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The Argo - April 13, 2020 Flipbook PDF
The Argo April 13, 2020 The Independent Student Newspaper of Stockton University
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APRIL 13, 2020
VOL. 89 ISSUE XXII
THE ARGO
The independent student newspaper of Stockton University
Above: Pamela Thomas-Fields campaigning before shut-down of public gatherings due to COVID-19. Photo courtesy of Pamela Thomas-Fields.
IN THIS ISSUE:
STOCKTON ALUM KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN; MAKING
STUDENT-ATHLETES
'HER-STORY' IN A.C.
POWER THROUGH ONLINE SEMESTER PG. 3
JESSICA PEOPLES STAFF WRITER
HEMI TO RETIRE; INTRODUCING "FREYA" PG. 5
Stockton alumni and adjunct professor Pamela Thomas-Fields has announced her running for mayor of Atlantic City after the resignation of Frank Gilliam Jr. in October. If elected, ThomasFields would be the first female mayor in Atlantic City, making
ADOPTEES UNITED INITIATED THIS SPRING PG. 6
''her-story' and increasing female representation in politics.
Since graduating from Stockton, Thomas-Fields has obtained her Masters in Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University and is currently pursuing her Educational Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Stockton. Thomas-Fields is now an adjunct
"TIGER KING" DOCUSERIES TAKES OVER NETFLIX PG. 10
professor at the University's School of Business, where she tries to foster community and mentorship within her students. In addition to teaching, Thomas-Fields is also a founding member of the Stockton University Women's Leadership Council, and a member of the University's Foundation Board.
See HER-STORY pg. 4
Editor-in-Chief Alexa Taylor
Assistant Editor Laurie Melchionne The vessel of truth to the Stockton community since 1971 Campus Center 212L 101 Vera King Farris Dr, Galloway, NJ 08205 General Contact: [email protected] Advertising: [email protected]
Business Manager Samantha Hutnick
Copyright © 2020 The Argo Corporation All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form in any way without express written
Copy Editing
permission from The Argo Corporation. The Argo is not an official publication of Stockton University, but is published independently by its students.
Salena LeDonne
The views expressed in The Argo, unless otherwise noted, belong solely to their authors and are not necessarily those of The Argo Corporation, Stockton University, or their affiliates and/or partners. The Argo is not responsible for any items in this publication that may potentially defame, degrade, or otherwise offend one or more persons as a result of reading or acting upon any and all information contained herein. The Editor-in-Chief, Assistant Editor, and Business Manager are the only qualified representatives of The Argo. The Argo welcomes all letters opinions, photographs, cartoons, articles, or other media from the general public; however, The Argo has the right to edit and either grant or deny publication of such media as it sees fit. With the exception of material sourced from a social media profile, the public domain, or any source.
Distributing Joshua Rand
STUDENT-ATHLETES FIND WAYS TO POWER THROUGH ONLINE SEMESTER
Watch the video of the “virtual track meet” here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=633699707464424 KATELYN EMICK FOR THE ARGO
Galloway, N.J. –Spring seasons at colleges and universities came to an unexpected halt amid the coronavirus, but that has not stopped Stockton University studentathletes from getting in some training.
Teams are trying to make training as fun
“Our team has many different GroupMe
and interactive as possible from a distance.
chats. Some are with coaches and some of
Kelsey Andrus and the field hockey team
them are just teammates and event groups.
are completing a “virtual” spring season
The team also has a GroupMe with just us,
and the goal is to have the most points by
and some of us that are closer have a
the end of the season.
Snapchat group,” said women’s track and
Some admit it’s not easy to train on their own. They said the support and motivation
field athlete Susie Foley. “We have various skills and activities that
they get from coaches and one another
we can complete to earn points. For
“I am trying to keep in touch with each of
make a huge impact.
example, we can earn points by practicing
my teammates through GroupMe and other
stick skills, going on a run, or completing
forms of social media to make sure
Jennifer Toal who is on the women’s
Phil’s bodyweight workout. We enter how
everyone is good and well,” soccer team
lacrosse team continues to do the best she
many points we receive for one day into an
member Kiersten Reszkowski said.
can with at-home workouts. “During this
excel document shared with the team,”
unexpected time training can be a little
Andrus said.
Tennis player Sarah Richardson summed it up well: “I think we are all doing the best
challenging. Each day I try to run and either do bodyweight workouts or
The track and field teams missed out on
we can and keeping each other smiling
weighted workouts depending on the type
their first home meet because of the
through these times. It’s important to see
of workout I am doing,” Toal said.
canceled season but coaches responded
how others are coping and to help each
with a creative alternative, a virtual track
other with the transition to online classes.
