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WHAT’S INSIDE News......................2-5 Entertainment....15-17 Editorials...............6-7 Comics.....................19 Features...............9-10 Sports.................21-24
Obama Inauguration The inauguration of the 44th president brings the Queens campus together to watch the historical moment. NEWS page 3
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Directory
Managing Board LXXXV
GREGORY LEPORATI, Editor-in-Chief CHRISTINA HEISER, Managing Editor EVERTON BAILEY News Editor
ANTHONY MORREALE
MATT CHOQUETTE
Sports Editor
Chief Copy Editor
PASQUALE PASSARELLA LAURA AMATO
ELIZABETH JALONSCHI
Editorial Page Editor Photo Editor
General Manager
PATRICE BENDIG
JONNATHAN COLEMAN SARA RHODES
Features Editor
Online Editor
CAITLYN NOLAN
ZACH DAVINO
EntertainmentEditor Art Director
Layout Editor ELLEN CAREY Advisor
Business (718) 9906576 Advertising 990-6756 Editorial Board 990-6444
Features 990-6445 Letters 990-6445 News 990-6444 Sports 990-6444
Special thanks to Richard Rex Thomas for assisting in the design of The TORCH
Spring Movies Watchmen One of the most anticipated movies this spring is Watchmen. Check out Inferno’s guide to other must see flicks.
Inferno pg. 16
Features Chicken Cordon Bleu You are in for a treat if you make this easy take on a classic recipe.
Features pg. 10
Men’s Basketball Quiet Storm
NEWS
After pulling a surprising upset win over then-no. 7 Notre Dame, the St. John’s Men’s Basketball team have been on a three-game losing streak.
Sports pg. 22
OPINION PG. 7
21 Jan. 2008
MONTGORIS
Illiteracy rates worsening in U.S. CHRIS DAVIES From U-Wire
The TORCH
torchonline.com
TORCH PHOTO/LAURA AMATO
A look at the recently constructed arch at the entrance of Jack Kaiser Stadium. The baseball field’s entrance area was completed during the winter break, in time for the start of baseball season this spring.
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Earlier this month, the U.S. Education Department released statistics stating that more than 32 million, or about 14 percent of Americans, are illiterate. The Mary and Jean Borg Center for Reading and Literacy at Illinois State University hopes to correct such oversights in education. Linda Wedwick, director of the center, explained the kinds of programs that they offer, and how they make their services accessible. “Currently we have many outreach programs within the community. We contact all the principals in the area with information about our services. They pass this along to the teachers, who then pass it along to parents,” she said. “We have undergrad and graduate students that are matched up with students who need help. These tutors meet with students at the Bloomington Cultural Center to help the parents by giving them a more accessible
location.” Besides offering tutoring, the center also has a lending library that contains many tools for parents and teachers to work with children to improve their reading skills. Wedwick explained that these resources are available upon request. According to a recent report, illiteracy can be a burden upon the economy, and in the last year it may have cost businesses $60 billion in lost productivity and health and safety issues. Illinois State University sophomore marketing major Craig Nuzzo was alarmed at such a high illiteracy rate among Americans. “It’s a scary thought that one in seven people may not be able to read street signs or simple directions. It’s something I take for granted every day I suppose,” he said. However, with programs such as the Literacy Center working within the community to stamp out illiteracy, the problem may become a thing of the past. “The key is to help parents and teachers,” Wedwick said. “...Helping parents and teachers helps kids, and that is what’s important.”
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TORCH PHOTO/LAURA AMATO
Members of the St. John’s community react while watching President Barack Obama’s inaugural address Tuesday afternoon in the Carnesecca Arena lobby. The viewing party was one of two events on the Queens campus showcasing the 44th president’s inauguration. The law school also hosted a viewing in the Moot Courtroom.
SJU gathers to watch historic inauguration CHRISTINA HEISER Managing Editor
NEWS
21 Jan. 2009 PHOTO COURTESY OF LA TIMES
Barack Obama, the nation’s first African American Commander-in-chief, takes his oath of office before his wife, his two children and an estimated two million spectators in Washington, D.C. ,Tuesday afternoon. are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America - they will be met. On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.” Sciame noted that he was happy with the student turnout at the event. “It was a hard day since school did not start yet, but I am proud of the turnout,” he said. Roloson was also pleased with
the turnout. “I plan to keep people involved even though the presidential election is over,” he added.
Additional reporting by Everton Bailey and Patrice Bendig
torchonline.com
said. Nick Roloson, president of College Democrats felt moved watching the inauguration at St. John’s. “I don’t know what to feel right now,” he said. I am so proud of our country.” During his inaugural address, Obama, who was sworn in using the same Bible that President Abraham Lincoln used during his inauguration in 1861, stated, “Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they
The TORCH
Close to 100 students, faculty members and administrators eagerly gathered in the lobby of Carnesecca Arena to watch the historic inauguration of the 44th president of the United States, Barack Obama. The viewing party was held by Participate in ’08, a collaboration between College Democrats, College Republicans, Student Government and administration. Participate in ‘08 has held events throughout the Fall Semester to rally students to register to vote and to vote on Election Day. “This viewing of the inauguration is the culmination of everything,” said Dominic Scianna, assistant vice president of Media Relations. “This is a wonderful historic event. This is a great, fitting end to the election, and we would like to see the youth continue their participation.” Joseph Sciame, vice president of Community Relations, shared similar feelings. “This is a proud day in America,” he said. “We are the beneficiaries of this day.” Students could also watch the inauguration on Jan. 20 in the Moot Courtroom in Belson Hall from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. When Obama took the presidential oath, the crowd erupted in applause and a few students started crying. “I wanted to watch this because it is an historic event,” said Deanna Scinto, a sixth-year pharmacy student. Gerard Murell, an international student from Trinidad and Tobago, said that he “wanted to watch this in a group to feel the experience.” “In my country we have already had black leaders, so at first I could not fully appreciate this event, but by watching people’s reactions I am starting to,” he
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New service aims to ‘Live’n up SJU e-mails EVERTON BAILEY News Editor St. John’s has officially made the transition to Microsoft Live@edu, a new e-mail service implemented to offer enhanced electronic messaging services and capabilities. According to Ken Mahlmeister, Information Technology’s executive director for User Services, 11,170 students have activated their new e-mail account as of the morning of Jan. 20. IT officials said they are happy with the new service, which was launched on Jan. 6. The new student e-mail system offers 10 GB of space, an increase from the 50 MB limit on the old system, improved spam control and a 25 GB SkyDrive, a feature that acts as a virtual hard drive to store and share files. Users can also configure their cell phones with the system and read e-mails from their mobile devices. “We are pleased and pretty excited about the new program,” said Joseph
Tufano, vice president for Information Technology. “We’ve been working with SGI and other students to get feedback and, so far, the feedback has been positive.” Tufano mentioned the IT department has not experienced any major problems thus far with the new Live@edu system and said he felt it was an upgrade over the previous system. “With the old program, there was limited space, no real spam filter and other restrictions and this new program is an improvement in all those areas,” he said. “It’s a world of difference.” According to IT officials, all students have been transferred to the new system, but in order to access their e-mails they have to activate the account. However, despite all students being transferred to the new service, e-mails still on the previous system will remain available for students, who can then forward these messages to their new account. “We didn’t want to completely do away with the old system because we
know students may have important emails in Dec. that they still may need, so they will have access to them for at least the entire Spring Semester,” said Tufano. Some students said they find the new system to be an improvement. “I really like it,” said senior Andrew Conti. “The interface is a lot cleaner and there are things you can do with this system that you couldn’t do with the old one.” Freshman Imani Ladson said she had mixed feelings on the new changes. “It’s ok,” she said. “I had to go back to get my contacts from my old e-mail which was annoying.” Other students said they have not found the switch to be very enjoyable. “I think it’s complicated,” said freshman Katrina Smith. “I wish we could have gotten a choice as to which service we could use.” In an effort to help ease the transition to the new e-mail for students like Smith, a FAQ and “Tip of the Week” feature have been included on St. John’s Central.
