the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
winter 2018
the the
magazine of of the the students students of of magazine
the university university of of miami miami the
Fall 2018 2018 winter
HOOKED ON
SEAFOOD
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
winter 2018
THE
DEEPEND
the
magazine magazine of the students of
the the university university of miami
winter 2018
NIP’N
TUCK FASHION
Movement Winter 2018
illustrations_sophie robbins
Movement Winter 2018
illustrations_sophie robbins
Issue No.
38
Every Day I’m Hustlin’
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DISTRACTIONS
Winter 2018
Hooked on Seafood
32
19
The Deep End
56 Vitamins
68
Ultraviolet
Haitian Immigraton
84
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION
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CONT ENTS The Guide 8 Every Day I’m Hustlin’ 10 Cuban Coffee 12 Decrypting Cryptocurrency
In the Loop 16 A Vanity Affair 19 Hooked on Seafood 24 Bases Loaded 26 Can I Get a Hit?
Special Section 30 Mod Deco 32 The Deep End 35 Miami City Ballet 40 Range of Motion 42 Think Fast 44 High Speed Race 47 Drowning City 50 Motion Pictures – Social Change 2
DISTRACTION
Introduction
Health and Wellness 56 Lift Like a Girl 58 Take Your Vitamins 60 Plan A 62 Nip ’N Tuck
Fashion 68 Ultraviolet 74 The American Jean 76 I’m With the Band 78 Fast Fashion
Main Event 84 Haiti: Their American Struggle 88 A Musical Consensus 91 The Pay Gap 94 Red Tide
LETTER
from the
EDITOR
I’ve been on the go since I was nine months old. That’s how old I was when I started walking – an age far younger than either of my parents would have preferred, I’m sure. By the time I was three, walking had escalated to dancing and playing soccer. Fast forward – in the blink of an eye – to high school, and if I wasn’t doing one of these activities, it’s simply because I was in transition to the next. School to work. Work to soccer practice. Soccer practice to home, and back out for a study session. Whether engaging in an activity or bustling around my small, little beach town, movement persisted. For me, however, it was being in college that made me think of the word “movement” differently. Instead of representing physical motion, the word movement now had a stronger social implication – that of diversity, progress and struggle. Now, movement means many different things. Our winter issue was created with this sentiment in mind. From the graceful movements of Miami City Ballet dancers (page 35) to the high-speed racing of Miami’s past (page 44), this city is bustling with motion. Explore how our pace of living accentuates this hustle (page 42) and recognize how motion pictures have positively contributed to social change (page 50). Additionally, learn about both the epidemic and the trend overtaking the millennial generation: vaping (page 26) and plastic surgery (page 62). Throw it back to the early 2000s with our cyberpunk-inspired fashion editorial (page 68). Wrap up this issue by sympathizing with the struggle of South Florida’s 32,000 Haitian immigrants whose lives in America hang in the balance (page 84). Now, it’s your turn to stop all of the movement for a moment and #getdistracted. After you’ve read through the issue, you can pick up where you left off – or better yet, just be still.
the the
magazine of of the the students students of of magazine
the
the university university of of miami miami the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
LYGC,
THE COVERS
winter 2018
Fall 2018 2018 winter
1
Our handsome cover boy, Franklin the Lobster, crawled into our hearts one fateful Friday night and provided us with not only a delicious meal but a stunning cover shot. art direction_teddy willson. photo_gianna sanchez.
HOOKED ON
1
SEAFOOD
the
magazine of the students of
THE
DEEPEND
2 the
the university of miami
magazine magazine of the students of
the the university of miami
winter 2018
winter 2018
2
Distraction photographer, Charles Gonzales, is devoting full time to floating under the ~pool~.
3
Join us on our cyberpunk journey through time and space. Cover model Brett Weinstein hangs on for dear life in this edgy, badass fashion shoot.
art direction & photo_charles gonzalez.
art direction_michael haring. photo_sonia broman.
4 3
4
NIP’N
Face it – we’re in Miami. Plastic surgery is as common as beach days and brunches. Hear from Dr. Miami in our story about the city of nips and tucks. art direction & photo_olivia stauber.
TUCK
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION
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What’s your favorite dance move? the electric slide
The team takes a trip to the Louisville Slugger Museum in between sessions at a student media conference.
the pony
soulja boy
flossing
Managing Editor Gabby Rosenbloom and Editor-in-Chief Teddy Willson get oh so friendly with our freshest models from the seafood photoshoot.
The Team
Contributors
Editor-in-Chief_Teddy Willson Co-Executive Editor_Lindsey Bornstein Co-Executive Editor_Isabella Vaccaro Managing Editor_Gabby Rosenbloom Creative Director_Olivia Stauber Co-Art Director_ Joey Haas Co-Art Director_Michael Haring Co-Photo Editor_ Sonia Broman Co-Photo Editor_ Gianna Sanchez Assistant Photo Editor_Natalie Rey Illustrations Director_Sophie Robbins Assistant Art Director_Kelvine Moyers PR Manager_Elizabeth Pozzuoli Assistant PR Manager_Keagan Larkins
Jess Morgan, Designer Taylor Murdock, Designer Sydney Sapin, Designer Giselle Spicer, Designer the Olivia Baker, Writer dougie Olivia Campbell, Writer Thomas Guyton, Writer Maia Hunter, Writer Kristian Kranz, Writer Angelica Manos, Writer Shruti Mishra, Writer Jillian Paraiso, Writer Isabella Leroy, Writer Gabrielle Lord, Writer Abby Washer, Writer Section Editors: Sydney Burnett, Photographer The Guide Editor_Callie Jardine Kristian Del Rosario, Photographer In The Loop Editor_Olivia Ginsberg Charles Gonzalez, Photographer Special Section Editor_Anya Balsamides Sasha Manning, Photographer Health and Wellness Editor_Kayla Foster Alexis Paul, Photographer Fashion Editor_Abby Podolsky Noah Vesey, Photographer Main Event Editor_Elisa Baena Josh White, Photographer Grace Chepenik, Artist Business Manager_Andrew Leonard Natalie Abatemarco, PR Faculty Adviser_Randy Stano Jaime Harn, PR Corinne Issa, PR DISTRACTIONMAGAZINE.COM “Dirty Dancing” lift Paige Inslee, PR Digital Editor_Jorge Chabo Elle Jattin, PR Culture Blog Editor_Abigail Adeleke Ashley Joseph, PR Fashion Blog Editor_Makayla Manning Eliana Litos, PR Food Blog Editor_Dakota Regan Kate Rainerman, PR Travel Blog Editor_Marissa Vonesh Karina Sloan, PR
WE LIKE YOU When it comes to contributors, we’re not picky. Whether you’ve found your niche in a bio book, you’re notorious for doing “nothing” at the comm or business school or you’re halfway into your college career and still wave that “undeclared major” flag, we want to hear what you have to say. Distraction is an extracurricular/volunteer operation made for students, by students, and covers the full spectrum of student life here at The U. If you want to get involved or have any questions, comments or concerns email our editor-in-chief, Teddy Willson, at tdw41@miami.edu.
ABOUT US Co-Art Director Michael Haring and Co-Photo Editor Gianna Sanchez pose one of our stunning models at the fashion shoot.
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DISTRACTION
Introduction
The magazine is produced four times per year, twice a semester. City Graphics and Bellack Miami printed 8,000 copies of the magazine on 8.5 x 11 inch, 60-pound coated text paper 4/4. The entire magazine is printed four-color and perfect bound. Most text is nine-point Minion Pro with 9.8 points of leading set ragged with a combination of bold, medium and italic. All pages were designed using Adobe Creative Suite CC software InDesign with photographs and artwork handled in Photoshop and Illustrator. For additional information, please visit distractionmagazine.com. Questions and comments can be mailed to 1330 Miller Drive, Student Media Suite 202A, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, dropped into SSC Student Media Suite Suite 200 or emailed to tdw41@miami.edu. All articles, photographs and illustrations are copyrighted by the University of Miami.
WANT MORE? DISTRACTIONMAGAZINE.COM STARTING OVER ABROAD When I stepped off the plane in Prague, there were a lot of things I had not prepared for. I didn’t really know where my dorm was. I didn’t know the language. I barely knew what my summer reading assignments were. Worst of all (at least for my extra-extroverted self), I didn’t come to the Czech Republic with any friends or contacts.
PICNIC ON THE BEACH Have yourself a mini daycation and hit the beach with your best picnic set up! For an occasion like this, we like to pack lightly as it would be a couple friends who are just a little hungry. You don’t want to have too much food, but you also don’t want to have too little.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC The National Geographic Society held its inaugural NatGeo on Campus at the University of Miami on November 9-10th. Their goal is to empower the next generation so that they can understand and care for our planet. The first day of the event was packed with panels on topics ranging from raising awareness to the different social and ecological issues facing our world today, all of which centered around the idea of visual storytelling through photography and multimedia. The second day was filled with workshops in which the best of National Geographic taught visual storytelling techniques to students.
Read more online at www.distractionmagazine.com Winter 2018 DISTRACTION
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THE GUIDE
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DISTRACTION
The Guide
The Guide captures the thoughts of the Miami hipster and slaps them on a page. Despite being in-the-know, pretentious is not in The Guide reader’s vocabulary. Starbucks is out and typewriters are in – and if you ever need a suggestion for the best kombucha on the market, The Guide has you covered.
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION
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Every Day I’m
Hustlin’
Stressing about whether you have enough money to cover your daily triple-shot latte? How about that brunch after a night of clubbing? Make your bank account – and your parents – hate you a little less by taking on one of these jobs, ideal for busy students. words_ olivia ginsberg. photo_gianna sanchez. design_olivia ginsberg.
There is no end to the type of side jobs UM students can come up with to make a few bucks. Design students often create ads for local businesses. Photographers can take headshots for graduating seniors. Freshman, Haley Lanzoni, says that she “often models for photography students in order to pick up some extra cash.” The possibilities are plentiful.
Dog Walking
Dog walking is the perfect side gig for someone who adores furry friends. Not only do you get paid to walk all kinds of cute pups, you’ll also have the chance to exercise to keep up that year-round beach bod. To pick up dog-walking jobs, you can post online or use an app like Wag!. Hours are flexible and the average walk pays $10 to $15.
Club Promoter This one’s for the social butterfly who has a ton of connections. Make some money by promoting events to your friends. You’ll receive a portion of the profits for bringing them into the club or event. Festivals like III Points and local nightlife hangouts often post online looking for promoters to hype their events. Most promoters receive free entry or even VIP seating at the event, depending on the amount of business they generate.
Brand Ambassador
Are you interested in advertising or marketing a brand? Reach out to brands through social media platforms to see if they’re hiring ambassadors. Big-name companies like Aerie, Venmo, Express and Rent the Runway all have brand ambassador programs. Once you find a company, tasks range from hosting events and posting on social media to advertising special promotions to other students. This job requires little effort but has many benefits, and most companies are likely to send you free merchandise or offer post-graduation jobs.
Tutoring Geek squad unite. Impart your knowledge and gift for stellar grades to students in need of a GPA boost. There’s no shortage of struggling students who could use some help. If you love the subject you’re teaching, tutoring won’t feel like work. The University of Miami’s Camner Center or Student Athletics office are easy hookups for tutors, but homemade flyers or outside companies like Mathnasium get the job done, too.
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DISTRACTION
The Guide
Money doesn’t grow on trees. Sell Your Old Clothes
It’s the age of fast fashion, which means we all have a pile of clothes sitting in our closet that we’ll most likely never wear again. Instead of continuing to hoard or throw them away, you can sell your old clothes on sites like Poshmark or Ebay. Branch out of your own closet and take a trip to a local thrift store to purchase and resell vintage gems, for which passionate collectors will always pay top dollar.
Babysitting A stereotypical job for college students, babysitting can rake in anywhere from $10 to $30 an hour depending on the family. If you love kids, babysitting is a fun, interactive job that reaps big rewards. To find job listings, check websites such as University of Miami resource JobX or Care.com. Make sure to also ask around campus for connections to local families. Pro tip: oftentimes, busy professors need help looking after their kids.
Be a Blogger/Vlogger If you have an outgoing personality and want to increase your social media presence while earning money, consider starting a blog or vlog. Although blogging requires more work than other side hustles, it can lead to large profits. After building a following, brands may reach out to ask you to review their products. As a result, you can receive free products or become an affiliate of the brand. Successful bloggers or influencers regularly strike brand deals worth thousands of dollars.
There’s an app for that. Etsy: This web-based store allows creators to sell their handmade goods on a global scale. Etsy stores can sell anything from antique finds and vintage clothes to hand-knit blankets and customized accessories. Poshmark: Through this app, sellers have a platform to sell new and used clothes to people across the world. Sellers can choose any price for their clothes but must ship the product and handle customer service themselves.
Create Your Own Clothing Brand If graphic design comes easily to you, make some fast cash by starting your own clothing brand. Start by creating designs that follow popular fashion trends. Next, find a supplier to produce your product. Finally, start selling! Use host sites like Etsy and Shopify, or create your own website. Flea markets and small business events are also fantastic for showcasing your product to the public and building a following.
Wag!: Known as “the Uber for dogs,” Wag! allows dog owners to pair with independent dog walkers in their area. These dog walkers can choose which jobs to accept or decline.
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION
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CUBANCOFFEE
Forget “it’s 5 o’clock somewhere.” In Miami, we prefer 3:05 – time for a cafecito! Spice up your typical Americano coffee the Miami way: with a touch of Cuban flare. Whether you’re in need of a morning pick-me-up or desperate for a late-night study buddy, a colada could be your saving grace. words_gabby rosenbloom. photo_noah vesey. design_gabby rosenbloom. illustration_sophie robbins.
10 DISTRACTION The Guide
How To Make It Ask any Miami native, and they’ll tell you there is a very specific way of making a Cuban coffee. Any alterations to the process will render the final product unrecognizable. To begin, grab a moka pot, or an aluminum stovetop espresso maker. Next, fill the filter with coffee and position it in the pot. By this point, the water should be boiling. For a pleasing taste, add sugar to the cup. Once the coffee is brewed and ready, the whole house will smell just like your abuela’s cocina. Mix the coffee and sugar into one delicious cup of Cuba. When it’s time for your second dose of caffeine remember that this isn’t the only cup of traditional Cuban joe to try!
Cafecito The most traditional form of Cuban espresso – one shot with some sugar mixed in – is also the most popular of these delicacies. The heat from the coffee-making process causes the sugar to crystallize slightly, which gives it that famous Cuban coffee crunch. Variations of traditional cafecito include café con leche, the cortadito and the colada.
Café Con Leche As the traditional Cuban breakfast beverage, café con leche is the only type of Cuban coffee that does not come presweetened. When ordered at a restaurant, it comes in two separate cups: one with milk (steamed or unsteamed) and one with the espresso. By having each of the two separated, you can decide exactly which portions you would like of each.
Cortadito For coffee newbies who aren’t ready for straight-no-chaser espresso, a cortadito is a cafecito topped with steamed whole milk, which is much easier on the stomach than the original Cuban staple. The ratio of milk to coffee is traditionally 50/50 or 75/25, making the coffee flavor less extreme. Craving a sweeter taste? Go for a cortadito con evaporada by substituting the whole milk with sweet, steamed evaporated milk.
Colada Resembling a Starbucks black coffee in a Styrofoam cup, the Cuban colada is pure espresso. This drink comes with three to six shots per cup. If you order this Cuban “rocket fuel” at a restaurant, waiters bring thimble-sized plastic cups for sharing with the table – a sign that colada packs a strong punch.
Local Hotspots Miami is the hottest spot for Cuban coffee in the United States. Here are several hidden gems in the realm of Miami Cuban coffee.
1. Vicky’s Café Located at the University of Miami, Vicky’s is a franchise location of the famous Vicky Bakery, a Cuban outpost that began in Hialeah in 1972. Affordable menu items range from pastelitos and croquetas to, of course, some rich coffee options.
2. Versailles Cuban Bakery Little Havana is a haven for the most authentic Cuban coffee in Miami. Versailles has been serving Miami locals authentic Cuban drinks and food for four decades.
3. David’s Café Cafecito If you’re looking to venture to Miami Beach for your cafecito while supporting a small family business, head to David’s Café. Offering coffee with breakfast, lunch and dinner, David’s Café is sure to please with its authentic Cuban delicacies.
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION 11
DECRYPTING CRYPTOCURRENCY words_kristian katz. design_giselle spicer.
What is cryptocurrency? How does it work? Many questions circle the seemingly intimidating world of cryptocurrency. As complicated as it may seem, once decrypted, it’s a breeze.
What is Currency?
Peer-to-Peer
The first battle to overcome before jumping into cryptocurrency is understanding regular currency. Every country has a system of centralized currency with its own government agencies and institutions. The United States, for example, uses the U.S. dollar as its form of currency and the Federal Reserve as its regulatory body. In these centralized systems, banks work as the middleman between parties, keeping a book of all transactions. The book listing all these financial transactions is known as a ledger. Requiring much trust and discretion, this system is subject to human error. Denoting incorrect monetary amounts or causing a system failure of any magnitude could wreak havoc. Therefore, there is a demand for other electronic currencies to enter the marketplace.
Cryptocurrency and, more specifically, Bitcoin, the most popular form of cryptocurrency, are completely decentralized, meaning there is no central government or banks to oversee the transactions. They work by manner of a “peer-to-peer” universal ledger. This universal ledger is like one huge book in which everyone can write their transactions down and see other written transactions. Regarded as the heart of cryptocurrency, the “peer-to-peer” communities are made up of all the users within each different cryptocurrency. All user interaction is tracked and communicated to other users, leaving no need for an administrative system influence.