“We can all agree that it’s difficult having to train alone and not being able to be with each other for motivation,” added men’s track and field athlete Jaivien Kendrick. Teams are trying to make training as fun and interactive as possible
meet of athletes coming up with inventive ways to “compete” at home. As for
”This is a difficult time for everyone, but
connecting with teammates, student-
the support and motivation student-athletes
athletes are using various apps to stay in
have from coaches and one another makes a
touch, including Groupme, Snapchat, and
huge impact.
Facetime.
from a distance.
The Argo April 13, 2020
3
CONT. FROM FRONT: 'HER-STORY' As mayor, Thomas-Fields intends to put Atlantic City residents at the forefront of addressing local issues. Her biggest solutions are based on fostering community and increasing public health and safety. She emphasizes the need for safe neighborhoods, community policing, employment and extracurriculars for young individuals, and improved nutrition and health programs for seniors. "Building community is based on knowing who lives there, paying close attention to their needs, and providing direct services."
Thomas-Fields acknowledged the economic dilemmas faced by residents in Atlantic City. She says taxes are an "obvious issue," reminding that the city has not yet recovered from Superstorm Sandy or the closing of several casinos.
Photo courtesy of
Pamela Thomas-Fields. The current pandemic has also caused casinos to temporarily close, decreasing tourism, resident employment rates, and city
revenue. "AC has hit a lot of peaks and valleys, and we're back to square one," she said.
COVID-19 has also posed some unique challenges for all election candidates. "I used to be able to go into folks' homes and have coffee, or have a debate, or a forum. I would have been able to engage in student groups, and churches, so they could learn about me, and I could ask them, 'what can I do for you?'" she said. Despite her need to campaign virtually, Thomas-Fields recently received an endorsement from the Atlantic City Democratic Committee against Marty Small, who took office after Gilliam Jr. resigned, which she called "incredibly humbling."Thomas-Fields said Stockton's emphasis on student engagement and mentorship greatly influenced her personal and professional development. She was inspired as an osprey student by thenpresident Dr. Vera King Farris to give back and be a leader in her community. It was through obtaining her Bachelor's in Political Science at Stockton that Thomas-Fields became more politically conscious and concerned with being a public servant. "With that degree, here I am today running for mayor of Casino City, so it did help me create a world of understanding political science and work my way up to this opportunity level," she said.
Thomas-Fields says she is grateful for the women in politics before her. "My mentor, Councilwoman Barbara Hudgins, wanted to run for mayor, but the city wasn't ready for her. She paved the way for me," she said. Thomas-Fields hopes this election influences more young women to become involved in politics. According to the Rutgers Center for American Women and Politics, only around 20-25% of elected officials are women. "We have a growing number of women in politics, but we still have a long, long way to go."
"There are a lot of young people who are bright and talented and have the tools and the knowledge to be political leaders in their communities. This race is [about] being an example to make her-story," said Thomas-Fields. In the face of current challenges, she is certain that Atlantic City will persevere. "One thing I can say about this community is that we are resilient, and when it's time to fight, we fight for what's right."
Note from the Editors: In addition to Pamela Thomas-Fields and Mayor Marty Small, James Whitehead is running from the Democratic Party. Thomas Forkin is running unopposed for the Republican Party.
The Argo April 13, 2020
4
AUGUST 22, 2019
VOL. 29
BELOVED HEMI TO BEGIN RETIREMENT PLAN; INTRODUCING EVENTUAL SUCCESSOR, FREYA MATTHEW LEASON STAFF WRITER
Since July of 2011 Stockton’s Police Department has warmly embraced the strong, and ever cheerful four legged officer of the K-9 Unit, Hemi the chocolate labrador retriever. Lieutenant Stuart and K-9 Hemi have been committed to keeping Stockton University a safe and secure environment on campus for the past nine years. For many members of the Stockton community over the past decade, it is hard to imagine Stockton University without Hemi and his handler Lt. Stuart, though time flies by in the blink of an eye.
Come June 22nd, Hemi will celebrate his 11th birthday and have the distinction of a senior dog who will begin the gradual process to retirement from his spot on the
Above: Lt. Stuart and Hemi pose together. Photo courtesy of Lt. Stuart.
K-9 Unit.
His retirement does not have a set date yet, as Lt. Stuart and Hemi still have quite a bit to accomplish before he hangs up his badge. Behind the grey hairs and badge, Hemi has always been a cheerful and happy dog who always seems to love working everyday with Lt. Stuart and for the university’s police department. From members of the police force offering him treats, to students giving him the affection he has earned, Hemi has had -and will continue to have- an amazing time helping to protect the Stockton community. Hemi has been trained to be a bomb dog who sniffs out potentially dangerous substances that could be used to make a bomb in a variety of locations. He has made countless sweeps through Stockton University and other communal based events to give his paw of approval that everything is safe.
