Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

2

Seawanhaka S t a f fCONTACTSeawanhaka Press1 University Plaza #S-219Brooklyn, NY 11201Info@SeawanhakaPress.comOffice: 718.488.1591

Editorial PoliciesOpinions expressed on these pages do not necessarily reflect those of the staff. Unsigned editorials are the consensus of the editorial staff members. Opinions expressed in articles with bylines are those of the writers. Letters to the editor must include the writer’s full name and contact information. Seawanhaka reserves the right to edit submissions for length and style. Seawanhaka is published by the students of Long Island University Brooklyn Campus.

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

MABEL MARTINEZEditor-In-Chief

CHASE MELVINNews Editor

SHANEL GILBERTSports Editor

KEELEY IBRAHIMManaging Editor

KAREN MILLERArts & Entertainment

CURTIS STEPHENFaculty Advisor

Staff Writers Copy-EditorNatalia Donoso Nicole Williams Ralphnie EdmondJustin EllisBrittany GanterShanel GilbertErika HardisonMichelle LawtonMelika OzbilgenStephanie PersaudShannon ThomasMatt Romagnoli Anisha RobertsonDesiree RuckerJohn Tolis

RICHARD NAUMedia Specialist

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

SEAWANHAKA PRESS

SWHKPRESSLIUBK

LIUSEAWANHAKA

CONTENTPage 3- LIU Stands For The Future of Financial AidPage 4- Tribute To Excellence in Black CulturePage 5- LIU Biology Students To Present at HarvardPage 5- Campus CameraPage 6- President Obama’s State of The UnionPage 7- The Long Road For RomancePage 8- The New “Four Year” Plan Part One

Page 9- Are Cholesterol Levels a Big Deal?Page 10- Help Wanted!Page 11-Career ServicesPage 12- Entertainment WeeklyPage 12- The Origin of Black History MonthPage 13- The Untold Story of Black Wall Street Page 14- Student Life & Leadership Development

Page 16-Olasewere’s Big WeekPage 16- LIU Falls To St. Francis BrooklynPage 17- Men’s Basketball Improves to 8-4 Page 18- Track and Field Take OverPage 19- Blackbirds Open On A Sour Note

JOB 9-199 BUS SHELTERS BROOKLYN11.8125 X 17.1 (1/4 SIZE ––– FINAL 47.25 X 68.40 LIVE AREA 45.5 X 67

DCW - BUS SHELTERS

liu.eduLONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY

FIND OUT HOW GOOD YOU

REALLY ARE.

Arriving from Trinidad, my goal was to be a good nurse.At LIU Brooklyn my professors taught me so well,

I helped deliver a baby in a car.Before I even graduated, I had a job as

an RN at a top New York hospital.

- Aionga Sonya Pereira, Class of 2012

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

3

Seeking a night full of classic show tunes? See The New York Theater Organ Society, LIU Brooklyn and The New York City Chapter of the American Guild of Organists present Jelani Eddington in concert. Come see Eddington on the “Mighty Wurlitzer” theatre pipe organ Feb. 17. Tickets for students are just $5. Show starts 7 p.m. in the Arnold and Marie Schwartz Gymnasium. For more info visit www.nytos.org.

Transfer Tuesday! Are you or a friend interested in completing your degree? Have you looked into schools before and just weren’t sure how your burning questions would get answered? Book an appointment with an advisor during Transfer Tuesday, Feb. 19. RSVP at admissionsevents@brooklyn.liu.edu for a 30-minute appointment. Please include your name, email address, and intended program of study.

LIU students! Encourage your loved ones to become an LIU student for a day. Students interested in attending LIU Brooklyn should come Feb. 19 to experience “Student for a Day.” They’ll attend classroom sessions and meet with current students. To register and for more information visit admissionsevent@brooklyn.liu.edu.

LIU STANDS FOR THE FUTURE OF FINANCIAL AIDBY: CHASE MELVIN

BY: KEELEY IBRAHIM

Students gathered from across the State of New York to attend Advocacy Day on Feb. 12. The

annual event held in the State Capitol Building in Albany, NY gives current and prospective college students the chance to meet the state officials responsible for financial aid award programs such as the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP).

The Capitol Building was teeming with students, educators and politicians alike, all voicing their opinions about the monetary issues of college financial aid. Among those in attendance was a large contingent that represented the present and future of LIU Brooklyn; for those students, one of their main objectives was to thank the senators and assembly members who represent the various districts of New York –representatives who continue to fight for student financial aid funds – and also to discuss the importance of future financial aid programs.

“[Advocacy Day] is a good opportunity for students to show appreciation for the aid they receive,” said Natasha A. Lewis, LIU Brooklyn’s Coordinator for Student Civic Engagement and Community Relations. “I wish more schools were in attendance to do the same; there were not as many colleges represented this year as compared to years before.”

While some students toured the impressive Capitol Building, others, such as LIU Brooklyn students, were given the opportunity to speak directly to various state representatives. Students had up to three appointments with senators and assembly members to discuss and ask questions about financial aid.

One such representative was Michael G. DenDekker, an assemblyman for New York State’s 34th district. The honorable assemblyman was elated to speak with the impassioned Brooklyn Campus students.

“Continued financial aid for college students is a huge priority for me,” DenDekker said, “but unfortunately

many of my colleagues don’t feel the same way – the focus is more toward the money and less toward the students. Many representatives don’t seem to realize that education is the key focal point in this country; we educate people now so it can pay dividends in the future.”

This concept of the future is one that students of all backgrounds can relate to. Higher education exists to give people stronger opportunities for the future – a future in which they can give back to those in need and become members of society that contribute to the economy of their country. Without the continued support of financial aid programs, higher education is in danger of being reserved solely for students that can afford the expensive out-of-pocket tuition payments. Several LIU Brooklyn students were able to voice their concerns regarding this issue.

“[College students] need larger TAP and Pell Grants as well as loan forgiveness,” said Stephen Penn, a Brooklyn Campus senior and student leader majoring in

business management and marketing. Marsha Jones-Wilson, also a Brooklyn Campus senior, spoke in depth about her apprehensions regarding TAP. Majoring in communication sciences and psychology, Jones-Wilson plans to attend graduate school, but the lack of TAP funding for grad programs could potentially halt her plans for the future.

