Transforming Medical Education for a New Generation

pulsemag 1 pulse magazine

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Gillie Houston

MANAGING EDITOR Dear Readers, Brielle Basso “Immigrant” is one of the most prominent and complex words in the current American political and cultural lexicon. A rich and diverse debate for Long Islanders and the nation as a INSIDETHIS ISSUE ASSIGNING EDITOR whole, there’s no doubt you’ve heard the topic of immigration being discussed in your workplaces, schools, publications, Dana Gibbs grocery stores. When we set out to make an issue revolving around the topic of immigration, it seemed at first a daunting task—and COPY EDITORS in many ways still does. However, as we began to reach out 4 America Without to the community, gathering stories of immigrants and their Jenna Grasso supporters alike, a clearer view of the immigrant impact began Immigrants Kristin Marzullo to form. 15 Writing the Future From our cover subject, Margarita Espada, who has done Rachel Carruthers extensive work with immigrant artists in her community, to 16 Margarita Espada the many other perspectives within this issue, each voice con- tributes to one important idea: we are all immigrants. Ameri- 12 On the Airwaves ART DIRECTOR ca, the young country it is, was born and made by immigrants, 16 Ellis Island and still today, the immigrant contribution—to culture, to Joe Ibraham sports, to community—provides an important and invaluable 19 Shaun Foster richness to our lives. We hope this issue informs, enlightens and engages you 21 Richard Nuttall ASST. ART DIRECTOR to take a new, open and inclusive view of the immigrant im- 22 Hofstra Athletes: Q&A Maggie Stamets pact that permeates our lives in surprising ways. 25 Koreatown (Photo Essay) Sincerely, 28 Keeping the Culture PHOTO EDITOR Gillie Houston 30 Queens: A World of Editor-in-Chief Nadia Lindstrom Immigrants

32 Long Island by the ONLINE EDITORS Numbers Christina Ferraro 33 Camp America Meghan Fitzgerald 34 Asian Fashion 36 Tastes of Long Island BUSINESS MANAGER 38 Belmont Gives Back Hannah Richman PULSE MAGAZINE ADVERTISING MANAGER Willie Robinson 28 Stories of Immigrant Impact

CIRCULATION Elisha McNeil Joe Zapata Sam Scolarici 2 pulsemag 3 WILLIE ROBINSON

Writingthe Future.

Study World Corporation has been “writing your future” since 1976. The program, “Moving Language without immigrants. Ahead”, encourages international students to engage in a two-week study abroad program to the United States to im- AMERICA prove their English and give them knowledge of the United States history, while enjoying the beauty of New York City. This summer, Study World Corporation extended will consume 1,500 of these wonders good laugh? Try Google, the worlds their services to Hofstra University for the second year in JOE IBRAHAM before graduating high school. most popular search engine and Inter- a row, inviting over 600 Italian students to reside on the Keep holding it down, kids. net Company. Sergey Brin, a Russian campus for a two-week span. Each group varied from 15 to immigrant, co-founded the corpora- 60 students between the ages of 12 to 19 years old. The 40-Hour Workweek – wait. Let’s tion with Michigan native Larry Page The program’s schedule required students to have a here is an abundance of truly forget America started that one. in 1988 in an effort to better analyze day devoted to lessons every other day during their stay. TAmerican things. Pieces and pas- the relationships between websites. As The lesson day is an eight-hour school day followed by times embraced and bred by Ameri- America has bred greatness, but you’d of October 2014, Google is valued at partaking in a sport of their choice, varying from soccer cans. be surprised to know that not all $107.4 billion, although many Ameri- to yoga. On the days the students were not in school, they seemingly American things are actu- cans wouldn’t hesitate to call it a price- were granted the opportunity to explore New York City, cheap. Chuck Taylor shoes are $90 in American money in ally the work of an American. In fact, less commodity. visiting sights including the Empire State Building, Central Italy, here, I only pay $40. There are so many stores that I Barbeques and Budweiser, “The Great immigrants have introduced many of Park, 5th Ave, Liberty Island and SoHo. They also visited now like such as Urban Outfitters and Uniqlo. And Star- American Lager”, has been around the things America has come to know LEVI JEANS Philadelphia and Boston. After these sightseeing days, the bucks coffee is delightful! We only have one Starbucks since 1876, when it began brewing in and love. Take a look: students attended a “disco” which was a night of festivities coffee in Italy that I know and it is really far. I do not like St. Louis, Missouri. Beers and barbe- There isn’t anything quite like a nice including trivia games and dancing. that the cigarettes are so much money, but I buy anyway,” que… what a beautiful combination SHOPPING MALLS pair of Levi’s, right? From boot cut Lisa Martina, a student of the MLA World Study said Marchetti. those two are. to skinny, owning a pair of jeans is program, enjoyed being on Hofstra University’s campus The students who attended the study abroad program After studying architecture in his common-place for Americans. These and is looking into perusing her college career on the cam- have not only gained an amazing experience, but developed Thanksgiving, which you can thank home country of Vienna, Austria, famous jeans got their start in the pus. a wide range of new-found friendships. Unfortunately, the party at Plymouth Rock in pres- Victor Gruen emmigrated to the United States when German immi- “I was born in the city of Cremona in Italy. Attending there was a slight division between students from Northern ent-day Massachusetts for, has been United States in 1938, after his country grant Levi Strauss came to the country MLA was my first time being in the U.S and I love it” Mar- Italy and Southern Italy. Francesco La Monte from North- making families dribble and drool in was annexed by Germany. Soon after, in 1847 to join his two brothers Jonas tina said with enthusiasm. ern Italy explained the separation saying, “It’s not that we late November since 1621. We owe Gruen moved to Los Angeles to open and Louis in selling dry goods. After “I learned well the American pronunciation as well as do not like each other, it is just a different thing.” that to the pilgrims. his own architectural firm. In 1954, he moving to Kentucky to help sell their slang. I want to attend university in America, maybe Hofst- “In the North, it is more fast pace, and the fashion is designed the first suburban open-air product, Strauss eventually took his ra. It is so different from Italy,” said Martina. more better. We really do not have much in common, but Peanut butter and jelly sandwich- shopping facility called Northland business to the West Coast and opened Giulia Alice also enjoyed her experience at MLA Study during the MLA program I have made friends with some es, were introduced by Julia Davis Mall in Detroit, Michigan. The design Levi Strauss & Co. in San Francisco, World at Hofstra. Southern students. They are different but they are nice and Chandler in 1901 and have been was successful, and the rest is history. California. There, he began to produce “I am from Rome and this was my first time in Amer- we get along well,” said Monte. satisfying American stomachs for over Up until the 1970’s, Gruen and his the famous blue jeans America knows ica. I learned a lot of new vocabulary and I improved my The activity leaders of the MLA Study World a century. In fact, the National Peanut firm designed over 50 shopping malls so well today. English pronunciation. It was very useful. I met so many program worked hard on making sure that the students felt Board (yes, it across the United States. new people. Americans, and a lot of people I did not know comfortable with their stay. The international students em- exists) says that The list of immigrant contributions in my home town. I want to visit soon.” braced the American culture and left with new experiences, the average child “GOD BLESS AMERICA” goes on and on. Our Presidents, for ex- For Andres Petri, the program was an opportunity new friends and suitcases full of new clothes. The relation- ample, owe it to Irish architect James of a lifetime and an honor. Andres lived in Maryland for ship between the activity leaders and students impacted If you’ve ever been to a baseball game, Hoban for designing the White House. two years while his father was enrolled in the military. the students who that said their confidence increased since you’ve probably heard the song “God Thank you, James. “It was so nice to be in the U.S. again. My father is joining the program. Some students came into the program Bless America”. It’s beautiful, isn’t in the military so growing up we traveled often. I lived in very shy and timid and left with a handful of new friends. it? We have Irving Berlin, a Russian Our beloved Santa Claus, the man the U.S for two years, which explains my English being for MLA Study World gives international students immigrant, to thank for that. Berlin who brings us gifts in return for cook- fluent than the other MLA students. The best thing about the opportunity to study at various schools in New York. and his family emigrated from Russia ies and milk, might not be around to the U.S is the opportunity. In Italy it is very hard to find They base every summer at different schools in New York, to New York City in 1893, where he slide down our chimneys if it weren’t work after high school. Our economy at the moment is not as well as in California and London. The program is one of began his songwriting career. for the Dutch bringing “Sinterklaas” so well. I miss living in the U.S and attending school there many due to its high demand and costly tuition. A percent- to the New World colonies. Thank and watch my father support the U.S.A. in the military. He age of the proceeds from this program are given to Hofstra GOOGLE you, Netherlands. is giving back to the society and balance a lot because he is University. The outcome is a hope to increase the amount in the army. I hope to visit again one day,” said Petri. of international students at Hofstra University and to give Where do you go when you need And thank you immigrants. Roberto Marchetti’s favorite part about coming to Hofstra a world round buzz. answers, homework help, or a America was the shopping. “I love to shop in Italy, but in America it is way more

