The Blue Method performs at Ursa Minor's Cafe in the MSU, next Thursday, Feb. 10. $5 for KU students.



The Daily Brief
Thursday, February 3, 2011


 Announcements

College of Visual and Performing Arts Faculty First Thursday has been postponed until next Thursday, Feb. 10:  Rose DeSiano, assistant professor, Fine Arts Department, will present the “Rwanda Project” next Thursday at 11 a.m. in Sharadin 120. Rose will speak about her involvement in the trial run of a new project, working to bring technology resources to instructors in Africa. It was a success, and has now spread to four countries other than Rwanda. The project was hosted by Google.org and the USAID. She will also talk about her unusual experiences dealing with business and government organizations, in a nation still restructuring after Genocide, where these atrocities continue to affect daily life. 
        William J. Mowder, dean, College of Visual & Performing Arts

The First Annual Language Resource Center Faculty Showcase  - This afternoon, 12:30-1:50 p.m. in DF109. For the first event of its kind, we are proud to have presentations from two of our faculty members: Dr. Carolina Moctezuma will revise her co-authored ACTFL presentation on her use of Web 2.0 tools in Spanish beginner and intermediate courses to target students' speaking, writing and culture skills. 

Dr. Lynn Kutch will present on the expected challenges and benefits of teaching her Spring 2011 on-line German Composition & Conversation course.  As Dr. Kutch notes, "The perhaps unlikely pairing between GER 212, a traditionally interaction-based and conversation-heavy course, and a 100% online format illustrates the radically changing profile of higher education, and one to which we as college level instructors must adapt as we offer hybrid, blended, or courses delivered completely online." In the presentation, she will speak to the meticulous planning phase from Fall 2010, and the measures that she and the Language Resource Center took to anticipate challenges students might face. 

These presentations both showcase exciting and daring use of technology in the learning and teaching of languages. We welcome you to bring your lunch and come out to learn more about your colleagues' exciting initiatives. Kindly RSVP to Deanne Cobb-Zygadlo, cobbzyga@kutztown.edu as space is limited.
        Deanne Cobb-Zygadlo, director, Language Resource Center
Feb 10 is the deadline for submitting applications for this year’s Academic Achievement Awards. The awards are presented to a select group of senior students who have achieved exceptional individual achievements in specified areas. The awards were established through a generous gift provided by Dr. Carlson R. Chambliss, who served as a member of the Kutztown University faculty from 1970 until 2003.

Faculty and staff at Kutztown University are strongly encouraged to nominate students worthy of consideration for this prestigious award. The areas of individual achievement are: a) Successfully completed research projects b) Original artwork of high quality c) Artistic performances (music, chorus, drama, etc.) of high quality d) Original writing in literature or meritorious writing in other fields e) Noteworthy achievements in athletics f) Outstanding service to the Kutztown University community. 

The application may be downloaded at www.kutztown.edu/divisions/studentservices/do/awards.aspx by clicking on "Academic Achievement Nominations" or by e-mailing a request to nolan@kutztown.edu. Completed nomination forms and support documents must be submitted to the Office of the Associate Vice President for Student Services and Campus Life, Room 262 McFarland Student Union Building. Any questions about the process may be directed to nolan@kutztown.edu.
        Julie Nolan, director, Community Relations and Development Services
Senior Orientation for the College of Visual & Performing Arts will be held today, at 11 a.m., in the Multipurpose Room of the MSU. As  a senior, please make the commitment to maximize your chance of success in today’s job market. See all the services and resources offered by your Career Center. Learn how to avoid the “Top Mistakes of a Senior” and get a comprehensive calendar of semester events.
        Linda Lantaff, Career Development Center

Creative Writing and Performance Workshop today, 11-11.50 a.m. in LC 106. Come and stretch your writing wings in a supportive atmosphere. Using the Amherst Writers and Artist method, Dr. Weckerle will lead a creative writing workshop that is open to all levels of experience. Writing exercises will include innovative prompts, an opportunity to read your writing aloud, and a chance to get positive feedback on your writing. You will also get ideas on how to perform your writing aloud. Bring a favorite pen and paper and your open mind to explore what you can do with words. Sponsored by Perforum:  The Forum for Performance. For more information, please contact Dr. Lisa Weckerle at weckerle@kutztown.edu.
        Dr. Lisa Weckerle, associate professor, Speech Communication and Theatre

Girl Scout cookies will be sold on Friday, Feb. 4, from 12:30-5 p.m. in the McFarland Student Union Building near the One Card office. Please come support Daisy Troop 1110 of Kutztown Elementary School, and enjoy a yummy treat.  Cookies are $3.50 per box.
        Robyn Underwood, Biology

