The Torch Vol. 101:13 — October 2023 Issue

The award-winning independent student newspaper of St. John’s University

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OCTOBER 2023

VOL. 101:13 Torch Photo / Olivia Seaman

Photo Courtesy / Instagram sjumsa

HAMAS HOSTAGE FLYER PLACED OUTSIDE MUSLIM PRAYER ROOM UNDER REVIEW BY SJU SJU’S 2023 ANNUAL SECURITY

INSIDE THE ISSUE Congestion Pricing: NYC’s Latest Expense Coming in 2024

& FIRE SAFETY REPORT

Torch Photo / Dea Hoxha

Student Spotlight: Michael “DJ Mav” Valentin Torch Design / Megan Chapman

2 News

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SJU’s 2023 Annual Security & Fire Safety Report The Department of Public Safety released data for all campuses from 2020 to 2022.

Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan

Torch Photo / Dea Hoxha

Dea HoxHa | Nov. 6, 2023

St. John’s University’s Department of Public Safety released its Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The data shows all criminal offenses on the University’s Queens, Staten Island and Manhattan campus, including its Long Island, Paris, Limerick and Rome locations.

The University has seen zero reported crimes on the Manhattan, Staten Island, Long Island, Paris and Limerick locations from 2020 to 2022.

The Rome campus saw two total offenses in 2022, both of which being drug law violations within the residence halls. Queens campus saw a total of 162 reported criminal offenses, a slight rise from 2021’s 158.

Here is a full list of criminal offenses and fire incidents reported on St. John’s Univerity’s Queens campus.

Drug, Alcohol and Illegal Weapon Violations Recording the highest number of offenses compared to all the categories on the report, “Referred for Disciplinary Action” includes drug, liquor and illegal weapon violations, all seeing a total of 140 on-campus violations combined, most of which occurred in the residence halls.

Out of the 97 drug law violations recorded in 2022, 92 were found in the residence halls. All 40 liquor violations and three illegal weapon violations occurred within the residence halls. The report shows that one out of the three illegal weapon violations was arrested. No arrests were listed for drug and liquor violations in 2022.

The overall number of violations that were referred for disciplinary action is a slight decrease from 2021’s 143 recorded violations.

Sex Offenses Three cases of each rape and and three cases fondling were reported on campus last year, one of the rape cases and two of the fondling cases occurring within the residence halls. This equals a total of six sex offenses reported on campus in 2022.

The number of on-campus sex offenses saw a year-to-year increase. In 2020, Queen’s campus had three reported in-campus sex offenses and in 2021, one sex offense was reported.

Stalking, Domestic Violence&Dating Violence On the Queens campus, three dating violence, one domestic violence and three stalking incidents were reported in 2022. All of the dating violence incidents and two of the stalking incidents in 2022 occurred within the Queens campus residence halls.

The seven total incidents are the highest number of incidents seen since 2020, with four cases reported in 2021 — two dating violence and two stalking incidents — and three stalking incidents reported in 2020.

Other Criminal Offenses Including robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft and arson, eight cases were reported on campus last year — six burglaries, one motor vehicle theft and one aggravated assault. Additionally, three were reported on public property — two robberies and one aggravated assault.

The on-campus offenses saw an increase from 2021’s report, seeing three offenses overall — one aggravated assault, one burglary and one motor vehicle theft. None of the five offenses were reported in 2020 on campus.

Fire Reports Three fires were reported in 2022 on the Queens campus, one of which is listed in Donovan Hall under the cause of “Machinery Industrial.”

The incident resulted in $99 worth of damaged property. Another fire was recorded in Century Hall, due to the same cause as Donovan’s and also resulting in $99 worth of damaged property. The last incident occurred in Henley Hall, caused by a cooking incident. No property was damaged.

The recorded fire incidents decreased from 2021’s five incidents — one in Donovan, one in Hollis and three in Henley. The value in damages also decreased, with a total of $3388.36 in damages recorded in 2021.

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Flyer of Hamas Hostage Placed Outside Muslim Prayer Room Under Review by St. John’s University The Muslim Students’ Association calls the action “outrageous” and “absolutely despicable.”

Olivia Seaman and dea HOxHa | nOv. 4, 2023

St. John’s University is reviewing an incident involving a flyer showing a Hamas hostage placed outside of the University’s Muslim Prayer Room in Marillac Hall on Oct. 30.

The Muslim Students’ Association (MSA) shared the incident in an Instagram post Monday, along with a statement calling the action “outrageous” and “absolutely despicable.”

“Having the audacity to post that flyer on the Prayer Room wall, point the finger at us and associate us with Hamas, is outrageous,” the statement said. “The proper actions have been taken in reporting the individuals involved and it will be handled by Public Safety, Student Affairs and our advisors.”

With the statement, MSA posted a photo of the flyer and blurred the face of the hostage. “Out of respect for the individual in the flyer, we’ve blurred out her face,” the caption wrote.

“The prayer room should and will continue to be a safe space for all Muslims on campus,” the statement concluded. “Thank you all for your continued support.”

MSA did not respond to The Torch’s requests for comment at the time of publication.

University Spokesperson Brian Browne said the flyer was unauthorized and the incident is “under active review” in a statement to The Torch.

“St. John’s core values of truth, love, respect, opportunity, excellence and service must remain of paramount importance to all

and Compliance at www.stjohns.edu/reportbias.”

The incident comes amid a rise in tensions on college campuses across the country in response to the Israel-Hamas war. A Cornell University student was recently arrested after making a series of online posts threatening to harm the university’s Jewish students.

In early October, Harvard University garnered national backlash after 33 student groups signed a statement “hold[ing] the Israeli regime entirely responsible for all unfolding violence.”

At St. John’s, student organizations on the Queens campus have held various events and vigils since the start of the war. On Oct. 11, the Jewish Student Association (JSA) held a canTorch Photo / Olivia Seaman dlelight vigil in front of St. Augustine Hall and held of us and must always be our guide, especial- Tehillim prayer services. The Arab Students ly during this challenging time and divisive Organization (ASO), MSA and the Catholic Relief Services Ambassadors for Global Justime,” Browne said.

“Antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism and tice held a Peace for Palestine prayer service in any form of hate speech have no place at St. DAC Plaza from 5-7 p.m. on Nov. 2.

John’s, and any such concerns should be reported to the Office of Equal Opportunity

SJU Students Defy Downpour to Secure 2023 Tip-Off Tickets Students wait in rainy conditions Friday to secure tickets to the event.

Olivia Seaman | Oct. 20, 2023

Students lined Carnesecca Arena’s box office in the rain on Oct. 20 to get tickets for Red Storm’s 2023 Tip-Off event. The event marks the start of the basketball season, complete with a performance by Grammy-award-winning artist 2 Chainz.

The event historically features performances by the University’s cheer and dance teams, basketball player introductions, scrimmages and a musical performance.

Red Storm Sports sent students an email Wednesday, giving students ticketing information. According to the email, ticket sales began at 9 a.m. with tickets being free for all St. John’s students. Students who purchased the student season ticket package can skip the line and receive priority seating. Students who waited in line received a physical ticket required for entry at this year’s event. Only student season-ticket holders can use a digital ticket for entry.

The student season ticket package runs for $132

dollars and includes entry to all St. John’s Men’s Basketball games, including those played in Madison Square Garden, UBS Arena and Barclays Center. Season tickets went on sale Aug. 25, with the first 800 students receiving guaranteed seating for all three venues, according to an email sent to all students.

The Torch spoke to students about their experiences waiting in line.

Sophomore Catherine Pascal waited in line for 30 minutes and felt that waiting in line was “not worth it” due to the rain.

Sophomore Santiago Corralvarela called the experience “fast and easy” and found it accessible for students to get their tickets. For sophomore Jesus Medrano, the weather contributed to the lack of a line, but felt it was “pretty easy” to get his ticket.

Juniors Joseph Villar, Sara Kirkman and Hailey Robinson were pleased with this year’s ticketing process. Last year saw low line attendance in the event headlined by Los Angeles artist Blxst.

“My first Tip-Off process was really long,” Villar said, referring to 2021’s Tip-Off — the first post COVID-19 event headlined by New York City rapper Fivio Foreign. He told The Torch that in past years he’d seen people waiting in line at 7 a.m. “Now it’s much easier.”

