great newspaper movies such as ever, coverage of a place creates a sense of first for Kean and adapted for the gal- “Citizen Kane” as well as a replica of a community in a world where there is pre- Some of the featured front pages. lery by Garino in an effort to make the newsroom from the old days, featuring an cious little of it.”

Kean Students Meet New Dorms Old Residence Halls See Upgrades as New Halls Open

By Rachel Rothspan sized, stainless steel refrigerators, and Residence Hall also has a screening room really careful,” she said. microwaves, in addition to the furnished where student events will take place, as Sara Fergenson, also a junior, is living in For many students who live on campus, bedrooms. Both the Freshman and Up- planned by the staff of the hall. one of the tradition halls, Burch Hall, in college is more than just a place to attend perclassmen Residence Halls include cable Erin Sugrue, a junior at Kean, is a Resi- a four person suite with two other room- classes—it’s a place to hang your back- TV, internet,and telephone, as well as air dent Assistant in the freshman hall and mates. She confesses that, while the new pack, to stay up late studying, and meet conditioning and heating that can be con- said that there are many perks to living in rooms have more amenities, the old halls new people. Residence life is constantly appeal to her more because of their size. making additions to give new features She also says that the proximity to cam- to those who chose to live here at Kean. pus made the difference for her when it Students who applied to live on the school came down to making the decision on grounds last semester and over the sum- which place to request. mer had two new options, thanks to the “I like the fact that my room is re- completion of two new residence halls on ally close to classes,” she said. “I feel like campus. The new buildings are housing the new residence builings [are their] their first set of students this semester. own village.” The new residence halls, one for fresh- She also has the comfort of the features men and the other for upperclassmen, of the new halls within her building- the have a number of appealing attributes. old halls were given couches and appli- The Freshman Residence Hall can house ances such as refrigerators to match that of their classmates in the new residence halls, while still costing roughly one thou- “I feel like the new sand dollars less per year to live in. residence buildings [are Either way, both Sugrue and Fergenson are happy to be on campus this fall and their] own village.” living with their classmates away from the hustle of normal home life. They agree 420 students in suites that include two Views of Kean's newest residence halls. that living on campus is the right choice bedrooms, a private bathroom, and a trolled from each room. And both come the new buildings. She classifies them as for them. common area which accommodates four fully carpeted and furnished with ward- more modern, roomier, and more color- The New Residence halls have been cre- people. The Upperclassman Hall can hold robes and desks. ful. While she was assigned to the room ated from scratch, the traditional halls 408 students, and is also compromised of The New Residence Halls focus on stu- because of her position, she is really en- have been updated with new bits and gad- suites, some with double bedrooms and dent life and students interactiong. Both joying her new home. But there are nega- gets to give them a brand new feel. The some with singles. The upperclassman resident halls have study rooms and game tives, Sugrue said. conclusion; any residence hall on campus kitchens come with kitchen sets with full rooms for students. The Upperclassman “Everything is new, so you have to be is a good place to live, the students said. The Tower | September, 2009 3 Kean Pride the Theme of President Farahi Address

By Joseph Tingle mental reorganization. Morris Avenue to the Elizabeth train sta- The president was optimistic about the tion into a new “university avenue,” likely Kean University President Dawood Fara- future of Kean University, and pointed dotted with stores, trendy intellectual ca- hi delivered an upbeat address welcoming out that Kean will continue to make need- fes, and faculty and graduate housing. Dr. back the Kean community on Sept. 1 in ed changes despite tough economic times. Farahi stated that the project would begin Wilkins Theater, setting an energetic tone Two new schools, the School of Environ- in three to five years. for the upcoming academic year. mental Studies and the undergraduate Dr. Farahi also used his welcoming ad- The speech, which was attended by some School of Sustainability have been ap- dress as a chance to honor the success of 900 board members, faculty, professional proved, according to Dr. Farahi. Also, the the university’s academic departments. staff, and students took place in the early University is nearing the completion of its Among those noted, Dr. Farahi com- afternoon and announced future proj- new science building, and in the process mended the History department faculty, ects, congratulated last year’s successes, of renovating the Cougar’s Den, which, which published more than 40 books last and emphasized the importance of according to the president, will reopen in year, and the English department for its staff and students having pride in the November. new Masters of Arts in English Writing evolving university. program. He also honored Kean’s students “[Kean] will not go backwards,” said “The future may be beyond for making community service a prior- Dr. Farahi early in his opening remarks, ity and increasingly important to student asserting that most students, staff, and our control, but it is not groups. Dr. Farahi praised the award win- faculty are proud to be a part of what ning “Blues Goes Green” environmental many consider to be a transforming beyond our vision.” campaign, and congratulated the football Kean University, a motif which would be Kean University President, Dr. Farahi. team for raising over $10,000 for cancer repeated throughout the speech’s hour Also on the University’s agenda is a research over the last two years. long duration. compost facility which will transform the mobile application download (an APP) for In his closing remarks, Dr. Farahi again Dr. Farahi did not mention specifically university’s estimated 10 to 12 tons of cell phones for free. stressed the importance of pride in Kean which policies the University would not food waste into fertilizer. Dr. Farahi also Most ambitious of the university’s and constructive participation from those go back on, but the remarks come after announced that the presidential “Issues” plans, however, was the announcement in attendance. an academic year in which the administra- lecture series, which began last year, will of a verbally approved plan between Dr. “The future may be beyond our control, tion incorporated a controversial schedule also continue this year, and that the col- Farahi and Chris Bollwage, the mayor of but it is not beyond our vision,” Dr. Farahi change and minimally publicized depart- lege is also launching a new Kean-centered Elizabeth, which would turn the area from said. Eating Healthy Doesn't Have to Cost so Much Chipotle: The Freshest Place to Eat on Rt. 22

By Megan Muller in 2005. In October of 2006, McDonald’s whatever your stomach desires. One addi- the University of Denver campus. It’s also sold their entire stake in the company and tional treat that you can never get enough on display in every Chipotle location, even Are you already tired of the cafeteria Chipotle’s full divestment was complete. of is the ever tasty, extra chunky guaca- though they may all be modernizing. food on campus? Or, perhaps you’re look- Although McDonald’s helped Chipotle mole; it’s to die for! “We want to incorporate elements of ing for somewhere to take your date on get its foot in the door, please don’t as- In 2008, Where Toronto, a hospitality sustainable design into all of our new res- a Saturday night without breaking the sociate it with just another greasy burg- magazine, said in a review that “freshness taurants,” Ells said. bank. Maybe you’re ready to give your er-and-fries fast-food joint. Health.com and flavor aren’t the typical hallmarks of As of March 2009, there are 830 restau- taste buds a little treat. For those of you has included Chipotle in its list of the fast food, but both are undeniably present rants throughout the United States and who have been living under a rock for the “Healthiest Fast Food Restaurants.” Are at the first Canadian location of Chipotle Canada. Each establishment is company- past 16 years, grab a seat and be prepared you an individual who needs a gluten- Mexican Grill.” owned, rather than franchised. Ells still to eat well. free diet? Only the flour tortillas which It’s not just the food that separates serves as chairman and CEO today. They Chipotle Mexican Grill, whose name are used for the burritos and soft tacos Chipotle from other fast-food restaurants; have not reached their maximum poten- derives from the Mexican Spanish name contain gluten. it’s the architecture of each establishment. tial however. Ells is reaching for the stars for a smoked dried jalapeno chili, was A mission statement called “Food with Although each store is unique, they are all and continues to search for real estate to founded in 1993 by CEO Steve Ells and Integrity” was released by Chipotle in was originally based in Denver, Colorado. 2001. This statement highlights the res- “Freshness and flavor aren’t the typical hallmarks of With an $85,000 loan from his father, Ells taurant’s commitment to use naturally- created one of the first chain establish- raised meat, organic produce and dairy fast food, but both are undeniably present at the... ments in the new and trendy category of without hormones. Most of their products fast-casual dining. come from family farms such as Joel Sala- Chipotle Mexican Grill.” With a menu covering everything from tin’s Polyface Farm in Virginia and Niman burrito bowls to soft tacos, Chipotle Ranch in California. All chicken and pork built using most of the same materials. open new locations. If you have an area quickly became a restaurant whose line used in the meals are open-range, antibi- The interiors all have a look of “industrial, you think would help this company, visit was literally out the door. Ells knew he otic free and with a vegetarian diet, as well sheet metal.” However, newer locations the website at www.chipotle.com and let had something great cooking up, and it as 50% of the beef. have begun to use white ceramic tile in- them know! wasn’t just the fajitas. GreezBiz.com praised Chipotle by say- stead of stainless steel because of the rela- The good news? A Chipotle Mexican In 1998, McDonald’s began to notice the ing they are “the first and only national tive ease of recycling the white tile. Grill has just opened up less than 3 miles potential in these small establishments, restaurant company committed to buying Bruce Gueswel is Chipotle’s very own away on Route 22 in Springfield. The bad then with 16 restaurants open, and made local on a significant scale.” sculptor. All of the wood-and-metal sculp- news? You’re going to be hooked! a minority investment in the company. Chipotle serves their food in a type of tures of human figures were designed Within four years, they became Chipotle’s assembly line. You tell them your version by Gueswel as well as the design of the If you’re looking for a great place to work, sub- largest investor and gave Ells the opportu- of the perfect burrito, choose your ingre- chairs. You can also find a picture of the mit an interest form on the website as well. nity to expand to over 500 establishments dients and they will happily oblige to meet original restaurant on Evans Avenue near

