OUR BLOG HAS MOVED

Hello!

We have some great news. The NYU Arts and Science Alumni Blog has a new home. Please bookmark the following site and while you're at it, subscribe!

http://blogs.nyu.edu/as/alumni/


We have a lot of exciting things in the works for the new blog and we encourage you to send us your news, stories and information.

Ear to the Earth, the New York festival of sound, music, and ecology

Looking for something fun and interesting to do over the next few weeks? Why not check out the Ear to the Earth Festival. Here is a blurb from the press release:

New York, NY -- 2008 Ear to the Earth, a unique festival of sound, music and ecology presented by Electronic Music Foundation, returns to the city to kick up the volume of our sonic environment, October 9-25. For its third installment, the festival will launch New York Soundscape, a panoramic portrayal of the metropolis’s audio personality and urban ecology through concerts, installations, public forums and sound walks created by a mix of internationally acclaimed composers, sound artists, students and NY residents from all walks of life. This year’s festival also includes a series of three concerts at the Chelsea Art Museum, highlighting instrumental music with an ecological bent, and featuring soundscapes from other parts of the world. Ear to the Earth will close with a star-studded performance of John Cage's Lecture on the Weather.

For much more information please visit http://www.eartotheearth.org

Numerous NYU professors are involved in this festival and we encourage you to check out the daily schedule of events listed on the above website. One event that might be of particular interest to you is New York Big Fritz which is presented in collaboration with NYU.



Cloud Car – a mobile installation highlighting the connection between the automobile, life and the air in New York City. The Cloud Car will be at the New York Hall of Science on Saturday October 25th from 10 am - 3 pm.. The installation consists of a parked Ford Taurus station wagon fitted with mist bars, hoses, pumps and other special-effect devices that will envelop car and rider in a cloud of mist. Visitors are invited to sit in the car and listen to environment-related sound compositions on the car stereo

Our Blog Is Being Worked On

Dear Readers,

You may have noticed that there has been a lack of new posts on this blog recently. This is because we are currently in the process of making some very exciting changes. Please keep checking back for updated information about these changes and rest assured that new posts will be appearing very soon. In the meantime, here are two books by NYU alumni authors that you should definitely check out!

1) The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti



Here's a review of Ms. Tinti's book from the New York Times.

2) American Widow by Alissa Torres



Here's a review of American Widow from the New York Times.

Yvonne Latty's Award-Winning Play, "In Conflict" gets New York Premiere

Be sure to read the recent NY Daily News article written by Clem Richardson about NYU journalism professor Yvonne Latty. Click here to read the piece.

From the NYU Journalism Website:

Yvonne Latty is the author of In Conflict: Iraq War Veterans Speak Out on Duty, Loss and the Fight to Stay Alive (Polipoint Press 2006) and the critically acclaimed We Were There: Voices of African American Veterans, from World War II to the War in Iraq (Harper Collins/Amistad 2004). She worked for the Philadelphia Daily News for 13 years where she was an award winning reporter specializing in urban issues. Professor Latty was featured in the History Channel’s Documentary Honor Deferred and has lectured nationally. Born and raised in New York City, she earned a BFA in Film/Television and later an MA in Journalism from New York University.

For more information please visit www.yvonnelatty.com.

Kenny (WSC, '90), Moose and Goose

One of the most versatile sports broadcasters in the country, Kenny Albert (WSC, '90) has become a fixture in the New York Rangers radio booth calling the play-by-play action since 1995. Albert, who has called all four major sports during his professional career, has described the action for over 1,000 professional hockey games over the last two decades. Additionally, Albert is a contributor to MSG.com where you can find him frequently blogging on the Rangers.

For his complete bio from the MSG website, click here. We are currently trying to secure an interview with Mr. Albert for the blog so check back.

"3 Men and a Gallery"

Terry Rosenfelder (WSC, '66) has a new fine art exhibit, "3 Men and a Gallery," at Bank of the Arts in New Bern, North Carolina, along with two other painters. The show opens today, September 9, 2008 and continues through October 25. Mr. Rosenfelder taught art in public schools for over 25 years; he retired in 2006, and he now devotes himself full time to painting. Inspired by such artists as Monet, Hopper and Wyeth, he fills his paintings with light, shadows, color and detail.

Click here to visit Mr. Rosenfelder's site.

NYU Arthur Carter Journalism Institute

New York University's Faculty of Arts and Science has re-designated its Department of Journalism the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute, in recognition of Arthur Carter's long-time support of journalism education at the university. NYU will celebrate the new designation of its journalism program at an Oct. 6 ceremony.

Please click here to read the full press release.

To find out more exciting information and news on the Journalism Department please click here.

Genomics and NYU

New York University and the American Museum of Natural History have received a $1.6 million grant from the National Science Foundation to explore plant evolution and to create a public database that provides information about the structure and inferred function of proteins found in two plant genomes. The three-year grant will allow the researchers at both institutions to investigate ground-breaking methods for exploring the evolution, structure, and function of proteomes— the entire array of proteins expressed by a genome.

Please click here to read the press release in its entirety.

As you may know, NYU is at the forefront of Genomics. But in order to continue to build in this rapidly evolving field, our scientists need facilities to match their extraordinary talents.

The revolutionary new Center for Genomics and Systems Biology planned for 12-16 Waverly Place is at the very heart of NYU's Washington Square campus. It will give our professors, researchers, graduate, and undergraduate students the tools they need to unleash the full potential of their research and to remain at the forefront of their field. While key sources of funding for ongoing research projects have already been secured, building these facilities will require the support and generosity of our entire University community.

Please take a moment to visit Endless Possibilities: The Campaign for The Center for Genomics and Systems Biology for more information. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Who Knew Punk Rope Originated At NYU?

Are you looking to get some great exercise and have fun at the same time? If so, Punk Rope is for you. That's right, Punk Rope.

Punk Rope is a fitness class created by NYU alumnus, Tim Haft (GSAS '86). Tim also worked at NYU as a career counselor in the Office of Career Services from 1988 to 1993. So it's only fitting that Tim launched Punk Rope at NYU. The first class was held at Coles in 2004. Since then Punk Rope has spread to community centers, health clubs, college rec centers, and schools in 12 states.