“I’m not sure if people are getting bored with Tip-Off, because last year no one really knew the artist,” he continued. “I don’t think people have the urge to go anymore, I know a lot of my friends aren’t going.”

Kirkman and Robinson are excited to see St. John’s Men’s Basketball head coach Rick Pitino and the rest of the team.

Juniors Jennifer Obiesie and Harsha Mattapally found the process easier than in years past. “In my freshman year, the line went all the way down [by Belson Stadium],” Obiesie said. “Last year, I came in the afternoon, so there was no line.”

Doors opened for students at 6 p.m.

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Tip-Off Officially Begins Pitino Era, 2 Chainz Headlines The Oct. 20 event welcomed the 2023-2024 basketball season.

Kyler Fox | oct. 21, 2023

St. John’s University hosted their annual Tip-Off event Friday, Oct. 20 at Carnesecca Arena. On a night filled with free food, activities and performances, students packed the arena with anticipation of kicking off the 2023-24 Men’s and Women’s Basketball seasons.

The night began with performances by the St. John’s Cheer and Dance teams, followed by interactive games for the fans. The combination of the two, paired with music from DJ Zeke, got fans in the perfect mood for a night of Red Storm basketball.

The Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams alternated with walkout introductions. Each player walked out to a song of their choosing, which created an electric atmosphere inside Carnesecca Arena. The introductions concluded with speeches from head coaches Joe Tartamella and Rick Pitino.

“Last year, this event was the springboard for a historical year for our team,” Tartamella said. “We’ve got a game at [Madison Square] Garden, we’ve got a game at UBS [Arena], this is a huge year for our program.”

Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan

Brady Dunlap were up first, finishing with a score of 17. Sophomore guard Jailah Donald and senior guard Naheim Alleyne followed, also posting a score of 17. The contest came down to a tie-breaker, where each contestant received one half court shot to win. Donald drilled her first attempt, securing the victory for herself and Alleyne.

Following the three point contest, the University hosted more interTorch Photo / Sara Kiernan active games for fans. These included a game of horse, with a Tartamella and Pitino autographed ball as the prize, as well as a half court shot for $10,000.

The games continued until about 8:45 p.m., when headliner 2 Chainz made his first appearance of the night.

The Grammy-award winning rapper made his return to St. John’s after over 11 years. In 2012, 2 Chainz and Kendrick Lamar headlined the University’s “Let the Beat Build” spring music festival. Over a decade later he was back in Queens, performing songs such as “Birthday Song,” “All Me,” “It’s a Vibe” and “No Lie”.

2 Chainz concluded his performance promoting his new album, which is set to release before the end of 2023.

This year’s women’s roster has seen a considerable makeover, with St. John’s Women’s Basketball season began on Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. in four incoming transfers as well as four freshmen. a home matchup with Long Island University. The men started their As “Rick” chants began to rain from the crowd, the hall of famer season the following day in a 7 p.m. home matchup with Stony Brook. made his way onto the court floor.

Both games were played at Carnesecca Arena.

“Kentucky students come up to me and say ‘Coach, that was the Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan time of my life,’” Pitino said in reference to his eight year tenure with Kentucky. “Now, it’s your time.”

Pitino served as Kentucky’s head coach from 1989-97, delivering four Final Four appearances and one National Championship.

After cheers erupted from fans, the activities began.

For the first competition, both teams broke into groups for a game of knockout. Sophomore guard Skye Owen advanced to the finals for the women, while senior guard Daniss Jenkins advanced for the men.

After Jenkins missed his opening shot, Owen hit the dagger to claim the victory for the women.

The second competition was a three point contest, which was also broMontgoris’ Flame Station during a dinner period. ken up into teams. Redshirt senior guard Unique Drake and freshman Torch Photo / Olivia Rainson

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5

Safety in Queens: Is St. John’s a Secure Campus

Living in New York City may pose safety concerns for students. Here are what students and public safety think about security at St. John’s University.

Olivia RainsOn | Oct. 31, 2023

Attending a college campus located in New York City can come with risks.

Crime rate is double the percentage in urban areas, the homeless population is greater, including almost 100,000 people, and there is even potential crime on campus as shown by Public Safety’s email briefings.

St. John’s University has several programs enforced by Public Safety to protect students, ranging from shuttle services transporting students safely to a blue light system — which allows students to call Public Safety at the touch of a button. The shuttle services pick up and drop off from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. on weekdays, and 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. on weekends. Locations include the Jamaica LIRR Station, F Train-Homelawn Street/Hillside Avenue, Henley Road Residence, Gate 1, Public Safety/ROTC Building, Seton Complex and DePaul Houses.

“St. John’s University is a safe campus. I really don’t have any concerns for students when they are on campus,” Denise Vencak, the executive director of public safety and risk management, said in a statement to The Torch.

“We do recommend that all students download the LiveSafe app, which allows them to have direct contact with Public Safety and 911.”

Torch Photo / Olivia Rainson Vencak continued to state that “Public Safety would like to remind all Another junior, Alexia Autera, shared similar sentiments about the campus students that safety is a team effort. Students are encouraged to report suspigates. “There should be more security at the gates since they are always open cious activity to Public Safety so that a proper inquiry can be conducted.” and no one is ever really there. Anyone can just walk in.”

The only safety concern mentioned by Vencak are “phishing” emails that “I think that the campus should be better lit at night,” said junior Audrey appear to have been sent by the University or other students, but are actuMendez. “I feel like there are certain areas that lack lighting and can be ally scams attempting to access students’ bank accounts. Vencak explained uncomfortable to walk through.” the phenomenon, and advised students to ignore these emails and contact Aside from Public Safety, there are many other ways to keep yourself safe Public Safety. on campus. The Citizen app is a program that provides alerts of crimes or “Students, faculty and employees have been the recipients of phishing safety incidents in your surrounding neighborhood. Providing information emails and on occasion have responded,” Vencak said. “The email will often such as location, descriptions of the incident, soundbites and updates on offer a remote job in which you will receive a check to deposit and then return a portion of the money via a banking app such as Zelle, Venmo or by first responders, the app is a useful tool to be aware of potential local crime.

Students should also practice safety habits such as walking in groups, sharpurchasing gift cards and forwarding the numbers on the rear of the card.” ing your location with trusted friends and sticking together if venturing off Despite the safety protocols ensured by Vencak and the University-wide campus. Carrying safety alarms, such as the Birdie, can also help students systems, many students still feel unsafe on campus. feel protected on and off campus. The Birdie, when set off, produces a loud “Most of the time, being around large groups of guys at night when I’m sound that can alert people around you if you feel unsafe. alone can be intimidating,” said junior Sanjana Liliah, who is a commuter.

Public Safety can be contacted at 718-990-5252 and the number is located “I also don’t like that it’s an open campus because it means that anyone can on students’ Stormcards. walk on to campus who can be potentially threatening.”

Mind Over Matter: The Struggle of Mental Health in College How SJU students struggling with mental health can utilize consultations, referrals and support systems. abigail gRiecO | Oct. 22, 2023

The transition to college can be a struggle for any A recent survey shows that more than half of stuFinding a therapist who specializes in specific needs student of any age. The combined stresses of school- dents with reported symptoms of mental health do will allow a student’s focus to remain on helping the work, living on your own and pressure to socialize not seek help. Evidently, students may feel there is a aspects of their mental health that need the most is overwhelming and exhausting. As a result, college communication standard that they are expected to attention. students commonly struggle with mental health ismeet, despite being unable to express their struggles; One way to do so is to start by seeing what costs sues, ranging from depression and anxiety to ADHD this may result in stress, intimidation and hesitancy insurance covers — it is important to ensure that asking for help will not put financial stress on a student. and eating disorders. for students to ask for help.

Another way is to reach out to your primary care docMental health has the ability to affect almost every “I feel that reaching out for help is intimidating tor; whether an individual requires psychiatric care, aspect of a student’s life, including sleep cycles, eating in general because you would be questioned about therapy sessions or simply a consultation, a primary and emotional and physical self-neglect; it also neg- what’s wrong and what you need,” said senior Cara atively affects success in academics as well as weekly Cordova. “In reality, the reason I would be reaching care doctor will have referrals readily available. attendance in a lecture. Majority of college students out for help would be because I don’t know what’s Additionally, student-run organizations also have are diagnosed with a mental health disorder. events that promote wellbeing and de-stressing. wrong or what I need.”