What is Mining? Mining is another layer of the expansive block chain security. Essentially, miners work as the last users to check and verify transactions before adding them to the chain. They implement cryptographic functions to solve complex math problems. Once solved, the block is added to the chain, creating a new problem for miners to tackle and expand the chain. Bitcoin miners are well-rewarded for their efforts. Each block added to the chain creates bitcoins from a newly-created supply that go straight to the miners’ wallets. Bitcoin and other types of cryptocurrencies have a set amount of coins that can be mined and recycled. As a result, there are a finite amount of resources available to miners. It’s interesting to note that each bitcoin currently in rotation has been mined at some point in time.
12 DISTRACTION The Guide
Block Chain When a request is made to send or receive bitcoin, the transaction must be verified by all users on the network before it can be irreversibly added to the universal ledger. If you send your friend five bucks, everyone is going to see it and if there are any problems, then it gets denied and doesn’t get added to the chain. Because transactions are essentially just bits of data, they are stored in a unit known as a “block.” The universal ledger is made of many blocks, forming a “block chain.” Comparable to a massive list, a block chain is reviewed and updated once transactions are universally validated. Blocks of transactions are added to the chain by solving a very complex math problem, created by a cryptographic function, hence the name “cryptocurrency.” The first person to solve the problem adds the next block to the chain, creating a new problem. The individuals who solve these complex problems are known as “miners.”
Block Chain In A Box Block chain is the main technology driving revolutions in digital currency. It allows for information to be distributed, but not copied. As a result, each individual piece of information is only owned by one person. Comparable to a spreadsheet that is worked on by thousands of people at the same time who each own particular cells in the sheet, a block chain is constantly updated with new information.
IN THE LOOP
14 DISTRACTION In the Loop
In the Loop is the yin to The Guide’s yang. Take your favorite feel-good topics and dig a little deeper. From the delicacies of the foods that everyone knows and loves, to the hobbies that you never knew you would adore, In the Loop takes what’s in your heart and places it deeper into your mind.
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION 15
A VANITY AFFAIR
What was once a life of vanity, addiction and bad habits now fuels the artwork of nightclub owner turned artist Shawn Kolodny. The NYC native and soon-tobe Miami local has a conversation about expectations, transformation and inspiration. words_teddy willson. photo & art_shawn kolodny. design_kelvine moyers.
16 DISTRACTION In the Loop
Kolodny’s favorite project, the Fake Fulfillment Center, debuted at the 2017 Art Basel. The installation focused on society’s addiction to materialism. “I have no preconcieved ideas of how people connect with my work. I hope they enjoy it, and hope it strikes up interesting conversations.”
Distraction: Where were you born and where else have you lived? Shawn: Born and raised in New York City. I have lived there most of my life. For the past two to three years, I have been splitting my time between NYC and Miami. D: Did you ever think you would become an artist? S: I never thought, nor did I have the courage, most of my life, to even think of making art my profession. It never seemed realistic or plausible. I occasionally dreamed about it, but would always second guess myself. Selfdoubt is one of our worst enemies; there was always a little voice in my head that said “can’t” and “don’t” a lot. in life would be? S: I went to school for industrial design. Think sculpture with purpose. It was a mix between art and engineering, with a bit of design. I was very into it – a practical arts career. Though just as I was ready to graduate, before the internet, my portfolio was destroyed. I saw it as a sign to follow a different path, and that was the hospitality industry.
vices ever begin to infiltrate into your own personal life or were you mainly an outsider looking in? S: I drank too much – actually I did a lot of things too much. Lived a very superficial life. I worried too much about what others thought of me, always looking for validation and approval from people who didn’t really care about me. My priorities were all wrong; (laughing) I was living the Instagram life before Instagram.
D: Tell us about your career in hospitality? S: After college, I came home and took a job in my local bar, the Zoo Bar in NYC. My first job was as a barback. I quickly worked my way up – I started acting like the manager, fixing the place up, adding systems. When offered a salary for that job, I told my eventual business partner I wanted to “earn my keep.” I asked for no salary, but instead to be a partner in the business. I was fortunate that the guy I was working for said yes, and that was the beginning of a long hospitality career.
D: Can you tell us about your decision to become an artist? S: I had blown up the last hospitality business I was involved with, and I had a choice of going back to work in the hospitality industry, which I was dreading, or take a chance, and see what it was like to commit to being an artist full time. I wanted to see what it would feel like, if this was a job, not a hobby. Could I fill my days? Could I pay my bills? What does art as a career look and feel like? Perhaps I would hate it once it became a “job.” As it happens, I love it, and wish I made the plunge sooner.
D: Did you enjoy it? How did your attitude change over time? S: It used to be a calling. I would have paid to do it. I truly loved everything about it. Over time, it became a career and a paycheck. The passion subsided and art became my calling.
D: Describe your artwork and what it represents. S: My art plays with the idea of addiction, not to drugs, though that is the visual metaphor, but to the things that have similar feedback loops. As I mentioned, I lived a superficial life and searched for validation through others’ perceived impressions of me, which I felt was achieved via luxury brands, fancy cars and the like. I thought having these things made me feel better, then needed more and more, like a drug.
D: What did you think your path
D: Your bio says that this job placed you amidst “substance, addiction and materialism.” As the owner of these nightclubs, did these
SHAWN KOLODNY Winter 2018 DISTRACTION 17
D: Would you describe your artwork as optimistic or pessimistic; both or neither? S: Both. Like everything in life, it depends on the eye of the beholder. For me, it’s super positive and a touch ironic, especially that I get such intrinsic fulfillment from my worst extrinsic excesses of my past.
SHAWN KOLODNY
D: Your artwork points out a glaring flaw in society. Do you have any ideas about a solution? S: There are a bunch, but our need, mine included, in social media validation (another not so positive addiction) needs to be addressed, though I have no good ideas for a solution. D: What are your thoughts on
generational differences in addiction? S: I think the younger generation is screwed. Social media and the constant comparison to everyone’s perfect “presented and curated lives” is not positive and will be destructive to a lot of kids.
D: What is your favorite exhibition
or piece of art that you have created? S: I created a huge installation last year for Art Basel called the Fake Fulfillment Center. It was well-received, and I was commissioned to make it again inside of the Art Palm Beach fair. It was a 3000-square-foot, immersive installation based on my art. Playing with the idea of addiction and what we are addicted to: tech, social media,
fashion, sex, cars, etc. I created installations that you felt obligated to share, even though the exhibit was making you question that very validation. It was the hardest project I have ever worked on and was one of the most satisfying accomplishments of my art career to date.
D: Would you consider yourself a social activist? S: Not really, but I understand if the work is interpreted that way.
An impressive, yet tiring career in nightlife hospitality left Kolodny hyper-aware of the driving factor behind much of present day society: addiction, namely to vanity. Though his artwork typically reimagines the negative concept of addiction, his interpretation of the word has changed with time. “It originally meant doing something so much that it destroys all other aspects of your life,” he said. “Now I am trying to reframe that narrative and look for positive addictions, that are additive to life.”
D: What do you see happening for you in the foreseeable future? Any exciting projects coming up? S: I’m doing a cool collab with Puma for Art Basel and working on an artist-in-residence space in NYC.
ART MATERIALISM ADDICTION 18 DISTRACTION In the Loop
Seafood O H OKED ON
Living on the coast of the Atlantic means access to some of the nation’s finest seafood. Dine in style and overlook Miami’s best panoramic views, or check out some of the city’s unique fresh fish markets and whip up an elegant dinner for one – here’s hoping your search goes swimmingly! words_maia hunter. photo_gianna sanchez & sonia broman. design_michael haring.
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION 19
Seafood
20 DISTRACTION In the Loop
HEALTH BENEFITS One thing is for sure – seafood is one of the most nutritious sources of protein and omega-3s on the market. A lean, protein-dense fish like tuna weighs in at about 30 grams of protein per 100-gram serving. Fish is also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s can help lower the risk of heart disease, aid in joint health and lower the risk of depression or Alzheimer’s disease.
WHERE TO EAT If you’re searching for a true culinary treat, look no further than the dozens of amazing restaurants – new and old – that Miami has to offer. The South Beach Seafood Festival is a week-long extravaganza held each fall, where many Miami restaurants showcase their seafood specialties with interactive events like thrilling chef showdowns and gorgeous rooftop dinners. When your parents stop in for a weekend visit, head to Joe’s Stone Crab, a local and tourist favorite. Joe’s, which serves up delicious sea fare from October through May, recently opened for its 105th season. Joe’s opened in 1913 and has since become a staple of Miami seafood. In fact, People Food and Zagat named Joe’s the most popular restaurant in all of Florida in its 2017 roundup of the best restaurants in each state. The renowned eatery prominently features its signature stone crab on the menu. “This sustainable fishery ensures that the stone crab body is returned to the water where they will regrow their claws,” Joe’s menu reads. Although the famous stone crab has put Joe’s on the map, the restaurant also has select choices of prime meat and other seafood. Keep in mind that Joe’s is pricier – it’s totally worth it, though, so save this spot for a special occasion. Since the opening of its downtown location in 2009, CVI.CHE 105 has excited Miami’s gastronomic scene with intoxicating Peruvian dishes. Chef Juan Chipoco has crafted close to 20 different ceviches and tiraditos that allow diners to enjoy tender, fresh fish in rich yellow pepper creams and sharp lime and cilantro marinades. Whether dining with a single friend or as part of a large group, one of the best ways to sample different ceviche flavors is by ordering their famous dish, the Tetra de Ceviches. This generous platter is complete with the restaurant’s four most popular ceviches, beginning with a taste of the kitchen’s mildest cream sauce and graduating to a rocoto cream that can make your mouth water. The hip downtown aura makes CVI.CHE 105 the perfect eatery for a night on the town when takeout just won’t cut it.
Peak season for Miami’s famous stone crab spans from Oct. 15 to May 15. Not only are winter months popular for fresh shellfish, but they also inspire a range of unique recipes for warm, seafood-inspired soups and stews.
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HOW TO BUY AND PREPARATION Smell: The scent of your fish should be ever so slightly reminiscent of a sea breeze. If there is any sign of an unpleasant or “fishy” odor, your fish is probably on its last leg – or fin. Firmness: Pay close attention to the firmness. The flesh of your fish should spring back when pressed. If your touch leaves an indent or impression on the fish, it is not fresh.
Color: If you are picking out a white fish, it should be just that – white. Tuna, however, can be tricky. Fresh tuna can vary in color from pink to red. But most tuna you will find on display in sushi bars has probably been treated with carbon monoxide to make it a more visually appealing, watermelon color. This treated tuna is safe to eat, but if you are still confused about which color of the rainbow your tuna should be, let your nose make the final call – fresh tuna should not have an odor at all. Finally, salmon should be a bright red or deep red orange. Also, make sure to pass on a fish with cloudy eyes; this can be a sign of age. Freshness: Fresh shellfish like lobster and crab should be alive when purchased. To check, tap the heel of the shell on a hard surface – the shell should close if it’s still alive. Just like regular fish, shellfish should have a fresh ocean smell. You can check a crustacean’s freshness by touching around the eyes and looking for movement. Shrimp should be a translucent grey or white color when purchased. Frozen: Frozen seafood is a great alternative to fresh if you’re looking for a less expensive option or a species out of season. By using a flash freezing technique, the seafood can stay at peak freshness – without being taken over by ice crystals – until you are ready to enjoy. Your frozen seafood should always be marked with an expiration date, and although you can technically consume frozen seafood for up to three months after purchase, it is best to use it within one. Just a short drive away are a handful of great, local fish markets to find your perfect catch. Fresh Florida Fisheries on 57th Avenue is one popular joint, with a wide array of locally-sourced options, like yellowtail and stone crab and an adjacent patio-style restaurant. Shore to Door Fish Market on Douglas Road in Coconut Grove has many South Florida favorites to offer, as well. Blue Runner Seafood on Biscayne Boulevard is another local hotspot known for its ceviche and smoked salmon. There are plenty of ways to enjoy delicious seafood from your home. Your seafood can be baked, boiled, fried or sautéed; there are endless recipes both online and from traditional cookbooks. Stone crab is usually broiled or steamed and often served with a side of butter. Lobster is prepared similarly and usually served with a lemon butter sauce. Tuna can be cooked in a skillet or served raw in sushi dishes. Yellowtail, often resembling tuna when raw, grills extremely well and can also be used in sushi. Tilapia works well pan-seared and baked. Shrimp, a particularly versatile seafood staple, can be served a variety of ways; popular dishes include shrimp cocktail on the coasts and shrimp and grits in many Southern cities. Mussels and clams cook best when steamed in a hot pot marinating in wine. Octopus cooks well boiled, while calamari tastes best when fried. Whichever way you prepare your meal, cooking seafood is about experimentation. Its versatility allows the chef to give each dish a signature flare.
One of the most popular fish among chefs in Florida, the yellowtail snapper can be prepared in a variety of ways. It is most commonly served raw, however, in sushi and ceviche dishes.
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CATCH OF THE DAY
Seafood
Mussels | Region: All over the world in rivers,
streams and oceans Nutrition: High in the minerals selenium and manganese and vitamins B-12 and C Fact: Mussels are low in mercury, which can be harmful to pregnant women and children in large amounts.
Oysters | Region: Most commonly harvested in
the Atlantic waters from Canada to Argentina and the Pacific waters from Japan to Washington state and as far south as Australia Nutrition: Rich in vitamins C and B-12, loaded with zinc, selenium and iron Fact: Oysters are a proven aphrodisiac.
Clams | Region: The Atlantic Ocean with hotspots in the northeast of the U.S. and along the coast of Florida Nutrition: Good source of iron, omega-3s, vitamin B-12, vitamin A, calcium, selenium and potassium Fact: Quahogs, think Family Guy, are a species of clam.
Shrimp | Region: The Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean near Florida Nutrition: Best source of iodine Fact: Shrimp “dance” to attract fish so they can feed on parasites on the fish’ bodies. White fish | Region: Found in Canada and in northern America, including all of the Great Lakes Nutrition: Great source of phosphorus, niacin and B-12 Fact: White fish can live for 10 to 20 years.
Gather ’round the table! With its rich array of diversity, seafood is the perfect option for large gatherings of family and friends. There’s sure to be something for everyone – even if that something is an octopus tentacle.
Salmon | Region: Originally from the Pacific Ocean, but introduced to areas such as the Great Lakes Nutrition: High in omega-3 fatty acids Fact: Salmon live most of their life in salt water and return to freshwater to spawn.
Lobster | Region: Found in northeastern U.S.
Nutrition: Good source of phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamin B12, copper and selenium Fact: Maine is known for its lobsters.
Crab | Region: Found in all of the world’s oceans Nutrition: Good source of vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, zinc, copper and selenium Fact: Crabs walk and swim sideways.
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION 23
BASES LOADED As fall sports seasons come to a close and the temperature chills to a more palatable 80 degrees, the University of Miami’s baseball team prepares to suit up for the 2019 season. words_abby washer. photo_josh white. design_ elizabeth pozzuoli. The baseball team’s 2017-2018 season ended with a devastating loss to Clemson after an eleven-game winning streak. The team held their last meeting on May 28 to watch the 10-member National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division 1 Baseball Committee announce the 64 teams chosen to participate in the College World Series. The decision to exclude Miami was disappointing but expected by the players and coaching staff, who ended the season with a record of 28-26. Longtime Miami Hurricane baseball coach Jim Morris left the players on a positive note, and his assistant coach, Gino DiMare, took over as head coach with hopes of a successful season ahead. The incoming freshman class is filled with talented players. “We feel very good about our starters and pitching rotation,” said Coach DiMare, hinting at an encouraging start to the season. With 26 freshmen and sophomores on the team, there are high expectations for the underclassmen of the group. This gifted group of rookies lost two of their signees to the MLB draft this
24 DISTRACTION In the Loop
past summer. Corner infielder Triston Casas, was drafted in the first round, as the 26th pick overall, by the Boston Red Sox. Brennen Davis, an outfielder, was drafted in the second round by the Chicago Cubs. Two current freshmen were drafted but honored their commitments to the University of Miami and are playing with the team this season. Pitcher Slade Cecconi was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the 38th round. “He is probably our most highlytouted recruit coming in and is pitching very well so far,” said Coach DiMare, who also noted Cecconi’s academic excellence in high school. Catcher Adrian Del Castillo, a Miami local, was a 36th round pick for the Chicago White Sox, but followed through with his commitment to the Hurricanes as well. “His future is going to be behind the plate in catching,” DiMare said, excited about Castillo’s future with the team. DiMare also highlighted JP Gates, a left-handed pitcher who was ranked No. 145 by the prospect database MLB Pipeline, but ultimately went undrafted. Gates is also a strong hitter, an added bonus for the ‘Canes. These three players are surely rookies to look out for as the season begins. Moving forward with strong talent from their rising sophomores, who now have a year of collegiate experience under their belts, the team is projected to perform extremely well. Gregory Veliz, a right-handed pitcher, and Evan McKendry, the team’s top returning pitcher, are both juniors with significant experience on the mound and are expected to lead the team this season. There are several former Hurricane players who could be heading to Major League Baseball in the near future. Zack
Freddy Zamora, left, is a sophomore shortstop who earned All-American distinction last year in his freshman season at The U. Other Canes earning All-American titles include Isaac Quiñones, catcher, and Daniel Federman, pitcher, both pictured above (top to bottom). Last year was the 25th and final season with Jim Morris as Miami’s head coach, with the team welcoming Coach Gino DiMare this year in his first season with the Canes.