Pick up The Tower at these locations

• Administration Building, • ESL Office, • Science Building, • Townsend Hall, First floor lobby Willis Hall 301 First Floor in hallway First Floor reception area between Rooms 121 and 122 • Bruce Hall, • Harwood Arena, • Vaughn-Eames Hall, First Floor Lounge by the basketball courts • Technology Building, First Floor Lobby hallway inside front door • Center for Academic • Hutchinson Hall, • Willis Hall, First Floor, across Success, Lobby First Floor Lobby • Tower Newsroom, from the elevator CAS 413 • Communications • Hennings Hall, Department Office, First Floor Lobby • University Center, CAS 402 across from the cafeteria entrance 4 September, 2009 | The Tower My Summer as a Spanish Television Studio Intern

By Lillie Morales-Torres as floor manager when they were on to help make sure everything looked good As spring semester came to an end, I be- on the set. I met people like singers, ac- gan to question my plans for the summer. tors, playwrights, doctors, and musicians. Originally, I had planned on taking two I met Latin artists like merengue singer classes, but then realized that the hours Elvis Crespo, bachata singers Andy Andy wouldn’t work out with my toddler’s child and El Torito, , which is like care. I thought about obtaining an intern- but in Spanish, winners, ship either at a magazine or television sta- and many local New York playwrights tion, but I knew it was too late to apply. and actors. My most memorable time was So, I decided to relax and take some time meeting legendary singer Jose Jose. His for myself. kindness showed when he gave me tickets Then, in mid June, I received an e-mail to see him in concert that weekend. from Doug Black, former member of the The highlight of my internship was Kean television studio in the Media and spending the day with reporter Sandra Film Department. Doug spoke to a friend O’Neil. Learning behind the scenes was from the Spanish news station, , great and helped me understand how the about me and two other students from show is produced. It really takes good team Kean. The station was offering internship work to put on a show. But, the fact that opportunities to college students and was what I really want to report, not produce, accepting applications for the summer. Al- made the experience more exciting. though it wasn’t one of my plans, it was a My day with Sandra started out at 4 a.m. wonderful opportunity that I didn’t want going to New York to report about Sonia to miss out on. So, I went for it. Sotomayor, who is the first Hispanic (Puer- Shortly after submitting my resume torican) female to be appointed to the Su- Lillie Morales-Torres at work at the Univision offices. and reel, I was called in for an interview. I preme Court. Sandra and her camera crew interest in entertainment news and fash- small staff because of many job cuts the were great and very encouraging as they ion, they decided I’d be great for the morn- station had suffered this year. Everyone gave me good advice and tips. From them, ing show, Al Despertar. Like your average was very nice and welcoming even though I saw how reports are transmitted live and morning show, Al Despertar offers view- they were sleep deprived and surviving on they even let me practice a live report. Af- ers local news, international news, top coffee. terwards, we went for breakfast and later news, entertainment news, sports news, I worked closely with the producers of went to cover a breaking story on a mur- and special guests. Some days they had the show for the first two or three weeks. der. It was a tragic story about the killing cooking segments, other days they had ce- They showed me how they gather news for of a young college student who was found lebrity actors and singers. As excited as I the morning show and book guests, how dead by her mother in their apartment. was, the only challenge was the schedule: the assignment desk works, how to check Seeing the family devastated and the CSI Monday through Wednesday, from 3 a.m. timing on news packages, how to work taking their daughter’s body out in a bag Lillie Morales-Torres with singer Jose Jose. until 11 a.m. What started out as a mellow with the Avid program, how to write titles, was heartbreaking. was a bit nervous, but hoped for the best. summer had suddenly turned into a very and much more. My other challenge was The experience made me think. Re- One of the producers at the station went busy one. porting stories of that kind can’t be easy. over my resume and asked about my ex- Waking up at 1 a.m. to get ready for Reporters will see all types of tragedies, perience in television. Having worked as a work was definitely an experience for which can place them in danger, and can production assistant for another Spanish me, but the commute was great because I become depressing. It may look easy and television station, Telemundo, and with never got caught up in traffic. It wasn’t so glamorous to be a television reporter, but the hands on knowledge I had from pre- hard to wake up, but coming back home to it takes a lot of strength, courage, and vious classes in the Kean studio, I knew a go to sleep during the day was hard. My work. thing or two, which was a big help. After body was not used to it at all and I felt like My short, six week experience helped the interview I was asked to take a pop a zombie. me to learn more about the world of news quiz, which I was totally unprepared for. It On my first day, I met the producers of Cast members of the morning show, Al Despertar. media and I am grateful for having had the a was multiple choice quiz with questions Al Despertar who I would report to and writing everything in Spanish. opportunity. I look forward to working in about New Jersey, New York, the Mayors, work closely with. I was surprised to find On other days, I worked with the as- television in the future. And yes, probably newspapers, bridges, and tunnels. I knew that they were both fairly young, in their signment desk person so that I could learn as a reporter. most of it, but there were some questions 30s, and both female. I learned a lot from about her job, and occasionally I sat with To read more about my internship, visit my blog that totally got me like naming all of the these two women and found them to be the anchors and assisted them with book- at: http://lilliemorales.blogspot.com bridges and tunnels of . quite inspiring. I also worked with the ing talent, making phone calls, and send- After reviewing my quiz, I was offered show’s writer, the assignment desk per- ing out emails. the six week internship. Because of my son, the cast, and the reporters. It was a I also assisted the guests and worked

KEAN REORG (Continued from page 1) things take several years,” he said, perhaps a philosophy minor. es will be packaged together as “world lan- act as a vehicle for greater community and referring to the implementation of a Dr. Lender also ensured that no faculty guages,” within the new “School of Global professional outreach, and increase the college-wide reorganization. member has lost his or her job as a result Education and Innovation,” but will no possibility of program and scholarship But when Dr. Castiglione complained of the reorganization. longer have its own department. funding through grants and corporate and to the Board of Trustees at its recent Sep- “We’re not losing people,” Dr. Lender In addition to the School of Global Edu- philanthropic donations.” tember meeting, he said he was “met with said. “We’re putting them where their cation, Kean now has a “School of Envi- The School of Global Education and silence.” The KFT has also called into ques- skills can contribute." ronmental and Life Sciences,” which fo- Innovation will focus on “key 21st Cen- tion some of the academic aspects of the The chairs of dissolved departments cuses on the environment, the economy, tury themes,” such as “financial, economic reorganization. have gone back to full time teaching, in- and society; a “Robert Busch School of De- and business literacy, civic literacy and “How can you have a world-class univer- structing four classes instead of two. Ac- sign” within the College of Visual and Per- health literacy.” sity without a philosophy department?” cording to Dr. Lender, this saves money forming Arts; and a “School of Nursing,” According to Dr. Lender, students Dr. Castilgione asked. because the University does not have to within the College of Natural, Applied, who pay tuition need to know that the Dr. Lender said that the reorganization hire as many additional professors. and Health Sciences. university is making the best possible is open to improvement. “It adds up. You start to save six figures The school of Environmental and Life use of their money, and reallocating mon- “This is the first semester under the pretty quickly,” he said. Sciences will “offer students a strong sci- ey to areas which the university feels are reorganization,” he said. “If the pro- The professors that made up the now- entific and quantitative background nec- most effective. grams don’t work, we’ll work on changing dissolved department of Philosophy, for essary to understand and confront en- “We have to do the most we can on them. If they do [work], we’ll work on ex- example, have moved to some of the Uni- vironmental and economic challenges,” scarce resources,” he said. “When times panding them.” versity’s other departments: one to the according to prepared materials. are tough, you’ve got to think ahead. He also noted that the university would sociology department, two to the political The Robert Busch School of Design, the It’s what we build when times are tough continue to investigate ways to incorpo- science department, and the remaining to materials state, will “confirm the universi- that allows us to do more when times rate higher level philosophy courses, and the college of education. Foreign languag- ty’s commitment to the design disciplines, are better.” The Tower | September, 2009 5 Trustees Approve Contracts; Approve New Program

