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CONTENT Page 3- LIU Chooses The Next SGA Team Page 4- Corruption in China LIU Hosts Polk Awards Page 5- UHMS Hosts Relay for Life Event Page 5- Campus Camera Page 6- Exit Interview with SGA President Page 6- News In Brief Page 7- LIU Brooklyn Changes to Voting Polls
RICHARD NAU
Media Specialist
Page 7- Long Time LIU Professor Retires Page 8 - Security Tightens After Attacks Page 9- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Page 10- Career Services Page 12- Entertainment Weekly Page 12- Cassie Is Back Page 13- Behind The Scenes With Bebe Miller Company
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Page 14- Women’s Lacrosse Ends Season Without Win Page 15- Women’s Golf Defeats Columbia Page 15- Men’s Golf Completes Final Events Page 16- Women’s Tennis Ends At The NEC Page 17- Getting To Know Taysha Blessington Page 18- Softball Sees A Change in Pace Page 19 - Baseball Goes on Four Game Win Streak
LIU CHOOSES THE NEXT STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION TEAM
Africana Studies and Gender Studies programs at LIU present: “Blackbird: Adapting the First Gay Coming Out Novel from the Page to the Screen”. Join a discussion with Patrik-Ian Polk, writer and director of “Noah’s Arc”. April 30, LLC 122. The program is free and open to the pubic. The discussion starts at 7 pm. Contact Michael.Bennett@ liu.edu for more information. Mark Bittman’s column, The Minimalist, ran in the Dining section of the New York Times for more than thirteen years. Join him April 30 as he provides tangible guidance for Americans rethinking their diets. Doors open at 5 pm in the Arnold & Marie Schwartz Gymnasium. Tickets: $20, general admission; $10, students; $175, VIP Dinner (A separate dinner follows this event). For more information, visit www. BrooklynFoodCoalition.org.
BY: KEELEY IBRAHIM
IU Brooklyn is under new leadership. The votes were tallied Thursday, April 18 for the next Student Government Association leaders.
After months of campaigning, independent candidate Anthony Allen won the position as SGA Executive President. “I put a lot of work into this,” says Allen. “My supporters also helped to get the word around.” The interim election results stated that Allen won with 603 votes, nearly doubling the votes received by Sean Isaiah James and Pedrito Exume, respectively. Allen says he believes he secured the SGA presidential spot by constantly speaking with the students. “I actually gave speeches in classes and had my supporters tell their friends about me.” Some LIU Brooklyn students have expressed frustration with the SGA campaigns and whether some female voters choose their candidate based on popularity and not based on their platforms—Allen is currently facing these criticisms. “You’re always going to deal with controversy when you’re running for a leadership position,” says Allen. “I really don’t pay that any mind. I have a lot of supporters that are men as well as women.” Joining Allen in the Student Government Association will be Maxim Celestin, who won the position of executive vice president by a vote of 483. “Hard work pays off. I really dedicated myself for the past 3 months,” says Celestin, who ran on a separate ticket with Sean I. James, Bianca Lahiji-Nir and Taiesa Heath. “We all had the same type of views on many things,” he said, talking about his former running mates. “We would have done something to change this university to make it better. I’m a little disappointed.” Celestin was the only one from his ticket to win for the position he was vying for and he thanks his former team for pushing him. “If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be here right now. There were times when I thought I was giving up,
The Student Government Association, Executive Vice President, Maxim Celestin, Secretary, Shaharrah Richards, President, Anthony Allen and Treasurer, Anessa Osbourne. Photo: Keeley Ibrahim
but they told me to stay in it.”
May 7.
Although Celestin is now part of a new team of SGA leaders, he intends to sit down for a one-on-one with his new executive board over the summer to compare thoughts and ideas. “Each of us have great ideas,” says Celestin, who expressed thanks to Sean I. James, Rafael Molina, and Caribbean Student Movement President Samantha Mitchell for guiding him through this tough campaign.
“We’ve all preached unity, but I want to show it,” says Osborne. “Within the first three months [of next semester], we’re going to have a lot of things to show and prove that we can be united.” Osborne says that although each candidate ran separately, “it’ll work out better moving forward.” The diversity amongst the group will help to strengthen the plans SGA makes in the future, Osborne says. Osborne plans on attending Rutgers University for law school after graduating in May 2014.
Another candidate who believes dedication helped in her SGA win for executive treasurer is Aneesa Osborne, who will enter the next semester as a junior and Political Science major. “It felt nice to fight and work hard for something and have it shown through your success,” says Osborne. “It feels great to win. It still hasn’t really sunk in yet.” The position of SGA treasury had four candidates running, more than any other seats open. One of the first challenges Osborne hopes to overcome is allocating the budget kits for all LIU Brooklyn student organizations; she said that the team isn’t going to make any official plans until their inauguration on
Returning to the SGA role of executive secretary will be Shaharrah Richards, who will be entering her senior year this fall. “It’s not guaranteed that [I] would have won office,” said Richards, “but this was my second term so a lot of people knew about me and what I did [last term].” Richards said that although she put up a tough campaign, she ran against a great opponent in Taiesa Heath. Richards says that she was excited when she heard she’d won because she worked really hard to get her name out again during the campaign.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Get ready to party with your fellow LIU Brooklyn graduates of 2013! The Student Government Association presents: SKYFALL, an LIU Brooklyn 2013 Graduation Ball. Dress in your best semiformal attire May 3. Located at the Steiner’s Studio Stage 6, 15 Washington Ave, Brooklyn Navy Yard, NY, 11205. For more information contact SLLD: (718) 488-1216 or stop by the SGA office, M-208. Party starts at 8 pm!
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BY: KEELEY IBRAHIM
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CORRUPTION IN CHINA: LIU HOSTS POLK AWARDS SEMINAR
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BY: NOELANI MONTERO
IU Brooklyn’s Kumble Theater was filled to capacity for the annual Polk Awards Seminar on April 10.
Titled “A Revolution Betrayed: Covering Corruption and Human Rights in China,” the seminar hosted 2012 Polk Award recipients Holly Williams, David Barboza, and Wenxin Fan—these journalists were honored for exposing critical information and insight on injustices in China. Moderated by Polk Awards curator John Darnton, the panelists were asked questions that led deeper into their respective investigations and experiences.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Holly Williams of CBS News won a Polk Award for Television News Reporting. Williams journeyed to the village of Chen Guangcheng, an activist who escaped the country after years being under house arrest. After many setbacks, she was able to speak to the family members Guangcheng left behind. Because of her quick thinking and fluent knowledge of the Mandarin language, Williams was able to deliver this award-winning report.
