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The UpZete - All Your News in Tau Kappa Phi Volume 3 Issue 03
March 15, 2007

Brother

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This Month >>
  • From Greg McElroy, Phi Alpha CXXI
  • Kevin Ruf, Iota/Berkeley '84 debut's on COMEDY CENTRAL!
  • From Dave's Desk: PLAN ON LINCOLN
  • Upcoming Events
  • Update - 3 Zete undergrads lobbying Congress!
  • Top 10 Resume Killers
  • Congratulations Washington Scholars Summer Class!
  • ZETA PSI IS HIRING!!
  • Phi Profile: Wes Steschner, U. of MD/Phi Epsilon '08
  • Alumni Profile: Evan Shapiro, Upsilon Mu/UMASS-Amherst '89
  • Alumni Notes: Zetes meet in Puerto Vallarta

  • Kevin Ruf, Iota/Berkeley '84 debut's on COMEDY CENTRAL!
    Kevin Ruf

    Last night, Zeta Psi' own Kevin Ruf, Iota '84, achieved an amazing milestone - premiering his own series on Comedy Central! Kevin is one of the creators, writers, producers, and stars of "Halfway Home". Join us in congratulating Kevin, and catch his show every Wednesday night at 10:30 PM on Comedy Central - right after South Park

    Kevin is a comic and writer based in Los Angeles. He is an alumni of the Groundlings Improv main company where he performed for nearly ten years. Kevin grew up in Saratoga, CA before attending Berkeley where he co-wrote the comedy "The Generic Play" about a professional ping-pong player in the "Rocky" mode. The success of that comedy and the ensuing run in San Francisco (with audiences in excess of three people on some nights) was the beginning of Kevin's comedy career.

    Kevin's film credits include Fun with Dick and Jane, Eulogy, I'll Be You and The Curve. His numerous television appearances include roles on Seinfeld, Friends, According to Jim, Cedric the Entertainer Presents, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Significant Others, Talk Soup and Primetime Live. He has written and performed three one-man shows including "Late Sleeper" and "Small Claims," the latter based on his life as a comic/lawyer. In 2006, Kevin argued and won a unanimous decision in the California Supreme court. Seriously.

    Get out of jail free card? Not on COMEDY CENTRAL! First stop is "Halfway Home," an improvised half-hour show featuring the daily exploits of five ex-cons living together in a residential rehab facility. The series premiered on Wednesday, March 14 at 10:30 p.m. (in the coveted spot after South Park).

    Kevin's new show, "Halfway Home", welcomes viewers to Crenshaw House, where the L.A. Bureau of Prisons houses some of its most notorious semi-hardened parolees. Living together under one roof, "Halfway Home's" residents must learn to come to terms with each other and live on the straight-and-narrow under the semi- watchful eye of their county-approved supervisor.

    The cast features Kevin Ruf ("Fun with Dick and Jane," Groundlings member), the house supervisor who attempts to rehabilitate the misfit parolees including Oscar Nunez ("The Office," "Reno 911!"), a male prostitute who uses sex to get what he desires; Jordan Black ("Punk'd," "Mad TV"), a wanna-be terrorist who is really just a rich kid from California; Regan Burns ("Oblivious," "The Movie Club") the house narc who has an uncontrollable obsession with fire; Jessica Makinson ("Joe Schmo 2," "Trigger Happy TV"), a drug trafficker who can't give up her old habits and Octavia Spencer ("Coach Carter," "Spiderman"), an armed robbery convict.

    The volatile mix of personalities together with the mandatory 24/7 supervision creates the perfect setting for unpredictable comedic mayhem. In the premiere episode, one of the residents smells something suspicious in the middle of the night and Kenny, the house supervisor, forces the parolees to take drug tests with hilarious results. Future episodes feature the parolees attempting self-reliance training during an excursion in the wilderness and the residents being asked to '"scare straight" a mammoth-sized juvenile delinquent.

    Find out more about the show by clicking on the picture above, or send your congratulations to Kevin by clicking below!