The heavy workload of assignments and studying Specifically, the American Association of PsychiatSt. John’s University offers various methods of ric Pharmacists (AAPP) is an SJU organization that while handling her job is what junior Katelyn Mcmental health support, including the Center for Carty attributes to her emotional and mental stress. Counseling and Consultation (CCC). Alongside provides care for individuals with mental health “There really is no time for a break,” McCarty said. most colleges, St. John’s utilizes a short-term model disorders. In the spring semester, the AAPP opened a “It always feels like there’s not enough time in the day for treating students with “a whole range of challeng- meditation room for finals week, allowing students to for me to keep up with everything I have to do. Even es,” specifically mental health ones, on campus. The cope with the overwhelming stresses of college life. when I get my work done, I feel like it’s not my best CCC provides six free therapy appointments with Life can be incredibly stressful when it comes to campus counselors and psychologists; afterwards, the classes, socialization and the pressure that comes with work because I’m stretched so thin.” treatment is either ended if necessary or students are both. St. John’s University has several resources to aid Often, students feel crushed by the weight of academics — in the senses of workload and pressure referred to external counselors. students who are struggling with mental health issues; to succeed. Junior Antonio Mosby expressed similar However, some students may find the short-term if more treatment is needed, it is important for stusentiments as McCarty. “I feel like I’m still trying to model of help too short and will look to a long-term dents to seek long-term help from consistent resourcfigure out who I am while being pressured to get a therapist instead. “This is a daunting task,” said senior es. However, these short-term resources give students degree. It’s really overwhelming, and I’m exhausted all Annie Murphy. “The most important thing is to do a jump start into their mental health journey. the time.” your research.”

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6 Features

The Art of Maintaining Productivity as a College Student St. John’s students share their strategies for success in a demanding academic environment.

Torch Photo / Olivia Rainson

AbigAil grieco And oliviA rAinson | nov. 1, 2023

College students often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities, ranging from attending lectures, participating in extracurriculars, managing jobs and a healthy social life. With so much on our plates, remaining productive and effectively managing life’s various paths becomes a critical aspect of daily success. Here are some conventional and unconventional strategies that St. John’s University students utilize to keep their productivity high throughout the semester.

Set Realistic Goals More often than not, students are stressed as a result of academic responsibilities.

It can be extremely difficult to simultaneously maneuver multiple assignments, resulting in the well-known phenomena of workload paralysis. This entails being overwhelmed with the amount of work one has to do to the extent that students are figuratively paralyzed with fear, inhibiting the ability to do any work. This feeling “kills motivation and blocks out your inner resources, instead of accumulating efforts to actually solve issues.”

By breaking down both academic and personalized tasks into ones that are smaller, easier to tackle and less daunting, students can have an easier time remaining motivated. It can be difficult to try and tackle too many tasks; “I have the habit of taking on way too many assignments at once,” said sophomore Eric Anderson.

“Breaking down a big task, for me, makes it more likely that I finish the task if it seems less overwhelming.”

A foolproof way that students can ensure proper task management is the Eisenhower Matrix. This principle encompasses all of the activities and projects a student has to do, no matter how minute it may seem. There is an “Important/ Urgent” principle that the Matrix uses to classify the order in which assignments should be completed; delegating tasks based on importance and urgency is crucial in maintaining an effective to-do list as well as combating an overwhelming feeling.

Get Out of Your Head There are many factors that go into not studying, completing an assignment or preparing for a presentation; one of the most prominent is simply forgetting. Students have so many reminders crammed into their brains that responsibilities can easily slip the mind. “I find that there are assignments that I have to put so much focus on that I forget to slot in other assignments, and I eventually forget them,” said Eric Anderson.

“I think that having your responsibilities on paper helps to keep everything in perspective. It’s easy to put too much or too little emphasis on particular responsibilities if they are in your head, but on paper, it is clear and unchanging.”

A study timetable — whether it be on paper or on an electronic device — allocates time efficiently, allowing sufficient time for each subject at hand to be focused on. By ensuring that one study subject ends and a different one begins, students allow their brains a break from over-studying one topic at the expense of another. This results in a more clear and refreshed mind when going back to the original topic. Additionally, this consistency in regular timetable study sessions help to reinforce learning, making it easier for students to retain information at lesser stakes than cramming it all in at once.

If students do not want to kick it old school with a pen and paper, the MyStudyLife app is an organized and beneficial digital planner that can be accessed on any device. Not only does the app keep track of classes, homework, projects and exams, but it also aids in students keeping on top of their semester-long workload.

It can be customized to send reminder notifications about any kind of assignment to guarantee that students do not forget.

Implement a Reward System Sometimes the only way to get a task done is knowing that there is a reward for completing it. After a long study session or the completion of a difficult assignment, rewarding yourself can promote productivity since there is something to look forward to at the end of it.

“I often find that having a ‘sweet treat’ to look forward to at the end of something I did not want to do will actually make the process go by faster and smoother than I expected,” said senior Mariana Bulko. “It’s probably some type of reverse psychology to make me work better, but in the end I get to enjoy having both finished my work and something tasty.”

Rewarding oneself has the benefit of greater engagement in a task. If students know that they will have a reward at the end, they will work harder and better to ensure that the reward is achieved; students become “motivated to achieve another successful reward” as well. Not only would this increase retention and a more positive outlook about an assignment, but it also has long-term benefits like increased productivity.

However, the flaw with this system is that it can be difficult to return to work after the fact. This system is best utilized when something is wholly completed, that way it is a more meaningful reward and creates a greater sense of urgency to finish the task. Determine the reward based on how intense the task is and save this system for longer assignments for maximum productivity!

Use Productivity Apps There are several resources online to help students stay focused while studying or working on their assignments. For students who easily get distracted while working on their computers, there are several programs that prevent students from venturing off to other sites than the one they are currently working on.

“Assignments and studying take me way longer than needed because of the millions of distractions around me: Tik Tok, Netflix, YouTube, Instagram, the list goes on,” said senior Matthew Anderson.

Self Control is a free Mac application that prevents users from accessing websites they personally choose for a certain amount of time. Even if users delete the program or restart their computer, the websites they block will not be accessible until the set timer has finished. This helps students follow through with focusing on their assignments and not straying to other sites or applications while working on their personal computer.

Another app to keep students off their phones and focused on their work is Forest. When users want to focus on their work or impending tasks, they can leave the app open on their phone to grow their own trees. If users leave the app, the trees will begin to die and all progress of growth will be lost. The company is partnered with Trees for the Future, a real tree-planting organization, so users can spend virtual coins earned from growing their trees for Forest to donate to create planting orders. Not only does this boost productivity, it contributes to environmental conservation and the flourishing of forests all over the world.

Remaining productive, especially towards the end of the semester, can be a challenge. However, with these tips and tricks, students will be able to finish the year off strong!

Features 7

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Student Spotlight: Michael “DJ Mav” Valentin DJing since 2014, Valentin is a prominent artist on and off the St. John’s campus.

Olivia RainsOn | nOv. 6, 2023

Michael Valentin was in seventh grade when he decided to pursue even know,” Valentin said. “To see people’s faces and reactions to his passion for music and become a professional DJ. Majoring in different things really keeps me going because I can see how powerful communication arts with a focus in media management, Valentin is a music is for me and for others as well.” senior who has been DJing at St. John’s University for two years. In an Dedicated to his profession, Valentin is working to build his social interview with The Torch, Valentin shared insights into his past expe- presence and reach as big of an audience as he can to share his love riences, his current roles and future aspirations. for music. He currently has a SoundCloud page “I do events on campus, working with the bas- Photo Courtesy / Michael Valentin where he posts his own mixes and musical conketball team and working on my personal brand,” tent.

Valentin said.

When asked what inspires him most, Valentin Working with the athletics department, Valbelieves it’s seeing his potential and “the way entin is under contract to DJ a certain number music affects people’s lives.” of games a season, which is now on a “game to “I got into this business because I love music,” game basis” due to his changing schedule. He has Valentin continued. “I know that it’s very powDJed for both the Men’s and Women’s Basketball erful and it could be a source of happiness and teams, as well as for past Tip-Offs at Carnesecca connection for a lot of people.”

Arena.

