Student workers honored pg. 7
RELAY FOR LIFE
St. John’s starts Spring Week pg. 3
Find out what happened this week in showbiz pg. 11
Men’s tennis coach doubles for the women’s team pg. 14
Relay participants console one another on the emotional day.
NA PALERMO
ALL PHOTOS/GI
BRIDGET HIGGINS Staff Writer St. John ’s 10th annual Relay For Life event, held in Carnesecca Arena last weekend, proved to be a record breaking event. The St. John’s community gathered to celebrate, honor and fight for those affected by cancer. Mary Pelkowski, associate dean for student engagement, said, “This Relay For Life was extremely historic. It was our 10th Annual Fundraising Celebration and we broke all three records. We had the most teams, most participants and raised the most money in SJU history.” The Disney-themed event brought in nearly 126 teams and 1,700 student participants, in addition to administration, faculty and volunteers. The event, which spanned from 6 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday, raised over $114,000. Relay For Life began with a touching opening ceremony, the annual Luminaria ceremony and the survivors lap.
“I’m looking forward to the whole event because it’s just so magical, especially the OpenThree students hold up ing Ceremony because it’s a their luminarias in support time for people to reflect,” of cancer research. Relay For Life chair, sophomore Catherine Sheehan said. The Luminaria ceremony seemed A Relay to be an emotional time for many at the event. On a paper bag, partici- committee member pants wrote a person’s name or a small hugs a cancer survivor. message about why they Relay. During Luminaria, everyone held his or her bag with a lit glow stick inside. First, event staff instructed current cancer patients to hold up their bags, then survivors and caregivers. Lastly, those fighting for a cure held up their bags. Afterward, participants set their Luminaria bags down along the border of the track. Sophomore Richard Cantoral was looking forward to the Luminaria ceremony most of all. “It’s very powerful,” Cantoral said. After Luminaria, participants and volunteers alike sat to watch a slideshow of those who have died because
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HAPPY ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY STOVE (SPORTS EDITOR)! IT WAS LOVE AT FIRST TORCH. You’re my prints (heehee get it?!?!?!?) LOVE GINA (DESIGN EDITOR)
Crikey, mate! A joey was part of the Earth Fest petting zoo. Photo/Torch Photo Editor Diana Colapietro
News
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St. John’s 10th annual Relay For Life breaks record Walk-a-thon honors loved ones, gathers students and brings in $114,223
continued from page 1
As the faces popped up on the screen, emotions ran deep among the crowd. People cried, hugged and remembered. “I got sad from that video,” freshman Austin Rojas said. “My grandmother just got lung cancer, and she already had colon cancer…nothing can kill that woman though, trust me.” Cancer is a widespread disease. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2015, about 589,430 Americans are expected to die of cancer, or about 1,620 people per day. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the U.S., exceeded only by heart disease, and accounts for nearly one of every four deaths. This explained why so many people were moved by the slideshow. “Cancer affects everybody, whether you’re the person with the disease, a family member or a friend,” Pauline Tummino, director of health services, said. “I would think everyone on this campus is affected.” Pelkowski has participated in Relay For Life for the past four years. Like many participants, she has been affected by cancer. “I relay for my mom who I lost from lung cancer,” Pelkowski said. “I relay so that one day there will be a cure and we will celebrate more birthdays.”
torch photo/bridget higgins
Phi Sigma Sigma member Melissa Nepomuceno hugs her sorority sister Lauren Baiata after the Luminara ceremony video.
Freshman Rosalie Messina, chair of the survivorship committee at Relay, was also affected by cancer. Her mother survived breast cancer. Meanwhile, sophomore Survivorship Committee Co-Chair Tatiana Smith’s mom has cervical cancer. “We relay for our moms,” Messina said of the pair. Among the students, St. John’s Greek
life had a huge turnout at Relay For Life. The three top fundraising teams were Greek organizations. Lambda Kappa Sigma, Phi Delta Chi and Alpha Sigma Alpha came in first, second and third, respectively. Lambda Kappa Sigma raised about $17,500 for Relay. The sorority’s fundraising chair, Emily Levine (a third-
year Pharmacy student) said, “I think a lot of dedication from all of the sisters helped…[The issue of] cancer is something near and dear to our hearts.” “This is why we join organizations… to be a part of something bigger than yourself,” Tau Kappa Epsilon treasurer, junior Matt Potenza said. Throughout the night, the event staff served pizza, heroes, Popeye’s and bagels. Dance and singing performances, comedy shows and a Disney pageant were among the entertainment that spanned the night. Freshman Veronica Ruiz said, “We have a lot of stuff planned. I think a lot of people are going to enjoy it.” Ruiz is the co-chair of the Advocacy Committee, which pushes for lifestyle changes to prevent cancer and for legislation for a cure. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2015, almost 171,000 of the estimated 589,430 cancer deaths in the U.S. will be caused by tobacco smoking…up to one-third of the cancer cases that occur in economically developed countries like the U.S. are related to overweight or obesity, physical inactivity and/or poor nutrition. The chair of the committee, Jennifer Ramanand, said, “We want to advocate for lifestyle changes that could help.” As freshman C.J. Martin said of Relay For Life, “It’s a way to have fun while saving lives, there is nothing better than that.”
Annual Spring Week set to unite St. John’s community host their fashion show called, “Dimensions: Art, Fashion, Identify,” in Carnesecca Arena. According to the University website, students will be able to “enjoy a night of high fashion and art,” while also seeing “a variety of designers, vendors, and displays.” Musanovic believes that Spring Week is a calming way to escape from all the chaos of finals. “It’s a great way to relax before finals and to enjoy the weather,” she said.
Caitlin sullivan Staff Writer St. John’s annual Spring Week is here and larger than ever. The week-long, jam-packed celebration highlights the recent wave of spring weather, the end of the school year and St. John’s students. “It’s to show appreciation for students,” president of Student Programming Board (SPB) Merima Musanovic said. Musanovic plays a large role in coordinating the Spring Carnival. The carnival will take place on Friday, April 24 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., and will include bumper cars, a ferris wheel, prizes, food and even a fitness challenge. Freshman Alexis Volonakis looks forward to attending the carnival for her first time. “The whole idea of actual crazy, huge rides and a carnival sounds really awesome,” Volonakis explained. On April 22, Battle of the Voices will be celebrating its third year with four finalists. These finalists will be competing for a $1,000 dollar prize provided by the Resident Students Association (RSA), a photo shoot, a music video shoot and studio time arranged by media and arts company Mindllezz Thoughtz. Battle of the Voices first started three years ago, when then president of RSA wanted a singing competition that could unite the St. John’s student body and promote talent on campus. The current Vice President of RSA Gabe Sanchez agreed with this idea.
“It is one of many annual events that the students all know about and look forward to.”
-Ada Lee-
torch photo editor /diana colapietro
St. John’s students pose while enjoying the 2014 Spring Carnival.
“Showcasing people’s talent through the competition is a good way of bringing everybody together,” Sanchez said. Freshman Kaila Sanchez plans to attend the event because she enjoys hearing others sing. “I like to hear people sing,” she said. “I think that’s really entertaining.” For this year’s Battle of the Voices, the four finalists will be students Dominique Branch, Indeah Woods, Iniko Dixon and Sarah Giordano. On April 23, St. John’s will be hosting
its very own “Johnny Square,” on Taffner Lawn where students will be able to “experience the tastes, sights and sounds of New York City’s bustling streets right here at St. John’s,” according to the University website. “An event that looks really interesting is Johnny Square,” Volonakis said. “I just like going to these opportunities like this to meet new people; It’s a really good way to branch out and experience everything.” Later on in the day, Fashion Club will
St. John’s senior and Student Government Incorporated, Senior Senator Ada Lee, agrees and lists Spring Week as one of her favorite events at St. John’s. “It is one of many annual events that the students all know about and look forward to,” Lee said in an email interview. “Spring Week unites the student body like no other. All students on campus, regardless of differences, come together solely to enjoy each other’s company and the last big events of the year.”
