the
To r c h
The independent student newspaper of St. John’s University
VOL 93: 14 January 27, 2016 torchonline.com
Rollin’ on out: University bans hoverboards on campus
LORAINA LONDON-CALDERON Staff Writer
“Hoverboards” have recently been banned from St. John’s University due to safety hazards, as well as problems that have been caused by their use in buildings and around campus, according to an email sent out through Student Affairs. The hoverboard was first introduced to the general public in late 2015. It serves as a self-balancing twowheeled board that accelerates and stops when you shift your weight. The boards became a problem when lithium ion batteries inside the product began to cause fires around the country, due to a lack of charging with regular electricity outlets. Top airlines such as United Airlines, American and British Airways prohibited hoverboards from appear-
ing on flights, according to the New York Daily News. In New York City, the popular item was banned in late 2015 not only due to their safety hazards, but also because they are motorized vehicles that cannot be registered by the DMV. Access to hover boards is simple; they don’t require insurance or a license to operate.
Starting in 2016, safety laws were passed around on the country, ranging from helmet enforcement to age restriction. Eventually, hoverboards were entirely prohibited. New York City happened to be one of the places where the board is now illegal to ride. Failure to adhere to the prohibition can result in a $200 fine.
PHOTO/FLICKR COMMONS
The campus is considered private property even within New York City limits, therefore the University was able to prohibit hoverboards separately from the state. In banning the board, St. John’s claims they are trying to keep its students safe by banning their use from campus. Continued on page 3
2016 Oscars set to premiere amidst racial controversy
JOANNA CORRIELUS Staff Writer
After an all-white list of 2016 Academy Awards nominees were announced for the second consecutive year, the hashtag #oscarssowhite ignited a firestorm on social media. Those noticeably absent from the Best
Actor category included veteran actor Will Smith for his lead role in “Concussion,” young Hollywood actor Michael B. Jordan for his role in “Creed,” and actor Idris Elba for “Beasts of No Nation.” Critically acclaimed box office hit “Straight Outta Compton” was also left off the list when films were considered for the Best Picture category.
Sports
However, its screenwriters, Jonathan Herman and Andrea Berloff, both of whom are white, were nominated for Best Screenplay. As soon as the nominees for the Academy Awards were announced, social media users, political activists, and celebrities alike were in an uproar over the continuous lack of African-American
Entertainment
recognition in Hollywood. To make matters even more complicated, comedian Chris Rock will be hosting the award show on Feb. 28, and many people have called on him to quit. Continued on page 4
Politics
What you missed over winter break
Top 10 Movies of 2015
Trump receiving support from palin
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The Torch is the official student newspaper of St. John’s University. The Torch is written, edited, designed and produced by students of the University. All contents are the sole responsibility of the editors and the editorial board and do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, faculty or students of St. John’s University unless specifically stated.
To contact the Torch by mail: The Torch, St. John’s University 8000 Utopia Parkway Queens, NY 11439
The Torch is typically published on Wednesdays and publishes approximately 20 issues throughout the academic year. Copies are distributed for free on campus and through mail subscriptions.
A peaceful post-snowstorm scene captured by General Manager Cheyanne Gonzales in her backyard.
Interested in joining the Torch? Opportunities for writing, editing, photography and business are open. Email our section editors for more details: torchnews@gmail.com torchopinion@gmail.com torchfeatures@gmail.com torchent@gmail.com torchsports@gmail.com torchphoto@gmail.com designs.torch@gmail.com torchcopydesk@gmail.com
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SJU bans hoverboards as devices declared unsafe Prohibited use of motor object draws mixed responses
continued from page 1
“Information regarding device safety, injuries associated with using the devices, fire hazards while charging devices, and NYC law caused us to think about the best interest and the safety of our University community,” said Jackie Lochrie, associate dean for student services, in an email interview. Freshman Cheyenne Engstrom believes the University decision to ban the hoverboards was a smart one, calling the product a “fad.”
“Banning them sped up the process because it was an inconvenience to everyone,” she said. However, freshman Gary Lauritano had already purchased a hoverboard when the university announced their conclusion. “I feel like I just spent $400 to not be able to ride it on campus,” he said. “I understand it was a safety issue, but I would have liked to have been notified before I went out and bought one.” The University’s main concern was that students could cause a fire or ride them out of buildings during times of emergency, not only causing issues for themselves but
others as well. When Lochrie was asked if the University would ever consider possibly changing the rules to having students wear helmets and/or adding areas for designated use, she replied that it “would only meet some of the concern.” Freshman Danielle Probst, who previously owned a hoverboard, agrees with the school’s reasoning for the banning of the item. “Honestly, I thought it was a smart decision for the school to do that,” she said. “Nobody wants to have to leave the building at 3 a.m. because someone's hoverboard blew up. That's why I sold it.
Personally, I think they're not worth the danger.” According to Lochrie, the University has not received any complaints about board-use in buildings before the new rule was put into action, or any backlash from placing the prohibition on campus. “Students can make arrangements to mail their device home through the University mailroom,” said Lochrie. “Public Safety as well as administration simply wants to ensure the safety of all students at all times and when the boards began to threaten that, they combined decided it was time for them to go.”
Oscar controversy ellicits response from students
continued from page 1
One of the many celebrities to take a public stance against the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was actress Jada Pinkett-Smith. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Pinkett-Smith posted a video on Facebook, in which she renounced the Oscars, going so far as to say that she would be boycotting the event. She also added in her video that although the Academy has the right to nominate whomever they choose, she believes that it is time for African-Americans and other people of color to start using their resources to create programs that acknowledge them. While many celebrities have sided with Pinkett-Smith, including her husband Will Smith and actor, director, producer and honorary Oscar recipient Spike Lee, others have also criticized her, believing that Pinkett-Smith is only speaking out because her husband was not nominated. One of Pinkett-Smith’s biggest critics happened to be her husband’s former costar on the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” Janet Hubert. Hubert posted a video on social media in which she blasted the Smiths’, stating, “You have a huge production company that you only produce [for] your friends and family and yourself. So, you are a part of Hollywood, you are part of the system that is unfair to other actors. So get real.” Just like Hubert, St. John’s junior David Rosario doesn’t agree with Pinkett-Smith and other celebrities who plan to boycott the Oscar festivities. “I think there were several strong performances given by black actors in films like ‘Beasts of No Nation,’ ‘Creed’ and ‘Straight Outta Compton’ that were overlooked by the Academy this year,” said Rosario. “However, I don't think this is a matter of them not wanting to recognize these actors and actresses. Film is a subjective art form and they have the right to nominate whoever they think is worthy of
PHOTO/FLICKRCREATIVECOMMONS
Jada Pinkett-Smith and Spike Lee both announced their decisions to boycott the 2016 Oscars after an all-white list of nominees was presented.
the accolades.” “They've recognized actors and filmmakers of color in the past. It just so happens that this year, the performances that the Academy voters deemed worthy of recognition came from white actors. We might disagree with the list of nominees, but that's not reason enough to demand boycotts,” Rosario continued. Junior Nathalie Tigua also shared the same sentiments as both Hubert and Rosario. “I think that Jada Pinkett-Smith is only doing this because of Will and it’s a shame because his performance in ‘Concussion’ wasn’t great,” said Tigua. “His accent made me want to laugh and the movie isn’t even a comedy.” The lack of diversity amongst Oscar nominees has re-opened dialogue about the racial makeup of the Academy members, who are responsible for the nominations. According to a study conducted by the Los Angeles Times in 2012, of the 5,765
voting members of the Academy, 94% are white and 77% are male. In addition, the voting members had a median age of 62 years old. Due to the mounting controversy, the Board of Governors, under the leadership of Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs, an African-American woman, unanimously voted on Thursday night to pass initiatives that would double the number of women and diverse members of the Academy by 2020. Academy officials released a statement on their website on Friday detailing how they plan on achieving this goal. In the statement, the Board of Governors announced that beginning later this year, every new member of the Academy will be eligible to vote for 10 years. If that member has been active in motion pictures during those 10 years, then they’ll be eligible to vote for another 10 years. After three 10 year-terms, or if they’ve been nominated for an Oscar, members will receive lifetime voting rights. These new standards will also be applied retroactively
to current members. For members who do not qualify for active status, they will be moved to emeritus status. These members will not have to pay dues and will still be able to enjoy all the privileges as a member of the Academy, except for voting. In addition, the Academy will also be launching a global campaign to identify and recruit qualified new members who represent greater diversity. The Academy will also be taking immediate action to diversify the Board of Governors by creating three new governor seats that will be nominated by the President for three-year terms and confirmed by the Board. “The Academy is going to lead and not wait for the industry to catch up,” said Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs. “These new measures regarding governance and voting will have an immediate impact and begin the process of significantly changing our membership composition.”
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orch briefs
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Outbreak of Zika virus continues to spread
Bill Cosby arrested on long-awaited charge
PHOTO/FLICKRCREATIVECOMMONS
The Zika Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that is being linked to numerous pregnancy deficiencies.
LIVIA PAULA Features Editor
PHOTO/FLICKRCREATIVECOMMONS
Bill Cosby was arrested on a second-degree aggravated indecent assault charge in late December.
ANABELLE MADHO Staff Writer Years after allegations arose in the public eye, 78-year-old comedian Bill Cosby was charged with sexual assault in a case over a decade old. This is the first time Cosby has been charged, despite the allegations made from over 50 other women. The once comedian and television icon has been charged with second-degree aggravated indecent assault, according to USA Today. Sophomore Ariana Ureña believes that justice is finally being served for Cosby’s many alleged victims. “It's justice because often times men and women are taught to be quiet about the sexual assault that they face,” she said. And it teaches them that, if they are honest, with time the person who has caused their hurt and suffering can be put behind bars.” Cosby is indicted for the sexual assault and drugging of Andrea Constand. The alleged incident occurred after she visited his Philadelphia home in 2004. According to CNN, she was the first accuser to publicly speak up. Investigators filed an affi-
davit, which determined Cosby intended to “incapacitate" Constand by giving her a variety of pills and alcohol. He was arraigned in a Pennsylvania courthouse in late December. After a ten-minute long hearing, Cosby then proceeded to Cheltenham Police Department for booking. Since his arraignment, junior Samantha MacDonald’s view of the comedian has changed entirely. “I used to love watching ‘The Cosby Show’ as a kid, so hearing about these allegations and learning that he was arrested is shocking,” she said. “Now, part of my childhood is ruined.” Cosby pleaded not guilty and was released after posting a one million dollar bail bond. CNN states that prosecutors in 2005 dismissed to file charges due to an insufficient amount of evidence. Now, after heavy observation of the 2004 evidence, prosecutors are going forward with the charges. Ureña agrees with the decision. “That helps them feel a bit safer in their day-to-day lives,” she said. “They know they won't be attacked and others won't be attacked.”