4 pulsemag 5 Margarita

E SPADAThe Art of Social Change

GILLIE HOUSTON

Though it may look like a common weed, the yerba bruja, a leafy green plant that grows in the Puerto Rican countryside, is said to contain magical powers—powers to heal, to flourish, to thrive even in the harshest and most unwelcoming of conditions. When Margarita Espada, then a young undergrad studying theater, education, and union organization at Puer- to Rico University, was searching for a name for her fledg- ling theater company, she wanted something that would rep- resent not only her homeland, but also the unique challenges of working with theater for social change. One symbol came to mind: the unrelenting yerba bruja. Over a decade later, when Espada would move her company, Teatro Experimental Yerbabruja, to her new home on Long Island, she couldn’t have predicted how deeply that symbol of persistence, assimilation, and survival would per- vade her work and life—as an activist, a teacher, a mother, a community organizer, and most importantly, an artist. Margarita Espada’s home, situated on a quiet street in Central Islip, New York is bright and open, filled with cool fall air and mid-afternoon light drifting in through the cracked windows. Espada herself, offering an open smile and a kiss on the cheeks hello, is as warm as her living room walls, painted in shades of yellow and orange and covered in relics of her travels—masks, artwork, and memorabilia that reflect a life well-traveled and a deep appreciation for the culture that lies far beyond this corner of Long Island. Born in Aibonito, a small mountain town in the Cayey mountain range of Puerto Rico, Espada discovered early on her passion for the arts. “In Puerto Rico, art and culture is very important. We are always dancing, everything is very colorful, everything is about expression.” Spending most of her life in Villa Palmeras, a sector of Margarita Espada Photo: Gillie Houston pulsemag 6 7 FEATURE | MARGARITA ESPADA

the Puerto Rican capital of San Juan, Espada grew up the move to a town that had a reputation for gang violence and from Puerto Rico, so I really consider myself an immigrant. middle child of five siblings, and found her unique identity racial tensions, Espada says, “We have a lot of social issues, Because of my cultural experience, I see things through the through the theater. but I wanted the diversity. You walk around and have peo- filter of my Puerto Rican experience,” Espada says. “I grew up in a neighborhood that was really strug- ple of different shapes and colors. And for me, as a Latina “But after 20 years here, you become in between. You gling, and for some reason I always had this art inside of coming from Puerto Rico where we are very diverse, this start to grow roots here, you understand the system, you me.” was very important.” understand the culture, and you start to assimilate. Half of She went on to get her Bachelor’s in Theater and Now divorced and a single mother to her two chil- you is in one place, and half of you is in another; it’s a very Education at Puerto Rico University in 1990, though also dren, Mariana Lima, 23, who is currently studying at difficult experience to try to stay balanced, to embrace who drawn to the idea of becoming a lawyer for social justice. University of Puerto Rico, and Malcom Bunce, 15, Espada you are in a new way.” She considered studying law, but “the call for the art was recalls her shock at arriving in Central Islip years ago to All around her, Espada found other artists and stronger.” discover there was no art center and virtually no artistic community members struggling with this notion of dual After earning her degree, Espada began to seek new outlets in the town. cultural identities. She also began to witness first hand the ways to grow her knowledge and appreciation of the theat- But perhaps most troubling were the issues within struggles of immigrants on Long Island and the segregation rical arts. the political system, including the insufficient allocation that has so heavily plagued the area for so many years. She formed Teatro Experimental Yerbabruja, opening of public funds to social and artistic efforts. “As a person “Being from Puerto Rico, because we’re so mixed, a theater space in San Juan that thrived for 10 years, while with a lot of social understanding of how the system works, there was not a strong presence of segregation in my life,” simultaneously traveling around the world to follow and I felt there was a lot of neglect through the history of this she says. “Coming here, suddenly I’ve become Latina, and learn first-hand from masters of the form. I need to behave a certain way and have these expectations Selected to go to Cuba in the 90s to meet all of the placed on me to fill this category. So it was very hard for me masters of Latin American theater, Espada’s desire to travel to understand that; why do I have to be a category? and learn from her influencers grew from there, taking her I’m Puerto Rican; I’m Latina; I’m whatever. I’m a from Denmark to study under Theater Anthropology’s Eu- “I had no idea what human being.” genio Barba, to international festivals and events in Europe, Though tensions were already high over racial segre- Columbia, Peru, the Dominican Republic, and beyond. gation on Long Island, they came to a climax in November However, when Espada began to look into Masters of 2008, with the murder of Marcelo Lucero, a 37-year-old programs to further develop her craft, her sights turned to Long Island was” Ecuadorian immigrant and victim of a mob beating and New York, the theatrical center of the universe. fatal stabbing at the hands of a white 17-year-old Patchogue high school student with a history of targeting immigrants “I had no idea what Long Island was,” she says, and Hispanics in particular with threats of violence. smiling wryly. But, after being offered a full scholarship to community.” The murder ignited a wave of debate across the com- the State University of New York at Stony Brook to study Espada decided then and there that munities of Long Island, who began to confront the deeply Dramaturgy, Espada packed her bags. Later, after thriving she would make it her mission to revive rooted segregation issues that had for so long been swept in her graduate studies, Espada was offered a position at the artistic spirit within the community. under the rug. The political and social conversation that Stony Brook teaching theater and Latin American stud- “I thought, ‘everything is for a rea- had for years been spoken only in whispers was now being ies. son.’ I’m here, this is my call: to organize shouted about from all sides, revealing the dormant hostili- Following her graduation, Espada returned the art,” she says. “[Central Islip] is always ties and conflict over Long Island’s historically segregation- to Puerto Rico for a time, but returned to Long portrayed with negativity. But there’s a lot al culture. Island in 2000 for good. Having now married of richness in this community and a lot of An already active voice for the immigrant and artistic and had her first child, she sought a place to positivity here that they don’t get a chance to communities of Long Island and a member of the Long raise her family, settling on the hamlet of showcase.” Island Immigrant Alliance, Espada will never forget that Central Islip. Armed with a keen knowledge of public time. “I decided I wanted to raise policy, Espada began reaching out to every elected “When the hate crime happened, I was paralyzed,” my kids in a community that official she could get a hold of, demanding to know she says. “I was in shock, I felt angry, and I thought, you Margarita Espada was more diverse. I’m a city where the arts funding was. “I understand budget, I know what? I need to respond.” Photo: Gillie Houston person. I grew up in the understand how money’s allocated, and asked, what Seeing the opportunity to merge her art and activism, city, and for some reason percent of budget is allocated to the arts?” Espada immediately thought, “Let’s put this on stage. We Central Islip had this Gaining little ground by way of political aid, Espa- need to talk about this. This is insane—no one is talking, ev- diversity,” she says. da decided to take matters into her own hands, reviving eryone is screaming, one side at the other. We had this opportunity to talk about the issue, to do something to really create Though Teatro Experimental Yerbabruja in a new form and new change. So I said, okay, let’s do a play.” some ques- location, making it their mission to “advance cultural un- Espada didn’t know going into the project what kind of play she was crafting. A student and teacher of experimental tioned derstanding within the diverse Long Island communities... theater, she knew right away that she wanted to craft an unconventional production with a bilingual cast of non-actors Espada’s by using the theatrical and other performing and visual arts from around the community, in order to “give a voice to the community, a voice to the people who don’t have the oppor- deci- as tools to promote constructive social change; and to pro- tunity to talk.” sion vide opportunities for emerging and established artists.” She set out researching and talking to community members, gathering stories of struggle and immigration, and lis- to However, adapting her creative work to the Ameri- tening to first-hand accounts of hate crimes and racial harassment. can environment wasn’t always easy. Though technically “I had the opportunity, and big responsibility, to work with these people. I’m not undocumented, so hearing their a United States citizen, Espada says, “I’m Puerto Rican stories opened a whole new door for me,” Espada says. “Yes, I’ve experienced racism, but still I can open my mouth, go to

