The Torch 103:06 - Feb. 13, Full Issue

THE T RCH

Markiplier’s Iron Lung’ Moves Movie Market

Four Tips to Stay Fashionably Bundled Up This Winter

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St. John’s matchup against the Xavier Musketeers saw the culmination of a 38 year career within the NCAA, across seven different schools and two national championship victories. Rick Pitino notched his 900th win as a college basketball coach against his son Richard Pitino in dram...

No. 17 St. John’s Snatch Victory from the Jaws of Defeat against Xavier St. John’s University Suspends Partnership With U.S. Customs and Border Patrol p. 4 p. 9

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A 127‑minute horror film adapted from a 45‑minute indie video game would normally raise questions about pacing and audience appeal. For YouTuber Mark Fischbach, better known as Markiplier, it became a rare box office breakthrough. Iron Lung premiered on Jan. 30, with initial plans to show...

The St. John’s Turning Point Chapter Wasn’t Rejected Because

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It’s only two months into 2026 and New York City has already received record-breaking snow totals. Strong weather conditions like these make it tough for the average person to find warm, comfortable and fashionable clothing. Despite these challenges, both the internet and Johnnies have come...

Winter Storm Complicates Campus Life and Commutes

St. John’s University experienced campus closures after New York was hit by blizzard.

Early Sunday morning, a major snowstorm which the Weather Channel is calling “Winter Storm Fern,” swept through Queens. Snowfall began around 5 a.m. and accumulated quickly — creating headaches for students and faculty at St. John’s University as parts of Queens dealt with more than 10 inches of snow.

According to NBC New York, “Fern” was the biggest winter storm New York has seen in five years and was accompanied by the coldest city temperatures since 2018. Nationally, the storm has been linked to at least 18 deaths, with five people found dead outdoors in New York City; Mayor Zohran Mamdani said officials were still working to determine the causes of death.

By the time St. John’s students woke up, snow covered campus pathways and nearby roads. Public Safety crews began snow removal that morning using snow blowers, vehicle-mounted plows and shovels.

Public Safety sent an alert Saturday night announcing closures for the University’s Queens and Manhattan campuses on Jan. 25 and Jan. 26. Classes were not canceled, however, as the University shifted to remote learning. The decision mattered for a student body where commuting is the norm. About 71% of St. John’s students are commuters, meaning most rely on roads, trains and buses that can be hit hardest when snow and ice linger.

Jack Bulik | JaN. 27, 2026

Public Safety continued to inform members of the St. John’s community via Social Media posts, SMS alerts and announcements on stjohns.edu encouraging students to limit travel, dress in layers and keep their devices charged.

Even with classes online, some commuter students said they are worried about getting to campus once in-person schedules resume.

Thomas Thater, a junior who commutes from Middle Village, said the storm has already changed how he plans his week.

“As a commuter student, this snowstorm is having a huge effect on how I get to school,” Thater said. “I have to plan to leave early now, I have to make sure my car can handle the snow and make it to campus safely.”

Thater also had concerns about students taking public transportation, predicting increased delays and reduced services for MTA routes.

“I will have to face hazards, poor visibility, limited parking and other issues,” Thater continued. Those concerns were echoed by Joseph Dona, a freshman living in Hollis Hall, who spoke to The Torch while sheltering in Montgoris Cafeteria with friends during the storm. Those concerns were echoed by Joseph Dona, a freshman living in Hollis Hall, who spoke to The Torch while sheltering in Montgoris Cafeteria with friends during the storm.

“I feel bad for the commuters — roads could be icy on Tuesday,” Dona said.

Dona, an early riser, woke up at 6 a.m. shortly after the storm had begun.

Dona added that day-to-day life for resident students has not changed as much, noting that Public Safety shoveled a pathway from Residence Village to Montgoris Cafeteria. Dona expressed gratitude that classes would be held online.

“Yeah, I’m happy some classes are canceled, I just wish there was a hill on campus where we could go sledding,” Dona said jokingly.

Off campus, the storm affected more than student routines. Some local businesses along Union Turnpike closed for the day on Sunday, including P&M Convenience. Meanwhile, grocery stores across the city saw picked-over shelves over the weekend as shoppers stocked up ahead of the storm.

By Monday morning, “Fern” had left St. John’s digging out alongside the rest of the city — from plowed campus paths to closed corner stores — with students bracing for what the next commute could look like once the snow turns to ice.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani Kicks Off a New Era for New York City

The new New York City Mayor commemorates his swearing-in with an inauguration block Nicholas st cyr | JaN. 4, 2026

While most people were watching the ball drop and ringing in the new year, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani officially took office on Jan. 1 as he was sworn in a decommissioned subway station under City Hall. As the city’s first Muslim leader, Mamdani made history by taking his oath and placing his hand on a Quran immediately after midnight.

After the quick ceremony at the start of 2026, the new mayor took the stage at City Hall for a more public inauguration the next morning. Senator Bernie Sanders administered the oath before Mamdani gave his first public speech as mayor.

The ceremony, featuring appearances by political leaders Senator Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Sanders, drew thousands of New Yorkers to City Hall’s steps, with thousands more attending the block party nearby, which streamed the event. Supporters battled harsh weather to come out in droves to hear from their new leader. The democratic socialist mayor vowed to keep the promises made during his historic campaign. “To those who insist that the era of big government is over, hear me when I say this: No longer will City Hall hesitate to use its power to improve New Yorkers’ lives,” Mamdani proclaimed.

The mayor and other speakers emphasized

that this new era of New York leadership would not shy away from taxing the wealthy to fund the betterment of lower-class citizens.

“Beginning today, we will govern expansively and audaciously,” Mamdani said. “I was elected as a democratic socialist, and I will govern as a democratic socialist,” he continued. “I will not abandon my principles for fear of being deemed ‘radical.’”

From Jadakiss quotes to a Jalen Brunson shoutout, Mamdani made a point to show that he was a New York mayor for all of its inhabitants.

St. John’s Honors Martin Luther King Jr. with Legacy Dinner

The University’s Office of Equity and Inclusion hosted a night of speeches, food and awards.

St. John’s University’s Office of Multicultural Affairs opened the doors of the D’Angelo Center ballroom to students, faculty and staff on Jan. 29 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The night highlighted and honored the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with a collection of speakers, awardees and performances.

AFollowing the initial opening, University President, Rev. Brian J. Shanley, took the stage to read some of King Jr.’s letter from Birmingham and some words of his own.

“Having the clarity, courage and conscience to stand up for what is right is one of the most important legacies that Dr. King has left us with,” Shanley said. “We owe a deep debt of gratitude to Martin Luther King.”

After the remarks, a student announced keynote speakers Alexys Feaster and Jeffrion Aubrey. Feaster, a former NBA executive and a creative strategist, and Aubrey, a former G-League player and the executive director of the Next Gen Basketball Players Union, used the platform to comment on the current po-

Nicholas st cyr | Feb. 3, 2026

litical climate and promote a new Hulu show, “Hoops, Hopes & Dreams.”

Both Feaster and Aubrey pulled from their own life and career experiences to provide insight into the professional world and to offer advice to the students in attendance.

The pinnacle of the night came when the award recipients were called to the stage to receive their honors. An array of civil rights leaders were represented with these awards.

Malcolm X, John Lewis, Audre Lorde, John Baker, Septima Clark and Bayard Rustin all had rewards in their names.

Amongst the award recipients were students and faculty: Marus Hardy, Kevin Reed, Noa Ben-Asher, Amber Wilson, Valent Benedict Guevarra, Nikolai Sotelo, Ermira Uldedaj and Syeda Hijab Fatima.

Fatima spoke with the Torch after receiving the Malcom X award.

“Winning the Malcom X award is truly an honor and shows the importance of service, of giving back to the community,” Fatima said.

“I am so grateful to have the opportunity here at St. John’s to make a difference,” she continued.Kevin Reed, a member of the board of trustees, gave an acceptance speech after receiving the John Lewis Bridge Builder award.

“St. John’s is all in and fully committed to the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, which are deeply rooted in our Vincentian and Catholic vision,” Reed said. “We have the advantage of benefitting from students of many faiths, cultures, languages and life experience,” Reed added.

St. John’s commemorated Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by hosting a dinner in his honor and awarding students and staff who strive to make a difference with their efforts.