This week’s tip is how to operate the junk mail filter. “When we receive multiple inquiries on how to do something or navigate a certain new feature, we put it up as a tip of the week, so hopefully that will help everyone adjust to the new system,” said Gary Young, associate director for Information Technology. Overall, Tufano said the new Live@edu service will improve digital interactions among students. “I think it improves student communication,” he said. “It will allow better and improved collaboration between students, professors and student social groups.”
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Library to offer students 24-hour access to study space CHRISTINA HEISER Managing Editor
“
Sometimes, students study better in an environment outside of the dorms and in an area that is conducive to learning.
”
-Theresa Maylone
CPS administrator passes away during winter break EVERTON BAILEY A St. John’s College of Professional Studies Assistant Dean died on Jan. 12 after succumbing to a rare and deadly disease. Pamela Dalton, 55, died of progressive multifocal leukoencephalitis (PML), an
daughters. “Dean Dalton was an absolutely outstanding advising dean,” said Kathleen Voute MacDonald, dean for the College of Professional Studies. “We are all deeply saddened by her passing.” Aside from working in CPS, Dalton spent almost 20 years as an employee of St. John’s. She
also worked in the Dean’s Office at the Peter J. Tobin College of Business and the Registrar’s Office. “She was small in stature but she had a big heart,” said Ann Marie Ruzicka, an assistant dean for CPS. “She was great with students, she fought fiercely to get them into classes they needed and was very devoted to
them.” Ruzicka, who worked with Dalton for six years, called her “a good friend.” “She was a good person, a very strong women and she is terribly missed,” said Ruzicka. Dalton’s passing comes two months after Mary C. Daly, Esq., dean of the St. John’s School of Law died from cancer.
torchonline.com
News Editor
uncommon illness that affects the brain. A funeral service was held Jan. 15 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Queens Village. According to her colleagues, Dalton was not diagnosed by doctors with PML until a few days before she died. She is survived by her husband, Jim, and two
The TORCH
Additional reporting by Patrice Bending
21 Jan. 2009
exams come around, this will be another option of quiet study space students can use,” she said. Some students said that they had not heard about the study lounge’s new hours, but that they may make use of it during the semester. “I didn’t hear about it,” said Kaitlyn Marinella, a junior. “I might take advantage of it.” Catharine Corrigan, a junior, also had not heard about the new service, but she said “it will be easier for students who want to form study groups.”
NEWS
TORCH PHOTO/LAURA AMATO
Starting today, students will be granted 24-hour access to the library’s first floor study lounge.
In an effort to offer more study space options for students, the library will grant 24-hour access to the quiet study lounge on the first floor. The service begins on Wednesday, Jan. 21, and according to Theresa Maylone, University librarian, the idea to keep the quiet study lounge (located to the right of the café) open 24 hours, 7 days a week, has been tossed around since the library renovations were taking place over the summer. “Many other university libraries have study space with 24-hour access for students and the reason why we weren’t able to do it here at St. John’s before was due to lack of physical space,” Maylone said. “So it wasn’t that we were reluctant to do this before, it’s just that we wanted to make sure we could provide the adequate service needed to make this succeed.” However, she explained that there is still “a substantial concern about security” because “it is very easy to get onto the other floors and onto the elevators.” Maylone mentioned the lounge is for the use of studying only. “This is not going to be a lounge or hangout spot,” she said. “This will be a quiet study area reserved for students in need of after-hours studying.” Maylone said that keeping the quiet study lounge open for 24 hours a day will benefit students. “Sometimes, students study better in an environment outside of the dorms and in an area that is conducive to learning,” she said. “With this added feature, students will now have the option of using this space for study at all times. We want to do everything we can to support the traditional and non-traditional student.”
Maylone acknowledged that there has not been a “vast number of students who have requested this improvement,” but that this comes “in response to persistent requests for such a service over a long period of time.” “We realize this may take some time to catch on, for example, we do not anticipate an overwhelming number of students using the service right away but we know when
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Editorial Board LXXXVI GREGORY LEPORATI Editor-in-Chief
Illustrator’s Corner:
CHRISTINA HEISER Managing Editor EVERTON BAILEY News Editor PASQUALE PASSARELLA Editorial Page Editor
FLAMES OF THE TORCH
torchonline.com
The TORCH
21 Jan. 2009
OPINION
Just the beginning President Barack Obama’s historic rise to the presidency, from its beginnings in the Democratic primaries to his decisive victory in the 2008 presidential election, has been marked by an enthusiasm and energy that only increased in momentum as the days and weeks passed. When the results of the election were announced on the night of Nov. 4, the reaction was astounding. People ran out into streets, screaming and crying in pure jubilation over Obama’s victory. Cell phone signals were blocked by the sheer number of phone calls being made to share the news and celebrate with distant friends and family. On the St. John’s campus, the atmosphere was simply electrifying. Students poured out from the dormitories to form a huge crowd in celebration on the quads, in front of Donovan Hall, and on the Great Lawn. Students then filed into an already standing-room-only viewing party in Council Hall in order to watch Obama’s victory speech. Some might think that this was the end of the story, that all those who gave their energy and their vote in support of Barack Obama have done their part and can now sit back to reap the benefits. With Barack Obama in the White House, the country should begin to right itself, the economy should bounce back, and the standing of the U.S. in the world stage should improve. Unfortunately, that is not a foregone conclusion. Now that Obama is President, there is an even greater need for the support and energy of every American, whether or not they voted Democrat in Nov. For those who voted for Barack Obama, his win is not a one-step solution to the nation’s woes. Those Americans who wished the election had gone another way should know that Obama’s entry to the White House does not mean the end of the country, either. What happens in the next four years will determine whether the United States continues to fall or if it can rise from the ashes of the economic decline and wars abroad.
