SEAWANHAKA-02-02-2012 by SEAWANHAKA PRESS

Seawanhaka Staff CONTACT

Seawanhaka Press 1 University Plaza #S-219 Brooklyn, NY 11201 SeawanhakaPress@gmail.com 718.488.1591

MABEL MARTINEZ

Editor-In-Chief

JOB 9-199 BUS SHELTERS BROOKLYN 11.8125 X 17.1 (1/4 SIZE ––– FINAL 47.25 X 68.40 LIVE AREA 45.5 X 67 DCW - BUS SHELTERS

FIND OUT HOW GOOD YOU REALLY ARE.

Editorial Policies

NANCY UWOGHIREN

Managing Editor

LINDSEY WALKER

Advertising Policies

News Editor

SHARI STRAKER

Arts & Entertainment Growing up in Hawaii, my two passions were sports and health care. LIU Brooklyn gave me the chance to do both. I am now a three-time Northeast Conference champion and a registered respiratory therapist. - Erica Chong, Class of 2008

MICHAEL GARCIA

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY

liu.edu

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.

Sports Editor

Display and classified advertisements are available to the general public, Long Island University clubs and students. For rate and schedule information, call 718.488.1519. Advertising is not free fornLIU organizations. Ads should be submitted to the Seawanhaka Press Room or Student Activities Office. Students, faculty and staff must submit a copy of their ID along with the proposed advertisement. Seawanhaka reserves the right to edit ads for length and style. We also reserve the right to refuse those we feel are unfit to print.

Staff Writers

COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND SUGGESTIONS SEND US AN EMAIL AT SEAWANHAKAPRESS@GMAIL.COM

CURTIS STEPHEN

Faculty Advisor

SEAWANHAKA PRESS SWHKPRESSLIUBK LIUSEAWANHAKA

Page 3- LIU’S LGBTQ Community Raises Voice Page 5- Bedbugs in the Health Science Building Page 5- Campus Camera Page 6- Professionalism 101 Page 7- Color Barrier at LIU? No. Page 7- Black History Month: Is It Still Relevant?

RICHARD NAU Layout & Design Advisor

CONTENT

Page 8- State of the Union Address ---Ever Strong Page 9- L.I.U. Thyroid Awareness Month Page 10- Career Services Page 12- LIU’S Got Talent Page 13- Runway To Win Page 13- Entertainment Weekly

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 14- Student Life & Leadership Development Page 16- Softball is Back in Brooklyn Page 17- Blackbirds Bowl for 12th in Kutztown Page 18- Women’s Hoops Victorious at Wagner Page 19- Men’s Basketball Conquers St. Francis

THE BUZZ...

Alliances made, Safe Zone established, and LGBTQ Community Raises its Voice BY: LINDSEY WALKER

and understand,” said Abolencia, “But they can’t really relate.”

Campus Events With the school year rapidly starting, free time will soon be limited. So enjoy the smaller things, like movie night in the Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts. On February 7, 2011 the Center for Communication and Kumble Theater at LIU Brooklyn will present the prerelease screening of “Brooklyn Boheme.” It is a documentary created by Nelson George and Diane Pargas that takes a look back at the Fort Greene neighborhood from the 1980s to ‘90s. The documentary shows interviews of famous celebrities such as: Spike Lee, Chris Rock, Rosie Perez and many more. It is free admission, to R.S.V.P. go to www.kumbletheater.org or call (718) 488-1624. On February 8, 2012 Avena Lounge is having karaoke night from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. A DJ will be there to provide the latest hits and beats from Hip-Hop to Reggae to keep the party going. So come by and test your vocal talents with the best of the L.I.U. Blackbirds. The school has plenty to offer, so pick up the paper next week and find out what else is new!

By Nancy Uwoghiren

SO NOW YOU KNOW

or the first time in over a decade, LIU’s LGBTQ community has created a presence and is making it known. More and more students, faculty, and administrators are speaking out against homophobia and working to increase awareness of LGBTQ issues on campus. With the recent establishment of both the Queer-Straight Alliance (QSA) and the Safe Zone program on campus, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning students (more commonly referenced with the umbrella term LGBTQ) are beginning to rise up together in support of gay rights and a safer, freer Brooklyn campus. Victoria Abolencia, a junior biochemistry major and Watson Fellowship recipient, is at the forefront of the student LGBTQ movement on campus. She came to LIU as a freshman in 2009 expecting to find some sort of LGBTQ support system in place, but was bitterly disappointed. As a lesbian student, Abolencia yearned for an identifiable body which was representative and supportive of the LGBTQ community on her campus, an alliance of peers with whom to relate and collectively face the issues that inevitably come with being a queer college student, and a queer person in general. “I found that, wherever I went, there weren’t many people that could really relate to me whenever I spoke about LGBTQ issues. People can listen

As a sophomore in the fall of 2010, she took initiative and created that support system. After a great shove and jumping through of hoops, the Queer-Straight Alliance was inaugurated as an official club, and Abolencia, its founding mother, was voted in as its first President. She retains that post today after this year’s reelection. Courtney Frederick, director of the Academic Reinforcement Center (ARC), serves as QSA’s faculty advisor as well as a founding member of the Safe Zone program. The QSA is roughly 50 percent LGBTQ students and 50 percent allies, or straight students in support of LGBTQ rights. Throughout the year, various workshops are held with different themes, and last year, faculty members were invited to hold discussions and tell their stories. Abolencia said, “It was good because the members were able to develop connections with the professors. And while many members were kind of scared to come out, they had new confidence because there were all these professors who were willing to come out and say, ‘hey, I’m gay and I’m a professional, I teach you’.” On top of the meetings and discussions, the QSA will also be hosting events to help raise awareness of LGBTQ issues. Already, they took part in coming out day in Mid-October, encouraging LGBTQ students to come out, share their stories, and be themselves. On April 20th, the day of silence recognized across the nation, will be observed. Members of the QSA, however, feel that it should be countered with their own day of voices. Ciara Diaz, a freshman student and active ally of QSA said, “Some of us feel like silence isn’t the best tool, but that speaking out is the best tool.” The students, however, are not the only ones speaking out and standing up for

LGBTQ right on campus. Several faculty members and administrators, upon their initial arrival at LIU, experienced a similar shock to that of Abolencia’s when the lack of LGBTQ support was discovered. Among the most astonished was psychology professor, Dr. Sara Haden. “The schools that I went to, University of Virginia and Virginia Tech, all had safe zones and a larger LGBTQ center of some sort,” Dr. Haden explained, “so I was so happy to come here to New York and live in Brooklyn, and then I searched and searched at LIU Brooklyn and found there was nothing, and I was just shocked.” In the past, LIU has made daring yet unfruitful attempts to create more of a LGBTQ community on campus. In 1992, LIU established a gender studies center, but it was unable to remain in existence due to people’s fear of the word gender and the areas of study it encompassed, such as queer sexuality. Dr. Harriet Malinowitz, a professor of English at LIU and a founding director of the women’s studies program said, “The center served no purpose because it was afraid to serve any real purpose.” In the late 90’s, a student run gay and lesbian club known as the Skittles Entente was created, but that soon died out as well. As the community fragmented during that period, LGBTQ rights and issues went largely unrepresented at LIU. At the end of Fall 2010, faculty members and administrators decided it was high time to recreate the effort to make Brooklyn campus a safe and comfortable place for all LGBTQ students. Dr. Malinowitz said, “Sara’s shock upon entering [LIU Brooklyn] was very important. It was really a breath of fresh air to have her come here and be shocked and motivated and be a mover and shaker.” Out of the genuine concern, debate, and