Latin American and Caribbean countries have been greatly affected by an infection known as the Zika virus, which is being transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Millions of people have been infected; and according to ABC News, the virus has made its way into the U.S. as 19 residents were diagnosed with the virus in January after traveling abroad. The Zika virus was first discovered in the Zika forest in Uganda in 1947 and was mostly common in African and Asian countries, until now. The Guardian reports that the Zika may have been brought to Brazil from a tourist during the 2014 World Cup or an international canoeing event that same year. The symptoms of those infected are mild and include fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes; it usually does not require hospitalization. According to the NYT, only one of five people infected develops these symptoms. The main concern surfaced after the virus was linked to a rare condition known as microcephaly, where newborn babies are born with small heads and severe brain damage. According to the NYT, scientists noticed the relationship between the virus and the condition as nearly 4,000 babies were reportedly born with microcephaly in Brazil since May 2015. Other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean also reported an outstanding number of microcephaly cases. Governments and health officials from affected countries such as Brazil, Colombia and Jamaica are advising women to delay pregnancy, the NYT reported. In El Salvador, health officials are warning women against
pregnancy until 2018. According to Reuters, the U.S. had its first microcephaly case linked to the virus in Oahu, Hawaii in mid-January. The mother was living in Brazil since May 2015, and the baby was “likely infected in the womb.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (C.D.C) has warned pregnant women not to travel to countries where the Zika virus has spread substantially. The C.D.C’s travel alert applies to Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela and Puerto Rico. St. John’s junior Chloe Gage said that this is “such a heavy topic” to talk about due to its seriousness. “It’s so sad that these mothers and their families cannot celebrate the joy of bringing new life into the world,” she said. The Zika virus has also been linked to another rare condition known as Guillian-Barré, a nerve disorder that can cause paralysis and put victims on life-support. It is being investigated whether the Zika virus outbreak is to blame for the rapid rise in the numbers of Guillian-Barré cases. Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff said in a statement on Jan. 21 that health officials and research laboratories in Brazil and other countries are working to find a vaccine to prevent and fight the situation regarding the Zika virus and dengue, both transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Senior Kyaire Wynn said that he hopes and prays that countries with health standards like Brazil can “get control over this [situation] because it’s only going to continue to affect individuals who may reproduce and, then, affect their kids as well.”
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Student Financial Services now in Lourdes Hall Financial office temporarily moves from Bent Hall
PHILTRINA FARQUHARSON Staff Writer
In August 2015, a $25 Million project began its renovations in Bent Hall, separating the Peter J. Tobin College of Business and the College of Professional Studies. After 35 years of shared space, the project will bring about enhanced facilities including labs, seminar rooms and high-tech classrooms in St. Augustine Hall. Since Student Financial Services is located on the first floor of Bent Hall, they have been temporarily placed at Lourdes Hall on the
ground floor. Student Financial Services is scheduled to be there until August and once the construction is completed, they will return back to Bent Hall. “The move from Bent Hall to Lourdes Hall puts us in a more convenient location for the students, as it is right next to the registrar and is one of the most active places on campus between Marillac and The D’Angelo Center,” said Financial Advisor Werner Habermann. This temporary move will allow students to have easier access to main buildings on campus. “I like that they have moved to an area
closer to everything although it is temporary. Hopefully, the process will become more efficient, fast and effective for the students,” said sophomore Timara Stallworth. The current location of Student Financial Services may be a bit smaller than the previous location but it still allows for students to successfully navigate to and from this location just as if it were in the old building. Although the location has changed, the “Student Financial Services” sign posted in the old Bent Hall located still remains, and with the rush of the new semester students
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may be startled. Even those who are used to going to Bent Hall will have to adjust to a new environment. The Bent Hall blueprint encompasses nearly 50,000 square feet allowing TCB to move into Bent Hall solely at the start of the fall 2016 semester. “I think the temporary relocation is more suitable and provides a better atmosphere. It was weird navigating to Bent Hall,” said junior Dominique Gabriel. While the College of Professional Studies remodeling will be complete this year, the Tobin College of Business is scheduled to finish in 2017.
Snow storms into East Coast, hits Queens hardest
TORCHPHOTO/STEPHENZITOLO
(Left) Winter Storm Jonas hit the East Coast on Jan. 23, resulting in record-high snow fall. (Right) Vehicles were left mounted with snow, leaving owners to dig out their cars once the storm was over.
CHEYANNE GONZALES General Manager
On Jan. 25, St. John’s University closed all of their New York Campuses due to Winter Storm Jonas that hit New York City two days prior. Winter Storm Jonas coated the East Coast this past weekend, causing cities like New York City to have strict travel bans. Governor Cuomo set a travel ban in place on Saturday. The ban ended at 7 a.m. on Sunday. Junior advertising major, Stephen Troiano, didn’t agree with the University’s decision to close on Monday. “Mondays are very busy days for me,”
he said. “I have four classes and I thought Monday was a pretty nice day outside. Personally, I’d rather have been in class.” Senior photojournalism major Diana Colapietro had a different perspective on St. John’s closing for the day. “The campus closing on Monday didn’t really impact my class schedule” she said. “I don’t have any classes, it was kind of a buzz kill because what’s a snow day without classes?” The Weather Channel reported out of the five boroughs that Jackson Heights, Queens was hit the hardest with 34 inches of snow. Jamaica, Queens following after with reportedly receiving 30.5 inches of snowfall. Many New York City residents in both the Bronx and Queens woke up Sunday to unplowed streets, even after complaining
the streets went untouched by New York City Department of Sanitation on Monday as well. “I commute from Brooklyn by using public transit, it usually takes me an hour to get to campus because I have to take two trains and get on the Q46 bus,” Troiano said. “Today it took me over an hour and a half. It was pretty bad. The sidewalks weren’t shoveled properly or at all in some areas.” The New York Post reported Queens as “basically forgotten during Winter Storm Jonas.” Mayor Bill de Blasio admitted they failed to do enough to clear the 34 inches of snow off the roads, stranding hundreds of thousands. “If I’m living in the neighborhoods I mentioned like the streets I saw in Sunnyside, Woodside, I’m not going to be happy
this morning, I’m not going to be satisfied,” de Blasio told the Post. “I commute from Franklin Square, Long Island, which is about a 30 minute drive without traffic. About 12 miles and I have to take three highways,” Colapietro said. “Today it took me about 45 minutes to get to campus. The roads were not that bad today. Yesterday was bad, I was going to a train station that is about five minutes from my house and it took me an hour to get there because everything was backed up. Coming to St. John’s, it wasn’t that bad. It was a little dangerous on Grand Central; there were no entrance lanes.” The Weather Channel reported that there are at least 48 dead along the east coast from Winter Storm Jonas. In New York City there have been 17 reported deaths related to the winter storm.
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Politics
Politics
torchonline.com
Cruz and Trump exacerbate feud
Staff Writer The first Republican debate of 2016 was carried out in South Carolina and aired on Fox Business News Network on Jan. 14. Though still a wider range of candidates compared to the Democratic side, the 9 p.m. debate consisted of the top seven candidates instead of the previous nine. These seven included businessman Donald Trump, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Dr. Ben Carson, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and Ohio Gov. John Kasich. One highlight included the feud between Ted Cruz and Donald Trump. In the past, Cruz was against attacking Trump in any way. However, on the night of the debate, his position on this matter shifted. After a prior jab by Trump regarding Cubans and how not many can be considered evangelicals, Cruz responded by saying “not a lot
of conservatives come out of Manhattan.” In response to Cruz’s comment, Trump made it look like Cruz was insulting New Yorkers and their “New York values.” Adding to the brawl, Trump questioned Cruz’s candidate eligibility by saying “who the hell knows if [Cruz] can even serve in office?” Freshman Annie Varallo offered her opinion on the issue, saying Trump was only throwing these punches since the “polls are tightening” and “Trump is no longer at ease.” Then there was Marco Rubio, who called out Ted Cruz for being wishy-washy in all of his ideas such as immigration and crop insurance. In an interview later on Meet the Press, Rubio brought this back up, accusing Cruz of expressing an opinion to one audience and a separate view to a different audience in order to gain popularity. Chris Christie was also put on the spotlight by Rubio, who said that we cannot “afford to have a president of the United States that supports Common Core…[or] gun control.”
He even went as far as comparing the New Jersey Governor’s ideas to those of President Obama. This fired up Christie, in which he replied, “Rubio talks so much that nobody can ever keep up with what…is accurate or not.”
“
“
ANTHONY SAVINO
“Rubio talks so much that nobody can ever keep up with what…is accurate or not.” - Chris Christie
He also made it clear that he is not going to change his views. Though there were many jabs thrown throughout the debate, President Obama was hit the hardest.
Cruz, Rubio, and even Bush got into the action by insulting the 44th president. The debate-turned-roasting session began by Jeb Bush, saying that the “idea that somehow we’re better off today than the day that Barack Obama was inaugurated president…is totally an alternative universe.” Rubio added to this by saying that “Obama believes that America is a arrogant global power.” According to a recent USA Today poll, Donald Trump still holds the lead at nearly 35%. Following him is Cruz (18.8%), Rubio (11.6%) and then the very quiet Ben Carson (8.8%) who barely made an impression on the debate stage. “At the end of the day, all of the candidates do believe in generally the same things,” said freshman Jolie Palillo. The next and final GOP Debate, before the Iowa caucuses on the first of February, airs on Jan. 28. The candidates will have to prove that they are qualified and competent enough to represent the GOP Party for the upcoming election.
Clinton, Sanders leave O’Malley behind Clinton clings to Obama as Sanders strikes back
TALIA TIRELLA
Co-Editor-In-Chief Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders dominated the latest Democratic debate, duking it out over issues like healthcare, financial regulation and gun control. Post-debate, Clinton and Sanders are now neck and neck as they vie for the Democratic nomination. Former Rhode Island Senator and Governor Lincoln Chafee dropped out of the race in October, leaving Clinton, Sanders and former Governor of Maryland Martin O’Malley still in the contest. The debate quickly evolved into a back-and-forth between Clinton and Sanders, leaving O’Malley fighting for speaking time. A critical issue for this debate was gun control. The venue was just blocks from the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, the site of a horrific shooting last summer in which nine African Americans were fatally shot. Both Clinton and Sanders have been accused of being inconsistent when it comes to their position on gun control, and Clinton attacked Sanders over his backing of a 2005 law that granted gun
manufacturers legal immunity, according to PBS. Sanders said he backed the law due to the safety provisions it proposed. For the duration of the debate, Clinton focused primarily on her ties to the Obama administration. Using her time as Secretary of State, Clinton made it clear she would have the proper experience with foreign policy needed for the presidency. By using her experience in that role, Clinton tried to showcase Sanders’ lack of experience in that arena. Clinton used her time in the president’s Cabinet against Sanders, stating that
she would continue to build on President Obama’s accomplishments and legacy. Perhaps her most controversial comment was her accusation that Sanders would attempt to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, commonly referred to as Obamacare. Sanders fired back at the former Secretary of State, claiming that he would seek to improve Obamacare rather than dismantle it, according to PBS. Sanders also stated that his plan for universal healthcare would lead to an increase in taxes, though he argued that families would eventually save the money they would have to spend
PHOTO/FLICKRCREATIVECOMMONS
Martin O’Malley remains in the race, despite lack of speaking time during debates.