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During the seminar Williams described Guangcheng as a “barefoot lawyer” who advocates for rights often involving claims of violence and forced abortions. She also noted the first time she met Guangcheng and his wife—in a Starbucks in Beijing. “[Guangcheng] escaped. He had people watching him in his home from the local government,” Williams said. David Barboza and Wenxin Fan each won a Polk Award for Foreign Reporting. Barboza, a New York Times writer, earned the Polk with his three part article series “The Pricelings.” The articles uncovered the financial interests of Chinese officials and their families. “People know about it, but not in large detail. I realized, why is no one writing this?” said Barboza in response to a question of whether the general population in China is aware of inequalities occurring regarding wealthy families. Fan, along with Bloomberg News staff,
Distinguished journalists met to discuss China’s high-level corruption at the George Polk Awards Seminar in LIU Brooklyn’s Kumble Theater on April 10, 2013. Polk Awards Curator John Darnton (left) led a panel consisting of David Barboza of The New York Times, Holly Williams of CBS News and Wenxin Fan of Bloomberg News (clockwise from left). Photo: Mark McQueen
won their Polk Award for the article series “China Betrayed,” which exposed the inequalities of China’s ruling class. The extreme wealth of Chongqing leader Bo Xilai was also investigated. During the seminar Fan showed two diagrams that embodied the relations between China’s richest and most powerful families. He also showed percentages of how much of China’s overall funds were distributed amongst these families and much it differed from the wealth of the typical Chinese family. “We did what Bloomberg does. It’s about numbers,” Fan said. “This is one of the biggest [issues] in China right now; it’s a story about an issue of money and power.” Both Fan and Barboza noted the importance and the usefulness of public documents in their investigations. However, Fan noted how it was difficult determining “who’s who,” because many
of the families covered have existed for many generations. Darnton asked the journalists about some of the challenges they faced both covering and executing their stories. “I think they tried their best efforts to stop us from publishing it,” said Fan on uncovering the powerful families’ secrets. Barboza added: “It was clear that there would be grave consequences if this article came out.” Despite the dangers involved with writing these investigative articles, the three panelists remained steadfast and reported on the corruption in China in order to bring this looming issue to light.
David Barboza of The New York TImes (left) elaborates a point to Polk Awards Curator John Darton at the George Polk Awards Seminar in LIU Brooklyn’s Kumble Theater on April 10, 2013. Barboza was joined by fellow Polk Award winner Holly Williams of CBS News (right). Photo: Mark McQueen
UHMS HOSTS RELAY FOR LIFE EVENT
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niversity Health Medical Services (UHMS) hosted the “Relay for Life” walk in the Schwartz Gym from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 23. The event was held to raise money for the American Cancer Society.
Participants were engaged in a walk around the entire gymnasium. It was a unique opportunity that offered students, faculty, and the surrounding community to team up in the fight against cancer. According to UHMS, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. was the Survivor/Celebration Hour that included the National Anthem, a cancer survivor ceremony that featured select survivor stories, and survivor laps. 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. was the Luminaria Remembrance Hour including a Luminaria ceremony, memories moments, remembrance laps, and a moment of silence for those who have succumbed to cancer. The last hour was dedicated to a closing ceremony, raising the bar leaders laps and special acknowledgments. There were six teams run by LIU Brooklyn students and faculty members
BY: ANISHA ROBERTSON
V.R. Small, Amanda Atunzu, Tasmin Farzana, Marie Feline Guerrier, Gabnel Joseph, Cynthia Gadar Mercado and Audrey Oquaye.
A total of 27 participants planned to reach different goals in their groups to raise a possible $10,000 for the American Cancer Society. VR Small, Director of LIU Brooklyn’s UHMS, encouraged community involvement in the event. “We should all be jumping up and saying ‘I’m doing my part,’” Small said. This is the third annual “Relay for Life” event, but the first on the Brooklyn Campus as Superstorm Sandy greatly affected the society’s usual venue in Queens. Despite the displacement, the event received positive feedback. “I thought [the event] was really great,” said English major Samiah Aljahmi. “Not only was it a way to involve students for the cause, but it got students to exercise with the activities such as basketball and golf. I was glad to be able to donate to [this cause].” The “Relay for Life” event was a success,
Volunteers awaiting participants in the Schwartz Gym for the Relay for Life event hosted by University Health & Medical Services on April 23. Photo: Alka Gupta
but Small is not about to rest on her laurels. “This is not the end of it, cancer is taking lives every day and it is devastating,” Small said. “It is one time to come together, but certainly not the end of it.”
BY: JUSTIN ELLIS
Doren Plummer, Respiratory Care, Sophomore
Johanna Polanco, Sports Science, Junior
Clinton C. Moore Jr., Media Arts, Junior
Sira Pollard, Psychology, Freshman
“I voted since I had friends in the election. I wasn’t really concerned with their goals and aspirations but I was instead looking to help my friends.”
“Yes I voted because what [the candidates] were promoting was appealing to me. I feel that the new candidates had a proactive approach to the race.”
“I voted because the candidates showed integrity, which made them worthy to vote for.”
“Yes I voted because I had friends in the election and wanted to see them making a change in student life. I would love to see them improve things the previous candidates failed to do.”
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
CAMPUS CAMERA: DID YOU VOTE IN THE RECENT SGA ELECTION?
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EXIT INTERVIEW WITH SGA PRESIDENT JERMAINE ISAAC
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his is Jermaine Isaac’s second and final term as LIU Brooklyn’s Student Government President. “I’m graduating in May with a degree in Media Arts and going to graduate school for political science at LIU,” says Isaac. With hopes of becoming a lawyer, he credits his time as SGA President as an inspiration.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
2011 was his first year assuming the role: “The first day [in office] was a strike,” Isaac recalled. “I’ve seen other presidents go through stress, but when I became president, it got real.”
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The teacher’s strike during his first term was like a glimpse into the hardships experienced this year, which was his second term. One student party turned into a huge brawl in the Avena Lounge, which led to the arrests of several LIU Men’s Basketball players. “It was a difficult situation and as a result it damaged our whole semester,” says Isaac. Other disastrous incidents occurred as well, such as Superstorm Sandy crippling NYC requiring the campus to shut down for a few days and the Blackbird Cafe closing due to a failing sanitation grade. “This student government immediately acted,” he said. “We were finding answers the same day that the cafeteria was shut down.” The passing of several community members also Isaac greatly. The deceased students, such as Jason Henry,
campus strained include Marisha
BY: ONISSA SANCHO
Cheong and Benjamin Presley, History Professor John Brennan and Residence Life & Housing Director Dr. Rodney G. Pink, who was a mentor to Isaac. “I attended more memorials than my own family here at LIU Brooklyn,” Isaac said.
“This is not easy, this is not a fun job, it’s a political job and you have to be a servant in this position,” Isaac said. As a student and SGA president the two intertwine, therefore Isaac has to draw a line between them. “My personal life exits at the door, it does not come in [the office]. When I come in here (office) I want to get the work done.” From the eyes of a student looking in, Isaac believes students think things come easy for members of the SGA. “Some students don’t like us because they think we’re getting all these perks and we’re not,” Isaac said. “Tuition remissions, and free housing,” are the perks he mentioned. “The only other perks are headaches.” Some accomplishments Isaac would like to be remembered for are student parking, located near the BAM Theater in the GBMC parking lot and raising over $7,000 in scholarships. “I was professional at the end of the day,” Isaac said. “I may have slipped a few times, but I remained professional.” Former SGA President Ty Christian Joseph influenced and encouraged Isaac to run for office. “I saw Ty as
Exiting SGA President Jermaine Isaac, who is graduating this May. Photo: Onissa Sancho
the president and he was a leader he stood on his own,” recalls Isaacs. “He graduated and went off to South Korea, and he’s teaching in Ethiopia now.” Isaac considered Joseph to be a role model because he is an African American male who wasn’t afraid to step out of his comfort zone in pursuit of a higher cause. Joseph is now an English Professor in Ethiopia—Isaac gives him credit since it was Joseph’s character that made Isaac think, “I want to be like this guy, but even better.” Isaac’s advice to the next president:
“You’re here for the students, that’s the first thing you have to put in your head. Be a chameleon, you’ve got to fit in [on campus],” he said. “When something happens, you’ve got to be ready to say something.” SGA President Jermaine Isaac’s days in office and as an undergraduate are almost over. This May, he will be a member of the first LIU class to graduate in the Barclay Center. “I just want people to remember that I conducted myself like a president,” he said.