>> Pg. 4 Page 3

LIU’s LGBTQ Raises its Voice (continued from pg.3) endless toil of several founding faculty members and administrators, including Dr. Haden and Dr. Malinowitz, the Safe Zone program was implemented in May of 2011. Pasted on the office doors and windows of about thirty faculty members and administrators around campus is a subtle yet unique symbol: a yellow sun with multi-colored triangular shaped rays encircling an image of the Brooklyn Blackbird clutching the LIU logo above the words, “SAFE ZONE.” This symbol is an indication of a safe zone area, and that whomever works in that office has undergone the necessary training to become a member of the Safe Zone program. A safe zone is a judgmentfree zone in which any student suffering from LGBTQ issues, knows someone who is suffering, or simply needs someone to speak to, may find refuge. According to its mission statement, “Safe Zone representatives serve as contacts for individuals on campus with questions or concerns related to sexual orientation and gender identity,

members’ request, he created a focus group to help determine the best way to approach and communicate with LGBTQ students. Parker said, “I have heard about so many gay suicides on the news over the last year. It makes me wonder, if they had that person to talk to and trust, would things have been different? The Safe Zone could be a really good platform for communication.”

Photo Above: Victoria Abolencia whether of self or of a friend or family member. The goal of the program is to promote a safe and free campus for all students.” Tajuan Parker, a senior Media Arts photography major was one of the first students to help initiate the Safe Zone program last year. At the founding

Though the implementation of the program is an achievement in and of itself, Tom Price, Director of Sophomore Year Programs, another founder of the Safe Zone program, suggests that it is only the first step. The collective hope is for the Safe Zone and Queer-Straight Alliance to spur new initiatives and open doors to more opportunities and resources for the LGBTQ community in the future. “When we first started having discussion about a safe zone, all these different ideas came out about what we should have and why we don’t have this or that,” Price said, “we decided as a starting point that we have to have a safe zone first because it’s about students and making students feel

Through Their Eyes on LGBTQ:

BY: LINDSEY WALKER

safe. That’s an obligation to make.” Price further explained the current lack of funding for program. There is virtually no budget to support webinars, guest speakers, or other potential educational resources. Right now, the members are working to create better funding for the program so that more initiatives may be pursued in the future. Dr. Malinowitz, a former board member of the lesbian and gay studies at CUNY, hopes that through these new efforts, the campus will be able to incorporate more LGBTQ courses into the curricula, and eventually sustain its own queer studies program. As for the Queer-Straight Alliance, Victoria Abolencia’s future aspirations for it are simple. “I just hope it’s talked about,” she said, “that it’s not just ‘the gay club’. I just hope it can comfortably be at the face of LIU.”

Shamone Nevison, Freshman

Tajuan Parker, Senior

Ciara Diaz, Freshman

“The QSA has helped to alleviate many issues that LGBT students on campus face. The qsa needs to be seen, it needs to be heard. It gives straight people a chance to look and realize we do have a community and we people are just like them.”

“The gay life is not simple in any way. It’s because ignorance isn’t frowned upon when it comes to homosexuality. It’s actually often invited. It would help if there were more individuals willing to speak their truths and open up about their own personal lives. A support system gives you more confidence in being who you are.”

“My mother is a lesbian. When I was younger I didn’t understand it and I had difficulty dealing with it. When I grew up, I realized how prejudiced people are and how kids are treated as a result of what they are and it’s not fair. I like being a part of QSA because I like lending my voice and being a part of this community. I like standing out because I’m proud of my mother.”

Page 4

For more information regarding the Queer-Straight Alliance or the Safe Zone Program: QSA Blog: www.qsaliubk.blogspot.com Twitter: @qsa_liubk Safe Zone Program For a complete list of safe zones on campus, visit: www.facebook.com/ liubrooklynsafezone.com

Bedbugs in the Health Science Building

ed bugs have infested the Health Science building! The small blood sucking vermin have set pharmacy students into a panic. On Monday January 23, a concerned pharmacy student noticed a small dot moving across the floor as she ate her breakfast. Intrigued, she picked up the bug and examined it as it crawled all over her hand. She quickly notified another student, who informed her that it resembled a bed bug. With a simple Google search, she discovered it was indeed a bed bug. The class was cancelled due to the students’ and professor’s discomfort with yet another infestation of bed bugs.

dry. All three rooms on the first floor and several other floors in the HS building.”

The assistant dean of academic and student affairs, Lorraine Cicero, was informed by two students of the situation and told students, “Class will be held as scheduled the next day in the HS rooms. If there is any last minute change emails would be sent but in the meantime plan on a regular day of class.”

The primary concern and medical importance of bed bug bites is the inflammation caused by their bites from an allergic reaction to the components in the saliva of the bed bug. Allergic reactions caused by the bed bugs can be so severe that they leave behind enormous wheals.

The dean immediately contacted Building and Grounds, which checked the remaining rooms in the HS building for bed bugs. “A biodegradable spray was used to exterminate the bed bugs which only takes about 15 minutes to

Bed bugs can hide in a number of places which make them hard to detect. There small flattened bodies allow them to hide in the oddest of places like behind the chips of paint in your room, the lining of your luggage, and on your

Bed bugs are small, nocturnal, wingless insects that feed on human blood and other warm-blooded animals. They are oval shaped insects that can grow up to 4-5 millimeters long when fully grown. Their skin color is rust brown to a deeper red brown. According to Orkin, bug control, and CDC, bed bug bites can cause irritation and infections. Bedbug bites can become itchy and may leave red bumps and marks, and they appear in tight lines of multiple, small, red marks.

clothes. A pharmacy student stated “…we were not informed of the precautions to take when bed bugs are found.” Their clothes have to be dryed in high heat to prevent the spreading of the bed bugs. Even though classes were cancelled at the time, students may have carried a few bugs to other areas of the school or even home. Bed bugs have been found before in LIU. Last year, they were found in the dorms and other areas. More and more reports of bedbug infestations have been reported around the Brooklyn area. There was even a bedbug infestation just a couple of blocks down at NYU’s polytechnic Institute. The truth is, bed bugs are easy to prevent. Well if you do not know how to prevent bed bugs try Ehow.com easy steps: 1. Treat your furniture with insecticides to get rid of any possible bed bugs. Basic insecticide spray will get rid of any on the furniture, but insecticide dust will get them where they hide. 2. Inspect all places in your house that

BY: NANCY UWOGHIREN are warm, close to human contact and have plenty of hiding spaces. This includes mattresses, carpeting, pillows and sofa beds, as well as behind chairs and dressers. 3. Cover your mattress in plastic. This will prevent any bugs from getting in or out. 4. Consider getting rid of any old furniture if you can. If there is the chance any bugs remain, this will help prevent them from multiplying in your home again. 5. Seal and repair any cracks on your home’s exterior to prevent bugs from entering. Install or repair window screens to keep birds or rodents, who may have bugs on them, from getting in. 6. Clean your house regularly, reducing clutter and even vacuuming the mattresses. This may not completely prevent bed bugs, but it will reduce their hiding places. 7. Check any furniture you buy secondhand, especially mattresses. Also, inspect all luggage and clothing that comes into your home, especially if you have traveled outside North America.

Campus Camera: What Is Your Reaction to Bedbugs on Campus?

BY: NANCY UWOGHIREN

Darwin Garcia, Junior, Philosophy

Isoken Agho, 1st year, Pharmacy

Nate Hunt, Junior, Dance

“I think it’s very detrimental to health of the students and the administration. They should immediately fix it. But knowing them, that will take a while. We are a private university with an $68 million endowment yet they aren’t focused on the central issues.”