“Funding for graduate studies is out of sorts across the state,” she said. “I want to be able to go to grad school, and I know other students feel similarly. The biggest obstacle in our way is funding.”

Several state representatives like DenDekker are amenable to these concerns, though the honorable assemblyman pointed out that the state simply cannot afford to increase financial aid at this given time.

“Education is number one on the agenda for the democratic assembly and I would like to see financial aid increase,

Assembyman Michael G. DenDekker (right) meets with LIU Brooklyn students at the New York State Capitol on Advocacy Day to discuss financial aid for college students. Also pictured (left to right) Jordain James, Taiesa Heath and Marsha Jones-Wilson. Photo: Chase Melvin

(continued on pg. 4)

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

4

TRIBUTE TO EXCELLENCE IN BLACK CULTURE BY: MELIKA OZBILGEN

In honor of Black History Month, the Kumble Theatre held a special event titled “Living History” on

Feb. 13. The event honored some of today’s African American leaders who contribute to media, the arts, health services and education; these notable leaders included Francesca Harper, Carolyn A. Butts, Wendy Wilson, Conway G. Gittens, Dr. Cheryl Croney, John Ellis and Renee Crump.

The honorees received awards and gave inspirational speeches about their contributions and experiences. Throughout the event, the audience was entertained with a dance performance by students from Middle School 113. The musical selection was by William Richardson, and a short film titled Reel Sisters by Safiya Songhai was shown.

Francesca Harper is a performer of dance, music and film. Some of her accomplishments include a single titled, Would I?, which was released on Powerhouse Records in 2003, and performances in Broadway production such as, The Color Purple. During her speech, Harper quoted Martha Graham: “If you have something inside, it is yours

to honor and not to question. If you have an artistic talent then you should cherish it and acknowledge it every day.”

Wendy Wilson is a news editor for Essence magazine. She has had the opportunity to interview prominent African Americans such as Dr. Maya Angelou and Rev. Al Sharpton during her experiences. Wilson was invited to the African American Online Summit meeting at the White House where she met President Barack Obama in 2011. “I go to work and I try to spread the word to black women across this country that we are doing amazing things,” Wilson said. “We are so strong and powerful and we have the capability to really teach and preach and inspire and empower, and I try to do that every day in the stories that I bring through the magazine.”

Wilson encouraged all the students in the audience to work hard and never doubt themselves. “Never underestimate your value or power to get what you want once you strive for it,” she said.

Black History Month is a time to honor

the African American leaders who came before our time and have left an impact on the world through politics, entertainment and health services. It is also an opportunity to honor the African

Americans of today who continue to contribute to our society with their hard work and dedication and pave the way for the next generation.

(Left to Right) Tajuan Parker, Dean Williams, Wendy Wilson, Conway G. Gittens, Renee Crump and Carolyn A. Butts with Photo: Melika Ozbilgen

LIU STANDS FOR THE FUTURE OF FINANCIAL AIDbut we lack the funds to make that a reality,” he said. “New York State is still dealing with several costly deficits such as Wall Street bailout of 2008 and the terrorist attacks of Sept. 2001. Education is a huge revenue generating stream for the state, but less people are attending colleges due to the cost and the lack of certain types of financial aid, so it’s easy to see our dilemma.”

According to DenDekker, the only way to resolve this dilemma is for students to continue the fight for advocacy. “I appreciate all [the state] has done for college students in New York,” said Shaquana Leelam, a Brooklyn Campus junior and health science major. “I look forward to representing LIU Brooklyn again and making my voice heard at future advocacy events.”

College students from across New York visit the State Capitol Building in Albany on Advocacy Day to show their appreciation for financial aid programs. Photo Credit: Chase Melvin

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

5

CAMPUS CAMERA: WHAT ARE YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY PLANS?

James Murray, Business Management Senior

“Spending my entire day at the lovely LIU Brooklyn. I love learning, so it’s not so bad.”

Erin Harpe, Nursing Freshman

“I have a fight in Manhattan on Saturday, so I’m going to my classes and training for my fight after.”

Jerome Walker, Business Management Sophomore

“Well, I have class on that day, so I plan to have a nice dinner on the weekend with my boo.”

Aida Tate, Education Junior

“I have a late dinner planned with my husband.”

BY: JUSTIN ELLIS

LIU BIOLOGY STUDENTS TO PRESENT AT HARVARDLIU Brooklyn students

Martha Lewis and Kimaada Allette were chosen to present their latest

research at the New England Science Symposium held at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Mass. on March 2.

Lewis and Allette are members of LIU Brooklyn’s Minority Biomedical Research Support/Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (MBRS/RISE) program that strongly encourages minority participation in the sciences. These esteemed students have earned the opportunity to present at the prominent symposium, which provides a forum for college students to share their biomedical and health related research through oral and physical presentations. Martha Lewis, a 27-year-old senior who studies biology and chemistry at the Brooklyn Campus, will present research she conducted during a summer internship at Penn State University’s College of Medicine. She investigated different pathways to preventing and treating skin cancer by utilizing the drugs rapamycin, which has been widely used in the prevention of transplant rejection due to its ability

Kimaada Allette and Martha Lewis Photo Credit: LIU Public Relations

to suppress the immune system, and torin, commonly used in the treatment of depressive and obsessive-compulsive disorders.

“It is a subject of great interest to me,” Lewis said. “I was really excited to learn that my research was selected for the symposium. The fact that I’ll be presenting at Harvard is pretty exciting, but I’ll be looking forward to sharing my findings with my peers and future colleagues the most.”

Lewis’ work is influenced by her recollection of the civil war in her hometown Sierra Leone when she was a child. “I saw so many people die there,” she said, “and I asked myself ‘how could I help?’ I realized then that I wanted to dedicate my life to medicine.” After graduating from LIU Brooklyn in May of 2013, Lewis plans on attending grad school and becoming a physician scientist, a medically trained scholar that performs disease-oriented or patient-oriented research.

LIU Brooklyn senior Kimaada Allette, 23, originally intended to be a pharmacy major until she worked at a pharmacy for a short period of time; soon after

BY: SHANNON THOMAS & CHASE MELVIN

she transitioned to biochemistry. “It seemed like the best choice because of my love for the laboratory,” she said. Allete also interned at Penn State’s College of Medicine last summer; there she developed the idea for her project, which involves genetic determinations of future generations. She discovered that the new technique increased mutations, and was not as reliable as previous techniques.