Mass Schedule at Christopher House - Since Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday, mass at Christopher House will be held at 4:30 p.m. this week. All are welcome.  
        Monsignor Nevin Klinger, chaplin, Christopher House/Catholic Campus Ministry
This week's MSU Movie Series film is Despicable Me which will be shown in the McFarland Student Union Alumni Auditorium today and Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Admission is free! Please check out the MSU movie website for more information: http://www.kutztown.edu/divisions/studentservices/departments/msub/programs/submovies.asp. 
        John Alfero, technical services coordinator
The Organization for Latino Awareness (OLA) and Sigma Delta Pi (Hispanic Honor Society) have a few open spots in their after-school Spanish program for community children this semester. The program, which begins Feb. 15, is held at KU on Tuesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. This semester we are including a few French classes as well. If you have children ages 5-10 who would like to learn Spanish and interact with KU students, please contact Dr. Karen Rauch at rauch@kutztown.edu or Dr. Christine Coleman Núñez, nunez@kutztown.edu for more information.  
        Christine Coleman Núñez, associate professor, Modern Language Studies

The GLBTQ Resource Center at Kutztown University celebrates its 6th anniversary today with an open house in OM 4 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Refreshments will be made available throughout the day. At this event, the GLBTQ Resource Center will be debuting hundreds of new book titles acquired this past semester that will be made available for rental.
      


ACADEMICS
Save the Dates: Feb. 14 – 25: Join colleagues from around the state at the 2011 Distance Education Virtual Conference hosted by PASSHE. Choose sessions from four conference tracks with topics ranging from “Teaching and Learning” to “Student Services”.  To register and view session information, please visit http://www.passhe.edu/inside/asa/DE2011conf/Pages/Virtual-Conference-Home.aspx or contact Bo Zigner at x6-5828 or zigner@kutztown.edu for more information.

The University Curriculum Committee (UCC) will have a continuation meeting today at 11 a.m.,  in MSU 312, to consider the remaining curricular proposals on its January agenda (which can be found online at http://www.kutztown.edu/committees/ucc/agenda.html  ). As always, individuals and/or departments with proposals on the agenda are invited and encouraged to attend to answer any questions that may arise. 
        R.S. Schaeffer, chair, University Curriculum Committee
The following DVDS were added to the media library are available in the AV Center: 

Monday’s Girls (DVD 4445) -  Monday’s Girls provides an up-to-the-minute look at tradition in today’s changing Africa. It examines the Iria, a women’s initiation ceremony of the Niger River delta, through the contrasting viewpoints of two young women - Florence, who has lived all her life in the delta, and Azikiwe, who has studied in the city for ten years. 

Time for Nonfiction – Part 1 and Part 2 (DVD 4630-4631) Tony Stead explores ways to make nonfiction reading and writing come alive in the classroom. This four-part video set takes you inside two classrooms at the Manhattan New School where Tony works with first grade teacher Lauren Benjamin and third grade teacher Lisa Elias Moynihan. Watch how literacy centers come alive in the classroom and see some of the original ways students respond to their nonfiction reading. 

Pursuit of Equality:  The Unfinished Work of American Freedom (DVD 4629) By issuing same-sex marriage licenses, San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom uproots the status quo, attempts to change the way the nation looks at life, love, and marriage, and ignites what may become our nation’s next great civil rights issue. 
        Ted Hickman, coordinator, AV Center


ATHLETICS
KU Basketball and the KU Athletic department would like to honor you at Faculty & Staff Appreciation night.  Please join us for a complimentary dessert and coffee reception during the women’s & men’s basketball doubleheader vs. West Chester on Wednesday, Feb. 9. Women’s tipoff is at 6 p.m.; men’s tipoff at 8 p.m. The reception will be held in room 106 from halftime of the women’s game through halftime of the men’s game.  Kindly RSVP to goodhart@kutztown.edu by Feb. 4.  Remember, as faculty and staff you receive four complimentary tickets for your family.
        Erin Goodhart-Kurtz, assistant to the Athletic Director
Weekly Home Athletics Schedule 
 Saturday, Feb. 5 - Men's and  women's basketball vs. Shippensburg - 1 p.m. (Keystone Arena)

ARAMARK

 Cub Café: For a limited time during February, try the Spicy Italian Hoagie at Main Street Deli. It is loaded with ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and a Pepperoncini Caesar dressing.  We are also offering Flatbread Pizza Melts at Main Street Deli. Try one today!  

Academic Forum: For a limited time only until February 11, try the Mini Char-Grilled Beef Patty Snack Wraps at the American Grill!

Sysco Food Show is being held today in the South Side Café from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Drop by and meet some of our vendors and sample some of their products! 
        Heather Reinsel, marketing coordinator

Viewpoints Menu - Today:  Roasted chicken, black bean cake, whipped potatoes, cauliflower and peas, mushrooms and red peppers. Soups of the day are turkey vegetable chowder and cheddar soup. 