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University Career Center organizes mock campus emergency
Journalism, toxicology, public relations and homeland security students benefit from the event Cheyanne gonzales General Manager On April 15, St. John’s University’s Career Services, Public Safety, Fire Safety and faculty organized a mock campus emergency event on campus. According to career and internship Advisor William Murphy, who oversaw the planning for this event, the Emergency Situation Career Associated Practical Experience (ESCAPE), was presented to 75 undergraduate students. ESCAPE equipped students with a career-focused, experiential learning opportunity in their areas of study. “ESCAPE is an innovative program bringing together faculty, administration,and public safety in collaboration to engage students in professional and skill development from inside to outside of the classroom,” Denise Hopkins, exec-
student’s major, ESCAPE builds upon lectures and theory to facilitate further learning and career exploration with real world perspective.” Students from the university’s journalism, public relations, toxicology, homeland security departments were to serve as representatives of the University. Career peers from the university played the roles of the victims, suspects, mourning students and eyewitnesses. When presented with a made-up scenario of the campus the students faced with a mock chemical accident at St. Albert Hall, with victims facing injuries, potential homicide, one confirmed fatality and later on an arrest was made. “When we got there, it was one slide of a lecture about covering breaking news then all of the sudden, fake crises started happening and we all just kind of went with it.” Dallas Vargas, senior journalism major, said.
St. John’s journalism majors interview students during the mock emergency.
photo provided/university career services
Public Safety officers consult St. John’s students.
utive director of University Career Services said. “By providing an opportunity for hands-on experience related to each
As the emergency event unfolded, Murphy said that the students encountered carefully choreographed largescale visual scenes, fake social media
Torch
Briefs
Aaron Hernandez: From $40 million to jail time Caitlin sullivan Staff Writer NFL football player for the New England Patriots, Aaron Hernandez, has been convicted of first degree murder in the 2013 killing of Odin Lloyd. After months of court deliberations, the jury found Hernandez guilty of first degree murder and sentenced him to life in prison without parole. He has also been found guilty of an unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. There is no known cause for the murder and the murder weapon has still not been recovered. This is a low for Hernandez who, up until the trial, had signed a $40 million dollar contract with the New England Patriots. Senior Clare Hopper expressed her concern over the situation. “For the victim’s family this is heartbreaking because they lost a loved one,” she said. “This is also a sad incident for
photo provided/university career services
the defendant because he possessed so much talent and potential to be a great football player. He will never see life outside of a prison.” Conversely, sophomore Shujia Liu supported the jury’s decision. “The conviction was fair because he committed a brutal crime against an innocent person,” she said. “It is unfortunate that he will be living the remainder of his life in prison, especially since he is only 25 years old.” His conviction is a surprise to many, due to his high celebrity status as a football star on the New England Patriots. Ironically, Hernandez will be serving time at Massachusetts Correctional Institution (MCI) — Cedar Junction at Warpole, a prison that is approximately three miles from Gillette Stadium, the home of the New England Patriots. Hernandez will also be facing two more charges for the 2012 double murder charges of Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado in Boston. If Hernandez is found guilty of murder for both killings, he will serve a total of three life sentences.
postings, eyewitness accounts, scheduled press briefings and other elements, then were tasked with responding in discipline-appropriate ways. The journalism students pulled together groups that worked as media and updated the story throughout the day. Toxicology, homeland security and public relations students worked together through an exercise that was provided by the school called the University Emergency Plan as well as present press briefs and a press conference. Students were able to work with professionals from University Career Services and confer about how the event can be useful for an internship or job position. Students from the homeland security department were able to work with professionals from the Office of Emergency Management in New York City and go over how the mock emergency unraveled. “This was an extraordinary effort and cooperative venture by so many resourc-
es at the University. I know it gave our journalism students the kind of experiential learning that will help them with their journalism skills and provided a great experience they can build on when they pursue professional opportunities,” Michael Rizzo, director of the journalism program and assistant professor for the College of Professional Studies, said. Students who attended the event had no idea what was happening when the mock campus emergency began, but the event urged students to question their field of study and yearn to know more about the situation in which they were put in. “It was weird, I’m always on the receiving end of news in breaking news situations, but I’ve never been in this kind of situation before,” said Vargas. “It was pretty eye opening to see how quickly things escalate in those situations and how difficult it is to gather accurate information.”
Tsarnaev penalty sentencing trial begins Joanne corrielus Staff Writer Last week marked two years since the deadly Boston marathon bombings, which took the lives of four people and injured hundreds of others. Since that tragic day, one of the accused brothers of the Boston bombings was killed after a shootout with police and his younger brother. Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was taken into custody and pleaded not guilty to 30 federal charges, for all of which he was found guilty of. Earlier this week, the jury began hearing testimony from the prosecution, in the hopes of determining whether or not Tsarnaev should be sentenced to life in prison or if he should receive the death penalty instead. According to CNN, federal prosecutor Nadine Pellegrini started off by showing the jury a montage of photos of the four people that were killed by Tsarnaev and his brother. This was in an effort to show the jury the true impact of Tsarnaev’s actions. The montage of photos were followed by impact statements read by victims who were injured during the bomb-
ing, such as Celeste Coracon, as well as by the father of a woman who died in the bombing, William Campbell. Pellegrini ended by showing the jury a never before seen photo of Tsarnaev, which was taken three months after the bombing while he was in a jail cell. The photo shows Tsarnaev sticking his middle finger up at a surveillance camera. St. John’s sophomore, David Rosario, believes that Tsarnaev should spend the rest of his life in prison. “That seems the more appropriate punishment when you weigh the severity of his crimes. A quick and painless death is no punishment,” he said. Sophomore Nathalie Tigua agrees, “He shouldn’t have the pleasure to get his conscious wiped of everything he did. He should pay for what he did.” Pellegrini believes the photo shows why Tsarnaev should receive the death penalty. “Tsarnaev was and is unrepentant, uncaring and untouched by the havoc and sorrow that he has created,” Pellegrini said, according to CNN. “He was willing to cross every line for glory and reward.” The defense will give their opening statement next week.
The race is on
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Four presidential campaigns for the 2016 elections announced
Anabelle Madho Staff Writer
photo/theguardian.com
Senator Rand Paul
photo/salon.com
Senator Ted Cruz
photo/nationsofchange.com
Former Senator Hillary Clinton
photo/foxnews
Senator Marco Rubio
As the primary election of 2016 approaches, politicians set out to announce their candidacy for President of the United States. These include: Hillary Clinton, Rand Paul, Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz. The primary election will take place between the months of January and June of 2016. New York will hold it’s contest on Feb. 2. On April 12, Hillary Clinton announced her campaign on the Democratic collapse. She is presently the only Democratic nominee. Clinton began her political career when elected for U.S. Senate of the State of New York in 2001. She most recently served as Secretary of State under current President Barack Obama during his first term of presidency. It has been noticed that Clinton’s team struggles to keep her relationship with the press stable. Many are now wondering if this will affect her campaign. Professor Steven Jarmon, director of the public relations program, believes it will. “Her handling of the Whitewater scandal from her days as First Lady, the Benghazi situation when she was Secretary of State, and most recently, the email ‘problem’ may have tarnished her public perception because they were not handled particularly well,” Jarmon said. Student Government, Inc. (SGI) future Secretary Mariam Makram, says, “I feel like America is ready for a woman president.” But not everyone feels this way. Caroline Zottl, vice president of SGI, does not believe this is a playing factor in who she will vote for. ] She states, “As a woman, I want a president that respects the personal liberty of everyone; regardless of gender, stage of life, sexual preference, race or other trait.” Since February there have been rumors of Senator Rand Paul joining the race. As of April 6 those rumors were put to rest when Paul announced he would be running. His campaign emphasizes his main ideals, ‘Defeat the Washington Machine’ and ‘Build the American Dream.’ Sen. Paul quotes the Constitution while proudly expressing ideas about his campaign, “I want to unleash the American dream. I will return our country to freedom and prosperity, and restore the principles upon which this nation was founded: man’s right to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” Paul’s goal is to diminish the arrogance and corruption of the government. He believes the only way to make this a possibility is to limit government involvement. “I believe the less government intervention we have, the more the United States will succeed,” Zottl said. She agrees with Sen. Paul’s motives and plans to vote for him in the primaries. The concepts contained in his campaign set him apart from the other Republican candidates. Junior Olin Johnson said, “He’s young and not as conservative as his predecessors, which many on the right believe will attract more of the youth and minority votes.