“I had class in one of the rooms that was “under investigation” that morning. In the afternoon they cancelled all classes in the three rooms for the rest of the day. Personally, I was disgusted. but I think that they (the School of Pharmacy) did a good job of fixing and preventing the spread as best they could.”

“The main contribution to the problem are students and faculty. They have to be aware of where they are placing their belongings. We see there are rats everywhere in New York, so we have to assume that there is even worse out there.”

Dana Hash- Campbell, Dance Coordinator of Performing Arts Dept. “I am shocked about the bed bugs and I’m very disturbed. I wish the campus community was properly notified about the situation.”

Page 5

Professionalism 101: Getting Your Foot in the Door BY: ANTHONY LOUIS you. In order for you to build a great network and reputation, you need to get into the nature of professional habits: sending holiday e-cards to past or current connections, keeping in touch with professionals, getting involved with exclusive organizations and clubs, attending public speakings and conferences, or even the simple habit of reading independently.

Photo Credit: www.toonpool.com

imes are truly changing in America, but would you be shocked if you found it that employers were beginning to take different measures?—I know I wouldn’t. This is a sensitive era in the job market and as competition steepens, employers are doing what they can to “find the needle in the haystack”. What does this necessarily mean? Companies are taking more distinct and performanceseeking approaches in finding, out of the booming number of applicants, the ideal candidate for the job. Most job seekers would find this to be disappointing and quite strange news, but viewing it at a quainter angle it may mean bad for most and good for some. All this new approach is doing is narrowing down the talent—the good talent that is. Some employers believe that resumes don’t provide much depth about a job candidate. More companies are looking at other performance-oriented material that would give them a clearer perception of the candidate, i.e. social media sites, such as LinkedIn, blogs, and

Page 6

personal websites, and also short video submissions illustrating a brief and succinct demonstration of your work and expertise. It narrows even more so, as companies are also being forced to make cuts in certain sectors and departments—some are planning to trim 20%-30% of its workforce in 2012—in order to comply with slimming company profits.

Reading is the common tenet of any established individual. Independent reading not only instills discipline, it exercises and molds your mind, and also stimulates your thought processes. By reading consistently, you will find yourself thinking more logically, wisely, and on a broader level; it would act as a great appendage to your developing skills. Nothing too excessive is necessary, possibly a short read for 15-30 minutes a night would suffice. Another common initiative I would consider as a student is carrying business cards. Business cards are the ideal tool you would want to have in order to impress employers and professionals. Not only they convey a message of professionalism, they also bridge the gap between a brief acquaintance and what could possibly be a long-term relationship.

Recent graduates are finding it rather difficult to find work of course, but some at the college level can take a look at the reform from a safe distance. This is a great time for ready graduates, or any student for that matter, to prepare for their approaching careers. I encourage students to take interventions now, that’ll shape them as better job candidates. Internships and experience is important, but working on your soft and core skills, while building a network of professionals as you go along, is a surefire way to secure a career. These soft and core skills include: communicating, networking, building your professional reputation, presentation, etc… By building a network, you may leave college with a job actually waiting for

Photo Credit: www.Ftmdaily.com

Business cards are quite difficult to make when you are in college provided that you haven’t started a career yet. Furthermore, getting the right card stock is essential as well. When having a business card, you don’t want it to be flimsy, cheap, or appear unprofessional. Something of high-quality premium should do. The design should be simple, yet professional—you don’t want it to appear dull. It should consist of your full name, hometown, a professional email address, possibly a number, and website if you are comfortable. If you are a standard student, I would suggest that the header read the college or university in which you attend, and your area of study if necessary. I have seen some students set an example by including a professional quote on the back of the card. Business cards are a representation of you—never sell yourself short! As we slip into a job-critical era, we have to do what we can as students to make a strong stand competitively. “Think of yourself as on the threshold of unparalleled success. A whole, clear, glorious life lies before you. Achieve! Achieve!”- Andrew Carnegie

Color Barrier at LIU? No. Photo Credit: www.blackfives.com

very now and then, an archivist gets a question that can be answered definitively and with sustainable research. And it’s a question that’s particularly poignant not only during Black History Month, but all year long. The question: “Who broke the color barrier at Long Island University?” The answer: “There was no color barrier at Long Island University.” In fact, LIU was firmly founded, in 1926, on the principle of non-discrimination.

Here’s how it evolved – Ralph Jonas, Brooklyn lawyer, businessman and civic leader had been guiding the efforts to create a private university in Brooklyn. In February 1927, he announced a considerable contribution to the endowment fund that, in effect, launched the school. He made it clear that his gift was contingent upon the establishment of equality of opportunity as a basic admissions policy. No one was to be refused admission to Long Island University because of race or religion. In 1927, this was a trailblazing concept. The first dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at LIU, George Hardie, underlined this concept with this statement to the press: “The College of Liberal Arts will be liberal in fact as well as in name......It will exercise no discrimination because of race or creed....” In those first years, the university attracted students from its neighboring communities, first-generation Americans who were for the most part Eastern-European, Jewish and Italian. As the city’s population grew diverse, so did the student body of LIU. Then, as I combed through the early

BY: JANET MARKS yearbooks, I began to see black students in the pages. There was Lucille Harrison (as described in the 1936 issue of the Sound yearbook) with this prim inscription under her photo: Industrious and keenly brained/And pretty too, withal.....” There was Frank Mitchell on the baseball team and there was William King on the basketball team (1937 Sound). In fact, William “Dolly” King deserves an article all his home. A plaque on our Wall of Fame lauds this captain of the football team and outstanding basketball player as “....the greatest all-around athlete in school history.” By the time I got to the 1948 edition of Sound, there were a striking number of black students. Many of the young men were World War II veterans (the G.I. Bill was a boon to vets of all races – and, not so incidentally, a boon to the school). As were all the returning men, the black vets were serious, earnest students, all going on to graduate after having distinguished themselves at LIU. One young man, C.W. Herndon, had been editor of Sound, editor of Review, and president of the journalism club. That same year, 1948, the activities

section of the yearbook, carried a photo of a local NAACP chapter. All of the above was also confirmed for me by Mary M. Lai, a veritable walking encyclopedia of LIU history. Lai, class of 1941, has worked for the university for over 60 years – including a stint as the first woman to serve as LIU’s chief financial officer. She still has every fact and figure at the ready. Lai had fond memories of her multiracial classmates. She stopped only to single out a single classmate from 1941, who majored in history, went on to become a judge and was named a Distinguished Alumnus in 1970. In 1974, he received an honorary degree from LIU. He’s the Hon. Franklin W. Morton Jr. – who still actively supports his alma mater. When LIU celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2001, we published a book on its history – Long Island University 75 Years: Access and Excellence. It’s a remarkable historical record, offering many and enduring lessons for the entire LIU community today. Janet Marks is an archivist at Long Island University’s Brooklyn Campus.

