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CONTENT Page 3- College Students Politically Empowered Page 4- LIU Students Grapple With Textbook Prices Page 5- On The Fast Track To Finding A Job Page 6- Dr. Amin Zewail Obituary Page 7- Letter From President Steinberg Page 8- Occupy Fulton Street Page 8- Professors On Campus Page 9- L.I.U. National Sleep Awareness Month!

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Staff Writers

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Opinions expressed on these pages do not necessarily reflect those of the staff. Unsigned editorials are the consensus of the editorial staff members. Opinions expressed in articles with bylines are those of the writers. Letters to the editor must include the writer’s full name and contact information. Seawanhaka reserves the right to edit submissions for length and style. Seawanhaka is published by the students of Long Island University Brooklyn Campus.

Page 12- Entertainment Weekly Page 13- Tribute to J Dilla Page 13- R.I.O.T. Phase II Page 14- A Serving of Breakfast Page 14- The Day After Tomorrow Page 15- A Look At Africa Page 16- Starting From Paumonok Page 17- Interview with Jesse Gaines

Justin Ellis Brittany Ganter Shanel Gilbert Keeley Ibrahim Malcolm Jackson Anthony Louis Karen Miller Chase Melvin Desiree Rucker Ryan Sahadeo Zelika Shillingford John Tolis

Staff Photographer Nik Conklin Kristoffer Francisco Michelle Lawton

Page 18- Top Ten Finishes For Track Championships Page 19- Lacrosse Drops First Two Contests Page 19- Tennis Falls Shorts At UMASS Page 20- Baseball Splits Series with Canisius Page 21- Softball Suffers Minor Setbacks Page 22- Women’s Basketball Sweeps Battle Page 23- Blackbirds NEC Championship

THE BUZZ...

College Students Politically Empowered: Election 2012

BY: ANTHONY LOUIS studying political science at Long Island University.

Campus Events

Many of these said changes are actually happening now. There is a new law that has been passed in December 2011, but is effective July 1, 2012. Typically, when you have a Subsidized Stafford loan, the federal government pays the interest on these loans while you are in school, during your six month grace period, and also when you have a loan in deferment or forbearance. Under the new law, the federal government will stop paying the interest once you graduate on those loans you take out between July 1, 2012 and July 1, 2014, so the interest will start being added to your loans when you graduate.

Spring Break will be over before you know it. A lot goes on in the Spring semester. With May around the corner senior boat ride, graduation, Student Government Fashion Show and much more events to look forward too. You can’t leave LIU without trying everything once. Check out Avena Lounge events! On March 19 at 8:00 p.m. the Avena Lounge is having their Comedy Night. March 21 at 6:00 p.m. is Karaoke Night with a live DJ, talented host, and music videos. Test out your vocal talents and see if you have what it takes to be LIU’s best singer for the day. On March 26 at 6:00 p.m. the Avena Lounge will host game night. A pool and Dance Central 2 Tournament will be held to challenge the gamers of LIU. Prizes will be awarded to the top winners. Last but not least is movie night on March 28 at 6 p.m. The latest movies will be played and the event is free. For more information contact the Avena Lounge at (718) 488 3390 or just stop by the lower level of the M building. Enjoy your Spring Break!

By Nancy Uwoghiren

SO NOW YOU KNOW

Photo Credit: www.newsutah.org The GOP Debate: Rick Santorum, Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and Ron Paul

he 2012 election is on November 6, and experts say this may be the most historic presidential election in political and American history. Let’s narrow down the audience: what type of impact will this election have on a collegiate level? Statistics reveal that college students make up less than 50 percent of the voting poll. To many, it seems as though the typical student doesn’t find an interest in politics, but a few others said differently. Habibatu Jalloh, a senior at Long Island University said, “Politics isn’t only the president and D.C. How much we pay and receive for tuition, our Medicaid, taxes and benefits, all of it are determined by who we choose to represent us.” This means that on a federal, state, regional level, etc., these politics play an immediate role in student life. Politics have a reputation for being corrupt and mind-numbing. However, many students were able to point out the reality of it all, and how to hurdle these stereotypes. “Politics aren’t corrupt, people are. It’s the knowledge, skills, and support they acquire and what these political candidates choose to do after that determines the integrity

of the game,” says David Edwards, a political science major and senior at Long Island University. Clearly what these students are trying to articulate to the rest of the student body is that politics may not be interesting, but they do matter. Experts say that students are usually indifferent about politics because they feel as though it is on too much of a broad scale to affect them. Robert Barnes, a senior studying political science, and Jose Sanchez, the chair of Urban Studies and a political science professor at Long Island University, both spoke dually on the topic saying this, “It is like the ‘Power of Babies’. Babies have so much power, but they do not know it. What happens when a baby cries, or is need of help, everyone goes head-over-heels to help them.” Basically, the college body is the same. The college body makes up a large percentage of the nation. Virtually speaking, they have the potential to have the largest influence on government intervention; they are an important asset to these political candidates. “It is important to understand your surrounding and be educated and better equipped to make these types of changes,” says Khaalid Raah, a senior

The law does not eliminate the six month grace period for repayment. What the law does instead is eliminate the interest subsidy on any Subsidized Stafford loans that students take out between said dates. “We need our students to become more knowledgeable and concerned about the future because a lot is at stake”, says Jermaine Isaac, President of the Student Government Association as Long Island University. A lot seems to be at stake for college students and ready graduates as companies are reporting unprecedented job cuts; opportunities in the job market are proving scarcer. “Observation, understanding the past and the concept of laws: those are what the students should at least know to influence great change. The nuts and bolts of politics aren’t necessary”, said Indirah Maap, a senior at Long Island University. As the 2012 debate is underway, students struggle to find an understanding and position in middle of it all. However, a lot of fellow students are encouraging each other to get involved and become politically literate or at least aware of whose running and which candidate will have the best impact on them. For the students who aren’t registered to vote, you may retrieve the registration forms from the Public Relations office.

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Dollars and Cents: LIU Students Grapple With Textbook Prices BY: JANICE MACK

individual pages from reserved editions at the school’s library to delaying its purchase altogether.

Photo Credit: www.usedbookstores.wordpress.com

A federal law that took effect last year mandates publishers to tell professors about textbook prices and whether the books are available in an alternative, or cheaper, digital format. In addition, publishers are required to indicate whether revisions were made between the current textbook and the most previous edition. Another aspect to law requires publishers to separate textbooks from complimentary materials such as CDs, DVDs, and workbooks in an effort to drive down costs. Meanwhile, traditional book publishers will face increased competition. Earlier this month, Rice University announced that it will soon provide access to free course materials online for five introductory courses, including physics, using an open-source format. The initiative is partly funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Used and brand new textbooks at a college bookstore

ith the cost of college tuition higher than ever before, at least one LIU professor is fighting to reduce the load faced by cash-strapped students at the Brooklyn Campus as it relates to pricey textbooks. For the “Power and Politics” course, the main textbook – which would have cost around $100 – isn’t a book at all. “I wanted to lift some of the financial burdens,” said political science professor Simon Sheppard. In “Power and Politics,” which Sheppard teaches, he conveniently outlined the entire semester’s lectures, downloaded each of the homework readings onto a compact disc, and distributed it to his students on the first day of class.

intended to send a message to bookstore publishers. “That’s how publishers make their money – by jacking up their prices on textbooks,” he argues. And it’s a price that many students, including those who aren’t fortunate enough to have Sheppard as an instructor, have had to pay. According to Student Monitor, a New Jersey-based research marketing firm, students enrolled at four-year colleges spent nearly $600 on textbooks in 20102011.

For Sheppard, the drastic step is

But in recent years, rather than purchasing books for regular prices at the campus bookstore, students are increasingly relying on a range of alternatives that range from buying used books through Amazon to sharing with classmates.

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Others, meanwhile, have been trying

to get by without purchasing required textbooks. In a recent survey, Student Monitor also reported that 40 percent of students polled didn’t purchase all of the textbooks required for their classes. “I don’t buy from the bookstore because it’s ridiculously expensive,” said LIU graduate student Alane Celeste, 24. It’s a point that Roma Begum, a pharmacy major, agrees with. “Yeah, the bookstore is untouchable,” she adds. In addition, Begum adds that her textbooks – which totaled around $550 last semester alone – were all purchased using her father’s credit cards. Still, few struggling students have the luxury of relying on the resources of their parents when it comes to paying for required textbooks. For them, everything

alternatives include from photocopying

For those like Mak Garmun, 21– a transfer student enrolled in the health science program at the Brooklyn Campus – the news of any resource that can reduce textbook prices is a welcome relief. My friend supplied me with a textbook,” said Garmun – who added that her parents picked up the tab. “They pay for tuition, books – everything.” Photo Credit: www.mnn.com

On The Fast Track To Finding A Job

n February 23, speed was the name of the game at a networking seminar hosted at the Brooklyn Campus. Hosted by LIU’s Business School, the event allowed students to sit down with employers for brief interviews that lasted for about 10 minutes. After each session, students had their individual performances evaluated by career professionals.