19
’
Collins seems to be the top prospect as one of the most talented hitters to play with the Miami Hurricanes. The 23-year-old was drafted 10th overall in 2016 by the Chicago White Sox and is a catcher for their minor league team, the Arizona White Sox. Some other prospects include pitcher Bryan Garcia, right fielder Willie Abreu and third baseman David Thompson, who each play for minor league organizations affiliated with the Detroit Tigers, the Colorado Rockies and the New York Mets, respectively. If these four men, along with several other former Hurricanes, prove themselves this season, they should be on track to make it to the MLB. As for the most recent graduates of the team, several are thriving in their baseball careers. Back in June, six Hurricane players were selected in the 2018 MLB Draft. A standout, Andrew Cabezas, won Short Season Pitcher of the Year this Sept. for the Minnesota Twins. Frankie Bartow and Michael Mediavilla both had remarkable years on the mound as well, pitching for the Hagerstown Suns and the Colorado Springs Sky Sox, respectively. Romy Gonzalez and Danny Reyes had promising seasons with the Great Falls Voyagers and the Connecticut Tigers. The Miami alumnus Jeb Bargfeldt was drafted by the Detroit Tigers and now plays as a left-handed pitcher. While the players’ talent and potential alone make this season encouraging, one group of students contributes greatly to the success of home games at Alex Rodriguez Park. The Sugarcanes, the official bat and ball girls, work right alongside the Hurricane team all season long. The club has been an integral part of the baseball organization since 1968 – the U celebrated the group’s 50th anniversary last season. The University of Miami was the first college to have bat and ball girls, and many institutions have followed in their footsteps since. The club has around 26 members, with 30 or more new students applying for a spot each year. While prior knowledge of the game is not required when students apply, every member who is lucky enough to get chosen grows a new appreciation for baseball through their participation. Amanda Beyrer, president of the organization, is a junior starting her second year with the Sugarcanes. She
took on an executive board role shortly after joining and is now looking forward to leading the group this season. The Sugarcanes have defined Beyrer’s college career. She explained how surprisingly calm game days are for each member and that the weekend games provide a release from the students’ busy and stressful school schedules. “They are very low pressure,” Beyrer said, recounting the dynamic of each game. “It’s very fun and relaxing, especially after a long week, to be able to run around and enjoy the game.” The group has six girls at each game – two in both the home and away team dugouts and one at each foul ball territory. The members in the foul ball areas take care of stray balls, while the member in charge of the home foul ball area has an extra job: working for the umpire, bringing him new balls and making sure he gets water when necessary. The four members in the dugouts take care of the bats for each team. While each member of the Sugarcanes roots for the Hurricanes and constantly cheers the team on during their games, the two girls who are assigned to the away team are not allowed to cheer for the home team. “That’s a big rule, which is sometimes hard,” Beyrer said, highlighting the Sugarcanes’ passion for the team, which they have to hold back when helping out the other side. She did note the unique opportunity they get to see the environment of the other teams and how they interact with each other. The six girls, who work diligently alongside the players and umpire to make everything run smoothly, also boast the closeness of their group and their bonding experiences at each game. “It’s a very cool experience to be able to be a part of the action,” Beyrer said about the Sugarcanes. “You get to meet and spend time with so many girls you never would have met otherwise.” The Sugarcanes are a role model bat and ball girl group, being the team other colleges and universities reach out to when in the process of starting their own program. They began their 51st season with the team on Oct. 27 during the game against Florida Atlantic University. Donning shiny new apparel and big smiles, the girls are looking forward to expanding their club and cheering on their beloved ’Canes as they serve up some serious plays this season.
The Milkshake Man Along with the ’Canes’ fall exhibition game at Alex Rodriguez Park comes the reopening of the famous Mark Light Shakes, a University of Miami baseball tradition around since 1986. Mitch Freedman, the founder, sold soft serve ice cream for the first year and debuted his now-famous shakes the following season. After over 30 years, he now offers over 40 flavors of shakes, selling several hundred per game – an experience he calls a “labor of love.”
Distraction’s Favorite Flavors Banana Cream Pie Simple Strawberry Cookie Dough Grasshopper Jay-Ro Oreo Key Lime Pie
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION 25
CAN I GET A
HIT?
If you’ve never heard the crackling of a Juul or inhaled the fruity scent of a pod as smoke is blown into your face, then you probably haven’t spent much time on the University of Miami campus. words_olivia ginsberg. photo_kristian del rosario. design_jess morgan. Students whip out their USB-sized devices all over campus, including in classrooms and even in the fitness center. What used to be a small group of students taking a smoke break with traditional cigarettes turned into a mob of millennials puffing away on different flavors of nicotine-filled liquid. Just when America thought it had eradicated cigarettes for good, a new enemy arrived on the scene: the e-cigarette. At a young age, students were warned about the dangers and risks of smoking cigarettes. Cigarettes were on the decline, as we watched people who we viewed as old-fashioned and close-minded blacken their lungs and lower their days with each inhale. Yet, in an instant, that all changed. The new device on the market was “safe.” It was fun and sleek. It had flavors like mango and crème brûlée.
26 DISTRACTION In the Loop
It’s entirely possible that we were played by big tobacco, who just lead us down another path to addiction. When you think about it, it’s kind of genius. Juul made a fifteen-million-dollar company out of tricking the youth with sleek packaging and fruity, fresh flavors. The government, in particular, is alarmed by this trap, of sorts. This year, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) declared the increase in youth nicotine users an epidemic. “We see clear signs that youth use of electronic cigarettes has reached an epidemic proportion,” said FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb in a statement to the press. The FDA also said that although the point of Juul and other similar devices was to help adults quit smoking, it is doing quite the opposite to many children and young adults. The organization has found evidence that e-cigarette companies are targeting kids in their advertisements by giving their flavors names reflective of candy. The FDA announced that it
hopes to stop this epidemic by cracking down on retailers that have been illegally selling Juul products to minors. The University of Miami recently enacted a policy to curb the use of vapes and e-cigarettes. Starting this year, any student seen Juuling on campus can be slapped with a $250 fine. “I think the fine is too much for what it is,” University of Miami sophomore Grace Williams said. “People smoke on campus all the time and nothing happens to them, so why are they targeting Juuling?” Clever marketing has tricked students into believing that Juul products are a safe alternative to get their nicotine fix. However, these tiny devices don’t just contain vapor – they also contain several other ingredients that are classified as irritants, along with a whopping dose of nicotine. “One pod equals twenty cigarettes, which is unsettling,” said UM senior Olivia Mulvey, who chose to stop using her Juul for its nicotine content. Mulvey was dealing with issues of nicotine withdrawals – once she started Juuling, she became dependent upon a constant flow of nicotine. When she realized this and tried to stop, she became plagued with symptoms like headaches, nausea and irritability. Like our parents and grandparents, many of the Juul fiends of our generation swore vehemently that they’d never get hooked. However, just like real cigarettes, these little devices can have you craving more after just one use. Our predecessors puffed away until they were left with horrible diseases, so only time will tell what effects Juuling will have in store for millennials.
“I need to quit, but I can’t stop now,” quips Jessica Smusz, a junior at UM who is admittedly addicted to the USB-sized device. Even after learning one pod is equivalent to a pack of cigarettes, Smusz frequently purchases four-packs of mintflavored Juul pods to fill the void of nicotine withdrawal.
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SPECIAL SECTION
28 DISTRACTION Special Section: Movement
Legs cut through dance studios, divers backflip into choppy water, sports cars zoom on McCarthur causeway and time ticks slowly in the carousel of your Instagram feed. Political refugees move across oceans and borders, and students zip from classrooms to concerts. Our motions mold our every action, illuminating where we are and where we are going. This issue’s Special Section explores movement, both punctured and ongoing.
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MO
D
DECO
words_isabella leroy. photo_sidney sherman. design_michael haring.
Keeping up with the new wave of influences and styles of architectural designs can be dizzying. What’s the difference between modern and contemporary architecture? How do they differ in their historical inspiration and structural characteristics? Understanding artistic movements are key to appreciating Miami’s unique architectural landscape.
30 DISTRACTION Special Section: Movement
The Miami Design District is home to luxury stores like Fendi, Yves Saint Laurent and Dior. However, it’s also the crux of some of Miami’s most innovative architectural creations. These looks were inspired by Miami’s on-the-go residents, who are constantly zooming throughout the city.
Flaunting flat roofs and rectangular compositions, modernism is a rebellious response to the elaborate style of the 19th century. Although modern architecture’s exterior structure is minimal, its interior design enriches the space. Using sleek, balanced designs featuring marble floors, neutral colors and rich, dark wood, modernism introduces simplicity to architecture. Contemporary architecture is a form of construction that draws from modernism and minimalism; it epitomizes a sense of fluidity and sustainability. Asymmetrical elements and metallic surfaces reflect a broad range of colors under sunlight. Although these features distinguish the style from modernism, contemporary architecture is often difficult to discern – it doesn’t capture a specific style or “era.” Since its introduction in the 21st century, contemporary design has become standard across the globe, especially in the United States. From One World Trade Center in New York to the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, contemporary design celebrates conceptual styles that bring wood, plaster and stone to life. An electric city, Miami continues to evolve as world-renowned architects transform our surroundings. Perhaps Miami’s most prominent architectural district, the South Beach Art Deco District is “a regional response to the Bauhaus movement during the post-World War II building boom in Miami Beach,” said Franziska Medina, a Miami Modern tour guide with the Miami Design Preservation League. The Art Deco District introduced an “uplifting style” with elements of bright color, ornately curved surfaces and geometric-shaped walls with multi-patterned designs and tropical, ornamental themes. Hidden within the bustling city, away from the shores of South Beach, is the Miami Design District. The recently developed area aims to encapsulate fashion, dining, architecture and fine art and combine them into one mesmerizing area. The stunning contemporary architecture breathes new life into Miami. “Architecture in Miami is interesting, especially since it’s a relatively new city,” said Rebecca Rudner, a junior studying architecture at UM. “It’s growing, and areas are changing and shifting. Areas like South Beach and Wynwood have seen dramatic changes over the years. It’s really cool that we’re in the heart of it all.” Exploring the Design District, Rudner noticed its use of eco-friendly materials and designs. Since the installments of environmental conservation communities have spread across the world, it’s no surprise that Miami is looking to go green. “Green spaces and conservation is big talk, especially here in Miami” Rudner said. “I think the Design District architecture really helps promote social interactions and social spaces, which in an area like this, should always be a desired goal.” The Palm Court retail complex by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto encapsulates the rising popularity of eco-inspired designs. Its blue glass fins create “crystallized showers of sunlight” fronting the district’s main shopping center. Fujimoto was inspired by Miami’s tropical environment and unpredictable weather. The construction consists of long, thin sections of blue glass attached vertically to the store fronts to resemble rain, with plenty of room for natural sunlight and fresh air. Fujimoto is one of many global architects who has incorporated unique contemporary elements into Miami’s sprawling architectural scene. Alongside eco-friendly features, contemporary architects also use innovative technologies to enhance the structures’ image and sustainability. 3-D modeling, design algorithms and interactive software have all aided in the development of
THE 3 VIRTUES OF GOOD ARCHITECTURE Firmatis (Durability) – It should be robustly constructed and remain in good condition.
contemporary design. Through this dynamic medium, global architects are now able to conceptualize limitless ideas for different environments, adapting to evolving perceptions of the world around them. Miami architects are also embracing biomorphic elements, which are inspired by living organisms and anatomical structures. Biomorphic buildings use natural light and recyclable materials such as limestone, titanium and glass, to create naturally-occurring patterns. The eco-centric design is free-flowing, with diagonal lines and repetitive patterns to express a sense of rhythm from various different angles. The One Thousand Museum, brought to Miami by architect Zaha Hadid, has a concrete-based exoskeleton that snakes around glass facades with an interior consisting of angular walls and curved surfaces. The biomorphic “exoskeleton” structure weaves movement with practicality, illustrating, once more, the rising influence of contemporary architecture throughout the city of Miami.
Marcus Vitruvius was a Roman architect, engineer and author who is famously known for his work De architectura, which translates to the Ten Books of Architecture. This book consisted of various architectural building methods and designs. The Vitruvian Virtues were known as the three main characteristics that should determine the overall standard of good architecture.
Utilitas (Utility) – It should function well for its residents.
Venustatis (Beauty) – It should be appealing to the eye.
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THE
DEEP END University of Miami’s swim and dive teams leave it all on the springboard when competing for the gold. The student athletes on both of these rigorous teams often have one goal in mind – the coveted Olympic games. words_anya balsamides. photo_charles gonzalez. design_ gabby rosenbloom.
Zach Cooper completes dive 5132d, a front one-and-a-half flip with a full twist.
32 DISTRACTION Special Section: Movement
You step onto the board, toes curling beneath the slick metal under your feet. You close your eyes, taking a deep breath. You count “one, two, three,” then bring your arms up to your head as you leap into the air. It’s muscle-memory. You point your toes as they break the surface of the water, your dive complete. Beneath its clear surface you smile – the small, final celebration of a competitive diver, knowing from hours spent perfecting the dive, from days training for this very moment, that it was, in fact, perfect. Swimming and diving are commonly grouped together in the world of competitive sports, but they have very different origins. Competitive diving, which involves leaping into water from either a springboard or a platform while performing flips and twists, was first practiced by gymnasts from Germany and Sweden in the 1700s who wanted to practice their flips with a more comfortable landing space: water. In the late 1800s, Swedish divers began showcasing breathtaking displays throughout Europe, flipping and twisting through the air from impossible heights. With this sudden spark of popularity, competitive diving was introduced into the Olympics in 1904, when American George Sheldon won the gold medal on the men’s 10-meter platform. The U.S. continued to dominate Olympic diving with the help of Pat McCormick and Greg Louganis. However, when China entered competitive diving in the 1984 Olympics, America’s top position was compromised; China continues to perform well in Olympic diving, even to this day. On the other hand, swimming first emerged as a competitive sport in the early 1800s in England when the National Swimming Society constructed man-made indoor pools. With swimming’s booming popularity in England, it quickly found a place in the 1896 Athens Olympic Games. Shortly after its Olympic debut, swimming became a spectacle. The 1972 Summer Olympics were notable for their excellence in competitive swimming. Mark Spitz broke every single record in the history of swimming at that time. After Spitz, swimming did not see a more successful or decorated athlete until Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, with 28 medals. At the University of Miami, dreams of competing in the Olympics are much more than misty hopes wrapped in uncertainty – they’re concrete goals. Renowned coach Randy Ableman has been UM’s head diving coach for the past 30 years. In addition to being named the 2018 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Women’s Diving Coach of the Year and maintaining a nine-time title of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Diving Coach of the Year, Ableman has served on Team USA’s coaching staff for five Olympic Games. Most recently, Ableman coached UM alumnus Sam Dorman in the 2016 Rio Olympics, helping Dorman win a silver medal in the three-meter synchronized dive. “There really is a lot of pressure, because we have some great kids, and it’s my job to make sure that I get them to their potential. It’s up to me to make sure I guide them to not only be best in their sport, but to turn into great young people ready to go out and do special things in the world after they’re done competing,” Ableman said. When junior diver Carolyn Chaney explained why she decided to dive for UM, she said that “the number one reason is our coach, Randy.” She clarified that “he’s known in the diving world as being one of the top coaches.” “The coaches are what stuck out to me the most,” said junior David Dinsmore. Even though Ableman coached over
Zach Cooper completes his dive, ripping the water just as photographer Charles Gonzalez captures the shot with his underwater camera.
20 NCAA diving champions, Dinsmore explained that it goes much deeper than that. “He cares not only about you being a great athlete but a great person as well.” The UM diving program is extremely rigorous. Athletes are required to practice from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and again from 2-4 p.m. each weekday, with weight training from 4-5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Both Chaney and Dinsmore spoke on how difficult it is to balance both school and competitive diving. Yet, at the end of the day, they both say that it’s worth the effort. “The self-accomplishment of you knowing that you put it all out there and did the best that you could is the best feeling in the sport,” said Dinsmore. Dinsmore explained that his favorite dives are twisters, specifically the back twister, which is a two-and-a-half flip, done backwards, with two-and-a-half twists. While Chaney plans to end her diving career after college and pursue medical school, Dinsmore is currently working towards competing in both the upcoming 2020 and 2024 Summer Olympics. The University of Miami’s swim team has also seen its fair share of Olympic events. Tanja Kylliainen, UM’s Assistant Swimming Coach, represented Finland in the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics. The night before her first race, she “went to the Opening Ceremonies and walked around for about five hours.” Then, remembering her first Olympic race, Kylliainen said, “For the first time in my life, I wasn’t nervous.” She went on to win her heat in the main race, placing 25th in both races. Although Olympic success is important, the swim team praises their coaches for their personalized approaches. Sophomore Chandler Sensibaugh decided to swim for UM
Winter 2018 DISTRACTION 33
mainly because of “the atmosphere on the team.” She discussed how it’s incredibly important “having two coaches that really care” in reference to both Tanja Kylliainen and Andy Kershaw. Senior Roxanne Yu agreed, saying that Head Coach Kershaw “treat[s] the girls just like family.” “We like to have a really good personal connection with our swimmers, making sure we’re interested in who they are,” said Tanja Kylliainen, who is in her first year as UM’s Assistant Swim Coach. For this upcoming swim season, Kylliainen hopes UM will move up in the ACC, as it’s a very competitive conference. According to Hurricane Sports, Head Coach Andy Kershaw discussed the importance of building a strong team on a personal level. “I think we’ve worked really hard to build the bond, and they’re driven in all aspects,” he said. For Roxanne Yu, swimming has opened up a new world. “I’m just very thankful for swimming in general,” she said. Born in the Philippines, Yu has been swimming since age five and was able to study in Thailand at age 16 with a swimming scholarship. Then, thanks to swimming, Yu was able to attend the University of Miami. “Without swimming, I wouldn’t be here talking to you,” Yu said. Although Yu has spent the majority of her life swimming competitively, she still encounters occasional roadblocks. She explained how, because swimming is a timed sport, it can be extremely frustrating and disheartening when you continue to work immensely hard, yet your times don’t improve. “But I think that’s the beauty of it,” Yu explained. “You learn how to pick yourself back up. You learn that quality in the water, but you also get to apply it in real life.” Yu competed for the Philippines in the previous two Southeast Asian Games. After college, she plans to swim competitively for one more year and hopes to end her career at the Southeast Asian Games in 2019. With the next Games being hosted in her home country of the Philippines, Yu says, “it will be a great goodbye.”