    From Dave's Desk: PLAN ON LINCOLN
    Hunter

    This year Zeta Psi is hosting its annual convention in Lincoln, Nebraska from August 15 to August 19, 2007. I’d like to encourage everyone to attend. Our host chapter, the Omicron at Nebraska Wesleyan University, has great events planned and the week promises to be filled with fun and camaraderie.

    I’ve visited Lincoln on two occasions - once for the 1996 convention and once this past fall to visit the chapter and catch the Texas Longhorns plan the Nebraska Cornhuskers in football. I had a great time each visit. The 1996 convention featured fun, intimate events around town and at the Zete House. And of course I enjoyed the local entertainment of the Haymaker District and “O Street” during both trips.

    Official events planned for the convention this year include a dinner at the Cornhusker Football Stadium Club, dinner and entertainment in the Haymaker district, and a gathering at the Zete House. The Embassy Suites Lincoln will serve as our host hotel. The hotel sits in downtown Lincoln on the border of the University of Nebraska campus, two blocks from the Haymaker District and one block from O Street. As will all Embassy Suites, registered guests receive a complimentary full breakfast and a complimentary nightly beverage reception in the lobby.

    You’ll find Lincoln to be a fun and hospitable town, which you will thoroughly enjoy. Combined with the enjoyment of Zete Brotherhood this year’s convention looks to be one you should not miss. I hope to see you in Lincoln!


    Upcoming Events
    Badge of Zeta Psi

    LOS ANGELES ALUMNI EVENT TODAY!
    Join Zeta Psi staffer Dan Backer '99 and the LA-area Alumni at Karl Strauss Brewery Garden, at Universal CityWalk, Central Courtyard from 6 PM to 8 PM. (CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS)

    CLEVELAND LTI & ALUMNI HAPPY HOUR AND CAVALIERS/KNICKS GAME!
    Join us next Friday, 03/23 at the Nu Chapter House from 5 - 7 PM for an alumni happy hour followed by a trip to see the NY Knicks take on the Cleveland Cavaliers! Join Phi Alpha Greg McElroy, Dave Hunter, and visiting Zete undergrads from throughout the Midwest attending Saturday's LTI,CLICK HERE to RSVP by Monday, 3/19.

    Washington, DC Elders Lawyers & Lobbyists Luncheon
    Wednesday, April 18th, from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM at Butterfield 9 restaurant in the heart of downtown DC. RSVP and details TBA soon on the DC elders website, or reply to this email for more info!

    JUNE 1 - 3, FOUNDERS DAY 2007 EVENTS
    We're planning several big events throughout the US for our upcoming 160th Anniversary in NYC, Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles, and other cities for this year's Founder's Day/weekend events. More details SOON!


    Update - 3 Zete undergrads lobbying Congress!

    There have been a dozen fires in the last year at fraternity houses - destroying properties and taking lives. Zeta Psi has been fortunate that none of those fires was at one of our houses and that no Zete's have been hurt. YET.

    LAST MONTH, we told you how that Zete Undergrads will participate in the annual North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) Congressional Lobbying program April 15 – 18 as part of the Fraternal Caucus and GREEKPAC's efforts to pass the Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act (CHIA).

    The CHIA will allow tax-deductible gifts to be used towards critical fire-safety improvements for our student housing - ending the discriminatory tax laws that directly limit our – and every fraternity’s - ability to install vital, life saving equipment.

    THIS MONTH, we're proud to announce our 3 undergraduate student lobbyists: Jigar Ghandi, from our soon to be Chartered Binghamton University/Mu Pi Chapter. Alexander Nohr, from our Nebraska Wesleyan University/Omicron Chapter - a school that had a fatal fire at another fraternity house in the Fall. Mike Bosworth, from our Tulane University/Beta Tau Chapter, which saw a spat of suspicious and destructive fires at other fraternity houses over the New Years break.