BY: ANTHONY LOUIS For the students, the event offered the chance to network with professionals, provided leads on potential jobs, and offered valuable tips on their job interviewing skills. In a troubled economic climate, the light attendance surprised some students who participated – but organizers the “Best of Brooklyn” Career and Internship fair slated for April 3 are hopeful that more students will turn out.

The event itself served as a preview of the “Best of Brooklyn” career and internship fair scheduled for LIU students in April—or a preview, at least, for those students who attended. And while only 6 students out of nearly a dozen who attended actually engaged in the speed interviewing exercise, organizers believe that students at the seminar gained unique insight. “[Students] cannot wait for their senior and junior year for these opportunities,” said Nanette Fuentes, assistant director of Career Services and Senior Year Advising LIU. “They need to take

LIU’s Career Services office is holding interview training sessions and resume critique in the weeks leading up to the “Best of Brooklyn” fair. A student being interviewed at the networking seminar Photo Credit: Career Services advantage of these chances now, so they need to prepare for their careers now.” While it was business majors who mostly took advantage of the event’s service, the seminar was open to all students. The employers who

participated in the speed interviewing sessions were all LIU alumni. “When you’re able to become a success -- you have to give back,” said Alister Murray, vice president of Technology at Bank of New York Mellon.

“I for one cannot wait for Best of Brooklyn,” says Robert Negron, a freshman and computer science major at the Brooklyn Campus. “This is going to be a great way for me to jumpstart my career and have many internships and connections. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but it’s who you know. I don’t know about all these other students who are blind to the opportunities, but I’ll be sure to shine my shoes and fix my tie when that day comes.”

Campus Camera: What Are Your Plans For Spring Break?

BY: NANCY UWOGHIREN

Shafina Islam and Catherine Smith, Pharmacy, Sophomore

Seok Yoon, Pre- Pharmacy, Freshman

Leandro Quezada, Computer Science, Junior

Clinton Moore, Sophomore

“We are going to Mexico to build houses for the less fortunate. The opportunity to help others.”

“I will be going to Florida, to soak up the sun.”

“I will be going to DR, Dominican Republic, resort to go and spend quality time with my wonderful girlfriend and hangout family.”

“I am going to be writing rap lyrics and hopefully going on a trip to Atlanta, Georgia. If not then I’ll be watching Adele’s Concert on DVD.”

Media

Arts,

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Dr. Amin Zewail, Chair of Economics Department, Dies in Egypt BY: LINDSEY WALKER

Dr. Zewail photographed at LIU Photo Courtesy of Gustavo Rodriguez

r. Admin A. Zewail, chair of the economics department and associate professor, died over winter break in his home country of Egypt. Sources say Dr. Zewail was struck by a car. Dr. Zewail taught at LIU for thirty years. He specialized in peace and democracy and economic development in the Middle East, and was the author of eight publications. “I was always very impressed with his devotion to students,” said Dr. Hildi Hendrickson, Chair of the sociologyanthropology department, whose office was next door to his. “He was here most of the time, even on Saturdays. So this really was the center of his life.” Dr. Zewail is considered to be a feature of the social science division at LIU. He had what is described as an idiosyncratic personality, with an almost comical air of ceremonious formality about him upon greeting another person. “He was extremely polite and would treat you like a king,” said Dr. Gustavo Rodriguez, associate professor of economics. “Behind all this was a very warm and generous person.” Dr.

Hendrickson

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evoked

fond

Dr. Zewail with LIU student. Photo Courtesy of Gustavo Rodriguez and humorous memories of him. “Everybody will tell you that he had the loudest voice on campus, and so I could hear him through the walls and he was always apologizing to me about that,” she said, “but in spite of his loud voice, he wouldn’t hurt a fly. When you got to know him, you realized how much character he had and what an incredible human being he was.”

open mindedness,” said Dr. Rodriguez. “He was generous in his appreciation of people, and would surprise you in his analysis.”

“In my conversations with him, especially those regarding the Middle East, in spite of the fact of how emotional these topics were, I was always impressed with his

A memorial is to be held for Dr. Zewail on April 2 from 5:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. in the back lounge of the 8th floor of the Humanities building.

The LIU community will mourn the loss of this intelligent, dedicated, and passionate professor who served the students of Long Island University for three decades.

Photo Courtesy of Gustavo Rodriguez

JOB 9-409B • 11 X 14 • SEAWANHAKA

Dear Student, In his latest University Update memo, President David Steinberg reflects on the state of the University as it prepares for its upcoming Middle States decennial review, touching upon budget and enrollment issues and sharing early evidence of the positive impact of the institution’s new rebranding and marketing campaign. The Administration of the University

, President

David J. Steinberg

NTER UNIVERSITY CE okville, New York 11548-1327 d. • Bro

700 Northern Blv

Memorandum TO: FROM: DATE:

rsity Community Long Island Unive , President David J. Steinberg February 22, 2012

tes coming Middle Sta the heart of the up eived over rec y process that is at ve ud ha l f-st sel wil y the rsit on ive reasingly o should and this year the Un rsity will focus inc eral times before, als government funds, e months the Unive as I have noted sev ition for receiving estions y, nd qu ud h -co Over the next nin f-st suc pre sel s e al lve vit Th . rse a ch ou Reaccreditation is ces all of us to ask for grants and resear for to or is ts ue lys na tin den f-a stu con r sel decennial review. to s ou of , thi ow we cannot afford al. Looking inward ancial aid on behalf ties we value but kn all?” In other essment and renew $200 million of fin ivi sm ass l d act na an re tio ge the lar re titu th “A ins nity for ld do better?” t mission in ways bo serve as an opportu there things we cou re we fulfilling tha we doing, and are ly our priorities?” “A ful e tur cap as: “How well are l stil t r mission statemen stees, cognizant of support?” “Does ou s? d the Board of Tru ort card on ourselve ring this process, an du rep ies and Colleges s r rsit ou pas is a ive d at Un nte wh of , s gra words University can be of Governing Board the ion of iat t e at another soc par ste As tru no d er, the an t of en es stakehold mer college presid t under the auspic en for a f ssm No constituency, no sel rsity governing sse ive f-a him , un sel d n tor an completed its ow hly skilled interlocu s for every college hig tie a ori , pri ion uat key o dership in val tw this reality, recently lea f-e sel d on tion’s needs through the results of that the trustees focuse lp meet the institu ed to improve sive retreat where he (AGB). Building on ign en to des int on ms an ati ite at lig r ob ion ato its act as a facilit d sought to define y, and alumni; and an ult red es, fac sha university, served ess ts, to akn on den we ati stu d rel to in relationships mance, strengths an braced, especially board: the Board’s candidly their perfor and ideas were em d, sed me cus ffir dis rea es re ste we tru s tie philanthropy. The re identified, priori y budget, the ing. Challenges we lment, the Universit engagement and giv ce. an ern gov e es focused on enrol ste ste this year’s t tru tru ve/ tha the d ati p, ne str ho cer ini rks dm con wo is faculty/a paign. The Board the self-assessment cam ing estment g nv low tin rei fol rke y for tel ma s d dia plu an eting, imme nched rebranding se annually that sur At the last Board me and the recently lau inistration to increa t and beyond. Will s dge adm ces bu to pro d n ate fun tio l nd ita era ma red ed its pe the FY 2013 gen sionals continue Middle States re-acc t surplus, and repeat estions that will sha alth-related profes jects only a modes rent demand for he tically important qu cri cur phased out? of ill or operating budget pro W ies ? ted ser ize ida a bil sol are sta con to wment. There ms that need to be e or will they begin gra lin pro l aid strategy dec re to cia in plant and endo the an ue e fin tin Ar al cation programs con recently launched? What is the optim ? ms %) gra 65 pro (4. w 12 sense of self. ne d 20 enrollment in edu an the FY of ies FY 2011 (5%) and budgetary impact orities, vulnerabilit a level lower than t ask about our pri to to grow? What is the bu ld t he dge be bu se r’s rea yea t it is tuition inc dence suggests tha t only inform next Can any potential Such questions no 13 budget. Early evi y 20 ue? an en FY in rev y the n tel on tio olu tui gn t abs pai y to maximize ne and marketing cam is difficult to specif er a month of the t of our rebranding gh cause and effect aft ou pac % im Th 12 y. the up all ed are ern lor n, ext ulatio impact The trustees also exp participation ge march to matric d having a positive ms and the active step in a multi-sta ance internally an the admissions tea inquiries, the first of and it offers the ach tic meeting wide accept tre ort ma ou rep d dra to is ne s d tai gn, I am please ve students of all age paign and to the sus cti cam spe rketing the pro th ma to marketing campai s bo eal thi to w ssage is clear. Its app cess is attributable track carefully ho campaign. This suc nology allows us to University’s new me e ch Te Th s. ns. am dea dre d al an du mbers their indivi of many faculty me n seeking to fulfill singly for men and wome ir families are increa a route to success ts. den stu l se students and the tia dents for cau ten stu Be po g by s.” tin los ed a ow pac y for campaign is im eivables, the mone rofit does not mean rec r-p t t-fo den loss of stu ; “no t or ess tha nit illn tes lly mo of reasons, including the Board often no iversity must carefu The Chairman of ver a student ind for any number ne ional cost, the Un beh he l cat W fal . edu r do era ou ts cet of den et re y; their sha hip, some stu also m a funding agenc struggling to fund of economic hards d the University. It ing notification fro ve taken. In this era his or her family, an rself; delay in receiv ed, for he fix t, or f are den sel ts stu the credits they ha t cos him t y tha rsit spouse or the studen ears, it is a defeat for od standing.” Unive jobs by a parent, a le and falls into arr y. The Board and thus, remain in “go edu d ctl an sch ire s nt on ind e me ati els lig pay r ne ob or he et their fted onto everyo g the does not meet his who manage to me shortfall must be shi of study by operatin the other students his or her share, the te his or her course ple pay to t l com no disadvantages all of t goa es r den do ou t stu be le den st ry time one stu helps every possib t success and it mu and therefore, eve timal strategy that st to promote studen searching for the op ds are a vital cataly fun ip rsh ola sch r administration are . 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Occupy Fulton Street