Diving Groups Dives are classified into six groups. The “armstand” dive only applies to platform dives (where divers jump from a solid surface). The five other groups can be done for both platform dives and springboard dives (where divers jump from a metal board with springs).
1. Forward The diver takes off facing the water and rotates forward and away from the board or platform.
2. Backward The diver takes off with their back to the water and rotates backward, away from the board or platform.
3. Inward The diver takes off with their back to the water and rotates forward, toward the board or platform.
4. Reverse The diver takes off facing the water and rotates backward, toward the board or platform.
5. Twist The diver may incorporate almost any amount of twist into the dive.
6. Arm Stand The dive must begin with a handstand on the edge of the platform.
34 DISTRACTION Special Section: Movement
MIAMI CITY BALLET
In a world dominated by tackles and touchdowns, it is easy to forget about the more graceful sports. Ballet is a sport that takes incredible mental and physical endurance, and the Miami City Ballet is an organization that houses and trains these incredible athletes. words_gabby rosenbloom & isabella vaccaro. photo_sonia broman & sidney sherman. design_teddy willson.
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T
wo sets of stiff and slender limbs emerge from mirthful crimson Christmas boxes, the faces belonging to these limbs dotted with rosy cheeks and ageless expressions. The dolls, their movements robotic and stark, jeté and chassé along the stage, never letting up that, beneath their lacy tutus and makeup, they are human. These dolls are just a few of the players in Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker,” the classic Christmas ballet in which a young girl named Clara embarks on a fantastical Christmas odyssey, with a toy soldier turned prince to show for it in the end. Every year, behind each doll, soldier, fairy or mouse is a human ballet dancer, lengthening and contracting their body parts in order to portray these mythical creatures through dance. Ella Titus, Miami City Ballet (MCB) corps de ballet dancer and doll, to name one of her many roles in MCB’s “The Nutcracker,” uses her dainty frame to her advantage in portraying this particular character. “There isn’t much dancing going on, but I actually get to do one of the two dancing roles,” she says of the iconic first scene of the ballet – the party scene where Clara receives her gifts. “I’m a doll, so I come out of the box in the cutest costume ever and a little mask, but for that I’m very stiff.” Titus, since the age of three, has been trained to tell stories with her body, whether it be Clara and the Mouse King, two star crossed lovers named Romeo and Juliet or even a spectacle of squirming and sexualized insects. “The Cage,” choreographed by award-winning Jerome Robbins, differs immensely from any other ballet performed at MCB. It’s edgy and uncomfortable. Its characters – all female insects – are grotesque and gorgeous at the same time. “We were all completely turned in,” – meaning the dancers’ toes face inward – “doing these crazy movements, like slightly sexual,” Titus said. “It was fun. It was different because we’re basically insects that eat men, so I’d say that movements depend greatly on the story that you’re telling.” In an interview with the New York City Ballet, Robbins spoke about the freedom he had in choreographing such a unique ballet. “I did not have to confine myself to human beings moving in a way we know is human,” he said. “In the way their fingers worked, in the crouch of a body or the thrust of an arm, I could let myself see what I wanted to imagine.” But these outlandish contortions of the body, the contortions that morph tiny dancers like Titus into even tinier bugs, do not come without a few bruises, blisters and breaks. Ballet taxes dancers’ physical well-being, and, as with most sports and artforms, the time dedicated to it is extensive. Titus estimates that she and her fellow dancers spend eight hours in the studio every day during rehearsals, not to mention performances on Fridays and Saturdays as well. The well-known saying “the show must go on” is all but too prevalent in the world of ballet. Tip-toeing around the gaping hallways of Miami City Ballet in fuzzy knit booties to keep her money-making feet warm, Titus has endured injuries to her back, neck, hips and knees and takes great care to protect her instrument – her body.
“I did not have to confine myself to human beings moving in a way we know is human.” MIAMI CITY BALLET
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Both dancers pliĂŠd and engaged their cores before Hilton hoisted Titus above his head. Partner lifts take incredible ab strength on the part of both the man and woman, a rule Hilton has come to know since the age of three when he began training, noting that his parents put him in classes with his older sister because “it was easier to keep both kids in the same place.â€?
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MIAMI CITY BALLET
“The biggest tool any dancer can use to express themselves is the music.”
The emotion between Titus and Hilton is not just acting. The two have been dating for over a year while pursuing their professional ballet careers; ballet is not their only passion, though. Titus says she is “really into fashion” and “loves to knit.” Before joining MCB, Hilton attended Princeton University.
Despite sustaining injuries and even the potential illness, ballerinas will almost never miss a rehearsal or a performance. Miami City Ballet provides physical therapists and massage therapists for their dancers in order to aid in this process. Titus has had her fair share of injuries.“Last year I had a bursa, which is a sack of fluid, and it was on my heel. It was so painful and everything hurt it, but it was right where the elastic of the pointe shoe hit,” she said. “I think that’s the worst thing as a dancer, when you know that you could be dancing better but something so silly as a little sack of fluid can keep you from dancing your best.” And what is harder than jeté-ing through injuries? A ballerina’s technique is never perfected. Ever. Not only must dancers hold an iron-tight core, but onstage they must appear dainty, delicate, and elegant at the same time. The combination takes years, if not an entire career, to master. “The technique is not nailed down. It never is,” Titus said. “I feel like my technique is changing every day; every day I come into work, and I try to think about different things and it’s just never perfect. After performances, you can review your video, and nobody is ever happy entirely with their performance – there are always things that can be better. It’s hard to come in every day and know that you have to change things, but that’s our job.” It is no surprise that being a ballet dancer takes a serious toll on the self-esteem of the dancers. Ballet is work. There is no other way around it. And along with the physical challenges come psychological issues, as well. It’s disheartening for Titus when the people around her, especially her closest friends, forget that being a professional ballerina is, in fact, a full-time job. “I have friends who still forget,” Titus said, shrugging. “In the same conversation they will ask me how ballet is and then I’ll bring up ‘oh I have work this day’ and they’re like ‘oh where do you work’? Where do I work? I work at Miami City Ballet. This is my job. I get paid enough to live in Miami Beach and support myself, so it’s definitely a real job.” Dancing is a job, but most artists say that their chosen artform can be used as a way to express themselves as well. Both Titus and fellow Miami City Ballet dancer, Aaron Hilton, speak to the many ways movement can be a form of expression. “The biggest tool any dancer can use to express themselves is the music,” Hilton said. “The most important thing is to know the music and dance with it.” Exuding poise, power and stamina, ballet is a sport unlike any other. When ballerinas leap and turn across the floor, beauty emanates through the room. There is a common misconception that dance is somehow “less-than” in comparison to more aggressive sports. Actually, ballet requires ample physical and mental strength and an ability to move crowds through movement and elegant athleticism. “We all have our own unique movements as well,” said Titus. “No one dancer is the same. I’ve been told I’m more of a lyrical dancer in a way. Sometimes I get in trouble for being too pretty almost, which works for some things and not others. So it’s a constant battle to be able to express yourself while dancing, while also fitting into the narrative of the story.”
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RANGE OF
M OT I ON Expectations are a funny thing. Parents all around the world who are, well, expecting, make big plans for the lives of the kids they’re about to begin raising. Sometimes, though, things don’t go entirely according to those plans. Excited parents suddenly have to adjust to the shock and confusion of delivering a child who is missing an entire arm or leg. This is called Amelia: the complete absence of the skeletal parts of a limb. words_olivia campbell & noah vesey. design & illustration_olivia ginsberg. Having a birth prevalence of 0.55 in every one thousand births, Amelia is considered to be a medical anomaly. What, then, is driving the overwhelming interest in developing prosthetic technology? A few statistics: nearly two million people live with limb loss in the United States alone, roughly 185,000 amputations take place annually in the U.S. and as of 2009, hospital costs associated with amputation have totaled more than $8.3 billion, according to the Amputee Coalition and the Cardiology Associates of North Mississippi. The majority of these procedures are desperate measures to save patients with vascular diseases, and a large portion of amputees are survivors of severe traumas. A few years ago, losing a limb meant suffering a massive loss of self-identity. All of a sudden, the leg that once carried someone through life had vanished. Luckily, today’s prosthetics are more advanced than ever. Dr. Jorge Bohorquez, a biomedical engineering professor at the University of Miami, is familiar with the liberties they can bestow. “Prosthetics give more independence, a greater quality of life,” said Bohorquez. “They can even augment your skills; [these newly developed prosthetics are] not only used to help you recover, but also really enhance your abilities.”
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Prior to these wonderful advancements in technology, life was markedly more difficult for amputees. The first prosthetic limbs were engineered in Ancient Egypt, fashioned with a combination of metals and wood, and were typically secured with animal hides. In 19th century England, the “Anglesey Leg” was introduced into the world. This prosthesis was crafted from wood and steel and featured a jointed foot controlled by catgut tendons from knee to ankle. These rudimentary contraptions were slow to advance in any technological sense until after the second world war. The National Academy of Sciences launched the Artificial Limb Program in 1945 to address the recent wave of veteran amputees. This project brought about the introduction and continued development of microprocessor-controlled joints. Being more responsive to a person’s unique movement patterns allowed for an increased range of motion and an easier learning curve for the amputee. A similar sense of urgency regarding the advancement of prosthetic technology came following the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. According to the United States’ Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), since 2006, the organization has invested nearly $150 million into research,
dubbed “the Manhattan Project of prosthetics.” Increased funding paired with modern day artificial intelligence has revolutionized prosthetics with roboticscentered functionality at the forefront of advancement. New limb technologies collate data from weight-bearing movements drawn from the residual limb to build algorithms that approximate natural tendencies. These myoelectric additions allow for artificial limbs to respond to electrical signals sent by an amputee’s own muscles. Today’s highly engineered prostheses move closer and closer to replicating the highly dynamic behavior of natural movements, and they are allowing people a chance to live their lives largely uninhibited. Sergeant Noah Galloway lost the lower part of his left arm and most of his left leg in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Today, Galloway stands on one leg and one prosthetic as he travels the country as a fitness expert and motivational speaker. Galloway leverages his challenges to encourage his clients and followers to stop making excuses in the face of adversity. Terrance “Terry” Fox was an athlete who amputated his right leg in a desperate effort to treat his osteogenic sarcoma, a type of bone cancer. After the surgery, Fox was committed to driving change in the world of pediatric oncology and led the Marathon of Hope. Starting at Canada’s eastern coast, he ran 26 miles every day on an engineered prosthetic, raising funds and awareness for cancer research. Fox’s cancer spread to his lungs before he was able to reach the west coast, but his dedication left impressions that long outlived him.
Brenna
Huckaby
His advocacy for child amputees has drastically changed the landscape, as well. Four years ago, Open Bionics launched in Bristol, England and has since equipped children who have lost limbs with a unique sense of strength. They introduced the “Hero Arm,” a 3D-printed multi-grip bionic arm that resembles the arm of a superhero. The Hero Arm returns much of the lost independence to children by making the visible difference of typical prosthetics an obsolete concern. According to the Hub, John’s Hopkins University’s online news platform, researchers are currently exploring the potential of prostheses controlled by the user’s mind. Scientists at JHU have launched a multi-year project called Revolutionizing Prosthetics to expand today’s myoelectric technologies to respond to brain signals. They have set out “to create a neurally-controlled artificial limb that will restore near-natural motor and sensory capability.” “[Prosthetics] will one day be connected to the brain,” Dr. Bohorquez affirms. “They’ll put a chip in the brain. It’s coming quick – quicker than expected.” These developments are rooted in the interest of returning full freedom to amputees and continue to make advancements at an incredible pace.
Professional Paralympic snowboarder Brenna Huckaby lost her leg to osteosarcoma at age 14 and now champions a role both as a professional athlete and role model. Huckaby has been open about having had trouble with her body image as a young teen, but has since come to value all that her body is capable of. Committed to sharing body positivity,
she was invited to walk in the 2018 Miami Swim Week. Huckaby closed the show, meeting a resounding round of applause from the audience as she strut down the runway on her prosthetic leg. She continues to exemplify “mind over matter” and lives as a testament to the quality of life that amputees can maintain with today’s advancements in technology.
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THINK
FAST
Every day, we wake up and decide what we want. Money, power, success and happiness are universal common goals for most, yet striving for them all at once can push people to their limits. words_abby washer. photo_alexis paul. design_anya balsamides. In American society, no one likes to be told how far is too far. There are seemingly no limits to what you can achieve, as long as you are willing to dedicate the time and energy necessary to get there. But we often forget to ask ourselves – how much do we have to sacrifice along the way? According to British psychologist Dr. Richard Wiseman, the overall pace of life has increased by 10 percent worldwide since the early 1990s. To stop or even slow down suggests weakness or the lack of capacity necessary to handle difficult situations. With the rise of advanced technology and social media platforms comes the incessant need for instant gratification and excitement. “When things are in motion around you, the desire to stay
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in connection is perfectly natural,” said Charles S. Carver, a psychology professor at the University of Miami. He believes that while it is possible to check out of the higher-paced aspects of life, there remains a nagging fear that you are leaving out something important. “Society is now dominated by beliefs, attitudes and ways of thinking that elevate the values of impulse, instant gratification and loss of control to first line actions and reactions,” wrote Dr. Stephanie Brown, a Silicon Valley psychologist in an article for the New York Post about the pace of the U.S. Dr. Brown noted that because we can now achieve more of our goals at faster rates due to technology, people seem to believe that spending more time and effort on tasks exposes our
shortcomings. She refers to the need for instant gratification as “speed addiction,” also noting how debilitating the weight of demands can be. Today, mental health issues are being thrust into the spotlight, as the drastic increase in the number of people taking anti-anxiety and antidepressant medication has shined a new light on clinical pharmacology. While millennials can’t imagine a world without social media, email and text messages, the lives of older generations began in a much slowerpaced environment. Decades ago, the way people received information was very different. People read long articles in newspapers, lined up at payphones to make calls and sent hand-written letters to each other. Now, we get three-line news alerts on our phones, communicate with each other in a matter of seconds and place a palpable dependence on quickness. Thirty years ago, people would leave their work at the office, but no longer. Expectations have soared as clients request immediate attention at times of the day when, years ago, most people would have been unreachable.
ADHD
BY THE NUMBERS
40%
1:9
6.4
INCREASE BETWEEN 2003 AND 2011
RATIO OF CHILDREN DIAGNOSED
MILLION PEOPLE DIAGNOSED WORLDWIDE
2X
AS LIKELY TO DEVELOP ADHD SYMPTOMS IF YOU ARE A FREQUENT SOCIAL MEDIA USER
According to a USC Annenberg study, the average American spends about 24 hours per week online. Even when we’re on the go, we are attached to our smartphones despite the busy chaos surrounding us. Students are constantly rushing from one activity to the next, and commonly take the pedestrian bridge bordering UM and peering down onto U.S. 1 to get wherever they are heading next.
Despite the added pressure of a faster-paced life, some people seem to be responding to the change constructively. The Apple Watch Series 3 was released in 2017 with the new addition of LTE cellular connectivity, which allows people to leave their phones at home. The watch gives consumers the ability to monitor and restrict their notifications, providing a way to fight back against society’s need for 24/7 connection. Some countries have tried to avoid falling into this technology-fueled cycle, but France has taken on the challenge head first. Noting the growing availability of people outside typical work hours, the country wanted to redefine the line between professional and personal life, creating the “right to disconnect” in 2017. To achieve this, France established a new legal provision requiring most companies to set specific “work hours,” outside of which employees were not expected to respond to co-workers or clients. Millions of Americans struggle to power down their “work mode” mentality and enjoy their time off. As human beings, our fear of missing out can sometimes overpower our physical
and psychological needs to take breaks. Many people begin to worry if they aren’t receiving calls from clients while they’re away from the office. We often fear that we will be replaced if things can be done successfully without us. Dr. Jeanette Bicknell, a Torontobased philosophy scholar, believes that keeping yourself occupied on a daily basis can be linked to greater levels of satisfaction in life. “Among individuals in a society, busyness – or the feeling of busyness – seems to be an important factor in wellbeing,” said Bicknell in a blog post from the science magazine Nautil. Many young adults find themselves taking on more than they can handle while also trying to balance school, work and their personal lives – University of Miami students, in particular, have found methods of sacrificing some things in order to make time for others. “I have learned to prioritize what is important to me and how to manage my time accordingly,” said Stephanie Nakash, a junior at the University of Miami majoring in sports administration. Nakash
emphasized the significance of time and stress management. While she acknowledged the potential risks of the cycle of constant motion, she also enjoys reaping its benefits. “It makes me appreciate the little moments in life,” Nakash said, noting how her hard work during the week allows her to enjoy any free time she does have on the weekends. Amanda Lambert, a first-year graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Education at the University of Miami, emphasizes time management. “Being able to accept that you might need to let some things go is really important, especially in college when everyone wants to be involved in everything,” Lambert said. Technological advances opened life up to opportunities we never would have thought possible years ago. Travel, work and even shopping experiences have forever been transformed by the Internet and the vast array of media available right at our fingertips. It can be easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of life, but it is important to break away every once and a while. Unplug, disconnect, breathe and enjoy this moment while it lasts.