NEWS IN BRIEF: LIU BROOKLYN STUDENT FIGHTS BACK WITH PROFESSOR
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physical altercation took place during a Speech 3 class on the Brooklyn Campus April 15, which led to an arrest of a student and the hospitalization of a professor.
BY: SHAELYNE MOODIE
Christopher Reynolds, a second semester freshman and nursing major, was arrested for allegedly assaulting his professor, Mike Pasternack, while class was in session. Pasternack was hospitalized due to his injuries.
himself.” Pasternack allegedly attacked Reynolds from behind by pulling the student’s hoodie over his head a repeatedly punching him in the back of the head. When Reynolds got a hold of Pasternack, he struck back, leaving his own knuckles bruised. Students in the class stated that altercation was very random but it is said that the student and professor weren’t on friendly terms and openly displayed a dislike for one another.
Some witnesses claim that Reynolds did not start the fight, but “did defend
LIU Brooklyn officials including Dean Kim Williams declined to make
a statement on this recent incident, but Dr. Ralph Engelman, Chair of the Journalism and Communications Department, did acknowledge that this was an “unfortunate event.” Pasternack has yet to make a statement. Reynolds has been reportedly dismissed from the campus with a cleared bill and the option to reapply for the fall semester. It is unclear whether Pasternack’s position as an LIU Brooklyn professor is in jeopardy. The official investigation is still pending.
LIU Brooklyn student Christopher Reynolds alledgedly assaulted his Speech professor on April 15. Photo: Shaelyne Moodie
LIU BROOKLYN CHANGES TO VOTING POLLS
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BY: SHAELYNE MOODIE
ith the recent SGA Executive Election, LIU Brooklyn has taken a new technical avenue in terms of collecting the voting ballots. After many years of the students physically clicking and drawing back the handle to cast a ballot, the voting ballot is now be touchscreen; as simple as an easy tap to select each candidate. Karlene Thompson, Director of Student Life & Leadership Development, heavily supported the upgrade of the digitalized ballot, which was approved by the LIU Board of Trustees. The goal was to access the “same voting ballot that New York State requires but was unable to do so.” Thompson, alongside with the Board of Trustees felt it was time the Brooklyn Campus modernized the ballot for today’s technologies. Since this generation of students is more technologically savvy, it seemed natural for Student Life to change to electronic ballots. LIU Brooklyn already gives incoming students touchscreen gadgets such as Apple’s iPad—Thompson herself even calls the old process “very arcadelike.”
Honest Ballot Association representative Cecille Santos helps an LIU Brooklyn student navigate the new electronic SGA ballot in the Metcalfe Lobby on April 17, 2012.
Photo: Chase Melvin
When asked how confident LIU Brooklyn is with the technology of this new voting ballot, Thompson acknowledged that since it is a new, digitalized concept, there could be a couple of potential glitches but is more than confident that “it will serve its purpose.” Even though the poll has
Retiring LIU Brooklyn professor Dr. Michael Hittman. Photo: Michaelhittman.com
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fter 46 years of devotion to the LIU Brooklyn community, retiring professor Dr. Michael Hittman says “see you later” to his second family. Hittman was a sociology professor on
Brooklyn. It also shows where [our] money is going to,” said Lakajia Coleman.
Students around campus are welcoming the technique change of the ballot. “I think this is a good look for LIU
Many students feel the idea of the ballot being touchscreen is very easy and convenient.
BY: ASHLEY THOMPSON
campus, and he is currently on the LIU Board of Trustees. Along with being a LIU Brooklyn graduate, Hittman served as the curator of the Brooklyn Paramount (now the Arnold and Marie Schwartz Athletic Center); he remained a part of the LIU Brooklyn community to educate aspiring students with his generosity, care, and intelligence.
“Dr. Hittman was one of the best professors here at LIU Brooklyn—he was more than just a professor, he was a supporter, friend and caregiver,” said Mina Pacheco, a secretary in the Sociology Department. “We can be selfish by wanting him to stay, but we must support him as he would support us.”
For Hittman, retiring from LIU Brooklyn doesn’t mean that he will turn his back to the LIU community, which supported and allowed him to thrive as a student and a professor.
In addition to being a professor at LIU Brooklyn, Hittman was a positive role model to his students; his humorous personality has earned him the nomination of “one of a kind” on campus.
“I’m not leaving, I could still teach a course if I wanted,” Hittman said. “LIU Brooklyn is my home.” From students to faculty members at LIU Brooklyn, the retirement of Dr. Hittman is considered bittersweet for several reasons.
“I always take my work seriously, not myself,” Hittman said. “My classes have been engagingly conversational and students could go on for hours about the topic at hand. It’s rewarding to see students having fun and excited about coming to class.”
Hittman is content to open the doors to a new and thriving future, and he is glad to see the reforms of topics that many professors can relate to. “I will definitely just miss the students of LIU Brooklyn—going into the classroom is motivating and thrilling each [time],” Hittman said. “I always placed the school first and my opinions last.” Hittman’s message to the LIU Brooklyn community is: “Remember to always be thankful, be glad to teach and embrace others, I am a fool for what I love, I love my profession and I never thought it was mundane,” he said. Having two of his books previously published, Hittman plans to now focus on his writing that he hasn’t failed to produce during his tenure as a teacher.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
LONG TIME LIU PROFESSOR RETIRES
become modern, the ballot will still be counted the traditional way of having each candidate selects a student to do so.
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SECURITY TIGHTENS AFTER ATTACKS
Police officer clears the streets in Boylston Street after the explosion at the Boston Marathon. Photo: AP/ Charles Krupa
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remember September 11, 2001 all too clearly. It was a beautiful sunny, morning with blue skies and no one suspected a thing. After the attack on the World Trade Center, security changed completely throughout the
country – in airports, and New Yorkers began to see an increase in police presence in the subway and throughout the city on buses, trains and in places of interests that would attract a large volume of people.
STUDY HABITS ON CAMPUS
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
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wo weeks remain and soon the Spring semester at LIU Brooklyn will be a memory of the past. However, within these two weeks, final exam sessions are right around the corner.
Studying to me is not cut, paste and dry to my understanding. I like recording notes to listen and digest the information. Also when I study for Chemistry and Biology, I would use flash cards. Lately, I discovered that I am not a visual learner but more of a kinesthetic and auditory learner. Most students at LIU Brooklyn have different and/or the same learning styles. Auditory learners use listening as an approach. They can repeat the information verbally while listening to music in the background to focus better. Visual learners, utilize observation, they learn by viewing graphics, reading or viewing a demonstration. Their difficulty is concentrating while listening to an explanation. “Hands-on” approaches are methods are that enable kinesthetic learners to process subject material better. Overall, a Renaissance learner is a combination of all three
BY: SHANNON THOMAS
The whole country was on alert. Fast forward to December 2012, schools were preparing for Winter break and anyone with an ID could walk into an elementary school. No one fathomed such a horrific act on innocent children was to come. Since the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting, those practices are now a thing of the past. Now here we are in 2013, a week after the Boston Marathon bombing and security has momentarily heightened again across the country after an act of terrorism has ravaged the U.S. Why do law enforcement and the government wait until something drastic happens before they increase security? When acts of terrorism do happen because of slackened security practices, everyone is always in shock. But what can one expect of terrorists when there are gaps of opportunities for attacks? If laws and security were being properly enforced in the first place,
perhaps some of these tragedies could have been prevented. The upcoming marathon in London has tightened their security just in case a similar situation arises. It’s common sense to increase security at a high profile event, that is a practice that should have been protocol in order to protect such a large number of people. Because there were no leads about the bomber’s identity, many people assumed the attacker was Muslim. Later that evening, ‘Muslim’ was a trending topic on Twitter. The hateful slander that was posted on the social website was disgusting. Racial Profiling is still a real issue in this country. That is one of the many problems with social media, information spreads so quickly, but not all of the information is correct. It also basically becomes a melting pot for opinions backed by irrational feelings and uneducated statements that brings out the worst in people.