As Barack Obama has said in his speeches time and again, the true test of the nation is how we face these grave issues. The inauguration on Tuesday proved to be a great start for the next four years. The intensity that the record-setting approximately two million attendees of the inauguration brought with them to Washington, D.C., in addition to the countless millions of viewers who took time out of work or school to watch the ceremony on television, show that the momentum that brought Barack Obama into office has not died just yet. Again, St. John’s was a microcosm of the extraordinary spirit associated with Obama’s presidency. A viewing party of approximately 100 students, staff, and administrators came together to watch Barack Obama take the oath of office and deliver his inaugural address. Americans must realize that this is not the end of their involvement. After the jubilation of Obama’s entrance to the White House passes, it will be time to begin the bitter work of getting the economy back on track, restoring the standing of the U.S. in the world, bringing the war in Iraq to a close, and dealing with the ever-present threats to the nation’s safety. These problems cannot and will not be solved overnight. Plans must be enacted, difficult choices must be made, and positive action must be taken. While this is ultimately the task of our elected officials, the nation as a whole must stand behind them. “A New Birth of Freedom” was the theme of Barack Obama’s inauguration, marking the 300th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. This makes a famous line from Lincoln’s acceptance speech for the 1858 Illinois senate primaries seem even more appropriate: “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” This is no longer the time to point fingers or to draw lines dividing the nation over issues of race, religion, or party affiliation. No plan to fix the nation can succeed without a united nation to follow it.
EDITORIAL POLICY Editorials are the opinions of the Editorial Board of The TORCH. Columns are the opinions of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of The TORCH. Opin-
ions expressed in editorials, columns, letters or cartoons are not necessarily those of the student body, faculty or administrations of St. John’s University.
TO CONTRIBUTE Mail letters to: The TORCH Letters, St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Pkwy, Jamaica, NY 11439 E-mail letters to: torcheditorials@gmail.com
Please include your full name, year, and college (or department). Letters have a limit of 350 words and may be edited for content, grammar, or space. Unverifiable or anonymous letters will not be published. All letters are subject to the approval of the Editorial Board of The TORCH.
TORCH CARTOON/KATRIN ASTARITA
Letters to the Editor To the Editor: I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the students who posted positive messages and high number ratings onto RateMyProfessors.com. Without, you, I would not have achieved the number two national ranking. It was wonderful that I learned the good news from a student, Christina Heiser, the Torch Managing Editor. My initial reaction to this news was disbelief and shock that I was ranked number 2 out of over a million faculty. This feeling quickly gave way to happiness on my part,
and gratitude to my students. Even prior to the rankings, I feel like a winner to have the privilege to teach amazing young people and work with my outstanding colleagues at St. John’s University. As a former St. John’s University student, I can tell you that your education prepares you to succeed! Joyce Boland-DeVito, Esq. Professor of Business Law College of Professional Studies St. John’s University
Balancing the budget
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Academics should not be the first to suffer from the ailing economy The final day of class last semester on the Queens Campus ended with a bang – an overwhelming, elaborate, and perhaps even ostentatious bang. Of course, I’m talking about the University Tree Lighting Ceremony and Fireworks Show on the Great Lawn, the usual conclusion to the annual Winter Carnival. And this year’s event went above and beyond any others I’ve seen on campus, providing an enormous light show that flashed across St. Augustine Hall, in addition to the typical fireworks display and Christmas lights strung around campus. But while the Tree Lighting Ceremony was certainly an impressive moment in St. John’s history, I couldn’t help but ask myself a question I’m sure others wondered: just how much did this all cost? According to Student Government, Inc. President Dana Lezama, the carnival “probably cost around $20,000 more” than the previous year’s. She also told me that the light show – in addition to other improvements, like a new sound system – ran around $30,000 alone. SGI spearheaded the event, spending a great deal of its own money on the display, while other on-campus groups, such as the Office of Facilities, the Office of the President, and Campus Activities, also contributed money and support. Though I could not obtain a concrete number on how much the entire carnival cost, I’d wager it was in the tens of thousands, most likely more than $40,000. That number, given the economic re-
cession and the way it has and will continue to impact the University, left me a bit baffled. Just days prior to the start of the annual Winter Carnival, I had heard rumors that St. John’s was considering widesweeping budget cuts and hiring freezes in light of the economic crisis. Though these rumors have proven to be false, I’ve learned that the school undoubtedly is taking measures to watch its economic standing. According to University Provost Dr. Julia Upton, St. John’s is urging its departments to keep a tight lid on their budgets, though explicitly stated budget cuts are not being implemented. “We have asked the departments to go through their budgets and return funds that are not essential so we can use them for aid to students,” Dr. Upton told a TORCH reporter. “For example, if a department prints a five-page newsletter every semester, maybe they can print a three-page news-
letter,” she said. Dr. Upton added that there is “currently no hiring freeze,” but that new hires must go through more filters now than in the past. “If a department wants to hire a new person, it goes through an extra level of review,” she said. “So, for example, instead of a dean approving a hire, it’ll be the dean and the provost approving the hire.” She added, “Say a department has three secretaries and one retires, We’ll decide to not replace the retired secretary because there are still two secretaries. But if there is only one secretary and that person leaves, we’ll have to replace them. So it’s all based on need.” Though the University is not using explicit language like “budget cuts” or “hiring freeze,” Dr. Upton’s words show that St. John’s is being careful with its money. So, the question begs to be asked: how could the University allow such an extravagant Winter Carnival, which likely cost upwards of $40,000, to take place on campus, but now ask departments to stop spending their money on whatever is “not essential?” If I were a department chair, I’d probably be more than a bit upset. Now don’t get me wrong – I’m not saying there should not have been a Winter Carnival, nor am I trying to take away from the tremendous effort of SGI and President Lezama to organize such a fantastic event. And, in all likelihood,
an event that had been in the works for months probably could not have been altered too dramatically after the economic recession hit anyway. But to hear that the school would allow such a tremendously expensive oncampus display, yet still ask academic departments to re-examine where they have been spending their money, is a clear warning for future cases. In this economic recession, St. John’s needs to be careful where it spends its money. While the Winter Carnival’s expensive additions this past year proved entertaining, could some of that money have been used to ensure that academic departments would not have to cut certain expenditures from their budgets? An answer to that question, in all honesty, is unnecessary. But, at the very least, let the example serve as a reminder to the University to continue to make very careful economic decisions as the year progresses. We can only hope that rumors of explicitly stated departmental budget cuts and hiring freezes will remain just that – rumors. But, if there ever are any budget cuts, and academics are hindered in any way, then the tens of thousands of dollars spent on the Winter Carnival will take on a whole new importance. Gregory Leporati is a senior English major. He can be reached at: torcheic@gmail.com
Chartwells could use some resolutions for the new year JUSTIN THRIFT Staff Writer
21 Jan. 2009
STUDENTSPARKS
Hall. As all campus residents can attest to, the quality, the substance, and the variety of food at Montgoris declines dramatically in between the structured lunch and dinner hours. This decline is a most inopportune reality for a college student whose schedule does not adhere to a rigid and routine dietary schedule. The same amount and variety of food should be available for students in the mid-afternoon just as it is at dinner time, especially if the price of these “off-hour” times remains the same. Why should students pay full meal price when they aren’t receiving full meal options in return? Surely, students deserve a full quality lunch between afternoon classes, even if it is at an unconventional time. Lastly, continuing on the topic of convenience, Montgoris and Marillac are simply not open late enough to fully accommodate residents’ needs. In addition to closing before 8:30 p.m. on weeknights, Montgoris closes even earlier on weekend evenings and opens later in the mornings. Montgoris being the main resident dining hall should be open more to its dependent resident students, while Marillac too needs to remain open for business longer during the weekend hours. With the welcoming of a new calendar year, Chartwells would do well to continue its improvement of on-campus dining. As we prepare for the Spring Semester, what better time to start than now?