8 pulsemag 9 FEATURE | MARGARITA ESPADA

every place, have a license. Their experience was different, the attention to the audience. “As a director I said, ‘stop. I doesn’t like to dwell long on the awards and accolades; “When people do art, they are connected. That’s why and they really educated me about that.” don’t have an ending. I don’t have a solution either.’ And she’d much rather talk about the art. people use art to organize.” And organize, she has. The narrative of the play was formed around the idea I asked the audience to give us a solution. Theater does “Art is my religion. It’s where I get my spirituality— Like the yerba bruja plant freckling the hillsides of of two communities, one Latino and Spanish-speaking, and not just exist to show you life, but to create a possibility to doing art in so many places, and having the opportunity Puerto Rico, withstanding intense heat and almost unliv- the other non-Latino and English-speaking. rehearse a new reality.” to get to work with so many artists from different back- able conditions, adapting to whatever challenges threaten There was a language barrier among many of her With this approach, Espada opened up a poignant and grounds.” to harm it, Margarita Espada, too, has learned to adapt, to cast members, creating a unique challenge for Espada as a important line of dialogue about immigration and segrega- In addition to her continued work with Teatro Exper- survive, to thrive. playwright and director. “I did a lot of work to put the cast tion across a diverse range of communities. imental Yerbabruja, Espada wears many other hats around A voice for the immigrant community and a champion together and to get them to understand each other,” she “As an artist, working with this kind of theater, you the community. On top of being an community organiz- of artistic expression and education, Espada has withstood says. “We all changed through the process. It was hard, and have a big responsibility. You can’t just go into a communi- er and mother, Espada recently directed Stony Brook’s it all—a community in strife, a lasting history of segrega- we’re totally different people because of the way the play ty and agitate or give a big speech,” she says. By partnering Theater Arts Department projection of “Life is a Dream,” tion, an unimaginable hate crime, and a challenge to bring a was created.” with panels of experts and inviting audiences to speak up, getting the chance to infuse a classic work with her experi- voice to the voiceless. Yerbabruja partnered with a half-dozen community Espada created a work of art that asked, what is the next mental, visceral style. Through this and more, Espada has risen above and organizations from around Long Island, including the step towards creating a more equal, open society? Incorporating multimedia and digital technology, the prevailed, using art and the passion that flourished within Immigrant Alliance, in order to create an authentic and Written about in publications from “Newsday” to the production was able to merge modern influences with the her from her earliest moments of childhood, to bring a clear thought provoking project that would inform, inspire, and “New York Times,” “What Killed Marcelo Lucero?” was classic art of theater—a marriage Espada eagerly explores and resounding sense of hope, life, lasting dialogue, and a huge social success for Espada and Teatro Experimental in her work. mutual understanding Yerbabruja, which has, in recent years, taken a greater roll Additionally, to her community. in the Long Island arts community. Espada and her mentor, “Art is language. It The company, in addition to currently working on a Stony Brook Theater dips into your soul and new social theater production focusing on women’s issues, Chair John Lutterbie, “Art is my religion.” crosses cultures, across has done work in schools, through their Art in Education have also partnered everything. When we Program, working with educators to emphasize the essen- together on research to experience art, there’s tial roll of the arts in school. advance the knowledge something in our souls, They have also collaborated for many years to put on of how theater can be partnered with physical therapy, in our brains that connect us to something bigger,” Espada the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Day Parade, and will soon open particularly in regards to aiding those with Parkinson’s and says, smiling. “I like to change people through art, and to Downtown Islip’s first arts center, a longtime dream and Autism. help them understand that art is not a privilege; everyone passion project Espada is thrilled is finally coming to life. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for me,” Espada says, should have access to it.” The arts center will have a gallery, a performance “because now I’m working with neurologists, psychiatrists, Sitting in her living room, surrounded by relics of space, and an outside museum and community garden, and because we have so much technology now, we can re- her life and lit up with the glow of sunlight and proud where they will be able to hold workshops, classes, perfor- ally see how the brain is working according to theater. It’s a reflection, she pauses, letting her final words ring out. Eyes mances, presentations and exhibitions. privilege for me to be in a place with all this curiosity about bright, she laughs at the sentiment—knowing it to be corny, “It is in Central Islip, but the idea is to engage this dia- how the actor brain works and how the theater can benefit but undeniably true: logue through the whole island and beyond,” Espada says. people from within.” “I think through art, you can change the world.” “It’s a place where everyone is welcome. It’s not a Latino And above all, Espada enjoys her work as a professor, center; it’s an arts center—that’s very important to me.” enabling her to pass on her passion for theater to a new Currently renovating their location at 63 Carlton Ave. generation. in Islip in preparation for their grand opening and 10 year “I like to teach, I like to share, and was blessed to have anniversary celebration on December 12, 2014 - which is good mentors in my life,” she says. “You receive and you open to the public—Yerbabruja is looking for grants and give, it’s a social responsibility. That’s my philosophy in life donations from the community. “To support us is really to and in my studies and my work. Sometimes community create art for social change,” Espada says. members say, ‘Thank you. How can I repay you?’ And I “I want to give everyone the opportunity to celebrate say, ‘you don’t have to do anything for me. The next person art,” Espada says, who aims to make Yerbabruja the heart that needs something, do something for them, and it’s a of the Long Island artistic community, and a place “not chain of change.’” foster a significant discussion across audiences. only to represent art, but also to administrate art and to That change is exactly what Espada attempts to create The play, “What Killed Marcello Lucero?” put on pro- professionalize art.” in every project she takes on, from “What Killed Marce- ductions all over Long Island and New York City, inviting In response to her admirable work in the artistic and lo Lucero,” to the art center, to engaging the community audiences to participate in an impromptu discussion about immigrant communities across Long Island, Espada has through art and civic discussion. immigration and social change. been recognized with over two dozen service awards from For Margarita Espada, art is not merely a form of “I made a distinction between Marcello, the personal public officials, offices, and organizations, including the expression, but a vehicle for significant dialogue and lasting story, and the social issue—which is power, which is struc- Long Island Progressive Coalition (Long Islander Who change. ture and institutionalized racism,” Espada says. “I wanted Has Made A Difference, 2014), the Working Families Party “When you have an opportunity to express yourself to explore how we stereotype communities.” (Community Advocate of the Year, 2010), and the Latin through art, not only do you get to work with others, but For more information about the work of Margarita At the height of the action of the play, following the American Chamber of Commerce of New York (Woman of you start to understand yourself also. You have this conver- Espada and Teatro Experimental Yerbabruja, or to donate, graphic portrait of Lucero’s murder, and the riots and pro- the Year, 2006). sation with yourself, and are in balance and contact with go to http://www.teatroyerbabruja.org/. tests that followed, Espada would stop the play and turn However, though grateful for the recognition, Espada yourself.

10 pulsemag 1111 Fiona Ritchie with Scottish musicians Ricky Fiona Ritchie in the studio. Ross and Julie Fowlis. ON THE AIRWAV E S : ELISHA MCNEIL

Dahved Levy in the studio with reggae artist I-Octane From: Perthshire, Scotland Radio Show: Thistle and Shamrock, WFUV 90.7 FM Age: 54 FIONA Profession: Radio Broadcaster, Producer, Writer RITCHIE Christine Quinn, speaker of the NYC City Council, honoring Levy with a Proclamation from her office. How did you get involved in radio? I was a student in Carolina I used to go out and visit different radio stations Scotland, where I’m from, I came over to North Carolina to across the U.S. Even when I went back to Scotland, I would study for one semester. I came back to Scotland to finish up still come back to the U.S. and visit different stations and my studies and then I thought, “I’ll go back to the States for do events for them. So, I’ve had opportunities to travel to From: Bridgetown, Barbados a little while.” When I went back over I got involved in pub- every corner of the U.S., and do events with radio stations lic radio and really loved it. I was working at a radio station in Alaska, Louisiana, upstate New York, all over the place. Radio Show: Caribbean Fever, WBLS 107.5 FM and mostly helping promote the station, doing fundraising, I’ve met people in quite far, quite remote locations and Age: 100 plus minus a day so that I know that nice people like you would DAHVED and all kinds of things. Somebody said “Well, why don’t learn what radio means to them. That’s what has been the never pass away. you do a program with music from where you’re from?” I most amazing for me – getting to know people in the most Profession: Real estate, author, promoter (I’m doing everything to keep the had some recordings I could play and started a couple of remote parts of the U.S., especially going to Alaska, which lights on and not go to jail.) little programs with music from over here [Scotland], and was just amazing. It’s been great. That’s a tremendous gift LEVY people really liked it. So I started to do a weekly program. that the radio program has given me, the chance to do a lot Pretty soon somebody said “You know, I think people of traveling. would like this beyond North Carolina.” So we started What are some goals that you’ve met with your radio How does the music on your show enlarge the cultural making the program more available and it got picked up How do you feel knowing that you have an internationally broadcasting career? When I was a young man going to contribution in the area? The music on my show enlarges for national broadcast pretty soon after. known radio program? I think it’s amazing that so many City College and going to school, my idol was a guy called the culture in the area in a very significant way because people over the years have connected with me through the Frankie Crocker on the radio. I would go to his concerts our show is Caribbean based. That means they’re including How long have you been broadcasting? Forever! It’s been radio. And I think it’s a total privilege that so many radio and go to his parties. I said, “One day, I want to do big French Caribbean, Spanish Caribbean, English Caribbean, here nationally around the U.S. since 1983. stations have given up an hour of their precious air time to concerts.” So I ended up doing shows at Madison Square Dutch Caribbean, Indo Caribbean, African music and Afro the radio program. I think it’s amazing. Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the new Barclay’s Center Pop. New York City has the largest population of Carib- What is something that you feel you’ve accomplished in Brooklyn, the Apollo Theater and the Beacon Theater. bean people outside of the Caribbean. Our show is on a through your show? I like to think that before there was any How does the music on your show enlarge the cultural Those are a lot of things that I always dreamed of doing. To major radio station, BLS, one of the top three radio stations internet – you can do music in so many ways right now, contribution in this area? A lot of people in the U.S. might be able to do big concerts, big events and big parties. I’ve in New York. It’s the home of Steve Harvey; it’s where you can go online, YouTube, listen to Spotify, or you can have roots that go back to Scotland or Ireland, so I think done that a few times over. Wendy Williams came from. So not only am I speaking to stream radio stations from all over for people who have got roots over the Caribbean people, I’m speaking to the American people. the world – but before people could here the music means a lot to them. You’ve interviewed people from Bill Cosby to Donald It has a big impact, a huge impact; because what happens do that, people would only turn on But I like to hope that people enjoy Trump. Who was your favorite? I got a lot of them, but in New York funnels out to all the other places in the world. whatever radio they could pick up you can do music hearing music that sounds like it’s two stand out right now. I interviewed Minister Farrakhan Everybody’s watching what’s going on in New York. We in their own town. It wasn’t so easy from somewhere that’s got a kind of and Winnie Mandela. I interviewed Hillary Clinton and are in the city that has the people who shape minds, who for people to hear different kinds of in so many ways authentic feel about it. I hope that Bill Clinton. But Minister Farrakhan - that interview was are the trendsetters, and the motivators. So we believe that music. So I like to think I helped some anybody can get enjoyment out of lis- good. The interview with Winnie Mandela where I inter- when we’re on the radio and we’re giving our news and people to discover music and sort of right now. tening to music that sort of transports viewed her in her home in Shilalo, in South Africa. Going to our information and our entertainment, that it reaches open up a new world of music for them to a different place. I hope that Nelson Mandela’s home and knocking on the door and all the Caribbean people. And then those Caribbean people, a lot of people. And now they can what I’ve been able to do is contribute that stuff. All these things are the greatest things - being in they’ll reach out to their family and friends at home in the access it easily themselves, so I like to some really good authentic sounding South Africa, being in Senegal, being in Ethiopia, being in Caribbean. So it has a three full effect. We’re reaching the think that I introduced people to music that they’ve grown music that transports people out of their everyday life and Egypt. I’ve travelled all over the world because of my radio Caribbean people here, and then influencing non-Caribbean to love. gives them an opportunity to hear music that gives them a station. people who might be interested - who might have gone to chance to connect to a different place. So, I hope I’ve been Barbados, Jamaica or St. Lucia for a vacation - and love the What is one of the many great things about doing the able to put that sort of feeling into what I do and keep it on music and the culture. So it has impacted tremendously. show? There’s so many! When I was living in North the radio.