BY: JESSICA LISSAINT
learning styles.
According to Mediabistro, college students are tired of doing readings for finals, causing heavy cramming at the end. In 2012 alone, medical & nursing majors read 55 pages, business majors read about 40 pages, science majors read 45 pages, and math and social science majors read about 40 pages during the middle of their college term. In retrospect, I consulted one on one tutoring at LIU Brooklyn’s Academic Resource Center (ARC) for my Math and Chemistry classes last semester. I also recall doing the SQ3R Method (Survey Question Read Recite and Review) because I could not bear reading a textbook word for word regardless of the topic. When I continued using SQ3R, the course material seemed more organized for me to study. Furthermore, I considered having study partners especially for my science classes. When I study at home, I study in quiet space. I avoid answering texts or calls from my phone, however this was difficult for me to do at first. I crammed hardcore the first two years of college until I monitored my weaknesses and gradually
my studying habits improved. When it comes to upcoming final exams, senior Sillah, a Health Sciences major stated, “I am excited, taking finals is like a game to test what you know. Its a game with yourself.” She plans to study by memorizing, recording notes to listen during train rides. “I also quiz myself,” she added. What is simple for Sillah about studying is making sure she understands the material, by explaining it to someone else. The most difficult aspect of studying, is studying with someone else (study groups) because everyone learns at different paces. “Some of my fellow classmates can learn either faster than me or slower than me.” The LIU Brooklyn ARC caters to assist students who have trouble with their course subjects. Courtney Frederick, Director of the ARC said, “We do tend to get an influx of students at the beginning of each semester. We see an influx of walk-ins at midterms and finals too. We tend to get more students in fall than spring, but substantially fewer in summer.” It seems as if only 10-12 percent of the LIU Brooklyn’s student body takes advantage of the
ARC whether through online and oneon one tutoring. “We may see 400-600 students per week on average--most are repeats with weekly appointments, but we also offer walk-in hours Mon-Fri for our highest demand subject areas,” Frederick continued. Since finals will be here soon, there is some wisdom to take heed to. Sillah advises that students “avoid last minute cramming, review your homework assignments and in class notes, and try attending office hours.” According to the ARC, choose a field of study that really captures your interest. Second, observe how and when you learn best for different for different subjects, types of courses and at different times in your academic career. Third, discussing course content with fellow students is helpful; those who do discuss perform academically better than those who do not. It is recommended students form or join a study group, so they can speak with others in your class. Also it’s a great way to find out how other students studying techniques.
GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE
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hat is Gastroesophageal Reflux disease?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition in which the stomach contents (food or liquid) leak backwards from the stomach into the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). This action can irritate the esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms. Causes of Gastroesophageal reflux: When you eat, food passes from the throat to the stomach through the esophagus (also called the food pipe or swallowing tube). Once food is in the stomach, a ring of muscle fibers prevents food from moving backward into the esophagus. These muscle fibers are called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES. If this sphincter muscle doesn’t close well, food, liquid and stomach acid can leak back into the esophagus. This is called gastroesophageal reflux.
Photo: doctorrennie.files.wordpress.com
BY: RALPHNIE EDMOND
Risk factors for reflux include: - Alcohol - Obesity - Pregnancy - Scleroderma - Smoking More common symptoms are: - Feeling that food is stuck behind the breastbone - Heartburn or a burning pain in the chest increased by bending, stooping, lying down, or eating - Less common symptoms are: - Bringing food back up - Cough or wheezing - Difficulty swallowing - Sore throat Signs and tests: - You may not need any tests if your symptoms are not severe. - If your symptoms are severe or they come back after you have been treated,
one or more tests may help diagnose Reflux or any complications: - Esophagogastrodudenoscopy (interior examination of the gastrointestinal tract up to the duodenum) - Barium swallow Continuous esophageal PH monitoring - Esophageal manometry Treatment: You can make many lifestyle changes to help treat your symptoms. Avoid foods that cause problems for you. Making changes to your routine before you go to sleep may also help. Avoid drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Take acetaminophen to relieve pain. Take your medicines with plenty of water. When your doctor gives you a new medicine, remember to ask whether it will make your heartburn worse.
YOUR CAREER!
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Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
JUMPSTART
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The Office of Career Services Congratulates its 2012– 2013 COOP/ Internship Award Recipients The following students are being honored for their career-related achievements during the 2012 – 2013 school year: Student of the Year Award Michelle Lawton Media Arts and Journalism Major, Senior Jim Moody Award Dannley Idopcil Management and Finance Major, Senior & Stephanie Persaud, Business Marketing & Management major, Senior
Student Service Award Alanna Dawkins Biology Major, Sophomore
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Looking for a Summer Job or Internship? Meet with a Career Counselor in Pratt 510 Drop in during walk-in hours or call (718) 488 – 1042 to schedule an appointment
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SS InternShip
Introducing: Travontae Williams Major: Media Arts Year: Freshman Internship: SiriusXM “As an intern at SiriusXM, I manage guest CD requests and help determine which new artists will be featured on the show, research show topics and propose ideas to the producer of Dr. Radio. In addition, I listen to audio clips to select branding and marketing materials. I’ve learned to remain professional while meeting celebrities for the first time! You can never do too much networking. Working with people in my industry has been most beneficial.
As a transfer student I was nervous about transitioning to my new internship, but Career Services has been my best friend while helping me earn academic credit for my internship. “
“Like” us on Facebook and join us on LinkedIn Search LIU Brooklyn Career Services
Professional Success.
Degree Programs include: • Doctor of Chiropractic • Master of Science in Acupuncture • Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine • Master of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition (online delivery) • Master of Science in Human Anatomy & Physiology Instruction (online delivery) For more information call NYCC at 1-800-234-6922 or visit www.nycc.edu.
Finger Lakes School of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine of New York Chiropractic College School of Applied Clinical Nutrition
2360 Route 89 • Seneca Falls, NY 13148
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Academic Excellence.
Dedicated to: • Academic Excellence • Quality Patient Care • Professional Leadership
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CBS TWITTER ACCOUNTS HACKED
BY: KAREN MILLER
to appear in court May 16.