Future for Tobin Uncertain After Flood Forces Closures

Classes have been relocated.

St. John’s University shifted classes out of the Peter J. Tobin College of Business building this week after a pipe burst caused flooding and forced the building to close indefinitely, according to a Public Safety announcement.

The response was to move classes to remote instruction, and later to alternative classrooms on campus. The flooding created substantial problems and could lead to additional relocations, with public safety urging students to monitor their university email for updates.

The Office of Financial Services has also been temporarily relocated to the Office of the Registrar in Newman Hall, Room 102.

For students and faculty who rely on Tobin for daily classes, the closure has added uncertainty to the semester’s routine. With the building closed until further notice, instructors and departments have had to adjust schedules and locations while the university assesses the damage and coordinates repairs.

For Jessie Bridgelal, a junior year finance major at Tobin, that adjustment has been difficult. Bridgelal told The Torch that the

locations for his classes are announced only a few hours before they are scheduled to begin, which made getting to class more difficult, particularly in the cold weather.

“They’ve been giving regular updates on the situation, but there’s still no timeline for a return to the Tobin Building,” Bridgewall said.

Like many Tobin students, Bridgewall had remote classes on Monday, but noted that his subsequent classes were all held in St. John’s Hall or Marillac Hall.

The flooding surprised many students in Tobin, including Patrick Golis, another junior in the school of business.

Golis said the temporary shift online was more convenient for him as a commuter from the Maspeth section of Queens, even as he acknowledged the larger disruption for those with multiple courses in the building.

“It didn’t have much of an impact on me since it was my only class of the day,” Golis said. “If anything, it was more convenient having class online so I could go straight to work after the Microsoft Teams meeting end-

ed.” He added that traffic on the Long Island Expressway can make commuting frustrating.

The pipe burst came after Campus Facilities and Services posted a cold-weather alert on building doors, warning that freezing temperatures could affect pipes if basic precautions were not followed.

“Due to the sub-freezing temperatures over the next 10 days, it is imperative that all windows remain closed to avoid freezing pipes,” the flyer read.

Campus Facilities and Services also urged students and faculty to refrain from opening windows and to keep heating devices on.Officials did not provide a statement, but are working to address the situation as quickly as possible.

The closure adds to a disrupted stretch for Monday classes in Tobin. Classes were canceled during a snow day on Jan. 26, and the university is scheduled to close again on Feb. 16 for Presidents’ Day. By week six of the semester, Tobin Monday classes will have met in person only twice.

St. John’s University Suspends Partnership With

U.S. Customs and Border Patrol

St. John’s administration suspends the program with CBP.

After many concerns, complaints and fears from the St. John’s community and national tensions surrounding United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the University’s partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) has officially been suspended.

The partnership was announced on May 6 2025. According to the administration, the program was initiated to create opportunities—such as internships and other job opportunities—for St. John’s Homeland Security and Cyber Security majors and minors. However, the program was met with significant controversy, with a petition signed by over 800 students, faculty members and other members of the larger Queens community.

The original controversy stemmed from the idea that this partnership directly violated the university’s Vincentian values.

On a national level, ICE has been creating widespread terror and fear across the country, sparking outrage from all areas of the United

Celina

Mullady | Feb. 3, 2026

States, even leading to mass strikes. Since its origin, the partnership with CBP has been met with pushback from the St. John’s community. The recent actions by ICE officials and the current administration have furthered the originally stated fear.

According to an email sent out by NO CPB at SJU! Dean Jelani Jefferson Exum announced that the University officially suspended the partnership in an email to the St. John’s University Law School professors.

“I write to share that the University has suspended its partnership with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The University reached this decision in recent weeks after concluding that the partnership is currently incompatible with the mission of St. John’s,” said Dean Jelani Jefferson Exum.

This email from NO CBP at SJU! also expressed gratitude for the suspension and the actions the St. John’s community took. “For nearly 9 months, you sustained an array of actions that prompted the ‘suspension’ of a

university partnership that was not Catholic and Vincentian in its values and should NEVER have been created—not during any recent U.S. administration.”

While many rejoice at the program’s suspension, it brings bigger questions of confusion.

The email by NO CPB at SJU! continues to ask what suspension actually means, and “How will administrators repair the confidence and trust that they so badly damaged?”

In response to inquiries from The Torch, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Simon G. Moller Ph.D said, “After constructive, mission-focused conversations with US Customs and Border Protection, the decision was made to suspend, in advance of the one-year renewal, the academic partnership by mutual agreement.”

St. John’s Hosts Opening of “Debugging the Earth” Art Exhibition

The Yeh Art Gallery was home to a group art exhibition showcasing Queens

St. John’s University opened the doors of the Yeh Art Gallery for the opening ceremony of the “Debugging the Earth” art exhibition on Feb. 5 from 4:30 to 7:30.

Attendees were treated to refreshments while they examined the assortment of artwork throughout the gallery.

The gallery was a group exhibition featuring artists André Magaña, Carly Mandel, Catherine Telford Keogh, Jan Mun, Kahlil Robert Irving, Michael Assiff and Serena Chang.

“Debugging the Earth,” organized by Queensbased painter and sculptor Assiff, aimed to explore the natural and man-made environment by making use of methods similar to reverse engineering. This was done by utilizing everyday objects and positioning them in different stages of production.

Assiff spoke with the Torch about his vision for the exhibit and what “Debugging the Earth” means to him.

“One of the ramifications of our food system and the chemicals that we use is that the insect population is coming down,” Assiff said. “[The exhibit] also kind of thinks about how people try to solve bigger problems but they’re not always using the right tools,” he added.

He continued to speak about his overall view that the exhibition communicates.

“Not thinking about the Earth from an engineer’s point of view, but trying to think about the Earth more holistically as an enchanted place that you actually want to live.” The Queens native concluded.

Assiff displayed many of his own pieces in the exhibit as well. One being “Untitled (Aster 5), 2025” which he spoke about in relation to Missouri native Khalil Robert Irving’s “Memorial Flowers.”

“[Irving] lives in St. Louis, and these are architectural pieces from a historical black neighborhood that’s been gentrifying even in the course of his lifetime,” Assiff said. “Juxtaposing that with street signs and the flowers in there, I don’t know there’s something talking to each other,” he finished.

Contributing artist Andre Magaña was also present at the opening ceremony. He spoke with the Torch about his pieces “Secondary Painting E-6997 No.1-4, 2026” and “Wrapped Surprise Egg Blow Mold in Mid-Pose Efficiency-Safe-Deposit-Box Prototypes, 2025.”

“I have been working with photography elsewhere in my practice, so interfacing with this I am thinking about images in a different way then I

usually do and painting more from a theoretical standpoint,” Magaña said about the “Secondary Painting” collection. “These kind of arose naturally out of that researching of photography or painting.” He noted.

Apart from these pieces the exhibition is home to a diverse assortment of artistic pieces that make use of a variety of distinctive materials.

“Debugging the Earth” will be displayed in the Yeh Art Gallery on the Queens campus until Mar. 21.

Four Tips to Stay Fashionably Bundled Up This Winter

Even when it’s brick, Johnnies know how to throw on a fit.

Syriana Pazmino | Feb. 2, 2026

Less than two months into 2026, New York City has already received record-breaking snow totals.

Strong weather conditions like these make it tough for the average person to find warm, comfortable and fashionable clothing. Despite these challenges, both the internet and Johnnies have come up with several ways to keep you warm and trendy this winter.

Layers, Layers, Layers

The most common thing you’ll probably hear when dressing for the winter is how important it is to wear layers. Not only are you guaranteed to stay warm, but in situations where you don’t know how strong the heat is indoors, you can always remove layers once inside.

Sophomore Mekhi Walker mentioned that he always has at least 3 layers on whenever he goes out. “Usually an undershirt, a hoodie/sweater and a coat over everything. Or a button up with a sweater over it. Either keep you comfortable and warm wherever you go.”

In a similar vein, sophomore Olivia Nedrick suggested that “Wearing fleece tights under skirts or even a pair of regular leggings under jeans or sweatpants can keep your legs warm.”

These tips allow you to continue wearing some of your spring and summer pieces even in the dead of winter.

The Importance of Materials

While there are several scientific factors that are used to help determine which is the best material to wear during the winter — like thermal insulation levels and durability — it is generally easier to take note of which materials to avoid.