The Kean University Board of Trustees existing level, but is extended for a fourth Separately, the board approved a part- to the prepared release. gave a nod of support to President Da- year until 2013, instead of for three years, nership between the College of Education The board also approved the award of a wood Farahi at a public meeting Sept. 14, the statement said. and the state that is designed to produce construction contract to Nordic Contract- voting unanimously to continue the pro- The Board noted that it applied to the more physics teachers for New Jersey’s ing to develop an “athletic amenities build- visions of his contract as it relates to his president the same cost-saving measures public schools. ing” that will complete renovations to the salary and retention bonus. applied to other University managers in- The Progressive Science Initiative will football, softball and baseball fields on the The board, in a prepared release, noted cluding a wage freeze and furloughs. take certified teachers and immerse them main campus, and provide supplemental the president’s accomplishments and said The Kean Federation of Teachers, the in a new educational curriculum focused services for Harwood Arena. the vote concludes its annual review of the union representing faculty, has agreed to on physics. Initially, the partnership will The new amenities building, among president’s performance. However, in line take seven furlough days in the 2009-10 help train physics teachers for school dis- other things, will include a weight room with the fiscal climate, the contract calls academic year, and is delaying planned tricts in Jersey City, Paterson and Newark. for students and new restroom facilities for no salary increase. Dr. Farahi’s reten- raises. State workers at Kean are taking However, Kean expects the program has to service the busy athletic area. tion bonus program will continue at its similar actions due to the poor economy. great potential for expansion, according

STUDENT ORG (Continued from page 1) The University Center Gets a Make-Over forming the students at Kean of who and what Student Org is, and let them know Kean Creates a New, Spacious Game Room For Students that through it, students have a voice. Ra- mos, who said he heard rumors that some students consider Student Org to be a By Charley Falkenburg on, and, of course, T.V.s to watch the latest turned into a big lounge where students clique, wants to change that reputation. movies and sitcoms. can run events, such as poetry nights or “For those who view us a clique, I strong- If you’re looking for a bigger and more “This room will have a Dave & Buster's bake sales. This lounge will have more of a ly encourage them to come to our council entertaining lounge area, the wait won't type of appeal,” Ramos said. Dave & Bust- Starbucks atmosphere where students can meetings,” Ramos said. be much longer. Kean University and the ers is a combination game arcade and res- relax and unwind after a hard day’s class. Ramos says that to achieve his goals, he Student Government Organization are taurant-bar that features boardwalk-like Even the administration offices are get- has to have a strategic plan. However, Ra- undertaking a joint effort to fund major attractions such as chance games, Skeet- ting new furniture and carpeting. mos doesn’t have a solo strategy, but relies renovations in the game room and the “It’s kind of like a face lift of the Univer- on his executive board, most of whom ran Cougar’s Den in the University Center. “This room will have a Dave sity,” Ramos said, “This year we have 800 alongside him on ticket “Expect Change” With games, comfort, and fun only min- more students, and our main focus is to last spring. utes away, Kean students can banish bore- & Buster's type of appeal.” accommodate everyone.” They plan to keep close communica- dom, meet new people, and save some One such accommodation is saving tion with each other, to be open-minded cash all in one shot. ball, and advanced life-like videogames. money. The university is looking in to about each other’s ideas, and to remember “We want the game room to have a large The one closest to Kean is probably in having movie “red boxes” placed in the the position that they are in, because stu- and open space so that students won’t be West Nyack, NY at the Palisades Mall University Center so students can rent a dents believe in them and trust them to secluded. They can communicate and in- In mid January, the new and improved movie for $1, which is an advantage to the do what’s best for the students. teract with each other in a positive way,” “sky room” will open, Matt Caruso, presi- students not having to trek off campus. First on the agenda is Ramos’s plan to said Scott Ramos, president of student dent of the Graduate Student Association. “Everything will be right here for them,” work on catered events. This is especially organization. The sky room, which will be much larger Ramos said. in the case of musical performances. With the provided spacious size, the than the old game room, will include the As the renovation continues and until “I want our musical events to be more new lounge will come equipped with end- old T.V lounge, the ice cream parlor area, the new rooms are completed, students diverse,” said Ramos. less amounts of games and activities, such the blue room, and the Martin Luther can look forward to an entertaining Spring More information about Student Org as pool tables, air hockey tables, foosball, King garden. 2010 semester. can be obtained at http://www.kean. ping pong, Nintendo Wii, , Play- While the game room get’s a makeover, Get ready for game time. edu/~stuorg. station 3, tables to play chess and checkers so will the Cougar’s Den. The den will be 6 September, 2009 | The Tower ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Beauty Addicts Rachel's Rave

By Lisa Martinez By Rachel Rothspan in game video highlights, which is every- thing a baseball fan needs to supplement If you’re anything like me with my small Somewhere past the Kean Campus, the game. MBL.com charges more money non-existent lashes, then you are con- trends are starting and flowing and chang- for less content, making this app the inex- stantly on the hunt for mascara that’ll ing. And right here on campus, students pensive way to enjoy the season. work wonders. Anywhere there is a cos- are coming up to meet trends every day. 4) (4.99): Remember the Price metics counter, I am always keeping an It isn’t unusual these days to see students is Right Game, Plinko? This game has a eye out for something new in the mascara with iPod touches or iPhones, tapping similar setup, but the object of the game world. Recently, what caught my eye was away at their touch screens with glee. is to rid the screen of all the orange pegs. the new wave in eye make; the vibrating your hand. I purchase the non-waterproof I, being the good geek that I am, am the Though simplistic, it’s challenging higher or oscillating mascaras. Even at double in blackest black. proud owner of a 3GS phone myself, and I levels are entertaining for hours on end. the average price you’d pay for drugstore I was looking forward to faking long gor- have to tell you, I spend more time playing Are you a fan? This brand mascaras, and despite my weary geous lashes with the help of Maybelline. game has a downloadable plug-in for that feelings, everything I read about the prod- I couldn’t wait to try it, but I was afraid of as well. uct was just begging me to try it. buyer’s remorse. 5) Fluent news (free): I am a journalist at The moment had arrived. I peeled back heart, but fluent news is the perfect solu- "Vibrating mascara works the cardboard and removed my new beau- tion for any student who needs to be up to ty tool from its plastic cocoon, peeled off date in the media. It pulls the big news sto- wonders." the tab over the button that triggered the ries from major media and then gives a list motor, and unscrewed the cap. The child on all the sources reporting on them. This I read about the Lancome Oscillation in me immediately started to play with it, is a researcher’s best friend as fluent news mascara priced at $34 and the Maybelline pressing the button over and over again helps get together the story and fast. version for $12. It has been my experience and watching the brush vibrate. Once I got 6) Texas Hold’em (4.99): For the poker play- that department store brands (Lancome) over the fascination with the vibrations, I er or the pseudo-gambler, Texas Hold’em and drugstore brands (Maybelline) have washed my face and applied the mascara. is the game to play. The virtual characters little-to-no difference. Therefore, my reces- I used about six or seven coats, looked in are so realistic that they actually have tells sion affected pockets decided on the drug- the mirror and was amazed. My once tiny so you can figure out when they are lying. store brand, which was still a little over my almost invisible lashes were now full, long 7) Around me (free): A popular app, Around eye makeup budget. I purchased Maybel- and luxurious. Me is a locator that can tell you where to line’s Pulse Perfection by Define-A-Lash I texted friends and raved about it. That go when you’re unsure of your surround- Vibrating Mascara for $12 at Wal-Mart. It evening I went out with my sisters, and ings. You pop in your location, and Around has a built in motor at the top of the brush before I mentioned it, they complimented Me lists restaurants, coffee shops, movie cap that is activated by pressing a small my eyes. The one tube lasted me about theaters, gas stations, and many other op- button. The elastomer brush vibrates two months before the motor stopped tions in your general vicinity. 7,000 times per stroke, which promises to working. It worked great from begin- Texax hold-em up. 8) Paper Toss (free, or .99 for ad-free): Imag- elongate and separate even more than the ning to end. I would absolutely recom- ine sitting in your office, throwing paper average mascara due to the speed of the vi- mend this product to anyone. From pros with my phone than I spend even at my from your desk to the trash can because brations and combined with the stroke of to newbie’s, this is high quality make-up. own traditional computer. The App store you’re that bored. Sounds plain, but Paper has become my best friend by giving me Toss is the virtual embodiment of that options for a million and one new things and makes tossing trash enjoyable. Using my phone can do. Here are my top 10 apps an office fan and giving the wind speed, and games for the iPhone or iPod touch: it’s the player’s responsibility to figure out Gaming on a College Budget the right angle to throw the paper into 1) TuneWiki (free): There is nothing like be- the garbage. The score builds as you get Big Entertainment for a Small Price ing at a party and wanting to karaoke, but the paper in consecutively, but when you not knowing the words. TuneWiki pulls miss, it’s back to zero. the song that you are playing on your iPod 9) Bump (free): Bump is the perfect way By Eric Albuen ful information about where gamers can or iPhone, and sends you back the words to share your pictures and contacts even find the best deals available throughout in old fashioned Karaoke machine style. without picture messaging. Just attach Let’s face it—we’re all cheap college stu- the United States. Every week they give Now, you can’t pull the “I don’t know the the file you wish to send and gently bump dents and several of us are gamers. The information about the best weekly deals words” excuse not to sing. the other person’s phone or ipod to send recent rush of buying books for classes available at stores such as Target, Best Buy 2) Monopoly Here and Now (4.99): This entic- the file. The information “jumps” from ing classic gives you all the style of the old one device to the other. family favorite, with the options of the 10) Mancala (free or 1.99 for ad-free): This modern day, without the clean-up. It’s the marbled classic is still fun and this is com- perfect boredom stopper and a great way ing from a college student. The point of to show off the graphics on your handheld the game is to get more beads into your device—to roll the , Simply shake your home space in order to win. You can play phone or player and the pieces move ani- against the computer, over aim, or even matedly on the board. with your friends over wi-fi. Mancala even 3) MLB At Bat (9.99/season): The base- keeps score, telling you where you rank ac- ball fans life is complete with this app. cording to your wins and losses. The tech- It brings statistics, streaming live radio nology of the game adds a new dynamic to feeds from both team’s local affiliates, and the exhilaration of a childhood favorite.