Black History Month: Is It Still Relevant?

s Black History Month still relevant? It’s a question that some people are once again posing this February. But Black History Month should be memorable. As a Black-American, it’s the moment to recognize the achievements of those who came before you. It was once said that in order to understand the present, you must learn your history. It’s no secret that the lives and experiences of Black-Americans had been seen as inferior for centuries. Many are not aware that Blacks were practically non-existent in history books until the 20th century. But that began to change thanks to Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who is the mastermind behind the movement to publicly

recognize Black History. In 1926, Woodson started what was known as “Negro History Week.” Woodson was disturbed by the nation’s educational system’s failure to include the contributions of African-Americans. Blacks weren’t documented unless it was in reference to slavery. Woodson decided that he would challenge the system by co-founding the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. The group is now known as the Study of Afro-American Life and History. The nature of the organization involved researching the history of BlackAmericans and writing about their highlights and achievements. The result was to gain Blacks a respectable

mention in history. “Negro History Week” eventually became Black History Month. Woodson chose the month of February since it coincides with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and the activist Frederick Douglass. By overcoming slavery, segregation and earning the right to vote, BlackAmericans have struggled against violence, oppression and Jim Crow. Black History Month represents inspiration and education. It also shows many enduring lessons to address the issues of today. Although Blacks have reached many milestones through perseverance, it’s still a struggle for Blacks to gain respect as a race. Even more upsetting, future generations are losing interest in the true meaning of

BY: BRITTANY GANTER

Black History Month. That’s why it’s imperative for the month-long tribute to continue to build its legacy. As a race, Blacks have every right to feel empowered and uplifted based on the lessons of the past, but the entire country should too. People such as Booker T. Washington, Sojourner Truth, Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, along with many others, paved the way for a better future for us all. History of this magnitude helped to shape society as we know it. Is Black History Month still relevant? Of course it is. Although it’s only one month of recognition on a grand scale, Black-Americans should be proud to be Black every day.

Page 7

State of the Union Address --- Ever Strong

resident Obama made his annual State of the Union address on Tuesday, January 24th. In his speech, President Obama stated that “the basic American promise” that hard work can allow one to own a home and support a family is at risk if the government does not do more to balance the scale between the nation’s rich and poor. “The defining issue of our time is how to keep that promise alive. No challenge is more urgent. No debate is more important,” Obama declared, “We can either settle for a country where a shrinking number of people do really well, while a growing number of Americans barely get by. Or we can restore an economy where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules. What’s at stake are not Democratic values or Republican values, but American values. We have to reclaim them.” This will set the tone for his 2012 reelection bid for the Presidency. Barack Obama has become steadily more assertive, but he will have to push even harder. The State of the Union was a chance to do that and he did not squander it. A year ago, after the last State of the Union address, many people applauded President Obama for challenging the Republicans’ blame government, slashand-burn rhetoric. He explained why Washington must do more to help put millions of struggling people back to work and why any credible plan to wrestle down the deficit must include the wealthy paying a fairer share of taxes. After a rough start to 2011, economic numbers have improved, and President Obama has pushed Congress to extend the payroll tax cut and unemployment benefits and outlined an ambitious jobs agenda. However, the country’s problems are profound. There are 13.1 million unemployed, and the risk of

Page 8

stagnation is real. He sounded many of the same themes as last year, but his tone was sharper and he was far more willing to apportion blame, particularly singling out the financial industry for its excesses and politicians who are still determined to defend tax cuts for the rich and undo desperately needed financial regulations. “We can either settle for a country where a shrinking number of people do really well, while a growing number of Americans barely get by,” he said, “or we can restore an economy where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules.” The President has called to deny tax breaks to companies that outsource and provide a tax credit to companies that bring jobs back home.

Photo Credit: Google Images

A real challenge will be to ensure that those repatriated jobs are good-paying jobs. He called for better job training and education, but a skills gap is not the main problem. Employers are not going to do a lot more hiring until consumers buy more products. Demand is unlikely to recover until Congress agrees to more federal spending, including aid to states for hiring. Obama’s idea to use half of the savings from winding down the wars for publicworks projects could possibly put hundreds of thousands back to work Mr. Obama has pushed banks and Congress to make it easier for borrowers who are current in their payments to refinance. On Tuesday night he called, finally, for a full investigation of the lending abuses that inflated the bubble and led to the crash. That is the best hope for getting meaningful redress for borrowers.

BY: RYAN SAHADEO

In addition to his longstanding call to let the high-end Bush-era tax cuts expire, Mr. Obama called for a “Buffett rule” to ensure that millionaires pay an effective rate of at least 30 percent, ensuring that they never pay less than the middle class. “You can call this class warfare all you want,” he said. “But asking a billionaire to pay at least as much as his secretary in taxes? Most Americans would call that common sense.” Over the last year, Americans have become more aware of the deep inequities in the economy and of the government’s responsibility to act. Mr. Obama deserves some of the credit for that, but it has a lot more to do with the unrelenting tough times and the efforts of Occupy Wall Street and other protests. What Americans want now is strong political leadership.

L.I.U. Thyroid Awareness Month

BY: DR. RALPHNIE EDMOND

in the blood to normal. Defects in these regulatory pathways may result in hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid problem) or hyperthyroidism (over active thyroid problem). Thyroid Symptoms: Symptoms of hypothyroidism include: - Easy fatigue, exhaustion - Poor tolerance to cold temperatures - Constipation -Carpal tunnel syndrome (pain at the wrists and numbness of the hands) Late symptoms

Photo Credit: www.askgeorgie.com

he thyroid gland is located on the front part of the neck below the thyroid cartilage for men known as an adam’s apple. Primary function of gland is to produces thyroid hormones, which regulate body metabolism. Thyroid hormones are important in regulating body energy, the body’s use of other hormones and vitamins, and the growth and maturation of body tissues. Diseases of the thyroid gland can result in either hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid disease) hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid disease).

To prevent the overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormones, the pituitary gland can sense how much hormones is in the blood and adjust the production of hormones accordingly. For example, when there is too much thyroid hormone in the blood, your TSH production decreased. The sum effect of this is to decrease the amount of TSH released from the pituitary gland and to reduce production of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland to restore the amount of thyroid hormone

- Poor Appetite -Weight gain - Dry Skin - Hair loss - Intellectual ability worsens - Deeper, hoarse voice - Puffiness around the eyes - Depression - Irregular menstrual or lack of menstrual cycle Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: - Insomnia - Hand tremors - Nervousness Late symptoms : -Feeling excessively hot in normal or

cold temperatures -Frequent bowel movements -Losing weight despite normal or increased appetite -Excessive sweating -Menstrual cycle becomes scant, or ceases - Joint pains - Difficulty concentrating - Eyes seem to be enlarge Medication for Hypothyroidism

Hyperthyroidism/

Common medication taken depending on the person diagnosed is Iodide. Iodide medication works by inhibiting the release of thyroid hormone from the over functioning thyroid gland. Common side effects include nausea. L-thyroxine (Synthroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid, Unithroid) this medication is the mainstay of thyroid hormone replacement therapy in hypothyroidism. It is a synthetic form of thyroxine. This is exactly the same hormone that the thyroid makes. Recommendation- Anyone diagnosed with grave’s disease should stop smoking immediately because smoking increases the risk of progression to Grave’s eye disease. Follow the medication schedule prescribed by your physician.

Page 9

Check Out Career Servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Great Upcoming Events! Simulation: A Day in the Life of a Foreign Service Officer

Mr. Tom Armbruster, Senior Foreign Service Officer of the U.S. State Department, is returning to campus to lead a simulation exercise in which participants take on various Foreign Service Officer's roles in planning a US Presidential visit overseas. A Presidential visit overseas can have a lasting impact on relations between the United States and the host country. This "Game Day" will emphasize the role the Officer plays in foreign relations. Thurs., Feb. 9th, 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Location: TBD RSVP in MyCareerKey is required. Space is limited to 20 students and participants must be available to attend entire session! We will establish a waiting list, should participants cancel.