Suede and leather may look very nice, but can suffer permanent or expensive dam-

age in the rain or snow; therefore, it’s a better idea to keep those types of fabrics indoors.

Instead, you should focus on water resistant materials like nylon for your outer layer, and insulating materials like wool for your inner layers to ensure that you will still be able to express yourself the way you want and that none of your clothing gets damaged.

“Knitted wear and fur are my go-tos when I know I need to stay warm…. Besides materials, knowing how to methodically layer is the key to staying warm without looking bulky,” said junior Raisa Hasan.

Why the Color of Your Clothing Matters

You may have been told to not wear dark colors in the summer because they absorb more UV rays; however, this makes them perfect for the winter.

When asked about the colors he prefers to wear during the winter, Walker spoke about darker clothing and how “they especially pop out when there’s snow.” Besides being able to stand out against a white background, dark clothing can also help conceal the stains and dirt you might encounter this snowy season.

Additionally, the color of your clothing gives you another way to express yourself when your other options are limited.

When asked about her favorite colors to wear throughout the season, Nedrick said “...I love neutral tones for the winter. But also a hint of dark red…as well. Red and brown are two combos that go very well togetherSimilarly, Hasan responded by saying “…when I think winter,

navy blue and mahogany or a nice deep magenta come to mind.”

Utilizing Accessories

When asked about what she believes is the key to staying warm this winter, Hasan said “Do not neglect your hands or head. A few minutes with uncovered hands in this type of cold will feel like frostbite. And as someone who honestly doesn’t bundle up enough, I realized in this recent winter storm how much of a difference wrapping a scarf makes; not just around the neck— over the head.”

It’s important to take advantage of winter accessories like gloves, earmuffs, leg warmers, scarves and hats.

While accessories like gloves and mittens can help protect you from frigid temperatures, they can also elevate any winter outfit.

And for those of you who aren’t the biggest fans of hats, there are several tutorials online that show how to wrap a scarf and still cover your head just as Hasan mentioned.

While winter can be a difficult season to get through, looking fashionable while staying warm can make the winter chills more bearable.

A Productive a.m.: A Guide to Becoming A Morning Person

Discover how optimizing your early hours can transform your daily routine.

AlexAndrA Prettitore | Feb 13, 2026

When you began college, you were likely advised to avoid 8 a.m. classes at all costs and to sleep in as much as possible. It is true that cramming for exams, completing last-minute assignments and weekend partying will keep you up late, seemingly eliminating any chance for an early start to your day.

Although adopting the night owl sleep schedule — or having no sleep schedule at all — is certainly tempting under these circumstances, research suggests that consistently waking up early produces an array of benefits, including a boost in productivity and mental well-being. An article by Harvard Health Publishing even declares that moving your wake-up time up by just one hour lowers the risk of depression.

But how can this be feasible for a college student’s lifestyle? And besides the notion of improved mental health, what can realistically be accomplished in the mornings to make an earlier start to the day feel worth it?

Minor Adjustments Go a Long Way

Becoming a so-called morning person does not mean you need to wake up at 5 a.m. to see tangible results. As the aforementioned Harvard study suggests, starting by getting up just one hour before the time you usually do can make a huge difference. In addition to mental health benefits, this small change to your routine gives you more time to get ready, allowing you to slow down and minimize stress in the morning.

To avoid pressing “snooze” when first making this switch, put your alarm out of arm’s reach so you are forced to leave your bed in order to shut it off. This movement will jolt you awake and help prevent you from falling back asleep.

Do Something You Enjoy as a Part of Your Routine

Giving yourself something to look forward to as you wake up can also help make early mornings more bearable. Instead of immediately beginning your morning routine, adding a calming, pleasant component to your a.m. can make it a more positive experience.

For example, you can keep a morning journal and write about the day ahead. You can make your favorite breakfast and take the time to truly savor it. You can take a long shower and start the day feeling refreshed. It does not necessarily matter what it is, but including an enjoyable component to your morning routine will make it easier to stick to it. Plus, having that extra time in the morning gives you the ability to add

this step into it without being rushed.

A Lighter Workload

Productivity in the mornings has the potential to lighten your workload significantly. Instead of saving all your assignments for the afternoon or evening, try to do one as a part of your morning routine. It can be something simple, like a short discussion post or a portion of a reading. Even if it is small, it crosses a task off your to-do list later in the day.

If you feel like you cannot perform at your academic peak in the mornings, you could do a chore instead. Doing a load of laundry or tidying up your room are also great yet gentle ways to have a productive start to your day.

Or if you are trying to stay active, you can also use this time to go to the gym or workout at home instead of exercising later in the day when you have less energy.

The morning can feel like the most challenging time of the day, especially if you are not an early bird by nature or have a jam packed schedule. However, slightly altering your routine can make them more valuable and improve the rest of your day. You might even grow to enjoy the sound of your alarm clock.

Credits in Common: Behind the University Core

Is the University Core at St. John’s University a benefit or a burden?

AlexAndrA Prettitore | Feb 2, 2026

The majority of universities in the United States have a core cur- riculum, classes that students must take in addition to their major requirements. St. John’s University has an especially lengthy list of required classes, as there is a 39-credit University Core that all stu- dents are mandated to complete. Each college has its own additional requirements, meaning that around half of a student’s degree is not directly tied to their major.

The University pays special homage to its Catholic, liberal arts roots; the core curriculum contains three philosophy classes and two theology classes in addition to standard math, science and writing courses.

The University Core encourages students to explore a wide array of subjects, many of which do not relate to or supplement their major coursework, which raises the question: Are these classes nec- essary or even helpful to the students who take them? Or do they waste their time and prevent them from studying more of what tru- ly interests them, forcing students to stray from their major in order to maintain high grades?

Sophomore English major Artina Behdzet believes that the core “urges students to take classes that are not beneficial to their major.”

This negative experience has a significant impact on students’ academic journeys. In fact, the University Core requires three more credits than Behdzet’s English major, meaning that she will spend more time in classes that do not interest her rather than ones in her ownShemajor. adds that some classes even hinder her academically, explain- ing that her “grade might suffer due to the fact that I have to take something I struggle with, leading to my GPA failing.” If a student

actively avoided a subject by choosing a specific major, is it unfair for them to be required to take it regardless?

Sophomore cybersecurity major Nicholas Cirigliano agrees with Behdzet to an extent; he “would rather use those credits to invest time in other classes, like electives towards [his] major.”

Cirigliano sees the value in some of the University Core require- ments though and believes that exiting your comfort zone can pro- vide students with academic growth. He specifically praises public speaking as a part of the core, underscoring its practical purpose.

“If you don’t have the skills to socialize with unfamiliar people or in front of a larger group, you may face issues down the line when facing interviews for jobs,” Cirigliano explains.

Javier Fajardo, a sophomore homeland security major, also places value on learning real-world skills in University Core classes. For this reason, he believes there should be changes to what is focused on in the curriculum.

“The study of classes such as ethics and philosophy, while insight- ful, could be substituted with courses relevant in today’s world, such as a computer science requirement,” Fajardo suggests. His opinion reflects the feelings that many students have about the philoso- phy-heavy coursework the University deems necessary: It is nice in theory, but largely impractical in comparison to other subjects.

The responses from these students make one thing clear – the University Core contains an overwhelming amount of classes that are frequently not applicable and even painful for those who take them.

The Perfect Gifts and Actions to Meet Your Partner’s Love Language

Everything is romantic.

James Williams | Feb. 13, 2026

Every romantic relationship is defined by its uniqueness; each partner in a relationship may like something different.

Your partner may enjoy cuddling and just being close in proximity to you over an extravagant present. Spending quality time with your partner may make them happier than gestures like running an errand they forgot, or you could just say the right thing that makes their day.

This is to say, that everyone has a different love language, or specific actions that they enjoy most from their partner. Categorically, there are five major love languages that your partner may enjoy receiving most, and understanding which one your partner falls under is the first step in crafting the perfect Valentine’s Day.

To make sure that you satisfy your partner’s love language, here are some tips and ideas to help you come up with the perfect present or date.

Physical Touch

Physical touch is the most obvious love language to identify; your partner may enjoy holding hands, kissing or any form of physical inti- macy over other signs of love.