But you're still probably scratching your head wondering what exactly is Punk Rope. Take one part recess, one part boot camp, and one part rock concert. Toss in a blender, flip the switch, and voila you have Punk Rope. More specifically Punk Rope combines creative calisthenics with rope jumping, group conditioning drills, and core training for a highly effective workout which improves aerobic capacity, bone density, body composition, coordination, agility, timing, and balance.

Most importantly, Punk Rope is fun. It's a great way to get an intense workout, laugh, make new friends, and listen to some incredible music all at the same time. Most classes are thematic in nature meaning that the music and drills relate to a particular holiday or cultural event such as Oktoberfest, the Super Bowl, or International Women's Day. This approach to exercise helps to distract the participant and reduces the discomfort often associated with intense exercise.

Want to sign up for a Punk Rope class? Here's the information:

New York University Recreation
Punk Jump Rope, "Bootcamp in the playground"
Palladium Athletic Facility
Tues & Thurs 7:30-8:25 PM
9/16- 10/16 (10 classes) $45.00
Course #PLD 414

In Person Registration @ Coles, 181 Mercer St
Mon 9/9, 8-12 & 4-8 pm
Wed & Thurs 9/10 –11, 12-8 pm

Be sure to take advantage of the great Alumni Gym Membership Offer by clicking >here.

For more information about Punk Rope, please visit www.punkrope.com.

Jeff Han Steals The Show At Nvision '08

Jeff Han, founder of Perceptive Pixel and a computer scientist at New York University, recently stole the show at Nvision 08 as he demonstrated his interface-free, touch-driven computer screen. Here's an article about it and if you'd like to see Mr. Han demonstrating the screen, click here.

We are hoping to get a video interview with Mr. Han and perhaps a personal demonstration to post on this blog so check back!

Perceptive Pixel, Inc. was founded by Jeff Han in 2006
as a spinoff of the NYU Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences
to develop and market the most advanced multi-touch system in the world.

NYU Student-Alumni Mentoring Event

Please join fellow NYU alumni and students for an open house to share your career advice, practical tips, and the secrets to your success. Come and enjoy refreshments and get acquainted with students who need and want mentors, and share with them valuable input that will help them to achieve their goals and shape their future.

Your participation is needed to help create a warmer, stronger alumni-student community at NYU. Alumni who attended this event last year had a wonderful time and made valuable connections with students. We hope we can count on you to do the same this year. Below are the details for this great event:

September 3
6:00-8:00PM
Jeffrey S. Gould Welcome Center
50 West Fourth Street (at Washington Square Park East)

For more information please email Melissa Davison at melissa.davison@nyu.edu and say you saw this on our blog.

KTLA Anchor Cher Calvin (CAS, '97)

Cher Calvin (CAS,'97) anchors the "KTLA Morning News," and is a 2005 Emmy Award recipient. She has also picked up three Golden Mike Awards for KTLA, two for Best Public Affairs Program, "Access LA" and one Golden Mike for the "KTLA Morning Show".

Born and educated in the US, Cher took up broadcast journalism in New York University and began her career at the news desk of TIME Magazine while completing her internship at Cable News Network (CNN) in New York. She was eventually offered a part-time job at CNN, and continued working at TIME and CNN simultaneously until she moved to Manila to have her taste of Philippine broadcast journalism.

You can read a recent interview with Ms. Calvin published in the Asian Journal Online by clicking here.

Galaxy Craze (GSAS, '97)

Galaxy Craze's new novel, Tiger, Tiger, picks up where her previous novel By The Shore ends.

GALAXY CRAZE received a BA from Barnard College and attended the NYU creative writing program on a full scholarship from The New York Times. Born in London, she currently lives in New York City. She is the author of By the Shore, which was a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Award for best debut.

Click here to read an article in today's LA Times about Ms. Craze.

Upcoming Events: NYU Women's Initiative

October 7
6:30–8:00 PM
The Grey Art Gallery
100 Washington Square East

The NYU Women's Initiative Presents
The Poetics of Cloth: African Textiles / Recent Art
This dynamic exhibition will compare and contrast traditional textiles with contemporary paintings, sculpture, photographs, and videos by leading African artists, illuminating the connections between past and present. These stunning works will demonstrate how African artists from different countries and backgrounds share a common engagement with one of the most fundamental and traditional forms of African art.

We hope you can join us for this wonderful event.
Click here for more information and here to register for the event.

In The Land of No Right Angles

Daphne Beal(GSAS '98)has published her debut novel, In The Land of No Right Angles, which chronicles the friendship between a Nepalese woman and an American woman. A former editor of the New Yorker, she has also done editorial work for Artforum and The Chinati Foundation's publication Art and the Landscape. She is married to the writer Sean Wilsey.

Click here to get more information on Daphne Beal and In The Land of No Right Angles, and here's a recent interview with Ms. Beal, published in the New Jersey Star Ledger.

"Off The Beaten (Subway) Track" by Suzanne Reisman (CAS, '97)

Tired of visiting the same NYC attractions? Well have we got a treat for you! Let us introduce you to Suzanne Reisman (CAS, '97) who is today's guest blogger and sent in the following entry:

NYU is a top ranked university, and one of its many attractive features for students, faculty, and staff is that it makes use of the greatest campus in the world: New York City. When I decided to attend NYU in 1994, I had every intention of returning to my hometown of Chicago after graduation. Yet after living in New York for only three years, I found that it was impossible to leave. In my subsequent 11 years as a full-time New Yorker, I explored the City diligently, looking for the things beyond the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park that make New York what it is. The resulting book is Off the Beaten (Subway) Track: New York City's Best Unusual Attractions (Cumberland House Publications).