A Louisiana judge has issued an arrest warrant for rapper Lil’ Flip. According to TMZ, the rapper did not show up to a schedule court hearing. Lil’ Flip was arrested in December 2012 after police in Mansfield pulled him over for speeding and discovered he had Bushmaster AR-15 assault rifle. CBS’ logo Photo Credit:www.wusa9.com
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.V news anchor A.J Clemente from Bismarck, North Dakota was recently fired after he cursed on live air. According to a statement by KFYR-TV, Clemente was practicing his lines and did not realize his microphone was on. The former anchor wrote on his Twitter page that he is free agent and was fired from his news gig job.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Rap artist Lil’ Scrappy has a warrant for his arrest in Atlanta, the rapper was required to give a urine test after he was arrested in 2008 for smoking marijuana. According to TMZ, Lil’ Scrappy gave the authorities urine sample that was not his and he refused to give a sample in their presence. Scrappy is expected
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Billboard has announced that Rihanna is the first artist in the 20th year history of Billboard’s Nielsen BDS-based have ten number one hit singes. The Bajan singer broke her tie with singer Katy Perry. According to hiphop365.com, Matthew Thompson filed a lawsuit on April 17 against former NBA MVP Derrick Rose. Thompson, a fan of the Chicago Bulls basketball team is accusing Rose of his mental breakdowns and emotional distress. Rose has been in rehab and missed games due to an ACL injury that happened during the 2011-2012 playoffs. Stay tune for emerging details. The Twitter accounts for two CBS news programs in the United States have been suspended after being hacked. The fake messages were accusing President Barack Obama for trying to take away
the guns of the American people and how the government was hiding the real culprit of the Boston bombing. A group called Syrian Electronic Army allegedly is the ones responsible for the fake messages. Actress Reese Witherspoon is set to appear in court on April 29 following her arrest on a disorderly conduct. The Atlanta Municipal Court said the Oscarwinning actress was upset over the arrest of her husband Jim Toth, who was accused of driving under the influence of alcohol. Witherspoon allegedly told police officers, “do you know who I am and you’re about to find out who I am.” A new lawsuit has been filed against former NBA player Kareem AbdulJabbar’s Skyhook Foundation charity. According to the lawsuit, the charity is stealing money from people and the donations are given to the foundation’s board members. A company named Julien’s Auctions linked a deal with Skyhook Foundation to sell Kareem’s championship rings and jerseys. Julien is alleging that the foundation had no intent on using the donations for the charity.
CASSIE IS BACK WITH ROCKABYEBABY
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fter seven long years, Bad Boy recording artist Cassie returns with new music off her mixtape RockaByeBaby. The mixtape features appearances from Meek Mill, Wiz Khalifa, Pusha T, Fabolous, French Montana, Too $hort, Jeremih, and Ester Dean.
Singer Cassie Photo Credit: www.vibrantdoll.com
RockaByeBaby was just a giant, uninspired lullaby. Even with production by in demand music industry heavy hitters such as Da Internz and Mike Will Made it, who is responsible for Juicy J’s “Bands Will Make her Dance,” and Future’s “Turn on the Lights” singles; Cassie’s mixtape is just average. The most exciting parts of the singer’s project were the samples of the groundbreaking 1991 urban gangster movie New Jack City. The whole mixtape was supposed to be a reference to Keisha, the gun toting, tough girl, who coined the
1) Started From The Bottom Drake 2) Love Me Lil’ Wayne 3) Suit & Tie Justin Timberlake 4) U.O.E.N.O Rocko 5) Fine China Chris Brown 6) Pour It Up Rihanna 7) Bugattti Ace Hood 8) She Don’t Put It Down Joe Budden 9) Neva End Future 10) Bad Wale
BY: SHANNON THOMAS
phrase, RockaByeBaby and served as a bodyguard to drug lord Nino Brown. But unlike the character Keisha from the movie, New Jack City, Cassie based her project on the songs that are simple and safe. There was nothing daring, or bold about the songs’ content or arrangement. The lyrics although cocky, and sexually charged, are reminiscent of rejected Rihanna records. In the song, “Bad B---s” featuring Esther Dean. Cassie sings over synths and heavy bass, “cause the bad b---- get it, make a n---- spend it, that’s the only way he hit it, this ain’t love, this is business. I ain’t try to be your Mrs, I ain’t looking for no love.” The song is just another flat anthem to boost girls’ ego before they hit the club on a Saturday night. Her lyrics just miss the mark of going down in the category of being memorable and Instagram photo caption worthy.
There is not one song that grabs the attention and entices listeners to wear out their repeat buttons. Although Cassie was never really known for her singing abilities, one would think during the seven years she has been away from making music, she would take a few voice lessons in order to be able to add some more depth to her limited vocal range. In the song, “Sound of Love,” featuring Jeremih, the official singer is outshined in her own song. The artists Cassie chosen to appear on her mixtape, each gave a bit of their own personalities, but not enough to spark a solid hit. RockaByeBaby is an admirable effort by Cassie to maintain some relevance in the music industry. The mixtape is free and available to download on www. datpiff.com.
BEHIND THE SCENES WITH THE BEBE MILLER COMPANY
BY: ONISSA SANCHO
Angie and Darrel performing a skit underwater Photo Credit: www.facebook.com
n the left side of the Kumble Theater stage, a large screen slowly descends and lands about a foot from the ground. On the screen, there’s a man with a woman. And a short distance behind the screen is a rectangular table.
BMC. “I was really [struck] in particular by the performances of her company and particularly Bebe,” he said. And Hauser decided to join BMC twenty years ago after seeing Miller perform in Georgia. “It was very compelling and important to me,” said Hauser. It got in my guts, in a way that I definitely wanted to know more about it.” Dancers Hauser and Jones, made the choreography of “A History” seem so natural. “I don’t think there is one recipe for it,” said Hauser about her work ethic. “I have to be present in that moment, in that room, with those people at that time.”
used in service of different ideas,” said Jones. “It’s a lofty idea, but it’s a simple idea. So I feel like the piece is very revealing for me in that way about how I can reveal my relationships.
Jones uses rehearsal time not only to perfect the choreography, but to also become mentally prepared. “For me it’s about clearing things out. I feel like in our rehearsal process, we’re practicing those things, sometimes over and over again, sometimes buried in the moment,” said Jones. “When performance time comes around I’m relying on that training that I’ve done in those rehearsal settings, like a muscle memory. I usually try to calm my mind, so there are not a lot of filters in the way for those things to reveal themselves,” said Jones.
“The beginning is always daunting. Once you’re in it, there’s highs and lows energetically,” said Jones. “Usually after you’re finished, the energy is still tingling a little bit.”
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Entering from the right side of the stage and moving with skilled discipline is a man who places himself in a horizontal position under the table, which is located behind the screen. The word “Angie-ness” is displayed on the screen as the woman, whose first name is Angie, suddenly enters the stage. She moves fluidly and quickly alongside a male dancer, Darrel. The screen shows the two dancing on stage at the same time. Their individuality is clear yet they’re also in sync. The Bebe Miller Company and 651 Arts presents the show titled A History, which was an hour and fifteen minutes of unique, lively, and humorous fun. Bebe Miller’s Company (BMC) and 651Arts reunite to stage the performance of A History at the Kumble Theater. The organization 651Arts, aims to seek awareness and showcase artistic works from individuals of African descent, while focusing on the African Diaspora and contemporary art. Under 651Arts, works are presented throughout the New York City area with Brooklyn as the main focus. “Our first connection with 651 was back
in 2001,” said Miller. “They presented and commissioned our work [Verge].” Dancers Angie Hauser and Darrel Jones of Bebe Miller’s Dance Company were the performers for the shows Verge and A History. As a proud Brooklynite, Miller is honored to work with 651Arts again. “I appreciate that and I’m glad 651 is a part of that,” said Miller in speaking about showcasing A History in Brooklyn. “The show was kind of first more of an idea, than a performance piece,” Miller said. Collaborating with dancers on “A History” with Hauser and Jones – along with Talvin Wilkes – the idea was to convey the perspective and experience of the creator and dancers of Bebe Miller’s Company. “We on the inside really live in that connected tissue, from piece to piece,” said Miller. “Would there be a way to somehow make all of that visible – whether it be a website, that becomes an archive of the creative process, or some other means?” For her, the answer was found on stage. Hauser, Jones and Miller each live and teach in different states, but they always find a way to come together to produce great works. Hauser and Jones were originally fans of Miller. Later they became students at Bebe Miller’s Dance Company [BMC] – and now, of course, they’re members. Jones saw the company perform about eighteen years ago, which led him to join
For Jones, the piece A History means spending time with a group of people and the physical language. And it’s an experience that can be shared. “I think it’s a vocabulary sometimes that we’ve
Hauser adds, “What I often like when I see performances is seeing the people do what they do, and to get a chance to see them living and knowing that we’re watching them.” The talented dancer also believes that people who witness the show can personally connect to it. “I’m excited to be a part of a piece like this because I enjoy it from the outside,” said Hauser. “I feel really happy that we really made it together.”