OP-ED
The start of the Spring Semester marks a full year since Chartwells took over the food services at St. John’s. During this time under Chartwells’ reign, certain changes have been instituted to increase student convenience. For example, the new interior design of Montgoris Dining Hall created a more welcoming dining environment. More flexible meal options are available thanks to meal exchanges at Marillac Food Court. And finally, possibly the most notable change under Chartwells’ management, is the introduction of a brand new late night dining program which makes it possible for students to buy hot food on weeknights after Montgoris has closed. But it is important to note the shortcomings of Chartwells’ services. It is fair to say that on-campus dining is still far from perfect. It is with a constructive spirit that I have prepared a list of New Year’s resolutions for the Chartwells team. First, the abolition of all “tray-less” days should be considered strongly by the Chartwells management. These days are a source of much inconvenience for students. There are signs plastered all over Montgoris dem-
onstrating the need to conserve water and thwart student waste; however, there are easier ways to conserve resources that do not include decreasing the number of weekly washed trays. For example, let there be “biodegradable paper plate days” in place of tray-less days – an improvement that would unquestionably save water and simultaneously not impose an inconvenience on the student diner. It must be realized by Chartwells that dining tray-less at a buffet style establishment is not only nonsensical, it is incredibly difficult. Second, the new Late Night Dining program must be further developed. There are faults with the service that can easily be mended. For example, the items that are listed on the menu are sometimes out of stock and not available for purchase. This is especially annoying given that the service is only available a few days each week. This service would be immensely strengthened if the menu was consistently supported by food availability and the days of operation extended through the weekend. Surely the most reliable way to build a consistent student clientele is to establish a confidence in students that menu items will in fact be available when they wish to purchase them. No late night dining service will thrive until such a trust is instilled in the resident community. In addition to these resolutions, I continue to call for increased student convenience at Montgoris Dining
COMPILED BY LAURA AMATO
I think it’s a good thing because some people have a hard time concentrating in their suites. It’s good to change scenery.
It’s awesome. I usually don’t start studying until eleven. Now I have a place to go.
Andrew Mozer
Tiffany Berrios
Nick Stapelito
torchonline.com
It’s a good idea because there wasn’t any place to study on campus after Montgoris closes.
The TORCH
How do you feel about the new 24/7 quiet study hours in the library?
Think Outside...
Features
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Section
TORCH ILLUSTRATION/ KERI DODGE
Dollar decisions PATRICE BENDIG Features Editor
The TORCH
torchonline.com
The aid is estimated based on your expected family contribution, year in school, enrollment status and the cost of attendance at the school. Depending on all of the factors listed previously, the amount given by the government may not be enough to cover all of your expenses. The hunt for loans is similar to the search for colleges: finding the best way to finance in order to fit your needs. Federal Stafford loans are student loans that carry 6.8 percent interest. The amount that can be borrowed a year can increase annually, starting at $3,500 for the first year. Another type of loan that is available to certain students is called the Federal Plus Loan. This loan is only available to guardians of dependent undergraduate students. Paying back loans can be held off for up to three years in certain circumstances, and the loan is forgiven if the parent borrower dies, or suffers a permanent total disability. Private loans are also available, and allow students to take out larger sums of money. While it is helpful to be able to take out more money to cover living expenses, there are also some drawbacks. While other loans come with fixed interest rates, private lenders tend to have interest rates that vary from year to year. A college education is an invaluable tool that can help propel you into the work force at full speed, and is a necessity in the 21st century, no matter what the price tag is.
21 Jan. 2009
The college application process is long, tedious and at times, painful. First, you have to find the right match for your academic needs. Next, you have to fill out applications, get recommendations and print out copies of your transcripts. But while being accepted may seem like the end of the journey, there is another issue that needs to be settled: how are you going to afford the tuition, especially in a time of economic recession? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in Dec. 2008, the unemployment rate jumped from 6.8 to 7.2 percent, estimating more than 11.1 million people were currently without jobs. The problems that go hand in hand with this situation are how people are going to pay for their rent, keep up with medical bills, and even put food on the table. Now more than ever, tuition and financial aid play a huge part in many people’s decision to attend college, or even stay in school. State schools and community colleges have a lower cost in tuition, compared to private universities. The difference can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the school. For many students, this plays a big part in choosing a college, and in some cases even staying at a college. Stony Brook University, a New York state college located on Long Island, costs $15,252.00 to attended as a full time, undergraduate student for in state residents.
University of Albany, another state college located in upstate New York, costs $15,858 including tuition, fees and room and board for undergraduate students taking 12 or more credits, who live in the state. Somti Ebi, a transfer student from The University of Houston, understands the difference in prices betwee private and public institutions. “ St. John’s is more expensive than my old University, where tuition was under $10,000,” she said. “Scholarships that I received did nothing to help lower the price of attendance here” . Private schools tend to have a heavier price tag connected to their services. St. John’s University is a four- year private university, with tuition for a full time student at $28,000 a year. This does not include room and board (ranging from $6,700 to $9,600), and various fees. Nina Brenis, a sophomore, transferred from Hunter College, which is a CUNY school, to St. John’s this semester. “I feel that it is worth the extra money to attend St. John’s” she said. “ It offers a better faculty, professors and overall education.” In a time where job security is uncertain, students may have to adjust how they finance their education due to an unforeseen turn of events. While all of these numbers can be overwhelming, there are ways to get a grasp on financing your college education. The first step is figuring out how much aid you are eligible for from the government. Start by filling out the Free Application For Student Aid, more commonly known as FAFSA.
FEATURES
Students weigh in on the price of tuition
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Dear Devil’s Advocate, I live in a house with four other people. One of my roommates has a problem and I was wondering if you could give me some advice on how to help him deal with it. This guy, let’s call him Larry, is addicted to online poker. It started out innocently enough. Larry just wanted to try it out and played a few hands. A week later, he was hooked. He spends at least five hours a day playing poker. He skips class and sometimes forgets to shower and eat. It’s really affecting his mood, too. Some days he will be all happy and joke around with all of us. Other days he will always be angry and yelling. Lately, there has been more angry days than happy days. I am afraid he is going to lose all his money. What should I do to help him? Sincerely,
to change your ways. In the book, Fight Club, Chuck Palahniuk says, “It’s only after you have lost everything, that you are free to do anything.” So maybe, Larry won’t be able to change until he hits rock bottom and loses everything. Maybe if he had something else to focus his time and energy on, his gambling problem would change. Invite him to go out with your roommates. Offer him to join your intramural basketball team, or a club you’re a member of. Hopefully once he meets real people, and has a positive experience with the outside world, online gambling will be a thing of the past. If he keeps on acting like a jerk and sending a negative vibe throughout the house, give him an ultimatum: give up the online betting or leave the house. Explain that it has changed him, and it really annoys everyone in the house. If he is a real friend, then he’ll clean his act up. If not, then he is going to be losing something more valuable than a poker game.