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HIGH SP D RACE words_thomas guyton. photo_ sonia broman. design_marissa vonesh.
Miami is notorious for flashy, expensive cars along U.S. 1, but also among the race track. Formula One racing was a fan favorite among Miami natives as a professional sport for many years. Racing enthusiasts should be excited to hear that racing will make a comeback in the area with the first Formula One Miami Grand Prix said to debut in 2020.
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The 1980s in Miami – a time fraught with violence, crime and cocaine cowboys running amuck – also brought with it a new and exhilarating source of entertainment for Miamians: high speed racing. Considering all the stop-and-go traffic in Miami, it’s hard to envision a time when Porsche 962s raced on Biscayne Boulevard at 210 mph. In 1983, the late Ralph Sanchez, founder of Major Speedway, brought the Grand Prix of Miami to the Beach and, consequently, entire sections of Miami Beach were set aside for the races. After the inaugural year was rained out after 27 laps, the 1984 International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) Car Racing Series continued the prix, and it proved to be much more successful for both spectators and the sport. The Grand Prix of Miami began with Sanchez’ promotions and ran off and on from 1983- 2012 under different racing classes: IMSA, Trans Am, American Le Mans and the Grand Am. Sanchez has been known throughout South Florida as the godfather of racing. The three-kilometer circuit around Bayfront Park and Biscayne Boulevard hosted the race for a few more years until 1985 when it was moved to Bicentennial Park with a concourse culminating at the Port of Miami. This tradition continued until 1993, when the IMSA series became stale. Enter the Trans Am racing series, which was shut down after a year for the Miami Heat’s new stadium at the time, the American Airlines Arena. The Grand Am Racing Series, in just five short years, proved to be much more successful with a permanent venue at the famous Homestead-Miami Speedway. Established in 1995, the Homestead venue has been integral to the Miami racing scene, hosting the Grand Am Racing Series from 1998 to 2012. Although the series was discontinued in 2013, the Homestead-Miami
Speedway continues to host races to this day and has become synonymous with NASCAR, the Verizon IndyCar Series, the WeatherTech Sports Car Championship Series and the Championship Cup Series. The art-deco purple, silver and aqua aesthetic sets the stage every year for the final races of NASCAR’s three series: the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, the Xfinity Series and the Camping World Truck Series. Considering the prominence of these events, many within the racing world deem Homestead-Miami Speedway founder Ralph Sanchez’ $70 million investment a success. However, Dennis Dobkin, Coral Gables local and an IMSA automobile racer for more than 40 years, has immersed himself in a lifestyle since the 1950s and 60s revolving almost entirely around racing. Race car driver and Miami Native Dennis Dobkin fondly recalled his transition from driving go-karts at 15 years old at Michel’s Kartway, “which is now long gone,” to racing his first cars when he was only 19. Dobkin was involved in the world of car racing from the start. Beginning his career as a builder for Miami racer John Gunn, Dennis’s first interaction with the Grand Prix of Miami was shaky at best. In preparation for the Grand Prix, Gunn accidentally totaled Dobkin’s newlybuilt ride at the Miami Hollywood Speedway. Two weeks later, the race itself was red-flagged after 27 laps due to a severe thunderstorm. “I essentially didn’t sleep for two weeks,” Dobkin said. “I was so tired that I had people come up and tell me that I looked like a zombie.” Dobkin has predominantly raced formula sports cars throughout his lifetime, with the occasional Trans Am, BMWs or Porsche included in the lineup. His first car, however, was his father’s final race car. Sheldon Dobkin, Dennis Dobkin’s father, was very influential not only in his son’s life but in the world of car racing as well. “I just wanted to be as good as him,” Dennis said. “To be as good as him, I’d be happy.” Dennis’s fondness and appreciation for his father was evident in the tone of his voice. “He was known to be a really fast driver, very respected and won lots of races and championships.” Dennis also has a soft spot for the Sebring International Raceway, which was converted into a race course from an old B-17 Air Force base circa WWII.
“
I was so tired that I had people come up to me and tell me that I looked like a zombie.
The course saw its first race on New Year’s Eve of 1950, bringing some thirty sports cars to the race. Ever since, Sebring has proved a sacred ground in the racing community, boasting a legendary past for endurance racing spanning nearly seventy years. Specifically, Sebring holds a special significance in the Dobkin family. Dennis has raced there since the 1970s and, prior to his own career, his father raced there throughout the ’50s into the early ’80s. All of Dennis’s most important races and achievements, from placing first for the very first time to completing his fastest qualifying run, happened at Sebring. Despite these achievements, it might be surprising to learn that Dennis’s would not be considered a “professional” racer. However, Dennis notes that he maintains a racing career and is active in the racing community. He and many others race through the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA); founded in the 1944, it is the oldest racing club in America. This club is mostly comprised of family and friend racers – not so much your Team Penske and large, corporate teams. For the past thirty years, Dennis’s association with SCCA and club racing in general has allowed him to live in Lake Placid, a small, 2,414-person town adjacent to Sebring, while working as a pilot for American Airlines. Reflecting upon the state of racing today, Dennis notes that the sport has become notably more professional but also extremely expensive for the majority of builders and racers. He points out that money seems to be the nature of not only his favorite sport, but most professional sports. Hundreds of thousands of dollars are being poured into racing this year alone in order to help machines race in circles at hundreds of miles per hour. However, some exciting news lies ahead for Formula One fans. “In the last few months we have worked diligently alongside our promoter Stephen Ross of RSE Ventures, the City of Miami and Miami Dade County to realize our ambition to bring a Formula One Grand Prix to Miami, and we have made significant progress,” said Sean Bratches, the Managing Director of Commercial Operations for Formula One. However, the negotiations have presented certain challenges. “Whilst our preference would have been to race in Miami in
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2019, there was always a point by which delivering the best possible wheel-to-wheel racing experience for our fans, drivers and teams wouldn’t be possible in the time available,” Bratches continued. “We have decided, in consultation with the Miami authorities, to postpone sign-off until later in the summer, with the aim of running the first Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix in the 2020 season.” Although big-money international racing certainly creates excitement through its various endorsements and advertisements, the father-and-son build-and-drive racing club scene appears to be dwindling. Dennis Dobkin no longer lives in Miami, due to a growing rise-andgrind atmosphere, citing the hustle and stress associated with Miami as a couple of the main drivers for his departure. Regardless, the unique thrill of the sport will remain timeless. Despite the constant evolution of the city and its population, people will continue to race, and others will continue to watch. The feeling of butterflies in your stomach when U.S. 1 is empty, when you slam the gas to the floor and don’t let up – that’s what these racers crave. Although there has been a long and turbulent history of car racing in Miami, the city itself refuses to slow down. It seems as though there’s still hope auto racing and Formula One are rounding the corner and picking up speed, and they’re heading straight for Miami.
HIGH SP D RACE
CAMPUSWHIPS JACOB WISE model: 2017 Mercedes Benz C-63S AMG horsepower: 507 torque: 516 ft. lbs. speed: 0-60 in 3.8 sec.
JARRED DAHLERBRUCH model: 2017 Subaru WRX A WD horsepower: 268 torque: 260 ft. lbs. speed: 0-60 in 5.4 sec.
DANIEL NEMI model: 2015 Ford Mustang horsepower: 435 torque: 400 ft. lbs. speed: 0-60 in 4.8 sec.
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If you look down at Miami’s coastline from an airplane window, the blue-green water is speckled with foamy white caps that comb the sand in soft breaths. As the tides ebb and flow and the waves purr on the shore, it’s difficult to imagine this serenity causing chaos. But as sea levels rise due to climate change, Miami could become an underwater city, swallowed by ocean water and boiled in its swelter. words_angelica manos. photo_alexis paul. design_joey haas.
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As sea levels continue to rise at exceptional rates, the conversation remains increasingly politicized as actionable measures halt at a standstill. For those living in Miami, however, rising sea levels are a frightening reality – one that we must face before it’s too late. The conversation surrounding increasing sea levels begins with our planet’s changing climate. While some consider only temperature increases to fit into the definition of “climate change,” NASA paints climate change with a much broader brush, defining the phenomenon as “a change in the usual weather found in a place.” This could include a change in how much rain a place usually gets in a year or a change in any given region’s usual temperature for a month or season. University of Miami graduate student Patricia Albano, who is studying Marine Ecosystems and Society, believes that as students in a city where climate change affects our daily lives, it’s important to know how we can help our environment. “Growing up in South Florida, I have witnessed firsthand the effects of climate change on this coastal region,” Albano said. “Even within my lifetime, global temperature has increased about 0.5 degrees Celsius from annual average. This may seem like a small number, but it makes a big impact over time.” Doctor Kenneth Broad, a professor at the University of Miami who studies the relationship between humans and their environments, believes that “separating humans and nature into different categories masks our interdependence.” Explaining further humans’ role in worsening the relationship between nature and earth’s inhabitants, Broad continued, “while we may make some aspects of our environment worse by our subjective standards – perhaps, merely by our existence, we are part of nature, and thus must be willing to adapt, if for no other reason than pure selfishness, if we want to sustain ourselves. The challenge of climate change is certainly the 1000-pound gorilla in terms of global impacts on human and non-human species.” Contrary, perhaps, to popular narrative, climate change carries much more weight than just a warmer winter or a little extra rain. The long-term effects on our planet can range from the melting of the poles and rising sea levels to small changes
The Miami skyline is perhaps most striking just before sunrise, when the light from the sun bounces its rays across Miami’s high rises. We recommend Key Biscayne’s Rusty Pelican for some of the best views in Miami. Unfortunately, some studies estimate that at least one fifth of Miami could be underwater as soon as 2045.
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in our delicate ecosystems that can eventually lead to mass extinctions. Earth’s oceans have already absorbed 80 percent of the heat added to the Earth’s system by climate change, according to the nonprofit environmental organization Conservation International. These warmer temperatures in the ocean have an extremely damaging impact on underwater ecosystems, specifically coral reefs. Conservation International has noted that these heightened temperatures have begun to force certain species to migrate before their natural time. According to the National Environmental Education Foundation, whales have begun to migrate to places like the Arctic “to feed on krill in the summer, and salmon have migrated to specific ocean regions for seasonal nutrients,” since usual sources of nutrients have decayed. Disruptions such as these can lead to a drastic change in “predator-prey relationships, and can increase mass strandings, starvation and poor reproductive success.” As water gets warmer, according to Conservation International, it expands, causing Polar ice to melt and sea levels to rise. Not only do rising sea levels impact ocean life, but they also have a detrimental impact on our own lives. “Although only two percent of the world’s land lies at or below 10 meters of elevation, these areas contain 10 percent of the world’s human population – 634 million people – that are directly threatened by sea level rise.” Furthermore, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), “almost 40 percent of the population lives in relatively high-population-density coastal areas.” Although the sea level globally may have been on the rise over the past decade, the rate of this phenomenon has rapidly increased in the last few years. According to the NOAA’s Ocean Service, “in 2014, global
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The threat of rising sea levels puts the entirety of Miami at high risk.
”
sea level was 2.6 inches above the 1993 average – the highest annual average in the satellite record.” So what exactly do higher sea levels mean? For one, this means an extreme increase in “deadly and destructive storm surges, and much more frequent nuisance flooding.” Miami has begun to take precaution from the threat of its own ocean. The city has begun to take massive flood-control measures, recently “installing pumps, raising roads and restoring wetlands,” according to Business Insider. The city of Miami recently “voted yes” for a 400-milliondollar obligation bond, known as the Miami Forever bond, to help create a “resilient future” for the city. The Miami Forever website explains that “in Florida, just four inches of sea level rise have increased flooding by 400 percent in the last 10 years.” The Miami Forever bond is defined as a “general obligation that will pay for projects to protect homes and property from sea level rise flooding and increase affordable housing.” This bond will allow 192 million of the 400 million dollars to be dedicated solely to preventing flooding by building seawalls to help protect the city of Miami and its surrounding neighborhoods. Doctor David Letson, a professor in the Department of Marine Ecosystems and Society at the University of Miami, explained that Miami is a low-lying coastal community built on limestone, and therefore, it is uniquely susceptible to sea level rise. With a deep sigh followed by a short laugh, Letson explained his personal uneasiness surrounding the rising sea levels. “I myself own property on Key Biscayne,” he noted. “So of course, I’m very concerned and am always keeping an eye out.” Though the topic of climate change is widely controversial in today’s political arena, arming the population with current and comprehensive data is imperative for climate scientists, regardless of any political views their audience may hold. An article released by U.S. News and World Report in May 2018 found that in a span of only seven months under the Trump administration, the percentage of voters who accepted climate science rose by 14 points, with five of those points coming from self-proclaimed conservative Republicans. However, in the study done for the article, surveyors
noted that the term “global warming,” although it technically holds the same definition as “climate change,” created more political controversy and backlash among the public. In their responses, people were more likely to say that they believed “climate change” was real, rather than “global warming.” Taking accountability for man-made destruction is an integral step forward in the movement to fighting a change whose pace is exponentially increasing. “I think being aware of global warming and making a conscious effort to take care of our environment would be the most effective way to help with climate change,” said Nathalie Moreau, a University of Miami graduate student and Florida native, discussing students’ potential for a collective impact. “Spreading the word would also help create massive change on a global level.” “Human-induced impacts on the environment include everything from excessive carbon dioxide emissions to nutrient runoff to the burning of fossil fuels,” Albano said. “These factors add up over time and have contributed to climate change as we know it today. Some of the best ways to combat climate change are by decreasing reliance on gasolinepowered transportation, reduction of meat consumption and making smart choices about the products you buy and where they are sourced from.” The burden, Albano notes, is not simply a problem for lawmakers and global leaders to solve; this problem rests squarely on the shoulders of each and every individual. “As members of the global community, we do not get to give up on this daunting task just because it will not be easy to overcome,” she emphasized. “By changing our lifestyles and mindsets, we can work towards prioritizing our environment’s health and sustainability.” Changing simple habits that negatively affect the environment could help lead to a massive change. Small changes such as recycling, biking and line drying clothes to reserve fossil fuels can make all the difference. However, in order to make a substantial difference, our community must first understand the impact each of us has on the environment. Rising sea levels are just the beginning when it comes to the impending problem of climate change. We have to think bigger than just saving our city – we have to save our world.
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MOTION PICTURES Movies have an unspeakable power. They can also inspire us, whether creatively or constructively. Throughout history, movies have sparked minority movements and paved the way for great change. Film is constantly evolving, and its power to push progress is only growing. words_jillian paraiso. design_michael haring. illustration_sophie robbins.
Focus your attention on the mammoth black widescreen, and recline into the plush velvet cushions. You come to the theater for a story, to lose yourself in a nine-dollar adventure of your choosing. These journeys – filled with life lessons and stories of existence – make and change history. Today in Hollywood, film is focusing on inclusivity – an effort that strikes a chord with younger audiences. Movies that celebrated ethnic diversity and commented on racial discrimination, such as “Get Out” and “Black Panther,” thrived in comparison to their box-office counterparts. Actors and directors are using their influence to inspire minorities to partake in the industry’s push for social change. When Jordan Peele, director of “Get Out,” became the first African American to win an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay Writer, he used his acceptance speech to provide hope for minorities in cinema. “I almost never became a director because there was such a shortage of role models,” Peele said. “I am so proud to be a part of a time that’s the beginning of a movement, where I feel like the best films of every genre are being brought to me by my fellow black directors.” Peele’s climb to success was burdened by the lack of diversity in the industry. “Across 1,223 directors over 11 years, only 4.3 percent were female, 5.2 percent were Black or African American and 3.1 percent were Asian or Asian American,” according to the Los Angeles Times. This stark contrast is partly responsible for – and equally the result of – misrepresentation in the film industry. Film industries tend to craft storylines that will prove to be the most profitable. In terms of production, this often means choosing the most commercially-effective leading actor or actress.