12 pulsemag 13 Nino and Rosa in the studio during the Italian marathon.

Nino poses as he hosts Ciao Italy. Alex Sensation DJ’ing in a night club.

From: Bogotá, Columbia From: Bari, Italy Radio Show: La Mezcla, MEGA 97.9 FM Radio Show: Ciao Italy, WRHU 88.7 FM Age: 36 ALEX Age: (Rosa) 59 (Nino) 63 ROSA Profession: On-Air personality, Producer, Profession: (Rosa) Retired. (Nino) Assistant Superintendent at Cedar Grove Professional DJ, Artist SENSATION Cemetery & NINO

Did you know this was what you wanted to do? Were you 100 percent. I go on the air4 hours a day and I perform for How did Ciao Italy come about? (Nino) When I came in The marathon means they’re funding for the radio station always into music? Well, as any Latin person, we love four hours. I have to mix live. I have to speak live. I use a lot this country about 40 years ago, I was tuning some radio because this is a non-commercial radio station. Once a year music. Not only that, everybody loves music - but especial- of my energy. So it’s a live show you’re getting, a live show station that played Italian songs. I was amazed to listen to we ask our listeners to donate. We open up all the doors in ly Latinos. Our lives revolve around music. I really never four hours a day. And I have to do that all year round, non- some songs but I was disappointed. They never brought our studio so people can come inside and see what we’re knew this was for me or I never thought that I was going stop, year after year.. So you have to be there mentally and back from Italy the latest, like the new artists and the new doing – especially the way we program and the way we act to end up here. I basically just stumbled upon it. I started mentally prepare for that. songs. So after the years I created some kind of ambition behind the mic. So that day of the marathon, they’ll be able first DJing clubs when I was young. Through the clubs to create my own show. So after so many years, finally, my to come personally into the studio and see exactly what’s I got hired in radio. One of the program directors of the Do you have any future plans beyond La Mezcla? The next dream came true and I created the show Ciao Italy Top 40. going on. And if they want to pledge, why not? radio station was in the club one night and he liked what I step would be my artist side. I’ve been, for about a year and My show is only what’s on the charts in Italy. So whatever did. He liked my style of playing and he offered me a job a half, producing an album with different big artists in the comes out today, tomorrow – I have that. My show is to What artist influences you the most? (Rosa) My favorite and that’s how I got into radio. It’s just opportunities. God streets and will be releasing that album in 2015. I want to be bring everything that’s going on in Italy today to American is Patty Pravo and the song Pazza Idea. (Nino) I grew up opened the door for me and I just went ahead and took ad- the first Latin DJ to take advantage of what DJs like David soil. Exactly what’s on the top of the charts, the new songs, with this group in the 60’s when they were nobody. They’re vantage of the opportunity and never turned back. When- Guetta and DJ Khaled did. That’s what the next project will the new singers, all these events coming up in Italy – I’ll called The Pooh. It’s a very romantic group and as of today ever an opportunity came open I just went right ahead and be. Then hopefully maybe in the future some TV; I’ve had bring them over here. I’m very proud because some people, they still produce records after 40, 50 years almost in the took it. propositions for a TV show. But I’ve been busy with radio they’re stuck in the 50s and 60s. This is 2015 almost, so I like business. I’m still stuck with them. But I like the American and my DJ business and just music. So I have to balance it to bring something new. That’s what my show is all about. songs too. In the ‘80s, that was my time. Love it, love it, love What was your main goal when you first started your all out. it. career? As I began doing radio, playing music, and learning What is the best thing about hosting Ciao Italy? (Nino) hands-on, I started helping artists. That’s one of the things How does the music on your show enlarge the cultural con- When you achieve some goal and then they reward you How does the music on your show enlarge the cultural that I love to do is listen to an artist that was getting hot in tribution in the area? One of the things that I learned when – that’s the most important thing in our life because we contribution in this area? (Nino) I always say that music is the streets and in the clubs, but was never on the radio or I was on radio, is how do I attract or how do I cater to these accomplished something. We created something that the the soundtrack of our life. It’s a part of our culture and it’s didn’t have a record deal. I would break them in through different nationalities. You’re living with people from South people recognize. That’s what makes us feel proud and a part of our life, too. We broadcast if something happens my show and I think that’s one of the biggest accomplish- America, Central America, the Caribbean and we all have willing to go ahead. in the community. If we don’t broadcast nobody knows ments that I did at the beginning different music. what’s going on. This could be an event, a dinner dance, of my career. That was one of There are some could be anything. So this is a part of our culture too. To the great things. “each country has their own genres that con- keep you informed of Italia-America and what’s going on nects all of us but in the community. (Rosa) And bring them memories back. What do you consider the best music, their own culture.” then each country “I always say the mu- That’s what we do, that’s what we bring back: memories for thing about what you do? I love has their own mu- people. what I do so if you ever get a chance to see me live or if you sic, their own culture. So, I started mixing a little bit of each sic is the soundtrack of get to listen to the show, it’s very high energy; it’s a very from the area. It became a show that caters to everyone and good vibe. I try to make people feel welcomed and united. it unites. One of the things that I promote most on the air is our life. It’s part of our I like to cater to my audience in the actual clubs and on the unity within the Latino cultures that live here in the United air. I’m very caring to them and I tend to their needs. I think States. Everybody is on their own team basically. That culture.” that’s one of the best things for me from what I do. means the Columbians, Puerto Ricans, Dominicans, etc. So I’m trying to break that mold and just have all the Latinos How would you describe your life since you’ve become working together, and if music can do that, that’s great. What memory at WRHU sticks out the most? (Rosa) a well-known DJ? It is fun, but you have to have a lot of When we do the marathon and when we see all the discipline. A lot of people just see the glamour and the fun people that come in to donate and support. The day and the partying, but not the discipline. I always have to be of the marathon for us, it’s a big, big event. (Nino)

14 pulsemag 15 The Ellis Island Immigration Museum opened on January 1, 1892. Over 12 million immi- grants were processed here during the influx of immigrants in the late 19th and early to mid- 20th centuries.

Photo: Dana Gibbs

ELLIS ISLANDand the immigrants that made America Ground floor of the Ellis Island facility.

Photographs of the D’Amore family used in research for Life line. (Photo from An Italian American Odyssey by B. Amore)

DANA GIBBS building in 1930, for example, required the help of over in 1919. The man behind the Chef Boyardee brand, Italian 3,400 European immigrant laborers. The construction of the immigrant Ettore “Hector” Boiardi, arrived at Ellis Island GE building at Rockefeller Center also involved the work of aboard the French ship La Lorraine, and was granted entry immigrant laborers in 1932. to the U.S. in 1914. Fashion designer Pauline Trigere, an “We just came to see some history,” said Casandra As well as awe-inspiring architecture, immigrants immigrant from France who came through Ellis Island Zielinski as she walked around the “Silent Voices” exhibit have contributed innovative traditions and customs such in 1937, is often credited for creating the wardrobe styles on the third floor of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum as cuisines, music, and holiday celebrations to the United worn by Patricia Neal in the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The with her husband and children. States. Italian, Jewish, and German restaurants pop up list goes on. Indeed, on Ellis Island you’ll find copious amounts of on almost every corner of New York City, thanks to the Some of these immigrant histories have been studied history. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a relic that immigrants who preserved the dishes that are dear to their extensively and recorded through art and literature. In an holds the history of over 12 million immigrants who came homelands. Irish and Scottish immigrants brought much of exhibit called Life Line – filo della vita, B. Amore, an Ital- to the United States from countries far and near between their musical traditions to the U.S., which have influenced ian-American artist, educator, and writer, researched and 1894 and 1954. today’s folk and bluegrass genres. Even the Columbus Day documented the history of Italian immigrants who came The history doesn’t end Parade, the largest parade in New through Ellis Island. The exhibit was on display on Ellis A female immigrant seamstress at work in a factory. at Ellis Island. Immigrants that York City was started in the U.S. by Island from 2000-2001. The exhibit lives on in book form successfully made it through the Italian immigrant Generoso Pope, as Life line - filo della vita, published in 2006. Amore used island have contributed immense- “tremendous and is now observed as a national three years worth of research; including diary entries, old ly to American society; from their holiday. letters, photographs, interviews and research into the Ellis talents, cultural traditions, all the Even though the total number Island Oral History Project, to convey the stories of Italian way down to the work of their bravery” of immigrants who passed through immigrants that lived during the 20th century. bare hands. Ellis Island is unknown,—those who Amore’s paternal grandfather, Antonio D’Amore, “A lot of buildings that we helped develop the quintessential immigrated to the U.S. from Montefalcione, Italy in 1902. have in the U.S. today were built by immigrants,” noted “American” culture that we enjoy today—only a few be- When he arrived, he settled in Boston with people he knew Tiffany, a 27-year-old visitor from Dallas, Texas as she sat came well known. from Italy. Amore writes in her book, “Cousin Gerald told on a bench on the Ground Floor of the Ellis Island Immi- Actor Charlie Chaplin came to the U.S. from Britain me that Papa Nonno went to work every morning carrying grant Museum. Just walk through the streets of New York through Ellis Island in October of 1912, as a vaudeville his pickaxe and lantern and that he helped dig the Harbor City, and you’ll be exposed to the architecture over which performer. He later became a filmmaker and co-founded Tunnel in Boston and foundations for Harvard Universi- immigrants labored. The construction of the Empire State what is known today as the United Artists Media Group ty.” Her maternal grandmother, Concettina De Lorio, emi-