NYU's Washington Square campus is not only surrounded by cool little museums, like the Ukrainian Museum (check out the pysanka, known in English as Easter eggs), the Forbes Galleries (most impressive toy collection ever), and the Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art (self-explanatory), but it's central location allows for the easy implementation of what I call the "subway road trip." Subway road trips are city-dwellers a low carbon footprint way to go see some unusual sites, just like one might do on a typical road trip, but not requiring the use of a car. Off the Beaten (Subway) Track offers 101 sites that are easy to get to using the subway and/or bus from around NYU.

For example, one might head over to Union Square and jump on the #4 train to the Bronx. The intrepid explorer can debark at Burnside Avenue and head over to the Hall of Fame for Great Americans. On the way to this leafy, bizarre monument to 100 "great Americans," you'll pass by Aqueduct Walk, a portion of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, on your way to the Bronx Community College campus. (This was originally the campus of NYU, which is responsible for the Hall of Fame.) Contemplate the various busts that represent each Hall of Famer, then hike up University Avenue (or jump back on the #4 train) to Kingsbridge Rd. Just west of the subway station is the 258th Field Artillery Armory, reputedly the World's Largest Armory. Sadly, the fantasy castle-like building is in horrific disrepair, but hopefully some day it will be restored and usable by the community. Continuing east on Kingsbridge Road, you will arrive at Edgar Allen Poe's cottage. Yes, right in the center of Grand Concourse sits a cottage which contains the bed Poe's wife Virgina died in! This is also where the great poet wrote Annabell Lee, Eureka, and The Bells. Return to NYU by hopping a downtown D train to West 4th Street.

For more subway road trip ideas, pick up a copy of Off the Beaten (Subway) Track online or at the NYU Bookstore.


Thanks so much Suzanne. We have our own office copy of this fabulous book and are looking forward to navigating the unusual attractions uncovered by Suzanne. Why not pick up a copy this weekend and start exploring?

Courant Team Creates iBird

Have you always wanted to experience the feeling of flying through the air like a bird? Well now you can, thanks to a group of students and faculty at the New York University Media Research lab who have created the iBird, a "bird-flight simulator" that gives one the sensation of flying through a virtual world without ever leaving the ground. Click here to see a video demonstration and here for more information about the simulator.

"Don't Tell A Soul", A New Thriller By Author David Rosenfelt (Heights '70)

David Rosenfelt (Heights, '70), the author of a legal mystery series, has written his first stand-alone thriller, "Don't Tell a Soul", currently in bookstores. He has also written three television movies, including the TNT movie Deadlocked, starring Charles Dutton and David Caruso. Mr. Rosenfelt and his wife began the Tara Foundation in 1995, an organization named after their golden retriever that rescues dogs. For more information on Mr. Rosenfelt please visit his website by clicking here.

Francis Tuoti (Heights '52), Still Riding

Francis Tuoti(Heights '52) is the oldest member of greater Danbury's Hat City Riders motorcycle club. The Hat City Riders motorcycle club is open to anyone interested in riding, regardless of age, race, gender or type of bike.

Click here to read an article by Tiffany Citroen about Mr. Tuoti and his passion for riding, published in The News Times.

Marcus Jackson (GSAS '06)

Marcus Jackson's (GSAS '06) poem, "Mary at the Tattoo Shop," was published in the July 21, 2008 edition of the New Yorker. To read the poem click here and click here to read a recent article on Mr. Jackson.

"At Home with Their Books"

There's a wonderful article in today's New York Times on the incredible mural, At Home with Their Books, by artist Elena Climent. The mural, measuring 30 ft. wide by 10 ft. high and comprising six panels, is the artist’s largest work to date. It is read from left to right and depicts intimate scenes of the spaces in which famous writers from New York City composed their well-known novels, poems, or essays, presented in chronological order. The writers are Washington Irving, Edith Wharton, Zora Neale Hurston, Frank O’Hara, Jane Jacobs, and Pedro Pietri.

If you would like to come to campus to see the mural it is housed in NYU's Languages and Literature Building, 19 University Place ( at E. 8th St.). It's truly an amazing work of art and we know you will enjoy it.

American Morning correspondent, Lola Ogunnaike (GSAS '99)

Lola Ogunnaike (GSAS '99) is the entertainment correspondent for CNN's morning news program, American Morning. Click here to read more about Ms. Ogunnaike.

Glenn Morrow (WSC '78) and the Individuals

Glenn Morrow (WSC '78) is a former member of the Individuals, a Hoboken, New Jersey band that in the early 1980s was part of a movement called the Hoboken Sound; he sang lead vocals and played guitar, saxophone, and keyboards. The band's two albums, Fields and Aquamarine, were named by a New York Times critic as among the 10 best albums in 1981 and 1982. Mr. Morrow is currently a partner in Bar None, a Weehawken, New Jersey-based independent record label. The band recently played a reunion concert at Maxwell's, the club where the Hoboken Sound started and flourished. Click here to read a recent interview with Mr. Morrow. here to visit their MySpace page.


On a completely different note, be sure to tune in to The Food Network tonight at 9:00pm EST to see Food Detectives starring Ted Allen! Here's a synopsis of tonight's show:

The 5-Second Rule
Can I really eat something off the floor if I pick it up in less than 5 seconds? How do I stop my mouth from burning after I've eaten spicy food? Is the baking soda in my fridge doing anything? Ted Allen and his culinary sleuths set out to prove the answers to these questions, once and for all!

Anne Slowey (GSAS '94) in Stylista

Anne Slowey (GSAS '94), Elle's Fashion News Director and former Project Runway judge has a new show, Stylista, which will air in the fall on the CW network. The CW website states:

If "The Devil Wears Prada" were a reality show, it would be Stylista. Eleven aspiring fashion enthusiasts vie for a much-coveted editorial job with Elle magazine, working as assistants to Elle's Fashion News Director, Anne Slowey, a demanding but well-respected fashion icon.

Here's a clip from the show:

Join Our Social Networks!

As you may know, we have many online social networks for you to join. This is a great way for you to stay in touch with other alumni and with our office to find out about programs, events and other exciting information.