To guarantee that you stay close to your partner, a new throw blan- ket to cuddle on the couch with may be a good option for a gift. But a more thoughtful idea could be to learn a new skill such as the basics of a back massage, or to be mindful of little things like the dreaded “sidewalk rule” while holding your partner’s hand on the street could make all the difference.

Words of Affirmation

“Captivating,” “enchanting” or “stunning” are all adjectives you could use to describe your partner that enjoys hearing words of af- firmation. These verbal acknowledgements of love could make your partner “feel understood and appreciated.”

Broadening your vocabulary to find different words that express your love and admiration for your partner is just one way to make your “wordy” partner feel cherished.

But words of affirmation could also be done in writing, attaching a caring, handwritten note to a bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolates is another thoughtful gesture.

Gift Giving

An occasional gift is a staple of every relationship, but to someone with gift giving as their love language an opportune present could mean the world.

The classic Valentine’s Day gift basket wouldn’t be a bad place to start, but something more personal to your partner is ideal.

If you excel in homemade crafts, such as crocheting or scrapbook- ing, then you already have the perfect skillset to make your gift loving partner a happy Valentine.

Quality Time Together

The best gift is a duo activity for a partner whose love language is quality time together.

For an extrovert: walking trails in Central Park or the Brooklyn Bridge is a fun adventure for couples. And for those who like to stay inside, “Heated Rivalry” and/or “Fallout” are excellent picks for the couple that wants to spend quality time binge watching new shows together.

But if none of those jump out to you or your significant other, qual- ity time is any time spent together. So regardless of the activity, just make sure you are together.

Acts of Service

An act of service is anything that makes your partner’s day a little easier. It could be anything small or big, like picking up your partner’s favorite candy on your way out of the grocery store or driving them to the airport.

But for Valentine’s Day, building your day around making your significant other’s slightly better should be the plan. From breakfast in bed, to cleaning their space and paying for anything and everything, make sure all your partner’s needs are met.

Love Language Breakdown Among Americans

The Inaccessible World St. John’s and other universities lack accessible spaces

Ryan CuRRan | Feb. 6, 2026

When I entered the university in Fall of 2022, a new world had formed in front of my eyes. I was starting to become an adult and explore opportunities that would be available to me and other students with disabilities in New York City.

While I was ecstatic about starting higher education, reality came crashing down. This took the form of my daily routine—struggling to walk up the hill to Sullivan Hall, dodging the icy stairs and arriving at an elevator at the D’Angelo Center only to be met with delays and malfunctions. If you believe this is an unusual occurrence, you would be wrong.

The most significant aspect is that I am not the only student who faces this issue on campus.

The lack of accessibility on campus seems to be no surprise to a handful of students and faculty. Whether it is the hills near gates four and six to the broken automatic door buttons, these aspects could be seen as minimal obstacles.

Assumptions like these have stemmed from the amount of money that the university receives. If they have the necessary financial support and staff to carry these initiatives out, why haven’t they? Unfortunately, there has been little to no progress over the last few years.

When students with disabilities are expected to arrive to their classes and extracurriculars on time, why is it that they are the target of the discussion and not the inaccessibility on campus? It becomes imperative for us to recognize this as not a selective issue, but a universal one. If action is not taken, are we truly a welcoming campus?

I have taken four years to try to understand whether St. John’s has been planning projects to create alternative pathways or renovate spaces on campus. But I realized it was four years too long.

While I was brushing this aside, the univer-

sity gathered $106 million for the St. Vincent Health Science Center in 2024. When I thought that it would take time to develop a strategy to make the campus accessible, they announced that trustee Bill Janetschek donated $32.5 million in total, but $25 million specifically, to help develop the new state of the art basketball facility.

Don’t get me wrong—these new buildings and facilities can be a stepping stone to designing more modern entrances and pathways. But if millions of dollars can be raised for these projects, why can’t money be raised for renovations in St. John’s Hall? Why can’t money be raised for additional elevators? Why can’t money be raised to increase the maintenance of automatic doors, buttons and lights?

In addition to physical accessibility, there is still a lack of access to groups on campus for people with disabilities.

As a student leader, I have only seen two organizations/student groups that specifically address disability rights out of the dozens that exist on campus. One of which, the Accessibility Committee, is specifically for students to learn how to help spread awareness and share their experience on accessibility and disability-friendly environments. It is not an equitable environment when there are few to no support groups or spaces for students and faculty with disabilities.

The university has not made any significant changes to the campus in order to ensure that incoming and current students can access it. This not only decks accessibility for people with disabilities, but also for those without disabilities.

According to the CDC, one out of four adults in the United States has some form of a disability. From physical to mental, this should remind us how common it is to meet someone who has a disability. Even if you do not currently have one, there is a chance that

you may develop one in your lifetime.

Especially at St. John’s, this should not be a negative conversation. As a student with a disability, it alarms me how many of my peers didn’t realize the implications that inaccessible pathways or buildings can have. Most importantly, I was shocked when students didn’t seem to care about the discussions surrounding the stigma that language and actions hold towards people with disabilities.

The impacts of inaccessibility are more tremendous than most people think. We create an environment where disability is viewed as imperfection. When we do not create spaces that are accessible, we end up leaving people with disabilities out of the conversation.

We have seen this year after year, decade after decade. Even in 2026, there are many areas in New York City that people with disabilities cannot access or use. If they cannot travel or even enter a space, what kind of message is being sent to them? That they don’t belong? That they have to find another place?

In September of 2018, a contributing writer of the Torch wrote a similar article to this, calling for St. John’s to create a more accessible campus. It has been eight years, and I fear that not much has changed. I ask that you use this as motivation.

Spread awareness about disability rights. Read literature about the history of disability and its intersectional ties to identity. Talk to your friends. Organize and discuss how St. John’s administration and staff can gather student voices surrounding the lack of accessibility across campus. Share your own experiences about accessing the buildings, facilities and more on campus. These things may seem small, but they remind the administration that we are here for a collective purpose—make St. John’s University accessible.

No, The St. John’s Turning Point Chapter Wasn’t Rejected Because of “Liberal Bias.”

Turning Point’s failed bid for recognition was routine and completely un-news- worthy.

Micah Grayson| Feb. 1, 2026

St. John’s is in the national media again, and unfortunately, it’s over something utterly ridiculous.

This past November, the University’s student government (SGi) conducted its semesterly Power to Organize (P2O) application process for students interested in making their organizations fully recognized and funded.

Just as in any year, some were chosen, some were not. One of the organizations that missed the cut was the Turning Point USA Chapter. This wasn’t the first time they failed to gain recognition, either, as several other students had attempted to apply since the chapter initially lost its status in 2018.

Could there have been some bias involved in this decision and previous ones? Absolutely.

Every member of the SGi Senate was elected to represent the best interests of their college and grade, so naturally certain types of organizations will take precedence over others depending on each senator’s background.

Was this year’s exclusion of the Turning Point USA Chapter a deliberate act of “liberal bias” as the New York Post and the chapters President made it out to be? Absolutely not.

For starters, it failed to meet the core criteria of a newly funded organization.

The Treasurer of the Turning Point Chapter emphasized in the national organizations article that “they highlighted the absence of any campus organizations dedicated to civil discourse and open political dialogue.”

Here’s the problem: the University already has an organization, the Political Student Union, dedicated to political discussion and debate. And, as someone who also went through the process of starting an organization, one of the key factors of consideration SGi laid out was the uniqueness of the club.

That fact alone, which conveniently was never brought up by the Turning Point Treasurer, nor any of the professional “journalists” from national media, gives a pretty succinct explanation as to why the club wasn’t selected this time, or in any of the previous P2O processes.

The Treasurer, in that same article, and journalist Brittany Bernstein, in a November article for the National Review, also tried to back up this claim by highlighting the existence of the Palestine Solidarity Committee and the Spectrum club as political organizations.

This statement is mind-boggling. Not just because of the ridiculous, racist and homophobic insinuation that a club representing a minority group and an organization standing with and highlighting a country currently being genocided are both politically controversial. But also due to the fact that several “reputable” news publications presented this claim as valid.

Is the Latin American Students Organization political? How about the Irish Society? Part of me thinks these outlets would say no to that one.

The final nail in the coffin, which invalidates both the newsworthiness and credibility of the Treasurer’s claim, is that even if they followed the criteria, and even if clubs like Spectrum were overtly political, the left-wing bias claim still falls apart.