16 pulsemag 17

Filo della vita: Thread of Life ELLIS ISLAND Filo della vita: Thread of Life

grated from Montefalcione, Province of Avellino, Amore (born Bernadette a town just outside of Naples. De Lorio attended American International College, becoming one in America. B.D’Amore), dubbed the Ma- donna of Ellis Island and Italian Amer- of the few women who went to college in the ican cultural memory by Hofstra Uni- early 20th century. She started a dressmaking business, her designs imitations of Parisian PLAYING versity professor Pellegrino D’Acierno, is the creator of the multi-media travel fashion. De Lorio designed and sewed her own exhibit Life Line, or, as translated in wedding dress, and hoped that her granddaugh- Shaun Foster // Shaun// Shaun Foster // Shaun Foster // Foster Shaun Foster Italian, Filo della vita. The exhibit, ter B. Amore would be able to wear it some day. Shaun Foster: which ran at Ellis Island from 2000- She also made dresses for the Brahmin ladies on 2001 was a compilation of diary en- Beacon Hill, as well as for Mrs. Eldredge, one The goal to stay. tries, old letters, old photos and other of her professors at AIC. She even designed her artifacts she found while researching own wedding dress. “She was a very entrepre- the history of Italian immigrants who neurial woman,” says Amore. “Nonna was the entered the U.S. through Ellis Island. head of the household.” Through her extensive research, she was able to understand D’Amore believes that immigrants bring, CHRISTINA FERRARO her family story in the immigration context and the political “a tremendous energy to American society.” situation that forced Italians to come to the U.S. For many, the three-week journey across Amore was always fascinated by her family history. As the Atlantic Ocean was tough, but if they hadn’t tudents who enter the United States the granddaughter of Italian immigrants from southern Italy, braved it, America would be a totally different to study make up about 1.7 million of Amore grew up hearing the stories of her family’s struggles place. “It took tremendous courage for these im- temporary admissions to our country migrants to leave their homelands,” says Amore, S and accomplishments as immigrants in America. per year. The United States government caps “It was my grandmother who sparked my interest in “And I think they are what keeps American employment-based permanent visas at 140,000 learning about my family history,” says Amore. “She would society invigorated.” per year. Many of these international students tell me about Italy, about the village she lived in, and what want to remain in America, but have a slim she did as a child. And I actually felt like I lived there in Italy, chance. in my head.” Shaun Foster, a Hofstra student from Life Line allowed Amore to realize that what happened Liverpool, England, came to the United States to her family as immigrants in the U.S. was not an isolated to play soccer and earn a degree. After spending situation. “[My family] was part of a larger wave of social Current and Upcoming Exhibitions at the HUM four years here, he decided he wants to stay and history,” she says, “And we are all influenced by the culture Emily Lowe Gallery Behind Lowe Hall, South Campus find his dream job. and history that we are born into, but I hadn’t really fully From Portraits to Tweets: Foster found that with his degree in Rhe- understood that.” Imagery, Technology and the U.S. Presidency* torical Studies and his interest in sports, he has After compiling all of her research, Amore stumbled February 3 - May 8, 2015 more opportunities in America to succeed. “In upon a quote by Luciano de Crescenzo that tied in perfectly Portfolios I • May 26 - August 14, 2015 England there aren’t many paid sporting jobs with the title of her project: David Filderman Gallery outside of the professional tier, here, there are Many immigrants had brought on board balls of yarn, Ninth Floor, Axinn Library, South Campus numerous college positions,” said Foster. “There leaving one end of the line with someone on land. As the ship Exploring the Centuries: 3rd - 20th Century Asian Art are also many more companies in the commu- slowly cleared the dock, the balls unwound amid the farewell Through February 8, 2015 nications department compared to England. In shouts of women, and the fluttering of the handkerchiefs, and The George W. Bush Presidency: Points of Perspective* England there is only five major cities to get a February 23 - April 10, 2015 the infants held high. After the yarn ran out, the long strips job with my degree.” Enduring Images • May 4, 2015 - January 31, 2016 remained airborne, sustained by the wind, long after those on Foster is graduating in December, 2014, land and those at sea had lost sight of each other. *In conjunction with the George W. Bush Presidential Conference, March 23 – 25, 2015 and has run into trouble figuring out a way to The Italian translation of Life Line (Filo della vita) is stay in the U.S. after he graduates. Many foreign “thread of life,” which is symbolized in the quote with the students like Foster, have the same issue, they ball of yarn that the immigrants brought onto the ship. “The want to stay in the United States but cannot quote tied in so succinctly with my inspiration for the proj- obtain the documents they need. ect,” says Amore. “Not only are there more opportunities Life Line became a book in 2006 under the title An Ital- here, I’ve also really enjoyed my time,” said ian American Odyssey: Life Line - filo della vita, through Ellis Foster. (L-R) Gilbert Stuart, Richard’s Portrait of George Washington, 1805-1815; oil on canvas, Museum purchase by contributions from the community Island and Beyond, complete with photographs from the Ellis and friends of Syracuse and Onondaga County as a tribute to the American Bicentennial, PC 76.35. Image courtesy of the Everson Museum of Art. Roy Lichtenstein, Untitled, from the portfolio For Meyer Schapiro, 1974; lithograph and silk screen, HU77.150. © Estate of Roy In order to stay, Foster will need an F-1 Island exhibit. Lichtenstein. Yonia Fain, Uprising, 2008; mixed media on paper, HU2012.23. © Yonia Fain. Optical Practical Training visa which will allow To learn more about B. Amore and Life line, visit These exhibitions are made possible by the New York State Council him to find a job related to his degree. OPT au- on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the bamore.com. New York State Legislature. thorization is authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The authorization Photo by: Tad Merrick Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549 516-463-5672 • www.hofstra.edu/museum FOSTER 18 pulsemag 19 Shaun Foster. Photo by: Christina Ferraro FEATURE | SHAUN FOSTER Richard Nuttall Hofstra Men’s Soccer Coach process can take two to three months to complete and the to apply for a green card could be astronomical. For exam- maximum amount of time granted to work on F-1 OPT ple, in May, 2014, the government processed some employ- status is one year. ment-related visa applications as far back as October 2003. JOE ZAPATA Friends of Foster see that he is a confident speaker Foster said his dream job would be to coach a big soc- and that he could succeed with a Rhetorical Studies degree. cer club in either America or Europe. He has been playing “I saw him speak at the Pele convention in the spring and soccer since he was three years old. He played on Hofstra he absolutely killed it. It would be a shame if he couldn’t University’s Men’s Soccer team for three years and was a figure out a way to stay because he is really good at what volunteer assistant his fourth year. He now plays on the he does,” said Tyler Botte, 22, Hofstra University alumni. New York Greek American’s soccer team and coach’s youth Botte is Foster’s former roommate and former teammate of teams on Long Island. “He has a lot of experience and Native of South Yorkshire, England, Richard country, Nuttall said, “Of course you miss your own peo- three years. knowledge about the game that he shares with his team- Nuttall is currently in his 26th season as ple”. If Foster does find a way to stay in the United States mates,” said Botte. the Hofstra University Men’s Soccer Head When asked what he misses the least, Nuttall said with F-1 OPT authorization, he can continue his stay for a Foster knows that the odds of obtaining a visa are Coach. During his tenure, the Pride has with a chuckle, “the weather.” had anA impressive 226-203-54 record, which has given the Just before he arrived at Hofstra, the Pride posted five longer period of time if he receives an H1B visa. The H1B slim, but not impossible. He has many friends from the visa allows employers to hire international professionals soccer team who have gone through similar experiences. university a reputation as one of the most competitive pro- losing seasons in nine years. Since then, Nuttall’s teams and students to work in the U.S. for up to a total of six Florian Popp, a former teammate of Foster and a recent grams in the Northeast. have finished .500 or better in 17 of his 25 seasons. years. Hofstra University graduate, has an OPT visa that will last Before Nuttall came to the United States, he played In 2006, Hofstra became one of only three schools in him two and a half years instead of the professionally in England for Leeds United and Stoke City the nation with three straight conference titles. Only West- usual one year since he graduated with of the English Football League. He also earned his degree ern Illinois and New Mexico have previously accomplished in Physical Education while he attended Carnegie School in this milestone. Shaun Foster playing for an engineering degree. Popp is working Hofstra University for Greenman-Pederson, Inc., an engi- West Yorkshire. “As the Hofstra Soccer Coach, your goal is to win as neering and construction company on many games as possible,” Nuttall said with a smile. Long Island. “Win as many games as possible.” Not only has the team as a whole found success, but Popp came to America to play several of Nuttall’s players have also gone on to play pro- soccer and to learn English. “I didn’t fessionally. really plan to study over here since my After spending summers in America, Nuttall decided Nuttall also stressed the importance of education. English was almost non-existent,” said that he preferred the American lifestyle and moved to Long For the 2012-13 seasons, the Hofstra soccer program was Popp. “Now, I want to stay in America Island in 1988, where he still lives today with his wife and awarded a College Team Academic award from the NSCBA because it is, how most people say, the three kids. for having a collective 3.17 grade-point-average. land of opportunity. I don’t want to live “[There’s] much more [to] do socially”, Nuttall said, Coach Nuttall’s hard work and attention to detail has the same normal life like everyone else complimenting the wide range of fun activities in America. forever changed Hofstra’s soccer program and the lives of does in Germany. I want to do something When asked what he misses most about his home his players. different.” Popp is a model for students like Foster. He had a goal of staying in the U.S., and earned a degree that would help him stay as long as possible. “Engi- neers are needed in every country,” said Popp. “It would have been easier for me The Hofstra Student to go back to Germany to get a job, since I am fluent in two languages, but I want to stay here.” Popp knows other options, like go- ing back to Germany would be easier, but Leadership Awards Usually an unemployed immigrant receives the visa he says he loves New York and believes it has everything he for a three-year period and then the visa may be extended needs. go live on one time for an additional three years. Employers can spon- Foster is optimistic and determined to follow in his sor international workers for an employment-based green friend’s footsteps and stay in the United States. “I have to card before the H1B visa runs out. Each year, about three admit that not being sponsored would be my worst night- million workers revive temporary visas. mare, but there are other ways to stay in America such as Foster worries that if he leaves, he may not have the going to grad school and chance to come back. “If I returned to England I would extending my student March 2, 2015! probably have to move to a big city and work for someone visa for another two in a communication department of a big company. There years,” said Foster. and are due April 3. would be very little chance I’d end up coming back here due to the difficulties of securing a visa,” said Foster. The waiting time for applicants who become eligible Visit hofstra.edu/hsla to submit your nomination! 20 pulsemag 21 Jon James Fraser [FRESHMAN] Hofstra SAM SCOLARICI COUNTRY: ENGLAND SPORT & POSITION: SOCCER FULLBACK Athletes Fraser Hofstra athletes from all over Q) If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why? the world share some of their favorite A) A gorilla. They get to climb trees and eat bananas. quotes, snacks from home and more. From Australia to Canada, soccer to volleyball, they have contributed more Q) If you had to be remembered by one word, quote, or phrase, what to America than just their athletic abil- would it be? & ities. Read more to find out what their Treat people how you want to be treated. A) favorite thing about America is and see how cute they were as little tykes! Q) What is your favorite thing about America? Q A A) The people. They are generous and kind. Danny Elliot t [FRESHMAN] COUNTRY: ENGLAND SPORT & POSITION: SOCCER FORWARD