leaves little in our pockets to purchase and Toys R Us. A considerably good deal There are alternative options to buying Whether we’re aware of it, there are other new and amazing games just released by their standards might be a huge price games. Movies and games are now becom- gamers on campus as well. With the con- on the market, may it be : The drop on a popular game or getting a gift ing downloadable. Websites like GameFly struction of the new game room, it makes Beatles, Halo O.D.S.T or even Batman: card with the purchase of a new game. provide gamers with a service similar to it possible to interact with other gamers. Arkham Asylum. After you’re done with the class, the Netflix. Rent a game for as long as you You can make new friends as well as being So, how do we play these new releases books become kind of useless and just like and pay a monthly fee for the service. able to trade with each other. Not only will and still have money in our pockets to take up space on your shelf. The same can It’s useful for those who are looking into a student save money on buying games, eat at the University Center? The answer be said for games that you have previous- saving money for other things. Starting at it’s totally free! There’s nothing better is to think of buying video games as buy- ly beaten. What good is an old or beaten $15.95 per month, the service will allow than something that’s free, right? ing books. While buying them brand new game on your shelf? Places like Game Stop you to rent one game until you’re done When it comes down to it, all work and is expensive, there are many other places accept trade-ins for store credits all the with it. When you look at how much it no play make people go crazy. Video games you can go to find the same exact item for time that can be used to your advantage costs to rent the game for an unlimited can be used to help relieve stress as well even less than what the original price is. to purchase new games. With most new amount of time in comparison to how as keep yourself and others entertained. While there might be a bunch of Game releases, you can get an additional 25% much a new game costs today, the savings No one likes going crazy over the price of Stop stores in our area, sometimes look- toward buying that particular game. It’s a are pretty significant. books. As college students with limited ing online is a better option. Websites nice little bonus for gamers looking to get But those are only a few available op- funds, you shouldn’t have to go crazy over like CheapAssGamer.com provides use- a little more money back. tions. Remember, we’re on campus. the price of quality entertainment either. The Tower | September, 2009 7 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Music Department Welcomes the New Enlow Hall Concert Artists Program Finds a New Home

By Raquel Fernandes interpreter of the repertoire, the Great Concert Artists. Additionally, the hall is Frankel, violin and viola; Susannah Chap- American Songbook, will commemorate equipped with a fully-functional digital man, cello; Anthony Scelba, double bass; It’s been an 11-year process for the the grand opening of the new Enlow Re- audio recording studio. The newly-finished Allison, Brewster Franzetti, piano; Alex- Concert Artists of Kean University, but cital Hall. hall was built as an outgrowth of the exist- ander Fiterstein, clarinet, and Katherine the long wait will end on a high note Recognized for his commitment to cele- ing hall at Kean’s East Campus building. Harris, soprano. Oct. 2 when the renowned interpreter of brating and preserving American popular Following the opening performance, While maintaining successful careers as the Great American Songbook—Michael song, Feinstein has played Carnegie Hall, Kean’s Concert Artists will grace the new professional performers, the Concert Art- Feinstein—will open the college’s new ists present solo, chamber music and jazz recital hall. “It is the first world-class recitals at Kean, bringing world-renowned The Kean Concert Artists will launch its performing musicians onto the faculty of 2009-2010 series at a 332-seat, state-of- performance space that Department of Music. The faculty teaches the-art musical facility on the East Cam- private, weekly studio lessons to Kean stu- pus named the Gene and Shelly Enlow Kean has ever had.” dents. Recital Hall. Gene Enlow is chairman of “The Concert Artists couldn’t be more Kean’s Board of Trustees. Buckingham Palace and the White House. pleased, not because the hall will make us “We have waited a long time for Enlow This year, he was nominated for his fifth sound so much better, which it will, but Hall,” said Dr. Anthony Scelba, director of Grammy Award for his new album, The Si- Kean's new recital venue, Enlow Hall. because our audience will finally have the the Concert Artist program and chair of natra Project. A PBS series is also in the full experience of great music in a great the music department at Kean University. works for 2010 called “Michael Feinstein: hall with a concert comprising works place,” said Dr. Scelba. “It is the first world-class performance Man on a Mission.” by Brahms, Liszt, Rossini, Gounod and For more information about the Con- space that Kean University has ever had.” Enlow Hall houses a brand-new Stein- Saint-Saëns, performed by Concert Art- cert Artists and a full calendar of perfor- On Oct. 2 at 8 p.m., a benefit perfor- way Grand Piano and a Fazioli F-308 ists Brennan Sweet, violin; Victoria Stew- mances, visit their website at www.kean- mance by Feinstein, a pianist, singer and Grand Piano built especially for the Kean art, violin; Brett Deubner, viola; Joanna concertartists.com.

Inglourious Basterds GET PUBLISHED JOIN THE TOWER How Far Will You Go for Revenge?

By Kelly Pinnisi officer, and a German double agent/ac- Meetings Mondays tress named Bridget von Hammersmark, @ 3:30 p.m. They’re glorious (ok, they’re inglouri- played by Diane Kruger (Troy, Wicker ous!) and they are out for vengeance. For Park). Unfortunately, Landa finds Bridget CAS 413 anyone who loves a move with drama, and strangles her to death, then proceeds revenge and action all packed in one, to capture Aldo. After he seizes Aldo, Inglourious Basterds is the perfect movie Landa reveals that he was planning to kill for you. Hitler, and reaches Aldo’s commanding Directed and written by well-known officer demanding money and safety. The screenwriter, producer, cinematogra- pher and actor Quentin Tarantino, the movie portrays the strive for revenge. EMPOWERED The Basterds, the main characters, are a group of Jewish-Americans who want re- NJCU has everything you venge on Hitler and the Nazis. Actor Brad need to succeed, personally Pitt (Legends of the Fall, The Curious Case INSTANT and professionally, in the of Benjamin Button) plays the leader of the global economy. Basterds, Aldo Raine, a U.S. second lieu- tenant in the First Special Service. French DECISION actress Melanie Laurent plays Shoshanna, who seeks revenge on the Nazis because of the brutal murder of her family by Colonel Hans Landa, notorious in history as the DAYS “Jew Hunter,” after he suspects her father Attend and empower yourself with an of hiding Jews. Shoshanna, the only sur- answer before you leave campus and vivor of her family, miraculously escapes we’ll waive your $35 application fee! by running away. Four years later, Shoshanna lives in Paris under the identity of Emmanuelle TRANSFER TUESDAYS Mimieux and becomes the owner of a cin- October 13 • November 10 • December 8 ema. Frederick Zoller, a greedy actor who 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. is getting a film in honor of his heroism of Transfer Students must bring to the Of ce killing Americans, chooses her cinema to rest of the movie depicts the two groups’ of Undergraduate Admissions (Hepburn Hall, exhibit his film. Ironically, he has a crush respective struggles with their methods Room 207): Of cial transcripts from all colleges on Shoshanna, who in turn rejects his af- of retribution. attended, completed application and an essay. fections. He convinces the Goebbels to With its awesome cast, intense story All transfer students must have earned a minimum of 12 college credits with a minimum premier his movie at Shoshanna’s cinema line and surprise ending (which you’ll have grade point average of 2.0. giving her the perfect opportunity to seek to see for yourself), Inglourious Basterds is revenge. a great way for a Kean student to start off Meanwhile, the Basterds receive help the fall semester. EmpoweredU.NJCU. from Lt. Archie Hicox, a dispatch British

TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT, POWER TO THE TOWER PLEASE CALL 866.586.7823 edu OR E-MAIL [email protected] 2039 KENNEDY BOULEVARD JERSEY CITY, NJ 07305-1597