Growing up on electronic music, Valentin’s Aside from DJing on campus, Valentin is DJing style has been heavily influenced by this also involved in WSJU — the University’s stugenre, but he emphasizes that he can “really mix dent-run radio. anything.” Also favoring hip hop and R&B, Val“I’m the executive DJ for the radio station, so entin’s only musical pause is country. anytime an organization needs a DJ or music His current favorite artist is Fred Again, a they recommend me,” Valentin told The Torch.

London DJ. However, Valentin revealed that he “I also work with the radio and e-board to orchestrate events and host often listens to jazz, lofi or classical music after a set, or even to simply radio shows.” unwind and relax.

Building his own career, Valentin has branched out beyond the Uni“My goal is to keep maintaining this business and keep growing as versity to DJ a multitude of events. much as I can, but to also get involved in a lot of other creative out“Personally, I’ve done a lot of work from sweet sixteens to weddings lets,” Valentin said about his aspirations. “I’ve recently been really into to proms, as well as nightlife like clubs and bars.” growing my own personal brand, but also getting involved behind the Valentin most recently DJed at an East Village bar, Hotel Chantelle scenes of the music industry. I’ve been doing an internship where I’m on Halloween. an artist relations intern, and we look for the next best thing in mu“I had a lot of my friends and family come, as well as people I didn’t sic.”

Savor the Season: Five Fall Festivities From Halloween parades to pumpkin patches, here is a list of fall activities in NYC. Olivia RainsOn and MOlly dOwns| Oct. 19, 2023

Fall in New York City is a highly anticipated season for people in every borough, and there are numerous activities to participate in to celebrate the upcoming holiday. Below is a list of some of the best festivities for fall.

Queens County Farm Queens County Farm — one of the longest continually farmed sites in New York — offers a variety of fall activities from a pumpkin patch to navigating a three-acre corn maze.

With an annually changing design, this year’s corn maze is inspired by the 1954 Ford tractor, donated by the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. The farm also features a store with locally made gifts, as well as a fresh donut shop and cider booth open daily. For late night fun, there is “Maze By Moonlight” for four nights only.

Hudson Yards Outdoor Movie Nights Every Friday at 6:00 p.m. from now through the end of October, Hudson Yards hosts outdoor movie nights in the Public Square and Gardens.

The movies are free to attend and the doors open at 5:00 p.m. with first-come first-serve seating.

Attendees can also bring their own blanket to stay cozy while enjoying the films.

Additionally, you can bring your own snacks or treat yourself to any of the numerous food options in the area, such as tacos from Verano!

The movie selection has a broad range, but as the days get closer to Halloween, the films get more festive, with showings of “Practical Magic,” “The Witches” and “Corpse Bride.”

Pumpkin Flotilla Every year, Central Park hosts their “Pumpkin Flotilla” on the Harlem Meer lake. On Oct. 26, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., a string of carved jack-o-lanterns will be paddled across the water.

People can drop off their own carved pumpkin at 4:00 p.m. if it follows the guidelines to be entered in the show. There will be a variety of activities — ranging from a Halloween dance party to a magician — occurring before the flotilla. The event itself and entering your own pumpkin is free.

Tompkins Square Dog Parade ’re a dog owner, or even just an animal lover, the Tompkins Square Dog Parade is the perfect fall

activity. On Oct. 21 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., dogs can be dressed up in Halloween attire and paraded around the park by their owners.

The dog with the best costumes even receive prizes. This year is the 33rd annual parade, and the first year the event is being run with the help of Get Joy, which is a dog wellness company.

Greenwich Village Halloween Parade Greenwich Village is holding their 50th annual Halloween Parade, being held on Halloween night at 7:00 p.m. The festivities take place on 6th Avenue, running straight up from King Street to West 15th. This year’s theme is “Upside / Down: Inside / Out,” which is applied to the puppets included in each year’s parade.

In addition to the puppets, the parade includes over 50 marching bands and multiple commercial floats. The parade is free to march in, but costumes are mandatory. If you’d prefer to be out of the spotlight, viewers line up all along Sixth Avenue to watch.

8 Opinion

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Why Switching to a Formal Dress Code in the U.S Senate Was the Right Call The Senate rightfully passed formal dress code after the unwritten customs were challenged.

ElizabEth Kaufmann | Oct 6, 2023

The United States Senate played with the idea of enacting a lax in dress code for members of the branch. Meaning, the stuffy suits and camera ready makeup seen on the floor were almost replaced by the cozy attire you may witness on your couch.

Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania said in an interview on MSNBC, “Aren’t there more important things we should be talking about rather than if I dress like a slob?”

He and anchor Chris Hayes exchanged chuckles on how Republicans are “freaking out” over said announcement — that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was not really interested in enforcing the code.

However, this topic was not one that initiated bipartisan divide. Senators, regardless of party, expressed their views for and against.

An NBC News article emphasizes the claim made by Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, stating, “‘I think there is a certain dignity we should be maintaining in the Senate, and to do away with the dress code, to me, debases the institution.’”

While, according to the same article, Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska donned a quarter zip and sneakers on the senate floor and Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri showed up in jeans and cowboy boots. “‘I mean, it’s a respect thing, it’s like going to church in your jeans, or going to a funeral in jeans. I’m not so

Photo Courtesy Courtesy// YouTube Angeles Times Photo Unsplash Los Joshua Sukoff

hung up on things to think that every single day a man needs to wear a necktie,” the senator told NBC News.

Not even all Democrats were on Fetterman’s side. According to a Fox News article, Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois claims, “I think we need to have standards when it comes to what we’re wearing on the floor of the Senate.

And we’re in the process of discussing that right now as to what those standards will be.” So not a total rejection, but a noteworthy hesitation.

A hesitation that proved to be viable. Detailed by CNN, a resolution was passed on Sept. 27 that put a real dress code into place, where a coat, tie and slacks for men are now a must.

For women, no specifics were given other than it must be “business attire” — what that is is up to them.

Because the former dress code was more of an unwritten custom rather than an official decree, some considered the idea that relaxing the dress code may increase political rep, as those in office can instill a type of “they’re just like us” mentality in the public. However, it is important to understand that these elected officials are not just like us. They’re running the country.

But, the Pennsylvania senator is right to point out, is this really a big deal? And if it isn’t, why bother? Is it really a big deal to throw on a dress shirt and slacks?

Some are claiming that the consideration of comfy-cozy chairmen was

aimed at “appeasing Fetterman,” as the senator has been making news lately on his various mental and physical health concerns.

Dressing casually makes it easier for Fetterman to do his job, but what would senators say of the fast food employee who got written up for not wearing their hat? Are they allowed to not wear it due to mental health accommodations? Chuck Schumer thinking about relaxing the dress code raised the question, should every institution be allowed to do the same?

This isn’t to be insensitive or say senators shouldn’t be allowed to do whatever they want, what becomes of the rest of us? The question those in office often fail to acknowledge.

So really, our government officials are just like us. Yes, what you say is important regardless of how you dress — but by taking pride in their appearance, senators are able to create an air of put-together-ness, something that the United States is in desperate need of conveying. There is nothing wrong with putting pride in your appearance — intentional presentation demonstrates caring.

Like Sen. Collins said, there is a certain expectation everywhere you go based on your job title. A certain role you play, a certain character you embody. Even if you want to, you cannot remove yourself from your doings — the Senate made this clear by passing an official dress code.

You are a senator, act like it.

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Opinion

9

The Good and Bad of Raising Cane’s Branching Out To NYC Why the famous chain restaurant’s landing in New York City Should be met with skepticism.

James Williams | Oct. 18, 2023

101ST EDITORIAL BOARD Dea HoxHa/ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Olivia Seaman/ MANAGING EDITOR Sara Kiernan SPORTS EDITOR Kyler FOx ASST. SPORTS EDITOR iSabella CauterO ASST. SPORTS EDITOR mOlly DOwnS CULTURE EDITOR malaK KaSSem OPINION EDITOR abigail grieCO FEATURES EDITOR

Olivia rainSOn ASST. FEATURES EDITOR Sara Kiernan PHOTO EDITOR Olivia rainSOn SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER elizabeth KauFmann HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER megan Chapman DESIGN EDITOR Suzanne CieChalSKi ADVISER

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS James Williams

Emilie Hakansson

Celina Mullady

Shivani Ramautar

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Three new restaurants from the beloved fast food chain “Raising Cane’s” have opened in New York City. — in Manhattan on 20 Astor Place, in Times Square at 1501 Broadway and in Brooklyn on 1523 Kings Highway. With many fast food joints opening frequently and unhealthy food spreading swiftly, it is imperative to take a step back and evaluate how to safely enjoy a meal at a fast food restaurant.