Q) If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why? [FRESHMAN] A) A puffin as I could fly, walk and swim. Pablo Casado COUNTRY: SPAIN SPORT & POSITION: SOCCER FORWARD Q) What is your favorite snack from home (sweet or salty)? A) Sweet popcorn. CasadoQ) If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why? A) A bear, because they eat during half of the year and the other half Q) If you had to be remembered by one word, quote, or phrase, what they spend sleeping. would it be? A) The black David Beckham. Q) If you had to be remembered by one word, quote, or phrase, what would it be? Q) What is your favorite thing about America? A) Work hard every day as if it was your last. A) Big portions of food!

Emily Hulbert [FRESHMAN] COUNTRY: AUSTRALIA SPORT & POSITION: SOCCER MIDFIELDER Leigh Maxwell-Smith Maxwell-[JUNIOR] COUNTRY: CANADA SPORT & POSITION: FIELD HOCKEY (DEFENSE) Q) If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why? Smith A) A monkey so I could get up to no good and not get in trouble. Q) If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why? A) A panda, because they live a simple life of sleeping and eating Q) What is your favorite snack from home (sweet or salty)? bamboo. A) Cadbury’s Chocolate and Cheese and Vegemite Scrolls. Q) What is your favorite snack from home (sweet or salty)? Q) If you had to be remembered by one word, quote, or phrase, A) Crunchie Bars. Sponge toffee that’s covered in milk chocolate. what would it be? A) “Such is life.” Q) What is your favorite thing about America? A) My teammates. Q) What is your favorite thing about America? A) Panera Bread and extra-large everything!

22 pulsemag 23 ATHLETE Q&A

Rhian Cleverly [JUNIOR] COUNTRY: WALESCleverlySPORT & POSITION: SOCCER (DEFENSE)

Q) If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why? A) A bird so I could fly home every so often to see my family.

Q) What is your favorite snack from home (sweet or salty)? A) Walkers Prawn Cocktail Crisps (they’re not called chips!)

Q) If you had to be remembered by one word, quote, or phrase, what would it be? A) “Your regrets aren’t what you did, but what you didn’t do…so take every opportunity.”

Q) What is your favorite thing about America? A) Either New York City or ABP’s Oatmeal!

Flushing, Queens has become a center for Eastern Asian communities in the New York City area, with an especially large Korean population. According to the U.S. Census, more than 64,000 Koreans live in Queens and more than 70 percent of Koreans living in New York settle in this borough. Today, the Korean population in Flushing is one of the largest outside of Korea itself. Kelsie Wills [SENIOR] COUNTRY: NEW ZEALAND WillsSPORT & POSITION: VOLLEYBALL (OUTSIDE HITTER)

Q) If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why? A) A gorilla because they are such bosses.

Q) What is your favorite snack from home (sweet or salty)? TOWN A) Feijoa candy and marmite on toast.

Q) If you had to be remembered by one word, quote, or phrase, what would it be? A) “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” an Asian enclave.

Q) What is your favorite thing about America? A) My girlfriends, plus all the great people I have met! Photos by: EMI FELDMAN

24 pulsemag 25 Koreans are heavily concentrated in labor-intensive small business. The most common Korean owned businesses are grocery and liquor stores. More Streets are lined with Korean and Chinese language signs. Koreans KOREATOWNthan 20,000 grocery and liquor stores are owned by Koreans in the U.S. refer to this business district as Haninsanga.

26 pulsemag 27 KEEPING THE CULTURE

ican Society. “It helps people to understand us,” he explained. “The average person thinks the Irish men like to drink and fight. It might have been true the Culture. to a degree but it’s not a true picture.” KEEPING “I would join an Irish Center if there was one close by,” said Anne Mulvey. “The Tara Circle fought for ten years to be [in our town], but the CultureCarlie Nasseh from community fought back. They were afraid it center the Ardmore Academy would draw a “drinking” element making our won the Jim and Mary roads dangerous.” McLoughlin perpetual The average immigrant, like Patrick Kearney, cup. Betty McLoughlin is very loyal to America. “I have always believed as chairperson of the feis handed the trophy that if I was going to live in the U.S. I would fully in memory of her assimilate into the culture,” said Mulvey. “I saw husband and daughter it as an opportunity to open my mind and expand to the winner. my thinking.” “There’s very few Irish men I know that would put Ireland ahead,” added Kearney. “As much as they love the place, and their roots are from there, America still comes first.” Member volunteers in the kitchen. From left: Mike Byrne, President Pat- Just a few minutes from the Mineola train rick Kearney, and Patrick Kerins station, the Irish American Society is in a diverse neighborhood. Surrounded by large Portuguese, German, and Italian populations, the IAS has

“It’s a matter of mixing cultures”

the young people involved and give them, say, one night a learned to interact with other ethnic communities NADIA LINDSTROM month, and get the children involved,” suggested Kearney. as well as the Irish American Long Islanders. “There’s nothing going on here for children, other than “It’s a matter of mixing cultures,” said Kear- teaching them how to dance.” ney, “You have to mix cultures. This way you un- Established in 1932, the Irish American Society was “The elderly people want to keep what they’re familiar derstand their culture and they understand ours.” built as a place to let the Irish celebrate and preserve their with. But as the elderly die off, there’s nobody coming up In the past, there were lot of people who came culture through music and dancing. to replace them,” Kearney continues. “There’s a big gap in to the Irish American Society with their children, “In the old days, there would be a dance here Friday, there. And the younger people, they don’t dance the same and now, years later, their children are going there Join the Multicultural and International Student Programs Office and Saturday and Sunday night,” said Patrick Kearney, Presi- way we did so they’re uninterested in coming to dances. It’s with their children. It takes about $156,000 a year to celebrate our Spring Semester Heritage Months! dent of the Irish American Society of Nassau, Suffolk and kind of hard to find something that fits everybody.” keep the doors open and without proper funding and interest from the Irish American community, Each month highlights a calendar full of events focused on cultural Queens. “The place would be packed. I remember coming “I think [young people] should be aware of their heri- identity and diversity education. Th e highlight for each month is our here and not being able to get a table. There would be tage, acknowledge and respect it,” said Anne Mulvey, who the future of the IAS is uncertain. Heritage Month Reception. about 500 people that would come here to hear a band from moved to New York from Ireland in 1986. “Knowing where “If you are second generation you most likely Ireland.” you come from goes a long way to knowing who you are.” will get [the Irish culture] by osmosis from your Black History Month Women’s “Herstory” Month Asian/Pacific Islander parent,” said Mulvey. “You hear the accent, learn In 2014, the IAS isn’t thriving like it used to. While The Irish American Society offers step dancing classes Heritage Month there are almost 900 current members, only 50 or and competitions, music lessons with traditional Irish in- the songs, eat the holiday Christmas cake, or see it 60 actively continue to participate in meetings, struments, as well as less tradition events such as yoga and anyway.” February 11, 2015 March 4, 2015 April 22, 2015 elections, or events each month and they are knitting. “Its the third generation that I think about,” 11:15 a.m.-12:40 p.m. 11:15 a.m.-12:40 p.m. 11:15 a.m.-12:40 p.m. struggling to bring in new members. Anyone who has Irish heritage can become a member she continues. “How do they keep cultural tradi- In the early days of the IAS, there of the IAS and spouses of Irish people can become associate tions alive? Some of it passes down, but eventual- Multipurpose Rm. Multipurpose Rm. West Plaza Rooms were more people from Ireland than members. You need not be a member, however, to partake ly, without some local influence, it likely diminish- West there are today. The current goal is to in the events and classes held at the society headquarters. A es.” make membership more appealing fee is paid at the door and that entitles you to the privileges “That’s the message I’m trying to get across,” The receptions will feature a keynote speaker and student performances. to the Irish American second and that the members have for the night. said Kearney. “Your mother brought you here for Refreshments will also be served. dancing. Where is your daughter going to bring her third generations. Keeping the Irish culture alive in New York is import- For more information and upcoming events, please visithofstra.edu/MISPO “My personal goal is to get ant to Kearney and the other members of the Irish Amer- kids for dancing in 30 years?” ADD & FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS: @hofstraMISPO