"Social Media and Your Job Search" Workshop

Cara Friedman, General Manager, Likeable Media Social Networking - you most likely use it every day. Learn how to use it effectively and professionally in your job search and to market yourself to employers. Careers involving social media will also be discussed! Tues., Feb. 14th, 11:00 am - noon Location: H206 Registration on MyCareerKey is strongly encouraged.

Page 10

Domino’s

NEW

Stuffed Cheesy Bread

it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Nuevo Stuffed Cheesy Bread de Domino’s . ®

es Lo de adentRo Lo Que cuenta.

Cheese Only Sólo Queso Spinach & Feta Espinaca & Queso Feta

Medium �-Topping Pizza Pizza Mediana con � Ingredientes

Bacon & Jalapeno Tocino & Jalapeño

1-888-doMinos

Spanish ordering only. Sólo para pedidos en español.

• •

MediuM 2-toPPinG PiZZas stuFFed cheesY BReads

$ 99

choose anY two 2-item minimum. We suggest more.

Spanish ordering available. Pedidos disponibles en español.

doMinos.coM

escoGe dos

each c/u

• •

PiZZas Medianas 2 inGRedientes stuFFed cheesY BReads

Mínimo de 2 productos. Nosotros sugerimos que pidas más.

9179

Any delivery charge is not a tip paid to your driver. Our drivers carry less than $20. You must ask for this limited time offer. Minimum purchase required for delivery. Prices, participation, delivery area and charges may vary. Returned checks, along with the state’s maximum allowable returned check fee, may be electronically presented to your bank. ©2012 Domino’s IP Holder LLC. Domino’s®, Domino’s Pizza® and the modular logo are registered trademarks of Domino’s IP Holder LLC.

Valid with coupon only at participating stores.

40392_04DOM_ROP_NYNJSW_013112.indd 1

2-Item Minimum. Limited Time Offer. Mínimo de 2 Productos. Oferta Por Tiempo Limitado. Valid with coupon only at participating stores.

2 or More Large 2-Topping Pizzas 2 o Más Pizzas Grandes Con 2 Ingredientes Minimum 2 Pizza Purchase. Deep Dish & Specialty Pizzas May Be Extra. Limited Time Offer. Compra Mínima 2 Pizzas. La Deep Dish y Las Pizzas de Especialidades Pueden Costar Extra. Oferta Por Tiempo Limitado. Valid with coupon only at participating stores.

DOMINO’S ARTISAN™ PIZZAS

799

each! ¡cada una!

9178

Choose Any Domino’s Artisan™ Pizza Escoge Cualquier Pizza Artesanal de Domino’s® Try All 3 for $21.99/ Prueba las 3 por $21.99

8527 Limited Time Offer. Oferta Por Tiempo Limitado. Valid with coupon only at participating stores.

Cash value 1/20¢. Prices may vary. Tax may apply. Minimum purchase required.

Pizzas Medianas Con 2 Ingredientes o Domino’s® Stuffed Cheesy Breads

5384

Cash value 1/20¢. Prices may vary. Tax may apply. Minimum purchase required.

9179

Medium 2-Topping Pizzas OR Domino’s® Stuffed Cheesy Breads

Cash value 1/20¢. Prices may vary. Tax may apply. Minimum purchase required.

Minimum 3 Item Purchase. Deep Dish May Be Extra. Limited Time Offer. Compra Mínima de 3 Productos. La Deep Dish Puede Costar Extra. Oferta Por Tiempo Limitado.

Cash value 1/20¢. Prices may vary. Tax may apply. Minimum purchase required.

Delivery charge may apply. Limited delivery areas.

Escoge 3 o Más Domino’s Pasta Masa-Bowls, Sándwiches Horneados o Pizzas Medianas Con 1 Ingrediente Por $5.55 Cada Una ®

each! ¡cada una!

Delivery charge may apply. Limited delivery areas.

8444

Choose 3 or More Domino’s® BreadBowl Pastas, Oven Baked Sandwiches & Medium 1-Topping Pizzas

599

each! ¡cada una!

Delivery charge may apply. Limited delivery areas.

each! ¡cada una!

799

555

CHOOSE ANY TWO OR MORE

HAZ TU MIX

MIX-N-MATCH

BROOKLYN 328 Myrtle Ave.

718-522-3733 Page 11

40392_04DOM_ROP_NYNJSW_013112

1/20/12 1:34 PM

LIU’s Got Talent

BY: MICHELLE LAWTON

participation and judges’ approval, which in the end allowed him to win the crowd over and humbly pocket the grand prize of $500 cash.

Many students and faculty members of LIU proudly showcased their many unique abilities. The Kumble Theater was filled with music, dance, magic and comedy. One contestant was able to take over the crowd with his melodic lyrics, catchy hooks and fearless charm.

Besides K-Flex, the performances were very competitive. The opening act, Oninye Gabriel, a pharmacy student, sang and played the piano with a flow that portrayed a comfort level that was undeniable. The Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Professor of Pharmaceutics, Dr. Anthony J. Cutie, who also played the role of judging the talent show, commended Gabriel for making the decision of being the first contestant.

atient Care is the chant that could be heard throughout the Long Island University Brooklyn Campus’ Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts this past Friday. The Pharmacy Student Leadership Council and Student Government Association presented “LIU’s Got Talent Student and Faculty Talent Show.”

Kelvin “K-Flex” Rolling, School of Health Profession’s student, came out to perform wearing an old school Jordan matching outfit with Retro Jordan sneakers that matched his traditional Hip-hop persona. K-Flex performed two songs, “Never Comin’ Back” and the unforgettable “Patient Care” which was inspired by a brief Kings County hospital experience that K-Flex expressed to the audience. Throughout his performance, K-Flex was able to encourage positive audience

Page 12

The performances did not fall short after Gabriel. Dean Emeritus of the Arnold and Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Science, Stephen M. Gross, was the night’s magician. With comical presence, Gross wowed the audience with his fire napkin trick and his orange card trick. Robert DiGregorio, Gregory Stein, Kimberly Sarosky and Eric Somer, all professors of the Arnold and Marie Schwartz college of Pharmacy and Health Science formed the band, “Left on DeKalb.” They performed their numbers and left the audience wanting more.

A shocker for the audience and the host, Matthew “Preach” McDowell, came from School of Business student, Ricky Brackett. His voice was steady, deep and strong. It forced the audience to give him their undivided attention as he sang his version of “A One in a Million You.” A huge crowd favorite was the final dancing act, “Fantastic Five (and a Guy)” which was made up of Pharmacy students, Isha Gupta, Vandana Magnani, Mansi Patel, Farhana Sarwar, Manali Shah, and Nadeem Abdin. “Fantastic Five (and a guy)” moved across the stage while the crowd cheered them on. They showed creativity and organization with upbeat music to get the audience pumped. Following the end of the performance, host McDowell roamed through the audience getting feedback on their favorites. Many pleased audience members proudly voiced their support for “Fantastic Five (and a Guy).” While the final decision was in the judges hands, it was apparent that they had a tough decision to make. Their decision was in fact so hard that they created a fourth place prize to reward the many talented students on stage. In the end, K-Flex was the biggest crowd pleaser and took with him the grand prize. Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts, hosted a successful night filled with many talented students and looks forward to more successful events throughout the semester.