BY: KAREN MILLER Downtown Brooklyn is the city’s third largest central business district after midtown and downtown Manhattan. Downtown Brooklyn occupies a valuable and unique position in New York City.

Photo Credit: www. ownzee.com

I agree with this new movement and I hope it expands to gain news coverage. Not one single news station was out there to report this important issue. I may not live in downtown Brooklyn, but I attend school here and I feel like I am a part of the percentage of people who are affected by this serious matter.

Protesters on Occupy Fulton

oday, economic crisis is similar to the Great Depression; we are facing the same issues such as rising unemployment rates, lack of paying jobs, and banks failing. Myself, like many others, am tired of false hopes from political leaders that has led to Occupy protests and movements around the world. Currently there is a

brand new protest along Fulton Street called Occupy Fulton Street. Residents and small business owners in the neighborhood are protesting to put an end to building expensive high rise condos, top retailers, raising rent on small businesses, and to stop trying to move out working-class families.

When I first came to Long Island University in 2009, the neighborhood didn’t have all these new expensive high rise condos or the soon to open New Jersey Nets stadium. It’s obvious that with all this new transition in process there is a certain class structure they are trying to bring into downtown Brooklyn. When I am walking along downtown Brooklyn streets, I see top trendy stores that are opening soon in this neighborhood such as: TJ Maxx, H&M, Century 21, etc. I would have never

imagined stores such as those would ever open here in Brooklyn. Major stores such as GAP Factory, Aldo, and 7-Eleven have already opened. Small businesses are hurting since their rent is raising and owners feel threatened. They know it’s time to Occupy Fulton Street. We need to save our neighborhoods and make our voices heard to politicians. I wish more people would open their eyes and observe the transition we are going through now. All these major developments may be good in some ways, but low-income and working class families in this country are paying the huge price: no affordable housing or paying jobs after college. I’m wondering how the new H&M or TJ Maxx on Fulton Street is going to benefit the Brooklyn community. Occupy Fulton Street has come at the correct time. We need economic equality and it’s important to preserve the culture history of downtown Brooklyn. I am hoping Occupy Fulton Street will gain national news coverage, and more people will join in this positive protest.

Professors On Campus: To Entertain Or Not to Entertain? That Is The Question BY: ANISHA ROBERTSON

reserved. But which approach is better? Do you really want a professor who never makes a joke? I’m not saying that an entertaining instructor with a potty mouth is preferred either. But some students believe that professors should be serious while also offering some personality too. And I agree with them.

Students drift to sleep in class

’ve encountered many different professors in my time at LIU. Some are open and others are much more

Page 8

When some professors give off a very serious vibe on the first day, most of their students gear up for a difficult semester. In some of those classes, it isn’t hard to miss the sleepers and the talkers among the students. And let’s not forget – the occasional skippers. Generally, those students can expect, and usually receive, the poor grades that

await them at the end of the semester. But does a professor’s personality play a role in keeping students interested in class?

But whatever tool a professor can find to ease the tension and make the material more accessible, the better it is for everyone involved.

Sure, students want to be entertained. After all, who doesn’t want to be entertained? Clearly, students are more interested in the things that they enjoy. A professor who sprinkles in the occasional joke is more likely to have students who are enthusastic about the class.

Those professors who are comfortable in who they are, and what they’re teaching, while holding their ground usually receive the most respect from students.

But at the end of the day, entertainment doesn’t guarantee success. It’s just a tool to keep students interested. After all, we’re adults who are enrolled to get a degree and not a few chuckles.

Cracking a few jokes doesn’t mean that you won’t be taken seriously – just as long as you let the students know that there are still boundaries. So don’t be afraid to make us laugh from timeto-time. After all, we’re old enough to realize that our grades are serious business.

L.I.U. National Sleep Awareness Month! Most dreaming occurs during REM sleep. Most talking during sleep, night terrors, and sleepwalking occur during stages 3 and 4.

Photo Credit: www.fashion.si

Usually, sleep disorders can be diagnosed based on the medical history, including a description of the current problem, and the results of a physical examination. When the diagnosis is uncertain, doctors may recommend evaluation in a sleep laboratory. The evaluation consists of polysomnography and observation of unusual movements during an entire nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep. Polysomnography includes recording and monitoring of breathing, heart rate, and other functions; electroencephalography (EEG), which records the brainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electrical activity and electro-oculography, which records eye movement during REM sleep.

leep is necessary for survival and good health, but why sleep is needed and exactly how it benefits people are not fully understood. Individual requirements for sleep vary widely; healthy adults may need as few as four hours or as many as 10 hours of sleep every day. Most people sleep at night. However, many people must sleep during the day to accommodate work schedules- a situation that often leads to sleep disorders. How long a person sleeps and how rested a person feels after waking can be influenced by many factors, including level of excitement or emotional distress, age, diet, and use of drugs. For example, some drugs make a person sleepy, and others make sleeping difficult. Some food components or additives, such as caffeine, strong spices may affect sleep. Older people tend to fall asleep earlier, to awaken earlier, and to be less tolerant of changes in sleep pattern. Compared with younger adults and children, older people are more easily aroused for sleep and waken more often

during the night. Whether older people need less sleep is unclear. Napping during the day may help compensate for poor sleep during the night, but it may also contribute to the problem. All sleep is not the same. There are two main types of sleep: rapid eye movement sleep and non-rapid eye movement sleep, which has 4 stages. People normally cycle through the four stages of non-REM sleep, usually followed by a brief interval of REM sleep, 5 or 6 times every night. Sleep progresses from stage 1 the lightest level, during which the sleeper can be awakened easily to stage 4 the deepest level, during which the sleeper can be awakened only difficulty. In stage 4, blood pressure is at its lowest, and heart and breathing rates are their slowest. During REM sleep, electrical activity in the brain is unusually high somewhat resembling that during wakefulness. The eyes move rapidly, and muscle may jerk involuntarily. The rate and depth of breathing increase, but the muscle, except for the diaphragm, are greatly relaxed more so than during the deepest levels of non-REM sleep.

Insomnia is difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep or a disturbance in sleep that makes sleep seem inadequate or unrefreshing. Insomnia is not a disease. It is a symptom that can have many different causes, including an irregular sleep-wake schedule, physical disorders, drug use or withdrawal, drinking large amounts of alcohol in the evening, emotional problems, and stress. Often, the cause is anxiety, nervousness, depression, or fear. Sometimes people have long-standing insomnia that has little or no apparent relationship to a physical disorder, use or withdrawal of drugs, or any stress. Difficulty falling asleep is common among young and old. About 10 percent of adults have chronic insomnia, and about 50 percent have insomnia sometimes. There are several types of insomnia. Difficulty falling asleep, called sleeponset insomnia, often occurs when people cannot let their minds relax and they continue to think and worry. Difficulty staying asleep maintenance

BY: RALPHNIE EDMOND insomnia is more common among older people than among younger people. People with this type of insomnia fall asleep normally but wake up several hours later and cannot fall asleep again. Sometimes they drift in and out of a restless, unsatisfactory sleep. Early morning awaking, another type of insomnia, may be a sign of depression people of any age. Symptoms: -Fatigue during the day -Problem concentrating or performing under stress Hypersomnia is a substantial increase in total sleeping time. Hypersomnia, which is less common than insomnia, refers to an increase of at least 25 percent in total sleeping time that continues for more than a few days. It does not refer to sleeping substantially more for a few nights or days after a period of sleep deprivation or unusual physical exertion. In such circumstances, extra sleep is a normal response. Symptoms Sleeping long periods Anxiety Disorientation Ways to improve Sleep: Follow a regular sleep schedule: People should go to bed at the same time each night and, more importantly, get up at the same time each morning, even on weekends. Avoid substances that interfere with sleep: Food and beverages that contain alcohol or caffeine (such as coffee, tea, cola drinks, and chocolate) can interfere with sleep. Quitting smoking may help. Drinking a large amount of alcohol in the evening causes early morning awakening. Exercise regularly: Exercise can help people fall asleep naturally. However, exercise late in the evening can stimulate the heart and brain and keep people awake.