After pushing herself to the limit on stage, Hauser finds relief from the audience. “When I get tired I think, just invite them in, and invite them to share this,” she said. [By saying] ‘Come on, come with me’ helps me to just survive it.” For more information on upcoming events from Bebe Miller Company please visit www.bebemillercompany. org and for more on 651 Arts, please visit www.651arts.org.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Darrel jones and Angie Hauser dancers of Bebe Miller Company(left to right) Photo Credit: www.northrop.umn.edu
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WOMEN’S LACROSSE ENDS SEASON WITHOUT A WIN
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he women’s Lacrosse team of LIUBrooklyn has finally completed its heart wrenching season. A season that would offer the Blackbirds zero victories and 16 defeats. The first of the last of LIU’s losses took place on its home field where Bryant downed Long Island 3-16. The Bulldogs went up early on the Blackbirds and took immediate control of the first period. Bryant scored 10 straight goals, eight of which were within minutes of each other and each one placing Long Island deeper and deeper into a hole.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
With 4:33 left in the first junior Shakoya Smith scored an unassisted goal to finally put the Blackbirds on the board, within a minute her teammate Jesenia Cantres added to LIU’s score with a goal assisted by sophomore Colleen Holmes. The Half ended with the Blackbirds down eight goals, 10-2.
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was there to stop the Blackbirds dead in its tracks this time putting up seven goals to end the half 5-12. The Blue Devils opened the second just as strongly as they closed the first, slamming the Blackbirds with a 12 goal deficit. Junior Trisha Yeoell interrupted CCSU’s scoring with an unassisted goal, followed by two more goals from Kovar. Long Islands final attempt at a comeback came just a little too late as Central Connecticut State would score the final goal of the period to take the win. The final loss of the season was to Wagner College, who destroyed the Blackbirds with an 18 point lead. The Seahawks completely dominated the opening half putting up 14 goals without allowing the Long Island to even get on the board. At 0-14 to end the half, the pace of the game was set and saw little
The second half saw less scoring for Bryant; who opened with a man-up goal, but the Blackbirds just could not keep up. Freshman Allison Canfield assisted junior Kimberly Kovar in LIU’s final goal of the contest but one goal did not stop the Bulldogs from running away with the win after five more consecutive goals. Junior goalie Gina Haber saw five saves throughout the entire game. Long Islands’ next loss was to Central Connecticut State who downed the Blackbirds 8-18 in another home field defeat. The visitors went up early on the home team but LIU responded immediately with a goal of its own, scored by Cantres. CCSU’s Mackenzy Ryan put up the second goal for her team in what looked to have the makings of a back-to-back scoring contest. Unfortunately things did not pan out that way, and the Blue Devils went on to score three more goals to take the lead 1-5. The Blackbirds abruptly stopped the Blue devils progress by quickly adding four straight goals of its own. Canfield, Holmes and Kovar seemed to effortlessly tie the game at 5-5 with unassisted goals; two from Kovar, but, yet again CCSU
Womans Lacrosse team huddles up. Phot Credit: LIUAthletics.com
BY: SHANEL GILBERT
hope for LIU. The Blackbirds finally scored an unassisted goal at the head of the second but it was no use as Wagner hit four more goals to stretch its lead 1-19. Senior Caitlin Farrell hit her second unassisted goal of the contest with seven minutes left, but it was in vain. The Seahawks closed the half by scoring the final goal and defeated LIU 20-2; sadly this was not the largest deficit that Long Island has fallen to this season. The 2013 Lacrosse season is over, for now all the Blackbird can do is regroup and hope the returning players can make a difference next year. Long Island is ranked 96 in the NCAA division I lacrosse rankings but still has the worst record in the Northeast Conference at 0-9 and 0-16 overall.
Caitlin Farrell, LIU Athletics.com
WOMEN’S GOLF DEFEATS COLUMBIA
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ong Island’s women’s golf team narrowly defeated its Ivy League opponent at the Knickerbocker Country Club in Tenafly, NJ. With Columbia just two strokes behind, the Blackbirds took the competition with an overall team score of 320, led by sophomore Cristina Felip with a round of 77. Following Felip, freshman Marisol Doglioli finished with a total stroke of 78, just one stroke behind her teammate who tied for the top individual spot. Sophomores Brianna Maynard and Alice Boothroyd both carded rounds of 82 and freshman Victoria Fegan finished the day at 95. The gives LIU a much needed boost of confidence before heading into the Northeast Conference Championship, just around the corner. At the Roar-EE Invitational; days before downing Columbia, Long Island took fifth place, with a team total of 342. Maynard led the Blackbirds carding rounds of 39 and 44. Maynard tied for eighth place in the individuals with a total stroke of 83.
while Boothroyd finished at 44 and 42. Doglioli also competed for the Blackbirds and tied for 23 with a total stroke of 87, just one stoke higher than her teammates in 16. Long Island’s last representative; Fagan, finished in the 45 spot after carding rounds of 43 and 50 to finish with an overall total of 93. The Blackbirds tied in fifth out of 10 teams at the invitational. Boston University won the event with the best team score, while four players tied for first in the individuals with a total stoke of 79. Long Island then travelled to Barrington, R.I. where they participated in the Brown Invitational. LIU placed seventh with a team stroke of 641. Felip led her team with a total of 156, sadly it was only good enough to tie for 14. With rounds of 78 and 79, Maynard was the second best participant for LIU and she tied for 20. At the event, Boothroyd carded rounds of 81 and 85 to tie for 40, while Fagan placed 76 with a finishing total of 181. The Blackbirds see its next action at the Northeast Conference Tournament, beginning April 26. Sophomore Cristina Felipe Photo Credit: LIUAthletics.com
MEN’S GOLF COMPLETES FINAL EVENTS
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IU-Brooklyn men’s golf team, Participated at the Navy spring Invitational, where it placed fifth out of 21 with a team total of 603. Sophomore Obe Ayton placed fourth in the individuals after carding 73 in both rounds. Senior Josh Waters took the next top spot for LIU, tying for seventh with a total stroke of 148. With rounds of 75 and 76, freshman Stewart Gray tied for 14 while sophomore Rhys Jones tied for 57 with a 158 total. Junior Lloyd Madison tied for 96 after carding rounds of 82 and 87. Virginia tied with Pennsylvania for the top team spot with a total of 599, while Joe Gunerman of Towson won in the individuals.