I had the opportunity to have lunch at the Cane’s in Manhattan and many of the glaring positives and negatives became present.

The biggest positive of the entire fast food industry is its accessibility. I walked in, placed my order, sat down and got my “box combo” as fast as I could say “Cane’s Sauce.” The process of putting in the order to the meal being put on a plate in front of me took about five minutes.

The food was also delicious: four crispy chicken tenders, a mountain of fries, scrumptious Texas toast and the now iconic Cane’s dipping sauce being the capper to this meal.

It was everything you would Torch Illustration / Megan Chapman

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want out of lunch, a filling and satisfying experience for only $15. Despite its efficiency, there is a major caveat to this convenient way to get food. The meal I had at Cane’s was 1,250 calories, already over half of the 2,000 calories that should be eaten in a day. More specific nutritional facts show how unhealthy a meal at Cane’s really is. While a box combo contains 61 grams of protein, the food is rich in sodium, cholesterol and fats, having 2130 mg of sodium, 170 mg in cholesterol and 68 grams in total fats. Meaning, in one meal you are getting 105% of your total fat intake, 57% for cholesterol and roughly 90% of daily sodium intake.

While the food is delicious and easy to get your hands on, it is important to proceed with caution when dining at any fast food place, especially Cane’s. It doesn’t mean you must completely cut out fast food, but it is something that should be enjoyed in moderation. Choosing meals from Cane’s, or any other fast food establishment in favor of more healthy alternatives and limiting fast food consumption as a whole is the best way to go about modern dining.

10 Opinion

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Eric Adams’ New Robocop Is a Sad, Yet Accurate, Reflection of His Priorities

The mayor cites saving money as an advantage to the initiative.

Malak kasseM | Oct. 24, 2023

New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the newest addition of the New York Police Department: The “robocop.” The piece of technology, released early September 2023, will undergo a twomonth trial period patrolling the Times Square subway station, allowing city officials to assess its effectiveness.

Its capabilities include recording video footage and access to communication with first responders and other personnel. While the robocop seems like a helpful additive to New York City, a security camera and phone service on wheels does not sufficiently replace a human police officer. The 400-pound robocop will essentially record crime for a police report. A real cop will stop crime as it happens.

Adams cites saving money as one of his essential goals. According to a New York Times article, the cost of “hiring” a robocop is equivalent to $9 per hour. “That is below minimum wage,” Adams said. “No bathroom breaks, no meal breaks.”

Mayor Adams has his priorities in disorder.

According to a 2022 poll, fifteen percent of riders feel “very safe” in the morning on the subway, and only seven percent feel the same way at night. Even if the city has to cut its budget, cutting police presence in subway stations should not be an option,

especially after a recent fare hike. If anything, we should increase police presence to ensure the safety of riders.

The robocop is not offering security we don’t already have. We have phones to call 911 at any time. In case riders don’t have access to a cell phone, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) also has customer assistance stations on subway platforms and in many subway cars that allow riders to contact MTA personnel for general information and first responders in case of an emergency.

Torch Photo / Dea Hoxha In addition, there is already an initiative to place security cameras in all subway stations and inside subway cars.

According to New York’s Governor’s Office,the MTA received $2 million to

complete the project.

It’s also important to understand the urgency of emergencies in the subway.

If officers are not already present in stations, that would result in longer response times to calls.

New York’s transportation system is critical to its livelihood. If Adams is trying to save money instead of earning back the trust of riders then we have a problem.

Congestion Pricing: NYC’s Latest Expense Coming in 2024 Midtown congestion fee set to roll as early as 2024. shivani RaMautaR | Oct. 24, 2023

Just when you thought living in New York City couldn’t get more costly, another expense is on its way. The new Midtown congestion toll is set to be implemented in the second quarter of 2024. The Federal Highway Administration (FHA) approved New York’s plan to start charging drivers as much as $23 to drive through Manhattan’s central commercial area during peak hours.

The project was developed to help reduce the area’s air pollution and ease the excessive traffic.

The toll revenue will also help maintain and improve the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) bus, subway and rail systems.

The ordeal has garnered much attention since this plan would be the first to be implemented in the United States. New York State officials see this as a positive step towards reducing air pollution, less traffic congestion, and increasing mass transit usage. For the average New Yorker, this is just

more money coming out of their pocket.

New York City’s cost of living is sky-high, and it’s only been getting worse with record-breaking rent prices and heavy taxes. The state’s minimum wage isn’t cutting it for most residents. While the city is glorified by many across the U.S. and the world, the average New York resident feels the pressure.

These ridiculous costs and expenses, especially for recent graduates, put most people in a tricky situation. New York City is one of the best places to experience college. The vast opportunities, resources and networks make it a perfect place to start adulthood. While the experiences remain the same, the prices continue to increase.

Graduates working in the city now have an extra expense. Those working full-time usually work five days a week. If they live outside Midtown, they must make at least two daily trips. Using the cur-

rent price of $23, a whole workweek’s toll expense would add up to about $230.

It’s even worse for those living and working in the area. Rent prices start from $3,000 and up.

Let’s not forget bills, food, and other living expenses. Adding an extra fee just to get to work makes many post-grad students rethink whether living or finding employment in the city is worthwhile.

Overall, I understand where the officials are coming from with this plan, however, the price needs to be lowered. The notion is already receiving extreme backlash from New York and New Jersey residents working in Manhattan. It’s pretty clear that if state officials keep up with projects like these, New York City will be undesirable to college and postgraduate students because the State has become totally unaffordable.

Culture 11

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Internet It-Couple Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce May Be a Cover Up Is Swift dating the football star to distract from negative attention about excessive carbon dioxide emissions?

Photo Courtesy / Youtube Binge Pop

ElizabEth Kaufmann | Oct. 18, 2023

Theories have been spreading across the internet that singer-songwriter legend Taylor Swift is dating Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end, Travis Kelce, to cover up Swift’s absurd carbon dioxide emissions.

The web went wild in 2022 when a list came out of celebrities whose excessive private jet usage resulted in high pollutant rates. Always on top, Swift came out at number one on this list, racking up 22,923 minutes (or 15.9 consecutive days) in the air just in the year 2022.

Then X, known as Twitter at the time, and other social media platforms latched on to the news and branded the star as an ‘inconsiderate elitist.’

No stranger to negative attention, Swift seems to be pivoting her jet scandal to the scandal that helped make her popular: her dating life.

Since the dawn of her career Swift has been shamed and berated for her love interests. Pop culture in-the-knows may remember the 2012 interview between Ellen DeGeneres and Taylor Swift, where the talk show host made Swift obviously uncomfortable by insisting upon asking about her “relationship” with Zac Efron. Swift even sang in a

previous interview with Ellen, “She [Ellen] always asks me who I’m dating every time I’m on the show and I don’t even know why, but it gets five million hits on YouTube.” Swift cried at the end of this interview.

Prior to sparks flying with Kelce, Swift was dating actor Joe Alwyn. Her new love story is thought to have begun this past July, when Kelce attended an Eras Tour concert and professed his interest in Swift with a friendship bracelet that had his number on it. Shortly after, the two were spotted in various different locations, interacting in ways that let on the feeling was mutual.

Swift attended the Chief’s first game of the season against the Chicago Bears on Sept. 24, alluding further to the new relationship. She was then seen at the Chief’s second game against the New York Jets. With her she brought a troop of famous-friends including Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, as well as Hugh Jackman. Not only that, but photos plaster the web of Swift hanging out with Brittany Mahomes, wife to Chiefs quarterback, Patrick Mahomes as well as Kelce’s mom.

When Googling “Taylor Swift Jets”

after the star attended this game, headlines shot to the top of the results list about her alleged relationship, her dissatisfaction with her suite at the game and basically anything not jet-plane related.

Also at the top of the results list (at the time this article was written) is an article from Vulture detailing this potential PR stunt. The article points out that because of the way the internet works, this word play is not uncommon for celebrities trying to rebrand negative attention. For example, Vulture lists Selena Gomez releasing the song “Single Soon” to cover up anyone trying to pry into her relationship status by searching “Selena Gomez single.” When searching “Kylie Lenner lip,” instead of seeing the botched attempts of kids online doing the “lip challenge” to get her famously plump lips, you get to browse the TV star’s cosmetic line.

