Performance artist Guillermo Gómez–Peña comes to NSU
On Sept. 22 and 23, the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences (FCAS) will host two events featuring activist, artist and educator Gómez–Peña as part of the 2011-2012 Distinguished Speakers series. The events include an audio-visual lecture entitled “Multiple Journeys: The Life and Work of Gómez-Peña” and “Strange Democracy: Border Wars.” Admission is free but tickets are required. Tickets are available in the Office of the Dean of FCAS on the 2nd floor of the Mailman–Hollywood building. The Distinguished Speakers series host prominent leaders in their fields on campus each year.
NSU launches its annual Biggest Loser challenge
Applications for the Biggest Loser challenge will be accepted until Sept. 30. Participants in the 16–week program sponsored by the Office of Campus Recreation take part in rigorous daily exercise. The program was started at NSU in 2007. Participants must be NSU students or employees. Interested persons can complete an application at http://www.rec.nova.edu/biggestloser/register.html.
RecPlex offers self-awareness course
Starting Sept. 26 the NSU RecPlex will feature a six–week course in physical fitness and skill performance. The group will meet once a week every Monday at 8 p.m. The cost is $60 per student/member and $75 per non-members. For more information contact Mike Prociuk at procuik@nova.edu.
Court rules that single spank of the buttock not unlawful
On Sept. 16, in Tallahassee, a three-judge panel of the 1st District of Appeal overturned an injunction against a father who was accused of child abuse by his ex–wife for spanking their 14–year–old daughter on the buttocks with his hand. The father, who was only identified as G.C., said the child was being disrespectful and defiant. The judges ruled that the punishment was compliant with common law and a 2002 Florida Supreme Court ruling that reasonable and non-excessive corporal punishment can be used as a defense against child abuse charges.
Puerto Rican teen stabs classmates with hypodermic needle
On Sept. 15, a 14–year–old girl stabbed 37 classmates with a hypodermic needle on the playground of Jose De Arroyo middle school in Arroyo, Puerto Rico. Puerto Rican health authorities are investigating whether the needle was contaminated. Students who were stabbed were tested for HIV and hepatitis C and given preventative medication. No criminal charges were filed against the attacker. However, she was suspended. School authorities and social workers are interviewing her to determine motive for the attack.