As mentioned earlier, I myself also applied for recognition this past

semester.

Just like Turning Point USA, our club, Peace Action St. John’s, was previously recognized. And just like Turning Point USA, we missed the cut.

SGi sent out the same rejection email they received, and when I replied and asked for an explanation, they responded using the same language.

Our club isn’t a right-wing organization; quite the opposite, actually. Just like the ideals of the statewide NGO, the organization is openly anti-military, anti-nuclear proliferation, anti-ICE, etc.

Were we disappointed and felt as though SGi made the wrong decision? Yes.

Did we complain and write a press brief with the state-wide organization? No.

Did left-leaning news outlets cover the rejection, framing it as another instance of “conservative bias” ? No.

Did we use the opportunity to publicly misrepresent the purposes of other student organizations? Of course not.

This is because those on the right, regardless of how they present their opposition as “snowflakes” or “sissies,” love playing the victim.

Charlie Kirk’s death was horrific, and political violence must be rooted out entirely. But that doesn’t mean the man didn’t have repulsive views, nor does it mean Student Governments across the country should give free passes to those looking to receive funding for his organization.

To Fox News, The New York Post and The National Review: Find something better to report on. There are plenty of negative stories surrounding St. John’s University, such as its recent partnership with Customs and Border Protection.

This is certainly not one of them. In a time of such political turmoil,

103RD EDITORIAL BOARD

JAMES WILLIAMS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CELINA MULLADY MANAGING EDITOR

NICHOLAS ST. CYR NEWS EDITOR

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CARLYANN CAREY

OPINION EDITOR

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When the Government Kills: The Rhetoric in Minneapolis

The administration’s language matters when the federal government kills civilians.

Carlyann Carey | Jan 27, 2026

A few important things have happened in Minneapolis recently.

Since the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has entered Minneapolis, Minn., they have managed to have a few viral moments. None of them make the agency look good.

Some of the more notable moments have been ICE agents detaining a five-year-old boy in a blue bunny hat with a Spiderman backpack and seven ICE agents disarming, tackling and shooting a nurse named Alex Pretti outside of a hospital.

You can watch the videos yourself. It would be impossible for anyone to justify what ICE has done. Yet the administration tries.

After the detainment of the preschooler, Vice President JD Vance flew out to Minneapolis for a press briefing. The language Vance used in the briefing was calculated and used with the intention of creating a separation between “us” and “them.”

He begins by describing the boy’s father as an “illegal alien.” Specifically, he said “His dad was an illegal alien, and when they went to arrest his illegal alien father, the father ran.”

In less than ten seconds, Vance calls the boy’s father an alien twice, establishing this inherent difference between what the administration sees as human and subhuman.

This was no mistake or classic case of repetition. This speech was written, proofread and read out to the nation by the vice president. It is clear that this is the type of language they want to see Americans using. It’s hard to tolerate ICE kidnapping and detaining two people, one of them a minor, who came from Ecuador, used a U.S. port of entry and had an open asylum case. It’s much easier when you see them as aliens.

A few seconds later, Vance throws up his hands and says, “The story is ICE detained a five-year-old. Well what were they supposed to do?” Not only does this minimize the severity of what ICE agents have done, it openly condones it.

A point to remember: ICE agents should not have arrested the boy and his father in the first place.

The conservative idea around immigration policy is if people use the proper protocols to come into the country, they can stay. These people did exactly that and still managed to be kidnapped and detained. What were they supposed to do? They shouldn’t have detained them. That’s what they were supposed to do.

Later, when a video of seven ICE agents tackling and shooting Alex Pretti surfaced, the administration not only defended the agents, but did so aggressively. Their belief is that Pretti injected himself into the situation with a weapon.

There is no evidence that Pretti took out this weapon, which he legally had the right to own and carry. What there is evidence of, however, is the agents taking the gun from Pretti before killing him.

Carrying a gun does not give federal law enforcement the right to kill you, owning a weapon with a permit is your constitutional right. Protesting is also your constitutional right, both of which Pretti was doing at the time of his death. ICE agents are violating the law in broad daylight. The administration is defending it. They are turning their back against the people they are sworn to protect. This is crucial to know and understand now, because the day is approaching when they won’t need excuses and they can kill or detain anyone without a reason. Anyone could be next.

A$AP Rocky Returns with ‘Don’t Be Dumb,’ a Bold and Experimental Triumph

After an eight-year hiatus, Rocky blends genres, reflection and risk on his fourth studio album.

Jason

Petrucci | Jan. 28, 2026

After eight years and a jail trip to Sweden (shoutout Donald Trump), Pretty Flacko is back.

A$AP Rocky, one of the most experimental and impactful cloud hip-hop artists ever, released his fourth studio album, titled “Don’t Be Dumb.”

Rocky uses the title as a directive for both himself and listeners to avoid past mistakes. In the album’s concluding message, he encourages the audience to not be “dumb” in the ways he had been, urging listeners to cherish loved ones and not be led astray by superficial distractions.

The 15 track album swims through several genres, including jazz, heavy metal, indie rock and his iconic psychedelic hip-hop sound. Rocky describes the project as a “movie,” woven together by six different alter egos that narrate his experience during his eight-year hiatus.

The music meshes together fashion and visuals, aided by several music videos released throughout the highly anticipated drop.

The Build-up

The build-up for the album began in the middle of 2024, when Rocky dropped two singles, “HIGHJACK” and “Tailor Swif.” Both tracks followed a similar hip-hop flow and were considered “dull” by fans, sparking concerns that the eight-year wait wouldn’t be worth it.

The album was originally set to release Aug. 30, 2024, but just eight days before the launch, Rocky announced a delay due to “sampling clearance issues.” The album was rescheduled for fall 2024, then pushed back to early 2025 due to extensive leaks, which caused Rocky to scrap half the project. Legal trouble in February 2025 forced Rocky to again pause production, leaving fans without a clear release date.

Then, out of nowhere in November 2025, Rocky appeared at Camp Flog Gnaw wearing a hoodie with the numbers “01162026.” A few weeks later, the album was officially announced.

The Review

Three weeks into 2026, an album has already dropped that would have tested any project released in 2025 for album of the year. Rocky did what he does best — delivering experimental music that leaves fans wanting more of that same style.

From the jump, that was the case, with the first single leading up to the official album release, “Punk Rocky,” doing just that. The track explores a bruised romance and the frustration of a failed relationship, all while carrying the same mistakes into the future. It isn’t the average hip-hop Rocky release, instead blurring several genres, including indie, psychedelic rock and hazy dream rap — similar to the fan-favorite “Sundress” from 2018.

Following that release, Rocky dropped a track with a completely different style, returning to his core hip-hop roots. “Helicopter” boasts about Rocky’s role as a trendsetter in the industry, while others copy the style he claims to have invented. The track instantly stands out, highlighting his return to the trap scene, amplified by a raw flow that allows Rocky to do what he does best, effortlessly switch flows. The two singles built the perfect amount of hype for an album that

flew miles above expectations. The project opens with “ORDER OF PROTECTION,” which serves as a summary of where Rocky has been over the last eight years, addressing his ability to bounce back from several challenges, including legal trouble.

Following the opener and an interlude, Rocky delivers “STOLE YA FLOW,” which hits instantly like a flashbang. The track is aimed at Drake, with the two stars last feuding in 2024 through a song on Future’s collaboration album We Still Don’t Trust You. Rocky claims Drake “stole his flow,” then follows with “then I stole your bi*ch,” referencing his partner Rihanna, whom Drake dated between 2009 and 2016. The flow Rocky references comes from a track on Drake’s last solo album, “Fear of Heights.”

After three straight hip-hop tracks, Rocky turns to R&B, delivering a song alongside Brent Faiyaz, who sings over the beat of “Mewtwo” by Ken Carson. Faiyaz and Rocky have collaborated previously, appearing together on Faiyaz’s most recent project. Rocky carries the R&B element into the next track, “PLAYA,” where he reflects on his lifestyle, personal growth and stable family life.

The second half of the album is where the project exemplifies Rocky’s ability to experiment with new sounds. “STFU” does just that, delivering a wacky metal track featuring Slay Squad. The lyrics play on intrusive questions, stating, “When are you and Rihanna — STFU,” followed by, “Like when’s the new album gonna — STFU.”