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ow you can pursue your master’s in business degree at your own pace, entirely online. Through

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distance learning, The Peter J. Tobin College of Business at St. John’s offers a Master of Science in Accounting or Taxation. From your own home, you can complete our 33-credit M.S. in Accounting in as little as a year. This licensure-qualifying program prepares you for the uniform CPA examination and gives you the skills for success in this demanding field. Or enroll in our 31-credit online M.S. in Taxation program. With our focus on the

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Every Day is Earth Day Spring 2012 is well under way and most of you students are finishing up mid-terms and looking forward to Spring Break. Every year the Office of Student Life and Leadership Development along with the Students for Humanity Society sponsors an alternative Spring Break trip for all students interested in community service. This year the students have decided to go to California to help build houses. Please consider joining us for next year. It is not too early to start planning. We are still encouraging all freshmen to join one or two of the various clubs and organizations that we have on campus. It is such an exciting thing to be a part of vibrant organizations centered around a specific mission, and to make friendships that could last a lifetime. Find out more by stopping by M-311 and speaking to Kapreka Booker. We are also encouraging all students to participant in the activities, events and programs below:

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION PRESENTS THE PRESIDENT, THE CHANCELLOR AND THE PROVOST March 20, 2012 11:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. The Student Government Association has invited Dr. Steinberg, the Chancellor, and Provost Haynes as special guests in a town hall on March 20, 2012. Come and find out how these high level administrators can help you find out how good you really are, and have them address concerns you may have. The SGA will be taking your questions only before the town hall. Please forward all the questions that you would like to have addressed to Jermaine Isaac, the SGA President by March 9, 2012. Jermaine’s Office is M-208 and his phone number is (718) 488-1607. For more information contact your SGA representatives at (718)780-4034. Venue: TBA

RELAX YOUR WAY to an “A”: Spring Fever March 22, 2012 10:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. in the Avena Lounge Back by popular demand, and just in sufficient time to prepare for finals, Student Life and Leadership Development presents a day of study and relaxation tips. Some of the workshops include “Brain Fitness for Life” and “Letting go of Ineffective Study Habits.” There will also be mood music, yoga, massages, healthy snacks and much more! Please join us in the Avena Lounge on March 22, 2012. To RSVP and for more information contact us at (718)488-1216.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION ELECTION April 10, 11, 12, 2012 9:30a.m. to 7:00pm. in the Metcalfe Lobby The petitions have been processed and the candidates are: For Executive President - Carol Hanna, Jermaine Isaac (incumbent), Akim Jones, Khaalid Rahman; For Executive Vice-President, Rebecca Massachi, Rafael Molina, Westleigh Nirenberg; For Executive Treasurer, Samiah Aljahmi, Kerry Marcellus (incumbent), Roston Moore; For Executive Secretary, David Braverman, Shaharrah Richards; For Graduate Council – Rafael Badalov; For Senior Council – Saleemiah Davis; For Junior Council – Samantha Cole; For Sophomore Council – Karlalily Reynoso Your job now is to vote. Get to know the candidates. Seawanhaka will host a debate on April 5, 2012. Attend and ask questions of the candidates. Then stop by the election booth during the elections and VOTE. Encourage your friends to vote as well.

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Entertainment Weekly: Chris Brown & Rihanna Photo Credit: Google Images

Rihanna photographed with Chris Brown at the Grammy

hris Brown and Rihanna have surprisingly gotten back together...musically!

On February 20, the old flames released remixes of their songs which they are both featured on. Chris Brown is featured on Rihanna’s song “Birthday Cake” which was an interlude on her album Talk that Talk, and Rihanna is featured on Brown’s song “Turn Up The Music”. The collaboration brought on a flurry of shock, anger and acceptance from fans. Fans who have invested their time into Rihanna as a role model against

BY: SHARI STRAKER domestic violence, couldn’t fathom She has every right to be an individual how she could work with ex- boyfriend ... she has every right to date who she Brown, who viciously beat her in 2009 wants to date and be with whoever she on the eve of the Grammys. He pleaded wants to be with. She’s a grown woman. guilty to a felony charge and is serving But you just need to recognize that then five years of probation; the restraining the fans have every right to feel how order that was put in place by the courts they’re going to feel about that.” to stay away from Rihanna has since expired. Chris Brown and Rihanna have not released any official statements but with Other fans who have forgiven Chris the some of the negative back lash they Brown, welcomed the reunion with have both responded via Twitter. The open arms and with hopes that the two day after the tracks were released Brown may reconcile romantically. Celebrity tweeted, “Let them be mad!!!! We make fans such as Perez Hilton took to twitter music. Don’t like it, don’t listen!...You in support of the duo by tweeting, are not GODS to judge us. U have no “I just can’t get enough #CAKE say! Positivity & LOVE! My fans make !!!!!!!!!!!... Music heals! It really does! a difference.” #MusicHeals!!! It has the ability to turn what was something destructive into Rihanna has also said in an interview something creative and positive!” on the Ellen DeGeneres Show that she wants to be her true self, not a role Others within the music industry have model. “I used to worry about it a lot, weighed in as well. In the Huffington but then I realized the message I really Post, Bill Werde (editorial director of want to send is not perfection, it’s the music magazine Billboard) claims individuality.” that though Rihanna has the right to date whomever she pleases, it will If you can look past all of the controversy leave fans who were in support of her you may find two really great remixes. domestic violence assault confused and It would be amazing to see how far they betrayed. “I think there are people out go and if they will ultimately end up on there that feel betrayed (by) Rihanna… the Billboard charts.

Top 10 Albums 1) 21 Adele 2) Whitney: The Greatest Hits Whitney Houston 3) Some Nights Fun 4) Careless World: Rise Of the Last King Tyga 5) Now 41 Various Artist 6) The Bodyguard Whitney Houston 7) 19 Adele 8) Breakfast Chiddy Bang 9) Whitney Houston Album 10) 2012 Grammy Nominees Various Artist

Brooklyn Bowl Presents “Donuts are Forever 6” Tribute Party to J Dilla BY: ERIKA HARDISON

Photo Credit: www.thefutureflavor.com

rooklyn Bowl celebrated the legacy of super producer James Yancey better known as J Dilla.

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Brooklyn Bowl relived the musical achievements and productions of popular artists he produced such as The Roots, Erykah Badu and Q-Tip. The late producer had chart topping hits such as Q- Tip’s “Vibrant Thing” and “Breathe and Stop,” Erykah Badu’s “Didn’t Cha Know” and “Kiss Me On My Neck,” Common’s “The Questions” and superstar singer Janet Jackson’s “Gone Til It’s Gone.” The annual party “Donuts Are Forever” is named after his last album that was released three days before his death. The tribute party is a dedication to his life and death that started six years ago after he died of complications from

the autoimmune disease lupus. Every February, cities across the country celebrate the soul producer with J Dillathemed parties. The Detroit native is responsible for the musical productions of Slum Villiage, The Pharycyde and the legendary hiphop group “A Tribe Called Quest.” Dj Neil Armstrong (Jay-Z’s tour DJ) and DJ Prince Paul (producer of many hip-hop acts such as De La Soul, MF Doom and Gravediggaz – which included Frukwan and RZA of Wu-Tang Clan) each had their own individual set dedicated to J Dilla. Prince Paul however, created a video

set and dedicated it to some of hip hop’s loved and deceased stars which included Pimp C, Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, James Brown, Prince and Big Pun. He finished his set with images of J Dilla and played all of the songs that he produced in his career. Proceeds from the tribute go to the Donuts Are Forever Scholarship Fund which helps inner-city music programs to provide scholarships to students. More info can be found on http:// jdillafoundation.org

R.I.O.T. Phase II The Concert

BY: MICHELLE LAWTON

“perfect way to experience different types of music of Christ.” She stated that it is rare to have a mix of music when it comes to gospel music. During intermission, Renee Maxwell and Raven Palacio expressed their excitement for the rest of the concert. Maxwell strongly felt that gospel group Champion, “radically influenced our time.” Palacio really enjoyed the lighting of the stage as the artists performed. Post RIOT, Uylsse shared the moment that triggered such an event. While in the comfort of his own room, Uylsse was enlightened with an idea while reading his Bible. “I felt like the words were jumping off the page,” said Uylsse.