Facebook Group: CAS Alumni Association

Linkedin (Search for the following groups):
NYU CAS Alumni
NYU GSAS Alumni


Flickr: NYU CAS Alumni

NYU Hosts "Simone de Beauvoir Week" Sept. 15-20

Commemorating the 100th anniversary of Simone de Beauvoir’s birth, New York University’s Center for French Civilization and Culture will host “Simone de Beauvoir Week” from September 15 to 20, featuring documentary films about Beauvoir, a theatrical presentation, and a major international conference entitled “All Said and Done/Tout Compte Fait.”

Toril Moi from Duke University will deliver the keynote address on Thursday, September 18, at 7:30 p.m. Other conference participants include Deidre Bair, Beauvoir’s biographer; Annie Cohen-Solal, author of the acclaimed Sartre: A Life; and Hazel Rowley, who wrote the controversial book Téte-à-Téte: The Tumultuous Lives and Loves of Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre.

Most sessions of the conference and the theatrical presentation take place at NYU’s Maison Française, 16 Washington Mews. The films are screened at NYU’s Cantor Film Center, 36 E. 8th Street. For specific information, call 212.998.8750 or log on to: http://french.as.nyu.edu/object/beauvoir.html

Take An Amazing Trip To China

It's time for our NYU Alumni Trip of The Week. This week we are heading to China. This is one of the most popular trips and we encourage you to reserve your spot today. The dates are October 15-27, 2008 and below are just a few highlights of this trip:

* See legendary wonders not easily accessible independently on a comprehensive program with included excursions priced at an exceptional value.
* Marvel at Beijing's Imperial Palaces and Great Wall, Xi'an's Terra Cotta Warriors, and the Bund in Shanghai.
* Experience Chinese culture with a Hutong Pedicab Tour and traditional Peking Opera performance in Beijing and a show by The Shanghai Acrobatic Theater.
* Cruise the scenic Yangtze River aboard the MV Yangtze President and marvel at the Three Gorges. All shore excursions are included.
* China's best, new Western-style hotels ensure your comfort.
* Travel at ease! Your experienced AHI Travel Director is always present to offer assistance and regional insight.

For more information or to be added to the travel program mailing list, please contact Marian Newsom at (212) 998-6940 or via email at marian.newsom@nyu.edu. We hope you will travel the world with us!

The Good Thief, Hannah Tinti's ( GSAS '97) Debut Novel

Hannah Tinti's (GSAS '97) debut novel, The Good Thief, will be released in the United States on August 26, 2008; it is published by The Dial Press, a division of Random House, and was just released in Great Britain. The novel, set in 19th-century New England, is a fast-paced adventure story that features a one-handed orphan boy, seedy characters, and a journey through fishing ports and early industrial towns, according to Ms. Tinti. Previously, she worked for magazines, published a collection of short stories in 2004 called Animal Crackers, and is editor of a literary magazine, One Story. Click here for a recent article on Ms. Tinti.

Be sure to visit Ms. Tinti's website by clicking here. On September 10, 2008 at 7pm at the Happy Ending Bar (302 Broome St, NY, NY, Ms. Tinti will be doing a reading with NYU alumnus, Darin Strauss.

Giving To NYU Is Just A Click Away

Last week we had mentioned that Bob Balaban (WSC '77) was nominated for two Emmy awards and we are pleased to announce that another alumnus, Chris Wilcha (WSC '93) has also been nominated for an Emmy for his brilliant work as Director for Showtime's This American Life. Chris is extremely talented and be sure to check out the first season of This American Life which is now available on DVD. We are scheduling a time to interview Chris for this blog and look forward to posting that interview for you. If you have a specific question for Chris please email it to us.

Are you looking to make a gift to NYU? If so, I want to direct your attention to the new Giving Site. It's so easy to do so why not make your gift today?

Bob Balaban (WSC '77) Receives Two Emmy Nominations

Congratulations to NYU alumnus Bob Balaban on his two Emmy nominations:

1) Outstanding Director For a Miniseries, Movie, or a Dramatic Special, Bernard and Doris
.
2) Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Miniseries Or A Movie, Recount.

John Friedman (GSAS, '74) Explores Lightning In His Most Recent Book

NYU Alumnus John Friedman recently published a new book that explores the phenomenon of lightning. I encourage you to read it and send in your reviews and comments.

In this marvelous blend of science, history, and astonishing storytelling, an acclaimed journalist explores lightning from its meteorological origins to its profound influences on human beings across the globe.

OUT OF THE BLUE
John S. Friedman

Lightning has provoked fear and fascination in mankind for millennia. In OUT OF THE BLUE, John S. Friedman delivers an informative, entertaining scientific and cultural history of this spectacular and dangerous force of nature.

Since the earliest civilizations, people have tried to make sense of what Herman Melville called “God's burning finger.” Friedman traces beliefs about lightning throughout history, and explores the famous experiments of scientists from Ben Franklin to Charles Steinmetz, who produced lightning in a lab. And Friedman rides with modern-day storm chasers, probing the roots of their risk-taking and the evolution of storm-tracking technology.

Friedman also talks with dozens of people who have been hit by lightning and lived to tell the tale. Sharing their fascinating, hair-raising stories, he reveals the life-altering medical, emotional, and often spiritual effect the experience has on survivors. Being struck by lightning almost invariably raises questions in their minds of destiny and divine retribution. And extraordinary coincidences are not uncommon. One man in Virginia has been struck seven times.

Combining captivating fact with thrilling personal stories, OUT OF THE BLUE is perfect for outdoor adventurers, nature lovers, science and weather buffs, and anyone who has ever been awed by the sight of a lightning bolt.

The Oscar-winning producer of the documentary “Hotel Terminus,” JOHN S. FRIEDMAN has written for the New York Times and other publications, and contributes regularly to The Nation. The editor of The Secret Histories, he lives in Connecticut.

To purchase a copy of Out of the Blue, click here.

Gwendolyn Chabrier (WSC '71, GSAS '72) Publishes New Novel

American writer and NYU alumna Gwendolyn Chabrier was recently in Bangkok promoting her new novel Norman Mailer: The Self-appointed Messiah which was published in Thailand. Click here to read an article about the book and here to read a profile on Ms. Chabrier.