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This practice has faded, however, as social conversations shift. As the demand for equal and accurate representation increases, the film industry has gradually accommodated pleas for inclusivity. “Fences” was a film depicting the life of an African American garbage collector, Troy Maxson, set in 1950s Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The film, a cinematic version of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, depicts the struggles of a blue-collar family struggling with familial responsibility and conflict with the law, as well as infidelity. Actress Viola Davis received the 2017 Oscar for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her emotional portrayal of Troy’s wife, Rose. Taking advantage of this platform, Davis delivered a tear-jerking acceptance speech discussing her unique experiences as an artist. “I say exhume those bodies,” Davis said. “Exhume those stories. The stories of the people who dreamed big, and never saw those dreams to fruition. People who fell in love and lost. I became an artist and thank God I did because we are the only profession that celebrates what it means to live a life.” With this Academy Award under her belt, Davis assumed the incredible position as the first African American to win an Emmy, a Tony and an Academy Award, which the
industry dubs the “Triple Crown of Acting.” Standing atop the Academy Awards’ platform, demanding that the industry, the media and the audience members allow the stories of those buried to be celebrated, Davis urges for fair representation. “Trevor,” a 1994 coming-of-age short film, centers around a Serbian boy who is conflicted about his homosexuality and contemplates suicide. This film exposes the cruelties against homosexual youths and won the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film. Trevor’s popularity allowed producer Peggy Rajski to introduce the idea of the 24-hour hotline for LGBTQ youth, known as the Trevor Lifeline. The Trevor Project has expanded to TrevorChat, TrevorSpace and Trevor Education Workshops, which hundreds of thousands of youths in need have used over the last twenty years. As the film industry embarks on the beginnings of social change, a new layer of human experience is unearthed. As America’s past unfolds and minority rights expand, we are introduced to the different human experiences of those who lived in the margins for generations. The 2008 film “Milk,” starring renowned actor Sean Penn, gave rise to outrage regarding discrimination against homosexuals. The film centers around the life of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. In the film, Harvey Milk takes great strides against LGBTQ discrimination. “Milk” ends with Harvey Milk’s assassination – the message spurred an audience-wide transition to alleviate cruelties against the LGBTQ community at the time of its
SOCIAL CHANGE
release. The film also sparked discussion amongst various state legislatures regarding LGBTQ rights. However, “Milk” also parallels social change’s typical rise-and-fall pattern; the controversial film ignited activism and awareness immediately following its release, but overtime, that activism dwindled and the story was forgotten by most. “[Filmmaking] must start with a sustainable approach,” said Ezra Remer, a University of Miami junior and film student who plans to pursue a career in documentary productions. “Our country is still rectifying its mistakes. Hollywood is a gatekeeper, as an audience, as workers for film production, everyone has the idea that ‘it’s not me, it’s someone else in charge,’ and it is a logical fallacy. “We must practice small-scale change in order to produce a broader change,” Remer continued. “As every filmmaker, writer, director, audio technician, etc., it is our personal obligation to be aware of how film continually affects social change and is affected by the world today.” The film industry works to portray the desires of the audience – the films that make the most impact are the stories people want to embrace. As human representation expands and we allow it to positively mold our perceptions, we are able to create and foster a medium that accomplishes something positive. Movies have the ability to be much more than just kick-back moving pictures depicting scenes of comedy and romance. Films can be invincible instruments of social revolution against the world’s current injustices. They can be a catalyst for social transformation, a beacon for victims affected by history’s cruelest moments or simply a call to action, allowing the stories of the voiceless to finally be heard.
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#OSCARSOWHITE A 2016 phenomenon – based upon the complete lack of diversity amongst the best lead and supporting actors nominations – induced a formidable ripple amongst audiences world-wide. The year of 2016 featured many renowned films, such as “Straight Outta Compton,” with an abundance of lead minority cast members, yet the Academy Award nominations featured a strikingly low number of minority actors, directors and screenwriters. Thus, the #OscarsSoWhite movement was created and reflected across global media for weeks following the awards. This backlash stemmed from the fact that all twenty nomination spots for lead and supporting actors were filled with white actors, along with the Academy Awards’ history of lacking diversity; only fourteen African Americans had won Oscars since the first show in 1929. An uproar began. Numerous directors and actors alike, such as Spike Lee, George Clooney and Lupita Nyong’o, publicly boycotted the event.
Despite the aggravation and publicized conflict that the Academy Awards produced amongst both actors and audience members, the awards industry displayed an incredible shift the following year in 2017. This included the wide range of best supporting actress nominations among minorities. Refinery29 stated, “Hidden Figures’ Octavia Spencer, nominated for best supporting actress, could have become the first black woman to win multiple Oscars. Ava DuVernay could have broken ground as the first black female director to win best documentary for her film, “13th,” about America’s incarceration epidemic. “Likewise, if they would have won, “Manchester by the Sea” producer Kimberly Steward and film editor Joi McMillon of “Moonlight” would have been the first black woman to win in the best picture and film editing categories, respectively. Sound editing could have seen its first female Asian winner had Ai-Ling Lee of “La La Land” taken home the prize.” This strength in numbers provides inspiration. This alteration of how the Academy system chooses to celebrate art and the portrayal of life depicts the change that we as people can promote. The film industry and the people within it, such as directors, producers and actors, can spur a social movement, but it is ultimately up to everyday people to protect its integrity, maintain its stability and advocate for more films featuring minority representation.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Genuine and free-spirited, Health and Wellness gives a wholesome take on physical, mental and spiritual restoration. Living by the mantra “my body is a temple� can just as easily done as it is said with the wisdom that Health and Wellness has to offer.
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LIFT LIKE A
At a school where cardio reigns supreme, the number of girls pumping iron has grown as women embraced a strong and healthy body ideal. Still afraid to try the weights section at the gym? You’re not alone. We’re willing to bet that challenging social norms is the hardest part of your workout.
GIRL
words_olivia baker. photo_sydney burnett. design_kelvine moyers.
Historically, lifting weights meant “bulking up” – an intimidating concept for many women hitting the gym to work towards a slimmer figure. Weight lifting was also considered “masculine” for a long period of time, discouraging many women from giving it a try. Asia Taylor, a senior at the University of Miami, has been lifting weights consistently ever since her track and field career in high school. “Do it!” Taylor encourages other girls who might feel intimidated giving weight lifting a try. “As you gain strength, you gain confidence as well. It teaches you how to remain disciplined and focused on a goal even when times get tough.” Traditionally, times have been tough for women who lift. For generations, societal pressures have made it difficult for women to have a holistic outlook on health. Contrary to historical belief, weight lifting allows women to lose body fat by increasing metabolism while simultaneously building lean muscle mass. Since more calories are burned per workout, beginning weight lifters are often happy to discover that they don’t have to
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restrict their diets. Weight lifting doesn’t have to be just deadlifts and squats. For women easing into it, free weight exercises offer a more flexible and less intimidating approach to the sport. Women’s Health magazine suggests moves like single arm rows, an exercise where you lean over, neutralizing your back before driving your arm backwards, and the seated shoulder press, raising your arms up from a 90-degree angle to improve range of motion. Beyond the mat, social stigmas surrounding weight lifting broach other obstacles for ladies who lift. Women and gender studies professor Claire Oueslati-Porter argues that our societal discomfort with women whose strength rival men’s is still prevalent, even in a more accepting society. This translates to other obstacles in the process of muscle building, like discomfort with going to primarily “male” spaces in the gym. This makes the act of getting stronger even more challenging. In a culture trending markedly towards holistic wellness and body positivity, female weight lifting has gained increasing popularity, especially at UM, in recent years. Although weight lifting is often male-dominated, women are sculpting and toning their way into a more equal partnership in
the gym as well as in the classroom. Social media platforms like Instagram have also been important in the development of a healthier female body ideal. Across the explore feed, weight lifting influencers of all shapes and sizes teach women worldwide how to maintain healthy eating habits and learn new weight lifting techniques. The weight lifting wave has helped foster a healthier generation of women who are proud of their bodies at all sizes. Additionally, weight lifting can be incredibly beneficial for mental health.
“It really depends on where your mental weaknesses come from,” said fitness guru and social media influencer Ruby Taylor. “Personally, it relieves anxiety because it’s a very healthy stress relief.” Overall, weight lifting plays a key role in enhancing your mood, reducing stress and anxiety and creating a healthy and happy body. Weight lifting no longer means bulky biceps; these ladies are lifting up the female body ideal one rep at a time.
COMMON MISTAKES For those lady bosses who want to have better technique in the gym, here are a few common mistakes to avoid when weightlifting, provided by weightlifting specialist Ruby Taylor.
1
Ego Lifting Ego lifting is when someone lifts weight that is too heavy for them, and they end up using other muscles than intended, compromising form. If you drop the weight, you will isolate the intended muscles and can go deeper into the movement, which will result in less injury and more muscle gain.
2 3
STRONG
4
Not Holding Your Core Tight
If you don’t hold your core tight in your movements (this often can happen when you lift weight that is too heavy), you will often arch your back, which can result in back pain and injury.
Doing Reps too Fast Instead of doing a ton of fast reps, try doing negatives: an exercise in which you bring the weight up and down slowly to work the muscles harder and in a different way.
Lack of a Neutral Spine A lot of people make this mistake when they squat and deadlift, because they want to look at themselves in the mirror while they exercise. Oftentimes when you look in the mirror, you crane your neck, arching your back as a result. Instead, make sure to look a couple feet in front of you.
Building muscle with free weights, model Tatiana Ziff shows strength in the female body. She crushes the stereotypes of women weight lifting by incorporating dumbbells into all her workout routines. All over the world, empowered women are blurring the gender divide in the weight room.
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TAKE YOUR
VITAMINS The vitamin industry touches every generation of humans with the promise that these tiny capsules will improve our health, but with the lack of FDA regulation over vitamin companies and the slew of options out there, how do we decide which vitmains to take? words_isabella vaccaro. photo_noah vesey. design_kelvine moyers.
Turmeric, the vitamin featured in this shoot, is rapidly becoming one of the most popular supplements on the market. Often used in Asian food, turmeric is an ingredient in a number of dishes incorporating curry. “Sometimes I try taking turmeric instead of Advil for headaches, because it’s an antiinflammatory,” says Lydia Mahan, a freshman at the University of Miami.
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As children, taking your vitamins was as simple as brushing your teeth. A shiny bottle of squishy, candycolored supplements sat on the kitchen table, with gummies resembling cartoon characters like Scooby Doo and Fred Flintstone more than they resembled actual medicine. Vitamins were a playful afterthought, ready for kids to munch on each morning before whisking off to school. It was almost fun. As adults, it can be daunting to roam down the seemingly endless aisle of vitamins at Whole Foods – a confusing rainbow of expertly-marketed bottles containing who-knows-what inside. According to Harvard Health Publishing, almost half of adults take vitamins, otherwise known as “dietary supplements,” on a daily basis. And though half of the population also pops a handful of pharmaceuticals with their coffee each morning, choosing which vitamins to take and who to buy them from can be more of a chore. Unlike their pharmaceutical nemesis, vitamins are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means, thanks to the 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act, that vitamin manufacturers can sell capsules without proof that they actually work the way they are supposed to or contain the ingredients they claim to contain. But there’s no need to fret – vitamin deregulation just means that consumers need to keep a keen eye on the label when choosing companies from which to buy their supplements. “I work for a very different kind of company,” said Nina Stout, the Northeast Sales representative at Xymogen, an Orlandobased nutraceutical company. “I can feel good knowing that my products are so clean, but there’s a lot of stuff out there that a lot of people take that is probably doing more harm than good.” Xymogen, a family-owned company that produces innovative and top-quality supplements, sells solely to licensed physicians, who then work side-by-side with patients to recommend the correct protocol for each individual case. So why should these professionals, who can include chiropractors, mental health practitioners or even medical
doctors, trust Xymogen or any supplement company? Stout says that “it’s up to each company to regulate themselves,” and there are dozens of certifications out there that verify the safety and effectiveness of these vitamins. “We have the cGMP [current Good Manufacturing Practice certification], and Xymogen also has the certification for the National Sanitation Foundation [NSF], so that’s another certifying body,” Stout added. “They have certain stipulations of how raw materials should be and how things should be done when handling allergens and things like that.” And thanks to our friends down under, a certification from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia has surfaced as yet another third-party supplement regulator. Kind of like the Grammy of vitamin certifications, the TGA’s requirements regarding manufacturing practices and overall supplement quality are stricter than even the FDA’s standards. Xymogen received TGA’s certification only after two years of rigorous work on their products. The FDA may not be knocking down supplement manufacturers’ doors demanding good practice, but there are certainly methods to ensure your vitamins are actually improving your health. But to be sure, Stout encourages, “working with a practitioner who is educated – someone who can do some monitoring of health either through labs or blood pressure.” But sometimes a girl just wants to get rid of her blotchy complexion or split ends, and in that case, social media suddenly becomes a quick (and free) healthcare provider. Today a crusade of trendy women’s vitamins – usually girlishly decorated bottles brimming with sweet gummy delights – promise girls gorgeous complexions and stronger nail beds. Brands like Olly or the famous Kardashian-endorsed Sugarbearhair barrage teenage girls’ Instagram feeds, but researchers may have some disappointing news for beauty supplement lovers. Dr. Pieter Cohen, associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School,
in an interview with Vox, described the effects promised by these supplements as “magical thinking.” According to Vox, many beauty supplements might contain one or two ingredients known to produce favorable results, but when they are combined with the rest of the ingredients in the batch, manufacturers don’t truly know how they will react together. These supplement companies can release products without providing any research to validate their vitamins’ worth, and if they do perform tests on their products, many companies only use a small number of subjects. So, if you are planning on taking vitamin advice from the Kardashians, Jenners or any other Instagram influencers, make sure to perform your own research to make sure you’re ingesting something worthwhile – and more importantly, safe. Though the promise of luscious locks can be inviting, sometimes it is safer to stick on mother nature’s side and simplify your vitamin regime. “I was tested for vitamin deficiencies to see which ones were right for me, and I found that I was lacking enough B-12 and D-3 naturally, so that is why I take those,” said Lydia Mahan, a freshman at the University of Miami. “I take omega-3, because it is an essential fatty acid that needs to be supplemented in almost everyone, and is important in brain function, and I take the Super C complex to try my best to stay healthy in college!” Mahan understands the importance of researching the quality of her vitamins. She trusts the brand Nature Made, because “they are number one pharmacist recommended and USP verified.” Choosing the capsule-shaped warriors we take to supplement our health or make up for deficiencies places a huge responsibility on consumers. Vitamin companies can put next to anything on the shelves, but that shouldn’t discourage you from upping your health game with a few key products. Luckily there are plenty of ways to navigate the twists and turns of the dreaded vitamin aisle.
VITAMIN MUST-HAVES
These household favorites are the most popular on today’s supplement market.
PROBIOTICS:
Probiotics win the gold medal for gut health. These beneficial bacteria balance out the good and bad bacteria in your body, improving your digestion and equipping the immune system for, well, just about anything. FISH OIL
If you’re not a regular fish-eater, fish oil capsules can be the next best way to ingest omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to brain and heart health. Even the medical community recognizes fish oil as an important supplement, recently turning it into a prescription supplement under the name Lovazza. VITAMIN D
Despite its name, Vitamin D is actually a hormone. It is responsible for maintaining strong bones and boosting the immune system. Most people are Vitamin D deficient, but since sunlight is a major source, UM students probably have their D consumption covered. MAGNESIUM
Magnesium supplements maintain blood sugar levels, blood pressure, muscle and nerve function. If you’re not a fan of dark green veggies, nuts or seeds – the magnesium-rich foods – then try adding a magnesium capsule to your daily vitamin regime.
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The model in this shoot displays the three parts of the body where a woman can take contraceptives – orally, in their armor an IUD. After she kept forgetting to take the pill form of birth control, UM sophomore Makelsey Page thought “what’s the next bet for me that I don’t have to think about taking all the time,” – Nexplanon, a hormonal arm implant.
Birth control methods have never been as plentiful for women as they are today. There are pills, IUDs and implants galore. With so many options, girls are often encouraged to start taking birth control as early as middle school. Although women are increasingly able to find suitable fits for their body’s chemistry, they are also often confronted with a slate of side effects. words_kelvine moyers. photo_kristian del rosario. design_sydney sapin.
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Since the boom of birth control feeling really tired, I completely lost my in the 1970s, contraception usage has appetite for a couple weeks and my level been popular among females from of anxiety was much higher,” she said. adolescents to working, middle-aged “I always felt like something was wrong women. According to Truven Health with me. She had the implant removed Analytics, a company that provides after three months, and now she doesn’t data to help people make informed use any form of hormonal birth control. healthcare decisions, one in five female Similar to Threatt, sophomore Sarah teens use an oral contraceptive. Often Braddock stopped using a hormonal dubbed simply, “the pill,” an oral contraception due to its impact on her contraceptive is a daily birth control body. Braddock began taking the pill method that prevents pregnancy by at the age of 16 in order to alleviate inhibiting ovulation. In comparison terrible menstruation symptoms. to other contraceptives, this method is “Before I went on the pill, every easy to take and is 99 percent effective other period I would be so sick that when taken consistently. I couldn’t get out of bed,” Braddock Other benefits of the pill – explained. depending on the pill chosen and After starting the pill, her period the patient’s medical history – may symptoms lightened up, but she began include the reduction of acne, experiencing drastic shifts in her mood. improved premenstrual symptoms She found other side effects such as and the reduced risk of ovarian cancer. migraines, spotting between periods, However, there is a chance of mild to liver damage and blood clots. After severe side effects. canceling her prescription, she quickly “The most common side effects felt her mood regulate. we tend to see are changes in bleeding “It felt a lot easier to be happy, which patterns, nausea, acne, headaches, was amazing,” Braddock said. “I no weight gain and mood issues,” longer struggled to pull myself out of said a nurse practitioner from the the emotional gutter each day.” Uhealth Medical Center who remains Threatt’s and Braddock’s experiences anonymous (for employment purposes). with hormonal contraceptives are “Although we can assist women in common. Studies have shown that choosing a method that fits their needs, hormonal contraceptives can impact there is no way to predict exactly how your mood and cause depression, an individual may respond and whether particularly in adolescents. Why isn’t they will have any side effects. The good there a greater focus on these side news is that there are many options to effects? Does the pressure of preventing choose from, and one can always switch pregnancy downplay the risks of to a different pill formulation or pick a hormonal birth control usage? different method if necessary.” For some women, the benefits of Makelsey Page, a sophomore at UM, hormonal birth control are worth found that the hormonal arm implant, these unwanted secondary effects. Nexplanon, was a more convenient and UM sophomore Jada Jameson believes comfortable option than the pill. With that “it’s totally reasonable to expect her busy schedule and conservative parents, Page needed a method that she “didn’t have to worry about taking every Male Birth Control day.” Nexplanon, which remains in place for three years after being inserted The Male Pill into the arm, provides Page the Currently going through clinical studies, convenience and anonymity she the “male pill” also known as dimethandrolone desires in her day-to-day life. undecanoate [DMAU], works by suppressing Conversely, UM sophomore sperm production. Morgan Threatt found that Nestorone-Testosterone though convenient, Nexplanon Also in clinical trials, but further along than did not work well with her DMAU, Nestorone-Testosteron is a gel made body chemistry. “When I of the synthetic hormones testosterone and was on Nexplanon, I was nestorone. This gel is meant to be applied and absorbed through the arms and shoulders every day. It also works to reduce sperm count.
side effects from something that keeps you from having children when you’re not prepared to.” However, she acknowledges the pressures that women face, and the disproportionate role that men play in pregnancy prevention. “The ability to use birth control does give me more control over my body, but the responsibility should not be solely on me to deal with it. Taking a pill every day or sticking an unregulated product inside of you just so that you can enjoy ‘carefree’ sex the way men do is annoying and can be painful or dangerous,” Jameson declared. Such side effects sparked a new wave of natural contraceptives. These methods of birth control allow individuals to prevent or plan pregnancy by monitoring of their natural ovulation cycle. With these methods, it’s just a woman and her body, so hormones remain untouched and side effects are avoided. Natural planning methods have been around for centuries, but it wasn’t until August 2018 that the FDA approved the first natural contraception mobile application. The app, called Natural Cycles, uses a basal thermometer to determine a woman’s fertile and infertile days. This method relies on the user for effectiveness. The individual must abstain from sex during ovulation and always use condoms. Non-hormonal tools such as Natural Cycles enable women to tune into their bodies, requiring true understanding of their own menstrual cycles. For some women, this is empowering, and the increased autonomy can alleviate the societal Condoms pressures of Worn during sex to prevent using birth pregnancy, condoms are the only control. method of birth control that prevent sexually transmitted infections. They are 98% effective when used correctly. Vasectomy This is a surgery in which the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm, are blocked or cut so that sperm can’t leave the body. It is a permanent protection against pregnancy so individuals should only get a vasectomy if they never want children.