28 pulsemag 29 The Famous Queens Unisphere Photo: Emi Feldman

QUEENS: A WORLD OF SUBWAY POPULATION DEMOGRAPHICS #7 LINE KNOWN AS THE IMMIGRANTS “INTERNATIONAL EXPRESS”, BRIELLE BASSO CONNECTS TIMES SQUARE ueens, New York, TO FLUSHING Qis one of the NATIVE BORN FOREIGN BORN most diverse areas on the planet. It is home to over a million foreign-born res- idents. One in every three immigrants from New 47.7% 53.3% York City lives in Queens. Although Brooklyn is the most populated of the five boroughs, Queens is the most diverse with residents from countries all over the 13DIFFERENT LANGUAGES 8 SPOKEN world. The population in Queens represents over 100 different nations. Within the next 10 years, Queens is on track to become the most heavily populated borough in the city.

1.1 MILLION TOP TEN TOP TEN FOREIGN BORN IMMIGRANT GROUPS IN QUEENS 1. Chinese LANGUAGES SPOKEN IN QUEENS 2. Guyanese 3. Ecuadorian 1. English 4. Mexican 2. Spanish 5. Dominican 3. Chinese 6. Colombian 4. Korean 7. Korean 5. Italian 8. Bangladeshi 6. Greek MILLION 9. Indian 2.3 10. Jamaican 7. Russian PEOPLE LIVE IN QUEENS 8. Tagalog (Filipino) 56.4% 9. French SPEAK A LANGUAGE OTHER 10. French (Creole) Sources: THAN ENGLISH AT HOME United States Census Bureau The Newest New Yorkers About Travel

30 pulsemag 31 KRISTIN MARZULLO long island by the numbers Camp Immigrant share of Long Island population: 16% of immigrant families Immigrant share of working-age population: 20% 13% earn more than $200,000 a year America JENNA GRASSO Immigrant share of Long Island economic output: 17% “Everything was so different.” of immigrant families living on Long Island earn 48% between $80,00 and $199,999.

But... they earn about Immigrants make up 25% less than their U.S. born counterparts. 11/20/2013

20% of all jobholders living on Long Island.

mmigrating to America is seen by many as an anyone and I felt lonely.” achievement that all people should want in their However, within a week, Patel was adjusting to life at Ifuture. To live the “American Dream,” and live in a camp and the American work conditions. The environment society where all people can work and live life to the fullest was completely different from England’s and there were is seen as desirable. adjustments that Patel had to make with his work ethic and Camp America is a program designed to take young values. teens and adults from Europe and bring them to America “It was more relaxing and chilled out working here at to work and then travel cross-country once the summer is camp in the U.S., whereas in England you’re made to work over. Teenagers are placed all over America and are given for your money.” Patel explained,” I am glad I did the pro- an option to travel cross-country, until September or Octo- gram because I had the best summer at Camp Lincoln.” ber. “I feel like I brought real characteristics and brought Twenty-year-old Arpit Patel, who lives in Portsmouth, the buzz and excitement whereas, people in America are England frequents Camp America and has experienced working and traveling through the United States during the summer months. He visited the United States, from June “I had the best summer.” 2014 to August 2014, and learned about different cultures, traditions and ways of life. Patel, was stationed to work in Minnesota/ Nisswa at just always serious,” Patel said about the working envi- Camp Lincoln/ Camp Lake Hubert. ronment. Patel expressed how much he loved traveling to His main place of work was Camp Lincoln- an all- places after camp including Chicago and Newark. boys camp. Patel traveled by bus to family relatives and to friends’ Patel remembers that camp in the United States was houses. He also rented an apartment and got to see the very different from what he experienced in England. “The lights of Chicago city. biggest difference was the day I arrived at camp. Every- “Chicago was the most amazing and beautiful city thing was so different. I was out of my comfort zone and to go to at night and during the day.” While traveling to on to new things. It was awkward because I didn’t know different cities Patel was able to see difference between

32 pulsemag 33

1 THE ASIAN INFLUENCE CAMP AMERICA

success as a designer, but on Asian designers in general. American and European cultures. most of the employees are coming from around the same It opened up so many doors for young Asian designers; Many camps like Camp America have participants areas, it brings for a lot of the same ideas, ideas that many putting the spotlight on an entirely new culture,” said that come and work in the United States and sometimes of the campers have already seen and are bored of. It Hofstra University student and fashion expert Vanessa return multiple times. Waterfront Director of Camp Blue helps a lot to have people from different backgrounds and Powell. “One of the most prestigious goals a designer Bay- a Girl Scout Camp in East Hampton, Long Island- Ju- different cultures to be able to spice up different games for can reach is to have an influential public figure wear lie Littell has worked consistently with the participants of the girls and keep them interested and enjoying their camp your designs. Any designer a first lady wears goes down Camp America for three years. experience from summer to summer,” said Littell. in history with the woman.” After Michelle Obama wore “They bring a different perspective to the camps The big difference in bringing people of different Jason Wu’s gown, the Council of Fashion Designers of and they make the experiences that the children have a cultures to work and participate in camps is that it helps the America gave its three top awards to Asian fashion de- lot different than an American counselor could do,” said children to learn about different perspectives. It also allows signers; Jason Wu, Richard Chai, and Alexander Wang. Littell. Working with different counselors from year to year the counselors to learn a different culture and experience a The CFDA, also known as the Vogue Fashion Fund, and from different places including England, Scotland, and different part of life that they have never had. In reality, in represents the most progressive and young talent, so Australia, Littell has seen the different perspectives that order to learn about different cultures, one must completely after awarding these designers, it is no wonder that each counselor brings and the uniqueness of the individu- indulge themselves into the culture in order to learn and ex- they have risen to such popularity. als themselves. perience the fullness of a culture and the different realities These Asian-American fashion business gurus are devoted to making high fashion looks available to the Vanessa Powell Keeping the activities and the campers interested each of many people. lower-income demographic, and not exclusively public and every day can sometimes be a difficult task. “When Vanessa is a public relations major at Hofstra Univer- figures. Linda and Esther Chang, owners of the iconic sity. Her dream in life is to be a global fashion indus- retail store, Forever 21, took fashions from their Korean try influencer through editorial creative direction. parents’ small boutique to create a highly marketable

brand and the country’s 122nd biggest private compa- Her passion in life has always been fashion and she ny. The trend seems to be this: young Asian-Americans works towards it everyday. Her love of fashion shines refrain from joining large corporations and instead through in all that she has accomplished. work to enhance their families’ high-fashion indepen- dent clothing stores and make them accessible to the žž New York Women in Communications everyday consumer. ashion Hearst Scholar 2014 F Independent style and beauty gurus are continu- and the žž REDBOOK Magazine Fashion Intern ing to shape the face of everyday American fashion žž Shape Magazine Fashion Assistant through their online blogs and social media outlets. žž People StyleWatch Magazine Fashion Assis- Donna Kim of DonnaDaily.com has become an influ- tant sian ential voice in the fashion world through her highly A žž College Fashionista Style Guru Influence accessible style. “I wanted to create a platform that was žž Ralph Lauren Public Relations Intern a little more educational a little more intelligent, a little žž Wardrobe Assistant Stylist for FYI’s BORN bit more everyday. For women of the everyday,” said To Style (TV Show) Kim, “Because guess what, I’m an everyday girl.” Street RACHEL CARRUTHERS žž ASOS Brand Ambassador fashion, or what consumers are actually wearing is žž Cameo Public Relations Intern easily tracked through Instagram and style blogs such as DonnaDaily. Donna Kim MAGGIE STAMETS Twiter/IG: @vanessaLpowell Women and men are using these sites to track Creator of DonnaDaily.com Blog: www.TheStyleness.wordpress.com changes in high fashion and watch as these styles become adapted to street-fashion. In the past year an After completing her undergrad at New York Uni- rom Gwen Stefani, to Alexander increasing amount of trends inspired by Asian street versity, receiving her Bachelors in Media, she went Wang, to Michelle Obama, the Asian fashion have infiltrated U.S. fashionista closets. From to Columbia for a Masters in Broadcast Journalism. influence on American fashion is as color, bold prints, to sleek colored dresses and tights, She has been featured in The Village Voice, Racked obvious as the bright colors and bold wardrobes are shifting towards Asian styles. “Fashion National, xoVain, StyleCaster, BeautyHigh, Verily prints that trademark the style itself. in New York because we are a melting pot of all different is changing,” Kim said, “Being Asian-American it really is Magazine, Shecky’s, FabFitFun, and Brides.com. Cyclical trends in fashion often re- cultures and backgrounds,” said Vanessa Powell. “You amazing to see designers such as Alexander Wang and all volve around nostalgia, economy and don’t necessarily see that in other fashion markets like Paris of those Asian designers.” As an on-air lifestyle expert, she has appeared on geography. Whatever the trend may be, it will trickle or Milan. They are much more specific to their city while As Asian fashion influence grows, the wave of Asian NBC’s The Today Show, QVC, New York Live, ABC’s down through the decades, economic classes and from New York fashion week hosts designers that come from all F immigrants continues to build. Parsons the New School Live Well, and Huffington Post Live. In 2011, she nation to nation. America, it seems, is currently reaping over the world.” for Design notes that around 70 percent of its international was the lead host and co-producer of Kmart Fash- trends that stem from the streets of Tokyo. Fashion fusion is, by no means, a new phenomenon, students come from Asia and, even more specifically, 23 ion’s first-ever digital series called, “What’s Hot” Styles themselves do not travel alone; designers are what consumers are wearing on the streets of New York to percent of the 1,200 students enrolled are either Asian or and “Conversations on Style” where she provided flocking to America and leaving Asian- inspired fashion the streets of Tokyo is continually changing by borrowing Asian-American. This is the first-time that a prominent head-to-toe makeovers for real women, interviewed trends in their wake. First lady Michelle Obama had a and swapping ideas through brands, designers, people and increase like this has ever happened. New York City contin- fashion designers and celebrities, and moderated a part in creating a high-fashion niche for Asian designers styles. As Donna Kim said, it is less of a fusion of styles, “it ues to attract artists from around the world. “The Ameri- panel of top industry influencers. when she wore Jason Wu’s red gown to the President’s is more of an immersion of people of different races.” It is can fashion industry will always look to other cultures for inauguration. “This had a huge impact on not only Wu’s one thing that links us, as a universal form of expression influence and young talent. I love the fashion business here that is seen in every culture and nation.