Friday: Baked whitefish polonaise, macaroni and cheese,  Caribbean sweet potatoes, stewed tomatoes and vegetable medley. Soups of the day are New England clam chowder and tomato rice soup.

In Case You Missed It:
 (Announcements and other information that have previously appeared in the Daily Brief.)

The President holds two open meetings with students each semester. The dates for the 2011 spring semester are: Tuesday, March 1 at 11 a.m. in Boehm 260 and Tuesday, April 19 at 11 a.m. in Boehm 260.
        Toyia Reed, Office of the President

 Ursa Minor's Café is a performance series of unforgettable Thursday night professional arts and entertainment in the MSU multipurpose room. These events feature a relaxed, jazz-club atmosphere, complete with tables, chairs, food and refreshments. Capacity is limited to less than 250 seats, so order early.
 
        - We have table service with a selection of coffees, noches and desserts
        - Bring or buy your own food. Relaxed, social atmosphere, and inexpensive fun for everyone        
        - A great date night out
        - Intimate, jazz club style

 Our next show is Thursday, Feb. 10 with The Blue Method. Tickets are $5 for students and are available at the MSU Info desk or online at www.KutztownPresents.org. See the video promo to Ursa Minor and the Blue Method at http://www.youtube.com/user/KutztownUniversity?feature=mhum#p/u/0/sgTjcfCjYTg   
        J. Andrew Cassano, director, KU Presents!
All Artists - you are invited to submit an original design in the Bearfest 33 Logo Design Contest. This year’s theme is a “Neverland Adventure” with the slogan “'Get Hooked on Bearfest 33!" All submissions are due to the Housing and Residential Services office by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 4. Logos need to include a bear and the slogan. Please submit your design on a CD (unless hand-drawn only) and in both black & white and color. Any questions, please contact Christine Price at price@kutztown.edu. Save the dates for Bearfest 33: Apr. 13-16!
It is time again to help out with Operation Snowflake! Grab your mittens, hats and scarves and get ready to help out Kutztown's disabled or older residents who sign up for assistance with shoveling their sidewalk and clearing off their cars. If you are interested in helping out, please e-mail ocac@kutztown.edu or drop by MSU 281 to sign up. We welcome sports teams, clubs, academic organizations and everyone else who is willing to help out! The program runs Jan 19-March 31. Please contact ocac@kutztown.edu or call x3–1524 or drop by and visit MSU 281 to sign up!

 The University Writing Center, located in OM 132, opened for the Spring 2011 semester. Our open hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m., and Monday & Wednesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. Professors are encouraged to send copies of writing assignments and guidelines via e-mail (wrcenter@kutztown.edu); these provide our tutors with important context as they work with your students. Please keep in mind that the UWC does not provide editing services. Rather, we focus on working with students to provide options and strategies for revision.

 New! Find a link to our website on the Faculty & Staff section of the KU site under "Academic Resources." A link can also be found in the Current Students section under "Student Services." Visit us directly at www.kutztown.edu/writingcenter. Our site explains what to expect in a conference, resources for faculty and bios of our staff. Contact us at wrcenter@kutztown.edu or x3-4733.
        Amy Lynch-Biniek, director, University Writing Center

Creating Digital Flashcards and Other Study Aids for Your Students - The Learning Technologies Center, RL 30 in the Rohrbach Library on Monday, Feb. 7, 2-3 p.m. 

Colleagues, attend this hands-on workshop to gain experience with Studymate. Studymate is an interactive tool you can use to easily create flashcards, pick-a-letter, matching, crosswords, and other study aids that can be added to D2L or posted on your faculty website. No knowledge of programming is necessary to use Studymate.

D2L Gradebook Workshop - Wednesday, Feb. 9, 9-10 a.m. or Thursday, Feb. 10, 10-11 a.m. The Learning Technologies Center, RL 30 in the Rohrbach Library.

Attend this workshop to learn how to configure the D2L gradebook, create gradebook entries, and enter student grades.  Learn how to create letter grade schemes and configure the gradebook so the student sees an accurate running average during the course of the semester.  Learn how to use the categories feature to automatically drop the lowest score in a series of gradebook items.  

To register for either one of these workshops, please contact Eleanor (El) Ambrose, Dept. of Learning Technologies Secretary, at x3-4900 or e-mail El at eambrose@kutztown.edu.  One-on-one training can also be arranged by contacting Will Jefferson, Learning Technologies Center Coordinator, at x3-4757 or via e-mail at wjeffers@kutztown.edu. Please visit our website to learn about other upcoming workshops and events at www.kutztown.edu/academics/lt.
The first show on the Student Union Brick Wall Exhibition Space is up! Chris Leete is showing "Man vs. Destiny" from now until Feb. 10. There will be a catered opening reception tonight, 7-8 p. m. and you are all invited to come and see the show!  
        Alicia Bonilla-Puig and Elizabeth Emmett, gallery coordinators, Student Union Art Gallery