    In addition to their time lobbying on the Hill, these Zete undergrads will join the DC Elders Lawyers and Lobbyists Luncheon at the end of the program on Wednesday, April 18th, at 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM at Butterfield 9 restaurant in downtown DC - Details TBA on the DC Elders website.

    WHAT CAN YOU DO? Take a moment to register at the fraternal caucus website (by clicking below) to send three letters from your desktop to your Senators and Congressperson. This quick and easy effort by you helps demonstrate the NATION- WIDE support for the CHIA. It takes 5 minutes of your time but can help save a life!


    Top 10 Resume Killers

    Forwarded by Past Phi Alpha Admiral James J. Carey:

    "This has some of the most common sense for new job seekers of many of the bloviating articles I've read on the subject. I suggest you save it and share it with guys who are beginning their job search. I have watched our guys in the past make every one of the mistakes listed. Here's our chance to help."

    CLICK HERE TO READ MORE (article from AOL & CareerBuilder.com)


    Congratulations Washington Scholars Summer Class!
    WSFP banner

    The Washington Scholars Fellowship Program (WSFP) selection process was extremely difficult for this summer’s class with close to 60 applicants competing for 20 positions. Those selected will have the chance to influence our nation’s laws, trading policies, medical research, and engineering practices. They will also experience the insider world of Washington D.C., meet dignitaries, and attend elite social events.

    The growth of our program has been tremendous this year, and we hope to experience similar growth next year.

    We would like to extend congratulations to the following 20 individuals for their selection into the summer 2007 class, with a special congratulations to our latest Canadian Scholars – insuring the WSFP remains an international program:

    Chris Pistritto, Anand Das, Dylan Henry, Rob Trombley, Mike Zook, Jason Nguyen, Aaron Deitz, Jim Denny, John Renninger, Sammy Shibatu, John Vehmeyer, Richard Stirling, AJ Fluher, Ian Bomberg, Matt Davies, Richard Verret, Steven Own, Alexander Sharif, Alexander Naito, and Rahul Kulkarni.

    The schools represented this summer include: UConn, Seton Hall, McGill, Michigan, Maryland, Washington, Toronto, Illinois, Tulane, Penn State, Tufts, UMass, Cooper Union, UCLA, NYU, Lafayette, and Tufts.

    Thank you all for your interest in the program! We will begin accepting applications for the fall program shortly.


    ZETA PSI IS HIRING!!

    Zeta Psi now has a job opening for a traveling consultant beginning June 1, 2007. The job is open to any recent or soon to be graduate who is a member of Zeta Psi Fraternity. The job entails traveling to various Zete chapters during the school year and providing advice and guidance to those chapters. The position also entails supporting and attending the annual convention, participating in various Leadership Training Seminars, attending industry seminars, and maintaining contact with keep chapter officers. The job is based out of the Zeta Psi IHQ in Pearl River, New York. Applicants must have experience serving in various chapter offices and have strong recruitment and leadership abilities. Applicant must have a good driving record and be able to provide a personal automobile and auto insurance. Salary is entry-level and compensation includes health insurance and housing in Pearl River. Travel expenses and a mileage reimbursement are paid. If interested please send a resume with fraternity experience detailed to Dave Hunter by clicking below.

    On a personal note, those of us who do now or have in the past traveled for Zeta Psi can attest to this - there is no more unique and amazing an experience one can have then being part of the Zeta Psi staff and traveling throughout North America to visit with our Brothers, helping strengthen & serve our active chapters and meet some of our 20,000+ alumni!


    Phi Profile: Wes Steschner, U. of MD/Phi Epsilon '08
    Wes from UMD 2

    Profile by John Herzog, Alpha Epsilon/Illinois '07

    As members of Zeta Psi, we are all presented with chances to have fun, while becoming leaders in both our houses and communities. Wes Steschner, current phi of the Maryland chapter is an example of somebody who has taken full advantage of both these opportunities. Thanks to his tireless efforts, he has helped improved the Phi Epsilon chapter for its members and community, while creating life long memories and developing his skills for a limitless future.