BY: SHANEL GILBERT
Earlier at the Manor Intercollegiate, the Blackbirds placed sixth out of 10 teams with a team score of 912 over three rounds. Waters led LIU with rounds of 72, 75 and 71 and finished third in the individuals. Ayton tied for 16 after carding three straight rounds of 75. With a total of 234, senior Jamie Young took the 38 individual spot while Jones tied at 42 with rounds of 81, 78, and 76. Gray was the last contributor for LIU and he place 53 with a total stroke of 239. The Blackbirds wont return to the field until May 2-5, giving men’s golf plenty of time to practice for the Northeast Conference Championship.
Josh Waters Photo Credit: LIUAthletics.com
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Next for LIU, Felip and Boothroyd tied with seven others in the 16 individual spot. Felip carded rounds of 41 and 45
BY: SHANEL GILBERT
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WOMEN’S TENNIS ENDS AT THE NEC
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BY: SHANEL GILBERT
IU-Brooklyn’s women’s tennis team shutout St. Francis (Pa.) 4-0 in the Northeast Conference (NEC) Quarterfinals match. In the doubles, Long Island recorded backto-back wins. In the No.2 spot, senior Aleksandra Pavlovic and sophomore Katya Yegoreychenko took an 8-2 win to beat Shivani Patel and Lucy Jasso. Senior Taysha Blessington and sophomore Sanne Louwers won 8-4 in the No. 1 spot while junior Lisa Maas and sophomore Nancy Zonneveld were up 7-3, before their match was suspended.
The Blackbirds took three matches in the singles with Louwers defeating Rafaela Panizza 6-2 and 6-1 in the No. 1 spot. Pavlovic beat 6-2, 6-2 win over Danielle Gryckiewicz in the No.5 and Blessington also downed her opponent 6-3 and 6-0 in the No. 2 spot to make it 3-0.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Yegoreychenko, Maas and Zonneveld did not finish their matches.
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Unfortunately, the Blackbirds fell in the Semifinals 2-4 against Quinnipiac. Lauwers and Blessington put LIU up in the singles with an 8-5 win over Rachel Cantor and Sarah Viebrock in the No. 1 spot. Despit going up early, the Bobcats took the next two singles matches as Pavlovic and Yegoreychenko dropped 8-4 and Zonneveld and Maas fell 9-7. In the singles, Lauwers (6-3, 6-2) and Zonneveld (6-0, 6-3) picked up wins in the No. 1 and No. 6 spots but could not stop QU from taking three straight matches to clench the win. In the No. 2 spot Blessington’s opponent was able to come away with a 6-3, 6-4 win, while Maas was defeated by Michelle Dassa 6-3, 6-2 in the No. 4 spot. In spot No. 3, Yegoreychenko dropped her match 6-1, 6-3 to Viebrock. Pavlovic did not get to finish her match against Mary Chupa in spot No. 5. Just before heading into the NEC, the Blackbirds shutout St. Francis Brooklyn 4-0 before it fell to Fordam; its final opponent 2-5. Against SFNY, the Blackbirds took four of the six singles events ending all chance of a Terrier victory. The Blackbirds first
Women’s tennis team gathers together on the court. Photo Credit: LIUAthletics.com
point was taken by a default win in the No. 6 spot. Its next point was captured as Lauwers took down her opponent 6-0 and 6-1 in the No. 1 spot. Blessington defeated Natasha Edwards 6-0 and 6-0 in the No. 2 spot. Long Island earned its fourth and final point when Yegoreychenko saw a victory over Akuila Edwards. 6-0 and 6-0, Yegoreychenko clenched the win for the Blackbirds and as a result Junior Lisa Maas and Pavlovic did not finish their matches although both were up 3-0. Just days after its final Northeast Conference win, the Blackbirds lost to Fordam who took all three of the doubles matches. In the No. 3 spot Maas and
sophomore Brittany Thompson were downed by Angelika Dabu and Julie Leong 8-4. Pavlovic and Yegoreychenko dropped in the No. 2 spot 8-6 while teammates Blessington and Lauwers were defeated with the same score in the No. 1 spot. The singles event saw no change in pace for LIU who fell back-to-back in the No. 6 and 3 spots before finally managing to record a single point when Pavlovic defeated Leong in the No. 5 spot 6-3 and 6-3. Maas helped Long Island gain its second point as she took down Bella Genkina 6-4 and 6-4 to round out the Blackbirds final score. Fordam took four wins in the doubles as Amy Simidian defeated Louwers 7-5,
6-4, 6-4, Sarah Ali defeated Blessington 6-3, 6-4, Dabu defeated Yegoreychenko 6-2, 6-3 and Anika Novacek defeated Thompson 5-0 before retiring in the second round. Despite losing its final match of the season, LIU maintains an impressive overall record of 10-4 and 4-1 in the Northeast.
GETTING TO KNOW SENIOR TAYSHA BLESSINGTON
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ustralia native; Taysha Blessington is a senior Sports Management major at LIUBrooklyn. She is proof that beauty, brains and athleticism can all be part of the same package. From 2004-08, Blessington broke records; as part of duo, with the most consecutive wins of the Tildesley Doubles Championship. The young athlete was also named Independent Girls’ School Sports Association Honour Recipient from 2003-07 and awarded the Pamela Jones Award for continued academics and sport throughout her school career. Blessington’s accomplishments are extraordinary and inspiring for anyone, whether they pursue academics and sports.
The senior confessed that she is a very emotional player, gets pumped and enjoys cheering on her teammates with the aim to excite. She prepares early on to get ready for matches by staying level minded. With her experience she has learned not to let outside problems get in the way of playing a match, but as freshman Blessington did not think this way. Asi Phillips; head coach of the women’s tennis team, always told Blessington “whatever goes on outside the court will be there after the match. So, while you’re in the match stay in the moment.” Words the young athlete has taken to heart. As proof she helped the women’s tennis team, to the second round of the Northeast Conference Tennis
Championship. Although Blessington has had an impressive tennis career and many would love to see her play professionally, she believes that there is a time frame for going pro and that tennis players get younger every day. Despite her love for the sport, Blessington is in a different place and will take a different path in life. While she will definitely play tennis for fun and travel with it. Blessington also states that tennis will not be her job but will always remain her passion.
“It’s been a privilege to be part of the LIU Blackbirds and to be a player for Asi Phillips. I didn’t have much expectations but it has exceeded anything that I ever imagined it could be. I’m very fortunate to work with a great team and coach. It helped me grow as a person and I wouldn’t change it”.
After college, this young woman plans to own her own multi-purpose facility for sports geared toward the young and elderly. Where she would like to host soccer, basketball, tennis as well as other sporting events. In the near future, Blessington plans on attending the University of West Florida as a graduate
With a promised scholarship Blessington came straight from her high school to LIU. Of course, not before doing much research and speaking with members of the tennis team. Upon her arrival, she did not face a culture shock, as most people might assume because the experiences she had in her home town helped her become very “adaptable to change”. “Sydney is very diverse,” said Blessinton, “I always met new people and I’m used to traveling on my own.” As the years have passed, Blessington has matured as an individual and an athlete “Your willpower overrides talent when you get to this level,” Blessington said “you might not have the best technique but because of your will to compete you can endure and go great lengths.” She also believes that the atmosphere will not always be like home matches and recalls tennis in high school “there were huge crowds and there were so many
assistant, while earning her Masters in Business Administration
Blessington seeks to motivate her teammates with high fives. Photo Credit: LIUAthletics
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
Blessington is the middle child of two older sisters and two younger brothers. Her family was very involved with sports and her parents played tennis recreationally. As a child, she also played tennis which was popular in her school but Blessington got into the sport competitively and sought outside programs to participate in. She tried other sports like: rowing, basketball and field hockey but tennis was the only one she was willing to dedicate herself to outside of school.
people, but I didn’t focus on anything but the game.”