The next track, “AIR FORCE,” draws comparisons to Kanye West’s iconic “On Sight,” delivering abrasive rap before suddenly switching to a heavenly dream-pop ballet melody, giving listeners whiplash. The song then switches back to rap before another tonal shift, where fans claim to hear a slight hum from beloved artist Frank Ocean, who has been absent from the music scene for several years.

The standout track is “DON’T BE DUMB/TRIP BABY,” which essentially functions as two songs. The track blends elements of psychedelic cloud rap, lo-fi and bedroom pop. The first half — produced by longtime collaborator Clams Casino — features some of Rocky’s best work to date. The song pauses at the 2:31 mark with a robotic definition of the word “dumb” before switching into a hard-hitting rap finish.

Overall, “Don’t Be Dumb” leaves fans satisfied while still wanting more. Rocky has been one of the most consistent artists in the genre when it comes to discography, delivering five cohesive projects that blend together seamlessly.

On his latest effort, it’s clear Rocky put in the time, crafting an album he was not only proud of, but genuinely enjoyed making. Just two weeks after its official release, the album already sits above “TESTING,” his 2018 project that explored similar experimental ideas.

2026 is shaping up to be the year of A$AP Rocky. From new clothing lines to fashion trends and a world tour that lands in Queens, NY, on June 7, there is plenty for fans to anticipate.

That includes the potential release of a deluxe edition, which Rocky hinted at following the album’s release. Fans are expected to receive a “disc two,” which Rocky described as being “for the fans,” featuring several additional guest appearances.

In a World of Hate, Bad Bunny Celebrates Love

Through song and representation, Bad Bunny shows his love for Puerto Rico.

Celina

Mullady | Feb. 9, 2026

Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, famously known as Bad Bunny, made history at this year’s Super Bowl, becoming the first Puerto Rican-born performer to headline the NFL Super Bowl LX, as well as the first performance predominantly in Spanish.

Ocasio, who just won Album of the Year at the 2026 Grammys, continued to share his starpower with this year’s Super Bowl half-time show. His 13-minute performance was not only a spectacle with lively dancers, special guests and extravagant sets, but a true love letter to his home of Puerto Rico.

The performance highlighted cultural aspects of Puerto Rico. These aspects included a variety of cultural identities and visuals: a sugar cane plantation, men playing Dominoes, Piragua—a traditional Puerto Rican dessert—to boxers, paying homage to some of the legendary Puerto Rican athletes such as Félix “Tito” Trinidad and Carlos Ortiz.

Ocasio performed some of his biggest hits like, “Nuevayol”—which includes audio from Trinidad—and “Baile Inolvidable.”

The performance even featured some of the artist’s lesser-known songs like “El Apagón,” which is a reference to Puerto Rico’s continuous blackouts after Hurricane Maria. In the same song, themes of diaspora, gentrification and heritage are mentioned.

“Esta es mi tierra, esta soy yo Esta es mi playa, este es mi sol (This is my beach, this is my sun. This is my land, this is me),” sings Ocasio.

Among the festivities and pride were many special guests. Ricky Martin and Lady Gaga performed songs alongside Ocasio, while non-musical guests included Alix Earle, Cardi B, Jessica Alba and Pedro Pascal. These guests represented a plethora of diverse ethnic backgrounds, highlighting Ocasio’s goal with this performance—celebration and recognition.

Through his performance, Ocasio showcased the variety and diversity of the Puerto Rican American experience. While many tend to forget,

Puerto Rico is an American territory, and their experience is just as much of the “American experience” as any other in the United States. He showed the ups, the downs and the very Latino pride that is being targeted in the United States.

He ended his performance on a hopeful note, flying every North, Central and South American country’s flag, shouting them out on a national level. Ocasio sends the reminder that America also includes North, South and Central—not just the United States.

In the background, the words “THE ONLY THING MORE POWERFUL THAN HATE IS LOVE” shone on a large screen. These words, while simple, portray a powerful message to those feeling scared and hopeless in the current political climate. In the words of Ocasio, “Together, We are America.”

Not only was his performance a celebration of Puerto Rico, but it was an uplifting moment in an otherwise gloomy world. Ocasio was successfully able to celebrate, appreciate and send a message of love rather than hate.

Harry Styles New Single

‘Let’s the Light In’

Styles releases

his newest danceable pop track, “Aperture.”

SaMantha agourSalidiS | Jan. 24, 2026

It has officially been three years since Harry Styles released new music, and fans have been dying for a new song to drop. Styles announced his new album, “Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally,” Thursday, Jan. 15. His latest single, “Aperture,” released this past Thursday, is a danceable, easy-going opening track for his fourth studio album.

Despite the album being named “Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally,” this single focuses on a more synth-based techno-pop sound. The opening electric beat immediately makes you think of a club or dancefloor, and forces you to want to move. Although not a disco song in its own right, it has the essence of disco culture—exciting nightlife and a groovy electric beat.

The lyrics of the single center around themes of unity. With the repeated phrase “We belong together,” it’s as though Styles is encouraging people to get together, listen to the song and just dance. It also contains several themes of love and vulnerability. With lines like, “I wanna know what safe is…I won’t stray from it,” being emotionally open and honest.

Cleverly named “Aperture,” it seems Styles is trying to tell his listeners an important message. Aperture is a camera function that, when adjusted, as Styles’ lyrics say, “lets the light in,” and that is precisely what this track does. It doesn’t take itself too seriously and is meant to encourage dancing, closeness and a beautiful openness between listeners.

It’s a carefully selected track that doesn’t attempt to be too daring or experimental, but still strays slightly from Styles’ old sound. The new direction of this techno-pop sound comes at a good time in the modern music scene, as rave culture becomes an increasingly popular activity among young people. Following a decent single release, the rest of the album is highly anticipated.

Markiplier’s ‘Iron Lung’ Moves Movie Market

The independently financed horror film grossed more than $17 million in its opening weekend.

Isabella athanasIou | Feb. 7, 2026

A 127‑minute horror film adapted from a 45‑minute indie video game would normally raise questions about pacing and audience appeal.

For YouTuber Mark Fischbach, better known as Markiplier, it became a rare box office break through.

“Iron Lung” premiered on Jan. 30, with ini tial plans to show in just 50 to 100 independent theaters. However, support from Fischbach’s 38.2 million YouTube subscribers and early ticket sales helped push the release into 3,015 theaters in the U.S. and Canada, as well as about 1,200 inter nationally. Major chains, including AMC, Regal and Cinemark were quick to add the movie to their weekend schedules.

Photo Courtesy / Instagram Ray Mock

Fischbach’s self financed film earned $17.8 million domestically during opening weekend, according to Box Office Mojo, and another $3 million internationally for a worldwide total of $20.8 million.

That is seven times the $3 million budget Fis chback put up himself, a rare return for a project without studio backing.

“Iron Lung” finished second at the box of fice for the weekend behind Sam Raimi’s “Send Help,” and outrun Amazon MGM Studios’ doc umentary “Melania” which landed in the third spot. “Iron Lung” briefly topped Friday’s daily box office chart, but “Send Help” ended up in first place for the weekend as the totals settled.

“Iron Lung” is based on the 2022 horror game with the same name created by David Szymanski. Fischbach wrote, directed, edited and starred as the main character in the adaptation.

The post apocalyptic plot takes place almost en tirely inside a cramped, rusted submarine navigat ing a vast ocean of blood on an unexplored moon after a future event known as the “Quiet Rapture” wiped out all stars and habitable planets.

Not enough humans survived the event to rebuild, and there isn’t enough food to feed the ones who are left. Survivors, desperate for re sources, send a lone convict on a mission that could determine humanity’s fate.

Fischbach plays Simon, a prisoner promised freedom in exchange for completing the jour ney down deep. The film centers on fear of the unknown and the human drive to survive at all costs.

The film starts slowly, and viewers unfamil iar with the game may find it confusing at first. Much of the story is unclear until the second half. Once it picks up, Markiplier delivers a strong

performance showing a range of emotions while trapped in an unchanging space that offers no help. The dialogue is minimal but effective, and the tension comes from the constant uncertainty over Simon’s fate combined with him not being able to see what he is up against directly.