on premiums, according to Fox. The Vermont Senator also attacked Clinton over her initial stance on Iraq, citing that he voted against the war whereas the former New York Senator voted in favor of it, according Fox. Sanders focused on separating himself from the other candidates, which is what Sanders does best. He used the state of the current political machine in Washington and voter frustration as one of his platform points. Sanders decries big money in Washington and Wall Street and all but attacked Clinton during the debate for her record of accepting big contributions and speaking fees from Wall Street bigwigs, according to PBS. With the majority of attention going to frontrunners Clinton and Sanders, O’Malley struggled to find time to discuss his position. A previously unscheduled debate set for Feb. 4 in New Hampshire has just been added to the Democratic debate schedule, five days prior to that state’s primary and three days following the Iowa Caucus. Clinton and O’Malley have both committed to the debate so far. The debated, hosted by MSNBC, is slotted to air during prime time, according to the “New Hampshire Union Leader”.
torchonline.com
Most recent poll released from CNN Democrats
Hillary Clinton
52%
Bernie Sanders
38%
Martin O’Malley
2%
Republicans Donald Trump
Ted Cruz
41% 19%
Marco Rubio
8%
Dr. Ben Carson
6%
Jeb Bush
5%
Politics
7
Trump rolls the dice Palin’s presence may prove costly MILES KOPLEY
Staff Writer Last week, Donald Trump gained the newfound appraisal of yet another hardlined Republican figurehead during a rally at Iowa State University. Sarah Palin, the ex-Governor of Alaska and 2008 Vice Presidential candidate on the Republic ticket, praised Trump in front of a roaring crowd, claiming he is “God’s Gift” and the “Next President of the United States.” Palin’s favor for Trump is expected to bring a considerable boost to his ratings as the Iowa Caucus approaches and it may be the key he has been looking for to overrun Ted Cruz in the first of their many election matchups. This all means, however, that Trump aims to take Iowa off of the support of the bands of Sarah Palin supporters; all obviously steadfast conservative in nature. After her vice-presidential run in 2008, Palin rode the wave of conservative backlash from the election of Barack Obama to become a prominent supporter of the Tea Party, the far right segment of the Republican party that serves as the buffer to the utmost extreme. If Trump’s tactics prove successful and he is capable of toppling Cruz and other Republican candidates in Iowa, he will essentially prove that the far fringe of the Republican Party is more capable than its political obscurity would otherwise sug-
gest. Even many moderate Republicans often label the Tea Party as non-conforming and troublesome. But, if their support can be used to boost Trump up into a first place finish in Iowa, then their support might not be such a harmful thing after all. On the other hand, however, Trump also stands to trade his moderate Republican following, much of which is already struggling to accept him as a serious candidate, for those who are more extreme. If Trump fails to secure Iowa, the endorsement of Palin and her far right followers may prove to be the final straw in his presidential race. As far right Republicans rush to aid the faltering business tycoon, supportive moderates may switch to other candidates, such as Cruz or Rubio, leaving Trump in a very difficult situation for New Hampshire. The gamble Trump has undertaken in openly garnering far-right endorsement could easily pay off quite well for him, as the support could land him a large enough gap between his competitors to secure a key early victory in the caucuses. However, it could also just as easily go against him, as party politics might finally prove to be his fatal weakness. It’s all a fairly large risk and the ramifications of it will be sure to unfold over the following weeks.
Clinton feeling the Bern
Former N.Y. Sen. under pressure HUNTER RABINOWITZ
Staff Writer This past week, Senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT) has seen a sudden surge in the early primary states of New Hampshire and Iowa. While he has maintained a narrow lead in New Hampshire, a state that borders Vermont, this week has shown a more comfortable lead with 60 percent of the vote there and 50 percent of the vote in Iowa. Sanders’ surge came as a surprise to many pundits. An Independent up until his bid for the presidency and a self declared Democratic Socialist, Sanders is a senator from the small state of Vermont whose platform is primarily to regulate the corruption on Wall Street after the 2008 collapse, tooting the phrase “if it’s too big to fail, it’s too big to exist.” He is running against Hillary Clinton, the former Secretary of State, senator from the large state of New York, and First Lady of popular Democrat Bill Clinton.
While Sanders has maintained the millennial vote, his leftist ideas and lack of foreign policy experience were deemed by many to be too extreme for most democrats. There is little coincidence that Bernie’s surge comes at a time when the stock market has become tumultuous. While foreign policy has been a top concern for Americans after the attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, the #1 concern for voters has continually been the economy. Since Sanders started his campaign, economic reform has been his top priority, while candidates on both parties have capitalized on the growing fears of attacks from radical jihadist groups like ISIS. As the Dow Jones and New York Stock Exchange plummet due to international concerns, there is little coincidence as to why Senator Sanders’ numbers have soared.
8 Opinion
torchonline.com Staff Editorial board XCIII
TALIA TIRELLA Co-Editor-in-Chief JENNY CHEN Co-Editor-in-Chief KYLE FITZGERALD Managing Editor CHEYANNE GONZALES General Manager STEPHEN ZITOLO Sports Editor JASMINE IMANI DAVIS Entertainment Editor SUZANNE CIECHALSKI Opinion Editor
Flames of the Torch
Earlier this month, Rolling Stone published an article written by Sean Penn. This was no ordinary article: Penn interviewed infamous Mexican drug lord and prison escapee Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman. The problem with the article isn’t that Penn interviewed El Chapo and wrote about it. The problem lies within the lack of honesty exhibited by the agreement between Penn, El Chapo and Rolling Stone. Although no professional license or test is required to be a journalist, Penn’s actions still seem suspect. Anyone can be a journalist. Anyone who has the desire to write truthfully and inform an audience of an issue or cause they need to know about is valid in their quest to report and write articles. However, there are basic tenets that journalists must follow so their stories remain unbiased, informative and as far away from fiction as possible. One of the main tenets journalists learn is to not let a source read a story before publication. Penn claims he had to show El Chapo the story before publication in order to get published, but this violates that journalistic tenet. If a story relies on an agreement for prior review by the subject of the story, that greatly affects the story’s credibility. The subject has been given permission to change any parts of the story they may find unfavorable to their reputation, and a chance to add parts to the story that may instead be favorable to their positions and opinions. While Penn is right that the story is quite the catch for any writer, it seems unfair to journalists who would be honest in their reporting in hopefully most other circumstances. Yes, the idea that El Chapo gave an interview is newsworthy in its own right. But the circumstances surrounding the interview do not follow basic journalistic standards. The editorial board here at the Torch
takes pride in trying our hardest to get every story right before we publish online or in print. Therefore, we feel that all parties involved in the interview should have exercised better judgment. Imagine trying to travel anywhere on a hoverboard. Seems cool, right? Now imagine that the hoverboard catches on fire. Not so cool. Hoverboards were the hot new trend during the 2015 Christmas season and are still flying off the shelves, but they pose a number of safety risks to those who use them. As you can read in our cover story, St. John’s decided to ban hoverboards on campus indefinitely. We think this is a great way to keep students safe in multiple ways: no fire risks, no injuries to oneself and others and who knows what else. The risks associated with the popular gadget are too big to ignore. In a community like ours, with a large number of students interacting on campus every day, it is important for the administration to always take students’ safety into account. They have made the right decision when it comes to hoverboards. It is an unfortunate fact of our time that an award that holds prestige would bring about controversy and anger. Of course, we are talking about the Oscars. In our other cover story, staff writer Joanne Corrielus explores the controversy in depth, and includes varying student opinions as well as response from high profile celebrities like Jada Pinkett-Smith. While we by no means consider ourselves equal to and as knowledgeable as the members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, we do think better consideration should be given to talented actors that are worthy of this prestigious award.
Whitewashed Oscars again lack colored presence
ZACHARY TANNIS Staff Writer The Oscars are nearly here and, as usual, it is set to be a night saturated with white faces winning awards. It appears that some black actresses and actors have finally had enough and are prepared to boycott the Oscars, with Will and Jada Smith spearheading this “protest.” The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the body behind the Oscars, has promised more diversity. This is problematic for different reasons: -There are far more important issues that face the black community. -The gap between white wealth and black wealth continues to grow. -Schools in black communities continue to worsen and HBCUs are struggling mightily. On top of all of this, black bodies continue to pile up and not one member of law enforcement has served time behind bars because of these murders. These issues touch every black life in America; whether Idris Elba wins an Oscar or not. Black celebrities winning awards at primarily white award shows may make us feel like racial progress is being made, but it is not actual racial progress. When Hattie McDaniel played a slave in Gone With the Wind and won an Oscar in 1940, it did nothing to aid the growing Civil Rights movement. Neither will token Oscars today. These are personal battles on the behalf of people who mostly do not care about the black community. Rich black people talk about the same
social issues that face us as if they are not rich. It is the equivalent of a man with a huge farm complaining that his brother is starving. They have the wealth and connections to hire legal teams, fund businesses, improve and start schools and a number of other community changing opportunities. It is an active choice everyday of their lives not to. There’s nothing wrong with that, but it should follow that those black celebrities who do not care about the black community do not turn to it to support their personal battles. Finally, how many black celebrities hold the BET awards in the same esteem they hold the Oscars? How many are willing to create their own media agencies and their own awards shows? These repeated cries of neglect from black entertainers let us know it is not many. They understand that the white media is superior in its resources and outreach than black ones just as you and I do. If they prefer to use the white ones, however, they should act like a guest and wait their turn.
Oscars statuettes.
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EDITORIAL POLICY Editorials are the opinions of the Editorial Board of the TORCH. Columns are the opinions of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of the TORCH.
Opinions expressed in editorials, columns, letters or cartoons are not necessarily those of the student body, faculty or administrations of St. John’s University.
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Opinion
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An education within an education
9
Environment center stage at SJU program One of the advantages of attending a large metropolitan University rests in the number of opportunities, educational in many different ways, which the institution provides to a student beyond the classroom. At St. John’s, we can point to the variety of sports which form part of our identity. During the course of the year, the arts appear in the form of theater performed by the Chappell Players and music played by a variety of talented students and educators. The campus boasts a variety of organizations, opportunities for prayer and worship and calls to service. Perhaps, however, the most frequent offering on our campus arrives in the
number of talks, lectures and workshops which take place. Attentive members of the SJU community can usually find something (and often more than one thing) to keep them amused without cost.
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FR. PATRICK GRIFFIN, C.M. Special to the Torch
None of us can be unaware of the dangers which threaten our blue planet...