“The experimental design developed by this project can be incorporated into new computational programs to enable the increased recovery and accuracy of DNA sequencing,” Allette said.

Allette, who is also a member of LIU Brooklyn’s Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), will graduate in December.

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

6

PRESIDENT OBAMA’S STATE OF THE UNION BY: SHAELYNE MOODIE

President Barack Obama gave his first State of The Union address since his inauguration in

January on Tuesday evening. Members of Congress as well as the families of gun violence victims surrounded the President during the address, which aired live on all news stations after 9 p.m.

Throughout the address, President Obama spoke on many issues that have been on a standstill because of the battle to gain nonpartisanship of the Democratic and Republican parties. Obama discussed how the recent issues in America are much bigger than both the parties; it’s affecting the nation as a whole. “It’s our unfinished task that the government work on the behalf of many and not just the few,” Obama said. “America only moves forward when we do so together. The American people don’t expect government to solve every problem. They don’t expect those of us in this chamber to agree on every issue. But they do expect us to put the nation’s interests before party.”

The State of the Union had an array of many different topics as from the economy, to education, to gun control. President Obama vocalized his Deficit Reduction target for the economy, which was based on many sub-topics such as Medicare, jobs and taxes. Obama does recognize that the job Market is on the rise; he also stated that the “middle class is thriving,” and that America’s deficit was reduced $2.5 Trillion.

President Obama explains that a lot of the debt is because of Medicare and Social Security. He suggested that since all of the taxes for healthcare and Social Security are coming from mainly middle class and senior citizens, the wealthier upper class should be expected to provide more taxes. “We’ll reduce taxpayer subsidies to prescription drug companies and ask more from the wealthiest seniors,” Obama said.   He also states that he feels healthcare should be dealt with as “quality over quantity,” because “our medical bills shouldn’t be based on the number of tests ordered or days spent in the hospital – they should be based on the quality of care that our seniors receive.”

President Obama discussed how the tax reform could encourage job creations, which can help reduce the deficit. Small businesses would have a chance to expand and hire instead of being denied assistance. Obama also mentioned the notion of actually hiring and cultivating businesses in the United States, as opposed to outsourcing work to other countries. America seems to rely heavily on exports, which takes away the option to create jobs. But President Obama also presumes that jobs have been created and restored within the country. “Intel is opening its most advanced plant right here at home. And this year, Apple will start making Macs in America again.”

Another resolution that could provide jobs and assist the deficit is the creation of an American source of energy. President Obama said, “We produce more oil at home than we have in 15 years. We have doubled the distance our cars will go on a gallon of gas, and the amount of renewable energy we generate from sources like wind and solar – with tens of thousands of good, American jobs to show for it.”

President Obama also points out

with these new job creations, a higher quality of education is required, and America should invest in the future of their children. Obama affirmed that the American education system should be like that of Germany, where high school students’ diplomas are equivalent to Associate’s degrees, so the student are prepared for the world of work. Obama pinpointed that some American schools are doing so.

“At schools like P-Tech in Brooklyn, a collaboration between New York Public Schools, the City University of New York, and IBM, students will graduate with a high school diploma and an associate degree in computers or engineering.”

Obama discussed about the need for better loans, grants and college rates for all American families. He went onto explain that this investment in education can boost graduation rates, reduce teen pregnancy, and reduce violent crime.

Gearing towards the end of the address, President Obama spoke about the issue of gun control. He acknowledges

the 2nd Amendment, which gives American citizens the right to bear arms, but Obama also says there is a need for restrictions and qualifications on purchasing guns, such as background checks. He emphasized to Congress the importance of these proposals getting a vote. As the President continued to speak, the gear of the Address became more endearing with more testimonials as he spoke about victims of gun violence –such as Hadiya Pendleton, a teen who was shot one week after performing in President Obama’s inaugural parade in Chicago, and the Sandy Hook victims. The victims of the families wore green ribbons, as did members of Congress who were in support of the Gun Control Act. President Obama received a teary-eyed standing ovation during this portion of the address.

President Obama closed by speaking about the pride he has for America. He reiterated that America isn’t made up of nationalities or wealth but of citizens. “It remains the task of us all, as citizens of these United States, to be the authors of the next great chapter in our American story,” he said.

President Barack Obama is applauded as he gives his State of the Union address during a joint session of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday Feb. 12. (AP Photo/J. Scott)

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

7

THE LONG ROAD FOR ROMANCE BY: YANA NADELYAEVA

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and while the romance is in the air, I decided

to talk with our college students about their relationships and what plans they may have for the big day.

Some students on the LIU campus are coping with long-distance love. While the study year is in progress some couples have to be in long distance relationships. I asked a few co-eds about their opinions regarding Valentine’s Day and their thoughts regarding long-distance romance. The answers of the students were surprisingly opposite from what I expected. Most student’s don’t think that long distance love could exist.

Jacob Ipradieu is majoring in Political Science. Ipradieu is single and doesn’t believe in relationships at all, at least not yet. He also doesn’t think that long distance relationships are possible. “Being together is a question of mutual understanding and trust…it will not work while you are in a [long-distance relationship].”

James Maitlall is a Biology major currently dating his girlfriend for about 6 months. Maitlall doesn’t believe in long-distance relationships because he used to be in one and it didn’t last more than 2 weeks.

Amanda Mercado is an Education major and considers that long-distance relationships are hard. “If you’re dating someone you surely need to talk. [You need] to see that person in real life, otherwise it will not work.”

Aris Folley majors in Journalism. She’s single and doesn’t believe in long distance relationships. In her opinion it could work if you’ve known each other previously and were dating for some time beforehand. According to Folley, a long-distance relationship may work between a couple for a short amount of time, for instance if you’ll only be gone for a short period.

Roksolana Sheverack majors in Political Science and doesn’t have time for relationships. However, she believes that

long-distance relationships are possible.Kyarrah Bender, a Political Science major, has been dating her boyfriend for two years. Bender’s boyfriend studies in Upstate New York. She feels it’s not difficult for them because they meet on weekends, text, call and Facebook.