Members of the Gospel Choir perform at the Kumble Theater Photo Credit: Michelle Lawton

here was a full house of cheering, screaming, chanting and tears. RIOT Phase II was just as successful as the first RIOT on October 17, if not better. Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus’ own Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts was home to RIOT Phase II on Friday 24, sponsored by the collaborated LIU Christian Fellowship Club, LIU Gospel Choir, LIU-TV and Student Life. The concert started off with a video clip of a reporter delivering news about an upcoming RIOT event. Following the news reporter, Jeffrey Ulysse, President of the Christian Fellowship Club led a crowd of marching students as he explained what the event was rioting against. The video clip was very intense leading up to the live concert. RIOT is an acronym for Radically Influence Our Times. At the RIOT Phase II concert, multiple groups believing in the RIOT message came to showcase their music and vocal abilities to successfully move the Kumble Theatre audience. The LIU Gospel Choir was the first act,

setting the tone for the night. Following the choir, Sir Musiq, a guest gospel singer, took the stage and granted the crowd access to his vocals. One song Sir Music sang was titled, “Alien” where he explained how he was always “weird” and is now embracing his distinctiveness. According to Sir Musiq, “God has made you uniquely different.” The most intriguing piece was the performance from Andy Mineo. As he took the stage, his music started with a hum sound as the lights began flaring and flickering. Once the beat dropped, the lights came up and his song, “Pressure” took form. Mineo is a gospel rapper and his lines were very powerful. “You can take my joy because the world didn’t give it to me.” This is one out of many lines that Mineo said that caused the audience to cheer. To the surprise of many, Mineo also used audience created props, such as cameras and a Diet Pepsi bottle, to come up with the comical stanzas in his freestyle rap. With his previously prepared songs, Mineo used familiar classical hip-hop beats to host his lyrics.

By the time Mineo left the stage he had received a standing ovation. Throughout the night, the audience was on their feet clapping and cheering. They never fell short with their energy as all performers took the stage. Positive energy was given to baritone singer, Ricky Brackett, who is a member of the Gospel Choir. He performed his version of “Amazing Grace” and had the audience’s full attention. Brackett performed with a dark stage that lit him perfectly. The focus was clear in his moments on stage. Gospel rocking group, Champion was also a sensation to watch. The group consisted of two guitarist, one drummer, one violinist and one keyboard player. As they performed their many numbers, the background was a vibrant blue with white designs which appeared to be clouds. It gave the performance a heavenly aura. The drummer of Champion ended their performance with an intense solo finale that shook the room. Home coming queen, Amber Mitchell described her appreciation for the music at RIOT Phase II as being a,

Reflecting on Jesus, Uylsse said, “He was not pleased with the state of mankind and chose to do something about it in order to make a difference… he sought after love, freedom, and peace for all!” This, he said triggered the beginning stages of RIOT. “As I sat in my room on my bed reflecting, I began to think of all that seeks to enslave our generation; suicide, alcohol abuse, sex abuse, pornography, music that promotes violence, murder and the degradation of women.” The goal of RIOT Phase II was to “rally up and encourage everyone in that room to radically influence their campus, city, jobs and generation,” said Ulysse. As Ulysse took the stage to partake in a t-shirt toss with Sir Musiq he said, “We’re not only lifting up our voices, but we’re taking action.” RIOT Phase II collaborated with Oxfam America, which is an organization that fights against poverty and injustice. RIOT Phase II was able to raise $292 in donations for Oxfam America at the end of the night. The RIOT movement has been a successful event since the Fall 2011 semester and continues to illustrate its influence on the Brooklyn Campus as well as outside of the campus. For more information about the event students can go to room S-231 in the Sloan building or call the Gospel Choir and Christian Fellowship Club office at 718488-1596.

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A Serving of “Breakfast:” Chiddy Bang Photo Credit: www.2dopeboyz.com

Listening to this album was a pleasure; especially since the group Chiddy Bang lived up to their alternative Hip-Hop persona. Every song was certainly different from the norm. It was refreshing to see rappers try something new. The group Chiddy Bang is a duo. The members are Chidera “Chiddy,” Anamege and Noah “Xaphoon Jones” Beresin. They were originally based in Philadelphia, and had gained some spotlight and fans from posting their songs on Myspace.

common complaint about the state of Hip-Hop music is that “all artists sound similar” and it’s hard to disagree. Music fanatics now have something new. Pop beats mixed with rap lyrics. Chiddy Bang has given people the change people have desperately been asking for in their debut album, “Breakfast.”

The duo may be appealing to some as one member is Caucasian and one is African American. Since they became a group they have created multiple mixtape’s such as “Air Swell” and “Peanut Butter and Swelly.” Both mixtapes were fair but it made Chiddy Bang come across as a group not to be taken seriously. Even though their debut album was recently released they are working on a new mixtape set for release later this year titled “Grab

The Day After Tomorrow

a Plate.” Chiddy Bang has paid their dues and is willing to continue working towards being more successful. One of the singles from the album “Breakfast” titled “Ray Charles” is a fun, energetic and entertaining song to listen to. It has a certain swagger to it even though the lyrics are offensive to legend Ray Charles (God rest his soul), but we’ll get to that in a minute. “Ray Charles” has interesting messages, such as telling all men don’t be “Blind” to a woman if she is perfect for you. Men never want to have “the one that got away” but sadly enough that ends up being the case. This song has a message behind it, a good beat and even has backup singers in the background singing which is reminiscent of Ray Charles’ own songs. The music video for this song however, seems disrespectful as if they were making fun of the legendary singer. There is a huge difference between what Jamie Foxx did in the movie “Ray” and what is being shown in the music video. It wasn’t necessary to have Chiddy doing the Ray Charles mannerism like looking

up to the sky while singing and playing the piano. Another catchy song that many men can relate to is, “Does She Love Me” because there is always that girl you may like but you want to know if the feeling is mutual. For some, this could have been the theme song for a high school or college crush. Love is the topic that no matter how many songs are made about it, a cure will never be found. Chiddy Bang, as a group can draw a connection to other college students especially since not too long ago they were in college themselves. This duo has set a tone for 2012 and for themselves. Since they have put an extensive amount of effort into their debut it’s a good sign for their future. When their new mixtape “Grab a Plate” debuts it must maintain the standards they are setting. Hopefully Chiddy Bang will promote others to come together to give music a new sound, not only for Hip-Hop but in other genres as well.

BY: JUSTIN ELLIS

Maino has put a project together that he can be proud of and one that fans should download to their iPods.

Maino is talented, but the song “Heaven for a G” sounds like something we have all heard before. Almost all rappers for some reason make a song wondering if heaven has a spot for the criminals. Tupac, was one of the many artists who started that trend with his song entitled, “Wonder if Heaven Got a Ghetto.” It’s almost ironic that Maino lists some of the wrong things he has done in life

to then wonder about heaven’s spot for him. To say, “I already know how I’m going to go all f*cked up and high” sorry to say but God has no place for that. In the world we live in something we certainly lack without question is fully functional relationships. In “That Could Be Us” listeners are reminded that love is possible. Examples used on the track such as: Beyonce and Jay-Z, Alicia Keys and Swiss Beats, Barack and Michelle, all respectively have happy families. If the rich and famous can find that special someone, then those who aren’t rich and famous (the fans) should be able to easily have a working relationship. You just have to make it happen. There is nothing better than a song that gives people hope. Since Maino is a Brooklyn native, he is certainly making his hometown proud with his albums. The fans only hoped

that the quality of music doesn’t begin to fade. Consistency is always important. The world could always use another Brooklyn rap star.

Photo Credit: www.realtalkny.uproxx.com

www.itunes.com

It’s obvious that the rapper worked hard on this album and the early sale results has proven this to be so. “Day After Tomorrow” in its short life span is already high on the charts and should only continue to rise. On iTunes hiphop list it’s currently ranked at four in sales. On iTunes the album’s price tag is $10.00 and it’s worth it.

hen Maino released his last mixtape “I Am Who I Am” it created hope that his new album “Day After Tomorrow” would surpass his previous release. It’s safe to say his mission was accomplished.

BY: JUSTIN ELLIS

African Students Association: A Look At Africa One of the pieces was a green halter top in a V-neck shape with a matching tribal print skirt and black pumps. The model’s outfit was accompanied by a chic bow headband. For the men’s line, the models wore an array of vests with different colorful designs such as the puzzle piece vest that was paired with khaki pants.

BY: MABEL MARTINEZ

The signature piece in the collection was a blue corset with a tulle skirt that was paired with platform boots. Chidex Designs featured a lot of pieces for women and playful looks for the upcoming Spring season. “My target [for my collection] is the girl or woman that wants to be grown and sexy in a way gets her noticed but not the center of attention,” Aneke said.

Chidex Designs by Chidera Aneke Photo Credit: Michelle Lawton

he Kumble Theater crowded with fashionistas, students and parents for the African Students Association fashion show, “A Look at Africa” on February 29. The event featured collections from Kreatif Designs, Chidex Designs, NSAA House of Designs, and accessories from Designs By U Jewelry. The show began with a traditional African dance with seven young women dancing barefoot while wearing leopard print leggings and black tank tops. Each high-spirited dancer moved in tune with the rhythm of the music. After the performance, the show’s hosts – Dannley Idopisel and Hawa Jabbie – came to stage and introduced a singer named Fatima Sillah, who hit high notes more than once in her performance of an original song. The first collection highlighted was Chidex Designs by Chidera Aneke. The collection had 25 pieces in total for men and women. There was a variety of floral and tribal print skirts with matching tops.