Because Sen. Paul is so open-minded, his campaign is attractive to the population of minorities. Marco Rubio, a Republican senator from Florida, became the third Republican to announce his bid for presidency on April 13. He is the youngest in the race so far. His campaign focuses on building a ‘New American Century.’ He wants to improve education costs and address the income inequality that many feel causes the middle class to suffer. Ted Cruz, current senator of Texas, announced his campaign March 23 from Liberty University. He believes it is the one of the most important factors of the government that provides the people with a safer and stronger country. President of St. John’s jazz band Dylan DeFeo said, “It’s not government, it’s politics... It’s not about the people anymore. I’m not really investing a lot of faith in any of the candidates, to be honest.” Although it is still very early in the race and other candidates may
make announcements, Director of the Government and Politics Program Dr. Diane Heith said, “We have such low voter turnout in comparison to other countries.” Dr. Heith includes information about the elections in her class lectures in order to spark her students’ interest. She said, “They’re totally into it. We talk about it all the time.” She also believes it is absolutely painful that people do not take the initiative to vote. Prof. Martinez of the television and film program says, “The real story is why don’t people vote.” He explains that it is difficult to engage an audience that is not necessarily interested in politics. However, Dr. Heith reminds many of her students, “If you don’t like what’s going on in congress, the only way to change it is to vote.” DeFeo said, “You know, we’ll have to see if any last minute candidates hop in that really grab my attention.” This gives hope for the newer generation of youth going out to vote.
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Opinion
Staff Editorial board XCIII TALIA TIRELLA Co-Editor-in-Chief JENNY CHEN Co-Editor-in-Chief KYLE FITZGERALD Managing Editor CHEYANNE GONZALES General Manager AMANDA UMPIERREZ News Editor STEPHEN ZITOLO Sports Editor LIVIA PAULA Features Editor JASMINE IMANI DAVIS Entertainment Editor SUZANNE CIECHALSKI Opinion Editor
“A Statue of St. Vincent” Fr. Patrick J. Griffin, CM Special to the Torch Tucked into the corner where Newman Hall makes its right angle, just off the great lawn, stands a statue of St. Vincent de Paul. For those of us familiar with the Vincentian spirit, statues like this are as well known as family photos. They capture something of the man and his missionary heart. Our statue has Vincent carrying a single infant. If you head over to St. Thomas More Church and look at the stained glass window to the left of the main entrance, you will see a similar image. And, if you enter the Church and look up at the beautiful mosaic just above the door to the Church proper, you will see a third presentation of Vincent holding a child. Thus, three media (statue, stained glass and mosaic), only a short distance from each other, enable us to see Vincent in this characteristic stance of protection and concern (our Staten Island campus has many such representations as well). A story about Vincent gave rise to this representation. One day, we are told, he discovered an infant abandoned along a street of Paris. Carrying the child to a nearby church (St. Severin), he baptized the child. Then, Vincent brought the baby to the Ladies of Charity—a group that he had founded for charitable work—and spoke to them of their responsibility for such children. The rest is history. Taking care of the abandoned children of the street became a significant work of the Ladies of Charity and then of the Daughters of Charity that he
co-founded with Louise de Marillac. The care of abandoned children became a distinctive way to present Vincent and his ministry to the poor and most abandoned—in this case, children. In line with this focus, I saw an interesting invention from the Vincentian mind during my time in Paris. It was a chamber shaped like a capsule about three feet high and two feet in diameter. This chamber had windows cut on two opposite sides. Inside the first capsule, was a second, inner capsule with one window and it rotated easily within the first. Can you visualize it? Perhaps in its use! This capsule would be fixed into a wall of a house of the Daughters of Charity. One window of the outer capsule would be inside the building and one outside. One could rotate the inner chamber so that its window lined up and faced outside or inside. A mother who could not take care of her baby would place her infant in the open window and rotate the chamber. Thus, the child would appear inside the building when the windows aligned! Then, a Sister would come to care for the little one. This device enabled a woman to surrender her child without abandoning him/ her on the street. (Think of the “Safe Haven Law” in NY.) Vincent would approve! The care for children offers just one insight into the gentle heart of a saint. The statue, the stained glass and the mosaic can all remind us and inspire us with Vincent’s character. The lesson of serving the most vulnerable with respect and compassion stands forth clearly for a Vincentian University.
Run, Bernie, Run ANGEL VERA Staff Writer Just this past week, Hillary Clinton announced what everyone has already known for the past year--that she was running for president. This caused the minds of Democrats and moderates to explode in utter excitement while progressives and staunch liberals let out a mere “meh.” Why the lack of excitement from the Democrat’s more extreme part of the base one may ask? The answer is simple: they want someone like Bernie Sanders (I-VT), an Independent and self-proclaimed Democratic Socialist, who is ready to fight the billionaire class and not pander to it. While Hillary Clinton was teasing about running and causing headlines
about eating at Chipotle, which to me is unforgivable, Sanders has been creating an agenda and a platform of progressive ideals. Such ideas include stopping the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which is molded from the North American Free Trade Agreement that Bill Clinton passed while in office, and making statements at American University that public higher education should be free and allowing loans to be refinanced. In an interview on MSNBC, journalist Thomas Roberts asked, “What is Hillary Clinton campaigning on?” This is not only a valid question, but a very scary one as well. Why is there so much popularity and excitement over someone who has yet to form an agenda or make claims about what she wants done if elected?
Bernie Sanders, on the other hand, in his budget haring, has called for an overturn of Citizens United to get money out of politics, which is making the American political system one of wealth and power and less about working for the American people. He has also discussed creating a “Millionaire Tax” to fund U.S. military operations instead of siphonin it from the working class’ taxes. Bernie Sanders is very vocal about his positions and stern about fighting inequality in the United States and bringing down the oligarchy. Records and statements speak for themselves which is why I am not alone when claiming that Hillary Clinton is nothing to be excited about.
Flames of the Torch
Many students on Friday night that attended Relay For Life were in for a Saturday treat: Monday and Thursday classes met due to the ill-scheduled makeup snowday. Is it really fair that students joining together as a community in support of cancer research be subjected to a hardened class schedule the following morning? Is it fair to the committee members who spent the entire last year preparing for this event? Saturday class this past weekend was mandatory for Monday and Thursday classes, but for students still reeling from the long Relay For Life event the day before, they would hardly be able to retain much of the information taught. It is also unfair to say that students be put in the position of having to weigh the importance of academics over the Relay For Life. Focusing on academics is absolutely important, but Relay For Life is St. John’s University’s largest event and while we are on a Vincentian campus that stresses the significance of gaining a well-rounded education that includes campus extracurriculars. Thus, Relay For Life should not be underestimated. These make-up days are supposed to be for students to learn the information their tuition is paying for, but the ill-advised rescheduling has become adverse in its purpose. Not only was this past Saturday an inopportune time for students to meet, but our usual study day for finals in May has also been made a make-up day. This study day is integral to students in that
they rely on that day to study for several finals they may have over the next few days. To take that away from students means that students are lacking that extra time to help them do well on their finals. Just as facilities has prepared for the snow this year by pre-ordering more salt, the advisors of the University should also be preparing the academic calendar for possible snow days. In checking the academic calendar for the spring 2016 term, snow days have been set in place, but only one of them is constructive. The other is also cushioned under a study day. To have a make-up day scheduled for study day this year is almost understandable, but it is not acceptable when a blunder is repeated for two consecutive years. There should be another date set aside for a make-up snow day that does not effectively replace study day so that the students do not find themselves at a disadvantage when preparing for finals. It’s the students’ tuition the University is taking, it’s their study time, it’s professors pushing more work at them to beat a deadline that the University has set for grades to be submitted. Midterm week became sloppy because the midterm grades were due immediately after spring break, and a snow day that came not a week after our return to school. Midterm exams were rushed and students scrambled to study. Hopefully the University takes this into consideration when confronted by this issue again, so that the students can more effectively approach their studies.
ESPN Reporter gets out of line on camera ABHISHEK JOSHI Staff Writer On Thursday evening, a video of
ESPN reporter Britt McHenry was published online in which she is heard saying crude and disrespectful comments to an employee of a towing company. McHenry was suspended from ESPN for her actions. Such an incident proves that no matter how good of a job you have, nothing matters more than being a decent human being. I do see the reason behind her rage, as neither anyone else nor I would be amused to see their car towed, irrespective of whose fault it is. However, to comment on someone’s educational level or looks is not at all appropriate. She commented on the attendant’s appearance with, “Maybe if I was missing some teeth they would hire me, huh?” and “Lose some weight baby girl.” Personally, if I was in place of the attendant who was criticized, I would probably lose my cool. However, the attendant, as is shown in the video, remained professional and kept calm. On April 16, McHenry took to Twitter to apologize for her actions. She tweeted, “In an intense and stressful moment, I allowed my emotions to get the best of me and said some insulting and regrettable things. As frustrated as I was, I should always choose to be respectful and take the high road. I am so sorry for my actions and will learn from
this mistake.” Her anger however, is not reason enough for her actions. The only excuse that McHenry could use is to say that she didn’t think before she spoke and was probably clueless as to how the world would react to it. One of the most talked about things that she said was, “‘Cause I’m on television and you’re in a f***ing trailer, honey.” With as much love as I have for my own profession, I have the respect for others who stick by their profession as well. Being happy and proud of your job and position is a great thing, but to think that your job or designation makes you better than everyone else is despicable. I myself had no idea who McHenry was until the story of the video surfaced. Taking pride in who and what you are is a good thing and I believe everyone should do that; but, to demean someone else about his or her work, life or choices is simply uncalled for.