On this coming Saturday, Jan. 30, from 10:30-4:00 in the DAC Ballroom, the University will sponsor a program arising from Pope Francis’ encyclical dealing with ecology and the crisis that now faces us as a result of the poor stewardship of our planet’s resources. And, Pope Francis would insist that the marginalized among us feel our jeopardy
Lacking a Penn-sion
KRISTEN CATALANO General Manager
“Let me be clear: My article failed,” were Sean Penn’s exact words in an interview that he did on 60 Minutes regarding his interview with infamous drug leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Not only did it fail because Guzman was in hiding after escaping a Mexican prison during the time of the interview, but also because of Penn’s failed attempt at journalism and his complete disregard of all journalistic values. Penn, an American actor, is most wellknown for his acting and writing in movies such as “Milk,” “I Am Sam” and “Bad Boys.” Penn’s article began with a disclosure that Guzman requested that he read and approve the piece before it was published. One of the main principles that all journalism students are taught early on is to never allow a subject to read the piece before publication. Penn stated that he believes the reason the drug lord agreed to meet with him was mainly because of the fact that he is not a professional journalist. Penn continued to insult journalists by saying that anyone who critiqued his article was simply jealous that they did not receive the same opportunity. “When you get the story that every journalist in the world wanted, there’s a lot
of green-eyed monsters who are going to give you a kiss,” Penn said in his interview with Charlie Rose. I believe that many journalists were not jealous that they did not get to do the story themselves; instead, they were upset that he took their profession and made a mockery of it with his uninformative questions and poorly executed article. Penn also said he was, “really sad about the state of journalism in our country.” Even though journalism in our country is not perfect, it is not fair to speak about a profession without doing immense research and having evidence to support your claim, especially when he is not formally educated on said profession. Penn writing an article of this nature that could potentially impact the world and make a change is like allowing someone who has not acted a day in their life to star in the opening night of a Broadway show. Many people were also upset that Penn presented Guzman in a way that he seemed misunderstood and judged as opposed to a man that is responsible for the death of over 10,000 people. Penn stated in an interview that his reason for conducting this interview and writing this piece was to create a conversation about the U.S. policy on the war on drugs. This piece clearly failed to do so which is why Penn believes that it was a failure.
much more acutely than the privileged. The SJU event is the Biennial Vincentian Chair of Social Justice Conference. This convocation happens every two years and focuses our University and local community’s attention on a particular aspect of poverty. In this year, the topic is: “Care for Our Common Home: The cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.” Thus, the theme of our environment holds center stage. The keynote speaker, Fr. Bryan Massingale, is a well-known theologian and author. His particular area of expertise is racism. He will bring that prowess to our gathering as he speaks about “The Evidence of Things Unsaid: The Silence about Racism in the Care for Creation.” Fr. Massingale holds the first place in a list of recognized and informed experts who will address the issue of the abuse of our planet from different points of view. Yet, all will draw our attention to the impact of this direction on the least pow-
erful. None of us can be unaware of the dangers which threaten our blue planet. Not just the land, air and climate suffer, but also the water. A dominant story in the news of these days deals with the lead found in the water supply of the people of Flint, Mich. In an effort to save money, proper safeguards were eliminated. As a result, children as well as adults suffered lead poisoning. Now, the people must drink rationed bottled water at one case per family per day. Is it any surprise that this is a very poor city with a majority African-American population? And so, I am going to the Poverty Conference this Saturday. St. John’s offers me this opportunity and I am going to take it. I hope that many members of our University community do the same. (Registration information and more can be found at stjohns.edu/povertyconference.)
Illustrator’s CORNER “A rotation around the sun” By: Nicole Marino
10 Sports
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Men’s basketball slumps during break TROY MAURIELLO Assistant Sports Editor
PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Kassoum Yakwe has been a force in the paint during his first season in uniform for the Red Storm.
As St. John’s students headed home to spend the holiday season with their families last month, the Red Storm men’s basketball team was having a less than jolly holiday season. Chris Mullin’s squad dropped all nine of their games over the winter break as they have struggled to find footing in the rapidly improving Big East. After going into the break riding high, fresh off a win over Syracuse, the losing streak dropped the Red Storm’s record to 7-12 following a Jan. 16 loss to Butler. The nine-game losing streak began with a pair of disastrous losses at home to mid-majors Incarnate Word and N.J.I.T. in mid-December. The Dec. 18 loss to Incarnate Word, a program that is only in its third year in Division I, was arguably the worst loss of the season for the Red Storm. Following a tough 75-61 loss at Mohegan Sun to 25th-ranked South Carolina on Dec. 23, St. John’s would kick off conference play. And, while there is no denying that the Johnnies have been competitive against their Big East foes, they have yet to close out a game and secure a conference win. This narrative began at Carnesecca Arena on New Year’s Eve against
Creighton, where the Red Storm trailed by just six with 9:49 left to play, but would eventually falter down the stretch in an 80-70 defeat. A Jan. 2 defeat at 12th-ranked Providence nearly mirrored that situation, as the Johnnies were hit with a 27-15 run in the game’s final nine minutes to fall 83-65. A valiant effort four days later against Xavier would also come up short in a 74-66 loss. After one more close 81-75 loss on the road at Marquette on Jan. 9, St. John’s suffered back-to-back 20-point losses against Georgetown and Butler to continue the losing streak. Although the Johnnies did struggle mightily over the break, they did get some strong performances from individual players. Freshman guard Federico Mussini continues to adapt to the collegiate game, highlighted by a 19-point performance against Xavier in which he drained five of eight 3-pointers. The freshman frontcourt duo of Yankuba Sima and Kassoum Yakwe has also impressed, although Sima is currently sidelined due to a hand injury that he suffered on Jan. 6. Mullin has not let his team’s struggles in his first season on the sidelines discourage him, however. “My first few years in the NBA, we lost 60 games one year,” he said following a loss to Georgetown. “So, as far as failing, I’ve got plenty of experiences on and off the court.”
Handford, Grant lead Johnnies to 7-3 stretch TROY MAURIELLO CARMINE CARCIERI Assistant Sports Editors
Behind their sensational duo of senior guards Danaejah Grant and Aliyyah Handford, the St. John’s women’s basketball team rolled to a 7-3 record over the winter break. Grant and Handford have averaged 19.3 and 17.3 points per game, respectively (as of Jan. 24), as they have led the Red Storm to notable wins over a ranked Seton Hall team on Jan. 9 and on the road at Georgetown on Jan. 15. The Red Storm began their break with a tough 76-57 road loss to Duquesne. However, they would close out non-conference play with an easy 73-54 win over Fairfield behind 22 points from Handford and 16 from Grant. As Big East play began, the Johnnies opened up with back-to-back road wins over Creighton and Providence on Dec. 29 and 31. In the 80-61 win over Providence, Handford’s 23 points moved her into second place on the St. John’s alltime scoring list. This hot start to conference play had
the Red Storm at 11-2 on the season heading into a Jan. 3 showdown with 24th-ranked DePaul at Carnesecca Arena. Despite cutting a 25-point deficit down to just six in the game’s final minute, St. John’s would eventually fall 7161 to the two-time defending Big East champions. But, the Red Storm rebounded with a three-game winning streak that consisted of wins over Marquette (in overtime), Seton Hall at home and the Hoyas on the road. While Grant and Handford continued their spectacular play, point guard Aaliyah Lewis provided steady ball handling and combined for 34 points in the three victories, including three key field goals in the extra period against the Golden Eagles. After their five-point win over the Hoyas, Joe Tartamella’s team traveled to Philadelphia, where Grant’s 20-point outing wasn’t enough to squeak past a stingy Villanova Wildcats team. The Red Storm could not keep the Wildcats off the offensive glass as they were out-rebounded by 10 and gave up 20-second chance points. St. John’s remained behind DePaul at the top of the Big East standings, but returned to the confines of Carnesec-
ca Arena and earned two double-digit wins, over Butler on Jan. 22 and Xavier on Jan. 24.
The Red Storm now stands just a game behind first place with an overall record of 16-4 on the season.
PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Aliyyah Handford is second in scoring for St. John’s as she is averaging 17.3 points per game this season.
Sports 11
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Men’s basketball hits the recruiting trail
Freudenberg, Alkins and Maker on the Johnnies radar
PHOTO/CHARLOTTEOBSERVER
PHOTO/BLEACHERREPORT
Rawle Alkins is a 6-foot-4-inch guard/forward from Word of God Academy in N.C.
Thon Maker is a 7-foot center from Canada.
CARMINE CARCIERI
Assistant Sports Editor
In their first offseason at St. John’s, Chris Mullin and his coaching staff did a marvelous job of bringing in six talented recruits in order to build a competitive roster on the fly. And, while Malik Ellison, Yankuba Sima, Federico Mussini, Darien Williams, Marcus LoVett and Kassoum Yakwe are key to the future of the men’s basketball team, Mullin’s 2016 class has the potential to be even stronger. The Johnnies have already landed four-star Brooklyn combo guard Shamorie Ponds and one of the top JUCO prospects in the country, small forward Bashir Ahmed. Now, the Johnnies are focusing on three targets: the versatile Rawle Alkins, center Thon Maker and German forward Richard Freudenberg, with two scholarships available. Alkins, a 6’4” guard/forward from Brooklyn, is a former Christ the King star, who transferred to Word of God Academy in North Carolina for his final season of high school basketball. The Tar Heels and North Carolina State Wolfpack are heavily involved in Alkins services, along with Kentucky, Louisville, Indiana, Arizona, Kansas and UNLV. While Alkins has an opportunity to
increase his NBA stock in the ACC or under John Calipari, the chance to be the ‘King of New York’ and play in front of family and friends could be hard to pass up. Alkins has taken two unofficial visits to St. John’s and was in attendance for the Red and White Scrimmage at the beginning of the season. Maker, who has clear NBA potential, took an unofficial visit to campus last week and could set up an official visit in the future. The 7’0” center has a strong connection with assistant coach Barry ‘Slice’ Rohrssen dating back to the coach’s time at Kentucky. That relationship and the bright lights of New York City could be key to competing with the Wildcats, Indiana, Arizona State, Kansas, UNLV and Notre Dame for Maker’s services. Finally, Freudenberg, a 6’8” small forward, seems to be the most realistic target for the Johnnies as he will decide on his future in the coming weeks. Vanderbilt is the only other school that has heavy interest in the Bayern Munich product, but Freudenberg was particularly fond of St. John’s campus and city when he visited back in August 2015. Landing two of the three would be a massive coup for the Red Storm and would give Mullin and company the ability to be even more dangerous within the Big East next year.
PHOTO/SCOUT.COM
Richard Freudenberg is a 6-foot-8-inch small forward from Germany.
12 Entertainment
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Stacey Dash speaks out “Clueless” star wants to end Black acknowledgments
RIAN SMITH Contributing Writer Stacey Dash is an actress, popularly known from the movie “Clueless,” and a contributor on FOX News. She recently spoke out about her feelings on Black History Month, the BET Awards and the controversy over the lack of minorities nominated for major categories in the Academy Awards. On FOX News’ “FOX and Friends,” host Steve Doocy is told by Dash that there “shouldn’t be a Black History Month” because there is no such thing as a white history month. Dash elaborates on her previous statement by saying, “You know? We’re Americans. Period. That’s it.” Many people took to social media to express their outrage about Stacey Dash, who is black, wanting to eliminate Black History Month, which has happened every February since 1926. Dash not only wants to diminish Black History Month, but also thinks that we don’t need black-owned television stations or award shows because, according to Dash, “you are only awarded if you are black.” Her statement was deemed false after close speculation because non-black people have been nominated and awarded in both award shows. Non-black people, such as Justin Timberlake, Sam Smith, Jennifer Lopez, America Ferrara, Justin Bieber, Robin Thicke and George Lucas are just a few
TommasoBoddi/WireImage
Stacey Dash attends the America Los Angeles premiere in 2014.
to name, who have been either nominated or awarded in the BET or NAACP awards. Dash is entitled to her opinion, but the fact is that you do not have to be black to win a BET Award or a NAACP Image Award by any means. Dash has made very bold state ments about dismantling BET and theNAACP Image Awards, but she is affiliated with both of these black run groups.
Dash was a reoccurring character on BET’s hit show “The Game,” and BET’s twitter page had no problem reminding her that she has worked with them and was paid for it. BET’s Twitter page released a tweet that was directed to Dash that read, “can we get out check back or nah,” which received over 35 thousand retweets. Dash has also dealt with the NAACP when she was a presenter in the NAACP Theatre Awards in 2011.