Explore the Italian Riviera in September with NYU Alumni

I have been promoting the NYU Alumni Travel Program every now and then on this blog and this trip really looks great. Here are just some of the highlights:

* Delight in stunning views of the coastal and mountain scenery from your room at the first-class Hotel Vis à Vis, overlooking the charming town of Sestri Levante.
* Visit the beautiful villages of the famous Five Lands, the coastal Cinque Terre.
* Discover Portofino, nestled in a picturesque harbor, and the seaside resort of Santa Margherita.
* Explore Genoa, the affluent medieval city-state and maritime republic credited as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.
* See the magic of a sculptor at work in Carrara and marvel at the transformation of the famous snow-white marble into art.
* Journey to the Tuscan town of Lucca to see its magnificent medieval monuments.

If you have been on any of the recent trips and I know many of you have, please be sure to send your photos our way so they can be posted on this blog and shared with the alumni community. If you'd like to sign up for this trip and secure a spot, click here. If you have any questions feel free to contact Marian Newsom at (212) 998-6940 and be sure to let Marian know you saw the trip mentioned on this blog.

David Oshinsky's Book Review

David Oshinsky is a distinguished scholar in residence at NYU and is a leading historian of modern American politics and culture, his books include A Conspiracy So Immense: The World of Joe McCarthy, which won the Hardeman Prize for the best work on the U.S. Congress and was a New York Times “Notable Book of the Year”; Worse Than Slavery, which won the Robert F. Kennedy Book Award for its “distinguished contribution to human rights” and was also a New York Times “Notable Book of the Year”; and Polio: An American Story, which won both the Pulitzer Prize for History and the Hoover Presidential Book Award in 2006. Dr. Oshinsky is a co-editor of the Oxford Companion to United States History and a co-author of American Passages: A History of the United States. His essays and reviews appear regularly in the New York Times and other national publications.

This past weekend, his review of the book by Ted Widmer, Ark of the Liberties appeared in the New York Times. Click here to read the review.

Pizza for the Hungry: A Smile brings Hope

Obaid Kadwani(WSC '94) is the Business Manager of eyeBLINK, a non-profit arts organization that uses theater, dance and special events to promote social change. Obaid started a philanthropic effort in 2007 called eyeBLINK’s “Pizza for the Hungry: A Smile brings Hope,” where eyeBLINk donated 5000 slices in 5 days to 5 NYC homeless shelters. In 2008, the project expanded to 13 pizza parties in 4 states in 5 days. The organization's goal is to bring a moment of joy to the shelter’s guests. It is also a celebration of the best in humanity as the donors come together in a coalition of many religions, nationalities and races to help those in need. “Pizza for the Hungry” hopes to expand to 20 states next year. Be part of the sea-change at www.eyeblink.org.

It is our pleasure to introduce our first guest blog entry sent in by Obaid Kadwani. Thanks Obaid!

When NYU asked me to blog about my experiences while organizing “Pizza for the Hungry: A Smile brings Hope,” my first thought was “I don’t know how to blog!” My second thought was “I don’t know to blog!” My third thought was, “I blame NYU!” NYU’s Journalism dept. taught me how to write news articles, features, broadcast writing and press releases, but not a thing about blogs! By now, you’ve guessed that I was journalism major.

I put together “Pizza for the Hungry” for the first time last summer, after a continuing education course about fundraising in the spring, taught by Mrs. Naomi Levine (whom I love, one of my best teachers ever…not sucking up here, just the absolute, cross-my-blog, truth), at the NYU Heymann Center. Last year's battle-cry was: 5 Days, 5 NYC homeless shelters, 5,000 Pizza Slices. So as we planned this year's pizza project, I said, “Let’s do more.” I wanted to help more people and wanted to grow the project because there was such a favorable response last year.

It was a challenge as my background is in entertainment, not fundraising. My goal was to double the project's scope to 10 shelters. Last year, it was hard to find the shelters to participate and to convince them that we just wanted to throw a pizza party. This year, lining up the shelters probably took me about 5 minutes. They’d either heard about us, or we could give them a reference from last year’s shelters as well as press articles and pictures from our site.

Happily, we ended up exceeding our 10-shelter target, which, of course, also made it harder putting all the coordination and sufficient funding together. From June 16th – June 20th, eyeBLINK would donate 15,000 slices to 13 shelters in 4 states.

I attended all the NYC pizza parties. At the Bowery Mission, there were some volunteers who had come from Australia. The musician, Ken, was playing the conga drums. Guests were bobbing to the beat while enjoying the pizza. In the Love Kitchen, there were all these children who were clamoring for the pizza. In Love Gospel Kitchen in the Bronx, guests were cheering before the party even began. And we ordered 35 more pizzas as the guests kept coming. And we ordered 40 more pizzas after that. From Tulsa, we heard that 70 guests ate 80 pizzas! When a guest asks me to eat with them, or grabs my hand to thank me, or asks when we’re coming back, or just smiles…it’s totally worth it! It is!

Our donors were very excited, and in fact, many donated, because we had people of different religions, nationalities and races helping people in need. One generous Jewish doctor sponsored pizzas for 2 shelters. 2 Muslim groups took care of pizzas for 2 New Jersey shelters and raised money for a third shelter. A Hindu business sponsored another New Jersey shelter and helped raise money for other shelters. And the shelters/mission/kitchens were all faith-based Christian organizations and they were eager to work with this broad coalition.

We gave an opportunity to our donors to make a person happy for just $1, which bought 2 slices. With Domino's sponsoring discounted pizzas, many donors were able to join the project and be part of the sea-change.

As I look back, what sticks with me is, we made thousands of people smile. We gave them a happy moment, a simple pleasure, a moment that was created specifically to express the fact that others cared….and a smile brings HOPE!

Maricel Presilla (GSAS '79), Culinary Historian, Chef, and Author.

Maricel Presilla is the chef and co-owner owner of Cucharamama and Zafra, her pan-Latin restaurants in Hoboken, New Jersey. She is the president of Gran Cacao Company, a Latin American food research and marketing company that specializes in the sale of premium cacao beans from Latin America. Her book The New Taste of Chocolate covers the cultural history of chocolate

For more information on Maricel Presilla please click here to go directly to her website. If you find yourself in Hoboken, be sure to stop by Zafra or Cucharamama and then send us your reviews!