At one point, the show strayed away from the runway action to highlight the continuing crisis in Somalia. The African Students Association raised awareness by having three group members recite poetry. The audience stood silent as they walked onto the stage wearing all-black headdresses. “Famine, sickness, death, and sorrow…hunger need no language for translation,” one of them said. The next poet yelled to the top of her lungs: “I cried, I scream but no one hears, all I ask is for food and water!” Drumming is a vital aspect of African culture and ASA made sure that it was prominently featured. Three men came onto the stage and formed a semi-circle with their drums. Two dancers came to the stage and danced to the beat. But they weren’t the only ones dancing in the theater. A former Long Island University student, Fatima Samad, showed her accessories collection, Design By U jewelry. The line had a variety of earrings with each one featuring a very distinct appearance. One model wore a black peplum strapless dress with large, round wooden earrings, which gave the outfit a modern yet ethnic feel to it. “All our pieces are handmade to give its unique quality,” Samad

A drumming performance during the fashion show with tribal dancing said. “Each piece tells its own story.” Kreatif Designs by Tosin Olaniyi showcased garments for men and women, with the color scheme of green and yellow. Models wore jumpsuits, sleeveless and sequined dresses. Kreatif Designs’ pieces outlined a woman’s curves through sleeveless dress with ruffles at the waist. Men wore classic blazers, bowties and tunics in a variety of colors and patterns. Some kept it simple with pants and sunglasses.

neck tie that also can go on the waist and high wasted pants. Garments in the collection are priced from $30-$300. “I loved Kreatif Designs and NSAA Designs. They were versatile,” said Awa Jobe, an audience member. “I can see myself wearing the clothes.”

The last line to hit the runway was NSAA House of Designs by Theresa Frimpomaa, which had 21 pieces in total. NSAA Designs had a variety of patterns and tribal prints in light purples, green, yellow, and hints of blue and black. With a mixture of ensembles that can be worn in all seasons, the collection had a touch of glamour in every piece. The signature piece in the collection was a strapless printed black and white dress that had a human weave at the bottom. The ensemble was unique and chic with the printed pattern. “It describes who I am,” Frimpomaa said. “[It] gives you an idea of what I’m capable of bringing to the fashion world.” Other pieces in the collection had high slits, a convertible

Model wearing pants from Kreatif Designs

Page 15

Starting From Paumonok

BY: DESIREE RUCKER

groundbreaking comic strip “Dykes to Watch Out For” revolutionized lesbian life. She wanted to see people who looked like her and her friends. She began drawing to portray an accurate reflection of herself in a cultural mirror. In the beginning, Ms. Bechdel did not see herself as an activist, but as someone who drew cartoons about them. The comic strip became an ongoing soap opera; a way to normalize what was her life. The acceptance of the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) community led to the disappearance of markets for the comic strip.

Alison Bechdel at the Kumble Theater

lison Bechdel was the speaker at this year’s “Starting From Paumanok Lecture” which was held on February 23, at the Kumble Theater. Her lecture was entitled, “Drawing the Inside Out: The Personal, the Political and the Comic” it was based mainly on anecdotes from her life. She shared deep personal moments; one in which she showed childhood photographs of herself as evidence that as a child she knew she was gay; others where she shares her growth as an artist and as the doting daughter of creatively unfulfilled parents. Ms. Bechdel held the audience in a rapture that was punctuated with laughter at her witty insights into the universality of our human experiences. Alison Bechdel attended a liberal arts college and majored in Art. She said her interest in images, languages, linguistics and semiotics prepared her perfectly for a career as a cartoonist. Her

Page 16

With acceptance came the loss of special places, bars and bookstores. Alison noted that these places “which had become vital and substantive started to evaporate into the void.” Ironically, she admits that many of these places had “started to feel like a ghetto.”

wondered how she missed subtle clues about her father. One may have been that her father tried to get her to read “Leaves of Grass” when she was younger, even using as an incentive that the book was banned for indecency. Now in her middle age, Bechdel is sad to have missed out on Walt Whitman’s queer point of view. She admires how Walt Whitman saw himself as a part of the democracy, how he claimed his identity as an American citizen. This February, Bechdel completed her second graphic memoir entitled, “Are You My Mother?” to be released in May 2012. She explained that writing this memoir was harder than the first because her mother is still alive. She also admitted that “Mother is not so thrilled about the book.” She added that her relationship with her mother has always been strained. Bechdel remarked to the

By the time she was comfortable as a gay woman, she realized that she liked being an outsider. Ms. Bechtel said there have been two events in her lifetime that have been “paradigm shifts” for her.

During the writing of this memoir she

To document the distant, literally-hands off relationship she and her mother share, Bechdel turned to her journals, dreams, photos and notes from her therapy sessions. She admonished the writers in the audience to “Never violate the privacy of others. Ask people before you portray them unflatteringly in your work. Be willing to change their names to accommodate them.” Bechdel, feels that she has done what her parents could not bring themselves to do, sublimate all other interests for that of their art. She credits her OCD for her drive and her lack of maternal instinct for her success. In closing she said her drive was to be the artist they (her parents) couldn’t be.

Allison said the comic strip was compiled into a book right at the time graphic novels became a hot publishing trend and no longer considered the genre for losers. Ms. Bechdel then wrote “Fun Home” a graphic memoir about her father. Her father was a closeted gay man who killed himself after she came out as a lesbian. The book “Fun Home” is divided into chapters named after the authors her father loved. She displayed onscreen a drawing from the Proust Chapter of a photograph taken by her father of Roy, a young man who worked as a part time gardener for the family and who was also his student. She juxtaposes this image with drawings of photographs of her and her siblings romping at the seashore that weekend oblivious to the machinations swirling around them.

audience that she thought they hadn’t touched in years.

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Applications being accepted for May and Sept. 2012 start dates.

EDUCATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF PHYSICIANS

Gaining Ground: An Interview with Jesse Gaines BY: JOHN TOLIS

Gaines has definitely left a mark not just in the record books, but on her teammates as well, especially the ones that came from her high school, such as rookie Shakia Williams. The rookie has a lot of promise in her future and Gaines says that Williams is the one that can break her record one day. “She is my mini me, because she reminds me of myself when I got here,” said Gaines on Williams.

ou can say that track and field is a sport that isn’t necessarily popular. People seem to know about it only when the Olympics come around or if a college athlete does something spectacular. That athlete is the phenomenal Long Island University track star, senior Jessie Gaines. It all began in Chesapeake, Virginia at Western Branch High school, where Gaines began her track and field career. “When I was little kid, I said I wanted to be the fastest woman in the world. I started at 12 years old, but got serious about it when I was 16”, Gaines said, “at first I did it to stay out of trouble, but then I really got good at it and college start noticing me.” While at Western Branch, Gaines won team’s Most Valuable Performer and Outstanding Athlete and Best All-Around performer. LIU really stood out to Gaines because LIU had more to offer and Gaines felt comfortable being here. There was no doubt that Gaines was going leave her mark at LIU because since freshmen year, Gaines was lightning on the track. She was named NEC Rookie of the Meet at the NEC Championships and also shattered the 60-meter dash record with a time of 7.52. She also set the LIU record in the 55-meter hurdle in a time of 8.01. Gaines also earned Most Valuable Player and Most Outstanding Performer at the indoor NEC Championships. Sophomore year was the same story for Gaines as the accolades kept on going down the list. She won the NEC Championship outdoor Most Valuable Performer and Most Outstanding Track performer award. She grabbed the 100-meter record at the NEC Championships with an amazing time of 11.86. Even though she achieved so much on the field, Gaines feels that it was her junior year here that turned everything around for her. “Junior year, I turned it around completely because I’ve gone from almost flunking and getting kicked

Gaines owns nine records here at Long Island University, which I’m sure all have a special meaning to her, but it’s the 60 and 100-meter hurdle records that are special to her. Gaines describes the hurdles as a ‘love hate relationship’. Gaines says that track is not about focusing on one thing, but to focus on what’s going on that week. In my mind, Gaines is an all-around athlete who can

do it all. She can run, jump and throw, that’s something you don’t see often in athletes. When this year is all over, Gaines will be graduating with a degree in Media Arts, but she’s thinking about going back to school to have a career in acting. But if an opportunity for track events comes her way then she will take it. “I definitely see myself working for it, I know myself, and I know if I can get my foot in the door, I’m going to work all the way to get through it,” said Gaines. So don’t be surprised if you see Gaines in a couple of track and field events in the future. Maybe one day Gaines will have the opportunity to show the whole world her talents in not just any track and field event, but the Olympics.