PHOTO/FLICKR
Autism Awareness: It’s about the rest of the spectrum, too BRANDON MAUK Digital Sports Editor The month of April is dedicated to the awareness and acceptance of children and people with autism, a neural disorder that affects the development of a child’s social and communication skills. In 2012, about 20 kids out of every 1,000 were diagnosed with autism in the United States. Asperger’s is one of three major disorders recognized in a range of behavioral and developmental disorders forming the autism spectrum. It is a high functioning form of autism that specifically affects social skills and some behavioral patterns that would be considered eccentric. Another major symptom includes the development of intense and sometimes obsessive interests in things, as well as a refusal to try other things. Some people may not notice that a person has Asperger’s because they seem to be totally normal as they mature, but early on they have trouble fitting in with peers and society. Eventually, many of them go on to become very successful in adult life. In a way, I think this is why the general population like way autism doesn’t recognize Asperger’s on the Autism spectrum. I have Asperger’s syndrome. I was diagnosed when I was about two years old when I couldn’t really speak yet. My mother told me she was very scared that I would never be able to overcome it or be successful as an adult. Throughout my childhood, I struggled to fit in because my social skills developed very slowly. I developed intense interests in sports, video games and music, and I’m still obsessive about them every day.
Even as a young adult nearing age 21 in May, I am still affected by Asperger’s. I have always had trouble adjusting to new things, I have fear of meeting new people and speaking in front of groups of people. I sometimes have random, compulsive thoughts when meeting people that I have learned to control, but it makes me appear and feel socially awkward. Even though I am doing very well in college, I still have had trouble making new friends. Many people with Asperger’s have been able to overcome the disorder and go on to become very successful. Famous people who may have had the disorder include Albert Einstein, Mark Twain, Mark Zuckerberg, several of the founding fathers of our country, Alfred Hitchcock, Bill Gates and comedian actors Michael Palin and Robin Williams. Indeed, the disorder mostly affects social skills rather than intelligence. However, many people believe that the disorder’s effect on social interaction development can lead some people to impulsive and explosive behavior. Some people have gone out and blamed recent mass shootings on Autism disorders. I assure you that even if they did have the disorder, they are so few and the stigma is cruel and unfair. We’re not like that at all. It is an unfair stigma that needs to end. I think people need to be aware of our struggles with Asperger’s and should embrace us. We are normal. We are intelligent. We are inventive. We are strong. We are just like everyone else. We just have trouble fitting in and we need help to find our way from our peers.
Ashes Again Don’t know how it came to this We weren’t supposed to end But even the strongest of bonds can fall apart And never be the same again Both of us are to blame We didn’t try hard enough The trust was never really there The walls never really came down So in the end, everything came crashing down again And a friendship that was so beautiful Turn into ashes again
By: Keisha Raymond “Mastery of Your Environment,” Nicole Marino
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Lifestyle
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Student workers SHinE at SJU
CHEYANNE GONZALES General Manager It was a beautiful spring afternoon at the University Center at St. John’s University: the smell of fresh flowers and freshly baked garlic bread filled the room. Dozens of faculty members and students invited to the Students Honored in Employment (SHinE) award ceremony were gathered around at assigned tables for the opening remarks. Student workers can be found on all college campuses, and on April 14, St. John’s University hosted its first SHinE event.SHinE was initiated by the Office of Human Resources and student employment to recognize the most respected, hardworking and diligent students who work on campus. “I am so happy that the students were honored because it’s a long time coming and they support the department so much,” Mary Cascio, student employment manager, said. Student workers must have two consistent semesters of employment, maintain good grades, work a minimum of 10 hours a week and be a fulltime student in order be eligible to be nominated for SHinE. Out of the 1,500 student workers at St. John’s, 81 students were nominated. There were 12 semi-finalists, and four students were awarded an honoree
TORCH PHOTO/DIANA COLAPIETRO
The 12 semi-finalists at SJU’s first SHinE event.
plaque and $500. There were four awarded recipients: Hungyi Liu (Steven) nominated by Maria Barbarino from the University Library, Jean Paul Murphy nominated by Trina LoPrimo from the Student Enrollment Services on the Staten Island campus, Jason Nieves nominated by Lillian Donovan from Public Safety and Robert
Pope nominated by Dr. Michelle Jones from the Global Language Cultural Center SJC. According to Cascio, the university decided to host their award program during the same week as national employment week, which took place on April 12-18. The four students selected by the
school will be represented in the 2015 National Student Employment Association. Out of the 12 semi-finalists, Michael Andranvoich, an environmental science major and student worker for the Office of Facilities/Sustainability seemed to be the most recognized by the faculty at the event. “Michael has got the qualities and passion to do the right thing with whatever he does,” Thomas Goldsmith, director of Energy and Environmental Conservation Facilities Services said. The students recognized at the award program are known as the university’s best. They are the most hardworking and dedicated students who take on their roles in the positions they hold, with professionalism and commitment to the learning experience. “First off, I love my job. The position I have has really pushed me towards a future, not just in environmental science like sitting in a lab all day, but really working outdoors,” Andranvoich said. As the awards were presented and the students were recognized, there was a recognizable trend in the qualities that all of the nominated students had— they were all dedicated and went above and beyond what was assigned to them. “I think it’s a great opportunity to recognize the kids who work the hardest on campus,” Andranvoich said. “I’m very happy I got nominated.”
Piano instructor a major success at benefit concert
DARYLIN PAYTON
Staff Writer
The Marillac Auditorium at St. John’s University had people scattered all over the room. The auditorium is quiet and brightly lit, and the only thing heard is music from the piano. Sound fills the air. Classical pianist and Professor Anne Tedesco sits with confidence at the piano as she keys songs from well-known pianists, such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Domenico Scarlatti, Claude Debussy, W.A. Mozart, Isaac Albeniz and Frederic Chopin.
“She plays ever so smoothly and eloquently, so much that you can tell she’s definitely an experert pianist.”
-Iovannie Echavarria-
Tedesco was able to change the mood of the room with each song played. Johann Sebastian Bach’s Prelude in D Major, the first song of the night, made the room come alive with its rhythm, followed by the smooth legato phrasings. She went on to do many songs bring-
ing the crowd through a variety of different themes. “She plays ever so smoothly and eloquently, so much so that you can tell she’s definitely an expert pianist,” onlooker Iovannie Echavarria said. “I thought it was a nice show.” This was Tedesco’s 21st time playing a solo in the university’s Marillac Auditorium, but she is no stranger to the piano or the stage. She made her first debut in New York’s Carnegie Recital Hall. Tedesco has also been recognized in the New York Times for her skills and received many awards for both her playing and teaching. On April 16, Tedesco performed her 21st solo piano concert in Marillac Auditorium. The event was a benefit concert. All proceeds went to the William B. Ronald’s Art Scholarship. Professor William Ronald himself created the William B. Ronald’s Art Scholarship in the 1990s when he served as Chair for the Department of Fine Arts. The scholarship was first called “Art Students In Crisis.” The scholarship was created for students who enrolled in the Bachelor of Fine Arts programs, but couldn’t afford it. The program has managed to continue on for 20 years and has provided many opportunities for those students who are dedicated, but lack the funds. At the end of the evening, the crowd clapped with delight. Tedesco’s friends, amongst other audience members,
walked up to the stage with bouquets of roses and a bottle of wine. Filled with joy from the response of the guests, Tedesco offered to play one last song for the crowd. The song was a Frederic Chopin waltz in “A” minor. This song was a
tranquil piece to end the night. After concluding the hour-long solo concert, Tedesco said she felt “good.” After many weeks of long hours practicing and teaching, she had finally achieved what audience members described as an “amazing show.”
Tedesco playing the piano for the 21st time at St. John’s.