The list goes on, but only one thing is true: the internet loves talking about Taylor Swift’s latest lover. It’s the negative attention she’s used to, and one that she’s not going to let be overcome by her travel affairs.

torchonline.com 12 Culture Curated Collections: A Guide to the Most Thrilling Horror Films

From mental madness to violent scares, here is a guide to the subgenres of horror.

Olivia RainsOn | OCt. 30, 2023

Horror is one of the most diverse and com- Stephen King’s novel was brought to life plex film genres — utilizing thematic el- by director Stanley Kubrick and stars Jack ements to plunge the viewer even further Nicholson. into its darkness. From jump-scares to psy- Thrillers elicit anxiety and suspense from chological torment, this genre creates some its viewers,unlike typical horror which feaof the most brilliant films that demand fo- tures more gore and creates intense fear. As cus and brainpower to dissect. Not even a subcategory of horror, thrillers attempt scratching the surface of this complex style, to suspend people to the edge of their seat, here are four categories of horror for your and “The Shining” is one long suspense. next movie night.

Psychological Sometimes what makes a horror film is not the physical jump scares — it’s the mental ones. Psychological horror includes not only the typical elements of horror, but an added layer of intense mental trepidation that elevates the viewer’s fear.

Including both extreme gore and religious undertones, the film “mother!” stars Jennifer Lawrence as a troubled wife and later desperate, mournful mother. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, known for “Black Swan” and “Requiem for a Dream,” the film “mother!” includes elements Photo Courtesy / Youtube Movieclips of gore and horror paired with psychological torture to create a disturbing Thrillers are perfect for people who want and twisted, yet brilliant, horror film. a scare, but don’t want to be kept up at Thriller night.

“The Shining” is known as one of the most Supernatural iconic thrillers for a reason. Containing One of the most iconic paranormal horror classic horror elements from isolated hotels films, “The Conjuring,” is well-known for to descending madness, the film based on a reason. Based on “true” events, Ed and

Lorraine Warren, supposed real paranormal investigators, attempt to rid a cursed family’s home of evil spirits. Released in 2013 and directed by James Wan, the film contains supernatural elements of possession, exorcisms and demonic religion.

Paranormal horror films make for an interesting movie night, since they combine supernatural elements with horror to create a sci-fi experience for the viewer.

“The Conjuring” is one of the highest grossing horror films of all time and utilizes paranormal elements to craft one of the most popular, and supposedly real, horror films of all time.

Slasher Slasher horror films are a category best made in the 80s and 90s. From “Halloween” to “Nightmare on Elm Street,” teen slasher films are one of the best subsets of horror. Nostalgic and classic, these films contain jump scares and just the right amount of gore for a fall movie night. Directed

by Wes Craven in 1996, “Scream” is the best of all the installments for its authentic teen horror that hasn’t yet been overplayed.

Slashers are known for the period between the 50s and the 90s, and almost always involve a masked killer who is terrorizing a small town. A less complex form of film, slasher movies are an iconic addition to the realm of horror.

Stevie Nicks Returns to New York City

Nicks creates an interactive and intimate concert experience.

Celina Mullady | OCt. 23 2023

After a long-awaited return to New York City, Stevie Nicks took Madison Square Garden by storm on Oct. 1, performing a sold-out show. Since Nicks’ last visit to NYC in 2016 on her 24-Karat Gold Tour, she filled the room with excitement and heartbreak, sending the audience back into the 1970s and 1980s.

She performed her most well-known songs, including “Edge of Seventeen” and “Bella Donna,” as well as a handful of Fleetwood Mac songs ranging from “Dreams” and “Gold Dust Woman” to everyone’s favorite tear-jerker, “Landslide.”

Despite being in the world’s most famous arena, Nicks puts on an incredi-

bly intimate show. Before every song, she gives a detailed story of who she was when the song was written and released, what it meant to her then and what it means to her now.

In one particular moment before “Landslide,” Nicks speaks about her difficulties in dealing with the death of fellow Fleetwood Mac member Christine McVie, who passed away in November 2022. A slideshow of pictures of Nicks and McVie followed this speech.

Nicks also recognized that performing at MSG is extremely special; she even said after decades of performing there, she still has stage fright. She thought it would be the perfect place to announce

her partnership with Mattel, revealing her own Barbie and giving the very first one away to a lucky fan in the audience.

Nicks is nothing short of an icon. Even after all these years, her stage presence is unmatched. The audience was just as extraordinary as Nicks, all dressed in black lace and flowy dresses, channeling Nicks’ 70s era. She is a storyteller who takes the audience through an interactive experience, whether twirling around the stage in “Edge of Seventeen”or singing a powerful ballad like “Landslide.”

Nicks put on an incredible show, transporting the audience into another world for two hours, resulting in an unforgettable experience.

Culture 13

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Small Artist Spotlight: Greer California band Greer’s music is the perfect combination of indie and soft-rock.

Molly Downs | oct. 27, 2023

The Orange County-based band “Greer” is a four-man group creating sounds of soft, indie-rock melodies with soothing vocals and catchy lyrics. The band is made up of Corbin Jacques on guitar, Seth Thomson on bass, Lucas Ovalle on drums and Josiah on lead vocals.

The group has been together since 2018 after Thomson met Ovalle at a show he was playing in with Jacques. Once Josiah joined the group, Greer officially began, making their internet debut with a since-deleted YouTube video of them performing an acoustic set in Ovalle’s bedroom. Their first official single “Song for Me” was released on Spotify in January 2019.

The band gained some traction in the fall of 2019 when they went on tour with indie band The Regrettes, growing their fan base despite only having two songs released on streaming platforms at the time. After releasing more music, the band continued to grow, opening up for The Flaming Lips in 2021, and then going on two tours of their own in the fall of 2021 and the summer of 2022.

Their discography currently consists of two EPs and only a handful of singles which, although disappointing for fans of their music, makes it easier to start listening. On their most recent EP, released in 2021, the title track “Happy People” is a great place to begin exploring their songs. The melody is very upbeat, with snappy drums and a catchy bass line. Josiah’s lead vocals are heard on full display in this track, with the echoing backing vocals of the rest of the band.

Prior to “Happy People’s” release, the band released a single with the song “All That’s Left Behind” in March 2021. This song is what could be considered the epitome of Greer’s music. The track opens with a verse of Josiah’s smooth vocals belting slowly

over a soothing guitar. It then builds into a bigger, more rock-like sound, with the bass and drums joining in. It’s the perfect combination of rock instrumentals with laid-back vocals.

Off of their first EP “Lullaby for You,” the song “Paper Birds” gives a more acoustic touch to the band’s sound. Thomson, the bassist, takes on the leading vocals for this track, while the lead singer harmonizes, creating a breathtaking melody. Accompanied by soft drums, a twangy guitar and a hint of tambourine, this song is a great sample from the band’s collection, showing off a slightly different sound from the rest.

These three songs are the perfect starters for new Greer listeners, however, you really can’t go wrong with this band. Any song in their discography makes for an easy, enjoyable listen.Ph Photo Courtesy / Youtube Greer

Build Your Fall Playlist With These Five Albums From A$AP Rocky to Taylor Swift, here’s five albums to keep you company this fall.

JaMes williaMs | oct. 22, 2023

With heaps of rain hitting campus and cold air officially entering the atmosphere, many of us look to music for warmth in this seasonal change. Here are five album recommendations to listen to either while sipping on a pumpkin spice latte or going on a chilly walk in the park.

“AT.LONG.LAST.A$AP” by A$AP Rocky For rap fans out there, Rocky’s most underrated project serves as the perfect Autumn listen. Rocky completely changed his sound for this album with more of an eerie and atmospheric feel plaguing the 18 tracks in comparison to his more energetic/fun loving previous work.

A coldness is present in all songs, with “Pharsyde,” “Jukebox Joints” and “L$D” emulating this chilliness. However the standout track of this album is without a doubt “Everyday” with Rod Stewart, Miguel and Mark Ronson. A beautiful constant drum beat over Rocky’s verse complemented by Stewart and Miguel’s catchy chorus creates an anthem of relaxation that is perfect to hear as the leaves turn brown.