On Top of the World: Senior Jesse Gaines continues to improve her career at LIU Brooklyn. Photo: LIU Athletics out of school to being on the Honor roll on the Dean’s list,” she said. Everything was going Gaines’ way in 2010-2011 as she earned All-NEC First Team honors in both the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 14.16 and the triple jump with a leap of 11.76 meters. She clocked in at 8.34 in the 60-meter hurdles to break the record and earned All-NEC First Team honor. She was again named Most Valuable and Outstanding Performer in the NEC Indoor and Outdoor Championships. “I’m definitely honored and I see as one of things that come when I do what I’m supposed to do,” Gaines said about her achievements.Being a senior in college definitely means a lot to student athletes because they have achieved so much. Gaines believes that her senior year will be her most memorable one.“I came into myself this year, I reached a breaking point within myself and I was determined to be the best I can be at everything I do. As for track, I definitely say that this is the year I want to make a mark,” Gaines said.

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Top Ten Finishes for Track at IC4A Championships

BY: JOHN TOLIS

ver the weekend, the Long Island University men’s and women’s track teams traveled to Roxbury, Massachusetts for the ECAC and IC4A Championships. The women finished top ten in the standings, in the seventh spot with an overall score of 32. Senior Jessie Gaines once again put up another spectacular performance as her day ended with three top three finishes.

Photo: LIU Athletics

Both Gaines and LIU’s Torrie Saunders competed in the 60-meter hurdles. Gaines finished with a time of 8.37 that put her in third place and Saunders came in seventh in a time of 8.63. In the triple jump, Gaines took the second spot with a jump of 12.61 meters. Finally, Gaines finished number one in the long jump with an outstanding jump of 6.18 meters. Blackbird freshmen Bryanna Williams also competed in the long jump, but finished in the 15th spot with a jump of 5.36 meters.

“I think both teams fared well at the ECAC/IC4A champs. We went in as a team with the expiations of qualifying more athletes for the Indoor NCAA championships but came up a little short. We had several minor injuries from key athletes that prevented us from performing as good as we could have,” said Track and Field head coach Simon Hodnett. The Blackbirds have had some key players out during the Indoor championships, but coach Simon believes that some athletes have made an impact that has really helped out the team. “Shakia Williams, Brittany McClain, and Bryanna Williams have really stepped up as freshman,” said Hodnett, “the trio

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Photo: LIU Athletics

Another Blackbird that had a top three finish was senior Charlene Fuller in the 60-meter dash. She clocked in at 7.57 and took third place. Long Island also finished seventh in the 4x400 meter relay in a time of 3:44.98, Shakia Williams, Jazmin Walker, Kadisha Wickham and Saunders were put together for the competition.

Sprintek: The men and women track teams took top ten finishes at the IC4A Championships in Roxbury, MA. of Gaines, Saunders, and Waller scored approximately 90 of the teams total 140 some odd points. Transfer Charlene Fuller who has been injured stepped up big time at the NEC and ECAC championships.” Despite putting up some decent and strong performances, the men’s track and field team finished in the 24th spot with an overall score of 12. Junior Nickolei Mahlung by far had the best performance for his team in the 60-meter dash as he finished second with a respectable time of 6.82. Classmate Jarenn Stewart also competed

in the same race, but clocked in at 6.82, enough for seventh place. LIU finished last in the 4x400 relay with a time of 3:33.38 and junior Chris Welch, freshman Andi Augustin, junior Kenneth Wallace Whitfield and junior Dwayne Layne was the team for the race. Finally, Wilmot Stubblefield finished 17th in the triple jump with a mark of 17.24 meters. LIU will next compete at the NCAA Indoor Championships in Nampa, Indiana and hopefully put these results behind them.

“As long as we can stay focused and injury free, both teams could go out and compete at a higher level during outdoors. Corryl Boyd will re-join us for outdoors and he will also add depth, experience, and leadership to the squad as we look to challenge for the men’s title,” Hodnett said.

Lacrosse Drops First Two Contests of Season BY: ALANA WOHLERS

Dynamic Duo: Lacrosse dropped its first two contests of 2012 but relluctant to see performances by freshman such as Brittany Rader

acrosse took on Iona and Manhattan this week seeking their first wins of the season. Wednesday, the Blackbirds took on Iona for their second road game of the

regular season. Six sophomores stood out and helped the Blackbirds stay in close reach of a win. Shakoya Smith recorded a hat trick on the day while Kimberly Kovar, Ashley Delaney and

Katie Williams added one goal apiece. Junior Caitlin Farrell ended Iona’s eightgoal run with a goal of her own to make the score 14-6 in favor of Iona.

the ball back ending the game. Rader had a hat trick on the day along with multiple other Blackbirds contributing to the high scoring game.

With the game ending in the score of 17-7 in favor of Iona, the Blackbirds were outshot 35-17. Sophomore Caroline Kaplan scooped up five balls leading the Blackbirds in ground balls won. Iona took the advantage in ground balls 25-16. Sophomore Gina Haber had 11 saves on the day.

Despite the lose, the Blackbirds recorded scooping up 24 grounds ball and were barely out shot 31-29. Manhattan also scooped up 24 ground balls. Goalie Gina Haber had 8 ground balls and stopped 11 shots.

The Blackbirds also played their first home game match of the season against Manhattan on Saturday. After falling to an early 3-0 lead, freshman Brittany Rader broke free and put the Blackbirds on the board. LIU went into the half down a goal. Going into the second half, the Blackbirds were down 14-9 but fought back cutting the lead to 13-14 with only seconds to go. With one last attempt to tie the game, the Blackbirds were charged with a foul that gave Manhattan

Tennis Falls Short at UMASS

BY: ALANA WOHLERS

match 8-5. Sophomore Lisa Mass paired up with Alekasandra Pavlovic falling 8-4. The last doubles match of the day went to UMASS with their players defeating freshman Nancy Zonneveld and Brittany Thompson. With the double matches ending in favor of UMASS, the Blackbirds went into their single matches focused and ready to go. “There’s always room for more work. Next week in Florida we have five matches and I think this will bring us some more rhythm in match play and build our confidence,” Blessington said. Ace in the Hole: Junior Taysha Blessington (above) leads a poised group of women in one of the most promising tennis seasons in LIU history.

ennis was back at it again on Saturday looking for their first win of the season as they traveled to the University of Massachusetts.

The Blackbirds were off to a rough start in the doubles department. Junior Taysha Blessington and freshman Sanne Louwers were defeated in their doubles

The Blackbirds are currently 0-2 on the season. The Blackbirds return home and back to action on Thursday, March 8 at 4:00 pm against Liberty.

With the first singles match of the day and the only win for the Blackbirds, Louwers took on Sonia Bokhari defeating her in the first set 0-6, losing the second set 6-4 and finally defeating her in the super tiebreaker 10-6. Yullana

Motyl defeated Blessington in two sets 6-2, 6-0. Lisa Mass came close to victory but fell short to Jessica Podlofsky in both sets 6-2, 6-4. Julia Comas defeated Pavlovic. 6-2,6-2. With the last two matches of the day, Zonneveld took on Chanel Glasper with both sets going to Glasper 6-2,6-2 while Thompson was defeated by Hazuki Onaga 6-2,6-0. UMASS secured the matches, 6-1. “We need to get in that grove and keep working towards the NEC,” Blessington said. The ladies return to match play next week as they head down to Florida for a five game match play.

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Baseball Splits Series With Canisius

BY: JOHN TOLIS

t was all about pitching for the Long Island University baseball team this past weekend as the Blackbirds (5-6) split the series against Canisius. They dropped the first two games of the series, but turned everything around in the final two games with stellar pitching performances and won both games by a score of 2-1. LIU freshman starter Matt Higginbotham was lights out in the first game of the double-header on Sunday as he shut down Canisius. He threw for six innings, allowed three hits, and struck out four. Higginbotham only allowed one run in the bottom of the sixth and left it in the hands of closer Evan Zerff, who secured the victory and his first save of the season. Thanks to Higginbotham’s impressive outing, the Blackbird line-up didn’t need much offense. They took the lead in the top of the sixth when freshmen Jesse Brown drove in shortstop Drew Walsh with a single. The Blackbirds attacked again in the top of the seventh when catcher Tyler Jones brought in outfielder Pete Leonello off a single, which would be the game-winner. In the second game of Sunday’s doubleheader, freshmen starter Jordan Wilcox didn’t allow LIU’s momentum and confidence to slip away. Wilcox pitched four innings, struck out three and allowed only one run. He allowed the run in the top of second, but kept his composure through the next innings. The Blackbirds got on the board in the bottom of the fourth when Walsh hit a sacrifice fly and tied up the game. The offense came back in the bottom of the seventh when first baseman Derek Stupski got on the bases, which set up outfielder Mike Garcia to hit a sacrifice fly and give the Blackbirds the 2-1 walkoff win. LIU relief pitcher Tito Marerro captured his first win as he pitched 1 1/3 innings. Two days before, LIU’s pitching was the issue as it got rattled in both games.

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Photo: LIU Athletics

Fresh Meat: Freshman Jesse Brown slugged his first homerun of the his LIU career over the centerfield wall while classmate Matt Higginbotham picked up his first career win after another lights out performance. The Blackbirds dropped the first game 8-5 and the second game 8-3. LIU junior Chris Franzese couldn’t handle Canisius’ strong offensive surge as he allowed seven hits, seven runs, and three walks in 6 1/3 innings. Even though he fanned six, he still got hit with his first loss of the season.