33887 The Tower 5x7.5_bw.indd 1 9/4/09 11:00:46 AM

10 September, 2009 | The Tower

EDITORIAL The Tower Department of Communication SCHOOL BEGINS AGAIN Kean University Center for Academic Success 1000 Morris Avenue Union, NJ 07083 Telephone: (908) 737-0468 As I finished my junior year of college last May, I looked Fax: (908) 737-0465 Email: [email protected] forward to a nice summer. Yet, I forgot how quickly time www.kean.edu/~thetower flies by. Now, it’s September and I’m beginning my senior year. Interesting how people always say that time flies, but The Tower is an independent, laboratory newspaper of no one feels it until it happens. Kean University’s print journalism option in the commu- nication major program. It is published monthly through I remember as a senior in high school I looked forward the regular academic year and supported by advertising and the Department of Communication. The Tower is not to graduating and beginning college. Now, I’m looking for- responsible for claims made by its advertisers. The Tower ward to graduating with a BA in Communication. is a public forum and is free from censorship and advance approval of content by the university administration. The But, until I graduate in May of 2010, one great way to look Tower staff is responsible for its content. forward to school is living in the new Upper-Classmen Res- Editor-in-Chief Jay Hicks ident Halls. I admit, I was hesitant if the new resident halls Jillian Johnson Lisa Martinez Ryan Mattesky would be completed this September, but I will not pause to Deputy Editor Lillie Morales-Torres Raquel Fernandes Megan Muller write that they look fabulous. I feel as if I am living in my Kelly Pennisi News Editor Dawn Phillips own apartment away from college. All I can add is that my Joseph Tingle Carlos Reynosa Jessie Rivera complaints are limited. Sports Editor Ana Maria Silverman While I enjoy living in the new resident hall, I must Nicole Von Gonten Emerald Vaughn Arts and Entertainment Business Manager remember that school is back in session. I wish everyone Editor Eileen Ruf Rachel Rothspan the best of luck beginning the Fall 2009 semester. As usu- Faculty Adviser Staff Pat Winters Lauro al, attend class and study hard, but don’t forget to have Eric Albuen John Cherry Designer some fun. Andrew Czirjak Stephanie Skirvin Charley Falkenburg

Jillian Johnson Opinion pieces and letters to the editor Editor-in-Chief The Tower welcomes guest columns and letters to the editor from any source. Such material should be submitted to [email protected] or left at The Tower’s offices. To verify sources of written material, submissions must include the writer’s name and contact information. Students should include their class (sophomore, graduate, etc.) and major. Faculty and staff should include campus title or position. On request, names may be withheld from publication if The Tower staff determines there is a legitimate reason to do so, but no anonymous letters will be accepted for publication. The Tower reserves the right to edit, and refuse publication of any submission.

Display and classified advertising

Deadline for space reservations for display advertising is two weeks before the publication date. Ads submitted after that may be used on a space-available basis. All ads are run-of-the-paper unless an extra fee is collected for a paid position. Deadline for art work and copy is one week before the publication date. Classified advertising can be submitted up to the Thursday before publication as long as the payment is made at the same time. Call (908) 737-0468 or email [email protected] for a rate card.

Tower publication schedule

FALL: Sept. 23, Oct. 21, Nov. 18, Dec. 16.

LIFE @ WORK QUALITY FOOD, FAST AND FRIENDLY

By jillian johnson

When the last day of finals ended in May, I was ready to head home with my bags I was excited. The title looked good on a job resume, gave me a higher standing at the packed. Classes were over. I was excited to sleep in my own bed at home, have my room restaurant and meant more money. But it wasn’t an easy summer. Most people to myself and not awaken to the annoying sound of an alarm clock. think working at a fast food restaurant is no big deal, but they have no idea But I forgot about work. how frustrating it can be. For the past two years, I have worked at an Arby’s Restaurant in South First, the meaning behind the term, “fast food” is that it’s the job of the Jersey, ultimately becoming a shift-manager. My job responsibilities in- store to hand customers their food as quickly as possible. Hence, the word cluded cash skimming of registers, which is when I count the amount of “fast.” In drive-thru, Arby’s restaurants are to distribute food to the cus- money in drawers and take out money if there is more than a certain amount tomers within a minute and fifty seconds. Time is tracked by monitors (this helps reduce money shortages or overloads at the end of the day, store and higher standing workers, like general managers, look at the times to see closing organization, which is ensuring that employees clean and restock all which district or region in the area is getting food out the quickest. But, customers utensils and the store itself, and I fill out paperwork, and my main duty was to don’t make that easy on our part. ensure that employees completed their jobs. When given the title as a shift-manager, Here’s a typical scenario: A car pulls up to the drive-thru (Continued on page 11) The Tower | S eptember, 2009 11 HEALTH & FITNESS Flu Alert: Do I have Swine Flu?

Dr. Josh Palgi and Dr. Jessica Adams if there is enough demand. Typically, fewer than 100 million Amer- Is it a cold or a flu? Is it a flu or the so- icans seek flu vaccine every year, and it called Swine Flu? is unclear whether swine flu—the 2009 It is important to know the difference. H1N1 strain—will prompt much more A cold is a milder respiratory illness than demand. the flu. While cold symptoms can make The new swine flu seems no more deadly you feel bad for a few days, flu symptoms than regular winter flu, which every year can last from a few days to weeks. kills 36,000 Americans and hospitalizes The flu is caused by a variety of influ- 200,000, but there is an important differ- enza viruses. The flu viruses enter the ence. This H1N1 strain sickens younger body through the mucous membranes of people more frequently than the people the nose, eyes, or mouth. Every time you over 65 who are the main victims of sea- touch your hand to one of these areas, you sonal flu. There is no indication the virus could be infecting yourself with a virus. will be more virulent than what we ex- Influenza (flu) is a viral infection. Peo- perienced in May and June, but we must ple often use the term “flu” to describe have contingency plans in case the virus any kind of mild illness, such as a cold or becomes more widespread or more severe a stomach virus, that has symptoms like in its symptoms. the flu, but the real flu is different. Flu President Obama said, “I don’t want symptoms are usually worse than a cold anybody to be alarmed, but I do want and last longer. The flu can also result in ple include fever, cough, sore throat, run- al swine flu epidemic has sickened more everyone to be prepared”. serious health problems such as pneumo- ny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, than 1 million Americans and killed about With the flu season rapidly approaching, nia (an inflammation illness of the lungs) chills and fatigue. Additional symptoms 600. It also spread around the world, in- Kean University is working closely with and even hospitalization. are diarrhea and vomiting. fecting tens of thousands and killing Union Township and the Union County The 2009 H1N1 (referred to as “swine What makes the 2009 H1N1 flu differ- nearly 2000. In June, the World Health Health Department to monitor flu condi- flu”) is a new influenza virus causing ill- ent? The flu we get each winter is based on Organization raised the pandemic alert tions and to develop steps to help prevent ness in people. This new virus was first the flu from the year before. That means level to Phase 6, indicating a global pan- the spread of influenza on campus. detected in the United States in April. most of us have already built up a partial demic. A pandemic is when a particular Because the situation is changing This virus spreads from person to person resistance to that strain of the illness. illness occurs over a wide geographic area, rapidly, it is important to check regularly probably in much the same way that regu- However, the 2009 H1N1 flu is new. Our affecting an exceptionally high proportion for changes in recommendations as they lar seasonal influenza viruses spread. It bodies don’t recognize it, so our immune of the population. become available. Online resources for was called “swine flu” originally because defenses are weaker. As a result, this flu In September, The New York Times daily guidance include the Centers for laboratory testing showed that genes in spreads faster than usual. Most U. S. cases reported that the Food and Drug Ad- Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the new viruses were similar to influenza of H1N1 swine flu have been in older chil- ministration had approved a new swine World Health Organization (WHO), and viruses that normally occur in pigs, or dren and young adults, but certain groups flu vaccine. The government is working Medscape’s H1N1 Influenza A (swine flu) swine, in North America. However, fur- are at particularly high risk of severe dis- to start mass vaccinations next month, Alert Center. ther study has shown that this new virus ease if they get flu such as pregnant wom- and will be available at up to 90,000 sites is very different from what normally circu- en and people with chronic disease like including schools and clinics across the Dr. Palgi and Dr. Adams are professors in the lates in North American pigs. asthma, heart disease, or diabetes. country. The government has ordered Department of Physical Education, Recreation The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in peo- Since it first emerged in April, the glob- 195 million doses but may order more and Health.