Top 10 Albums 1) Set Fire To The Rain Adele 21 2) We Found Love Rihanna Feat. Calvin Harris Talk That Talk 3) Good Feeling Flo Rida 4) Turn Me On David Guetta feat Nicki Minaj 5) The One That Got Away Katy Perry 6) It Will Rain Bruno Mars 7) Sexy And I Know It LMFAO 8) Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill) Kelly Clarkson 9) Ni**as In Paris Jay Z, Kanye West 10) Domino Jessie J

Runway To Win

BY: MABEL MARTINEZ

Photo Credit: www.styleite.com

he fashion industry is teaming up once again with Vogue editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour. Anna Wintour rallied up more than 23 designers to participate in this year’s “Runway to Win.” Runway to Win is an initiative to support United States President Barack Obama’s re-election for 2012. The campaign will have merchandise from a variety of A-list designers for sale on February 7; all proceeds will go to the Obama Victory Fund.

This time around, Runway to Win is no different. It is the same concept. Designers such as, Jason Wu, Derek Lam, Beyoncé and Tina Knowles, Tory Burch and more will design merchandise to raise funds. Some of the items that will be sold are t-shirts, tote bags, scarves and wristlets. All of the items range from $45.00 to $95.00 and can be pre-ordered now at www. runwaytowin.com. However

some

designers

who

For accessories, Runway to Win has a variety of totes and scarves. For example, the dark denim tote bag with the slogan, “Be The Change You Want To See Obama 2012” across the front. This tote bag is being sold for $75.00 and was designed by Marcus Wainwright and David Neville of Rag & Bone. Tory Burch also designed a limited edition tote bag in navy blue for $75.00. Looking for a nice wristlet? Check out Grace Tsao-Wu and Laura Kofoid’s navy blue wristlet for $85.00. All of the items featured in Runway to Win follows the color scheme of red, white and blue, our nations colors and President Obama’s logo. Designer, Richard Blanch has nail polishes in: Red-y To Win Red, Victory White and Bo Blue which comes in a black makeup bag, all for $40.00. Anna Wintour has raised over $500,000 for President Barack Obama’s 2012 reelection campaign. With Wintour as the fuel behind this initiative there is no telling that Runway to Win will be another success. To view the rest of the Runway to Win items, please visit www. runwaytowin.com.

ihanna raised eyebrows when she revealed her “Thug life” tattoo via Facebook and Twitter on January 25. The tattoo is a glow in the dark, pink in the light tattoo on her fingers. Some fans on her Facebook page mocked the singer, as she donned a John Lennon T-Shirt while revealing her new body art. MTV.com reports that the singer was paying homage to the late rapper Tupac. The rap icon had “Thug Life” inked on his stomach. According to eonline.com, actress Demi Moore was reportedly rushed to a Sherman Oaks hospital after having a seizure on January 23. When Moore was hosting a birthday party at her California home, friends claim the actress was acting “pretty hyper.” As the night progressed a friend noticed Moore convulsing and then dialed 911. A representative for the actress released a statement claiming that the actress had decided to be treated for exhaustion and to improve her over all health. In a bizarre twist, TMZ and numerous news sources has reported that the actress was rumored to be doing “Whip-Its” before she had a seizure. According to the NY Daily News, Whip-Its is described as, “The gaseous canisters of nitrous oxide, inhaled from whipped

cream dispensers, send users into a state of other-worldliness.” The 911 tapes were released and one of Demi’s friends can be heard saying that she “smoked something”, which may have caused the actress to have a seizure. People.com has reported that Demi has been abusing prescription drugs, which is why her marriage to soon to be ex-husband Ashton Kutcher has failed. Ironically, Kutcher who has been abroad in Brazil is scheduled to return to the U.S. just as Moore is being released. (eonline.com) It has been rumored that Baby Blue Ivy’s Godmother is allegedly Oprah Winfrey. If this rumor proves to be true, Blue Ivy Carter will want for nothing times a hundred. Gayle King Oprah’s BFF has diffused that rumor when she appeared on CBS’ The Early Show. “It’s absolutely not true that she’s the godmother... She’s friends with them, of course, and likes them both very much. She’s working on sending them a baby gift. She hasn’t even had time to send a baby gift because she’s been away.” She says that if the rumor is true that she knew nothing about it. “Let me just say, if it’s true, it is news to her. You know, she was heading to South Africa when the baby was born.” Photo Credit: www.eonline.com

This is not the first time Anna Wintour is supporting President Obama’s campaign. Back in 2008, Wintour launched the “Runway to Change” initiative for President Obama’s election. Runway to Change featured pieces from, Diane von Furstenberg, Vera Wang, Isaac Mizrahi, Zac Posen, Nanette Lepore and more. Anna Wintour is known for supporting President Obama and hosting fund-raisers and lavish events to benefit the Obama Victory Fund and the Democratic National Committee.

One of the items that are for sale is a graphic unisex v-neck t-shirt that was designed by Joseph Altuzarra for $45.00. Marc Jacobs also designed a crew neck T-shirt with “I Vote Obama” in the center for $45.00 as well. Most of the T-shirts are $45.00 but the best part is that they are basic T-shirts that can be paired with almost anything in one’s closet. Another stylish item is the grey boxy sweatshirt by Tracey Reese for $75.00.

BY: SHARI STRAKER

Photo Credit: www.mtv.com

participated in Runway to Change in 2008 will not be participating this year. Zac Posen, Nanette Lepore, Juicy Couture and Isaac Mizrahi are some of the designers that will not be involved in Runway to Win. Others such as, LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton which has brands for example Donna Karen, Marc Jacobs and Fendi have decided not to participate because they do not want to turn away their Republican shoppers.

Rihanna’s New Tattoo, Actress Demi Moore has a Seizure and is Oprah, Blue Ivy’s Godmother?

Page 13

Every Day is Earth Day

Student Life and Leadership Development welcomes all students to an exciting Spring 2012 semester. We are 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. We are also encouraging all students to participant in the activities, events and programs below:

Lobby Day – February 7, 2012

Travel with us to Albany, New York to the State Capitol to speak with your local politicians about increasing financial aid for higher education. Sign up in the Office of Student Life (M-311), learn about the current issues concerning this matter, and learn how to be effective in creating change. Transportation and Lunch will be provided, and all persons who attend will get a letter requesting that your professors excuse you from class for that day. Call Richard Parker at (718)488-1216 today, and get on the bus!

What’s in Your Wallet – February 7, 2012 11:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. in LLC 116

Student Life, Career Services and Development, and Alumni Relations present Morgan Stanley Smith Barney financial advisor and LIU Alumnus, Taraje WilliamsMurray in a workshop on planning for financial success. Topics to be discussed are Student Loan Repayment, budgeting, understanding your credit score, investments, and navigating employer benefits packages.

National Wear Red Day – “Care for Your Heart” February 8, 2012

National Wear Red Day (2/3/12) will be celebrated on our campus. We will be collecting donations for the American Heart Association, and will be doing tabling concerning healthy heart education throughout the day. We are asking everyone to wear red on February 8, 2012, and to assembly in the Schwartz Gym (Time TBA) and stand in the shape of a heart for a photo for the newspaper.

Focus Groups - January 26, 11:00a.m. to 12:00p.m.; February 1, 5:00p.m. to 6:30p.m. February 7, 11:00a.m. to 12:00p.m., February 16, 11:00a.m. to 12:00p.m.; February 29, 5:00p.m. to 6:30p.m.

In our quest to bring you enhanced services Student Life and Leadership Development is hosting a series of focus groups to hear your opinions, and to know your perception and attitude about Student Life and student activities at the Brooklyn Campus. We would really like your participation. Please sign up in the M-311 today for one of the sessions.