I’m currently in a long distance relationship myself. Moreover my boyfriend and I don’t just live in different cities or different states, we live in different countries. I’m Russian and moved to New York for to attend school. We see each other once several months for two-three weeks. Of course it’s extremely hard because we constantly miss each other. On weekends I wish that we were together. I wish we were holding hands and watching a good movie. I’d even wish we were skating in Central Park. Instead we talk 2-3 hours on Skype. And every night we dream of falling asleep together instead of texting each other “Good night.”

Many people might wonder why a person would choose to be in long-distance relationship. I think that when we are young we are very impatient with everything. Young people want it all and want it now. As we get older we realize that not all things in life turn out as we wish it to be. Sometimes we have to bear and follow life circumstances before we get what we want.

We are very inexperienced too. We want to try so many new things because we don’t know what kind of person we want to be with, so we try to date different people. I think we just need to have choices. Long-distance relationships seem crazy to some people; waiting for only one person while there are so many cute and interesting people around you. The more experience we get, the more mature we become. And once you meet a person and realize that he or she is the one you want to be with, it’s not simply crazy stupid love.

The qualities of this special person also allow you to see the drawback of his character, but you just know that you can bear them. None of us are ideal to the full extent. Once you’ve found the person who’s perfect personally

for you, you become ready to stand long weeks or even months waiting for them. Students cope with long-distance relationships for some period in order to one day get together for real and forever.

Russian classical author, A.Kuprin, once

stated that separation for love is like wind for fire: it puts out the small fire of love, but it fans the big love fire even more!

Photo: Google Images

Photo: Google Images

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

8

THE NEW “FOUR YEAR” PLAN PART ONE

It takes many college students on average, approximately six years to graduate from a four-year college

or university according to a USA Today article. After high school graduation, students usually dream of that pearly white or cream-colored Bachelors degree, but reality sets us back. College students usually plan on completing all their course work and internships within a four year stretch, however for many students that stretch spans into more than what is common. Are college students realistic in believing that a four year education is possible in four years? Ida Guerreo is a nursing major at ASA College in Downtown Brooklyn. She began her college career in 2006 and is set to graduate with an Associate’s degree in 2013. “I get financial aid during the year, which is great, but it only allows me to take 12 or 14 credits.”

For many students that receive financial aid there are certain requirements that a student must live by. I receive financial aid during the fall and spring semesters, but I am not able to receive aid in the summer unless I plan on taking fewer classes during the year. Most students use money out of their own pockets for

expensive summer classes, but one class alone can set you back in the thousands depending on the credit.

Freshmen are usually counseled to start with a light course work in their first semester - 12 credit max. Usually students continue with the 12 credit max course work some become overwhelmed and slip to 9 credits, however in order to receive full-time student credit they must take 12. Long Island University requires students to have 128 credits at the time of graduation.

If you were to do the math and take in the fact that many students aren’t able to take summer classes, in four years the average student would only have 96 credits. This leaves the student with 32 more credits to take, which equals to an additional year and a half. So is it the student that has it wrong or is it the institution that gets it wrong? Who’s doing the math? Money is always a factor when students aren’t or are able to graduate on “time”. I’ve taken a two-year break from getting my Bachelor’s degree, having already transferred twice. There are many reasons why a college student might

not complete their degree in four years, but some do make it on that stage in the allotted time…and to those I say, Kudos!

The most important thing students

BY: KEELEY IBRAHIM

should remember is to stay on course. No matter if you graduate in four years or fourteen years. As my grandmother would say, “If it was so easy, everyone would be doing it.”

Photo: Google images

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

9

ARE CHOLESTEROL LEVELS SUCH A BIG DEAL?Cholesterol is a substance created

and used by our bodies to keep us healthy. Some of the cholesterol

we need is produced naturally, while some of it comes from the food we eat. There are two types of cholesterol: “good cholesterol” otherwise known as HDL, and “bad cholesterol” otherwise known as LDL. Too much of bad cholesterol or not enough of good cholesterol can put you at risk for coronary heart disease, Myocardial Infarction (heart attack) or Cerebrovascular accident (stroke).

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol comes from our body and the food we eat. The liver and other cells in our body accounts for 75 percent of blood cholesterol. The other 25 percent comes from our diet. Cholesterol is only found in animal products not in vegetations. When too much of it circulates in the blood, it can clog arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. LDL cholesterol is produced naturally by the body, but can be inherited. Consumption of saturated fat, trans fats and dietary cholesterol also increases how much you have. If you have other risk factors like Diabetes mellitus or Hypertension the risk of complications double.

What are the effects of bad cholesterol?When lots of bad cholesterol is present, it can slowly accumulate in the inner walls of the arteries in the heart and brain. Together with other toxic substances,

it can form blockages that can narrow the arteries and make them rigid. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, a heart attack or stroke can result as the blood supply may decrease. Therefore as blood cholesterol rises, the risk of coronary heart disease also increases.

How to combat issues with cholesterol?Even though high cholesterol may lead to serious heart disease and stroke, most of the time there will be no symptoms what so ever until it becomes very serious. This is why it is important to have your cholesterol levels checked by your doctor. Even if your cholesterol levels are good now, it may change in the future and it’s always beneficial to develop healthy habits that can help keep your numbers in check.

A cholesterol screening measures your level of HDL and LDL.  A healthy level of HDL may also protect against heart attack and stroke, while low levels of HDL (less than 40 mg/dl for men and less than 50 mg/dl for women) have been shown to increase the risk of heart disease. 

According to the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) guidelines for detection of high cholesterol in all adults age 20 or older should have a fasting lipoprotein profile which measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and

BY: SHERLY ABRAHAM & ARVIND ANKIREDDYPALLI

Foods that cause high cholesterol.Photo: inhealth.cnn.com

triglycerides once every five years. The 3rd Report of the Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III or ATP III) recommends that everyone age 20 and older should have a fasting lipid levels every five years.

How is cholesterol tested?

A small sample of blood will be drawn from your arm. Blood sample is then analyzed by a laboratory. Test report will show your cholesterol level in

milligrams per deciliter of blood(mg/dL).