“Punisher” by Phoebe Bridgers Indie darling Phoebe Bridgers’ sophomore solo album “Punisher” has been a mainstay in my fall playlist since its release. In what can only be described as “depression music,” Bridgers’ beautiful voice is only matched by her impressive songwriting in making some of the most relatable and vivid songs about love.

“Garden Song,” “Chinese Satellite” and “I Know The End” are standouts in creating this crisp and cold tracklist. Bridgers creates the perfect output for anyone staying in for this fall season.

“Soft Sounds from Another Planet” by Japanese Breakfast Japanese Breakfast’s breakthrough album “Soft Sounds from Another Planet” has more or less become overlooked as the band’s success has

grown with their subsequent release “Jubilee.” However, this album is more than worth the listen with some of their best tracks being on it.

The meditative and serene opening tracks “Diving Woman” and “Road Head” setting the tone for the rest of the album. This tracklist still contains one of their most popular songs, “Boyish,” which gives more of a lyrical approach compared to the rest of the songs. Lead singer Michelle Zauner’s vocals creates an auditory blanket to comfort the viewer while she pours her heart out about love and love lost.

“For Emma, Forever Ago” by Bon Iver Justin Vernon’s first album introduced the world to the rawness of “Bon Iver.” Starting with the acoustic intro “Flume,” where you can almost hear the wind outside of Vernon’s cabin, then leading to his popular and emotional performance in “Skinny Love.”

If the wind could be heard during “Flume” you can picture the rain and wetness during “Skinny Love.” He gets to the point of almost screaming in this song, you can feel his pain throughout the whole album and you hear it as well.

“Folklore” by Taylor Swift This selection really needs no introduction. Without a doubt the most known of these five choices comes from the most popular artist in America. Swift’s eighth album is a departure from her previous pop tunes, settling for a more interesting experience.

She creates an almost wooded atmosphere where a cardigan is necessary. With masterpieces in storytelling like “the 1,” “the last great american dynasty” and “betty,” this album makes the listener feel like they are sitting around a campfire hearing folktales of stories from long ago.

Photo

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14 Sports

St. John’s Men’s and Women’s Tennis Play ITA Regionals Both teams picked up several wins during the four day weekend. isabElla cautEro | oct. 13, 2023

The St. John’s Men’s and Women’s Tennis Teams secured multiple wins at the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Northeast Regionals. Both tournaments lasted four days, with the men playing in Philadelphia and the women playing at Manhattan’s Milstein Tennis Center.

The ITA Regionals features the top men’s and women’s players from across the country. The month-long event ran from Sept. 21 through Oct. 23 at 14 different universities. The St. John’s Men’s team was hosted by University of Pennsylvania, and the women’s team was hosted by Columbia University from Oct. 6 through Oct. 9.

Many standout performances on the singles courts made the difference for the Johnnies.

St. John’s Women’s Tennis ITA Regionals Performance: The women opened up the tournament with two singles victories. Graduate student Mouna Bouzgarrou earned a bye through the first round of 128, while sophomore Victoria Papadopoulou picked up a win against Stony Brook in straight sets, 6-0, 6-3. Graduate student Arina Gumerova defeated her previous team of Seton Hall in straight sets against freshman Anastasia Sereda.

In the round of 64 Bouzgarrou defeated Wagner 6-3, 6-0. In last year’s spring season Bouzgarrou recorded a 28-8 record as a singles player, while also being named team MVP and making it to the

round of 32 at the ITA Super Regionals. In the rest of singles play, Papadopoulou fell to Columbia in straight sets, while Gumerova was defeated

by Army in a close match, 6-3, 6-4. In doubles, partners Papadopoulou and Camila Ordonez beat Lehigh in a pro-set, 8-3, but lost in the next round of 32 to Army.

Bouzgarrou went on to win her third match in the round of 32, but fell short in the round of 16 against Long Island University (LIU). The second doubles pairing for the Red Storm, freshman Nicoline Sartz-Lunde and graduate student Willa Bay Breunich punched their way through the tournament to the quarterfinals before losing to Fordham.

The team finished up their fall season at the UB Invite at the University of Buffalo on Nov. 5.

St. John’s Men’s Tennis ITA Regionals Performance: The men’s team opened up their tournament run with many strong singles performances. Standout junior from Stockholm, Carl Gustavsson earned a first round bye, and went on to beat Drexel and NJIT before losing in the round of 16 to Penn. He played a total of nine sets in singles play, winning five sets in total for the weekend. As a sophomore Gustavsson was named First Team All Big East selection after going 29-12 in singles play.

Junior Ryota Kaneda also impressed at the four

day event by advancing to the round of 16. He racked up a team high of three victories against Lehigh, Princeton and Niagra before falling to Cornell in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2. He co-lead the Johnnies in singles play alongside Gustavsson last season with a 15-4 record.

Graduate student Martin Bugaj also recorded a singles win against St. Bonaventure in a close match, going into a tiebreaker to finish off the first set, 7-6. He went on to lose in the round of 32 in a close match against Penn, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4. In doubles, Gustavsson and partner Adam Groves sailed through to the round of 32 before ultimately losing to Lehigh.

The men’s team finished up their fall slate at the Dragon Invitational at Drexel University on Nov. 5.

Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan Torch Photo / Isabella Cautero

Life After the Storm: Nicolas Fleuriau Chateau The redshirt senior completed his comeback season.

EmiliE Hakansson | oct. 11, 2023

From the countryside in Ottawa to the busy life in New York City, soccer has always followed Nicolas Fleuriau Chateau. The redshirt junior forward sat down for an interview with The Torch about his journey with soccer, his time at St. John’s, and his future prospects.

Soccer has always been a focal point in Chateau’s family. He was first introduced to the sport through his older brother, whom he would watch play before eventually embarking on his own journey with soccer.

“Even now I’ve always kinda wanted to be like him,” Chateau said. At the age of four, Chateau and his twin sister started playing soccer themselves. While his sister’s soccer career was short-lived, his love for the sport and his dream of playing professionally has always driven him to keep going.

Playing in college offers what Chateau describes as “the best of both worlds,” as he can chase his childhood dream while also earning a degree. He lists playing soccer professionally and being a firefighter as the two paths in life that have ever really interested him. Pursuing a career as a firefighter once he retires from soccer is what pushed him to enroll in the Criminal Justice program.

Chateau caught the attention of the program’s coaches at a tournament in Florida shortly af-

ter arriving back home in Canada. He then was asked to come visit the St. John’s campus. The program had just come off of a huge season, including an NCAA tournament appearance, which was one of the things that attracted Chateau.

Another element was the possibility of experiencing life in a big city like New York. After the visit, Chateau was sold. Even with other visits lined up, he immediately committed to play for Coach Dr. David Masur.

After tearing his ACL during a spring game in 2022, Chateau has made a comeback this season, scoring at least one goal in seven of ten games the team have competed in so far. Getting injured is never easy, especially for athletes with big dreams like Chateau. When talking about his injury time, he emphasized the importance of staying optimistic through it.

“I’m the kind of person with things like this, it happened, I can’t change anything,” Chateau said. “I just focused on the recovery a hundred percent and never looked back. I never thought ‘Why me, why this, why that?’ I was like alright, it happened, we move forward.”

Chateau credited the road to his recovery with the help and support from his friends and the sports medicine staff at St. John’s.

“One of the biggest lessons I have learned is patience because I’ve had to wait for my turn,”

Chateau said.

Seeing limited playing time in his first years at St. John’s Chateau learned the lessons of patience and dedication. Lessons he will take with him once he finishes his athletic and academic career.

“Do the right things and the right things will come to you,” he said when asked what his experiences at St. John’s has taught him. “Throughout those years, I’ve worked hard, done what was asked of me, learned how to do the right things. I’d say patience and just the belief that at the end of the day you will get rewarded for doing the right things.”

Chateau finished the 2023 season as the Johnnies’ top scorer.

Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan

torchonline.com

“Rising Storm” Episodes Three and Four: Pitino’s East River Plunge The all-access docuseries comes to a close.

Sports 15 St. John’s Men’s Soccer Season in Review The Johnnies finished the 2023 season 8-4-5 overall after a solid year of play.

Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan T

James Williams | Nov. 2, 2023

Kyler Fox | oct. 10, 2023

With the conclusion of “Rising Storm,” fans were finally given their first look at the only two returning members of last year’s squad — team captain Joel Soriano and redshirt sophomore Drissa Traore.