In the days before Dash’s statements went viral, a new hashtag started on twitter, #oscarssowhite, that arose after the Academy Awards nominations were released. For the second year in a row, not a single black person was nominated in any of the four major acting categories. Jada Pinkett Smith, actress and wife of actor Will Smith, addressed the lack of diversity in the nominations, which happened to be on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Smith posted a video on her Facebook boycotting the Academy Awards stating that she will not be in attendance or viewing the awards show. Other celebrities also joined in on the boycott of the Academy Awards, such as Will Smith, Snoop Dogg, Michael Moore and Spike Lee. In response to Smith’s video, Dash called the proposed boycott “absurd.” The Academy Awards boycott is already helping to show signs of change for minority representation in future Oscar nominations. A meeting recently took place with the 51-member governing board of the Academy Awards. The board came to a unanimous decision to put forth a new policy to increase the number of minority nominees. The board says its goal is to double the number of female and minority members by 2020. Black History Month, the BET Awards and the NAACP Image Awards all appear to be here to stay and show no signs of going anywhere any time soon.
It’s Sia’s season again The singer’s newest hit takes over radio stations
Australian singer and songwriter Sia Furler is, once again, occupying radio stations and Spotify playlists with her newest single, “Reaper.” Released on Jan. 6, “Reaper” is the first single off of Sia’s upcoming album, “This is Acting.” The cover art for “Reaper” features an anonymous man with the infamous blonde, short wig that adorned both Sia and her prodigy dancer Maddie Ziegler during their most recent public appearances and music videos for the songs “Chandelier,” “Elastic Heart” and “Big Girls Cry.”
“Reaper,” the three minute, 40 seconds long pop ballad, tells the tale of someone running from an ominous figure, better known as the “reaper” itself. Lyrics like, “Don’t come for me today, I’m feeling good,” and “You came to take me away, so close I was to heaven’s gates, but no baby, no baby, not today,” give the song a tone of darkness and empowerment at the same time, very much in the same fashion as many of Sia’s other songs. “Reaper” was co-written and produced by Kanye West, but was originally intended for Rihanna. When Rihanna scrapped it, Sia claimed it as her own. In fact, “This Is Acting” is primarily composed of various songs that had been re-
jected by A-List artists, like Beyonce. Sia recently told Rolling Stone magazine, “I feel like they’re hits, but nobody wanted them.”
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CAROLINA RODRIGUEZ Contributing Writer
I remember I just raced in and raced out, and I thought there was something about the chorus that seemed fun about this song, but I never thought it would see the light of day.
However, she wasn’t so sure that “Reaper” would be a hit. When asked by Rolling Stone about her experience
recording the song, she said, “I remember I just raced in and raced out, and I thought there was something about the chorus that seemed fun about this song, but I never thought it would see the light of day.” In quite a brash, but confident manner, she also told Rolling Stone, “I don’t care about the song. I know in print that will look bad, but what I mean is I’m not emotionally attached to it.” Along with the song itself, Sia released the tracklist for “This Is Acting,” set for release on Jan. 29. Song titles range from, “Bird Set Free” to “Space Between.” The album is, of course, expected to do extremely well.
Alyssa’s Infififfiinite Playlist 1. “Legend” by Drake (Feb 2015) Whenever I think of 2015, I think back to blasting Drake’s mixtape, “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late.” A particular favorite, being the popular track, “Legend.” This song has everyone singing along, whether it be at a party or alone in your car. The beat will have your head nodding and arms waving for the entire four minutes. It’s one of those “feel good” songs that makes me think everything is going to be just fine because “if I die, I’m a legend.” Whenever you’re having a rough day, just bump this track and Drake’s words will put you right back at the top. 2. “King Kunta” by Kendrick Lamar (March 2015) This was hands down one of the best songs released in 2015. Kendrick combines a groovy sound with powerful lyrics, once again proving his genius. In this song, he addresses racial issues by referencing the rebellious African-American slave, “King Kunta,” and referring to himself as “King Kunta.” He speaks out to the hip-hop industry about their lack of originality and jealousy of his growing success. Kendrick came from a poor background and created all of his success on his own, something that makes him one of the realest rappers in the game. Thank you for existing, Kendrick. 3. “What’s Real” by Waters (April 2015) I saw Waters open for Magic Man last October and immediately fell in love. The energy and vibes they brought to the stage were magical, tossing flowers to the crowd and interacting with us as much as possible. I was thrilled with the release of their latest album, “What’s Real.” This song, holding the same name as the album, captures the true message of the band. Waters manages to put your thoughts into music, creating a sound people can feel on a personal level. “What’s Real” will have you reflecting on your own life and realizing you’re not alone. 4. “Sunday Candy” by Donnie Trumpet and the Social Experiment (May 2015) We know him as Chance the Rapper and love him for his mixtape “Acid Rap,” but, in May of 2015, Chance’s band, Donnie Trumpet and The Social Experiment, surprise released their album “Surf” for free on iTunes. “Sunday Candy” was one of the first singles, an ode to Chance’s grandmother, and caught fans’ hearts quickly. Chance’s rhymes, mixed with Jamila Woods’ vocals, are the perfect combination and will have you singing along the first time you hear it. This was the soundtrack to my summer. I love the choir-esque tone the instrumentals provide and how they balance with the vocals. 5. “Where Ya At” by Future featuring Drake (July 2015) This song, to me, is what started the anticipation for the later release of the Drake and Future mixtape in September. It’s funny because Future originally didn’t want any features on this album “DS2,” but he said he had to make an exception for Drake. Good call Future, considering these two form incredibly hype beats together. This is the perfect song for when you’re just chilling with some friends or about to have a night out. Unlike the previous songs, this one is less about the lyrics and more about the sound. Honestly, it’s just fun to listen and jam to.
6. “Without Me” by Mac Demarco (Oct 2015) The melancholy tone of this song lures me into the dream-like state. I wish I could have Mac Demarco sing me to sleep every night. In this song, Mac’s soothing voice sings about letting the one he loves go because he knows she is happier without him. “That’s fine, fine by me; as long as, as long as I know she’s happy, happy.” This slow pace and whimsical melody illuminates his coming to terms with the fact that he may never have this love again. I truly get lost in the music. 7. “Prey” by The Neighborhood (Oct 2015) I’ve been a Neighborhood fan for four years now and this is definitely my favorite song they have ever released. The album, “Wiped Out,” came out two years after their debut album, “I Love You.” I wasn’t sure what to expect because they released a mixtape in between the two that I wasn’t too thrilled with. “Prey” has everything that I want in a song, from clever lyrics to a harmonious tune. When I’m listening to the song, I think of driving on the highway with the sun glistening and no destination in mind. It’s a jangly, cool sound that puts my ears at ease. 8. “My Head Hurts” by Wavves (Oct 2015) Starting off with the fast-paced guitar riffs that coincide with hard drum beats, “My Head Hurts” is more on the postpunk side than the rest of this list. Having the same angst sound as the rest of Wavves’ songs, this one will have your head banging as you belt the words along with lead singer Nathan Williams. I like to blast this tune when I’m feeling sluggish on my Monday morning walk to class to give myself the perfect energy boost. I’m seeing Wavves perform in February and I cannot wait to feel the rush I get whenever I listen to them live in concert. 9. “Love Is A Losing Game” Live At The Mercury Music Awards by Amy Winehouse (Oct 2015) Although this song was not actually released in 2015, this was the year that “AMY (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” was released. 2015 was full of emotions, especially for fellow Amy fans, who walked out of theaters with sad eyes and tear-stained cheeks. The documentary highlighted her raw vocal and written talent and showed us that the world lost a special woman much too soon. The film showcased various songs, but this one in particular displays her strong emotion and pain. Many people overlook her music because of her personal issues, but I’ll love you forever, Amy. 10. “Mess Around” by Cage The Elephant (Dec 2015) I close the list with a single from Cage The Elephant’s most recent album, “Tell Me I’m Pretty,” which was released in December. As a perfect way to wrap up 2015, this song’s summer feel is sure to warm up your winter blues. My favorite part of the song is the strong electric guitar riffs, overlaid by soft vocals that sound towards the middle end of the record. When I close my eyes and listen, I can almost picture myself on the beach with my friends, dancing in the sand and kicking it back. Matt Shultz’s voice gives off that chill vibe.
ALYSSA FORD Staff Writer
14 Entertainment
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Top 10 Movies of 2015
Movie Posters (From left to right): “Spotlight,” “The Gift” and “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”
MICHAEL AMBROSINO Assistant Entertainment Editor #10 – “The Hateful Eight” Quentin Tarantino’s newest western, “The Hateful Eight,” is hilarious, fun, violent and effortlessly cool. This mystery features a ton of standout character moments and plenty of surprises, both of which help push the film quickly through its three-hour duration. It’s dialogue-heavy, but never remotely boring. Tarantino’s compelling dialogue is what builds and drives the film’s intensity. He creates eight tough individuals who hold dark secrets and mysterious pasts, all of whom are brought to vivid life by an outstanding cast. #9 – “Goodnight Mommy” “Goodnight Mommy” is a horrifically disturbing movie. If you like that sort of thing, then you will more than likely love what filmmakers Severin Fiala and Veronika Franz offer up in their riveting, new psychological thriller. The film opens up very quietly with a lot of creepy imagery. It takes a turn, mid-way through the film, that places the viewer in an awfully tense and horrifying position as it builds to a tragic finale. “Goodnight Mommy” is an artful, beautifully shot and assembled thriller, immersed in dread and darkness. It leaves quite a mark. #8 – “Room” “Room” is an amazing movie. The second half of the film is slightly less outstanding than the captivating first half, but it’s still an enthralling experience as a whole. It’s an emotional film that delivers a powerful blow straight to the heart. This movie is exceptionally well-directed by Lenny Abrahamson, dramatically and thematically rich and a testament to what cinema is capable of doing on an emotional level. The film’s two-lead performances by Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay are absolutely remarkable and totally deserving of the tremendous recognition they are receiving. You simply need to experience “Room” for yourself without much knowledge of the plot going in. You may cry three or four times.