Fretting Fred
Sincerely, Devil’s Advocate
Dear Fred,
FEATURES
I, too, know what it feels like to have a friend succumb to the dangers of gambling. My best friend lost all his money, his house, and his girlfriend when he bet against the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls in the 1996 NBA Finals. I don’t know what possessed him to think that Gary Payton and the Seattle Supersonics could defeat Michael Jordan and the 72-10 Bulls. It all turned out for the best though, because after that loss he never gambled again. Sometimes it takes a monumental loss to be able
Dear Devil’s Advocate, It’s that time of year. The beginning of the spring semester always brings with it one of the most annoying phenomena in the world. Of course I am talking about the New Year’s resolution crowd at the gym. Every January, the amount of people that go to the gym increases tenfold for about a month. The line to get on a treadmill is 45 minutes long. The newcomers don’t put the weights back where they belong and they don’t wipe their sweat off the machines when they are done.
21 Jan. 2009 The TORCH
Sincerely, Angry Andrew
Dear Angry Andrew, Well, sir, aren’t you special. I happen to be one of those New Year’s resolution newcomers to the gym and you have offended me extremely deeply! The gym is not your own private sanctuary. It is a place that anyone can go and work out, even if it is just for a month. You do not have to be all high and mighty about the situation. Think back to when you first went to the gym. You weren’t familiar with gym etiquette. You didn’t know it was rude not to put your weights back or realize that everybody in the gym was offended when there was still sweat left on your treadmill. So, maybe the cure to all your problems is just to try to be a little more understanding. If you see someone who isn’t following gym etiquette, then politely explain to them that nobody wants to work out in a sea of their perspiration. Believe me, they will get the hint and be so embarrassed that they’ll never do it again. Sincerely, Devil’s Advocate
Cordon-bleu with a catch JACKIE GENOVESE Staff Writer
What You’ll Need: -6 thin-sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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I know there’s probably nothing you can do about it, but do you think you could give me some ideas about how to deal with the frustration that the New Year’s resolution crowd causes me? I mean, I think I might snap and punch someone in the face if I have to sit down on one more bicycle seat that is soaked in another person’s sweat.
Carrie Bradshaw of Sex and the City once said, “The only thing I’ve ever successfully made in the kitchen is a mess…and several small fires.” I’m sure that people like me – aka the culinary challenged – can definitely identify with Carrie on that one. Now that you get the idea, let me tell you what I can make in the kitchen (besides what is mentioned above). These chicken cordon-bleu cutlets are a dish that is great for people who want to experiment in the kitchen, but are not experts at it. As a busy student on the go, not all of us have time to plan out a nice sit-down meal. But sometimes, a burger from Burger King just won’t fill you up like a home-cooked meal. With winter now upon us, there is nothing like a warm meal at the end of a long day of school and work to bring a smile to your face. It would be nice to have the opportunity to sit down with your family or roommates and discuss the events that happened during the day. Friends and family will love eating this delicious meal, and will beg you to bring it to the next get together. Although these easy chicken cordon-bleu cutlets are made with minimal ingredients and minimal effort, it serves up maximum taste!
-2 eggs -2 cups bread crumbs -6 slices of ham (or prosciutto if you prefer) -6 slices Gruyère cheese -Extra virgin olive oil (to coat the pan) -Toothpicks
What To Do: - Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease a cooking pan or cookie sheet with olive oil. - Beat eggs and pour in a shallow bowl. Pour bread crumbs in a separate shallow bowl. - After chicken is clean (use gloves if you don’t like handling the meat), coat each chicken breast in the egg, and follow with a coat of bread crumbs. Place on a plate and set aside. - Take each piece of chicken breast and top it with a slice of ham and a slice of cheese. Roll the chicken breast widthwise so that the ham and cheese are on the inside. Secure with 2-3 toothpicks. - Place each rolled-up breast on the pan, and bake for about 18 minutes until chicken is crispy.
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ENTERTAINMENT
21 Jan. 2009
The TORCH
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SP S P RI N NG G M MOV OVIIE E P RE VIE V IE W PG 16
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New Twist on Slasher Films JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINE’S DAY, MY BLOODY VALENTINE PROMISES THRILL-SEEKING AUDIENCES LOTS OF GORE
DANE ROBINSON Staff Writer MY BLOODY VALENTINE-
OUT OF 4 STARS
I
n the ‘80s, slasher films were at an all-time high, and their popularity was even higher. There was Michael Myers’ terrorizing of Haddonfield, Jason Vorhees reeking havoc at Camp Crystal Lake, and Freddy Kruger killing us in our dreams. Now more than 25 years later, My Bloody Valentine introduces a whole new twist on horror movies, allowing gore-hungry movie-goers to experience all the blood, gore, and nudity that make a slasher film good, but in 3D. The film begins with a loosely told story of a mineshaft incident in the town of Harmony, where five miners were killed due to an inexperienced worker’s accident. This brings us into the story of how our gas mask-wearing killer has come about. We find out that the only survivor of the incident was Harry Warden, who went into a permanent coma, and now seemingly wants revenge. One year later, on Valentine’s Day, he wakes up and brutally murders 22 people with a pickaxe before being killed and buried by the two senior police men that knew the story of the case. Now, in the present, Tom Harmony, the miner who caused the accident, returns to town to sell the mine. Wherever he
goes, the incident follows him, whether it is violence brought upon him from the townspeople or the war within himself that is slowly eating away at him. Tom also has some other skeletons in his closet, like feelings for his ex-girlfriend Sarah, who is now married to the town sherriff, Axel. Axel, meanwhiule, thinks Tom may know a little more about the murders than he leads on. After the events of one evening, where a man dressed in the same garb as the killer brutally murders two people at a hotel, Tom, Sarah and Axel think that Harry Warden may have returned from the dead. By using the modern 3D technology that has become popular in movie theaters over the last couple of years, My Bloody Valentine gives horror fans an experience like none other. Yes, it may be a gimmick, but that only adds to the storyline that seems to keep your attention and makes you wonder about the killer’s identity until the final showdown where he is revealed. Jamie King, alongside some other small-time actors, tries his hardest to make the film’s script endearing and compelling, while avoiding the overacting that has become a staple in most modern horror movies. Chock full of blood and body parts, My Bloody Valentine will definitely catch the attention of B-movie and slasher film fans, as well as shock and scare thrill seekers who are looking for a good midnight movie.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROTTENTOMATOES.COM
Ray of Hope For Moviegoers AUDIENCES CAN EXPECT MOVIES TO BE RELEASED THIS SPRING THAT DON’T INVOLVE MALL COPS OR DOG HOTELS Watchmen Who watches the Watchmen? We will be, ALEX QUEVEDO
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The TORCH
21 Jan. 2009
ENTERTAINMENT
Staff Writer
P
aul Blart: Mall Cop, Hotel for Dogs, The Unborn, Bride Wars: these movies may have their two or three fans (no offense to those), but for the most part, they are utter garbage. And after seeing films such as Slumdog Millionaire, Gran Torino, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Frost/Nixon, it is a wonder why movies like Paul Blart would even want to be released. But will spring be some sort of saving grace? From the looks of things, probably not. Still, there are a few releases coming out within the next few months that have at least the slightest bit of promise. Coraline The Nightmare Before Christmas director Henry Selick is returning to stop-motion animation with this film based on author Neil Gaiman’s novella of the same name. It follows Coraline (voiced by Dakota Fanning), a young girl who goes through a mysterious door in her new home. She finds herself in an alternative world that at first seems pleasant. But when she finds herself as a prisoner of sorts, Coraline has to find her way back home. The source material has been celebrated (winning multiple awards in 2003), giving the film adaptation some promise. And considering Henry Selick did a terrific job with Nightmare, he may be the perfect man for the job. Coraline is due in theaters Feb. 6.