How to improve cholesterol levels?If you need to increase your HDL to your reach your goals, studies show that regular physical activity can help your body produce more HDLs.  To decrease LDL levels, reducing trans fats and eating a balanced, nutritious diet is always helpful. If these measures are not enough maintain the cholesterol levels to goal, your healthcare practitioner may prescribe a medication.

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

10

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

11

Are you a graduating senior with at least 2 internships under your belt?

OR… Are you an undergraduate who has had an internship?

OR… Have you volunteered at least 2 hours in Career Services?

If you responded “YES” to any of these questions, you may be eligible to apply

for a Career Services Award! **See Application for Additional Criteria **

Complete application is due Thursday, February 28th at 5 p.m. Applications are available now in Pratt 510 or under “Resource Library” in MyCareerKey.

Spring Internships/Part-time Jobs: Kellogg International

Interns (Job ID#5801) Stipend Paid opportunities in business, marketing, web design and event planning

Victory Fine Art

Paid Art Booth Representative-Barclay's Center(Job ID# 5710)

Lotus and Phoenix Productions LLC Part-time Paid Assistant/Production Coordinator(Job ID# 5805)

Massey Knakal Realty Services

Paid internship program in a variety of areas (Job ID# 5803)

Morgan Stanley Event Offering possible internship opportunities for current female undergraduate freshmen and sophomore students

(Job ID#5843)- Application deadline: February 22, 2013

For additional information about positions above and how to apply (and other positions and events), log on to your MyCareerKey account: www.liu.edu/brooklyn/mycareerkey/student

Meet with your Career Counselor for your information

“Like” us on Facebook and join us on LinkedIn Search LIU Brooklyn Career Services

SS InternShip

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

12

1) Pour It Up Rihanna

2) No Worries Lil’ Wayne

3) Poetic Justice Kendrick Lamar

4) RIP Young Jeezy

5) Ready Fabolous

6) All Gold Everything Trinidad James

7) She Don’t Put It Down Joe Budden

8) Don’t Judge Me Chris Brown

9) Problems A$AP Rocky

10) Guap Big Sean

RAPPER, RICK ROSS SUED AND EMINEM IS BACKBY: KAREN MILLER

BY: KAREN MILLERTHE ORIGIN OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Rapper, Rick RossPhoto: www.spin.com

Clara Shepherd Warrick and Jimmy Lee Weary have filed a new copyright lawsuit against

producer Jake One, Universal Music Group and rap artist Rick Ross because of his song, “3 Kings.” Warrick and Weary both own rights to the original song, which was titled, “I’m So Grateful

(Keep in Touch).” The song was released in 1976 and featured on the album, God Save The Children.

According to the lawsuit, Rick Ross failed to get proper permission to include “3 Kings” on his album, God Forgives I Don’t.

NBA All-Star Weekend kicks off in Houston, TX on February 15th at the George R. Brown Convention Center. John Legend will be singing the National Anthem at the All-Star game and Alicia Keys will sing during half-time. The 2013 Sprint NBA All-Star Game Weekend will air on ESPN this Friday, starting at 7:00p.m.

Eminem’s longtime manager Paul Rosenberg in a recent interview with Billboard said that the rapper will release his eighth studio album in May. Eminem’s last album, Recovery has sold over 5.8 million copies.

VH1 Love & Hip Hop star, Mandeecess Harris was recently acquitted of sexually assaulting a teenager girl. Harris was charged with having a sexual relationship with the daughter of his former girlfriend. Once the verdict was

read the victim’s grandmother and aunt left the courtroom saying the truth will come out eventually.

CEO and Chairman, Barry Weiss has announced, David Massey is the new President of Island Records. In the past Massey was Vice President of A&R for Sony Music Label Group US and president of Mercury Records.

Lil Mama who was most famous for crashing the performance of Jay Z and Alicia Keys at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards has disappeared since the incident. The rapper recently landed a movie role to play Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes in an upcoming TLC biopic. Stay tune for emerging details.

In a recent interview, Toni Braxton told TheGrio.com that she is considering retiring from the music industry and start focusing a career as an actress.

Police in Beverly Hills said that Chris Brown escaped injury after crashing his Porsche into a wall while being chased by paparazzi. Brown lost control of his car, the incident is currently under investigation.

The month of February is known as Black History Month, but what many African-Americans

may not be aware is, how the acknowledgement of black success came into effect and what were the struggles to obtain Black History Month?

The story of Black History Month started in Chicago during the year

of 1915. Carter G. Woodson was an alumnus of the University of Chicago and he had traveled to Washington D.C to participate in a national celebration of emancipation sponsored by the state of Illinois. Many African Americans traveled to the city to see exhibits showcasing the talent and progression of blacks since the abolishment of slavery.

Woodson decided to form an organization to promote the studies of black life in history. The organization Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) was formed. In 1924, Woodson came up with the creation of Negro History and Literature Week, which was the beginning of Black History Month.

Negro History Week was officially a celebration for one week in February

1926.February was picked because of the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Woodson wanting to expand the Negro History Week because he believed history was made by the people, not simply or primarily by great men. Woodson believed that focus on countless black men and women who had contributed to the advance of human civilization should be the primarily focus.

Negro History Week started too appeared across the United States in schools and before the public. The expanding of Woodson’s idea started to create more organizations around the country. The Negro History Clubs were formed, which created the acknowledgement of black education. As the celebration and black population increased, mayors in cities across the

country issued Negro History Week proclamations. Before Woodson’s death in the 1950 he believed that the weekly celebrations of Negro History should always be taught in schools throughout the year. In the 1940s, black communities started to expand their study of black history in the schools. During the Civil Rights Movement in the south, the Freedom Schools incorporated black history into the school curriculum.

The shift to have Black History month was first recognized by blacks in West Virginia during the early 1940s. In 1976, the 50th anniversary of Negro History Week was finally turned into Black History month and ever since then, Black History month has been celebrated in February around the country.

The founder of Black History Month, Dr. Carter G. Woodson Photo: amsterdamnews

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

13

THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE BLACK WALL STREET IN AMERICA BY: KAREN MILLER

Many African-Americans may not have been aware there was once a town named

Greenwood that was located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Greenwood was a unique town in the United States; it was the first all-black city that blacks were successful pilots, doctors, lawyers and teachers. Black Wall Street was often compared as mini Beverly Hills over 600 black owned businesses was established. The tragic story of what happened to; Black Wall Street is barely told in American history.