TIPS FOR PREVENTING THE FLU QUALITY FOOD (Continued from page 10) • Wash your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or speaker. An employee says, “Hi, may I take your order please?” and the customer asks sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are effective. just for a moment to look at the menu board. After about a minute passes by, the em- ployee asks if the customer is ready to order and the customer says no. In some cases, • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If the customer will say, “There’s no one behind me.” Although that may hold true, the you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not customer doesn’t realize that once his or her car comes to the speaker, time is clicking. into your hands. Customers- if you’re not sure what you want or are not familiar with the menu, then come inside. Besides, we aren’t a five star restaurant with fancy food. We’ve basically • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as germs are spread this way. got roast beef, milkshakes and fries. Also, there is a reason why fast food restaurants have a speaker by the drive thru. So • Know the signs and symptoms of the flu. Look for possible signs of fever: many times cars pull up to the speaker, and as an employee asks, “Hi, may I take you if the person feels very warm, has a flushed appearance, or is sweating order please?” the driver immediately pulls up to the window. This instance then causes or shivering. A fever is a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 time problems as another car pulls to the speaker, places an order and then pulls up to degrees Celsius. the window as the first car places an order at the window. Who knew placing an order could be so difficult. • Stay home if you have flu or flu-like illness and remain home for at least 24 Oh, and how nice of customers to drive up to the drive thru and in a split second yell hours after you no longer have fever (achieved without the use of fever- at the speaker, “HELLO?” Drive thru workers are required to wear a head set and two reducing remedies such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.) other people are assigned a headset as a back-up. How about you just give me a second to say, “Hi, may I take your order please?” What’s even better is when it’s late at night • Talk with your health care providers about whether you should be vac- and a car comes by drive thru. We say, “Hi, may I take your order please?” and they re- cinated for seasonal flu.Also, if you are at higher risk for flu complications spond, “Are you still open?” Must we respond to that question? from 2009 H1N1 flu, you should consider getting the H1N1 vaccine Interesting how customers complain that workers take too long to make food, but when it becomes available. For more information about priority groups for vaccination, visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/acip.htm. "Arby’s restaurants are to distribute food to the customers within a minute and fifty seconds" Kean University Health Services will have the seasonal don’t consider they just purchased $40 worth of food in one order and expect it to be influenza vaccine available on Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. to 6 done in two minutes. When a crew is making five sandwiches, five large fries, milk- p.m., in the University Center, Room 226B. shakes, mozzarella sticks, potato bites and who knows what else, there’s a lot of run- ning around to ensure that the bread is toasted, the mozzarella sticks are cooked and the milkshake mix isn’t spilling down the sides of the cups. Sorry, humans only have Availability of the H1N1 vaccine is expected in mid-October. two hands, two legs and 10 fingers. Oh, and in regards to sanitary conditions, please, customers, stop handing employ- For more information, please contact Health Services at 908- ees trash to throw away. Talk about spreading germs? Once, after I handed a lady her 737-4880 or visit www.kean.edu/~health. food, she handed me an Arby’s bag filled with trash, and admitted that it was left in her car from the day before. I spent five minutes washing my hands after that one. 12 September, 2009 | The Tower SPORTS Cougars Lose Close One 7-5, But Still Walk Away Big Winners

By Andrew Czirjak Why not though? Ioviero and the Cougars ahead in the count and not fall behind. to be honored and recognized. But, he excelled under pressure in 2007 winning Ioviero’s plan also extends his defensive also said his team and himself are focus- Everyday there it is smack in your face; the College World Series, and this year, he strategy to the field. Sounds easy? Not so. ing on the season. Moceri knows that it pressure. Sure, some of us crumble under feels his team is even better. It takes practice and discipline to achieve takes plenty of hard work to go beyond pressure’s constant burden, while others In order to get to that point Ioviero has such goals. Defense, practice and disci- last year’s success. He feels the rest of the seem to thrive and excel under it. Unfor- a plan. For his last 12 years at Kean Uni- pline are just the foundations to a winning squad is working just as hard if not harder tunately and yet expected, athletes have versity, Ioviero has used the same process team. Staying on course and tweaking the than last year. to rise above and conquer pressure. to help the Cougars achieve their goals. plan here and there is what Ioviero plans “We had a good year,” said Moceri. “But Last year, during the post season, the Yet, his plan is not as convoluted as one to add once the season starts. And with we’re going to try to do better this year.” Kean Cougars men’s baseball team was on might think. The genius of his plan lies in over 30 wins in the last three seasons, Io- That’s because the Cougars were plagued the precipice of victory, but ultimately fell its simplicity. viero’s plan seems to be a good one. with injuries last season and forced to rely in a close game, 7-5, to Chapman Univer- “We play an unorthodox style here, and its freshmen players to step up and fill sity in the College World Series. “It takes a lot of good while other teams are focusing on offense in the gaps that were left, most notable, However, it wasn’t the pressure of the and hitting, we concentrate on defense,” Dylan Laguna. Last season, Laguna re- moment that kept them from winning, pressure for a team to said Ioviero. ceived ECAC Division III and NJAC Rookie but rather it was ‘good pressure’ that Ioviero’s confidence for the Cougars of the Year honors. took the Cougars to the NCAA’s in the succeed.” must be high since they swept the ECAC’s. Another notable new comer is D.J first place. Five members of the squad (including Breckenridge, currently a sophomore at “It takes a lot of good pressure for a “It’s a process [that is] one step at a Bartlinski) earned major accolades. For- Kean. Breckenridge reflected back on last team to succeed,” said Neil Ioviero, Head time,” said Ioviero. mer Cougar Brandon Aich and sopho- season and gave some insight on personal Coach of the Kean Men’s baseball team. Ioviero starts preparing his pitchers by more (then freshman) Dylan Laguna were goals he has coming into this new year. And Ioviero was right. It was funda- reinforcing defense. Ioviero can provide awarded second-team honors while fresh- “Work harder, compete harder,” said mental ‘good pressure’ that helped them evidence for his strategy, with proof in man (now sophomore) Ryan Zamorsky Breckenridge. “This year the goal is to win win the NJAC Regular Season Champion- star pitcher senior Joe Bartlinski. Bart- earned a third-team nod. However, the the CWS.” ship and the NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional linski, a junior at Kean last season was in- night belonged to senior, (then junior) Still, as the need for greater success Championship for a third consecutive strumental in getting the Cougars to the Mike Moceri as he and Bartlinski were surmounts and continues to grow, the season. More impressively, the Cougars CWS. In fact, Bartlinski nabbed the NJAC tabbed with first-team honors. Cougars will need that “good pres- repeated their 2008 success with another Pitcher of the Year for a second consecu- Last season, Mike Moceri, currently sure” that Coach Ioviero insists makes a 39-11 record in 2009. tive season. a junior at Kean, was tabbed as ABCA / winning team. Under his guidance, Ioviero has five “[The award] was a total surprise. There Rawlings First Team All-American, mak- As for the word pressure, the Cougars goals he wants his team to achieve this are a lot of good pitchers out there,” said ing him only the fourth first teamer in the don’t seem to have that word in their vo- season, beginning with winning over 30 Bartlinski. programs history. He also led the squad cabulary. That’s what makes the Cougars games during the regular season. Followed However, Bartlinski was not dwelling with an impressive .436 batting average different from other college teams; their by winning the regular season, get to the on his past accomplishments; instead the and set records with 82 hits, 22 doubles uncanny ability to live in the moment and conference, take regional’s, and win the pitcher was strictly focused on the here and 57 RBI. not get ahead of themselves. Best of luck College World Series. Talk about pressure. and now. His main goal this year is to stay Moceri said that it always feels good this season, Cougars! The Tower | S eptember, 2009 13 SPORTS Player Profile: Darryl Jackson

GO COUGARS!! By Ryan Mattesky Jets, Panthers, to name a few, have come to scout him. Standing in at 6’2” and weighing in at Jackson has been a part of the Kean visit: 330 pounds, senior defensive lineman community his entire college career. He Darryl Jackson is ready to add a lot of ex- will be graduating with a degree in com- citement to the Kean University Football munity recreation. With this being Jack- http://www. Team. As a third-year returning starter, son’s final season in college football, he re- Darryl is a leader for the defense and the flected and said that his favorite memories keanathletics. football team. Last year he had 37 total here at Kean are when the team defeated Rowan and Montclair State University com/landing/ during Homecoming. “he's a dominant force.” His plans after football are to coach or index go into the recreation field. Hopefully, tackles and two sacks, as well as three though, we will be seeing him in the NFL fumble recoveries. This year Darryl should before that happens. With the 2009 foot- for more on be even more productive. ball season just beginning, there is a lot “He is a force people have to account for of promise for this year’s Kean University Kean athletics in our defense,” said head coach Dan Gar- Football team and when asked what his ret. “He is a dominant force.” predictions for the season were going to And it is because of this force that NFL be, he answered with only one powerful teams such as the Texans, Browns, 49’ers, and confident word: “Undefeated.” Senior defensive lineman, Darryl Jackson.