His powerful nose and strong body are the result of daily training in different locations with Lt. Stuart, which has helped him both save lives and earn a few honors to his name. For the past two years, Hemi has won national acclaim for his detection work by coming in first place in the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) National Detector Dog Trials. Lt. Stuart and Hemi had planned on attending the 2020 USPCA competition, however it has been delayed due the current global pandemic. Though that has not slowed down Hemi or Lt. Stuart one bit as both have had the opportunity to meet the newest member of the K-9 Unit, 4 year old golden retriever Freya.
Freya has begun her training locally as Hemi begins to make his unhurried retirement from the police department.
See FREYA pg. 7. The Argo April 13, 2020
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AUGUST 22, 2019
VOL. 29
ADOPTEES UNITED AT STOCKTON UNIVERSITY ORGANIZATION INITIATED THIS SPRING MIA FORBES FOR THE ARGO
For all those adoptees and those interested students, listen up! Our current circumstances do not have to define us. Help us offer love and support to one another by joining Stockton’s NEWEST organization — Adoptees United of Stockton University!
We are accepting of everyone, whether you are an adoptee, or someone interested in learning more about our stories. Help us make this organization a reality by sending your name, Z number, and Stockton email to [email protected] to become a member by April 22.
This up and coming organization promotes educating and advocating for the adoptee experience in Stockton University’s community. The organization also aims to build connections with other adoptees and interested students in a welcoming, accepting, and safe space within the community. How often do we have an immediate community in our lives focused on adoptees and their stories? Not very often. So, I wanted to change this narrative, as a fellow Chinese adoptee, and build this community at Stockton University!
We embrace students from all cultures and hope to create a community for adoptees to feel a sense of belonging.We encourage you to help us bring our vision to fruition and become part of our community! We can make such a substantial impact on other people as we do more together than by ourselves.
Interested in honing your writing skills? Want to build up a resume? Write for the Argo! All digital submissions welcome! Send to [email protected] The Argo April 13, 2020
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AUGUST 22, 2019
CONT. FROM PG. 5: "FREYA"
VOL. 29
Above: Freya , Stockton's newest K-9 officer. Photo ccurtesy of Lt. Stuart.
Originally from Virgina, Freya recently celebrated her fourth birthday back on February 1st and has been enjoying her life with Lt. Stuart and Hemi. While both dogs are not training together, they do truly enjoy each other’s company at home, Lt. Stuart notes that Hemi is a little more playful with Freya around, thanks to her energetic and bold nature. Just like Hemi, Freya will go through the explosive detection training at the Canine Academy with Lt. Stuart, though it has been delayed due to the current global pandemic at the moment. For now, that does not stop Lt. Stuart from applying what she already knows to help Freya begin training for her new position. Lt. Stuart has already begun to see Freya’s potential as she has both the people skills and ambition in gaining new skills in detection work to start to fill in for some of Hemi’s duties. As Freya begins her training to act as Hemi’s successor, she may be seen with Lt. Stuart more and more once campus life begins again in the near future. Though this does not mean that Hemi’s presence will not be forgotten, especially around the police station as Lt. Stuart jokingly mentioned that he probably will still be at the station even if he retires because he loves his work and the people that make up the Stockton Police Department.
And if he does not end up going to work after his retirement is finalized, Stuart noted that he will enjoy splashing about on the beach, running through the woods, and of course getting some well deserved rest on Lt. Stuart’s couch with some of his favorite snacks nearby. Lt. Stuart and Hemi have done amazing work for Stockton University at large. For some it may feel surreal to have the pair parted at work once Hemi has fully retired. For other members of the community, he has been seen as a cornerstone of the institute. For those he has saved, he is an unsung hero at times since he has no idea how much he has helped them. Even students who have just had a bad day have found a good laugh or smile from his simple shenanigans, or they have found a way to hold back tears on exceptionally rough days by being able to pet him. Hemi’s retirement is nowhere near the end for the K-9 Unit on campus as his legacy will continue on as Freya has some rather large paw prints to fill.
To keep up with Freya's training journey, stay tuned for upcoming editions of The Argo. www.stocktonargo.com
The Argo April 13, 2020
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AUGUST 22, 2019
VOL. 29
SCIENCE AND BUSINESS MEET IN NEW GRADUATE PROGRAMS UNIVERSITY RELATIONS AND MARKETING FOR THE ARGO
Galloway, N.J. _ Stockton University’s Office of Graduate Studies is offering two new graduate programs that blend science with business. The two new programs, which begin in the fall, are designed to enhance the skills of working professionals in the health care and environmental fields. The new specialized Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration and Leadership targets professionals in the healthcare industry including hospitals, medical practices,
Wave monitoring in Aty by the Stockton University Coastal Research Center. Photo courtesy of Stockton University.
pharmaceutical companies, and insurance companies. It is the first such program in South Jersey.