#7 – “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” This is some kind of odd masterpiece—a quirky coming-of-age comedy/drama with likable characters and a beating heart. Director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon delivers an interesting Wes Anderson-like style along the film’s characters and their relationships as they grow and flesh out, which I thought was a nice approach. “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” is ultimately just an enjoyable little movie—sweet, sad and unique in its own right and a great showcase for young actors Thomas Mann, Olivia Cooke and RJ Cyler. #6 – “Spotlight” Everything about “Spotlight” felt perfect. The cast—including Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams, Stanley Tucci and Liev Schreiber (Ray Donovan himself )—all bring their A-game, especially Mark Ruffalo. The character’s dedication is completely realized by Ruffalo and his frustration erupts off of the screen wonderfully. The film is well-written and directed, tightly paced and moves fluidly. While it’s essentially one conversation after another, it’s nothing short of compelling. #5 – “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” I adored J.J. Abrams’ “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” for a number of reasons: It was made in the spirit of the original trilogy that we all know and love. It developed amazing, new characters and relationships to be further explored in this trilogy’s future films, which, essentially, is all it really needed to do. It was incredibly fun—a wonderfully energetic story, great action, fast-paced and engaging new heroes and villains alongside a slice of the old. All of this is exactly what I, personally, wanted out of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” and it delivered big time. #4 – “Creed” Ryan Coogler reinvigorated the “Rocky” franchise last year with “Creed,” an electrifying, crowd-pleasing boxing drama that successfully strikes a chord with both older fans of “Rocky” and new audience members. Coogler’s stunning, confident directorial vision makes “Creed” a riveting film, heightened more so by terrific performanc-
es from Michael B. Jordan and Sylvester Stallone. There’s grit, there’s some flashiness and there are a ton of great, heart-pounding moments, but it is, ultimately, the relationship between Creed and Rocky that grounds the film and makes it relatable and compelling. #3 – “Inside Out” Disney Pixar’s first outing of 2015, “Inside Out,” is a clever, heartbreaking film that has plenty of colors, joy and adventure, but never holds back from being a real, human film with raw emotion. The screenplay is probably 2015’s smartest and most inventive, and the animation is vibrant and beautifully detailed. The director is Pete Docter, who had previously directed Pixar’s “Up” (remember those opening ten minutes?), so you should have a sense of what you’re getting into with “Inside Out.” This is an instant classic. #2 – “Mad Max: Fury Road” George Miller’s exhilarating dive back into the post-apocalyptic world of the mad is an incredible piece of action entertainment. This is one of the best, most thrilling and relentless action films of the last decade, with beautiful cinematography and a heart-pounding soundtrack that dials the intensity up to eleven. Tom Hardy is great as Max, but the film’s standout is Charlize Theron, who is strong in her role and gives her best performance since 2003’s “Monster.” If you like action movies, with a simple yet engaging story, “Fury Road” will grip you and probably blow your mind a few times. #1 – “The Gift” 2015’s most underrated film happens to be my absolute favorite release of last year. Written, produced, directed by and starring Joel Edgerton, “The Gift” is a taut, affecting thriller with one hell of an ending. What’s great about this film is that it constantly plays around with audience expectations. Once you think you know where it’s headed, it surprises you with something that’s different and surprisingly grounded. The characters are flawed in their own ways, but Edgerton still finds a way to make you sympathize with them and creates a finale that will stick with you for weeks to follow.
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The men who made the grade Remembering David Bowie and Glenn Frey
KYLE FITZGERALD Managing Editor
I was wrapping up my graduate school applications a few weeks ago when I remembered that David Bowie was coming out with a new album called “Blackstar,” so I decided to check it out. As I continued working on my applications, I was a bit creeped out listening to both the album’s title song and another eerie ode, “Lazarus.” I was going to write an album review on it. But, people die and things change. In lieu of an album review, I was going to write a sort-of-obituary that would coincide with the album. I was organizing the structure of it on my flight from California to New York on Jan. 18. But, people die and things change. I scrolled through my Facebook feed
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when I read a post from 100.3 The Sound (my local music station) that Glenn Frey, founder of the Eagles, died at 67. Now, I’m here stuck with the task of somehow creating a tribute piece to two musicians who, stylistically and personally, contrast each other on every page. David Bowie, born David Robert Jones, redefined what it meant to be a solo pop sensation, then redefined it and, again, redefined it some more. The man may not have known what type of music direction he was going in; he just knew he was going to become a rock icon. After a series of failed band efforts he went solo, eventually embracing the extraterrestrial by releasing his breakthrough hit “Space Oddity.” The album, released in 1969, introduced the world to whack and the obscure, not just in regards to the song, but also the artist who made it. During his decades long career, Bowie pumped out some of the most recognizable pop hits including “Fame,” “Rebel Rebel,” “Young Americans,” “Sufraggette City,” “Heroes,” “Changes” and “Let’s Dance,” among many others. While his music itself has undoubtedly influenced the way music is composed and arranged today, perhaps his greater legacy is that of him recreating the mold of the pop idol. Bowie paved the way for the outrageous and the jaw-dropping. He’s the one who opened the door for Madonna and modern-day artists like Lady Gaga. On the opposite side of the world, and the musical spectrum, was Glenm Frey who was exploring Los Angeles while Bowie was recording “Ziggy.” Frey was fatefully recruited by Linda Ronstadt, along with Don Henley, Ran-
dy Meisner and Bernie Leadon. The four performed with Ronstadt just once before being granted permission to form a separate band. That band became the Eagles. The four created the sound that would soon eclipse the Beach Boys as the definitive sound of Southern California: an easy -going rhythm with pitch perfect harmonies matching that of the Beatles. With songs like “Tequila Sunrise,” “Lying Eyes,” “Peaceful Easy Feeling” and “Already Gone,” the Eagles quickly became one of the most recognizable bands not just in the Pacific Southwest, but the entire world. In 1976 Glenn Frey, along with Don Henley and Don Felder, created “Hotel California.” Now their most famous single, “Hotel California” solidified the Eagles’ legend with Don Henley leading the vocals. The group became synonymous with Southern California, even headlining the re-opening of Los Angeles’ world famous Forum in 2014. This began the final leg for the Eagles, whose return was welcomed by an entire vinyl of “Hotel California” covering the roof of the Forum. The New Year started with two of the most shocking and impactful deaths in David Bowie and Glen Frey. Their deaths follow a year that took its own share of momentous deaths: blues legend BB King, Motorhead guitarist Lemmy Kilmister, Chris Squire of Yes, REO Speedwagon’s Gary Richarth and record producer Allen Toussaint (who collaborated with the Rolling Stones, the Who, the Hollies and the Yardbirds, among others).
This isn’t an issue that I particularly wish to address, but I believe that it’s something we have to consider now: those who defined music in the ‘50s-‘60s, those ‘rock gods,’ there’s soon going to be a day when they aren’t around any longer. We’ve been lucky with some of the much bigger names—Mick Jagger just finished a summer tour with the Stones and Paul McCartney often makes appearances on stage—but there isn’t any denying that we are facing a reality in which names such as these are going to be popping up in our newsfeed more frequently. Tributes poured in once David Bowie’s passing was heard, and again when Glenn Frey died. Fans created murals and rock stars covered each artist’s most famous singles. It’s time, though, to do some research. As mentioned before, landmark icons’ deaths will soon become more and more frequent. It’s a frequent occurrence for people to pour into music once a well-known artist is dead and only then discover the music they made. I’m sure that many people didn’t realize David Bowie created “Let’s Dance” until they listened to it after hearing of his passing. It’s one of the most melancholic phenomena. So, before listening to a song after their death and recognizing its prominence then, take the proactive measure now and find a connection. Even if the music isn’t appealing, find a common ground with it. There will come a day when that option will no longer be present, so exercise it before it’s stolen from you.
Five songs from Bowie and Frey
David Bowie declined to be knighted in 2003.
Young Americans: This song was created during Bowie’s obsession with soul and funk and was released on the same album as “Fame.” Coined in the ‘60s as “plastic soul” (white men who play soulful music), Bowie wanted to capture the feel of dance halls in Philadelphia and used the assistance of a backing vocal arrangement and delivered one of my favorite lines in music to listen to, “I heard the news today oh boy.” Sound familiar? John Lennon collaborated with Bowie on the album’s production, even providing background vocals himself in “Fame,” and Bowie directly plugged that line from the Beatles’ “A Day in the Life.” Rock and Roll Suicide: When I first heard of David Bowie’s passing (I remember reading it on my feed at 11:37 p.m. on Jan. 10), this was the song that
was recording through my head and has always been the song to which I associate David Bowie. This song follows David’s most famous character, Ziggy, and is the track that closes out “Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.” Released in an era where heroin, alcohol and LSD saw the derailments of many careers, this song offers a biographical view of how Ziggy Stardust has fallen from fame and picked up the use of drugs to cope, and eventually fell from earth himself.
Under Pressure (with Queen): This is the result you get when you combine two of the greatest singers in history and one of the greatest bass players in history. Queen was recording in Montreux, Switzerland when they ran into Bowie and had a jam session where the famous riff originated. The question of who created
the riff, Bowie or Queen’s bass player John Deacon, is still up in the air, but the collection forgot how the riff went after they returned to the studio after supper. It was Roger Taylor, Queen’s drummer, who was able to recall it. Bowie and Freddie Mercury initially competed with the lead vocals until Mercury let Bowie take the charge. The result: the catchiest bass riff in history paired with Mercury and Bowie showcasing their octave range.
Take it to the Limit: Have you ever listened to the radio and a song comes on and you say to yourself, “This is my jam?” Well, this song is my jam. No, it’s not a hard-rocking song at all. It’s a slow melody and a bit anomalous in that it’s one of the very few songs in the U.S. Top 40 Eagles songs that is not lead by Frey or Don Henley. It proved to be one of their
most contentious hits, as Randy Meisner (who sang lead) was afraid he couldn’t hit the high notes as the song began to close. Meisner eventually left the band after a physical altercation with Frey, opening the door for Joe Walsh. Take it Easy: This is the song that started it all for the Eagles. The song was originally written by Jackson Browne, but he couldn’t finish it. Frey worked with Browne to finish the lyrics. It was released on the Eagles’ debut album, which landed in the Top 40 singles along with “Witchy Woman” and “Desperado.” If the Eagles are to be considered California’s band, then this has to be considered California’s song. It follows that laid back, not-a-care-in-the-world type attitude embodied by Los Angeles and Southern California.
16 Features
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Caribbean warmth amidst the NY cold LIVIA PAULA
Features Editor Heading for a night-out in NYC sounds fun and exciting. I mean, let’s not forget that there are people from all over the country paying large amounts of money to spend only a few days here. Whether you are a native New Yorker or have lived in the city for a while, you might find yourself a bit discouraged at times to leave the warmth of your house and face the low temperatures. When I was out with a couple of my friends the other night, we decided to make the best of our Saturday night and avoid the greasy pizza spots surrounding us at the infamous Greenwich Village. We wanted to escape the NY vibe. In order to keep the cold weather off of our heads and enjoy something authentic, we decided to walk into Miss Lily’s, a Jamaican style diner located at 132 West Houston Street. The staff is very friendly and the music was incredibly upbeat and entertaining. They actually have a section of their website called “Radio Lily,” which features
ILLUSTRATION/FEATURES EDITOR/LIVIA PAULA
a schedule of what usually plays on different days and times of the week. Since I was there on a Saturday after 8 p.m., the DJ was keeping the customers entertained with an upbeat playlist that fit the restaurant and its vibe. As soon as I glanced at the menu, I knew exactly what I was going to order: Jerk chicken wings. I ordered from the appetizer section accompanied by a side of sweet plantains, and I was pretty contented with it, to the point that, if I had the time, I would’ve ordered more. Paying $11 for wings was not bad at all given the location, the popularity of the place and my not-so-friendly college budget. Miss Lily’s sell their own jerk sauces: jerk marinade, jerk BBQ and “rass” hot jerk BBQ. According to Miss Lily’s website, the sauce was developed by a “Jamaican culinary star” named Suzanne Couch. They’re all natural, and if you are a Jamaican-food-enthusiast or just happen to appreciate an out-of-the-ordinary spice, you should definitely give it a try. Who knows, perhaps create your own Jamaican-style food in your house. My friend ordered the Jerk Salmon, which is accompanied by a quinoa salad
that did not disappoint. Other jerk options include the jerk pork with coconut glaze and charred pineapple slaw. Their jerk grilled corn is only $5 and it comes with toasted coconut and jerk mayo. If you’re not buying into the “hype” around the jerk dishes, they have other options. Be advised, however, that jerk dishes are their specialty. Miss Lily’s has brunch menu that they serve during the weekends. In addition, they also have a cafe area of the restaurant and serve patties ranging from $4 to $5. Miss Lily’s also sells Melvin’s Juice Box from Melvin Major Jr., featured in their website as a “downtown juicing legend and a 20-year veteran of New York’s fresh, organic juice scene.” Melvin’s Juice Box and it’s 100% organic vast selection of juices is just another great addition to the authenticity of the exotic establishment. There’s so much more to this place than what I experienced, and I was aware that only one Saturday night wouldn’t be enough for me to enjoy it all. I’m definitely planning my next trip to this NYC based paradise, and I advise you to do the same.