The News, the Environment and Politics equal Issues ‘09

Kean University is featuring a lecture series on 9 Billion People + 1 Planet = ? Lender of the Hartford Courant; Dan Barry of In January, the series continues with: diverse topics this fall, ranging from the transfor- Wednesday, October 7, at 12:30 p.m. in The New York Times; and FranWood of The Star- Combating Hatred: Third Annual Interna- mation of the news industry to how to save our Wilkins Theatre, featuring prize-winning journal- Ledger. tional Conference on Human Rights planet. The series is open to the public. Following ist and author, Andrew Revkin. An environmental Friday, January 29, 2010 in Wilkins Theatre, is a partial list: reporter for The New York Times, Revkin covers Variety is the Solution: A Look at How Lit- featuring keynote speaker Morris Dees, founder topics ranging from the assault on the Amazon erature Brings Us All Together in the World and chief trial counsel for the Southern Pov- The Transformation of News to the Asian tsunami, from the troubled relation- Monday, November 16, at 11 a.m. in Wilkins erty Law Center in Montgomery, Alabama. The Thursday, October 1, at 12:30 p.m. in the ship of science and politics to climate change at Theatre, featuringaward-winning poet, writer and conference, sponsored by the Human Rights In- Little Theatre, featuring online editors Bridget the North Pole. He is an expert on environmental educator Naomi Shihab Nye. An advocate for stitute, will bring together an international panel Wentworth and Matt Dowling of nj.com; Tina Kel- issues and has written numerous books on the shared humanity, Nye has spent 35 years trav- of experts. ley, reporter and blogger for The New York Times; Amazon, Arctic and global warming. eling the world leading writing workshops and and political editor Josh Benson of the New York inspiring students through her work. She is an Observer. Newspapers, Then and Now expert on multiculturalism and author/editor of Thursday, October 22, at 12:30 p.m. in the Little more than 25 volumes, includingseven prize-win- Theatre, featuring award-winning journalists Jon ning poetry anthologies for young readers.

NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY

Celebrating 50 years WILL of Graduate Education EXCEED MY HIGHEST GOALS GRADUATE STUDIES OPEN HOUSE Tuesday, October 6 • 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Free parking with validation. Education • Art • Business Counseling • Criminal Justice Health Sciences • Music Psychology • Security Studies

EmpoweredU.NJCU.edu

TO RSVP CALL (866) 586-7823 OR E-MAIL [email protected] 2039 KENNEDY BOULEVARD JERSEY CITY, NJ 07305-1597 14 September, 2009 | The Tower SPORTS Life as a Freshman Athlete

By Nicole VonGonten MS: The biggest difference so far is the competitiveness and attitude. Every girl Many people do not often realize the types on that field wants to win and plays with of training and practice that student athletes everything they have. Everything you are put into making their college team. This pres- told to do must be done and done at an ac- sure is never more apparent than when a ceptable time. Nothing can be done with freshman is trying out for a college team for little effort. It is played at a higher level the first time. Marie Silva, of the Lady Cou- so everyone expects you to keep up with gars soccer team, gives an insight as to what the group. it is like to compete for a spot. TOWER: How do you think you can help the TOWER: How long have you been playing team this year? soccer, and did you play on travel teams MS: I think I can help the team by being and in leagues? a team player and bringing a positive at- MS: I have been playing soccer for 14 years. titude on and off the field. I played on many traveling teams such as GO COUGARS!! Thistle FC, Den of Lions, PDA and TSF. TOWER: What do you hope to gain out of TOWER: What was the hardest part about Marie Silva of the Lady Cougars soccer team. your first season on the team? trying out for the team? (i.e., early prac- MS: I hope to gain a better understanding tices, running....) of the game and be the best player I can MS: The toughest part had to be all the “Every girl on that field be. I want to be a great support and friend early fitness. I had to suck it up and push wants to win and plays to my teammates. through until my body adapted to it. with everything they have.” TOWER: What advice would you give to a TOWER: What helps you get through the younger friend that said they wanted to long, tough practices? MS: No, things have been a lot easier than try out for a sports team in college? MS: The support from my teammates keeps I thought they would have been because I MS: Go for it and never give up. It is the me focused and it helps me get past the have one of my closest friends heren_09_0057_nj003.indd with best experience_r02 ever. You meet the nic- tough times and to never give up. me. I now also have 24 new teammates est people who will be there for you who help make every step a lot easier. throughout your years in college and TOWER: Have any unexpected things hap- will always be there for you. It’s going pened since trying out and making the TOWER: What has been the biggest differ- to be tough at first, but mentally you team? Have things been easier or harder ence so far playing in college, compared to just need to tell yourself you can do it. then you thought? high school or travel teams?

Women's Soccer Looks to 2009 Season

By Jessie Rivera 120s for fitness, one-on-one and two-on- two games to finish at goal and nine-on- While most spend their summer relax- nine games for defending. ing by the pool or going on a site seeing Although the team came short on their vacation, there’s a select few scattered opener game against Manhattanville Col- DID THE HOMEWORK SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO. around NJ that are training to become lege, 2-1, things picked up at the two day the next Women’s Kean Soccer players. annual Cougar Classic. The Lady Cougars defeated St. Josephs College, 4-0, as fresh- man Carly Seidel debuted in her first game with a goal while veteran Randi Vizoco, a $129 99 junior, finished the game with a hat trick Boost Motorola (three goals). On the final day of the Cou- Clutch™ i465 $50/mo. unlimited SAVE $15 gar Classic, Oneonta State could not keep nationwide talk, text, $ 99 their 1-0 lead against the Cougars and, in Web and walkie-talkie.▼ 64 the 50th minute, sophomore Danielle Es- 17-4429 Expandable 4GB Sansa® Fuze posito scored the tying goal. • FM tuner With the season just beginning, Do- $ 99 • Slot for microSD herty sees a growth in his team and a 24 card 8GB USB 42-399 Reg. 79.99. leadership that could motivate the play- Flash Drive ers when competing against nationally 25-1110 ranked teams. The Cougars put that to the test when they arrived at Virginia on Coach Brian Doherty. Sept. 11 to play in the Captains Classic $ 99 $ 99 against host, Christopher Newport Uni- 29 SAVE $10 34 At the end of August, the girls began to versity and the #12 team in the country, Plantronics E230 AUVIO™ In-Ear Headset Bluetooth® Headset with Microphone move into their dorms and learned the Virginia Wesleyan College on Sept. 12. It 17-3662 Reg. 39.99. 33-267 names of their competitors and future was an intense first half as KU and CNU teammates. After a week of intense train- battled to keep a lead, but both came short Offers good through 9/30/09. Availability may vary by store. See store for details. ing, the scattered 40 became the next 28 after a double overtime game ended in a ▼Monthly Unlimited Plan: Includes domestic voice calling, walkie-talkie services, Web, text messages, picture and MMS/Audio messages. Additional Kean Cougars. 2-2 tie. The Lady Cougars passed the test charges apply for international services/messages. Other restrictions apply. See in-store materials or boostmobile.com for details. ©2009 Boost Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved. Boost, Boost Mobile and the Logo are trademarks of Boost. MOTOROLA and the Stylized M are registered “I have a better understanding of the when they defeated VWC, twelfth in the trademarks of Motorola, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. game of soccer, I am a better motivator, country, in a double overtime. Sophomore [and] I can separate things that happen Danielle Esposito scored the first goal and VISIT A RADIOSHACK STORE NEAR YOUR CAMPUS. off the field from things that happen on Freshman Carly Seidel finished the game Lyons Plaza the field. When I was younger, if I had a with the two winning goals. 467 Lyons Avenue 304 Main Street bad day before practice, I brought that to “I would tell them that I recruited Newark Orange the field with me, [but] I don’t do that any- each of them here because I see some- Ph: 973-923-9380 Ph: 973-674-0247 more,” said Coach Brian Doherty. thing special in them and that I wouldn’t Beginning his eleventh season, Do- want to go into any game with anyone n_09_0057_nj003.indd 1 9/10/09 3:06:09 PM herty prepared his team by holding prac- else if I had the choice because I know Placed Graphics Inks tices that consisted of keep away drills Filename Trim lg_plantronics_blk_01.eps those special qualities that I see in eachn_09_0057_nj003.indd 5 in x 7 in lg_bluetooth_blk_01.eps Cyan lg_sandisk_blk_01.eps Print Time Bleed GO COUGARS!!lg_auvio-tagline_blk_01.eps Magenta that would improve their possession. For of them will rise to the occasion 9-10-2009 ev- 3:06 PM 5.25 in x 7.25 in lg_sansa-inline_blk_01.eps ls_09-0057cover-newspr_bw_01.eps 1067 Yellow ppi Gray example, the team trained by practicing ery time they need to,” Last said Modifi Doherty. ed PDF Scale lg_boostmobile_blk_01.eps Black 9-10-2009 3:05 PM 100% lg_rsinline_wht_01.eps lg_the-shack-sm_richblk_03.eps lg_the-shack-sm_4c_03.eps

User/Prev. User Deryle Williams / Wendy White SETUP Page Scale 1 in = 1 in FILE INFO Workstation RSPMT-MAC-0019 Page Count 1 PDF Creation DALiM_INPUT / CS3 Postscript Level 3 The Tower | S eptember, 2009 15 SPORTS Men's Soccer to Improve Field Hockey Picks Up Upon Last Season Where They Left Off