This executive-style, weekend MBA program will accommodate the schedules of working practitioners. Students will participate in monthly Saturday meetings and hybrid online courses to supplement in-person gatherings.The new Coastal Zone Management program offers the option of a graduate certificate, Professional Science Master’s and research Master of Science. Courses will train working professionals in the management of complex problems in the coastal zone such as climate change, sea level rise, coastal ocean and shore protection.
The program will prepare coastal managers and scientists to provide expertise to governmental and nongovernmental organizations and businesses.“The Coastal Zone Management program builds on the strength of Stockton’s Marine and Environmental Science programs and the Stockton Coastal Research Center in providing education and research in the coastal zone,” said Peter Straub, dean of Stockton’s School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.“These programs blend business and science courses to benefit professionals who need to know and understand the business side of being a leader in the environmental and coastal zone fields,” said Stockton’s Associate Director of Graduate
Programs Tara Williams.Stockton offers 16 master degree programs, including counseling, social work, criminal justice, education, and healthcare fields, plus four doctoral programs and post-graduate certificates in specialized fields.Applications are still being accepted for fall 2020. More information about graduate programs at Stockton is online at stockton.edu/graduate. Click on the “Visit” link at the top of the page for dates and times of the virtual information sessions.
The Argo April 13, 2020
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Got Stockton stories to share? Send them to stockton.edu/stories
Original art? Photography? Do you want to get paid for your creativity? Submit to The Argo! Send submissions to [email protected] The Argo April 13, 2020
"TIGER KING" DOCUSERIES TAKES OVER NETFLIX
Above: Joe Exotic with tiger. Photo courtesy of Variety.com. JOSEF GIBBS FOR THE ARGO
Close your eyes, think of your last trip to a zoo, and try to recall how mundane of an experience the zoo actually is. Now, what if I told you a gay, gun-toting, mullet-wearing zoo owner from the less-than-glamorous state of Oklahoma has captivated the entire country? Sounds just a tad far-fetched and honestly unbelievable. Well, start believing, because the limited 8 part docuseries, "Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness," has taken the streaming world by storm.
It's been the number one watched segment on Netflix's top 10 for an unprecedented 3 weeks, yielding over 30 million viewers in its first 10 days. This is a spoiler-free article, but I will tell you to prepare for the unexpected at every turn. Overall, "Tiger King" is a blast. Netflix released the eighth installment to the series on Sunday, April 12, featuring Joel McHale and interviews from the show's various subjects, mulling over the overwhelming success of the series.
The series sets out to profile 3 big cat enthusiasts, but the "Tiger King," himself — Joe "Exotic" — steals the show singlehandedly. From murder plots, accidental suicides, politics, scandal, music, and love, you almost forget the show documents the biggest majestic cats in the world. And the catch is, everything in the docuseries really happened, and to up the stakes, it all happened within the last 5 years. Nothing you have ever watched could prepare you for the whirlwind "Tiger King" takes you through. There are no good guys in the show, but I guarantee you will find yourself rooting for someone besides the tigers. From mysterious cults, betrayal, and country music, this series keeps its viewers glued to their seats.
The Argo April 13, 2020
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UPDATE FROM STOCKTON ABOUT COVID-19
COVID-19 Coronavirus Update (April 13, 2020--4:15 p.m.)
This is a rapidly evolving situation and the University will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Effective April 13, late night service on the Atlantic City shuttles has been suspended. The final departure from each campus will be at 9 p.m. weekdays and 9:15 p.m. on weekends. The remainder of the schedule will not change, and can be found here.
The Office of Human Resources offers online Training Options for Stockton Employees. This week's online training spotlight focuses on Communication Styles and Emotional Intelligence eLearning opportunities through the Employee Assistance Program linked at Emotional Intelligence for Success, Effective Communication and Communication Skills for Collaboration.
They are available using Adobe Flash and work best with Internet Explorer 11 and Mozilla Firefox.If you have been tested for COVID-19 in any jurisdiction, please contact Stockton at [email protected] as soon as possible.
You do not need to wait for results. This will greatly assist our efforts in tracking the people in our community who have been impacted.
Note from the Editors: For more information about Stockton's response to the COVID-19 outbreak, visit their website at stockton.edu
The Argo April 13, 2020
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