TORCH PHOTO/GINA PALERMO
Behind Relay For Life’s “Purple Storm”
LIVIA PAULA
Features Editor It is April once again, and the Red Storm has turned purple. Several events and fundraisers happened for various months leading up to this day. As one walked around campus on April 17, they saw St. John’s University’s students and faculty headed towards Carnesecca arena representing their organizations. For outsiders, the event looked like an enormous sleepover, with students and faculty carrying around their pillows and blankets. Inside the arena, people gathered to walk the survivors lap throughout the night. Cancer survivors and supporters came together for a good cause. “Celebrate. Remember. Fight back.” That was the logo spread around campus for St. John’s University’s 10th Relay For Life event. “I joined Relay when I came to St. John’s because I have had several family members and close family friends who have been touched by cancer,” said sophomore Catherine Sheehan, the chair of Relay For Life. Her first Relay experience was in 2014 when she was the cochair of the entertainment committee and worked directly with Relay For Life. Relay For Life started at 6 p.m. and ended at 6 a.m. the next day. This overnight event is the biggest event on campus, gathering different organizations and teams who raised money. The American Cancer Society event, represented by the color purple, was made to celebrate the lives of cancer survivors, remember those who weren’t fortunate enough and raise money to help those who are fighting the disease. The event
This year ’s Relay For Life broke records.
happens in high schools and colleges around the country. This year, St. John’s University broke their record by raising $114,223. According to Sheehan, planning for Relay 2015 began last May. “When one Relay ends, preparations start almost immediately for the next one,” she said. Sheehan considered herself “blessed” to work with her chair Katie Dineen, co-chair Cody Barber, her dedicated committee and the administration, particularly Mary Pelkowski. Sheehan’s favorite part of this year’s Relay was the survivors lap following the opening ceremony. “There’s a couple that comes each year, both are survivors and they walked the lap holding hands,” she said. “This was the most beautiful moment for me.” Her most memorable Relay experiwas the opening ceremony last year, particularly the Luminaria ceremony.
PHOTO/NICHOLAS AMSTER
“Each year we sell Luminaria in memory and in honor of those who are fighting or have fought cancer,” Sheehan said. “It was this beautiful moment where everyone in Carnesecca was there to fight, to fight for those who have lost their battle, are fighting it or were there with us to celebrate beating cancer.” The Luminaria ceremony was also the favorite part for senior Katie Dineen, this year’s chair of the Student Affairs committee and former chair for Relay For Life. “For just a few minutes, every student, guest and administrator in the room forgets about their own problems, their papers, their jobs and their to-do-lists and they remember why they participate in Relay for Life in the first place,” Dineen said. She believes that the St. John’s community values student engagement and she is very fortunate to be part of it.
“It’s very humbling to know that something you have put so much work into becomes something so much bigger than ourselves,” she said. “Relay would be nothing without the students and alumni who commit themselves to fundraising for the cause.” Dineen’s first experience with the event happened while she was still a junior in high school. “Seeing everyone there supporting each other committed me to Relay for the rest of my life,” she said. Relay For Life isn’t only about the survivors lap and touching ceremonies— various student organizations and entertainers join the cause to make the attendees of the event engaged throughout the night. Sophomore Alexandra Kaiser is the chair of the Entertainment Committee, and she is the one who planned and executed the event decorations, activities and entertainment from the actual Relay For Life event as well as the events leading up to it, such as the Purple Ball fundraiser. Kaiser committed to relay in honor of her father. “I joined Relay last February, two months after my dad was diagnosed with cancer,” Kaiser said. “He has been my inspiration from the start and I continue to Relay in his honor.” Kaiser said that one of the things she loves about her job is how many students reach out to be part of the event. “I think that it is so wonderful that so many students have a passion for Relay and are willing to volunteer their time and talents to help us have an amazing night,” she said.
Café Habana: A taste of Cuba
LAUREN EDEN
Staff Writer
In case you haven’t heard, new regulations were put into effect in January regarding travel to Cuba from the U.S. Although there are still restrictions, the New York Times reported that American entry into Cuba is the easiest its been in the last 50 years. Many U.S. citizens are booking flights and planning their trips to the largest island in the Caribbean in hopes of finding adventure, beautiful sites and delicious food. Unfortunately for college students who are “balling on a budget,” a trip to Cuba may not be on our agenda anytime soon. However, taking a trip to Café Habana could have you thinking you’re in Cuba, while keeping your funds in check. Located in NoLita, an area in Lower Manhattan, Café Habana turns out quality Cuban food, including a Cuban sandwich that was voted the best in NYC according to most review websites. The
popular eatery was featured in the film “Friends with Benefits,” when Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis were shown eating at a window table. Boasting a menu filled with mouthwatering options, deciding on what to eat at Café Habana may be one of life’s hardest decisions. Arguably, the most popular items on the menu are the grilled Mexican corn and the Cuban sandwich. Many people recommend these items to newcomers, and they do so for a good reason. The grilled Mexican corn is covered in a mixture of mayonnaise, cotija
cheese, chili powder and a spritz of lime. The idea of putting mayonnaise on corn may seem a little unappetizing, but it harmoniously combines with the crumbly cotija cheese, which is similar to feta in taste. An order of the corn costs $6.95 and includes two large cobs; but, it’s important to refrain yourself from filling up on the addictive dish to allow room for the Cuban sandwich. A standard Cuban sandwich consists of roast pork, ham, swiss cheese, pickles and mustard. Café Habana puts a slight
TORCH PHOTOS/LAUREN EDEN
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twist on their version by marinating the pork in citrus and replacing mustard with chipotle mayonnaise. The sandwich, which is pressed in a panini maker and accompanied with a side of French fries, costs just $10.95, and it is possibly the best $10.95 you’ll ever spend. The pork is tender, the ham and cheese are flavorful, the chipotle mayonnaise and pickles are tangy and your taste buds are happy. It is literally impossible not to be overjoyed while eating this sandwich. In the midst of the spring semester home stretch, it’s too common for students to be under a ridiculous amount of stress. Take the time to treat yourself to an authentic meal that you don’t have to break the bank for. Café Habana’s combination of friendly service, yummy food and cool tunes could provide you with a temporary escape from the realities of finals and term papers. Besides, food is therapy. Although that may not actually be statistically true, you’ll definitely agree with that statement after eating at Café Habana.
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JASMINE IMANI DAVIS Entertainment Editor
Meek Mill and Nicki Minaj in Miami
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AG ST
The alleged couple have been seen together in public and over social media for a few months. And now, in recent reports, these two may have gotten secretly engaged. On Wednesday, “The Pinkprint” rapper’s fans started to wonder if Meek Mill , 27, had proposed after she posted on Twitter of ring emojis with “I’ll post it later.” The 32-year-old also posted a cute photo on Instagram of her and her beau with an enormous diamond ring on her left ring finger. To tease her fans a little bit more, Minaj posted a picture of her hand rocking a very gaudy ring. “This looks like a 15-carat fancy yellow heart modified brilliant-cut diamond mounted in platinum with a double halo of white pavé diamonds,” Morgan Shara of MASbisjoux jewelry told E! News. “This would retail for approximately $500,000.” Even though there hasn’t been any concrete confirmation statements about Minaj and Mill making it official, Drake
IN
After nearly nine months of dating bliss, E! News confirmed that rapper Big Sean and singer Ariana Grande have broken up. On Monday morning, the former lovebirds released a joint statement through their reps to their fans: “They both care deeply for each other and remain close friends.” Later that afternoon, a source told E! News what went wrong between the two. “They made the decision to part ways because their conflicting touring schedules would keep them apart over the next year,” the source said. “Ariana and Big Sean have had a great relationship and they are still very close friends and will remain in each others lives. It hasn’t been easy though with both of their busy schedules lately and they know it’s going to get even harder in the next few months. This was really difficult for them to publicly call it quits but they thought it would be better this way so people know there is no bad blood between them at all.” The “Control” rapper, 27, and the
may have confirmed the rumors. During the second weekend of Coachella t while Drake was performing, the “Harajuku Barbie” hopped on stage where he expressed his love for her and congratulated her. Even though he didn’t specifically say what he was congratulating her for, her ring said it all when it glistened as the two hugged. Congrats, Nicki and Meek.
/ TO
“Love Me Harder” singer, 21, confirmed that they were dating in Oct. 2014. Since then, they’ve made onstage and red carpet appearances together, as well as cute posts mentioning each other on social media. Also, in the joint statement, the reps “kindly ask that the media respect their wish for privacy regarding this personal matter at this time.”