By Nicole VonGonten attitude as well as a great work ethic,” Ochrimenko said. Each new year brings hope and promise The two seniors returning this sea- for many sport teams. They hope to im- son, Pedro Zamora and Rob Sopko, have prove upon what happened the season be- been providing a positive attitude for the fore and grow as a team. This speaks true younger players to follow. for the Kean Men’s Soccer team. “Zamora and Sopko give you 100% With a 7-12-1 finish last season, going with their work with the team and for the 2-7 against NJAC teams, the Cougars put team.” Ochrimenko said of the seniors. in their work this offseason to make sure Some Cougars did receive off the field this year is better than last. No one knows acknowledgements for their 2008 season better than head coach Tony Ochrimenko with goalie Alfredo Oquendo headlining on how to get a team back on the winning by being named a NJAC Second-Team track. Ochrimenko has been coaching the All Star. Mark Wallis and Andres Ber- Cougars since 1976. This season Ochri- riel were named to the NJAC Honorable menko saw the greatest improvement in Mention squad. his team from January through May with Like any coach, Ochrimenko expects to their offseason workouts. The team began win every year, and he looks for big things to rebuild a positive self-image of them- to come his team’s way this season. “The selves and solid work ethics. strength of this team is their individual While most teams’ strongest points are and collective work ethic and commit- visible on the field, it is the things that go ment to excellence on a daily basis.” The Lady Cougars in action against Castleton. on in the locker room that go unnoticed With the season under way, the Cougars sometimes. Ochrimenko believes that hope to make a splash in the NJAC and try By Nicole VonGonten against FDU College at Florham, 5-1, and success comes with good camaraderie and to make it all the way to the NCAA Cham- Susquehanna University, 3-0. sportsmanship, plus a solid attitude to pionship. As of September 12th, Kean’s re- With a fantastic ending to the 2008 The Lady Cougars looked to remain un- work hard at all position. cord stood at 3-1-1 with big games against season, winning the ECAC championship, defeated when they traveled to face Ste- The Cougars are coming into the season conference foes looming, such as The Col- the Lady Cougars look to repeat their suc- vens Institute of Technology on Septem- with a roster full of freshmen and sopho- lege of New Jersey, Montclair State and cess in the 2009 season. ber 12th. Kean faced its first challenge of mores. The head coach does not see that as William Paterson. The Lady Cougars are primed for a simi- the season in Stevens. The teams went into an obstacle for the team, though. With a good work ethic and commitment, lar outcome to their 17-5 record last sea- half time with zeros on the board. How- “The newcomers to the team give us the Cougars are primed for a winning season. son and may even surpass that this sea- ever, the Lady Ducks prevailed in the end a lot of energy and a most positive son. In their first 5 games of the season, with Kean being given eight penalty cards, Kean posted three shutout victories and including two red cards. Stevens went on fell short of a win once. to take advantage of Kean’s misfortunes In their first game against Castleton and defeated Kean, 3-0, handing the Lady State College, Brittany Gibbs and Lauren Cougars their first loss of the season. Kusik led the way with two goals apiece. Goalie Lauren Dobbs had a solid game making three saves. With the combina- tion of defense and offense, the Lady Cou- gars cruised to a 6-0 victory. Like the first game, the Cougars took the quick lead against Vassar College on September 5th. Gibbs led the team in scoring with 4 goals. Kean went on to win by a score of 5-0 for their second shutout. Kean continued their success with wins The Lady Cougars on the field. 16 September, 2009 | The Tower SPORTS NFL Predictions

POINT COUNTERPOINT By John Cherry By Jay Hicks

With the Mets reeling and the Yankees on cruise control, football could not I am sure whatever John has to say, some of the predictions I propose will have come any sooner. With the Jets and Giants having bitter sweet endings agree with his. However, I am also sure that most of my forecasts will disagree to both their seasons last year, they both look to redeem themselves for a long with his. That’s the fun part of this column! Otherwise, it’ll be boring and no- playoff run. body would want to read our predictions. The Giants are definitely looking better than the Jets to make that run. The First of all, kudos to the defending Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers NFC East is going to be a battle all year long, but it will come down to the same for their hard-fought, thrilling 13-10 overtime victory over the Tennessee Ti- two teams as it did last year in the Eagles and Giants. One will win the division tans. Wow! What a ferocious and nerve-wracking clash of two great teams! and one will make the wildcard. As the National Football League kicks off its 2009 season, there are many in- In the NFC North, only one team will make it and it doesn’t matter tangibles involved. For one thing, the Minnesota Vikings just brought in aging who the quarterback is because I could win nine games handing it off to quarterback Brett Favre that somehow complicates things. The obvious puzzle is Adrian Peterson. that he’s 41 years old. Why the heck would they bring in someone who’s at the The NFC South may very well be the end of his playing prime? They already have Tarvaris Jackson, a young man who most competitive in football with the already has playoff experience and who can be their main guy for a long time. Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Sounds to me like they don’t trust Jackson to carry the team load for them. and New Orleans Saints. Two of these Add the Indianapolis Colts into the mix. Suddenly, Head Coach Tony Dungy three will make the playoffs and one retired. Then the entire staff resigned. The Colts hired new coordinators to fill will be on the short end of the totem in the positions, but they’re wet behind the ears. Will their offensive and defen- sive strategies work? I guarantee you that they’re definitely not the same as last season! The Colts will not see another twelve-win campaign as they traditionally "The Giants are accomplished the past seven years, a NFL record. definitely looking Then watch the quarterback controversy unfold in Detroit. The Lions named Matt Staffod their starting quarterback. He’s a rookie who had done a mediocre better than the Jets." job in the preseason. I was surprised when I heard the announcement and wish them the best. Logically, Daunte Culpepper is the better choice because of his Brett Favre. experience—this will be his 11th season. I think Culpepper will get the Lions pole. The Falcons and Saints have young studs at quarterback. The Panthers do contesting for a .500 record; I don’t see them as a postseason team yet. not and they will be the odd team out. The return of Tom Brady will definitely boost the New England Patriots, but The NFC West is simple; it’s the second-worst division in football and there is just how good is his knee? His recently injured shoulder may hinder his passing no way Kurt Warner stays healthy two years in a row, so the Seattle Seahawks ability for the time being, so that is a question mark. will take back the division. The New York Giants are now without two receivers that helped them win Two out of four divisions in the AFC have clear-cut champions and no other Super Bowl XLII—Plaxico Burress and David Tyree. Burress was arraigned and real contenders. Sorry to say this Jet fans, but the New England Patriots will sentenced to two years in jail, and Tyree was let go because of his oft-plagued walk away with the East. injury. They drafted Hakeem Nicks in the first round to fill in for Burress, but is In the worst division in football the San Diego Chargers will have the AFC he the answer to the problem? That remains to be seen. West locked up by week ten and will be sitting their starters. The Kansas City Chiefs acquired former Patriot quarterback Matt Cassel, and The AFC North should finish the same way it did last year, but look for a much he looked good in a preseason until his knee got twisted in a tackle. Now, with improved Cincinnati Bengals team to make a strong push but fall just short of his status shaky, who’s going to call signals for the Chiefs? And if healthy, is Cas- the playoffs. sel the solution to their offensive struggle the last 2 seasons in which they went The AFC South is where you are going to see a shocker this year. The a combined 6-26? Texans will have a break-out year and jump over both the Indianapolis Colts and The trade between the Denver Broncos and the Bears drew ev- the Tennessee Titans to win the division. eryone’s attention—and my frown. It’s the worst trade of 2009. Jay Cutler The Super Bowl will come down to the Chargers and Saints. The ex-starting would have been much better off staying in Denver because he had Brandon quarterback for the Chargers—Drew Brees—who was shown the door for in- Marshall to throw to. Who will he pass to in Chicago? Who will be Cutler’s fa- coming quarterback Phillip Rivers, will get his sweet revenge and be victorious vorite target? And Kyle Orton didn’t fare too well for the Bears, so how the in . heck is he going to be better for the Broncos, even with Marshall (if Brandon resolves his personal issues with the Broncos soon)? Good luck, Denver and Chicago…neither team will make the postseason as far as I am concerned.

JOHN JAY AFC North Baltimore Ravens Pittsburgh Steelers AFC East New England Patriots New England Patriots AFC South Houston Texans Indianapolis Colts AFC West San Diego Chargers San Diego Chargers Wild Card Pittsburgh Steelers Baltimore Ravens Wild Card Indianapolis Colts Houston Texans NFC East Philadelphia Eagles Philadelphia Eagles NFC North Minnesota Vikings Minnesota Vikings NFC South New Orleans Saints Carolina Panthers NFC West Seattle Seahawks Seattle Seahawks Wild Card New York Giants Arizona Cardinals Wild Card Atlanta Falcons New Orleans Saints AFC Championship Chargers over Patriots Pittsburgh over San Diego NFC Championship Saints over Eagles Eagles over Saints Super Bowl Saints over Chargers Steelers over Eagles