    Wes is a junior at the University of Maryland, and initiated in to Zeta Psi in the fall of his freshman year. As he looks back at his decision to join now, he had no idea of the significance Zeta Psi would play in his college career. “At first, I liked Zeta Psi because I got along with the guys really well.” Wes said. "I just liked hanging out. I didn't realize how many benefits this organization could offer me, but I've learned a lot since my freshman year."

    Since then, Wes emerged as an outstanding leader in his chapter and college community. In two years, Wes has attended two Zeta Psi conventions and was elected Phi of his chapter. During his term, Wes has strengthened the chapter internally and increased its positive impact on the college campus. One reason for such drastic results is Wes's apparent enthusiasm for the work he's doing.

    "This is really an exciting time of year for us." he explained. "We just finished our initiation weekend, and now have eleven new members. This is our largest class in four years and I believe they all have enormous potential."

    In addition to gaining new members, Wes makes sure his brothers engage in many fun activities to keep their brotherhood strong, including actives vs. alumni softball games and a golf tournament for ZeteKidz scheduled for April 29.

    Under Wes's guidance, the chapter has continued to improve its already great reputation in the community. Each year, Zetes at the University of Maryland partake in many philanthropic events. Wes explains that the most noteworthy is the relay for life which takes place each Spring. It is a twelve hour walkathon on campus that raises thousands of dollars to support cancer research.

    While a diligent worker, Wes has also had his share of fun as a Zete undergraduate. He believes his two conventions are some of his most memorable times as a Zete. "I really enjoy making friends with like minded people across the country." he said. "It feels good to have a bond with them and talk about experiences with one another."

    Wes's accomplishments have had a drastic and positive impact on the unity and reputation of the Phi Epsilon chapter. He also believes his experiences as president will help him achieve his future goal of becoming a business manager. Although he is uncertain of what he wants to manage, Wes showed a high level of determination and motivation while talking about the future.

    "I'm not sure exactly where I want to work or what I want to manage yet." Wes stated. "I still have a year left of school. But no matter what job I get, I'm willing to do whatever it takes and climb my way to the top." With an attitude like that, there is no doubt that Wes Steschner will be part of the next successful generation of Zetes!


    Alumni Profile: Evan Shapiro, Upsilon Mu/UMASS-Amherst '89
    Evan Shapiro

    Profile by Rob Trombley, Xi/Michigan '05

    As a freshman entering the University of Massachusetts, Evan Shapiro was looking for a Fraternity that fit him. His dad was a Greek and he knew he wanted that experience, so he checked many different places out. I was the guys at Zete drew that him in because they were down to earth (and he also liked the girls that were there!).

    His best memories of Zeta Psi involve the house. Whether playing Wales Tales, watching Star Trek, or drawing on peoples faces in the basement after a party, Zete was a blast. The culture and community he found there made him never want to leave. It was everything he ever wanted in a house. He also has fond memories of his big brother David “Fink” Finkelstein (a future Chapter Advisor at Illinois), who he describes as “a brilliant smart ass.” David not only taught him about the fraternity, but he taught him a lot about life.

    Evan’s experience in Zeta Psi continues help him today. Zeta Psi helped him to learn how to deal with people - learning to find things he has in common with others to break down barriers. Evan has found ways to get along with people that he never thought he could, and these skills are extremely helpful in his job where he has to network and meet many different people.

    Zeta Psi prides itself on having well-rounded members in many different fields, and Evan certainly fits this mold. He is currently the VP of the Independent Film Channel. He is responsible for their programming, buying films, marketing, and producing films and TV shows. He gets to travel to all the major film festivals from Sundance to Cannes. Evan says he always wanted to work in the arts, and never gave up on his dream. He now says that this job is his dream, and he would not give it up for anything.

    And Evan has certainly given back to the fraternity that helped him on the road to achieving those dreams. Evan is a longtime, loyal donor to his own Upsilon Mu Chapter and most recently arranged to host the first Wall Street Scholar Intern (Matt Pirkowski) last Summer, and a new intern this coming summer!