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NIP’N
TUCK
As cosmetic procedures become more affordable and accessible across the board, Miami has gained a reputation for being an aesthetic enhancement hub. words_shruti mishra. photo & design_olivia stauber.
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M
According to Dr. Miami in an interview with Cosmopolitan, some surgeons “get a little high” after seeing their first plastic surgery. He explained that the grotesque nature of the procedures is exhilarating for the doctors behind the knives. “There’s actual joy from watching people getting manipulated.”
iami is characterized by the attractive people who reside in it, and in such an appearance-aware destination, people are always conscious of how they come across physically. It is inevitable that in a place so famous for its glitzy appearances, the field of plastic surgery would flourish. As cosmetic procedures gain popularity, Miami has become a hub for aesthetic enhancement. Miami has traditionally been far more accepting of plastic surgery than most other cities in the country. Cosmetic tourists from all over the nation seek out our shiny city as a surgical mecca in an effort to escape judgment from their peers at home. Keeping in mind some of Miami’s most popular industries – modeling and tourism – it is understandable why people prioritize their looks. Physical appeal and social following frequently provide Miamians with employment opportunities. In professions that prize physical beauty, cosmetic enhancements are not just popular, but often deemed necessary. Modeling agencies frequently ask job applicants to provide social media handles to analyze their image as well as their digital reach. For those whose livelihoods are contingent upon their attractiveness, cosmetic enhancement is commonplace. In today’s increasingly technology-fueled sphere, social media presence can be a useful tool to not only network, but also, in some cases, to establish a career. The integration of social media and cosmetic trends often leads to individuals opting for surgery to improve their looks. No one knows this better than the man behind the knife. “Social media has a tremendous influence,” said Dr. Michael Salzhauer, MD, FACS, more famously known as Dr. Miami. The internationally-renowned cosmetic surgeon attracts patients from countries across the world in search of a more sculpted chin or a more rounded nose. “With social media, you get to see how everybody else looks,” he continued. “People post their very best pictures online, and that can sometimes play tricks on people; they can think they’re not as attractive as the average person.”
“Any part of medicine that has to do with the external appearance has seen an increase in demand because of social media.” - Dr. Michael Salzhauer aka Dr. Miami PLASTIC SURGEON
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TUCK
But it isn’t just going under the knife that increases visual appeal, Dr.Miami explains. “It’s also cosmetic dentistry, dermatology – any part of medicine that has to do with external appearance has seen an increase in demand because of social media.” The increasing assimilation of social media into our daily lives is causing rates of cosmetic-enhancing procedures to skyrocket. “Social media tends to portray a certain look that everyone’s going towards. It’s almost unhealthy,” said Lalitha Kanumari, a freshman at the University of Miami, as well as an aspiring plastic surgeon. “We’re used to seeing certain models, certain features, certain facial structures and there’s a huge demand for those particular characteristics over others. People want to be a certain type of person.” Miami has clinics performing every procedure from standard breast augmentations to simple Botox treatments. In recent years, however, what these clinics have been most famous for are Brazilian butt lifts. This procedure, whose rise in popularity happened almost in tandem with the notoriety of the Kardashians’ bodacious figures, involves the reshaping of the waist and butt area by transferring fat from one part of the body to another. The end result is a curvy, hourglass figure. “Over the last ten years, the Brazilian butt lift has become a phenomenon,” said Dr. Miami. “Not only are there are more doctors that do that operation here than even in Brazil, but people fly from all over the world to come to Miami to get their butt lifts.” The perfect behind is becoming a beauty trend like no other; like the perfect nose, the perfect shape seems to be just a nip and a tuck away. Plastic surgery is not always cosmetic, though. For many, surgical enhancements are reconstructive. Reconstructive procedures treat areas of the body affected aesthetically or functionally by defects, abnormalities, infection, trauma or disease. “While cosmetic plastic surgery is very privatized, I’ve seen plastic surgery in hospitals mainly for medical purposes, like acid burn victims,” Kanumari said. “It’s very tailored to the patient. It can change people’s lives for the better.” Open dialogue around cosmetic procedures can help individuals determine if surgery is the right option. Dr. Miami urges those considering undergoing a procedure to “be honest with yourself, whether your maturity and emotional stability is at the right place to have surgery. It’s not for everybody. If you haven’t done your due diligence, then it’s better to be patient and wait. It has to be the right time.”
SCALPEL FRE E
ALTERNATIVES FILLERS: If you’re tapped into the beauty community on YouTube, you’ve probably heard the word “Juvederm.” Juvederm, and other fillers are injectable solutions that are placed in areas like the lips, cheeks, and nose to fill soft tissue, resulting in a plumper, uplifted, youthful improvement of appearance. The best part, no recovery time!
CHEMICAL PEEL: To achieve a more youthful appearance, many people are opting for regularly scheduled chemical peels. By removing old, dead skin, new layers are grown in its place and make the skin look more vibrant and clear. While chemical peels can vary in intensity, it is advised to avoid sun exposure in the days proceeding following the procedure.
COOLSCULPTING: In this growing alternative to liposuction, paddles are placed around fat-stubborn areas to suction the skin while also freezing the fat cells below it. Afterwards the area is massaged to break apart the fat and over time (with multiple sessions) fat naturally dissipates.
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FASHION
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Fashion keeps an eye looking forward, showcasing the best in style. Whether it’s bringing a new look to light or bringing back chic, retro styles, our readers are given a peek into what’s on the come up. Fashion is for those looking to make a statement, whether it’s an expression of yourself or the world.
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Cyber Splurge
Take a new direction to your wardrobe with matte blacks and punk accessories to achieve the ultimate ultraviolet look. Brett: wearing VFILES bodysuit, I.AM.GIA pants and Alexander McQueen pocketbook.
Inspired by the cyberpunk scene of the early 2000s, Ultraviolet blends futurism with grunge to create the underground look that stormed the fashion scene at the turn of the century. Influenced heavily by streetwear as well as the pantone color of the year, this shoot travels at a faster speed of light. But make sure to not get burned – it’s radioactive. photo_sonia broman and gianna sanchez. design_michael haring. styling & makeup_michael haring and abby podolsky. models_josette da silva, katie fitzpatrick, keagan larkins, jacob madaus-brueck, bella sandstead & brett weinstein.
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A Different Dimension
Leather legs and leopard skin combine for an extraterrestrial look. Katie: wearing bodysuit, skirt and boots from Dolls Kill
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Jacob: wearing vintage bomber and shades from Adam Selman x Le Specs Collaboration.
Supersonic Style
Elevate your clubbing ensemble with sleek blacks, skintight biker shorts and one-of-akind graphic tees. Jacob: wearing Hood By Air graphic tee Brett: wearing two piece Alala set Josette: wearing BCBG blazer
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Cosmic Takeover
Designer meets street grunge. Power moves only. Josette: wearing Givenchy track pants and Juniper and Blanc shades
Katie: wearing red vinyl skirt from NBD.
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Transcend Time
This 2000s velour look pops in primary colors making a bold statement. Bella: wearing sweatsuit from Danielle Guizo and bathing suit from Dolls Kill.
Keagan: wearing Forever 21 cargo pants and Kappa longsleeve
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T H E A M E R I C A N JEAN
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Jeans. A simple five-letter word representing a garment that has survived as a fashion staple in the past, present and undoubtedly the future. American fashions revolve around this multi-faceted, ready-to-wear item, appropriate for most any occasion. ‘Unpredictability’ is jeans’ middle name, keeping style gurus and fashionistas wondering which version of denim will take over next. words_callie jardine. photo_natalie rey. design_lindsey bornstein.
Before jeans became a staple, they were simply an answer to a problem. In 1871, Jacob Davis of Reno, Nevada, came up with a simple solution to miners’ need for durable clothing. Before Davis established the idea of “jeans,” miners struggled to find a way to combat the severe mine conditions that destroyed their pants’ pockets and button flies. As the local tailor, Davis was bombarded with the miners’ pleas for durable pants. He originally experimented with overalls made from rivet-strengthened stress points and durable “duck cloth” canvas. The pants were such a hit that Davis decided to protect his design with a patent, eventually forming a partnership with businessman Levi Strauss. Davis launched the jean business with this initial brown “duck cloth” design that was a mainstay up until 1896. Shortly after, he introduced denim blue-jeans, which eventually edged the brown duck out, partly because of the attire’s new market audience who embraced jeans as a casual fashion rather than work attire. By the end of the 20th century, the word “jeans” came to mean more than just a piece of clothing – they quickly took their place as a symbol of American culture. Today, thousands of styles of jeans are produced and sold on a global scale. Shoppers can usually find a pair that meets their needs, whether it be simple blue denim to boyfriend jeans or even some funky bell bottoms. For athletic body types with stronger, muscular legs, a flare silhouette creates the illusion of longer and leaner legs. This fit is recommended for ladies, while a slimmer fit with a straight leg is generally suggested for men. For a woman with a curvier body shape, boot cut jeans are ideal to enhance natural curves. Men with wide hips should try a relaxed, high-rise
fit with a straight leg to give them the appearance of a wider leg and backside. Women with a straight body type often opt for skinny jeans to accentuate their lean shape. For slimmer men, a straight leg or tighter jean with a tapered leg opening is recommended to avoid accentuating lankiness. While body types play a major role in deciding on the perfect pair of jeans, society’s views play a role too. Retro styles are back this winter. The highwaisted, straight or flared, full-length jeans – best worn with chunky heels – are also hot now. To give the retro styles a modern vibe, designers add a red tuxedo stripe to the sides of the jeans. “Right now, I’m selling anything with a racer stripe or some type of a stripe down the leg,” said Gail Blum, owner and buyer for Miami jeans shop, Tupelo Honey. “It’s flattering, it’s a little more different – it gives the person a reason to buy another pair of jeans.” Blum, whose family opened the local denim shop almost 30 years ago, has become skilled at tailoring certain pairs to individual customers’ favored fits and trends. “There isn’t a main reason to go out and buy a pair of jeans right now, unless it is something different, like the rigid, mom type of jean,” a style, she notes, is rising in popularity right now One iconic men’s and women’s retro piece also making a comeback is the all-denim Canadian tuxedo look. The Canadian Tuxedo came into vogue in
1951 during a slightly dubious social event, when famed crooner Bing Crosby got denied from a fancy Vancouver hotel simply because he wore all denim. Frustrated with this denial, Crosby returned to his friends and vented about the situation. They took matters into their own hands, approaching Levi Strauss to come up with a solution. Levi designed Crosby a denim tuxedo jacket, naming the piece “Canadian Tuxedo,” and they launched what has become an American symbol of defiance. Today, the Canadian tuxedo is back and more stylish than ever. High-end designers including Tom Ford and Raf Simons recently displayed the Canadian tuxedo in the Tom Ford Spring/ Summer 2018 Collection with navy tuxedos, matching handbags and denim shoes, as well as Raf Simon’s Calvin Klein collection with skinny jeans and matching denim shirts. Even though retro styles are making stronger fashion statements than ever before, don’t be fooled by this “sudden” trend comeback. Over time, all jean styles travel back to closets and retail racks. One minute, ’90s mom jeans are back. The next year, the ’80s acid washes or 2000s skinny jeans appear. That’s the beauty of American denim fashion – those ugly denim cargo pants that society laughed at a few years ago are predictably trendy again. Styles may change, but denim lasts forever – or at least until it gets a hole in it.
Model, Ali Starr Goebel, is sporting an entirely denim ensemble. This look is also called the Canadian Tuxedo, which began in the 1960s and has finally made a comeback. Goebel believes denim of any sort is an essential part in anyone’s wardrobe.
1920s-1930s: Working Jeans 1950s: The iconic American Blue Jean 1960s: Canadian Tuxedo and Bell Bottoms 1970s: Bell Bottoms 1980s: Acid Washes, Distressed and Jorts 1990s: Mom Jeans, Bootcut and Overalls 2000s: Skinny Jeans, Embroidery, Rhinestones and Flares
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I’m With the Band
In the age of social media, digital streaming and instantaneous news, performing artists have turned to alternative methods of making money in place of physical music sales – merch. words_gabrielle lord. photo_sasha manning. design_olivia stauber.
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While artists use merchandise – t-shirts, hats, sweatshirts and the like – as a way to keep them afloat, “artist merch” has garnered a cult following in recent years. Avid fans may line up for hours or even days to pay top dollar for their favorite artist’s t-shirt. Lucia Izzolo, a junior majoring in music business at the University of Miami, discussed the strategy of artists like Kanye West, who include the digital downloads of their albums in merch bundles. Digital downloads earn more royalty revenue than a stream. “The artist is ‘selling albums’ because of the fact that they’re selling merchandise,” Izzolo said. Before the Internet, band t-shirts and other memorabilia were sold only at performances, so in order to buy a tee, fans had to attend the show. Today’s marketing directors rely mostly on social media “influencers,” who get paid to positively sway public opinion by promoting a product or brand. From Kim Kardashian dominating Instagram in Kanye’s Wyoming merch to Justin Bieber roaming the streets of Montreal in a Led Zeppelin tee, audiences turn to these public figures for pop culture trends. As a result, merch has become a common market item for people who do not normally purchase or stream the artist’s music. “Sometimes, your shirt is a good conversation starter, and you can connect with people who have similar interests,” said University of Miami freshman Grace Dowd, who regularly sports her Led Zeppelin tee. Dowd believes it is more important to wear the merchandise of artists she connects with, rather than following a trend; wearing these pieces reveal a part of her personality because of the lyrics and stories behind the clothing. In this way, artist merch has also become a form of social commentary. Nicki Minaj publicly bashed Travis Scott for having girlfriend Kylie Jenner wear his Astroworld collection as a publicity stunt in order to help him surpass Minaj and land the number one album debut slot on the charts. It seemed the choice
of recording artists was to either join this trend or be left in the dust of the recording world, so Minaj released her own merch line. The outspoken rapper, famous for hits like “Super Bass” and “Anaconda,” released her new line of merch after publicly feuding with singer Cardi B at a New York Fashion Week party. In reference to the cat fight, Minaj had the phrase “Nicki Stopped My Bag” plastered on each piece. As pictures and videos flood media outlets, the demand for artist merch increases. Because availability is limited, it becomes exclusive, and thus valuable, in the consumer’s eye. As a result, fans are willing to pay more. Kanye West’s Life of Pablo collection priced t-shirts at $55. West’s show at Madison Square Garden made $780,000 in souvenir sales alone, according to Pigeons and Planes, Complex’s entertainment outlet. Artist merch is becoming more like collectors’ items and a luxury good of sorts. Another source of profits for artists is mass production. For instance, Justin Bieber sold his Purpose merch at concerts, pop-up shops and online to further promote his fourth studio album. He also sells his merch collections at chain retail stores, such as H&M and Urban Outfitters. The price of each artist’s merch varies. Due to its rarity, vintage merch can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. A tee with the original cover from the Beatles’ 1966 album Yesterday and Today recently sold for $19,932 on Ebay, according to Red Bull. Newer pieces of artist merch have a broader price range because of the many options available to consumers. For instance, some pieces are more intricate with a wider array of colors or visuals, while others are simpler. Popular artists sell their merch at high prices because they are well-known, and many have specific fan bases and social media followings. Today, artists can make between 10 to 35 percent of revenue through merch sales, changing the way of the music business industry for good.