Blacks had first migrated to Tulsa with the Native Americans. Both races settled there as a result of President Andrew Jackson’s Indian Removal Act, the state of Oklahoma had over 28 black towns because many blacks and Native Americans wanting to have their own town. The goals of the blacks and Native Americans who settled in Tulsa was to create a multi-ethnic community among the Five Tribes and try to help grow a country together during the 1900s.

The Greenwood community also developed a strong education system, black students learned about ancient and modern history, psychology, English and bookkeeping. The community was thriving well, despite many whites felt that blacks were second citizens. Blacks were growing into business owners and entrepreneurs.

The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) decided to invade the town because Dick Rowland a resident of Greenwood was accused of raping and assaulting Sarah Page, a white woman. The result of their unclear relationship was the center of the demolishment of Greenwood. Rumors started spreading among white residents of Tulsa and they planned to lynch Rowland.

The local newspaper, Tulsa Tribune reported a false story saying that Rowland was charged with assault and blacks knew it was a fabricated story and some residents went into town to defend Rowland. Rowland was wrongfully lynched by the KKK and the plan to attack and eliminate the town of Greenwood was put into effect.

On the evening of June 1, 1921, KKK members were full of rage and burnt Greenwood to the ground. In less than 12 hours, the once successful black business town was demolished. The horrific events caused by the KKK had left thousands of innocent African-Americans dead and their once owned property of churches, restaurants, grocery stores, private airplanes and law offices were burnt down.

The KKK destroyed a 35 square block area of the town and the estimated property loss reached above $2.3 million. Many innocent blacks who were trying to protect their homes were arrested or killed for no reason. Approximately 4,300 African-Americans were left homeless.

Tulsa began to cover up the aftermath of the violent riot and funerals were forbidden for the victims of the massacre. By 1922 most of the buildings in the original community were rebuilt, but it did not last and the city was not the same again.

According to the San Francisco Bayview, national black newspaper, the massacre and destruction of Black Wall Street allegedly was caused because many white people had come back from World War I and they were poor. Blacks after the war were successful and were consider heroes after they fought in the war.

Black Wall Street is an influential factor for African Americans, despite the horrific ending, the people of Greenwood showed that blacks have had successful careers during the early 1900s. Black Wall Street was not the typical town in America; many blacks were very wealthy and the community flourished for approximately twenty-one years. The destruction of Greenwood is the largest massacre of nonmilitary Americans in the history of this country. The devastation of Greenwood cost the black community everything and the United Stated government has never admits to the wrong doing and no restitution has never been awarded to the victims and the city was practically erased from American history.

Tulsa Race Riot Black Wall Street child carrying another child.Photo: Google Images

Tulsa Race Riot Black Wall Street.Photo: Google Images

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

14

Student Life and Leadership Development - Upcoming Events:

RED PUMP PROJECT- LIU Brooklyn Campaign TableMonday, March 4, 2013 at 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Sign-up at the table or at the Office of Student Life and Leadership Development M-311For more information, please contact Natasha A. Lewis, Coordinator for Student Civic Engagement and Community Relations in the

Office of Student Life and Leadership Development at (718) 488-1216.

RED PUMP PROJECT- “Paint Brooklyn Red” March to the Barclay Center

Friday, March 6, 2013 at 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.On March 10, 2013, the National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD),

encourages people to take action in the fight against HIV/AIDS and raise awareness of its impact on women and girls. LIU Brooklyn will be starting our Red Pump Project and we are asking all LIU Brooklyn women to be a part of this impactful campaign.

We will “Paint Brooklyn Red” as we campaign in the Fort-Greene Brooklyn community distributing information to nearby schools and programs regarding the HIV/AIDS epidemic that affects women all over the country. On the last day of the Red Pump Project, we will all put on our red pumps and march to the Barclays Center where we will

release balloons in remembrance of women who lost the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Don’t Be A Fool, Blood Drives Are Cool Monday, April 1, 2013 at 10:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m.

Health Science Lobby“There is no substitute for human blood. One in three people will need blood sometime during their lives. Blood only lasts 42 days.

Your donation is critically important” (New York Blood Center, nd). Please be sure to bring your government issued identification card and eat prior to donating blood. For more information, please contact Natasha A. Lewis, Coordinator for Student Civic Engagement and Community Relations in the

Office of Student Life and Leadership Development at (718) 488-1216.

March of Dimes Thursday, April 4, 2013, Tuesday, April 9, 2013 & Thursday, April 11, 2013

12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Metcalf Building (In front of the Luntey) Join team LIU Brooklyn for the March of Dimes Walk for Babies on April 28, 2013 at Lincoln Center on 62nd St. and Columbus Ave. You can sign-up in the Office of

Student Life and Leadership Development M311 or at the sign-up tables. You may also join the team online at: http://www.marchforbabies.org/team/t1956757 For more information, please contact Natasha A. Lewis, Coordinator for Student Civic Engagement and Community Relations in the Office of Student Life and

Leadership Development (SLLD) at (718) 488-1216. “In Union there is Strength” -Aesop

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

15

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

16

Lead by senior Tamika Guz and freshman Sophie Bhasin with 16 points each, LIU-Brooklyn’s

women’s basketball team dropped 2-9 in its conference after falling to St. Francis Brooklyn 62-70 last Saturday afternoon.

The Blackbirds trailed early in the first and seemed not to be able to catch a break as the Terriers increased its lead into double figures. But, LIU did not back down quietly and used a series of short spurts to get back within striking distance of its opponent.

However, SFBK never looked back as it once again increased its lead, this time to as much as 13 points in the half. LIU did manage to bring the St. Francis lead back down into single digits but were sent into the intermission down 11 points 32-21.

Second half action flowed much like the first, as the Terriers displayed complete control over its visitors. With 6:55 on the clock SFBK saw its largest lead of the night at 15 points, and it was then that the Blackbirds decided to take action.

A last minute rally for LIU help pushed the team back within two possessions with 1:35 left in the half. However, the Blackbirds could not keep up its

momentum as its opportunity slowly slipped away with 4 straight points from the Terriers. The blackbirds ended the night 70-62 and dropped to 2-9 in the NEC and 5-17 overall.