Tony Tesoriero (WSC '79) Knows Service and Value

There was a very nice writeup in the NY Daily News last weekend about Tony Tesoriero (WSC '79), owner/president of eba Wholesale Corp., the place to go in Flatbush for all your electronics, appliance, and bedding needs. Click here to read the article written by Clem Richardson.

Chance Kelly (WSC '90) In Generation Kill

Actor and NYU Alumnus Chance Kelly will appear as Lt. Col. Stephen Ferrando in Generation Kill, an HBO miniseries premiering July 13, 2008. To learn more about Chance, click here.

Ireland, Dublin in an Irish Castle

This week's featured NYU Alumni Trip is Ireland, Dublin in an Irish Castle.

Ireland is a rare land where rugged beauty surrounds quaint villages and contemporary cities alike. Explore this spellbinding country from the cosmopolitan capital of Dublin. Learn about its literary heritage with a visit to the Writers' Museum, stop at Trinity College to see the famous Book of Kells and delight in some of the sights in Dublin's West End. Discover Irish history with a journey to the Neolithic monument of Newgrange; the Hill of Tara, the coronation site of 142 High Kings; and Slane, where St. Patrick lit the Pascal Fire. Marvel at the beauty of the Irish countryside as you travel to Belfast and its impressive squares and buildings. Admire the lovely Powerscourt Gardens and drive through Wicklow Mountains and Gap, which boast some of the most breathtaking panoramas in Ireland.

For more information or to make sure you reserve a spot on this trip, click here.

Darin Strauss ('97 GSAS, Faculty), More Than It Hurts You

More Than It Hurts, the newest novel by Darin Strauss has recently hit bookshelves and is getting much praise.

About Darin (from his website): Darin Strauss will be blogging about his book tour for Newsweek.com. He is the international bestselling author of the New York Times Notable books Chang and Eng and The Real McCoy. Also a screenwriter, he is adapting Chang and Eng with Gary Oldman, for Disney. The recipient of a 2006 Guggenheim Fellowship in fiction writing, he is a Clinical Associate Professor at NYU's Graduate school.

On Monday, June 23, 2008, Mr. Strauss, along with John Hodgman and Jonathan Coulton, participated in an event at the Lillian Vernon Creative Writers House to promote More Than It Hurts.

Here is a blog entry that Mr. Strauss wrote for Newsweek about the evening.

State Approves NYU-Polytechnic Merger

Crain's New York Business is reporting:

The New York State Board of Regents approved the merger between New York University and Polytechnic University. Polytechnic will become a school of technology and engineering within NYU and will be known as the Polytechnic Institute of New York University. The approval is the final step in a process that began last August with talks to combine Polytechnic with NYU. The merger will be effective July 1.

Click here to read the complete article.

NYU At The Zoo

On Sunday, June 22, The College of Arts and Science Alumni Association and the Recent Alumni Network held a day at the Bronx Zoo for NYU alumni, their families, and friends. A good time was had by all and the Go Wild For Madagascar! exhibit was one of many highlights. I leave you with footage of the Ring-Tailed Lemur:

NYU Family Picnic

I hope you had a wonderful weekend! I was delighted to see that this blog was mentioned on Ted Demopoulos' blog, Blogging For Business. I would like to start incorporating guest bloggers (alumni, faculty, students). If you would like to contribute please contact me.

I encourage you to come out and join students and alumni on Sunday, August 24, 2008 from 8:00am to 5:00pm for the NYU Family Picnic presented by the Recent Alumni Network.


Help the newest members of the NYU community move-in with fellow recent alumni and enjoy the NYU Family Picnic on Gould Plaza for a snack or a light meal and networking with students, faculty and fellow alumni!

For more information please contact Andrea Polci at andrea.polci@nyu.edu.

Calling: An Opera of Forgiveness

A scene from Calling, an opera based on Wickham Boyle's ('72 Heights) 2002 book A Mother's Essays From Ground Zero.


Wickham Boyle is a 1972 School of the Arts at the Heights campus graduate who wrote a book called, A Mother’s Essays From Ground Zero. It is now being transformed into an opera, entitled Calling. Boyle is working with composer Doug Geers and architect Marty Kapell('72 Heights,'75 Tisch). The work utilizes music, drama, and a soaring design to tell the tale of one family’s experience living near Ground Zero and the path they took from chaos to recovery and hope.


"Calling is coming to life with a bevy of volunteers lead by Grace Hartmann-Samson ('09 CAS). We have previewed segments of this edgy adaptation in NYC, Minneapolis and Princeton University, and we open at the famed La Mama Theater in the East Village on September 12, 2008.

To get the feel of this exciting project, take a minute to check out our web site or just view the montage by clicking here.

In our most exuberant moments we envision that – beyond playing to theater audiences – Calling will tour schools nationwide and appear at theater festivals around the world, potentially stimulating diverse and constructive discussions about difference and dissonance in our society.

Calling is utilizing a series of grassroots funding techniques to bring the opera to fruition and hope that many NYU alumni will join us on East Fourth Street and visit us on the web."

- Wickham Boyle,'72 Heights

Travel The World With NYU

If you notice on the right hand side of this blog I have added a link which enables you to subscribe to this blog via email. I encourage you to join so that you can keep up with the exciting news and events posted here daily.


I have mentioned the amazing NYU Travel Program before and I would like to start featuring an upcoming trip every week on this blog. The featured trip this week is... *drumroll*


France, Normandy and Brittany!!!





* Experience the charm and culture of two of France's most historic regions, Normandy and Brittany.
* Discover the magnificence of Paris.
* Visit beautiful Bayeux and view the ancient Bayeux Tapestry, which tells the story of the Norman conquest of England in 1066.
* Explore ancient Carnac and the prehistoric monuments that predate the Pyramids and Stonehenge.
* Discover delightful Dinan and St-Malo, two charming medieval towns on the Rance River. Take a cruise on the Rance between these two jewels of Brittany.
* See historic Chartres and view the magnificent cathedral.
* Enjoy a lecture series by local experts on regional history, people and culture.