Highlighted in episode three, the two focused on what it means to play basketball in New York.

“Being a New York guy and being here for two years, I think what feels different is the urgency,” Traore said.

The Harlem native was seldomly used by the previous coaching staff.

After redshirting in his freshman season, Traore only logged 49 total minutes of play last season. Despite his lack of usage, head coach Rick Pitino saw enough potential in Traore to ask him to return instead of opting for the transfer portal.

“I’m the energy guy,” Traore said.

“You[‘re] going to be seeing me on and off the court, just being the hype man.”

Much like Traore, Soriano is also looking to put his home back on the basketball map. Growing up in White Plains, New York, he too discussed what it would mean to bring St. John’s back to prominence.

“I want to bring this city back to where it needs to be,” Soriano said.

“To be able to do that, to be able to win and give the fans something to root for is something that I want to do.”

Soriano had a breakout season in 2022-23, averaging 15.2 points and

11.9 rebounds per game, while on his way to the second most double-doubles (25) in the nation. Only Purdue’s Zach Edey (27) recorded more.

The episode ended with the series’ first appearance of basketball royalty, Lou Carnesecca. The former St. John’s head coach was invited by Pitino to speak to the team. The two legends were already familiar with each other, having clashed in Big East Tournaments throughout the late 80s while Pitino was the head coach at Providence. “[We] had some great games, [and] great moments. To get St. John’s back, it’s going to take the effort of not only the basketball team, not only the coaches but the entire fan base,” Pitino said. “We’ve got to get our fans excited and stimulated about the style of play. We’ve got to get everybody at St. John’s in the athletic department excited about Red Storm basketball.”

Episode four focused on the three players Coach Pitino brought over from last year’s Iona roster. Cruz Davis, Sadiku Ayo and Daniss Jenkins have all experienced what it’s like to play for the Hall of Fame coach.

Davis will be looking for an increased role with the Red Storm.

The Plano, Texas native posted a solid freshman season at Iona, averaging 6.5 points per game (PPG) on 41.9% from the field.

“I played for Coach P[itino] last

year and I’m used to his coaching style and how he wants to play,” Davis said. “We just want to get better one step at a time, take little steps every day.”

Much like Davis, Ayo is also looking for more opportunities this season. The forward from Ghana logged around 10 minutes per night last season, adding 2.6 points and 1.5 rebounds per game. “[Coach Pitino] is someone that will challenge you every single day,” Ayo said. “He pushes us every single day, no matter what.”

The final Iona addition was Daniss Jenkins. The junior from Dallas, Texas is the early favorite to land the starting point guard job. After missing out on Walter Clayton Jr. in the transfer portal, Jenkins became the next top priority for Coach Pitino.

Last season, Jenkins averaged 15.6 points and 4.9 assists per game. His 15.6 PPG would have led all players on the 2022-23 Red Storm.

“Daniss is a guy that impacts the game in so many ways,” associate head coach Steve Masiello said. “In the open court, he’s a dynamic, explosive guard. [He is a] much improved shooter [and] a high level defender.”

The final episode finished with an all-time Rick Pitino quote.

“To be perfectly honest, if we don’t win a national championship, I’m jumping in the East River and ending my career.”

For the St. John’s Men’s Soccer team, this has been a season built on cold and hot streaks with star performers pulling the Johnnies through it all.

Coach David Masur’s Johnnies started their season with a win against Lehigh on Aug. 24, and went on to win the next three out of five games. They capped this run with a resounding 7-1 victory against Temple, showcasing the Johnnies high powered offense with seven different players scoring.

To round out the first half of the season, the Johnnies dropped two straight games including a 2-1 loss to UConn in the first Big East matchup of the season on Sept. 15.

In this first half, redshirt junior forward Nicolas Fleuriau Chateau emerged as an offensive leader for the team. Chateau is currently top three within the Big East in scoring with 14 goals and six of those coming in the first half of the season.

St. John’s began the second half of their season strong with an impressive showing against the No. 4 ranked Akron on Sept. 23, drawing at 1-1.

Undoubtedly, this match built confidence within the team as they went on to win and draw four games each, going 3-1-4 overall in conference play.

This record earned the team the fourth seed in the Big East Tournament.

The Johnnies defense came into their own as the season progressed, with senior goalkeeper Alec McLachlan performing excellently. McLachlan and the Johnnies back line earned three clean sheets in eight games while holding ranked opponents like Akron to one goal in what was his best performance of the season.

Senior defender Thomas Lamille was another valuable piece for the back line with production on both sides of the field. He recorded three assists in two straight matches and was a major part in holding ranked opponents like Georgetown and Akron to only one goal. On Oct. 23 Lamille took home Big East defender of the week honors for his stellar efforts.

Chateau continued his fantastic play in the second half of the season with two multi scoring games, one of these being in a pivotal Big East matchup against Creighton which resulted in a 2-2 draw. Chateau was awarded Big East offensive player of the week on Oct. 31 after this dominant performance.

Chateau, Lamille and the rest of the Johnnies ultimately fell to UConn in double overtime in the inaugural match of the Big East Tournament.

SPORTS VOLUME 101:13 OCTOBER ISSUE TORCHONLINE.COM

St. John's Triumphs

In Double Overtime vs. Rutgers Torch Photo / Sara Kiernan Sara Kiernan | Oct. 22, 2023

The Johnnies beat the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 89-78 in double overtime during an exhibition game raising money for pediatric cancer research through the Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund at The V Foundation.

The first game of head coach Rick Pitino’s era started off with high energy as the arena was packed with fans, students and spectators. Pitino put together his starting five as Nahiem Alleyne, Daniss Jenkins, Chris Ledlum, Glenn Taylor Jr. and captain Joel Soriano.

The Johnnies initiated a full-court press early on in the first half, forcing multiple turnovers by the Scarlet Knights. The Johnnies had 13 fast breaks, 10 points from the paint and 16 points off the bench.

Pitino was very vocal on the sidelines, constantly pacing back and forth even though the team was up the entire first half. Every available player checked into the game. The Johnnies were short handed with Jordan Dingle out with a left shoulder injury and RJ Luis and Cruz Davis with broken hands were all not available for the game.

As the clock ticked down, the Johnnies went on a 14-4 run with the Knights not scoring for nine minutes.

The first half ended with a standing ovation from the crowd with 15 seconds left on the clock. The Johnnies were up 42-23. The game was working

at the Johnnies’ pace, quick and attentive to every play.

The second half was a different story.

St. John’s saw multiple errors on the floor that were the result of rushed plays and a tired defense.

Soriano had a chance to close the game out but missed two free throws with under a minute left in regulation.

By the end of regulation, the game was tied 6767. Even though this game was just an exhibition match, overtime started quickly.

Going back onto the court, the original five started off slowly trying to regain control of the court.

After already playing a full regulation game, many of the players look winded on continuing the fastpace play.

With less than ten seconds left in overtime, Ledlum passed to Alleyne who missed his first take and Ledlum rebounded it back to him to sink the three-pointer to tie the game and move it to double overtime.

In double overtime, the Johnnies were ready to end the battle against the Knights. The men were able to take back the lead within the first minute and a half with the score becoming 78-75. As the overtime continued, Taylor Jr. and Soriano held down the fort on the court to finally finish the game.

Taylor Jr. and Alleyne spoke to the media after

the game about the arena’s environment and lessons learned from their first Red Storm appearance.

“I felt like that was great, especially with a team of 14 guys who haven’t played one game with each other,” Taylor Jr. said about preparing for the upcoming season. “That’s the only that will help us get in the way.”

For Alleyne, the game did not feel like it was an exhibition game. “It felt like a Big East Tournament game, how all the fans were into it,” Alleyne said. “I was excited about that.”

“There was a lot of people in the crowd and now, just keep coming out there,” Alleyne continued.

“We’re gonna keep proving to [the fans] that we deserve it.”

After the game, Pitino spoke to the media and said something many would not have thought a coach would say following a double overtime bout.

“I told the team ‘I rather have lost than win by 20,’” Pitino said. “Because of all the lessons you can learn with a close game, we did so much with just a great experience.”

A double overtime match showed Pitino that there was much more room for growth on the team. “[The team showcased] about 50% of our potential, which is great,” Pitino said.

The Johnnies began their season at Carnesecca Arena on Nov. 7 against Stony Brook.