34 pulsepulsemagmag 3535 Tastes Dominican Restaurant Managed by: Gustavo Hernandez Located at: 1019 Front Street, Uniondale, NY of Long Island Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Signature Dish: San Cocho (Spanish soup) HANNAH RICHMAN The Gourmet Greek Grill Spot Strangely enough, according toDominican manger Gustavo Hernandez, this authentic Dominican restaurant attracts mostly Jamai- Owned by: Athanasios Dokas can and Haitian customers. The Dominican restaurant is Located at: 333 Oak St Uniondale, NY known for its large portions and low prices. Hernandez Hours: Monday – Friday 10:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. took over the store five years ago, but it’s been success- Signature Dish: Lam Gyro Platter fully running for 12 years.

On August 30th 2013, Athanasios Dokas and his Dokas said, “No matterGreek who you are, when you come son Anthony opened up The Gourmet Greek Grill into our store you are like a guest in our home.” Spot, a restaurant serving only authentic cuisine from their home country. Serving everyone from college students to families, Anthony Grill Akbar Located at: 2 South St, Garden City, NY Hours: 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Akbar restaurant exists in Garden City, century old methods. Akbar was the first Indian New York City and Edison, New Jersey. Akbar restaurant on Long Island. Akbar offers a variety was originally modeled after the Grand Mogul of services including a lunch buffet and banquet Emperor Akbar. The owners pride themselves hallsAkbar for hosting parties. on preparing authentic Indian cuisine using Spumante Owned by: Antonio Cervasio Located at: 1650 Hempstead Tpke, East Meadow, NY Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Signature Dish: Homemade Fusilli Amatriciana

Owner, Antonio Cervasio, opened SpumanteSpumante main customers are families. While the restaurant restaurant 10 years ago as a “toast” to Italy. He is all Italian Cuisine, all kinds of people come to came to America 30 years ago and opened his first Spumante, for dining and events. There are ban- restaurant at 18 years old. Cervasio is especially quet rooms where people are able to hold events, proud that this business is family owned and the from Sweet 16’s to wedding receptions. Jamaican Bickle Jamaican Located at: 327 Oak St Uniondale, NY Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Sundays – Closed Signature Dish: Jerk chicken Bickle Jamaican Bickle is a small, casual restaurant owned and oper- ated by workers of Jamaican descent. Hofstra University students often utilize the dining services because of the close vicinity. The Jamaican Bickle offers low price specials, including a $5.50 lunch special. The Jamaican Bickle offers a wide variety of Jamaican food that is available for dining in or take out. Homemade Fusilli Amatriciana Cold Antipasti Asparagus Crustini

36 pulsemag 37 BelmontGIVES BACK MEGHAN FITZGERALD to the “backbone” of racing

ith its first race in 1905, the Belmont gling,” said Ruchames. “So this looks like a great opportu- ational activities and field trips to NYC. House provides a solution that is a step up from Park Race Track, located in Elmont, has nity even though no Americans will come here because of “We holistically take care of the entire person,” said babysitting. become synonymous with multi-mil- the opposite.” Caras. “We take care of the immediate needs, like getting “There is an early invention here that these lionaires, high stakes and the glamour Working long hours, almost every day of the year may them clothes, and then doing events to add to their lives, children would not be getting at home,” said of theW upper echelon. Outsiders looking in, are unaware not seem optimal to the typical American worker, but for and at some point maybe introduce them to Christ, but they Adams. “Some children would otherwise be of the true “backbone” of the racing industry. Behind the immigrant communities, this job is an opportunity to pro- can do with that what they want.” sleeping in a car all morning. Their parents have notoriety of the “Champion Track” there are the hundreds vide for their families, making them dedicated employees The backstretch workers seek help from the Chaplain- no resources so we have to be of employees cleaning, grooming and training the multiple and an integral component of the racing community. cy division in creating a supportive environment for their there for them.” prized horses. “They are the backbone of our industry,” said Joanne families. The Chaplaincy works closely with both B.E.S.T With early childhood While fans get caught up in the numbers and the his- Adams, Executive Director of Belmont Child Care Associa- and the BCCA to assist the workers financially and listen education and enrichment pro- tory of the track, the behind-the-scene backstretch workers tion, Inc. “If they’re not up walking the horses, feeding the to what the backstretch community needs to improve their grams for infants to children are often overlooked and forgotten. “Backstretch,” refers to horses, getting the horses ready for training, washing them, overall quality of life. 5 years old, Anna’s House is a the area adjacent to the racetrack; where horses are stabled and really looking after them, then where are we?” Under Adam’s direction, the BCCA’s state of the art, resource catering to children and where many of their caretakers live in temporary hous- Backstretch workers are vital to the track by caring million-dollar childcare facility, Anna’s House, is working who often cannot speak or read ing. “Backstretch” is the term coined to describe workers for the horses of a multi-million dollar industry. Although to support the health of the younger generations of the English. One goal of Anna’s within the racetrack that go unseen. Backstretch employees, workers are vital to the industry, they are often unable to backstretch employees. With parents working the majority House is to help the children number more than 1,500 and are predominantly immi- make ends meet. Many backstretch workers are commonly of the day and little access to day care programs, Anna’s of backstretch employees catch grants from South American coun- paid less than $400 per week, leaving little for food and tries including Mexico and Gua- childcare. temala. Upon arriving in the U.S. In response, the track has created programs to help they speak minimal English and backstretch workers in need. Employees are offered free work seven days a week, starting as early as 3:30 a.m. Hours include holidays and sometimes over 50 hours a week. “They are the backbone Executive Director of the Backstretch Employee Service of our industry.” Team, Paul Ruchames, pro- vides health and social wel- fare support for Backstrech housing on the 430-acre, racing, training and barn complex. workers. Ruchames explains Family members of backstretch workers are not allowed to that Belmont’s backstretch stay on the property. In response, resources like the Race jobs mainly look desirable Track Chaplaincy of America, New York Division provides to workers coming from much needed assistance to workers’ loved ones. labor-intensive backgrounds Chaplaincy members including Program Director in economically declining Nick Caras, has built relationships with the backstretch countries. employees, and believes there is a need to provide a variety “The economies of those of helpful resources. Caras and his team help employees’ countries are really strug- families find proper clothing, access to a food pantry, recre-

38 pulsemag 39 BELMONT GIVES BACK

up to the English-speaking kids that they will encounter to those outside the inner workings of the New York Racing in the future. By teaching children numbers, letters and Association. They are the quiet gears of Belmont, working good hygiene, the BCCA is a support for these kids whose day in and day out to keep the superstars of the track in parents are busy working on the track. premium condition, furthering the history of New York’s “It’s amazing,” said Adams.“You feel that you can of- fer these kids at least a start that they would otherwise not have. It’s really fulfilling to see them grow and learn.” Anna’s House is continuing education with af- “It’s really fulfilling ter-school programs for elementary and middle schoolers. It has expanded its efforts to include yoga, chess, outdoor to see them programs, family based events, holiday dinners and toy drives. grow and learn.” “I think it’s incumbent upon those involved in Thor- oughbred racing to help and over-see the care of workers, and especially their children,” said Adams. “It’s so import- ant to the racing industry that we all take the time and look great racing tradition. after them to make the effort to help the families as best we “I don’t think anyone in the industry would oppose can.” that they are the backbone here,” said Caras. “They are Still, the backstretch community is commonly unseen dedicated, caring, loving people.”

DID YOU KNOW??? All Hofstra students receive two free tickets to EVERY Hofstra home game. Pick up your free tickets at the Mack Sports Complex Ticket Office!

Be sure to wear your BLUE and GOLD to the game! Go Pride! (516) HOF-TIXX or GoHofstra.com

40