Long Island’s meeting with the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils has been postponed but LIU is slated to return to the court at 2pm on Saturday where the team will host Fairleigh Dickenson

in the Play for Kay/Hoops for Cancer double-header event.

LIU FALLS TO ST. FRANCIS BROOKLYN

Freshman Sophie BhasinPhoto Credit: LIU Athletics

Essanna Gray, Bowling

Hometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.Previous School: Medgar Evers Major: Biology

“I plan on going to medical school if not I’m not exactly sure.”

Tiffany Parker, Track & Feild

Hometown: Flushing, N.Y.Previous School: John BooneMajor: Biology

“I’m planning on going to medical school and becoming an anesthesiologist.”

Kenny Onyechi, Mens Basketball

Hometown: Sugar Land TexasPrevious School: KempnerMajor: Helath Science

“My experience here has been great; I’ve met a lot of interesting people and grown a lot as an individual.”

Dottie Vea. Track & Feild,

Hometown: Sandy, UtahPrevious School: Weber State Univ.Major: Social Science

“I’m going for my doctorate possibly in New Zealand or possibly just stay in L.I.U. and looking to be a professor.”

MEET SOME OF OUR SENIOR ATHLETES BY: SHANEL GILBERT

BY: SHANEL GILBERTOLASEWERE’S BIG WEEK

Senior Jamal O l a s e w e r e played a big

week in sports and as a result the 6’7” forward has been chosen as Choice Hotels NEC player of a week for the second time this season.

The impressive athletes accolades do not end there, shortly after Olasewere was selected as a nominee for the “State Farm Dark Horse Dunker” competition. In order to be selected as a participant, fans have been asked to vote for Olasewere or the player of their choice, on the official Facebook page of the contest.

The process is determined over a five-week period in which players will be eliminated by round. Olasewere is up against Antonio Cannon from Indiana tech in the first round and voting to see the Blackbird move up ends on Feb. 25. Each person is allowed one vote per day.

If you’d like to vote for your fellow classmate and athlete visit: facebook.com/CollegeSlam.

BY: SHANEL GILBERT

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

17

MEN’S BASKETBALL IMPROVES TO 8-4 IN CONFERENCE BY: SHANEL GILBERT

Traditionally quiet, last Sunday afternoon took a loud and aggressive turn as the Blackbirds

faced off against rival St. Francis Brooklyn at the Barclays center. Led by senior Jamal Olasewere with 20 points, LIU ended the night on top 83-75 but the win did not come easy.

“We didn’t have the same defensive intensity that we have had over the last seven or eight games, but in the end our guys made plays down the stretch.” Said Head Coach Jack Perri.

Long Island opened the closing period up by 11 and maintained a comfortable lead for most of the half. Still, the Terriers did not back down and managed to tie the game 60-60 with just over 9 minutes left in the half. Looking to retake the lead junior Jason Brickman responded to the tie with a trey that once against gave the Blackbirds the upper hand, but St. Francis came right back to tie the game yet again 64-64.

“Every game we talk about poise; before the game, in the middle of the game, again it’s a 40 minute game and we understand that there’s going to be runs within it,” Perri said.

Tie-after-tie, the terriers tried to snuff the Blackbirds lead and were finally able to do so using the help of a layup by Akeem Johnson. Immediately after, a turnover by LIU led to another layup that put SFBK up by its largest lead of the night.

Down 72-75 with under 3 minutes left, the Blackbirds bounced back with an 8-0 run to close the half 83-75.“It’s a great rivalry, Glenn does a great job with those guys; it’s a talented group and when we win it feels good,” Perri continued.

In the opening period, Long Island managed to expand its lead to as much as 14 points. Behind Olasewere with 20, LIU saw two other players in double figures. Garner with 17 and Brickman with 14 points. The junior also contributed with nine assists.

Just days before, Olasewere had a great 25 point game when the Blackbirds

took on the Blue Devils in New Britain, Connecticut. 81-75, LIU took every opportunity it could to add a much needed win to its conference record.

LIU increased its lead to as much as eight points early in the first, but CCSU swooped in from behind to claim the lead for itself. A trey by senior Booker Hucks, followed by a layup from Garner put LIU back up 18-15 but Blue Devil Matt Hunter responded with a three pointer of his own to even out the contest.

Despite its attempts to hold the visiting team down, the Blue devils could not stop LIU. Still, CCSU stayed close behind as the teams headed into the intermission 32-30 in favor of Long Island.

By the halfway mark in the second, Long Island established full control of the contest and managed to break away from away from its opponent for some much needed room to breathe.

Capitalizing off of second chance points, the Blackbirds increased its lead to 11 points with just 39 seconds left on the clock, successfully putting the game out of reach for the Blue Devils. However, the home team made a desperate rally attempt the cut the Blackbird lead back to just two possessions with 11 seconds left to play.

Unfortunately, for CCSU Garner went two-for-two from the line, closing night 81-75 with 10 seconds on the clock. LIU saw four players in double figures: Olasewere with 25, Garner with 17, classmate Brandon Thompson with 14 and freshman E.J. Reed with 10. Olasewere also added 14 rebounds for a double-double.

The Blackbirds have just six games left in ts season and returns to the court tonight to take on Monmouth at 7pm in West Long Branch NJ and again on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. at the Wellness, Recreation and Athletic center.

Men’s basketball huddles up before gamePhoto Credit: LIU Athletics department

Junior Jason BrickmanPhot Credit: LIU Athletics Department

Seaw

anha

ka P

ress

| w

ww.