So grab your adventure cap and join fellow alumni in September for this wonderful trip. Click here for details and be sure to mention that you read about it on this blog.

Helene Stapinski (WSC Alumna) Explores New York Playgrounds

Are you tired of taking your kids to the same old playground? Maybe you've run out of topics to talk to the other parents about? If so, and you like being adventurous, be sure to read Helene Stapinksi's recent piece in the NY Times, New York's Big Backyard. The article takes the reader on a tour of the great playgrounds in the five boroughs which she and her children have discovered.

"There are nearly 1,000 playgrounds in the five boroughs run by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, and picking your favorite is as personal as deciding a name for your child. We love so many, it’s hard to choose. There’s the little playground on the beach at Coney Island with the palm-tree sprinkler; the Vesuvio Playground in SoHo, named after the nearby Italian bakery, with its long jungle gym that’s great for chasing one another. But there are a few that stand out, not just for their newfangled playground equipment, but for their shade, their vibe and the history that surrounds them."


If you take your kids to any of the playgrounds mentioned in the article be sure to let us know by commenting on this post! Do you have a favorite place where you like to hang out? work? people watch? Send us your favorite places and we'll put together a blog tour.

Ted Allen (GSAS '90), Food Detective.

We were thrilled to learn that Ted Allen's new series, Food Detectives will premier on The Food Network on July 29th.

"The half-hour, primetime show mixes a healthy dose of humor with a wealth of fascinating factoids. Aided by willing culinary techs and the brains from Popular Science magazine, the series will conduct experiments to find the truth behind the most interesting food myths and questions. Ted and his team will dig deep to answer such questions as: Does it really take seven years for gum to digest in your stomach? Is the five-second rule true? Can an “apple a day” really keep the doctor away? Viewers can also get in on the fun by submitting their most puzzling food conundrums for potential show experiments"

If you want to learn more about this new show and see what else Ted is up to, check out his website. He keeps a great blog which even features some great recipes. Spicy grapefruit margaritas anyone?

Janelle Nanos- Can One Sibling Pull the Plug If the Others Don’t Want To?

Here's a link to an interesting article in the current issue of New York Magazine written by GSAS Alumna, Janelle Nanos, who received her MA in Journalism at NYU.

Bethenny Frankel (WSC '92)

You may know Bethenny Frankel from The Real Housewives of New York City on Bravo, but did you know that she is an NYU Alumna as well? Bethenny formed her company, Bethenny Bakes which provides wheat, egg, and dairy free baked goods, meals for private clients, and a custom meal delivery service. Bethenny also has some delicious recipes on her site such as the one posted below.

Goat Cheese/Sundried Tomato Chicken Breasts Serves 6

Ingredients:

* 6 boneless chicken breasts
* 1 cup goat cheese
* 1 tsp. dried Italian herbs
* 1 tsp. minced fresh Italian parsley
* Salt and Pepper
* ½ C finely chopped sundried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
* 1 C heavy cream
* 4 cloves minced garlic
* 4 T olive oil

Combine goat cheese, herbs, and salt and pepper. Make slit down the side of each chicken breast creating a pocket. Spoon a layer of goat cheese mixture inside each chicken breast. Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Using sauté pan on med/high heat, layer bottom with olive oil and place chicken breasts facing up in pan until browned. Turn over and brown the other side then heat until fully cooked. Remove chicken breasts. Add minced garlic, sundried tomatoes and heavy cream to the pan. Add salt and pepper, and scrape all bits off the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil then simmer for 5 minutes. Spoon sauce over chicken (you may slice to increase portions)


Have you started your own business? Are you traveling for the summer? Do you have a special recipe you'd like to share? We want to hear from you!! Send us an email letting us know what you are up to and we'll feature you on this blog.

NYU Creative Writing Program Events

If you haven't been to the Lilian Vernon Creative Writers House, I suggest you check out the many wonderful events planned.

The New York University Creative Writing Program is hosting The Paris Review Summer Salon reading series in June featuring writers who have been published in The Paris Review. Readings, which are free and open to the public, take place at NYU’s Lillian Vernon Creative Writers House, 58 W. 10th Street. For further information, call 212.998.8816.

Here are some of the upcoming readings:

Tuesday, June 17, 6 p.m. Fiction reading: novelist Gish Jen, author of three novels, most recently, The Love Wife; J. Robert Lennon, author of five books of fiction, and co-editor of the blog, Ward Six; and Ryan McIlvian, a student of fiction at Rutgers University, are hosted by Radhika Jones, managing editor of The Paris Review, and Nathaniel Rich, senior editor of The Paris Review.

Tuesday, June 24, 6 p.m. Non-fiction reading: author Mark Dow, who wrote American Gulag: Inside U.S. Immigration Prisons, and who is co-editor of Machinery of Death: The Reality of America’s Death Penalty Regime; Uzodinma Iweala, whose first novel Beasts of No Nation won the John Llewellyn Rhys Prize for fiction, and who edits the Nigeria-based Farafina Magazine and is completing a book on HIV/AIDS in Africa; Andrew Rice, whose first book about a murder trial and the legacy of Idi Amin will be published next spring, and who has had his reporting from Africa appear in many publications including The New Republic and The New York Times Magazine; and Said Sayrafiezadeh, who is writing a memoir about growing up in the Socialist Workers Party in New York City and has published stories and essays in Granta and Open City, will be hosted by associate editor of The Paris Review Christopher Cox and deputy editor of The Paris Review Matt Weiland.

Patricia Field (WSC '63) - Sex and the City

If you have seen any episode of Sex and the City, then you have witnessed the amazing work of Patricia Field. Here's a blurb from her website:

Patricia Field is considered one of fashion's greatest visionaries: she is an Academy Award nominated and Emmy Award winning film and television Costume Designer and a boutique owner with her own clothing label. Patricia raised the standards for the world of television glamour when she costumed Sex and the City, the most fashionable show in television history. Critics praised her run with Sex and the City’s stunning and always entertaining costuming, as it was a large part of the show's status as a cultural phenomenon. Fashion editors, socialites, and celebrities alike adopted Patricia’s clothing and style philosophy and regularly sat front row at her House of Field fashion shows. She is a true pioneer, bringing forth a new style of dressing to American women, and through the media she has been able to stimulate an entire fashion movement throughout the world.