PHO
On Saturday, some great news was shared after about three months of Bobbi Kristina Brown being in a coma. The 22-year-old’s father, Bobby Brown, told his fans during his appearance at a Frankie Beverly concert at the Verizon Theatre in Dallas, Texas that his “baby is awake.” According to USA Today, her aunt and Bobby’s sister, Tina Brown, created a post on her Facebook page, which is now deleted, that B.K. “woke up” and is “going to be okay.” “So many messages,sorry can’t answer them all right now but I will get to them later..just allow me this time with my family,,yes,she woke up and is no longer on life support!!!!!:):)God is good!!thanks for your prayers,,still a process,but she is going to be ok:):):):).” The Facebook post went live on Sunday and was shared by a friend of Tina’s, Keliah Fell, who also took to Facebook asking fans to keep Bobbi Kristina in their prayer. According to a TMZ report, sources connected with the Houston family says that they have no idea where Bobby is getting his information, nor do they know why Tina said she’s awake and no longer on life support. The daughter of the late Whitney Houston was first hospitalized after being found faced down and unresponsive in a bathtub at her suburban Atlanta town-
home on January 31. She was relocated to an undisclosed location since she was released from Emory University Hospital in Atlanta last month. According to the Houstons, “she’s in the exact same condition she was in when she went into the facility.” There is “minimal” reaction, an occasional eye blink, but that’s all and she is still on a ventilator.
Passion Pit announces third “Kindred” album title JON MANARANG Staff Writer
Passion Pit 5 out of 5 stars Kindred (Album)
After a lengthy tour for their 2012 release “Gossamer,” Michael Angelakos of Passion Pit announced in 2014 the release of a then-untitled third album. The upcoming release, now known as “Kindred,” features the signature sugar-sweet, sucrose laden hooks that casual listeners and major fans have come to associate with the band. Initially, on Feb. 16, 2015, the single “Lifted (1985)” was released. It featured
a massive chorus and production indicative of modern electronica with some elements reminiscent of David Guetta and other pop artists. On the track, the band plays heavily into the loud/soft dynamic similar to some of their bigger hits like “Sleepyhead” and “Take a Walk.” However, the band does understand a flipside to the bombastic sound they have been known to feature in writing the smooth, bass-driven “Where the Sky Hangs,” which is sonically a more upbeat version of “Constant Conversations.” Aside from lead singer Michael Angelakos’ production work, there are also contributions from electronica producer Benny Blanco (noted for his work with Kesha and Maroon 5), as well as German film composer Hans Zimmer who is known for soundtracks in “Pirates of the Caribbean” and the “Batman” series. Since the release of “Gossamer,” Angelakos has married his girlfriend Kristina Mucci who was a significant muse for the record. The track “On My Way” was written for her and the album itself was dedicated to Mucci. Her influence is still present on “Kindred” in the lyrics of the record and even the track “Lifted (1985)” uses the year in which she was born. About the uplifting positivity of the record, Angelakos claims, “is certainly a much more optimistic record. It’s autobiographical. I’ve never been in a more stable place where I can now look to the future [and] think of all the things I want to make better [and] healthier and
Lead singer Michael Angelakos on Passion Pit Tour Ad.
be happy. There’s obviously tons of frustration and confusion all over the record, but that’s part of figuring it all out.” Amongst the discourse of Angelakos’ personal life is his struggle with bipolar disorder, which he attributes to his lack of a prolific catalog and believes has hindered his career. The singer was placed on suicide watch during the production of “Gossamer” and has even criticized films such as “Silver Linings Playbook” for their “cheap use of mental health as legs for plot.” The album artwork, promotional material and lyrics portray this record as one
PHOTO/INSTAGRAM
of the most focused and thematic albums of the band’s catalog to date. Even at some of the more-down tempo moments of the record, it plays as a dance pop record through and through. Featuring the same bright, vivid colors, the visuals reflect a sense of nostalgia and naïveté which denotes a sense of romanticization in looking back on youth. All in all, the record shows Passion Pit fitting neatly into the niche Angelakos has carved for themselves since first writing the “Chunk of Change” EP back in 2008 and sharpening his hooks along the way.
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Think Outside...
Sports
Ayton’s long journey from England coming to end in S.C. TROY MAURIELLO Staff Writer
A long journey that began across the Atlantic Ocean will come to an end this week, when St. John’s golfer Obe Ayton plays in his final collegiate tournament for the Red Storm in the Big East Championships. For Ayton, who began golfing at age 15 but didn’t compete seriously until he turned 18 or 19, growing up overseas in England gave him a prodigious work ethic that he still carries today. “Sport in England isn’t pushed. It’s more that you have to drive yourself,” he said. “There’s no college teams. There’s no high school teams. You have to get good at the sport yourself.” That work ethic carried him to the United States for college, where he first enrolled at LIU Brooklyn in 2012. He was named the Northeast Conference (NEC) Rookie of the Year and was named to the All-NEC Second Team after an impressive freshman season for the Blackhawks. “I enjoyed it there, it was a good introduction to America,” he said. “I was the best golfer there and I got a lot of attention.” But, after playing just one more season at LIU Brooklyn, Ayton would make
the decision to transfer to St. John’s for his final two years of eligibility. “I wanted to take my golf more seriously, I just moved because I wanted to better my sport,” he said. That move has turned out to be a positive one for Ayton, who says that after a rough first year at St. John’s he has started to really enjoy it here, and his game on the course has improved as well. This season he has shot a team-low 73 average in tournaments, including a tie for sixth place at the Peacocks Invitational in New Jersey after a second place finish at the Princeton Invitational just two days earlier on April 12. Ayton said that he hasn’t made any major changes to his swing in almost a year, and that his recent success is a product of a great deal of hard work from that point on. “Last year I found something that clicked,” Ayton said. “It’s annoying because it’s such a slow progression, but I’m just getting better and better at it. I’m starting to see the results.” Now that he’ll be playing in his final collegiate tournament at the Big East Championships later this week, Ayton got a chance to reflect on his career. “My best memories are really just playing in tournaments all around America and having the support from the school in everything that I do,” he said.
After he finishes his Red Storm career, Ayton says that he plans on continuing to golf. “My plan is to go professional, but I want to wait until I’m good
enough. I’m not in any rush,” he said. “But I think these last few events have really given me a bit of confidence to try the pro circuit.”
PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Obe Ayton shot a team low average score of 73 in his senior season.
After tough start, Kim has excelled as a Johnny ANTHONY SCIANNA Staff Writer
Anna Kim is putting St. John’s women’s golf on the map. The charismatic junior is heating up when it counts, helping St. John’s finish fourth in this years Big East Tournament. Kim stepped up for the Johnnies, finishing first on her team and seventh overall. She carded a 230 (+14) through three rounds of play, shooting a week-low 74 in the final round. Her impressive short game kept her in the mix. Along with timely putting, Kim held her own with the best golfers in the conference. Strong senior leadership has brought the Red Storm closer together. The chemistry is at an all-time high and Kim agrees. “I think this year our team was pretty close,” Kim said. “We went through a lot of up and downs and that made us support each other even more. It’s been quite a journey this year and I feel like we are family because we are always there for each other.” Golf was a family affair for the Kims. Anna’s father Jongsung made sure Anna and her two sisters (Sebin and Alexa) started young. Anna even recalls frequent trips to the driving range with her father back in Canada. “I started playing golf because of my sisters and my sisters started because of my dad. He took my oldest sister to the range when she was young and that’s when we all started
playing golf,” Kim said. East coast courses were no match for Kim. She first showcased her dominance in the Rutgers Women’s Invitational, shooting a two round total of 144 (+2). She led the field, tying for first and capturing the best round of the week with a 69. “It was hard to playing golf during the wintertime, as Arizona is warm all year around. But, being closer to family was something I thought was important for myself,” Kim said. Having to adjust quickly after transferring from the University of Arizona, Anna adapted to the New York lifestyle. “Coach and my teammates have been treating me so well to adapt here at St. John’s,” Kim said. “It was a little tough my first semester to get used to the environment; but, since my sister Sebin stayed here one more year with me, and she was on the team before, coach Bishop and some of the upperclassmen girls has been very helpful.” Her efforts were rewarded, and Kim was recently named Big East Women’s Golfer of the Week after a stellar performance at the Seton Hall Pirate Invite. She earned fifth place after totaling a 150 (+6) through two rounds. This is a characteristic that Kim has shown through many lights- out performances this year. In fact, the Canadian native has finished among the top 15 in all eight events this year and has been in the top five for five of them. Kim’s future is bright. She under-
stands her talent and puts it on display every time she hits the links. So what’s next for Kim? No one is certain, but we have a pretty good idea. “Five years down the road, I see
myself playing in the LPGA. I have always wanted to play professionally, and, even though it may be challenging, I am ready to face that challenge,” a smiling Kim said.
PHOTO /ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Anna Kim’s calming influence helped lead the Red Storm to a fourth place finish at the Big East Championships in Florida.