Valentines Blood Drive- February 14 to 16, 2012 in the Schwartz Gym

The Student Life is teaming up with Music Brings Life and our neighboring college for this year’s Valentine’s Blood Drive. We are looking to get 800 pints in 3 days, but we certainly cannot do it without you. As an incentive to helping to save a life Music Brings Life will host an Alicia Keys or Movado concert here on campus for all persons who have given blood. Persons who attempt to give blood, but are ineligible can still attend the concert by recruiting another eligible donor.

R.I.O.T. Phase II– February 24, 2012

The Christian Fellowship Club, Long Island University Television, and LIU Gospel Choir, present a gospel presentation with highlights for Black History Month. Come celebrate with guests JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise, Champion, Andy Mineo FKA C-lite, Sir Musiq, and enjoy the LIU Gospel and featured LIU student soloist, Ricky. This event also features the dramatic talents of the Christian Fellowship club, the charismatic leadership of CFC President, Mr. Ulysses, and the video production of LIU-TV. If you thought R.I.O.T. was off the hook, you don’t want to miss Phase II. positions come with up to 75% tuition remission and housingFor more information on any or all of these activities please contact (718)488-1216, or stop by our office in M-311.

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

Flexible, Convenient: Earn Your Graduate Business Degree Online!

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

For more information, contact: The Peter J. Tobin College of Business Graduate Admissions Office Tel (718) 990-1345 Fax (718) 990-5242 TobinGradNYC@stjohns.edu www.stjohns.edu/tcbonline4

Internal Revenue Code, tax regulations and U.S. Treasury rulings, you’ll excel at tax research and tax compliance.

M1-7451/LR

VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) Recieve free income tax preparation at LIU Brooklyn’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Center. IRS-certified volunteers from the Accounting Society will prepare tax returns for free individuals with incomes of $50,000 or less. VITA runs February 18-April 14. To register, call (718) 780- 4060 or email saas@brooklyn.liu.edu. Page 15

Softball is Back in Brooklyn

BY: MICHAEL GARCIA

fter an inspiring 2010 NCAA Tournament berth, the Blackbirds would miss the 2011 playoffs altogether. Two thousand and ten’s electrifying finish was marred by the 18-35, (8-12 NEC) mark of an injury-plagued, short-handed 2011 season. “Though 2011 was very difficult with wins and losses and the injury bug, it was still very rewarding in a different manner,” said Head Coach Roy Kortmann. “We had a group of young ladies who had to deal with challenges never faced by our program before. They never stopped competing, working; they were looking to improve and stuck together.” The best part about a new year is a blank slate, and according to Kortmann, “we are looking forward to 2012 and continuing to develop the talent we have here to perform as a nationally competitive program.” Despite key losses of shortstop Bianca Mejia (who has gone on to a professional career) and first base/utility Amanda MacIntosh, the Blackbirds welcome six new faces, five freshmen and a junior college transfer. Nichole Toven, a redshirt freshman will also make her college debut for the Blackbirds. Kortmann continues to test the maturing Blackbirds, slating ten opponents who saw the NCAA postseason in 2011. The Blackbirds will face off against schools from as many as 11 conferences including the SEC, the Atlantic Coast Conference, the Big East, the Sun Belt Conference, and the Pac-12. “I don’t really care what they call us, (we are a mid major school in terms of NCAA classification) we look to compete at the highest level of softball in the country,” said Kortmann on consistently challenging schedules throughout his tenure. The Blackbirds open up a 55 game schedule traveling to the sunny shores of Tampa, FL participating in the

Page 16

Photo Credit: LIU Athletics All Hail Fastpitch: The Blackbirds look to return to the NCAA postseason behind seniors Sarah Reynolds, Sterling Hoham and junior Karina Cervantes. USF Wilson-Demarini Tournament. February 10th, the Blackbirds open against Illinois State before being tested by Florida, nationally ranked No. 2 in the AP Poll, then USF. LIU Brooklyn returns to Boca Raton, FL for the FAU Kickoff Classic where they will face No. 15 Michigan, Maryland, No. 13 Kentucky and Florida Atlantic. Escaping the cold northeast weather once again, the Blackbirds will travel to Palm Springs, CA to revisit the Cathedral City Classic Feb. 24-26. LIU opens against No. 9 Stanford with hopes of conquering another ranked opponent and get some top 25 nods.

The tournament also includes contests against BYU and New Mexico State. The Blackbirds will travel to Disney’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando, FL for the Citrus Classic highlighted by contests against Virginia Tech and Notre Dame. Before returning to the northeast for the remainder of the schedule, Kortmann and the ladies return to Florida for a pair of tournaments hosted by USF with games against Rutgers, Coastal Carolina and Ball State. Northeast Conference play begins March 24 against Robert Morris with the

ladies testing the newly renovated LIU Field followed by another doubleheader, this time against Saint Francis (Pa.). The Northeast Conference tournament will span May 11-13 and will feature the top four teams with the top seed scoring home field advantage for the duration of the tournament. “This team is continually focused on all areas for improvement and our mindset for 2012 is the same as it is for every year. We look to become the best possible softball team we possibly can and have no preconceived ceilings on our possibilities,” said Kortmann.

Blackbirds Bowl for 12th in Kutztown Invitational

ver the weekend, the Long Island University Blackbirds bowling team flew into Reading, Pennsylvania for the Kutztown Invitational. They had an impressive start to the tournament going 10-2 in the first two days, but lost to three ranked opponents in the final day. When it was all over, the Blackbirds were ranked 12th out of 30 teams in the invitational. If they had kept the momentum from the beginning then they would have finished a bit higher in the rankings. The Blackbirds started out strong in the first day knocking down six teams. They rolled over Penn State-Altoona 680-585, Bethune Cookman 718-569, and won their third straight against Morgan State by a score of 740-708. LIU continued its winning ways in the fourth match-up against Howard 766-698.

Photo: LIU Athletics Twinkle Toes: Freshman Brittany Hart has been pacing a young but skilled Blackbird bowling team.

LIU Brooklyn Softball Head Coach: Roy Kortmann Assistant Coaches: Bill Gehrke Volunteer Assistant Coach: Blaire Porter Krystal Mejia Undergrad Student Assistant Coach: Bree Melero Returning Players: OF - Madi Zymkowitz (So.) OF - Karina Cervantes (Jr.) C/OF - Lindsey Walker (Jr.) 1B/OF - Jazmin Rodriguez (R-So.) 3B/2B - Lauren Morizi (R-So.) 3B/P - Megan Sheaf (Jr.) 2B/3B - Sterling Hoham (Sr.) U - Ariana Calderon (Sr.) C - Brooklynn York (Jr.) C - Emily Kakuska (Jr.) P - Sarah Reynolds (Sr.)

P - Heather White (So.) Debuting Players: SS/3B - Paris Shipp 2B/OF - Madison Green OF - Ashley Holder OF - Nicole Archer P/DP - Cassie Vondrak (R-So.) 3B/1B - Allison Blackman C/SS - Nichole Toven (R-Fr.)

LIUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s closest match came against the Coppin State Eagles in which the Blackbirds proved they were the stronger and tougher bird in a 750725 win. The Blackbirds closed out the day barely breaking a sweat crushing Cheyny 830-530.

best-of-seven tournament style match. No. 10 New Jersey City University defeated LIU 4-1. Then LIU fell against the hosts of the invitational Kutztown in a 4-3 nail biter. The Blackbirds finished the day off with a loss against No.13 Norfolk State in a tiebreaker. Hatfield led the Blackbirds and was ninth overall in frame average with an average of 202.33.Hart had a frame average of 197.667, which put her 16th overall in the tournament. The Long Island University bowling team will be in action on Feb. 4-5 for the second Northeast Conference meet in Altoona, Pa.