Fresh food for a fresh outlook DIANA COLAPIETRO
Photo Editor Om. Om. Om. Om. When you think of dining at a local café, meditation may not be the first thing that comes to your mind (certainly not in the daily hustle and bustle of Queens). However, there is one particular place that will, without a doubt, nourish both your body and soul. The Panorama of my Silence-Heart Café, located on Parsons Blvd, is inspired by a spiritual teacher named Sri Chinmoy who lived from the 1960s until 2007, according to the café’s website. In fact, Sri Chinmoy’s meditation students are those responsible for the management of the establishment. The environment inside the café is that of sheer tranquility. It is hard to imagine a New York restaurant/coffee shop to be such a peaceful environment, but it is certainly possible at this joint. What better way to soothe a stressed college student’s mind than with a nutritious menu? The selection at Panorama includes vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options for our friends with specific dietary needs. Need a pick-me-up? You can order a coffee beverage called “Instant Happiness,” which consists of a double shot, cream, vanilla and caramel. Let me know if you can sip this without smiling. The menu also features a variety of teas, fresh juices, smoothies, salads, sandwiches, desserts and breakfast options made with free-range eggs (whether or not the range of your eggs is important to you). As a pineapple lover, I indulged in the
“Tropical Dream” smoothie made with banana, pineapple, strawberries, coconut milk and a little bit of love. It paired quite nicely with the breakfast wrap. I know what you’re thinking: a classic breakfast burrito chock full of red onions, black beans, eggs, a multitude of cheeses, dollops of sour cream and diced tomatoes covered in hot sauce. That is not the case at Panorama. The breakfast wrap is comprised of scrambled egg, pesto, avocado, tomato, lettuce and cheese. Although it contains similar ingredients to a traditional breakfast burrito, it does not come with all of the guilt. You can taste the fresh factor of each ingredient. St. John’s senior Justice Beckford found love in a hopeless place as a vegetarian seeking quality food. “The food and beverages solidify Panorama’s intent on making your eating experience not only all-natural, but all delicious and fresh,” he said. “For people with diets that stray from the world of meat and fried foods, Panorama Café is definitely a nutritional oasis off the beaten path.” Even Panorama’s grilled cheese will leave you feeling inspired. The restaurant’s take on this simple item hits the spot. For a mere $2.95, you have a choice of regular or whole-wheat toast with cheddar, American or Swiss cheese. Whether or not you meditate, the quality of this food will lift your spirits (Disclaimer: This is not a proven fact). However, there are scientific facts out there to prove how eating better food can improve your attitude and happiness. Take that information and run like the wind to potentially make your life easier on a dayto-day basis. Namaste.
ALL PHOTOS/TORCH PHOTO/DIANA COLAPIETRO
The Tropical Dream smoothie is true to its name, visions of palm trees may occur after the first sip.
Crispy whole wheat toast paired with luscious cheddar cheese, a timeless classic for the ages.
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St. John’s losing streak reaches 10 BRANDON MAUK
Digital Sports Manager The young St. John’s men’s basketball team is still searching for answers, as they once again couldn’t pull out a close one. After falling behind by 20, St. John’s effort almost got them that elusive win, but their losing streak still reached 10. Durand Johnson and Federico Mussini rallied the Red Storm (7-13) to within two in the final minute, but they couldn’t get any closer in a 78-73 loss to Marquette on Sunday. “Everyone wants to win; no one wants to lose. We’re going to keep working and keep pushing because our coaches believe in us, and, as players, we believe in each other. That’s why we never got down on each other and kept fighting until the end,” Johnson said. The game was moved from Saturday night at Madison Square Garden to Carnesecca Arena as a result of Winter Storm Jonas. Bad shooting (34.8 percent overall from the field) and 13 total turnovers did the Red Storm in again in the first
24 minutes of the game, as Marquette went ahead by 20 early in the second half. Unlike in losses to Georgetown and Butler, Chris Mullin’s Johnnies were able to make a run in the second half. “We came out like zombies to start the second half, but we didn’t give up. I was proud of the way they played in the second half. It just shows that if you play with energy and just lay it out there good things can happen,” Mullin said. St. John’s showed much better effort on defense, as they forced Marquette into 22 turnovers on the game. Kassoum Yakwe continued his emergence in Yankuba Sima’s absence on the defensive end, as he collected eight rebounds, seven blocks and drew a charge that started St. John’s rally in the second half. Mussini scored all 19 of his points in the second half, and Johnson scored a game-high 20 points, his fifth straight double-digit effort. They tried to save their best for last, as Johnson hit back-to-back three-pointers to get St. John’s within two in the final minute. After a defen-
sive stop, Mussini rushed the ball up the court with no timeouts left and forced off a jumper that missed with seconds to play. “It was just about effort. We tried to give everything we had in the last 20 minutes and we played good, but because of the first half it wasn’t enough. I know I have to always be aggressive so I was trying to stay focused and help my teammates win the game,” Mussini said. The defeat was the 10th consecutive loss for the Johnnies, and their seventh in Big East play. Despite the struggles, St. John’s first year head coach Chris Mullin praised his team’s improved effort in the second half. “I’m not surprised because I’ve watched them each and every day comeback. They understand that they’re close. They’re working hard. They do the right things to succeed, but the process is the process and you have to honor that.” The effort in the full 40 minutes has to be there in order for St. John’s to finally get off the schneid. At this point in the season, it’s all about progress for this young squad.
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Federico Mussini scored all of his 19 points in the second half as part of the comeback effort.
Littleton: A rare mix of size, speed and athleticism SYDNEY JOHNSON Staff Writer
It all began in San Diego. Sophomore forward Imani Littleton’s impressive basketball career started getting more and more exciting during her four years playing for The Bishop’s School. Littleton scored over 2,200 points for the Knights and posted over 1,200 rebounds. The four-star recruit was snagged by head coach Joe Tartamella and was officially made a Johnnie in 2014. “Imani is gifted at 6-3 to be able to have the mix of size, speed and athleticism that she has,” Tartamella said. “She has already increased her strength since the summer and will be a difference maker for us on both ends. Her length creates mismatches all over the floor and allows her to create second-chance opportunities on the offensive end.” Her college career started off well last season. As a freshman, she appeared in 20 games, averaging 8.5 minutes a game, and was the highest scorer of her recruiting class posting an average 1.4 points per game and shooting 54.2 percent from the field. Rebounding remained a strength of hers as she posted 29 in total. Littleton’s sophomore year has boosted her confidence. “I’m playing more so that helps,” Littleton said. So far, in the 2015-16 season, the forward has played in every game and has gotten a lot more playing time than she did as a rookie, averaging 20.9 minutes per game. With nine games remaining in the regular season, she has nearly tripled both her point total and rebounds of last season and is averaging 2.7 points per game. Her shooting has improved as well. Her
field goal percentage has increased to 61 percent and her free throw percentage has more than doubled since last year to 42.1 percent. Her off-season workouts have really paid off and her dedication to the game has shown. In the team’s Big East matchup against Butler on Friday evening, she was able to set a number of career highs. She recorded two blocks, and almost earned a double-double with 14 points and nine rebound. “It felt great,” Littleton said. “It’s definitely exciting to get career-highs, but, more importantly, it gives me a lot of confidence going into the next game and for the rest of the year.” Tragedy struck Littleton’s world in 2013 when her mother passed away. Littleton was a senior in high school and, throughout her career, her biggest and most consistent cheerleader was her mom. Even though her mom would no longer be in the stands, Littleton knew “she was still watching.” Littleton, her family, her teammates and her coaches laid her mother to rest. Later that evening, the team had a game to win. Despite the emotional weight of playing, Littleton put on her uniform and led her team to a victory. She earned a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, helping to keep the team undefeated and ranked number one. Her ability to overcome adversity is inspirational and shows true leadership: something that every great team needs. This year’s season is the final season for dynamic duo seniors Denajah Grant and Aliyah Lewis, who have had an important leadership role on the team. “I’ll definitely be sad to see them go,”
Littleton said. “Even off the court, I look up to them a lot. Obviously next year, without them, it’s going to be different.” The graduation of these women will mean the emergence of other team leader and because of Littleton’s athleticism,
work ethic and success on the court, she is sure to be a force to be reckoned with for her final two seasons. “I’m just trying to do my part.” Littleton said.
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Imani Littleton had career-highs in both points (14) and rebounds (9) versus Xavier on Jan. 22.
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Balanced attack leads SJU over Butler DYLAN HORNIK Staff Writer
This winter’s big blizzard isn’t the only storm that wreaked havoc in New York Friday night. Led by a smart, offensive attack and excellent defense, the St. John’s University Women’s Basketball team defeated Butler 68-41 at Carnesecca Arena. The Red Storm earned their sixth win in conference play and allowed a season-low in points after losing to Villanova last Sunday. Four Red Storm players scored in double-figures for the second time this season as Aliyyah Handford, Danaejah Grant, Imani Littleton and Jade Walker led the way. Littleton had career-highs with 14 points and nine rebounds. “It felt great,” she said of her performance. “It’s definitely exciting to get career-highs; but, more importantly, it gives me a lot of confidence going into the next game and for the rest of the year.” The defense was on display early in the first quarter. Coach Joe Tartamella put the pressure on earlier than usual and it made a huge difference. After tying the game at two with 9:12 left in the first quarter, Butler did not score again until almost three minutes went by in the second quarter. That’s almost 12 minutes of scoreless basketball, turning the game from a defensive battle to an easy win for St. John’s. In that span, the Red Storm offense wasn’t
spectacular, but they put together a 13-0 run thanks in part to two three-pointers by Danaejah Grant. Grant, the leading scorer in the Big East, filled the stats sheet, finishing with 13 points, seven rebounds and four assists. She connected on three three-pointers over the course of the night as well. The rest of the first half wasn’t much kinder to Butler. They shot a paltry 16.7 percent from the field in the first half and much of that can be attributed to the way the Red Storm played defense. They forced seven turnovers and communicated well on the court, allowing each other to play through screens and contest virtually every shot put up. Butler didn’t play with the intensity needed to counteract the passion from St. John’s, stealing the ball only three times. The Red Storm offense was able to pick it up in the second quarter as well, using a 10-0 run to take a 29-8 lead at halftime. St. John’s used one of it’s strongest third quarters of the season to pour it on. They shot 56.3 percent in the quarter, including a big quarter from Aliyyah Handford. She scored eight of her 16 points in those 10 minutes as her team’s lead swelled from 21 points to 31 with a quarter to go. The offense didn’t run through her, though. The Red Storm had eight of their 21 assists in the third, including four of Aaliyah Lewis’ seven total. Butler’s dismal offense continued, scoring only 10 points as their deficit swelled. Butler found their rhythm in the final frame. They had the biggest offensive quar-
ter of the game for either side, totaling 23 points and showing the aggression that they lacked all game long. They got to the foul line 12 times and forced St John’s into turning the ball over nine times. They couldn’t make up the deficit and St. John’s turned a plus-17 rebound advantage and 42 points in the paint into their second largest margin of
victory this season. Tartamella was pleased with how the offense ran after a slow start. “I thought we had some good skip passes and dribble attacks to get kick outs,” he said of their great team play. “We will enjoy this, then get ready for the snow storm and get ready for Xavier.”