    Alumni Notes: Zetes meet in Puerto Vallarta
    Grant and Andy

    Neither knew the other before meeting at a destination wedding of mutual friends in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in December, 2006. "Over a few margaritas, Scott Molinaroli (Psi Epsilon '93) mentioned that he went to Dartmouth, and I knew he must have been a Zete", said Grant Held (Kappa, '89). The two Zetes shared stories about their college days in New England and celebrated in true Zeta Psi style.

    Grant recently got engaged and he and his fiance Allison (Harvard '91) are planning a summer '07 wedding. Scott received his M.B.A from Stanford where he was a classmate of Brian Moloney, Eta '93.

    Pictured Left: Grant Held, Kappa '89 and Scott Molinaroli, Psi Epsilon '93


    From Greg McElroy, Phi Alpha CXXI
    McElroy Phi Alpha

    To my Fellow Zetes on The Ides of March:

    Last month I commented on the theme of love, as it coincided with Valentine’s Day. I received a number of emails commenting warmly on my message, and to those who had read that column; I truly feel the love that Zeta Psi imbues in most of us. To that end, I will relate on some of my, at times, obscure references to our Fraternity in the world of entertainment and the arts.

    To be candid, Zeta Psi has not had a large heritage of “famous” people in the worlds of entertainment, the arts, athletics and even politics. Sure we can claim some pretty high-ranking figures in the latter two categories: how about the greatest football player of all time (Red Grange of our Illinois chapter), or a long stint of political hierarchy in the state of California with two consecutive Zete governors serving in recent years (Pete Wilson of Yale and Gray Davis of Stanford)?

    Zeta Psi has certainly enjoyed fame and fortune far beyond its relatively small size in the world of business and other professional endeavors. The list of Fortune 500 CEOs who have been and still are Zetes would take a much longer column than UpZete Editor Dan Backer would allow. Suffice it to say, Zeta Psi alumni have done very well in climbing the corporate ladders of American and Canadian businesses throughout our history.

    But what of the world of entertainment? Long before the vast majority of UpZete readers were born - or even their parents - Zeta Psi alumnus Joe E. Brown of our UCLA chapter was one of the most famous film and radio comedic entertainers of the first half of the 20th century - and a very good Zete. A bit after Joe’s time, but generally in his era, Zeta Psi was graced with hugely popular singing star (referred to as a “crooner” in his day) Lanny Ross, a terrific Zete from Yale, whom I met several times at New York Zete functions in my early years as Executive Director.

    In recent years we have seen successful careers in entertainment by several Zetes who proudly proclaim their Zete membership including TV and film star Dean Cain of Princeton (aka SUPERMAN), mega- producer Dick Wolf of Penn (of Law and Order fame), and corporate financial wizard Mark Badagliacca of Cornell. I have not had the pleasure of personally meeting Brothers Cain or Wolf, but I know Brother “Bags”, as he has often been called, and have been privileged to call him a friend for over three decades.

    Mark has been the CFO of Paramount Studios for several years, having joined the corporate finance department of Paramount when he graduated from Harvard Business School and worked in his native New York for a number of years. The company closed its New York office and set up all administrative operations in Los Angeles in the 1980s, where Mark has been since. No Paramount Picture gets the go- ahead to be shot and financed without going through Mark’s office, and that is a lot of responsibility for anyone, to be sure. Though Mark and I have spent many good times together as brothers over the years, there’s one I remember vividly. A few years ago we were having lunch at the Paramount commissary on the studio lot, when we were greeted by the then-CEO of Paramount, Sherry Lansing, who took the time to come say hello to Mark and me. When she received her lifetime achievement award at this year’s Oscars, my thoughts were with Mark and his great career at Paramount.

    There are doubtless many other Zete luminaries in the entertainment world and many more to come!

    With my personal best wishes in Tau Kappa Phi,

    Greg McElroy, Phi Alpha CXXI

    Email Greg!
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