Photo: LIU Athletics

BY: JOHN TOLIS

The NEC rookie of the week, LIU freshman Brittany Hart led all players finishing with a 20.2 frame average. In day two of the invitational, the Blackbirds started off with two straight losses to No. 4 ranked Maryland-Eastern Shore 995-1056 and Hampton 841-947. The Blackbirds got the ball rolling in their last four matches defeating Texan A&M 951-813, Southern 927-843, No 18 ranked Wisconsin â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Whitewater 920916, and No 12 Delaware State 970-884. LIU junior Mariah Hatfield led the Blackbirds with a 202.33 average and Hart finished with a 197.67 frame average. Throughout the first two days, the Blackbirds were ninth out of 28 teams, but it was the final day that put them down a bit.

Bowling for Brooklyn: Junior Mariah Hatfield is one of the three seasoned bowlers.

LIU fell to three ranked teams in a four,

Page 17

Women’s Hoops Victorious at Wagner

BY: SHANEL GILBERT

he Lady Blackbirds women’s basketball team improved to 15-5 in the regular season with a 6760 road victory over Wagner College on the Spiro Center. Junior Ebony Davis led the Blackbirds with 17 points, eight rebound and three blocks. Long Island saw 40 of their 67 points from the bench and sophomore Cleandra Roberts chipped in the second half with 12 points and helped the Blackbirds along with four assists and a pair of steals. Senior Kiara Evans added nine points, four assists and a pair of blocks of her own. Junior Krystal Wells sparked a 10-0 run after hitting two treys wrapped around four shots and a layup by Ashley Palmer. The Blackbirds were able to increase its lead by as much as 11 points in the opening period, as Palmer hit a pair of free throws that placed LIU at 25-14. However, the Seahawks would chew away the deficit and closed the half with a 6-0 run that brought the team back within five points. Throughout the second half, the Blackbirds maintained control of the contest but each time LIU seemed to pull away Wagner would make its way back into the competition keeping the team within comeback distance. Long Island would be able to bump its lead to seven at 30-23 before the Seahawks closed the gap to three. The Blackbirds would get its lead back to six but were cut short as Wagner got back within 2 points with 11:55 left of game play. Long Island responded to the charge with eight straight points closed off by Davis with a put-back that pushed LIU’s lead back to ten at 41-31 with just under half left in the closing period.   Marie-Laurence Archambault answered the Blackbirds with a three-pointer and was fouled over the next possession that led to three free throws. After landing all three  Archambault brought her team back within striking distance at 41-37.

Page 18

Photo: LIU Athletics

Dynamic Duo: Junior Ebony Davis looks to assist senior Ashley Palmer in an NEC Tournament berth.

A second 8-0 run for the Blackbirds cushioned Long Island’s lead to 49-37 with just over six minutes left to play. Wagner responded with an 8-2 spurt that put the score at 57-49. Over the last two minutes of game play LIU would be forced to the foul line closing out the game 67-60. Palmer put up 15 points and added seven rebounds for LIU Brooklyn. Forty of the Blackbirds’ 67 points came from the bench, and although Wagner was forced into 16 turnovers during the opening period, the team was able to hold Long Island’s offense to 25 percent shooting from the field. Following the win at Wagner, senior She’Tiarra Pledger hit a career-high of 17 points as LIU was downed by St. Francis 67-59. The loss dropped the Blackbirds to 15-6 overall and 4-5 in the conference while improving the Red Flash to 8-12

over and 5-4 in the NEC. After trading baskets for the first five minutes of game play, back-toback three-pointers from the Red Flash ignited an 11-2 run that gave St. Francis(Pa.) a double digit lead at 17-8 with just over 11 minutes left in the opening half. Soon after, Pledger jump started a 7-0 spurt for the Blackbirds with a trey. The spurt helped LIU to pull within 3 points with 7:09 left in the opening half. Palmer registered six of ten points in 10-4 run that brought the team to a tie at 29-29 with just over a minute left. The contest would go to intermission in favor of St. Francis. 32-31. Evans opened up the second half for the Blackbirds with a layup that put LIU up by one but the lead was short lived as St. Francis responded with a three-pointer.

The Red Flash would go on to pull away from the Blackbirds point by point never to look back. Long Island would get back within a single digit deficit many times throughput the closing period but were unable to stay in the competition, ending the night 67-59 LIU. Pledger led the Blackbirds with 17 point followed by Palmer who tallied 16 points while increasing her double-digit point streak to 20 consecutive games.

Men’s Basketball Conquers St. Francis (Pa.)

ong Island men’s basketball redeemed itself with a 97-76 road victory over St. Francis(Pa.) on Saturday night. The Blackbirds opened up the scoring with a layup by junior Jamal Olasewere who led the game with 26 points and 10 rebounds.

BY: SHANEL GILBERT

Photo: LIU Athletics

The Blackbirds took early control of the competition tying with the Red Flash just twice before pulling away with a double-digit lead. St. Francis, however, would not back down and kept its grip on the contest and got within single digits multiple times before heading to the intermission in favor of Long Island 48-36. The closing period mirrored the first as the Blackbirds continued to stretch its lead by as much as 24 points. Basket after basket LIU ran away with the competition holding off a late Francis charge while also putting the game out of reach for the Red Flash 90-72 with les then two minutes left of game time. Long Island saw five players in the double figures. Boyd added 17 followed by Junior Kenny Onyechi with 12. Classmates CJ Garner helped out with ten and Brandon Thompson added 11. The Blackbirds shot at 61 percent from the field and 73 percent from the charity strip and also out-rebounded the Red Flash offensively and defensively. Earlier in the week the team has its ninegame win streak put to an end, after being defeated by Robert Morris 75-66. Despite a 10-0 charge late in the second half that cut the team’s deficit to five points, the Blackbirds were unable to climb the wall of point in the remaining game time. The loss dropped LIU to 8-1 in the conference. Early in the first, LIU (14-7, 8-1 NEC) saw an 11-3 point deficit but quickly responded to close the gap to just 4 points. The Blackbirds would go on to cut its deficit to just two but a Robert Morris sent its visitors into the break down 34-26.

Painting a Legacy: Junior Julian Boyd and teammate Jamal Olasawere break the 1,000 point mark as the ‘bash brothers’ seeking a repeat of last yuear’s conference championship. After the intermission the Colonials increased its lead to double figures but LIU refused to back down completely staying within “striking distance.” A three pointer by Junior Julian Boyd cut the Blackbirds deficit to 43-36, the first trey for Long Island after going on a 0-8 dry spell, but the junior was answered by the colonials with a three of their own. Still, Long Island would not be able to claw its way on top as the Colonials hit two treys wrapped around free throws by Olasewere putting Robert Morris up by 14. LIU would go on to cut its deficit to nine on numerous occasions, but the Colonials hit six straight points to take

a 62-47 lead off of a layup by Brandon Herman. After trading baskets, Garner sank a pair of free throws that sparked a 10run for the Blackbirds. Garner then picked the pocket of Lucky Jones before scoring on a layup. Following Garner’s lead, sophomore Jason Brickman would steal the ball and draw the foul that put LIU back within nine at 64-55.

Boyd led the court with 25 points and 12 rebounds, followed by Olasewere who added 18.

After getting within seven points off of free throws by Boyd, Long Island was forced to foul the Colonials who made good on their free throws putting the game out of reach for the Blackbirds.

Page 19