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Danaejah Grant finished with 13 points, seven rebounds and four assists in the Red Storm’s victory over Butler
Walker, domiant post-play beat Xavier KATHERINE ACQUAVELLA dominate in the second quarter, limiting Staff Writer
The St. John’s women’s basketball team took sole possession of second place in the Big East Conference standings Sunday afternoon when they defeated Xavier 57-41. The Johnnies’ defense matched a season-best output by allowing only 41 points. The Red Storm improved to 16-4 overall, 7-2 in conference play. The Musketeers fell to 14-6, 5-4 in the Big East. The Johnnies, led by junior Jade Walker, held its opponent to just 41 points for the second-straight game. Walker put up 20 points and 11 rebounds, her second double-double of the season. Walker was named to the Big East Weekly Honor Roll for her performance. In St. John’s past two games, Walker has connected on 14 of her 21 attempts from the floor. Senior Danaejah Grant finished in double figures for the 23rd-straight game, totaling 12 points and nine rebounds in 28 minutes of action. Freshman Akina Wellere contributed eight points off the bench, while sophomore Imani Littleton grabbed eight boards for the Red Storm. Trailing 6-2 three minutes into the first quarter, the Red Storm’s defense locked down and held Xavier without a field goal for the next eight and a half minutes. The Johnnies went on a 14-2 run during that time to take a 16-8 advantage after one quarter. The Red Storm defense continued to
the Musketeers to just nine points and taking a 35-17 advantage into the locker room. St. John’s also held a 26-12 advantage on the glass at the break. “I thought the first half was where we really set the tone for the rest of the game,” said head coach Joe Tartamella. “I was pleased with our ability to finish it out this weekend with the snow and all the different things we had to deal with and not being able to get out on the court yesterday. We were trying to get everything in today, but I was pleased with our effort.” The Red Storm set a new season-high on the glass for the second-consecutive contest, collecting a campaign-best 47 boards. The Johnnies collected 21 more rebounds than the Musketeers. St. John’s maintained a large advantage for the rest of the game, not allowing the Musketeers to get closer than 14 points before closing out the contest 57-41. Both teams shot under 40 percent from the floor with the Musketeers hitting 32 percent of their shots and St. John’s posting .393 field-goal percentage. Xavier was 8-for-15 from the foul line and the Red Storm was 9-for-12. St. John’s will begin a three-game road trip on Friday, traveling to Milwaukee for an 8 p.m. game versus Marquette. In the two Big East foes’ first meeting of the season, the Johnnies defeated Marquette (9-11 overall, 4-5 conference) in an overtime victory, 81-77.
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Jade Walker had 20 points and 11 rebounds on Sunday against Xavier for her second double-double of the season.
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Daly continues to make history SJU star selected sixth in NWSL draft by Houston
STEPHEN ZITOLO Sports Editor
Making history seems to run through the blood of Rachel Daly. On Jan. 15, the St. John’s senior forward yet again etched her name in the soccer history books, both at St. John’s and in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The Harrogate, England native became the first St. John’s player ever selected in the NWSL College Draft as the Houston Dash selected her in the first round with the sixth pick. The selection of Daly by the Dash marked the first time an English-born player was selected in the draft. “It’s been a dream for her for the last four or five years to play in this league,” St. John’s head coach Ian Stone told the Queens Chronicle. “There’s a great deal of hunger there. She has much more of a hunger and a desire than some of the other girls. She’s ready to be a professional.” Daly will be joined in Houston by fifth overall selection, and Notre Dame defender, Cari Roccaro and eighth overall selection, and Texas Tech forward, Janine Beckie. The trio of draft picks for the Dash will look to get them into the playoffs after falling short last season. “We are going to play her up front,” Dash head coach Randy Waldrum said of Daly. “Now, with getting her and Beckie in the draft, this will give us an opportunity to tweak our three-front system. We could play her as a target along with two wing players. We could play her with a two-front and have someone play underneath, or we can play her out wide on the wing. So, I think she can give us the flexibility; but,
right now, in what we have, we will play her right out as our target player.” Daly’s selection as a top overall pick in the 2016 NWSL Draft seemed destined to happen after her legendary career as a member of the Red Storm. In 2015, the senior captain helped lead the Johnnies to the best season in school history. On the way to a record breaking 15-win campaign, the first ever Big East regular season title in program history and hosting the program’s first ever NCAA Tournament game, Daly shattered the St. John’s career goals and points record. In only three seasons, Daly scored 50 goals and racked up 111 points. This past season, she also became the first player in program history to earn an NSCAA All-America First Team selection. During the senior forward’s illustrious collegiate career, she garnered three selections to the All-Big East First Team and won Big East Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2013 and 2015. Daly was also a standout in the classroom as a two-time member of the NSCAA Scholar All-America Team and CoSIDA Academic All-America team selection in 2015. “She is highly competitive; she doesn’t like losing in anything,” Waldrum told Our Game Magazine. “She works her butt off in training every day. And, talking to Ian Stone about her, he just raved about the fact that sometimes it gets to a point where she gets frustrated where people aren’t working hard enough. And, that’s a mentality that a good striker needs. She is not afraid of throwing her body against a goalkeeper or against a defender to fight to win a ball and the opportunity to score a goal.”
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Rachel Daly was the first St. John’s player ever selected in the NWSL Draft.
Kathryn Smith: Blazing a trail for women STEPHEN ZITOLO Sports Editor
On Jan. 20, Kathryn Smith became a trailblazer for women all over the sports world as she became the first full-time female coach in National Football League (NFL) history as she was named special teams quality control coach for the Buffalo Bills. A St. John’s alum, Smith started her journey in the sports industry as a four-year student manager for the St. John’s men’s basketball team before graduating in 2007. “I don’t want to downplay it, but, at the same time, I don’t really know,” Smith said on WGR-Radio (Buffalo) on Thursday night. “We have Kim Pegula as an owner here. That’s as big as it gets really. Maybe we’re getting more recognition, but there’s definitely a lot of women holding pretty important roles. I have an entry-level position.” Smith is in her 14th year working in the NFL. She spent 12 years working for
the New York Jets before following former Jets and current Buffalo Bills head coach Rex Ryan to Buffalo in 2015. “Kathryn Smith has done an outstanding job in the seven years that she has worked with our staff,” Buffalo Bills head coach Rex Ryan said in a statement. “She certainly deserves this promotion based on her knowledge and strong commitment, just to name a couple of her outstanding qualities, and I just know she’s going to do a great job serving in the role of Quality Control-Special Teams.” She began her career in the NFL in 2003 as a game day intern for the Jets. She rose up the ranks as she was named college-scouting intern for two years before being named player personnel assistant after her graduation in 2007. While Smith was a student manager for the Red Storm, she worked alongside another former manager that became a success in the coaching ranks: current St. John’s assistant Matt Abdelmassih. “It’s not one of those jobs where you
get the pat on the back,” Abdelmassih said of Smith to the Associated Press. “When she was a manager, it was her work ethic. She just got the job done. You knew she was going to be successful with whatever she did. To get that call, to be a pioneer, is something special. And, I know it’s just the start for her in terms of working up the coaching ranks. There’s no question that she’ll continue to grow.” Smith, a native New Yorker, grew up outside of Syracuse in DeWitt. In high school, she was a three-sport athlete in swimming, lacrosse and bowling at Christian Brothers Academy. “That’s just her nature that, whatever she’s doing, she’s certainly going to jump in head first,” Christian Brothers athletic director John Wleklinski told the Associated Press. “She goes from being someone hard-working, doing the right stuff, to all of a sudden being the answer to a trivia question. And, it couldn’t happen to a nicer person.”
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Kathryn Smith was a four-year student manager for the SJU men’s basketball team.
SPORTS January 27, 2016 | VOLUME 93, ISSUE 14 |
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St. John’s dance team wins first National Title CRYSTAL SIMMONS Staff Writer
The Johnnies danced their way to a National Championship at the two-day competition on Jan. 16 and 17. The team competed against tough Division I teams from across the country. In previous years, they have placed second, third, fourth and fifth. This was their first championship win in program history at the UCA and UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship. Previously, they had received second place in 2011 but transcended this when they took first place in the Hip-Hop category this year. Since July, the dance team has been tirelessly working to perfect their routine. There are six seniors on the team who were able to guide the younger members of the team. According to coach Christine McCarton, the seniors really made an effort to help the freshman understand what they were getting into so that when they got there they were not completely taken aback by the whole production. She said that the girls were not nervous at all. Sophomore captain Amanda Spang said that this year’s team came into the season wanting to win even more than last year. They worked every single day towards this goal. Spang, along with the other captains, senior Kristen Greto and senior Amy Cork, helped to boost the team’s morale throughout this season leading up to their win at Nationals. “Constantly keeping a positive attitude when we got frustrated or couldn’t get a certain trick or step,
everyone was there to help each history. “It was just an amazing the many games coming up and are other, and I think that’s what re- feeling and the looks on their hopeful to travel for the Big East and ally helped us this year,” Greto faces is something I’ll never for- NCAA tournaments. As for nationals said. The captains did not once get,” coach McCarton said. next year, Coach McCarton says that let the team have a negative atCurrently, the team is focus- there are some skills she would like to titude. “Staying positive and ing on basketball season with see the team progress in. motivating the whole team be positive and work together is really one of the biggest roles as a captain,” mentioned Cork. McCarton, who has been with the program for fourteen years, has watched the team grow. She has been to the national competition with this team every year and has experienced the intensity and the anxiety that comes with performing against Division I teams. “We kind of knew that this year going in that this was probably the best shot we have had to win and it just feels really amazing,” said coach McCarton. “I am so proud of the team and they have worked so hard this whole time.” According to coach McCarton, this year’s team was more confident in the routine and really worked on it when they returned after Christmas. “I said to the girls, ‘If your really think you can win, I need you to give one- hundred-and-fifty percent effort this entire time.’ And, they did, which is part of the reason I think we were successful.” The teams’ dynamic work ethic proved evident throughout the season and there were many times when they felt defeated and bruised. However, their message of a positive mindset and a teamwork philosophy was PHOTO/CHRISTINE MCCARTON able to earn them their first national win and make programThe St. John’s dance team celebrates after winning the National Championship in Hip Hop.