and thankfully, we’ll be watching it on time. After a legal dispute, Fox and Warner Brothers have settled their differences. Now, we will be able to get spring’s biggest film. Watchmen is set in an alternative 1985, where superheroes/vigilantes are the former norm, now driven into obscurity. But when a former hero is killed, continual vigilante Rorschach sets off to find the truth behind an uncovered conspiracy and brings out other former maskedmen. The source material is incredible. Alan Moore’s graphic novel is widely acclaimed as “the most celebrated graphic novel of all time.” But the heavy read includes a lot of material, so it will be interesting to see how director Zack Snyder (300) is going to fit all of it in. Watchmen is due out March 6. The Soloist Robert Downey, Jr. is going nowhere but up, and Jamie Foxx appears to be taking on more daunting roles. Downey, Jr. plays Steve Lopez, a Los Angeles journalist who stumbles upon Nathaniel Ayers (Foxx). Currently living on Skid Row, Ayers is a Julliard-trained musician who is deeply troubled. Lopez is enduring his own hardships and sees Ayers as his ticket to a comeback, befriending Ayers along the way. From the looks of things, The Soloist is Oscar-bait for both the actors and director (Atonement director Joe Wright). While this is still seeing a spring release, word says it may be pushed back later in the year to gain more Oscar draw. But for now, expect The Soloist to hit theaters on April 24.
PHOTO COURTESY OF Z.ABOUT.COM
Friday the 13th Reboots of Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Halloween have been done, so it is only suitable for Jason Voorhees to get his own treatment. As you would expect, a group of young adults uncover Camp Crystal Lake, looking to sex, booze and drug it up. Their expectations are short lived as they soon meet Jason (Derek Mears), who filmmakers have promised will be more aggressive. With the other reboots getting decent accolades, it is possible this could very well go over well enough with audiences and critics. And as long as the film slashes things up right, we won’t mind it. Wouldn’t you know it - Friday the 13th is due out Friday, Feb. 13. PHOTO COURTESY OF BLOG.OREGONLIVE.COM
PHOTO COURTESY OF EW.COM
Giving the Geeks Some Love
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INFERNO WRITER GIVES READERS A PREVIEW OF WHAT’S TO COME IN NEXT MONTH’S NEW YORK COMIC CON ALEX QUEVEDO Staff Writer
A
ward season is in full swing (were you pleased with the results of the Golden Globes?) and while superheroes and the so-called “geek universe” will not be seeing too much love at this time of the year, New York Comic Con them covered from Feb. 6-8. While not nearly as extravagant as the older, more wellknown San Diego Comic Con International (the two events are not affiliated), New York Comic Con, held each year in the Javits Center, boasts a large collection of exhibitionists in the largest pop culture convention on the East Coast. So what can you expect to see at the show next month? For starters, you will be seeing plenty of nontraditional comic-related entertainment. But on that note, the conventions have been moving towards a general pop culture emphasis. Regardless, fans of NBC’s hit Heroes and Fox’s rising Fringe will have members of their cast making appearances. Milo Ventimiglia (Peter Petrelli, Heroes) will be on hand for autographs and to promote his upcoming Top Cow book, Berserker. Fringe’s John Noble and Jasika Nicole will hold a presentation/Q&A session for fans of the show. Robot Chicken’s Seth Green will also be on hand for the event. Of course, comic fans will see some of the traditional big names, ranging from the more recent celebrities to the
“been around for years” types, including Marvel Comics Editor-in-Chief Joe Quesada, Jerry Robinson (creator of Batman nemesis, the Joker) and Joe Simon (creator of Captain America). For those who look forward to something more along the lines of art, do not fret. There will be plenty of artists on hand. In fact, more than 100 artists will fill the exhibition hall of the Javits Center. They’ll be coming from the big names (Marvel and DC), along with some of the other known companies and independents. We here at the Inferno are expecting one item to be a decent standout: the Spider-Man comic featuring (now) President Barack Obama, with an alternative collector’s edition with Obama’s face on the cover. With a retail price of $3.99, the “real” price through eBay will set you back $25 to $50. Collectors are likely to see prices around that mark at Comic Con, so be on the lookout if you need to get your Obama fix. The comic, released Jan. 14, has Peter Parker covering Obama’s inauguration. Parker spots an imposter Obama. Swinging back into his real calling, Parker saves the day as Spider-Man and thwarts a plot to disrupt the inauguration. And, for those wondering, Spidey indeed shares a fistbump with Obama. Tickets to NY Comic Con are still available, but if you do not have tickets by now, you will be stuck standing in line. Saturday (Feb. 7) will run you up the most at $40; Friday and Sunday will set you back $30 each day. For a complete list of events, exclusives and panels, check out NY Comic Con’s official web site.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SIGNONSANDIEGO.COM
Writers welcome.
The TORCH
torchonline.com
The Independent Student Newspaper of St. John’s University
21 Jan. 2009
If you have an interest, the TORCH has a role for you. Come visit us for our next meeting of the semester, on January 27 during Common Hour in the UC room 29.
ENTERTAINMENT
Photographers, graphic designers, cartoonists, editors, and businesspeople welcome too.
TORCHCOMICS 21 January 2009
Short Shorts Tim Olwell
I Can’t Draw Alex Reyes
WHERE ARE THE COMICS!?!? Illustrators/cartoonists wanted! Come to the Next Torch Meeting Tuesday, January 27 at Common Hour University Center Room 29 (Bring samples of your work and ideas!)
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Women’s hoops slide in ’09 KATIE BECKMANN Staff Writer
TORCH PHOTO/ LAURA AMATO
Joy McCorvey and the Red Storm have gone 1-3 in 2009, including a pair of losses to rivals USF and ND. chipped in seven points, three blocks, and three steals. After the loss, the Red Storm would travel to Indiana to play Big East powerhouse No. 10/4 Notre Dame. They came in hungry and ready to play. They played them to the wire, but
the Fighting Irish would show why they are nationally ranked and hold on for the win, 70-67. Yet again, McLean would set the pace for the Red Storm. She finished the game with 17 points and eight rebounds. Stevens was the only other Red Storm
player to score in double-digits as she finished the game with 11 points and five rebounds. Lindsay and senior Kelly McManmon each chipped in nine points in the loss. The Red Storm continue their road trip West Virginia next Saturday.
and take each notch in the loss column to heart. And I’m certainly as guilty as any in giving Norm what many feel is a deserved hard time. But that makes me even more responsible to congratulate the man for the biggest win of his career. It makes me even more responsible to recognize the Notre Dame win as the triumph that it truly was. One of the major questions (ok, doubts) that I had about this year’s team was the play
of their frontcourt. Last year, finding a reliable No. 5 was a huge issue for the Storm and I didn’t see a solution on the 2009 roster either. But, as exemplified in the win over the Irish, the frontcourt has been one of the strongest parts of this team this year. Instead of one player filling the role, three separate players have emerged to lead the Red Storm under the basket. Sean Evans has looked great at times and his slimmed-down frame has allowed him to become one of the Red Storm’s most important scoring options, averaging just under 10 points per game. But Rob Thomas has really played well too. And it was him, along with Justin Burrell, who
was able to finish close to Notre Dame’s basket. Dele Coker is having a much-improved 2009 season as well and leading the team with 19 blocks. Plus the emergence of Paris Horne and Kennedy from under the shadow cast by Justin Burrell’s impressive freshman campaign is another. And though the Red Storm have since slipped back into what’s become normalcy in Queens, most recently a near 20-point loss to Villanova, Jan. 3 was a rare bright spot in the Roberts Era. It was a rare day of hope and a rare opportunity to exercise our New York sportsfan pomposity, instead of our impatience.