BY: JAHID MOWLA
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SOFTBALL SEE’S A CHANGE IN PACE
BY: JUSTIN ELLIS
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aybe LIU Brooklyn’s Women’s Softball team should play double headers more often, as they appear to be riding a high by adding seven wins to their overall record. Bryant was LIU’s first opponent in a tide of double headers, the first game went smoothly for the Blackbirds who saw a 12-4 win that included three homeruns to help the cause. Junior Madison Zymkowitz, sophomore Nicole Archer and freshman Celinna Cosio provided the power hitting.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
The Blackbirds seemed to head into trouble as junior Cassie Vondrak; Long Island pitcher, surrendered four runs in the first, but it wasn’t long before the team received a healthy dose of run support and the pitching settled down.
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The second game of the series was a lot closer, but it didn’t begin that way. While the Blackbirds would squeak by with an 8-7 win – it happened after mounting a huge comeback. In 5 ½ innings, LIU was down 6-0, but in the bottom of the fifth, Archer hit a three-run homer. Going into the seventh inning and trailing Bryant 7-4, LIU manufactured runs to win this game through a hit-by-pitch, a passed ball, a fielding error and finally a game-winning single from sophomore Madison Green. The next series would be against Wagner, but a different team didn’t change the outcome. It only led to more LIU success. Things didn’t start well in the first inning after Wagner’s Abigail Beasley hit a grand slam, which gave Wagner a 4-0 lead. LIU immediately began to fight back by scoring runs in four consecutive innings and making it a tied game at five. In the bottom of the ninth, Nichole Toven singled in as LIU pulled off a dramatic 6-5 win. In the doubleheader’s finale, LIU finished things up with a 5-1 victory. Vondrak, who was once again the starting pitcher, threw a complete game while only giving up four hits. The Blackbirds’ offense was led by two RBIs each scored by Green and Cosio. Wagner really didn’t put up much of a fight only scoring one fourth inning run.
Sophomore Nicole Archer at bat Photo Credit: LIUAthletics.com
In another doubleheader, LIU competed against Robert Morris. Nicole Sleith dominated for the Pioneers throwing a complete game to shutout the Blackbirds 1-0 with 11 strike outs. Vondrak started for LIU throwing 7 2/3 innings but allowed the winning run to be scored in the bottom of the eighth. Later in the day the Blackbirds would recover taking 7-3 win in game two; earned in two monster innings. After LIU scored its first run in the fourth, using a RMU error, freshmen Ariana Lopez hit a three run homer. Then in the sixth Toven hit a two run single followed by another run scoring single by Zymkowitz. The Blackbirds final doubleheader was played against Saint Francis and LIU
dominated; at least for game one game. The offense and pitching came out strong this time winning by a 10-0 shutout. LIU made and early statement with two second inning homeruns by Archer and Cosio. The onslaught continued as the Blackbirds scored another two runs in that inning, then a sixth run in the fifth. Vondrak started for LIU allowing three hits but struck out five players in her complete game effort. Game two would require a little bit more effort as it quickly became a back and forth affair. Going into the fourth inning St. Francis held a 1-0 lead until Archer singled scoring a run. This would only be the beginning as in the fifth LIU scored another four runs. St. Francis would respond in the sixth and seventh by scoring a combined four
runs to tie the game. At the top of the ninth inning Long Island would take the lead for good as Green flied out to center scoring a run. Vondrak pitched through it all earning her team another win while pushing her personal record to 11-18. The Blackbirds next game will be against Hofstra on April 25 at 5PM.
BASEBALL GOES ON FOUR GAME WIN STREAK
BY: JUSTIN ELLIS
L
IU Brooklyn’s baseball team elevated it game in back-to-back doubleheaders. The Blackbirds new found pace began with two double headers against Fairleigh Dickenson. LIU swept the first doubleheader, led in offense by juniors Kyle Demarco and John Ziznewski. Game one produced a 9-3 win for the suddenly surging team and was settled in the third inning after the Blackbirds knocked in five runs in support of junior Justin Topa. Five runs would be all Topa needed as he pitched a complete game allowing just three runs while striking out four. It was an excellent start to the day, but it was only the beginning. In part two of the doubleheader, LIU won 4-2. In such a low-scoring game, sophomore Jordan Wilcox proved dominant on the mound as the Blackbirds’ starting pitcher. While Fairleigh Dickinson managed to score two runs in the third inning, Wilcox quickly settled down. Senior Tito Marrero came on as a pinch hitter and received an RBI through a bases loaded hit-by-pitch and later, a seventh inning double.
In the final game of the series, LIU scored an ugly 11-9 win. The Blackbirds almost tried to lose the game by committing six errors, four by Demarco, which helped Fairliegh Dickinson score six unearned runs. Ziznewski and junior Kevin Needham each had three RBIs, but it was in the decisive eighth inning when Ziznewski hit a two-run home run giving LIU a lead that they wouldn’t surrender. After these doubleheaders LIU would
Senior Mike Garcia contributes to win over Mount St. Mary’s with a homerun Photo Credit: LIUAthletics.com
face Rider in just one game. They probably wished it would have been a series after losing 9-4. The game was close until the sixth inning, where Rider scored three runs then another three in the eighth putting the game out of reach. The Blackbird’s quartet of pitchers just couldn’t keep it together allowing nine runs, eight earned. The Blackbirds also played a four game set with Mount St. Mary ending with a sweep in LIU’s favor. Long Island won the first game 10-3 capitalizing off of three strong innings. The Blackbirds scored two runs in the first inning, four in the fourth and two more in the fifth. Each hit was clutch, allowing the Blackbirds to easily pull away. The second game was a lot closer but
saw the same result 2-1. LIU was quiet up until the sixth inning where the team was down 1-0. Senior Mike Garcia hit a sacrifice fly scoring a run to put the Blackbirds on the board. In the seventh inning Long Island would take the lead 2-1 as freshman Evan Emerich reached on an error scoring a run. Wilcox pitched the whole game giving up nine hits but struck out seven players. In the third game of the series, LIU once again put up runs in bunches winning 8-3. With the game tied 2-2 in the bottom of the fourth, Garcia hit a homerun scoring two runs that gave the Blackbirds a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Just to insert the dagger even deeper, in the sixth inning junior Pete Leonello hit a three run double. Needham pitched six inning to then be
relieved by Zerff who finished off the game. The final game of the series went Long Islands way as well, ending with a 7-6 victory. LIU held a 2-1 lead but MSM’s Mark Quaranta gave his team the advantage with a run scored later in the inning. LIU was losing late in the game but Garcia hit a two run single giving the Blackbirds a 6-5 lead. Ziznewski would walk in a run in the eighth inning helping to put his team up 7-5. Mount St. Mary’s scored one more run in the ninth but it wasn’t enough as LIU held on to secure the win. LIU will face Hofstra next in Hempstead New York on April 24 at 3:30 PM.
Seawanhaka Press | www.SeawanhakaPress.com | APRIL 26, 2013
With a three-game winning streak in hand, LIU hoped to push the streak to four, but FDU won that contest 4-3 with all its scoring in the fourth and fifth innings. The Blackbirds starter sophomore Chance Fuglistahler, just couldn’t keep LIU in the game through his four innings of work and was relieved by senior Evan Zerff. LIU got seven hits in the game, but just couldn’t score enough of them to make a difference.
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TENNIS WRAPS UP
ITS IMPRESSIVE SEASON