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St. John’s splits with Creighton, remain tied atop Big East Johnnies open six game homestand with Marist and Manhattan
BRANDON MAUK
Digital Sports Manager
St. John’s needed a shutdown start after falling behind 1-0 in the biggest series of the season, as well as the biggest game of the season, on the road against Creighton on Saturday. Ryan McCormick provided that shutdown and more. McCormick pitched 7.1 innings and allowed just one unearned run, while striking out eight. McCormick combined with Thomas Hackimer (1.2 IP) to pitch a one-hitter in a 4-1 victory over Creighton. The win tied the Red Storm (21-13, 6-2) with the Blue Jays for first place in the Big East at 6-2. “I just wanted to make it even for us. We came out a little soft first game, so I wanted to come out hard, compete for us and try to even up the series for us,” McCormick said. Coming into the game, McCormick’s ERA sat at 4.57, but his performance lowered it down to 3.91. His record now sits at 6-1 and he leads the Big East in wins. This came after St. John’s dropped the first game of this rain-shortened series. The Johnnies lost the first game on Friday 6-0, as freshman Rollie Lacy pitched a four-hit, complete game shutout for the Blue Jays. Cody Stashak gave up five runs after pitching into the sixth inning. On Saturday, Creighton jumped out
1-0 in the second inning following a throwing error by catcher Tyler Sanchez and an RBI single by Creighton’s Harrison Crawford. McCormick settled down as he retired 17 straight batters after the error. “Very good fastball command, good command of all three pitches. Was able to pitch backwards at times when he needed to,” St. John’s head coach Ed Blankmeyer said. “Just an outstanding performance by Ryan.” St. John’s rallied in the sixth inning on a sacrifice fly by Troy Dixon and an RBI double by Jarred Mederos. Alex Caruso extended the lead in the seventh on an RBI single and Matt Harris doubled in another in the eighth. Thomas Hackimer relieved McCormick with one on and one out in the eighth and retired all five batters he faced to finish off the one-hitter. His five-out save was the seventh of his breakout season, leading the Big East. “I try to go out as long as I can every single game, especially when you have Hack, Tom Hackimer in the bullpen,” McCormick said. “He can come in at any inning and pretty much shut the game down. So, that was good for us.” The series finale was canceled due to rain in Omaha, so St. John’s and Creighton remain tied for first in the conference. The Red Storm will return to Jack Kaiser Stadium for the next six games where they will host Iona, Marist, Manhattan, and a three-game conference series against Villanova.
TORCH PHOTO EDITOR/DIANA COLAPIETRO
Ryan McCormick had a dominating performance Saturday afternoon throwing 7.1 innings, giving up only one hit and an unearned run.
Johnnies storm to 12th straight Big East win REZA MORENO Staff Writer
The St. John’s softball team has torn up the Big East this season. The Red Storm (21-13, 12-0) extended its Big East twelve game-winning streak after a stellar offensive display this weekend against Seton Hall. They hit well in all three game of the series, as they swept the Pirates 8-1, 12-4 and 4-0. With only a few more weeks left before the Big East Championships, Head Coach Amy Kvilhaug wants to see “continuation of consistency” in the final weeks of the season. “I thought Seton Hall had a really good ball club,” Kvilhaug said. “They have a pretty deep offensive lineup and came to play. Our challenge was to come out with our “A” game and to play at a high level against a quality team for at least 21 innings this weekend.” On Saturday afternoon, in their first game of a double-header, not much happened in the first four innings until freshman Krystal Puga started off the fourth inning with a base hit into the center, followed by a double by Erin Burner. Sophomore Brittany Garcia was able to put across the first run of the game with a RBI groundout to second to score Puga, giving the Red Storm a 1-0 advantage. Freshman Savannah Warren would continue the Red Storm rally
with an RBI single as the Johnnies took a 2-0 lead to the bottom of the fourth. Puga and Garcia both added a home run each in the seventh inning to give St. John’s the 8-1 win. In the top of the fifth Sophomore Monique Landini and Puga had backto-back doubles, as Burner helped bring in more runs with a two-run home run down the left-field line, extending the lead to 5-0. But, the Pirates were not going to let that go as they fought back with four-consecutive base hits leading them to their first run of the game, 5-1. Junior Tori Free pitched a complete game in the first game of the twin bill, allowing nine hits, one earned run and striking out five. As they came back for the second game of the double-header, Seton Hall tried their best to turn it around, taking advantage of a St. John’s error and leading 1-0. But Garcia started off in the top of the second inning with a stand-up double into left, followed by junior Yvonne Rericha putting a few players in scoring position by laying down a sucessful bunt base hit. After a hit by Warren, two runners would score for St. John’s, giving them a 2-1 lead. In the top of the fourth the Red Storm put up five runs on five hits and an error, helping the team to a 9-1 at the end of the fourth. In game two on Saturday, the Red Storm easily won, 12-4.
To kick off their final game on Sunday, the Pirates pitching held the Johnnies offense to less runs, but they couldn’t get any runs across the plate on the offensive side of things. The Red Storm was able to scratch across four late inning runs to win 4-0. Free dominated the Seton Hall
offense for the second time of the weekend. She pitched her second straight complete game, shutting out the Pirates while allowing five hits and striking out five. This coming weekend the team will be playing against Creighton in Nebraska.
TORCH PHOTO EDITOR/DIANA COLAPIETRO
Brittany Garcia had a stellar week as she batted .600 with nine RBI’s and two homers en route to the Big East Weekly Honor Roll.
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Tennis coach has taken on challenging, but familiar role
Eric Rebhuhn has taken on coaching duties for both men’s and women’s teams
WILSON SY Staff Writer
St. John’s tennisprogram was in need of a women’s tennis coach before the season. Instead of looking outside for a new head coach, they looked within. When the season started, Eric Rebhuhn was the head coach of the men’s tennis team. Rebhuhn spent four seasons as head coach of both the men’s and women’s tennis programs in Northern Iowa (1997-2001) before taking over the St. John’s men’s tennis team in 2001. It became apparent that the women’s tennis team was in need of a coach and Rebhuhn took the reigns. “I enjoy mentoring the kids, teaching them about life. My love of tennis, I love teaching the game. I love using tennis for life,” Rebhuhn said. “I spent most of my life the last 14 years building a really, really good tennis program on the men’s side. My goal as a coach is to accomplish the same goals for the women’s program as we have for the men’s.” Rebhuhn received a tennis scholarship at Concordia College in 1993, where he won over 150 matches and where he also received his degree, a B.S. in psychology. Aspiring to build a career within the sport, Rebhuhn pursued his M.A. in
physical education with a specialization in sports psychology at the University of Northern Iowa. As a two-time Big East Coach of the Year and after leading the men’s squad to winning its third conference championship crown and securing its first ever NCAA Tournament berth, Rebhuhn is looking to elevate both St. John’s programs to the next level. “There needs to certainly be synergy between the two programs,” coach Rebhun said. “I really felt that I can give a certain edge to the women’s program and bring them up to the same level as the men’s and have two great programs. I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity and I feel it’s going to be a winwin for everybody and everybody deserves the opportunity to be successful.” Aside from leading his players to success on the playing field, coach Rebhuhn takes a lot of pride for his athletes in contributing to off-the-field success as well. “We have a 3.5 GPA on the men’s [tennis] side and a 3.87 on the women’s [tennis] side and it’s important that we strive very highly to have high academics and that’s a really important aspect of the program. We have always been successful academically and I continue to strive to be the top academic team and do the right things, Rebhuhn said.” Growing up on the North Shore of Long Island, about 10 miles from St. John’s University, Rebhuhn’s passion for
the sport was influenced by his father at an early age. “My father was in coaching,” Rebhuhn said. “He got me into tennis my
whole life. He’s been very influential. I have been coaching to be around tennis my whole life and it was very influential for me becoming a coach.”
PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Eric Rebhuhn celebrating the 2014 Big East Championship with the men’s team.