Seaw

anha

kaPr

ess.

com

|

FEBR

UARY

14,

201

3

18

TRACK AND FIELD TAKE OVER BY: JUSTIN ELLIS

Friday evening a snowstorm blew through Landover Maryland but it did not stop the men’s and

women’s track team from competing at the Northeast Conference indoor Championships. In the men’s 60-meter preliminaries, LIU dominated the competition by gaining five out of eight total qualifying spots. In the first of four races, LIU saw two athletes finish in first and second place. Sophomore and teammate, Brendon Rodney placed first with a time of 6.91 and Mikhail Williamson came in right behind him with a time of 6.96. In the third qualifying race LIU gained another two spots by graduate student Nickolei Mahlung who ran at 6.83 and senior Brian Richards with a time of 6.95. The fourth and final preliminary race saw yet another Blackbird as senior Jamal Roberts crossed the line in second place with a time of 7.00. The five-runner turnout increased Long Island’s chances of winning in the finals. The men’s 200-meters would also lead to more Blackbirds success, this time with four qualifying athletes. Sophomore Mikhail Williamson finished in first with a time of 22.50 in the second qualifying round and in the third race Jamal Roberts won the race in 22.47 seconds. LIU also won the sixth and seventh preliminaries with times of 21.95 and 22.02 by Brendon Rodney and Richards. The men’s 400-meter preliminary event would go a bit different for LIU only having one qualifying athlete. In the sixth race Roberts secured a spot for LIU with a time of 51.07; he finished that race in first place. The 500-meters qualifying race gave LIU a chance to bounce back and that they did; as four players crossed the line with qualifying times in the first race. Freshman, Mica-Jonathan Petiti-Hommes finished in second place with a time of 1:05.67 getting LIU off to a good start. In the third race senior, Chris Welch won with a time of 1:06.13. The fourth race would see similar results from sophomore Alistar McLean with a time of 1:07.10 and in the fifth and final

race classmate Andi Augustin finished with a time of 1:06.91. During the Men’s 60-Meters Hurdle preliminaries, two athletes attempted to qualify for the event however only one successfully completed the task. Richards won the second preliminary with a time of 8.30. In the long jump events Richards would repeat as Champion with a length of 7.22 meters. This win would give LIU ten points towards the standings. For the women, LIU once again dominated another event, as three players qualified in the 60-Meter semifinal. In the first race, sophomore, Bryanna Williams placed first with a time of 7.61. In the second race freshman, Ja’ Mesha Richard and senior, Amber Mitchell earned first and second place with times of 7.60 and 7.73. Long Island dominated this qualifier with four athletes running fast enough

to compete later on. In the second of seven preliminary races freshman, Anise Cuffee finished with a time of 25.54. The next three races after would bring more fortune to LIU with freshman, Josephine Watson who placed with a time of 25.58, Richard with 25.36, and sophomore Shakia Williams with 25.66 all qualifying. Watson and Williams represented LIU well in the women’s 400-meter preliminary event with times of 58.97 and 59.38. Watson won her race and Williams qualified by finishing in second place in the fourth race. During the women’s 500-Meter preliminary, sophomore, Katrina Anderson blew away the competition finishing in first place with a time of 1:16.97. Out of all four races Anderson placed with the fastest time.

Freshman, Shanice Grant and Richards out hustled the competition to finish with the top two times in the preliminaries. In the second of three races Grant finished in first with a time of 8.71. Richards won her race as well; with a time of 8.79. In the women’s high jump LIU’s freshman, Kyaira Wright-Harmon jumped 1.70 meters and earned second place, she also scored eight points for LIU. Williams finished in third place in the women’s long jump with a leap of 5.43 and also scored six points for her effort.

The Blackbirds return to the track on

The Blackbirds return to the track on March 2 and 3 for the ECAC/IC4A Championships at the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center held in Boston, Mass.

Sophomore Mikhail competes at eventPhoto Credit: LIU Atheletics Department

Seawanhaka Press | ww

w.SeawanhakaPress.com

| FEBRUARY 14, 2013

19

The Blackbirds 2013 softball season began this past weekend at the Dot Richardson National

Collegiate Softball Invitational in Clermont, Florida. In a disappointing opening, the Blackbirds fell to Fordham 6-14 and Virginia Tech 1-9 on the first day of the Invitational. Chattanooga and Southern Illinois also defeated Long Island 4-6 and 2-4 on the second and third day of the competition.

The Fordham Rams jumped out to an early and commanding 8-0 lead through the first 3 1/2 innings. The Blackbirds showed signs of life in the bottom half of the third when they got on the scoreboard after Lauren Morizi, Nichole Toven, and Karina Cervantes drove in three runs off singles to make the game 8-3.

In the top half of the sixth, the Rams blew away LIU’s chances of a comeback as they tacked on six more runs including two homeruns that made the score 14-5. The Blackbirds managed to get one more run, but Fordham took the match with the run-rule win.

Senior Emily Kakuska had a perfect day at the plate against the Rams going 4-4. The senior even drove in LIU’s lone run in the nightcap match against Virginia Tech that gave her club the lead. It didn’t take long for the Hokies to score six runs in the bottom half of the first and put the Blackbirds in a huge hole.

The Blackbird’s starting pitcher Heather White threw for 4 1/2 innings, and allowed nine runs and 11 walks.

The Following day, the Blackbirds came out strong and took an early 4-0 lead against Chattanooga. The Mocs slowly started coming back in the bottom of the third tacking on two runs off a single from Jenny Garcia that put the score at 4-2.

LIU had trouble scoring more runs and left two runners on base in the top of the fourth, Chattanooga hit an RBI groundout and pulled within one. In the bottom half of the fifth, Chattanooga scored three unanswered runs that made the difference as Long Islands opponent took a 6-4 lead.

The Mocs’ pitcher Taylor Deason did an outstanding job for her club not allowing anymore runs from LIU and threw for 10 strikeouts with no walks through 5 1/2 innings.

On the final day of the invitational, the Blackbirds were down early as Southern Illinois grabbed a 2-0 lead in the second and added two more runs in the fourth that made the game 4-0.

The Blackbirds started clawing their way back into the game in the sixth when Cervantes brought in Whitney West to score with a triple. Toven cut the Salukis’ lead in half when she hit an RBI single that brought in Cervantes and changed the scoreboard to 4-2.

LIU had a chance to tie the game up in the seventh, but failed to capitalize. Southern Illinois went to their bullpen and brought in Lang who shut out the Blackbirds and threw two strikeouts to capture the win.

The Blackbirds compete again Feb. 15-17 at the Florida Atlantic Kickoff Tournament in Boca Raton, Fla.

Junior Lauren Morizi Photo Credit: LIU Athletics Department

BLACKBIRDS OPEN ON A SOUR NOTE BY JOHN TOLIS

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAYFROM THE BLACKBIRD