Since he is deep in an ocean of blood, he can not see through the red that paints his one win dow. Instead, he is left to see through X ray photographs, each emitting bits of radiation, to view the terrifying creatures that are beneath the surface.

He may be steering the submarine, but the situ ation is entirely out of his control.

He has various conversations with the people who put him in this position, where he reports his findings, pleads for his life and uncovers the ways he was lied to. Through it all, he is driven by a simple goal: to come out alive.

The movie does not expand on the game’s lore and stays true to the source material. It feels more like a tribute or piece of art than a thorough plot, which makes sense considering this was a passion project for Fischbach.

Fans looking for a detailed account of the game’s story may be disappointed, but the canon portrayal reached the audience it was aiming for.

Iron Lung was originally a limited release only in theaters its opening weekend. On Feb. 3, Markiplier announced that the film will return to theaters on Feb. 6 with additional showings in more places, giving it the opportunity to remain a contender at the box office if ticket sales stay strong. The return will continue to add to its $20.8 million total.

Showings are scheduled at local theaters starting this week and may vary by location.

The Best Movies of 2025

James Williams | Nov. 21, 2025

“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery”

“Wake Up Dead Man” is the colder, more thought ful and faithfully devoted member of Johnson’s “Knives Out” family. Built around an implausible death inside of a secret room in an ancient church, the murder at the center of this mystery is the most enthralling and perplexing of the franchise.

“Sinners”

But the film’s secret weapon isn’t Ludwig Görans son’s score, the impeccable production design of 1930s Mississippi or even two Michael B. Jordans, but Miles Caton’s acting debut as Sammie. En trusted with multiple musical sequences and being placed as the emotional crux of the film, Caton rises to the occasion in a star making performance.

“Sinners” should become a watershed moment in big budget filmmaking, there has not been a more soundly made or well rounded blockbuster released in recent yearss.

“

No Other Choice”

Maestro filmmaker Park Chan wook’s “No Other Choice” is the latest in a long career of masterpiec es. Most known for his hyper violent “Vengeance Trilogy” or the twisted fairytale “The Handmaid en,” Chan Wook chooses to examine the rapidly disappearing middle class in this darkly comedic familial drama.

Shifting from moments of graphic brutality to unnerving hilarity, “No Other Choice” manages to effortlessly change its tone in each moment and keep the audience guessing at every turn while flaunting one of the defining lead performances of the year.

“Weapons”

One of 2025’s biggest commercial surprises was the genre blending horror film “Weapons,” eclipsing nearly $270 million compared to a $38 million budget. “Weapons” success can be attributed to clever marketing, but the immense quality of the film speaks for itself.

Splicing horror elements seen in director Zach Cregger’s previous film “Barbarian” with a sprawl ing ensemble cast of characters reminiscent of the 1999 character drama “Magnolia” results in a solely unique cinematic experience and polished sophomore film from Cregger.

“One Battle After Another”

Despite its absurdities, the film’s comments on activism and political ideology are grounded in re ality. Through characters like Leonardo DiCaprio’s comedic turn as “Bob Ferguson,” a retired revolu tionary and now full time stoner, or Chase Infiniti’s breakout role as his daughter “Willa Ferguson,” the unbreakable spirit of revolution and the need for a fight for good can be seen throughout the film.

While being one of the most timely and themat ically rich films of the year, it is also the most complete film of the year, standing on par with Anderson’s previous masterworks such as “There Will Be Blood” or “Boogie Nights.”

“One Battle After Another” may be immortalized on March 15 at the 2026 Oscars, but it shouldn’t take a golden statue to realize it’s the best film of the year, and one of the best this decade.

No. 17 St. John’s Defeats Xavier In OT

“I come away being really proud of my son,” Rick Pitino said after his second in-conference matchup against his son Richard Pitino and his Xavier Musketeers.

The inaugural Big East matchup for the Pitinos ended in victory for the now No. 17 St. John’s at 88-83; a high scoring game that offered a glimpse of foreshadowing into their second game.

A familiar formula fronted St. John’s their first 14 points in this rematch: playing through their stars.

Oziyah Sellers (11 pts, 4-11 FG), Bryce Hopkins (19 pts, 9 rebs, 9-11 FTs) and Zuby Ejiofor (25 pts, 7 rebs, 9-13 FG) were the only avenues of offense for the Johnnies, combining for these 14 points in the first seven minutes of play. But the threeman offense wasn’t enough to keep St. John’s afloat, as Xavier’s three-level scorer Malik Messina-Moore (11 pts, 3-8 FG) and crafty big man Jovan Milicevic (13 pts, 5-12 FG) torched the Johnnies again.

After a five point swing netted Xavier a 24-19 lead, neither of the Pitinos could secure their squad a comfortable cushion as the two traded baskets.

It became clear that this would be a battle won in the trenches, with Milicevic for the Musketeers and Ejiofor for the Johnnies leading both armies. Xavier and St. John’s scored over half of their

points from the paint, but it was the Red Storm that scored more at 28-22; they also corralled more rebounds at 21-17.

The shortest player on Rick Pitino’s roster, Dylan Darling (16 pts, 5 rebs, 4 asts), exploded for eight points all from free throws or driving layups in the final five minutes of the half.

“I started off slow but ‘Coach P’ gave me confidence,” Darling said after the game in regards to his Hall of Fame coach’s trust in him. “I’ve been trying to be the calm in chaos at the end of games, to try and settle everyone down.”

Darling’s giant slaying efforts brought the Johnnies into the half even with Xavier at 42-42.

The Johnnies, fueled by more Darling free throws, still held strong with a three point lead with two minutes remaining. And just as they saw their 10th straight victory in sight… it was all jeopardized.

Tre Carroll’s (21 pts, 8 rebs, 9-21 FG) clutch floater finished off another five point swing in favor of the Musketeers, giving Xavier a crucial two point lead with under 30 seconds left on the clock.

Multiple missed shots from Hopkins and Sellers seemingly spelled out defeat for the Red Storm, all before Sellers followed-up his own miss with a put-back layup that tied the con-

Torch Top-25, Week

14

It’s officially bid-hunting season. Teams make their final cases for spots in the best tournament in all of sports — March Madness.

Top 25

1. Arizona(23-0) (-)

2. Michigan(22-1) (-)

3. Iowa State(32-3) (+4)

4. Duke(21-2) (-1)

5. Gonzaga(23-2) (+1)

6. UConn(22-2) (-2)

7. Houston(21-2) (+3)

8. North Carolina(19-4) (+4)

9. Michigan State(20-4) (-)

10. Nebraska(21-2) (-1)

test at 78-all, giving St. John’s five more minutes to extend their win streak.

To begin overtime, the Red Storm turned to one of their most trusted (if not frustrating) scoring strategies: free throws. In just five minutes of play time, the Johnnies shot eight free throws and forced three Musketeers to foul out: Messina-Moore, Carroll and Isaiah Walker (7 pts, 3-3 FG).

While the subtext of the Big East’s second “Pitino Bowl” wasn’t as dramatic as Jan. 24, the on-court product was just as thrilling and the result stayed the same in the end as St. John’s won by a final score of 87-82.

“All the credit goes to Richard, his staff and his players,” Rick Pitino said after the game, giving nothing but praise to his son’s Musketeers. “They’ve outplayed us twice… I hope we don’t play them in the Big East Tournament.”

Now after two nail-biting victories — one over the No. 3 team in the nation and one against Pitino’s potential heir apparent — vibes could not be higher for the Red Storm.

Their next chance to reach 11 straight in-conference victory comes against the Providence Friars in Rhode Island for a Valentine’s Day matchup.

11. Kansas(18-5) (-)

12. Illinois(20-4) (-7)

13. Florida(17-6) (+3)

14. Texas Tech(17-6) (-1)

15. Purdue(19-4) (-1)

16. St. John’s(18-5) (+5)

17. Virginia(20-3) (-)

18. St. Louis(23-1) (+2)

19. Louisville(17-6) (-)

20. Vanderbilt(19-4) (-6)

21. Miami (OH) (24-0) (+1)

22. Arkansas(17-6) (+1)

23. BYU(17-6) (-5)

24. Iowa(18-5) (+1)

25. Clemson(20-4) (NR)

BUBBLE TEAMS:

Wisconsin(17-7)

Texas A&M(17-7)

Miami(19-5)

TCU(15-9)

Saint Mary’s(22-4)

Santa Clara(22-5)

Indiana(17-8)

United States Hockey: These Guys Aren’t Golden

The U.S. Olympic men’s Ice Hockey team doesn’t have the correct goal in mind.