Lacrosse struggles to stop high-powered ‘Nova attack Red Storm’s slide continues, drop their fifth game in their last six contests WILSON SY Staff Writer
Despite a hot-start with a variety of shots, plenty of hat tricks and attackmen Eric DeJohn and Stefan Diachenko’s three goals each, it was still not enough to overcome Villanova’s high power offense. The Red Storm lost in a 21-11 defeat on Saturday night. St. John’s came out aggressively taking an early 4-1 lead in the first 5:47 first quarter and had a lead of 9-8 midway into the second period. From there, the Wildcats took control to close the half with a 10-9 lead, holding St. John’s scoreless in the third period, while capitalizing on an 8-0 run. “Things really spiraled away from us in the second half, and collectively, as a group, we played like a frustrated team,” St. John’s head coach Jason Miller said. “We’re a better lacrosse team than the last 30 minutes showed tonight.” St. John’s dropped to 3-10 overall, 1-3 in Big-East play, but does remain alive for a spot in the 2015 Big-East Championship with a must-win game at Georgetown on Saturday, April 25 at 1 p.m. Providence also needs to beat Villanova (6-6, 1-3) on the same day in order for the Red Storm to clinch a playoff berth into the conference tour-
nament postseason. Besides DeJohn and Diachenko, five different Johnnies- Nick Heller, Brian Gaffney, Jack Lally, Jason DeBenedictis and Michael Paoline- each scored a goal. St. John’s as a team went 12-for12 on clearings, along with only committing seven turnovers. However, the Red Storm were outshot 55-33, picked up fewer ground balls game 27-21 and lost 23-of-36 face-offs, while Villanova took control of 4-of-9 extra man opportunities. For the Johnnies, DeJohn finished with a hat trick with goals (3) and assists (3) while senior co-captain Diachenko had two assists for a total of five points. Sophomore face-off man Jack Lally and junior long-stick midfielder (LSM) Michael Paoline, scored their first ever career goals. Senior LSM Chris Fisher Jr. picked up a teamhigh of five groundballs while the other senior co-captain and defenseman Mark DiFrangia added three. Villanova was led by freshman Sean Cerrone, who finished with a career-high of five goals, while attacker Danny Seibel tied a season-best four goals. Eight other Wildcats players also scored goals. Early in the contest, St. John’s connected on all angles, scoring a combined six goals in the first quarter, the highest scoring opening period for the Red Storm this season. However, the Wildcats quickly came back from a
three-goal deficit in the last 5:15 of the first to even the contest 6-6. The Johnnies never recovered from Villanova’s offensive burst in the sec-
ond and third quarters and allowed the Wildcats to score their most goals since April 17, 1999 against St. Joseph’s.
PHOTO /ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Stefan Diachenko scored three goals for SJU in the loss to Villanova on Saturday.
Pariis Garcia: Continuing her family’s St. John’s legacy
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The junior sprinter’s parents have always supported her, not pressured her CARMINE CARCIERI Staff Writer
Improvement and development are two keys to any college sports program and the St. John’s track and field team has seen these drastic developments from Pariis Garcia. Garcia, who is a junior mid-distance runner, won the 400-meter dash at last month’s Big East Indoor Track and Field Championship (her first individual title), as she put up the seventh fastest time in the history of the program. She also has settled in at the school with the help of her parents, former St. JOhn’s runners themeselves and a wonderful coaching staff. The 5’7” sprinter’s parents, Alberto and Youree Garcia, graduated in 1988 after tremendous careers in the track and field program. Youree’s success will leave an everlasting impact on Queens. Youree was inducted into the St. John’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013 after winning 11 total Big East individual titles and was named 1985 Big East Indoor Championship Outstanding Athlete. With her parents having so much success, Garcia dealt with a “little bit” of pressure early in her St. John’s career, but has relished the fact that the ex-runners have been a significant help to her progress on the track.
“If I felt pressure, it was from me or the people knowing them,” Garcia said. “It wasn’t directly from them. They helped me because they have always loved St. John’s. They always had a good word about the environment or the coaching staff and that really helped me because it made me very comfortable.” Garcia has also enjoyed the presence of head coach Jim Hurt and his assistant Aliann Pompey, who have both instilled confidence and strong expectations in the Staten Island native both on and off the track. “I’ve known coach Hurt forever because he coached my parents,” Garcia said. “But I’ve got to know him more over the last four years and he wants the best for all of us in every way. I don’t think there’s a better head coach out there than him.” “[Pompey] is very different from any coach I’ve had. If I don’t feel that I run as well, she’s so confident in her training that, in return, it makes me very confident. That’s the number one thing in track. It’s mental.” The expectations, pressure and hard work are all paying off, for, as Garcia already qualified the Eastern College Athletic Conference Championship and hopes to win the Big East Championship in the 400-meter dash and 200-meter dash. “I also definitely want to make it to National Meet (NCAA Outdoor Champi-
onships) for the 400 (yard dash) and the 4-by-4 (relay),” Garcia said. “So hopefully we make it to Eugene.” And with those goals in reach, Pari-
is’ family and coaching staff will be by her side hoping for more success for the both the families legacy and the program.
PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Pariis Garcia won her first individual title in the 400-meter dash at the Big East Championships.
Track and field keeps on rolling during historic season KEISHA RAYMOND Staff Writer
During the first day of the Larry Ellis Invitational hosted by Princeton University, the St. John’s track and field team continued to shine as they broke two school records and had a few athletes finish in the top 10 on Friday. Freshman Izzi Batt-Doyle and junior Stephanie Van Pelt both set school records in the steeplechase and the 1,500-meters. Marlow Schulz and Nyla Woods qualified for the USA Junior Championships in Eugene, Ore. in June. “We had an exceptional opening day at the Larry Ellis Invitational,” head coach Jim Hurt said. “Our ladies continue to be impressive in their competitive efforts in all event areas.” Junior Stephanie Van Pelt had already broken a school record in the indoor 1,000-meter run this past winter at the ECAC Championship and broke yet another record on Friday. On Friday, Van Pelt broke the 31-yearold program record in the outdoor 1,500-meter event. She finished with a time of 4:27.10 to finish ninth overall. Van Pelt broke the record previously held by Margarita Sabogal, who set the record in 1984 with a time of 4:29.18. “Running at Princeton is always fun. It’s a fast track with good competition. I did surprise myself with breaking the school record. I knew I was able to do it
this season but I didn’t know I was capable of dropping 7 seconds off my time at once,” Van Pelt said on breaking the record. “But, the exciting thing about track is every race is different so everything is always a surprise. I know I can run faster and I hope I can qualify for regionals this season. It will be exciting to see when championship season comes.” Batt-Doyle made her collegiate debut in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. She finished eighth but set a new school record time of 10:19.54. She beat the program record by 55 seconds, which was set in 2012. Schulz finished in 12th place in the 800-meter run with a new personal-best time of 2:09.91, which was the fifth fastest in the history of the program. Freshman Nyla Woods earned third place and had a new personal best toss of 55.03 meters in the women’s hammer throw. Woods’ toss was the fifth best mark in school history. She arrived at the event ranking third in the Big East. Now, she is four centimeters behind Big East Champion Danette Hinton for fourth place on the school’s all-time hammer throw list. Senior Natasha Amazan also set a personal best mark with a throw of 52.31 meters for sixth place and sophomore Ann Dagrin took eighth place with a toss of 51.68 meters. On Saturday, the final day at Larry Ellis Invitational, the women’s track and field continued to show their dominance. Junior Pariis Garcia finished third in the first heat and third overall in the 400-meter dash, with a new personal
best time of 54.29 seconds, which was the eighth best finish in school history. Junior Raquel Ricketts took sixth place with a seasonal best time of 55.06 seconds and senior Nastasya Rodriquez claimed ninth with a personal best time of 56.00. “Our sprinters picked up where we left off last night, posting personal and seasonal best efforts along with Big East leading performances and ECAC Championships qualifying marks,” coach Jim Hurt said. “As the weather warms up so will our performances, so we look forward to producing some hot marks next week at the Penn Relays.” Garcia also participated in the 200-meter dash and finished eighth overall with a personal best time of 24.48 seconds. Senior LaTasha Collins ran a seasonal best time of 24.76 seconds for 11th overall, sophomore Shenika King finished 14th overall in 24.80 seconds, and freshman Maya Stephens came in 15th with a personal best time of 24.85 seconds. Also, Ricketts had a seasonal-best time of 24.89 for 18th place. Freshman Chenoa Sebastian set a personal best time of 14.52 seconds in the preliminaries of the 100-meter hurdles to take 10th. Sophomore Christine Oguledo ran in the 400-meter hurdles and had a personal best time of 1:03.08, which was one second off of the 10th all-time performance in the history of the program. Collins finished eighth in 12.20 seconds in the preliminary round of the 100-meter dash. The team of Collins, King, Schwan and Stephens had a sea-
sonal best of 46.97 seconds for fourth place in the 4x100 meter relay. Freshman Erica Graham competing in long jump taking 16th with a mark of 4.83 meters. Buchanan had a personal best in the triple jump with 11.18 meters for 13th . The Red Storm is set to travel to Philadelphia for the Penn Relays on April 23 to the 25.
PHOTO/ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Stephenie Van Pelt broke a 31-year-old St. John’s record in the outdoor 1,500-meter event with a time of 4:27.10.
A running legacy: Pariis Garcia PG. 15
SPORTS APRIL 22 2015 | VOLUME 93, ISSUE 02 |
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