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clutch free throws in the final 15 seconds of regulation, the Red Storm defeated then-No. 7 Notre Dame. The 71-65 win over the Fighting Irish was certainly unlikely. But its improbability isn’t even what’s most impressive about the win. Instead it’s that it didn’t even seem like a fluke. The Red Storm controlled the game and looked confident against the reigning Big East Player of the Year and one of the most powerful teams in the country. They earned and deserved the win. It’s been easy to criticize Norm in his time here because he hasn’t won anything yet. And the New York sports fan is an impatient and demanding breed. We don’t deal with losing well
The TORCH
It was quite a winter break for the St. John’s men’s basketball team. They’ve gone 2-6 since the Fall Semester came to a close in mid-December, including a 1-4 start to their Big East schedule. They’ve been outscored 373-304 in their five conference games and currently sit in 12th place in the most powerful conference in the country. It’s probably an expected standing. But not everything that happened to the Red Storm over the break was totally expected. On Jan. 3, on the floor of Madison Square Garden, Norm Roberts got the biggest win of his career. And who could’ve expected that. Led by sophomore D.J. Kennedy’s 20 points and four
21 Jan. 2009
A big win for Storm and Roberts
SPORTS
The year 2009 hasn’t been nice to the St. John’s women’s basketball team so far. After starting the 2008-2009 season with a record of 13-1, the Red Storm have gone 1-3 in 2009, including a pair of heartbreaking losses to Big East rivals USF and nationally-ranked Notre Dame. Head Coach Kim Barnes-Arico’s squad started off the new year facing off against Providence at Madison Square Garden. Behind the dominant play of senior Monique McLean, sophomore Centhya “Coco” Hart, and freshman Da’Shena Stevens, the Red Storm went on to route their Big East rival, 57-52. In the win, McLean had 28 points and six rebounds, while Hart chipped in 11 points and seven rebounds. Stevens recorded her third double-double of the year with 10 points and 11 rebounds. After the big win in Madison Square Garden, it seemed that the Red Storm were going to roll into Big East action and be a dominant force in the league. In their next match up at USF, the Red Storm put up a tough fight but fell to the Bulls in overtime, 81-71. The trio of McLean, Hart, and Stevens that would propel the Red Storm would yet again be the back bone of the team, combining for 52 points. McLean scored a season-high 30 points including a career high of five three -pointers and sent the game into overtime when she converted two free throws with one second left in the game. After the USF heartbreaker, St. John’s would host the Georgetown Hoyas. The Hoyas figured out the Red Storm’s secret and played tight defense against McLean all game. They went on to win 64-48. The senior was held scoreless in the first half and finished the game with 15 points, seven rebounds, and four steals. Sophomore point guard Sky Lindsay
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Storm struggle in Big East Villanova hands Johnnies third straight conference loss BILL SAN ANTONIO
Staff Writer After losing its last two games at the hands of ranked opponents, the St. John’s men’s basketball team wanted to play a tight defensive game Sunday and control then-No. 22 Villanova’s fantastic guard play. VILLANOVA
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But it was Villanova (14-3, 2-2) who put on a defensive clinic and couldn’t seem to miss a shot on offense. The Wildcats shot 58 percent while holding the Red Storm to an abysmal 38 percent from the field and 37 percent from the three point line. Villanova took a 19-3 lead in the game’s opening six minutes and didn’t look back, capitalizing on five Red Storm turnovers. Although Scottie Reynolds played just 20 minutes due to foul trouble, the Red Storm could not stop the likes of Dante Cunningham and Dwayne Anderson. The duo combined for 31 points in the 76-57 Villanova win. Cunningham shot 7-10 from the field. “I’ll give Villanova a lot of credit, they’re a real good basketball team,” head coach Norm Roberts said. “They did a good job pressuring us and getting us out of our offense. We let them get off to such a good start and that didn’t help.” The Wildcats gave the Red Storm fits in just trying to move the ball up the floor, causing 19 St. John’s turnovers and playing a tight half-court defense,
forcing mismatched one-on-one match-ups with the shot clock winding down. “When we turn it over, it’s not like it’s under the basket and we can hustle back and get our defense set,” Roberts told Newsday. “We’re turning it over in the open court and it’s leading to easy baskets.” D.J. Kennedy led all scorers with 18 points and also had eight rebounds. Freshman Quincy Roberts tied a career high with 14 points despite predominantly playing out of position at point guard in the absence of Malik Boothe, who is still out with a wrist injury. The loss to Villanova was the team’s third straight loss to a ranked opponent. It had also been the Red Storm’s third game in a week, and its fourth straight against a ranked opponent. The Red Storm are now 10-7 (1-4 Big East) for the season. “We kind of came out flat, kind of came out sluggish,’’ Paris Horne told the New York Post. “We should have come out with more intensity.’’ Conversely, Villanova hadn’t played a game since its Jan. 10 home loss to Louisville and welcomed the opportunity of being well rested against a tired opponent. St. John’s hasn’t won since its stunning upset of then-No. 7 Notre Dame. “I hate losing, everything is darker when you’re losing,” Justin Burrell told the Daily News. “It’s the worst feeling in the world.” Burrell finished with 13 points and seven rebounds. The Red Storm return to Carnesecca Arena on Thursday to play Cincinnati.
TORCH PHOTO/ LAURA AMATO
D.J. Kennedy led all scorers Red Storm scorers against ‘Nova with 18 points.
St. John’s gets breather from ranked foes BILL SAN ANTONIO
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The TORCH
21 Jan. 2009
Staff Writer The St. John’s men’s basketball team will get a brief break from ranked Big East opponents when they take on Cincinnati on Thursday at Carnesecca Arena, the first of two meetings this season. Cincinnati won six of its first seven games this season and started 10-3 before losing four straight games, including its first three in conference play. After beating Rutgers and DePaul, the Bearcats lost its most recent game 72-63 on the road at Providence on Monday night. The Bearcats currently stand at 12-7 (2-4). Point guard Deonta Vaughn leads a Cincinnati offense ranked 12th in the Big East in scoring with 70.1 points per game. He averages 15.5 points per game as the team’s leading scorer and will be the player the Red Storm must stop in order to have defensive success. The Red Storm will not have to contain a player of Hasheem Thabeet or Luke Harangody’s caliber in the paint, but they will be squaring off against 6-9, 255pound freshman forward Yancy Gates.