After scoring in the fourth, LIU’s Julian Castro hit a shot into left center and would be credited with a homerun after the outfielders collided that would give LIU a 5-4 lead in the fifth. The Griffins tied up in the bottom frame of the fifth and came out swinging in the seventh as they tacked on three more runs.

1-2 for the season.

LIU was first to get on the board early in the game as Brown hit his first career homerun and gave the Blackbirds a 2-0 lead. Then Canisius answered back in the bottom of the second to tie the game and scored two more runs in the third.

In the second game, Canisius got the best out of Blackbirds’ Matt McCormick and scored eight runs on the junior. McCormick allowed three runs in the second and five more in the fifth that made it harder for LIU’s line-up to get back in the game. McCormick falls to

The LIU Blackbirds return to action this Friday and will go up against Coppin State in Hanover, MD. They will face-off with Buffalo on Sunday.

The Blackbirds got on the board in the fourth when Walsh scored a run on a fielder’s choice and Garcia knocked in a run with a single. The Blackbirds scored again in fifth with a single off the bat of junior Chris Untereiner.

Softball Suffers Minor Setbacks in Citrus Classic BY: MICHAEL GARCIA

espite junior Megan Sheaf ’s two hits and freshman Madison Green’s RBI walk, the Blackbirds suffered a loss at the hands of Ball State, 8-1 in the final day of the Citrus Classic at Disney’s Wide World of Sports.

Photo: LIU Athletics

Ball State put the contest out of hand after a three-run homerun by Taylor Rager in the third and another threerun inning in the fourth. Long Island’s closest opportunity came as a result of BSU’s fourth inning outburst as Sheaf loaded the bases with a single. Green’s two out walk plated the lone run for the Blackbirds, who left nine on base. Although the Blackbirds loaded the bases the following inning, they lacked a run-producing hit and the contest was called due to travel schedules. Reynolds pitched all five innings and dropped to 1-10 on the season. Saturday was no different as the Blackbirds dropped two games to Notre Dame, 5-0 and later 5-2 to Virginia Tech. Against Notre Dame, Long Island would leave nine runners stranded while the Fighting Irish would tally four in the second and one in the third. Reynolds gave up nine hits while pitching the complete game. The Blackbirds only managed to tally two hits against Virginia Tech in addition to the two runs. Megan Sheaf took the mound for the Blackbirds pitching the full seven innings despite the loss.

Girls of Summer: Despite key injuries to sophomore Heather White and Lauren Morizi, the ladies have managed to find exceptional pitching from newcomer Cassie Vondrak and senior Sarah Reynolds and contributions from upperclassmen such as Karina Cervantes (right). Sophomore Cassie Vondrak delivered the single to plate Nichole Toven and junior Karina Cervantes who recorded Long Island’s first hit of the game. The Blackbirds also dropped their two contests on Friday, falling 13-5 to Lipscomb and 8-2 to Penn State. Reynolds got hit hard early in the first game as Lipscomb tallied seven runs in the two opening innings.

Cervantes went 2-4 while scoring one of Long Island’s three runs while junior Jazmin Rodriguez also recorded a hit and a run. Vondrak would come in relief for the remaining five innings allowing six runs, four earned.

apiece, while pinch runner senior

Penn State struck first in the afternoon contest, but Long Island would strike back with an RBI single from junior Emily Kakuska. Toven, Sheaf, Rodriguez and junior Brooklyn York all had a hit

The Blackbirds resume play in Clearwater, FL March 9-11 in the USF Under Armour Showcase Tournament.

Ari Calderon scored a run in place of Rodriguez. The Blackbirds left eight on base throughout the game while Sheaf would endure the loss.

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Women’s Basketball Sweeps Battle of Brooklyn BY: SHANEL GILBERT

nding their basketball season with a nail-biting 70-67 win over Fairleigh Dickinson, the lady Blackbirds were unable to progress further into their season. On March 3rd Long Island’s chance at the NEC title was cut short after the team fell to Monmouth 56-68 in the NEC quarterfinals. Senior Ashley Palmer led LIU with 18 points and ends her career as a Blackbird with the honors of being one of two players in Long Island history to score 2000 points and 1000 rebounds. Early in the contest both teams were neck and neck, Monmouth’s point guard Alexis Canady opened the scoring with a trey, but the Blackbirds scored three with 16:42 left in the first half before Monmouth was able to break free from LIU with another three pointer from Canady. Consecutive baskets from junior Ebony Davis and Palmer cut MU’s lead to 1311, but Monmouth responded with a 24-7 run that lasted over next nine minutes. The run built a 37-18 cushion and MU would go on to run away with the half to close the period 42-23. In the second half, MU stretched its lead to 24 points causing the Blackbirds to respond aggressively. Amazingly LIU was able to chisel away at the deficit to get back within six points with about seven minutes left on the clock. A 7-0 run that included five from Palmer and two from sophomore Cleandra Roberts helped the Blackbirds to get back into the game with another five straight points from junior Ebony Davis. Play-by-play Long Island clawed its way back within single digits after a threepoint play by senior Kiara Evans that sparked a 9-1 run for the Blackbirds pulling them within six at 56-50 with 6:31 left of game time.

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Photo: LIU Athletics Out with a Bang: Senior Ashley Palmer departs LIU as one of two players with 2000 points and 1000 rebounds in a career. She is joined by Ebony Davis and Kiara Evans. Over the next possession Monmouth’s Gabby Singer hit a three-pointer followed by a layup from teammate Abby Martin that pushed the lead back to double figures. The play stifled the Blackbirds attempts to take control of the night and the half closed with MU on top 56-68.

Evans also closes out her career after setting a single-season assists record as a sophomore. She also finished her three years at LIU Brooklyn as the alltime career leader with 448 assists. The graduating players are joined by classmates MaryAnn Abrams, She’tiarra Pledger and Marika Sprow. Davis finished with 16 points, 12

rebounds and four blocks, and closes out her season with a school-record of 60 blocks.

Men’s Hoops Topple Colonials for Conference Title BY: SHANEL GILBERT

Photo: Jeanette Dolmetsch

or the second straight NEC Championship game the Long Island University Blackbirds take the title again, downing Robert Morris 90-73 at the Wellness, Recreation and Athletic Center in a rematch of last year’s nail-biter. Junior C.J. Garner led the Blackbirds with 21 points and Long Island saw four players in double figures. LIU took advantage of a 13-0 run in the first half that help the team pull away from the Colonials to securing a consecutive berth at the NCAA tournament. “We had to come out aggressively,” said Head Coach Jim Ferry, “we had to set the physical and aggressive tone we were playing with.” Both teams started the contest aggressively as the night turned into a knock down drag out contest. The visitors were able to build a four-point lead over the Blackbirds but the point margin stayed relatively even as both teams traded baskets taking and losing the lead each time. LIU used a 13-0 run to turn a four-point deficit into a 28-19 lead. With 7:19 on the clock Garner hit a layup that tied the game for the second time in the half. Junior Jamal Olasewere dished out five straight points to give the Blackbirds cushion to play. Sophomore Jason Brickman also added a layup before Olasewere capped the run, two for two at the charity strip. Long Island would maintain its lead and closed the half 39-31 after a trey from junior Brandon Thompson. Up by six to start the half, the Blackbird continued to build momentum increasing its lead to as much as 14 points before coming into serious foul trouble with major contributors. Junior Julian Boyd, who went 2-3 from behind the arc, registered a double double with 18 points and 10 rebounds before being fouled out of the game along with Olasewere. However, with a minute and a half left to play the Blackbirds held a

Repeat: The Blackbirds go down in history as one of few schools to repeat as Conference Champions behind a highly talented group that is only losing one senior. comfortable lead with 11 points, which expanded to 17 points as LIU went to the charity strip possession after possession to close out the Championships 90-73. “Its every player’s dream to be in the NCAA tournament, but its not all fun and games,” said Olasewere, “we actually do want to win a game.” Brickman matched a career-high with 18 points, he added 10 assists for his fifth double double of the season, which set an NEC championship game record, as well as his 29 assists during the tournament. Boyd also added 18 points and 10 boards and Olasewere, chipped in 12 points followed by Culpo with 11 points.

“Jason is one of the best point guards I’ve played with throughout my career,” said Garner, “its a pleasure being on the court with him. He just find you in the right spots.” The win is the 26th consecutive win at the Wellness Center for the Blackbirds and is the second longest streak in the nation. Previously in the tournament, Long Island dealt an 80-68 loss to Sacred Heart in the quarterfinals. Boyd finished the night with 26 points and six rebounds while Olasewere closed with 20 points and eight rebounds. Brickman recorded his fourth double double of the season with 12 points and 13 assists.

The Blackbirds also downed Quinnipiac in a nail bitter with 78-75 overcoming an eight-point deficit. Led by Boyd with 21 points, the Blackbirds overcame an eight-point deficit to end the night victorious. “We know there are players that think we are down by eight so it’s over,” said Olasewere, “but we know its not over ‘til the clock hits zero

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