Michael O’Grady | Feb.12, 2026

To the American people,

If you have any interest in the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, you’ve probably heard the NHL is sending its players to the men’s ice hockey tournament for the first time in 12 years.

If you think the best of the best in hockey, chances are your mind goes to Canada. Hockey is Canada’s national sport, and it produces the most NHL players. In the five Olympic tournaments that have included NHL players, Canada has won three gold medals, defeating the United States en route to all three. Vancouver 2010 was particular heartbreak for Team USA. The gold-medal game went to overtime, but Canada’s Sidney Crosby dashed hopes for American glory by scoring the winner on home ice in an all-time Olympic moment.

In the hockey world, it’s common knowledge that Canada is once again the favorite. Crosby is still here and still great sixteen years later, and he’s joined by megastars Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. Macklin Celebrini, Brad Marchand, Mitch Marner and Sam Reinhart are just a few of the other stars that fill out this stacked roster, and they are coached by Jon Cooper, who has guided a decade-plus of Tampa Bay Lightning excellence.

Last year, the NHL replaced its traditional All-Star Game with the 4 Nations Face-Off, a small tournament that pitted the best NHL players from Canada, the USA, Sweden and Finland against each other. Particularly, the Canada-USA clashes made waves; they played twice amid a tense political backdrop. The first was a USA victory with three separate fights, and the second was the “championship” game, where McDavid scored the overtime winner.

It is because of that result, more than anything, that Team USA will not flip the script in Milan and win the country a third gold medal in men’s ice hockey.

Running on revenge is not a winning strategy, and it’s obvious that is what Team USA is after. NBC produced a commercial with Jon Hamm recently in which he speaks to the USA locker room. He tells the team their duty is to bring home “the biggest prize of all,” when he is suddenly interrupted by Jack Eichel.

“Canadian tears,” Eichel says bluntly, and the commercial continues where Hamm realizes the true vitriol of the American players toward Canada, with quick flashback cuts to the 4 Nations.

None of the rest of Team USA’s roster are bad players, but the desire for revenge appears to have clouded effective decision-making.

Team USA is tasked with Latvia, Denmark and Germany in the group stage. There is no question this is a group it absolutely should win, but if that happens, don’t expect it to go smoothly and don’t be surprised when the bottom falls out afterward.

Be prepared for a men’s ice hockey gold medal drought to extend to 50 years, and don’t seek respite in the French Alps 2030 Olympics, when big, bad Canada will have added Connor Bedard and Matthew Schaefer. When Team USA fails in Milan, be angry about it, because it will come out of preventable hubris.

After all, Canadian tears don’t win gold medals.

St. John’s WBB Wins Third Straight

The Red Storm were victorious in a hard-fought 67-61 victory over Seton Hall.

Michael O’Grady | Feb. 12, 2026

St. John’s women’s basketball (19-7, 9-6 Big East Conference) prevailed in another defensive battle, this time against Seton Hall (15-8, 9-5) on Feb. 7, winning 67-61 at Carnesecca Arena.

In the latest of numerous St. John’s games this season that featured low scoring quarters, the Johnnies’ 21-point third quarter proved to be the primary difference in the win over their local rivals. St. John’s has now won three straight, having beaten Providence and Xavier after a 30-point loss at Creighton.

Sa’Mya Wyatt led the way for the Johnnies, scoring a game-high 20 points on 9-for-12 shooting, which included just her fourth and fifth three-pointers of the season. Daniela Abies controlled the glass, grabbing twelve rebounds total, and Jailah Donald facilitated the offense in her 37 minutes with five assists.

The Pirates’ Mariana Valenzuela and Savannah Catalon combined for 30 points, but Seton Hall as a team shot poorly, going 37.3% from the field (compared to 50% for St. John’s) while shooting 5-for-22 from deep. It was a waste, considering the Pirates owned the turnover battle, 23-9; Donald alone was responsible for six of those.

St. John’s Head Coach Joe Tartamella knew it wasn’t a perfect game, giving a sarcastic “yeah, thanks,” to a reporter when told his team had 23 turnovers, but he thought the Johnnies played well overall.

“We played as tough as we’ve played all year,” he said. “Trying to overcome a number of turnovers there, but in terms of the glass and how we played, we shot it really well today, which is a huge factor, and I thought our defense was strong enough especially through the first

three quarters.”

At first, it felt as if the game would have a very different story. Seton Hall jumped out to a 9-1 lead within two minutes and 30 seconds, aided by the Johnnies being careless with the ball. Though that would continue, the defense tightened up from there, limiting the Pirates to just five more points over the quarter and 25 by the end of the half.

In the third, St. John’s pushed out to a 35-25 lead before slowly allowing Seton Hall to cut the deficit to four. From there, it pulled away again and kept a lead it would keep for the game’s remainder, helped by timely three-pointers from Beautiful Waheed and Kylie Lavelle. The Pirates stayed close in the fourth, but their poor shooting prevented a comeback.

“If I had the right answer, I’d probably be a lot more sane in the brain,” Tartamella said when asked how he betters his team coming out of halftime. “But they were locked in this morning, and I felt pretty good. We typically have different types of shootarounds, and I felt they were very locked in this morning…In the locker room, it’s just more of continuing to build on the categories we wanna win and try to continue to take away certain things.”

Still in the thick of the college basketball season, St. John’s has five more Big East games until the tournament, starting with a Feb. 10 match at DePaul with a 7 p.m. tip-off. The Johnnies return to Queens on Feb. 18 when they take on Georgetown.

SPORTS

Three of a Kind:

St. John's defeats UConn

Feb. 6 — the day circled on calendars by all college basketball viewers finally arrived — the godfather and the carpenter were set to clash at the Garden on primetime coverage. St. John’s pulled off their first season-sweep last year since the 1999-2000 season, earning themselves Big East regular season and tournament bragging rights.

The sold-out show at the World’s Greatest Arena was loud — both passionate fanbases showing up for the biggest contest between the two programs in almost 25 years. The show, ending in a 81-72 St. John’s victory — showcasing the sea of red.

“I said it was 70% St. John’s fans, 30% UConn fans, it was probably 90/10,” said Rick Pitino. “It was a tremendous crowd, I’m proud of our fans and excited for them. I thought the Garden was as good as I’ve seen it.”

From the tip-off, the energy was erotic, fans pulling their vocal cords at the site of Dillon Mitchell flying to the basket for an emphatic slam. The Cincinnati transfer opened the frame strong — scoring six of the first eight Red Storm points.

“You can’t,” said Mitchell on comparing this contest to past experiences. “The fans are loud — we pick off a lot on that. We play hard, not only for the fans, but for us. It’s exciting to hear, and it’s definitely different. It’s something that I’m blessed to be a part of.”

In the biggest game of his career, Mitchell totaled 15 points — going 7-9 from the field with six rebounds and two assists.

The first half was a back-and-forth grind, with both teams gaining momentum-switching spurts throughout the first 10 minutes of play.

“You have to be in great shape to do what they do,” said UConn coach Dan Hurley. “What they do disrupts your ability to get into what you want to do.”

The full-court press was a true wild card pulled out of Rick Pitino’s back pocket — utilizing it on every UConn possession to back them against the wall. Forced turnovers were a driving force — with the Red Storm totaling 15 forced turnovers, scoring 15 points.

“I had probably had 15 times where I could’ve had the five-second call,” said Pitino. “The press wears you out, but we did an amazing

job in all aspects.”

Four different Johnnies finished the evening with 30+ minutes, even with Dillon Mitchell, who provided top notch energy on both ends of the court, playing 35 minutes. Ejiofor provided one of his best, and most essential performances to date — totaling 21 points with 10 rebounds and seven assists, tying a career-high while playing 34 minutes. It is now the fourth time this season where the preseason Big East Player Of The Year has scored at least 20 points with at least 10 rebounds.

“You’re going to make me retire,” Pitino said to Ejiofor. “I’m not living life without you.”

The final buzzer sounded — St. John’s had closed it out, the Red Storm were victorious. This is the first three-game win streak for St. John’s against UConn since the 1999-00 season — where they defeated the Huskies three times in a single season.