TORCH PHOTO/ LAURA AMATO
The Red Storm will likely be without Malik Boothe again against Cincy. Gates is Cincinnati’s leading rebounder Louisville’s Samardo Samuels among the with 6.1 per game and established him- ϋber-talented freshmen the Big East has self as a dominating post player Monday seen this season. night against Providence. Gates had 14 Also look for forward Mike Williams points on 6-17 shooting and grabbed sev- to make an impact offensively. Against en rebounds off the bench. Providence on Monday, Williams scored Gates joins Connecticut’s Kemba a career-high 21 points and pulled down Walker, Georgetown’s Greg Monroe, and seven rebounds. Williams averages 14.4
points per game in conference play this season, up from his regular 9.8 points per game for the season, and that is something head coach Norm Roberts has to take into account going into this game. St. John’s will likely be without point guard Malik Boothe once again, meaning a rotation of Quincy Roberts, TyShwan Edmondson, D.J. Kennedy and Paris Horne will man the point for the Red Storm. According to a report, Boothe is having pins removed following his surgery, which repaired torn thumb ligaments suffered in the Aeropostale Holiday Festival against Marist. He will be re-evaluated later in the week. The Red Storm will enter the game losers of three straight, the most recent a 76-57 road loss to Villanova on Sunday. Expect the Red Storm to get back to their early season play of fast transition basketball as a result of forced turnovers, especially after having three recovery days in between games. Cincinnati ranks near the bottom of the conference in turnover margin (14th) and blocked shots (11th). The Red Storm should also focus on getting the ball in the paint and testing Gates.
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TORCH SPORTS
Goin’ pro C
STORM
AST
Leavin’ their Mark Foe becomes friend
When recently-drafted Neal Kitson heads to Kansas City to suit up for the Wizards of the MLS, he will do so alongside a familiar face. Graham Zusi, the free kick specialist from the University of Maryland, was also drafted by the Wizards. Kitson knows about Zusi’s talent more than anyone. In the College Cup semifinals, it was Zusi’s direct free kick that sailed past Kitson into the net during overtime to end St. John’s run. The two shared a joke when they met again after the draft. As Kitson entered a warm-up game, he said to Zusi, “I wish you were playing so you can make me look good.” Other Big East players selected in the SuperDraft: O’Brien White (UConn), Matt Besler (Notre Dame, also drafted by the Wizards), Jack Traynor (Notre Dame), Kyle Hall (Syracuse), Akeem Priestly (UConn) and Jordan Seabrook (USF), in that order.
Championship run
TORCH PHOTO/ ANTHONY MORREALE
Neal Kitson posted 15 shutouts and 18 wins in his senior season with the Red Storm.
Red Storm netminder Neal Kitson picked in MLS draft
“
Blowin’ in the Wind
[St. John’s] coaches give you a professional outlook on things. This is now a very professional enviroment and I feel I was prepared. But it’s a business now, people have to perform.
”
-Neal Kitson
On the Blog
torchsports.wordpress.com Keep up with the latest happenings of Big East Conference men’s basketball at the TORCH’s sports blog, The Backpage.
Headin’ this Way Red Storm home games
Women’s Basketball: Jan. 27
DePaul
7 p.m.
Men’s Basketball: Jan. 22
Cincinnati
9 p.m.
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other level. There’s an experience factor and sometimes it takes time to grow into those adjustments. You have to be able to do everything in a fairly consistent way.” Kitson put on a show in the College Cup semis, which undoubtedly boosted his stock before the SuperDraft. Masur and players from around Division I told him it ranked among the all-time great performances by a St. John’s keeper. As a senior, Kitson finished his career by setting a new school record with 15 shutouts as he led the Storm to its fourth College Cup in school history. Kitson’s 0.48 goals against average, the second-best in school history, ranked fifth in the country. The keeper’s .888 save percentage also ranked fourth in the NCAA. Masur offered some final parting advice to his All-College Cup First Team keeper before he left for his professional soccer career. “Don’t get upset if things don’t come right away,” he told Kitson. “Work hard and be open-minded to continue to learn.”
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But again, his four seasons at St. John’s under head coach Dave Masur should be plenty preparation for him to succeed at the next level. The 2008 season marked Kitson’s first full year as a starter after backing up Jason Landers for the previous years. His time as a reserve taught him that practice and training are often just as important as the 90 minutes of game time. “I’ve learned a lot when I wasn’t starting at St. John’s, but I was training and learning the things I had to do,” Kitson said. “I just had to stick with it. Anywhere you play, it’s an up and down roller coaster ride.” Kitson also immediately picked up on another major difference between the college and pro game. “People here are a lot bigger,” he said. Masur has coached a handful of players that have gone on to compete professionally. He tells each of them the same thing before they move on to the big stage: “It’s not about being spectacular. It’s about being consistent.” “It’s really an ability to stick with it,” Masur added. “You’re moving up to a whole
21 Jan. 2009
It was a pleasantly short offseason for former Red Storm goalkeeper Neal Kitson. As the rest of St. John’s men’s soccer team took a much deserved vacation after the 1-0 overtime loss to Maryland in the College Cup semifinal, Kitson sat down with his girlfriend on Jan. 15 to watch the Major League Soccer SuperDraft. He anxiously watched his computer screen as it slowly defined what Kitson’s immediate future would hold. “As we were looking on the computer waiting to see my name, I went out of the room and got a phone call,” Kitson said. “I got a phone call from [St. John’s assistant coach Marc] Reeves and he said, ‘Did you hear?’ Then people were texting me, instant messaging me and calling me.” The Red Storm’s standout keeper was selected 42nd overall in the third round by the Kansas City Wizards. Kit-
son was the only St. John’s player to be selected and one of only five keepers taken in the 60-player draft. He was on a plane to Kansas City three days later. The news not only sent Kitson down the path he desired since he was a child, it also marked a historic day for the St. John’s soccer program. Kitson was the first Red Storm goalkeeper ever selected in the SuperDraft. Former Johnnie goalie Bill Gaudette was picked in the 2005 MLS Supplementary Draft. Thanks to his time at Belson Stadium in Queens, Kitson believes he will be well prepared to make the transition from college to the pros. “[St. John’s] coaches really give you a professional outlook on things,” Kitson said. “And this is now a very professional environment and I feel I was prepared. But it’s a business now, people have to perform. But I’m really happy I ended up here.” Kitson is listed on the Kansas City roster alongside 12year MLS veteran Kevin Hartman, which ultimately means he won’t be starting too many games in his rookie season.
SPORTS
MATT CHOQUETTE Staff Writer
Four St. John’s track & field athletes scored ECAC qualifiers at Saturday’s Penn State Open in State College, Pa. Seniors Phobay Kutu-Akoi, Tyneka Greene, and Paula Rennalls and sophomores Priscilla Frederick and Kim Piard will take place in the the ECAC Championships will take place in early March at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston. Four additional student-athletes also made the cut for the Big East Championships in mid-February.
SPORTS 21 January 2009 | VOLUME 86, ISSUE 13 | TORCHONLINE.COM
TORCH PHOTO/ LAURA AMATO
Red Storm goalkeeper Neal Kitson was selected by the Kansas City Wizards in the MLS SuperDraft.
The women’s basketball team have struggled so far in the new year including a recent loss to Notre Dame.
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