Patricia recently launched her new range of diet coke bottles and is currently working on numerous other projects. Here's a great clip that takes a look at Patricia's New York lifestyle:

Come Travel With Us!

I strongly encourage you to take one of the many NYU Alumni Trips that are offered to our Alumni. Click here to see some of the upcoming trips and make your reservations today. The most recent trip to Japan was a big hit and here's a photo of the NYU Alumni Group that went. The photo was taken at the fifth station on Mount Fuji, the highest you can go until the official climbing season starts on July 1.



*Photo courtesy of Leah C.

NYU Alumni Benefits

We'd like to extend a big Congratulations once again to the class of 2008. It's important to make sure you take advantage of the wonderful alumni benefits offered to you. Check out the NYU Alumni Benefits page where you will find information on the NYU Alumni Card, Yoga and Gym Discounts, Library Services, The Princeton Club, Ticket Central, Hotel Discounts, and much much more.

World Science Festival

Be sure to check out the exciting events taking place in May at the World Science Festival! Bring the kids to the WSF Street Fair on Saturday, May 31, from 10:00am-6:00pm.

"The World Science Festival takes to the streets with a non-stop program of interactive exhibits, experiments, games, and shows that will entertain and inspire. Come and join us in the streets around Washington Square — it's fun, it's science, and it's free! Share a laugh with Lucky the Dinosaur, the giant and lovable audio-animatronic creation from Walt Disney Imagineering. Then, travel to the Gobi desert and reconstruct the lives of real dinosaurs in the American Museum of Natural History’s Paleontology of Dinosaurs Movable Museum. If that makes you ready for some excavating of your own, get your hands dirty doing horticulture with the New York Botanical Garden! Chat with Miss Frizzle and hop on Scholastic's Magic School Bus to explore science the Frizz way. And meet other favorite science TV characters: The members of the CyberSquad from Thirteen/WNET's CyberChase invite you to their virtual world. Then there's Snook, from PBS's "It's a Big Big World", a tree sloth who's always up for a scientific expedition. And did we mention that The Zula Patrol will be there, as well? Meet Clifford, the Big Red Dog, and if you don't quite know what to say to him — Word Girl to the rescue! Get your hands on science: play with electricity (safely!), check out a Segway, and dissect an owl pellet. All this and much more is brought to you by Liberty Science Center, the New York Hall of Science, and the Franklin Institute Science Museum. Then, let The Daily Planet from the Canadian Discovery Channel take you on an exploration of invisibility! And for a break, take a look at the cool robots from the New York/New Jersey FIRST robotics program, and meet the student teams who created them! And that's just the start: explore the Physics of Sports with Dr. Penny Hammrich, watch Mad Science present bubbling potions and phreaky physics, listen to the Science Rapper, and get a makeover from the Cosmic Face Painters! Meet Carmelo, the Science Fellow, and Kenny the Kidney — and be on the look-out for surprise celebrity cameos. Take in the Gazillion Bubbles Show, let yourself be amazed by the Mathemagician Arthur Benjamin, and watch out for the Science Fun Squad improv troupe.

In our Author's Corner, experience engaging presentations by Lucy Hawking ("George's Secret Key to the Universe"), Lynn Brunelle ("Pop Bottle Science"), Saul Griffith and Nick Dragotta ("Howtoons")! All action at the street fair is covered by The Scholastic Kids Press Corps.

Venue: The Street Fair will take place in the NYU campus area on and around Washington Square. More information and a map to follow soon!"

Fashion Designer Dorian May (GSAS '93)

From May issue of NYU Connect

Dorian May has a degree in journalism and a secret obsession with vintage clothes. At a primly located studio at 780 Madison Avenue, the journalist turned designer is now showing a new line that is sparking an interest in buyers and major department stores. "It's about elegant versatility," May says, describing the new line which she calls "Edie Sedgwick meets Mary Tyler Moore."

May's passion for style and elegance began at an early age. She attended her first Couture show at 10 years old and begged her parents to subscribe to French Vogue and Elle magazines. While her own designs have evolved through the years, May says her personal style has remained constant. "I've always worn a round toed shoe and still do," she says, "I worry that things I love will wear out before I do."

After studying fashion design at Parsons School of Art and Design in Paris, May's parents encouraged her to pursue a second vocation. She said with a laugh that they must have wanted her to do something less fickle than fashion. So she came to NYU for her masters in journalism, planning to study journalism and cover fashion after she graduated. She recalls "an amazing and inspirational" professor, Ed Diamond, who wrote a media column at New York Magazine. Diamond recommended May to a colleague at the magazine who took her on as an intern. But her days at NYU only furthered her style fixation, as the neighborhoods surrounding the Village are a playground of vintage shops and boutiques.

May went on to work as a journalist on CNN, Fox, and Access Hollywood, before she put down her notebook and picked up a coat hanger for good. Being given instructions to wait outside a bathroom for Leonardo DiCaprio is the last assignment May remembers receiving before she finally gave her notice. So, in 1999 she left her job writing and producing at Access Hollywood to make the transition to personal-shopping.

In 2004, May was named Best Personal Shopper by New York Magazine. And shortly thereafter, she decided to launch her own line. "Everything inspires me," May says of where she gets her ideas, "I'm always staring at everyone on the street. [Looking] for whatever makes people feel confident," she adds.

And as for her what inspired her new line, May says 1960's "it girl" Sedgwick, "came from my home town, so I guess I always secretly felt some outer body connection to her." And Moore, an "it girl" from the following decade is "that working woman who isn't afraid to make it on her own." A combination of Moore and Sedgwick is exactly what describes May, and the women she is designing for today.

Click here to check out Dorian May's website and collection.