R O L L I N G STO N E S LICK TEE (1975) Perhaps one of the most iconic t-shirts of all time, the Rolling Stones’ “tongue and lip” shirt was designed by John Pasche, an art student. While the band paid him 50 euros for the design, today, the t-shirt values at $300. THE RAMONES TEE (1983) This t-shirt was the band’s main source of income for years. As nostalgia sets in, their t-shirts – now retro collector’s items – have sold faster than ever. For instance, after Joey, a member of the band, died, an American clothing chain ordered 10,000 units of the shirt. Today, they can go for $200. N I R VA N A ( 1 9 9 1 ) Believed to be designed by Kurt Cobain, no one is quite sure of the logo’s meaning. The most widely accepted theory is that Cobain was inspired by The Lusty Lady’s Men’s Club marketing that included a smiley face. However, others believe it symbolizes Guns N’ Roses singer Axl Rose, a drunk person, or the Acid House. An authentic shirt costs approximately $350. T R AV I S S C O T T : AST R OWO R L D ( 2 0 1 8 ) Using his makeup-mogul girlfriend, Kylie Jenner, to promote his merch on social media, Travis Scott released a 28-piece collection for his third studio album, Astroworld. His website featured different products each day for nine days, giving consumers only 24 hours to make a purchase. Prices ranged from $13 to $374 depending on the item.
Concert merch is so exclusive now that wearing t-shirts such as the ones sophomore Shreya Arun and junior Naomi Somolou sport is considered a novelty. Arun wears a Childish Gambino t-shirt and Somolou wears a Travis Scott one. Wearing artist merch signifies a certain swagger, since not everyone can afford to buy it.
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FASHION ION FAST
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FAST FASH words_marissa vonesh. photo_sonia broman. design_joey haas.
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The fashion industry has radically changed over the past 50 years. According to “The True Cost,” an investigative documentary on the fashion industry, in the 1960s, 95 percent of clothes purchased in the United States were manufactured domestically. Fast forward to present day – 97 percent of items are manufactured overseas, affording bigname brands sky-high profit margins. Fast-fashion, the engine behind the fashion industry’s current economic model, is where inexpensive designs are quickly introduced into retail stores to stay on-trend. Before fast-fashion, fashion collections were shown twice a year – during Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter. Now, looks are available to consumers almost weekly. “[Zara] broke up a century-old biannual cycle of fashion,” said Masoud Golsorkhi, the editor of Tank, a London magazine about culture and fashion, in an interview with the New York Times. “Now, pretty much half of the high-end fashion companies – Prada and Louis Vuitton, for example – take four to six collections instead of two each year,” said Golsorkhi. “That’s absolutely because of Zara.” “I buy a lot of clothes for cheap,” said Shriya Airen, a junior at the University of Miami, majoring in biology. “Clothes go out of fashion so fast, so why would you want to wear clothes for more than a few seasons?” “The way to solve the problems in your life is through consumption, or at least that is what we are told,” said Dr. Tim Kasser, psychology professor at Knox College, in an interview for “The True Cost.” “We see as materialistic ambitions increase, so do anxiety and depression.”
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Origins
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“Where’d you get that shirt? I love it!” We’re always proud to announce a steal. But be advised – while these pieces might not be breaking the bank, they are breaking the environment and the human rights of many.
Currently, the minimum monthly wage for garment workers in Bangladesh is $63, compared to $280 in mainland China, which is the world’s biggest clothing exporter. This coming December, approximately 40 million workers in the garment industry are expecting a pay raise to $95 per month. Union activists, however, are wary.
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itting elbow to elbow, sweat dripping down their faces, garment factory workers were working in Rana Plaza one minute and crushed by eight floors of concrete the next. Loved ones stood by, sobbing and grasping onto one another. On May 13, 2013, 20 days after the building collapsed, 1,134 workers were found dead. Although the building was deemed unsafe the day before it collapsed, workers were forced to stay and work. Rana Plaza fell and became a symbol of global inequality and the corruption of the fast-fashion world. Each year, billions of pieces of clothing are manufactured in Bangladesh for Western brands. Typically, brands are attracted to production locations where costs – such as wages, employee benefits and health and safety – are minimal. Countries compete for big name brands, such as Forever 21, Zara and H&M, to manufacture in their country and do whatever they can to reduce the cost of production. “Globalized production basically means that all of the making of goods has been outsourced to economies particularly where wages are very low and kept low,” said John Hilary, the head of trade policy for London’s Labour Party and former Executive Director for the non-profit War on Want. “What that means is that those at the top of the value chain, they get to choose where the products are being made, and they get to switch if they want it cheaper.”
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Our model, junior Grace Williams, flaunts an outfit made of Macy’s shopping bags to illustrate how cheap materials produced en masse contribute to waste and pollution in the fashion industry.
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Because of “consumptionalism,” or the idea that clothes are meant to be used once and thrown away, stores like Forever 21, H&M and Zara reap high profit margins while inequality in places like Bangladesh runs rampant. William’s look was created using six disposable plastic bags.
Globally, consumers purchase 80 billion pieces of new clothing each year, which is a 400 percent increase from just two decades ago. Each year, the average American throws away an average of 82 pounds of textile waste, according to environmental journalist Lucy Siegle. “The reality is: a t-shirt is a t-shirt,” Golsorkhi said in an interview with the New York Times. “It does the same amount of damage. A t-shirt is equivalent to 700 gallons of water, gallons of chemical waste, so much human labor. But it used to be that we could do with three t-shirts a year. Now we need 30. Sometimes it’s actually cheaper to throw away clothes than to wash them.”
In a rapidly changing society, fast-fashion may feel like the only model. By looking at the industry in a holistic way, acknowledging the impact of the society, designers are searching for a solution to support the consumer demands. “I think most fashion brands start with a concept of a collection or a look, and they don’t tend to think who is going to make the product or ‘how can I ensure that producers or suppliers are gonna eat,’” said Safia Minney, founder and CEO of the sustainable fashion brand People Tree, in “The True Cost.” Minney’s brand started as a freelance network of production but has grown into a movement for sustainable practices during each step of the process. “Fair trade is the citizens response to correcting the social injustice of an international trading system where workers and farmers are not paid a living wage and where the environment is not considered at all to make the products we [make],” Minney said in the chilling documentary. “I think it’s about being a catalyst for change in the industry and showing that a different model works.” Ultimately, the consumer is in power. Simple questions have the power to improve brand’s social responsibility and the living conditions of a community.
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SUSTAINABLE SAVIORS
Is There a Better Way?
SUSTAINABLE
Globally, the fashion industry is worth $2.4 trillion, according to the McKinsey Global Fashion Index’s latest report. Yet, the booming industry is unable to secure basic human rights for people at the core of the supply chain. Second to oil, fashion is the second most pollutive industry in the world because of its cotton use – one of the largest pesticide and water intensive crops, according to One Green Planet. On top of being a pollutant to soil and drinking water, pesticides are often linked to birth defects, cancer and mental health issues. “It’s about our air, it’s about our world, it’s about our planet, it’s about our people,” said LaRhea Pepper, an organic cotton farmer from Texas, in “The True Cost” documentary. “You may not feel that you have the direct impact by buying this organic shirt, but the impact you are having is in the bigger picture at large, especially in the community where the cotton is being grown.” Although these countries have labor laws, the government needs the jobs provided by big brands. Since Western brands do not officially own the factories their clothes are produced in, they profit without feeling the total cost of the worker or the environment. “Eventually, there aren’t going to be resources to sustain fast fashion,” said Alex McIntosh, the business and research manager at the London College of Fashion’s Center for Sustainable Fashion in an interview with the New York Times. “Production costs will also get more expensive, and they won’t be able to keep this up. Value-based companies don’t have margins to absorb that additional cost.”
SAVIORS
The Cost of Clothing
The fashion world may seem hopeless when it comes to sustainability, but there are a number of companies that are looking to make a positive difference. They work to maintain ethical standards in their factories and they also use sustainable materials in production. Everlane
This company is known for its transparency. They make sure to choose ethical factories and create relationships with factory owners to ensure integrity in the creation of each of their products.
Outdoor Voices
This brand sources sustainable merino wool and polyester made from recycled water bottles for its garments. They also choose factory partners with working conditions and ethical practices in mind.
Able
This company works to create economic opportunities for their employees – especially women. These garments are made by fairly-paid women that have overcome difficult circumstances.
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MAIN EVENT
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Main Event feeds your craving for that which is intellectual and worldly. Whether it means revealing the local significance of an international issue or discussing topics that are too often ignored, Main Event has something for each of us. Set aside your responsibilities for a bit and divulge in Main Event – you’ll be left feeling more in touch with the world outside. That’s a promise.
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Veroneeka Dorval, a Univerrity of Miami freshman, is from Miramar, Florida and has deep roots in Little Haiti. She feels as though she sometimes has to mask some of her Haitian background in order to fit in. “It was kind of hard growing up, because I didn’t want to reject my heritage, but you know it was kind of hard to be proud to be a Haitian.”
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THEIR AMERICAN STRUGGLE
Haitian immigrants have experienced years of belittlement and shame in the U.S. – partly due to harsh prejudices and, more recently, their immigration status. But this beautiful population of people is one of Miami’s largest immigrant groups, and their story is one worth telling. words_elisa baena & kayla foster. photo_gianna sanchez. design_marissa vonesh.
Shithole: noun, vulgar slang. “An extremely dirty, shabby or otherwise unpleasant place.” – Oxford Living Dictionaries. Rubble spills over church bells, and crucifixes lay splintered on the ground. Houses are flattened like soggy cardboard boxes. Children scavenge landfills for food. Trapped dogs bark under collapsed roofs. This is the image of Haiti that has dominated media outlets since the earthquake in 2010. The crystal coast and verdant hills are blacked out by news headlines of corruption, poverty and crime, etching an rigid portrait of the western half of Hispaniola. If these are the images that are proliferated online and on the TV screen, one could be persuaded to dismiss Haiti as an ill-fated nation ridden with filth. These are the very judgments that create misconceptions about Haitian immigrants and encourage prejudiced behavior. The vulgar term that has recently cast a shadow on the island nation of Haiti came out of President Trump’s mouth at a White House meeting in January of 2017. Some believe Trump’s remarks were racist. Others bolster up his comments by arguing that he spoke candidly about a country that was devastated by a category 7 earthquake in 2010 and battered by a category 5 hurricane in 2016. “Whenever you see Haiti in the news, they always show the ugliest
parts,” said Leila Metellus, a freshman at the University of Miami. Her friend Laura Francois, who is a HaitianAmerican ’Cane, as well, butt in saying, “they do it on purpose because there’s this whole stigma around Haiti being only poor, only ugly.” The Haitian community is one of Miami’s most populous immigrant communities, yet it is largely excluded from the main stage of Miami’s identity. Haitians’ adversities are threefold: they are immigrants, speak a different language and are of a different race. Metellus, whose parents immigrated to the U.S. when they were in their early twenties, recounts being bullied in elementary school for being Haitian. Her bullies often felt like outliers, themselves, and retaliated by attempting to squash the cultural group they felt was a little below them: Haitians. “I talk about getting bullied when I was younger, but white people didn’t bully me. It was mostly AfricanAmericans and Jamaicans,” said Francois, who was also bullied. “I was discriminated against by [my] own kind, which is ridiculous. I understand there’s a superiority complex.” The bullying stemmed from confusion about Haitian culture and the country they came from. Veroneeka Dorval, a first-generation HaitianAmerican student in her first year at UM, said “they believe all Haitians are dark-skinned, dirty, disgusting. My classmates used to ask me if I had AIDS
or practiced voodoo.” After the catastrophic earthquake on Jan. 12, 2010, Haiti was designated as a country that was eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), established by Congress in the Immigration Act of 1990. TPS is a humanitarian program which suspends the deportation of immigrants from countries that have been affected by war or catastrophe. As Haiti attempted to recover from the earthquake that killed over 230,000 civilians and displaced over 1.5 million, Hurricane Matthew occurred and left over 35,000 Haitians homeless. Those with TPS can work in the U.S. and even get a driver’s license, but the protection status can only be extended up to 18 months at a time. On July 22, 2019, this status will expire. If a current TPS recipient has a preexisting order of deportation, it will be issued. Haitians who do not already have orders of deportation will be placed in a preceding in front of a judge. “Seeking asylum would be difficult at this point because you have to petition within a year,” said Irving Gonzalez, an immigration attorney. The Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act (HRIFA), enacted by Congress on October 21, 1998, allows certain nationals of Haiti who have been residing in the U.S. to become permanent residents and get a green card. Some may qualify to meet the eligibility requirements if they are the child of a principle applicant, or
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“My classmates used to ask me if I had AIDS or practiced voodoo.�
Leila Metellus, Laura Francois and Veroneeka Dorval are first-generation Haitian-American students in their first year at UM; they revealed the struggle of being children of immigrants, especially in the South Florida area where the Haitian population is not the most sizeable minority group. Unlike members of some other minority groups, many Haitians elect to stay in Haiti as adolescents and migrate to South Florida later in life.
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the spouse of a principle applicant. However, of the 58,000 Haitians who have TPS, the Center for Migration Studies estimates that only nine percent are married to a legal resident. Moreover, sixteen percent of Haitian TPS beneficiaries have lived in the United States for over twenty years. “It has been very traumatic for the community over the past four years since the first time that TPS was rescinded, then extended,” public health official Dr. Michele Jean-Gilles explained. “People are worried about all the investments that they’ve made in this community and what it means to have to uproot and go back to Haiti. Many people are worried about their children who were born in the states since TPS was granted.” Business owners like Dr. Larry Pierre, who runs the Center for Haitian Studies, are fearful of losing employees. “We have a lot of doctors and nurses that would be affected because they came to the U.S. under TPS and were able to continue their practice here,” said Dr. Pierre. “Now that the protection is ending, we have to find new health practitioners to fill those spots, and patients have to get used to a new doctor because of the deportation.” Some argue that TPS is as an example of an immigration program that has deviated from its original intent. Essentially, it is meant to be temporary. The program was not constructed as a path to long-term residency in the U.S. It is intended to provide a temporary place of residence to those living in countries that have been ravaged by disaster. Immigrants with TPS status would later return once the country is stable enough to receive its émigrés. But as Gonzalez points out, Haiti is not ready to receive an estimated 58,000 Haitians and their 27,000 U.S.born children. Out of these 58,000 TPS recipients, over 32,000 live in Florida. “It’s a really unfortunate situation,” Gonzalez said. “The basis that he [Trump] uses to grant the TPS is not really the proper basis. It is a flawed basis. There are still problems in that country. “But he promised in his campaign ‘I’m going to get everybody out of here’ without thinking of the consequences.
You can’t deport 50,000 or so people, but let’s say he does – we’re going to be sending American kids to Haiti.” Since 2010, Hurricanes Irma and Maria have also damaged parts of Haiti. Hurricane Matthew in 2016 saw an additional loss of life and property, as it destroyed 300,000 homes and killed more than 800 people. Haiti is still grappling with the first modern cholera outbreak that began in 2010. For these reasons, Haitians and HaitianAmericans argue that Haiti, which remains the poorest nation in the hemisphere, is not properly restored. “Haiti is in the perfect spot for every natural disaster,” Metellus said. “I’m sorry, but they really are. They would need a really strong infrastructure to withstand everything that comes at them, and they can’t do that in ten years.” Gonzalez thinks that Trump and his administration “are making a bad situation in that country worse.” “How are they going to feed everyone?” he asked. “What are the consequences for the Haitian economy when these people are no longer sending money to their families?” It can be easy to follow the media into the parts of Haiti that are still in severe disrepair, but Francois’ outlook is different. She spends her summers at her grandmother’s house in Haiti that is her equivalent of a Caribbean paradise. To her, the island is fraught with imperfection and charm. “There are so many beautiful places, and it’s natural,” Dorval said, tearing up as she recalled her recent trip to Haiti. “They have gardens of everything, like corn, plantains, lychees, tomatoes, sugarcane, lemon trees, avocados. There are wells all over the place and you would think that’s not a nice thing, but I used to love going to pump the water in the summer. It’s extremely pretty. I mean not even pretty, I think it’s beautiful.” Despite a dismal and disconcerting future for TPS recipients, Haiti remains a breathtaking island nation with resilient people who have not given up. The Haitian flag’s motto reads “L’Union Fait La Force:” Unity Makes Strength. Regardless of the imminent adversities, Haitians will stick together and will be stronger together.
CREOLE SLANG French-based Creole, the main language spoken among Haitians, has slang terms which unify its communities. Here are a few:
MEME Screwed
WA P J O N G O R G E Just wait and see, you’ll get what’s coming
SI DIEU VEUX If God is willing
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A CON SENSUS
Stepping Forward
words_jorge chabo. photo_gianna sanchez. design_joey haas.
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It’s been about 10 years since the digital revolution of music, where physical copies became a thing of the past and downloads and stream became the norm. As the music pushed forward, the industry has been held back – until now.
Anja Reese, Claire Griffin and Jessamine Clavero, three members of a Miami-based acapella group called BisCaydence, mimic the Beatles’ famous Abbey Road album cover. Broken records signify the shattering of music industry standards that often compensate songwriters unfairly for their work. Under the Music Modernization Act, artists who offer their music through streaming sites will get paid according to fair market standards.
Patrick McCarthy, known as Freaky Pat in the music industry, is a self-described folk rapper, singer and producer rising to fame with his soul-sampled beats. In the meantime, however, he’s also a junior at the University of Miami studying film. He produced his latest project, an EP, Daydream, alongside his friend, a producer by the name of Hubrex. And though making the music, they agreed, was exhilarating, the process of getting paid for Freaky Pat’s songwriting contribution is where things got rocky. Getting music onto a streaming service isn’t difficult. Freaky Pat, for instance, had to sign up with a digital aggregator, who, for a fee, sends the recording to a variety of different digital music services. That person then collects the revenue from the services – Spotify and Apple Music, for example – and passes it on to Freaky Pat. But that revenue only represents the portion due to the recording artist and record label. With digital streaming, Freaky Pat’s cut of the revenue doesn’t include any royalties that would normally be paid to the songwriter or music publisher if a physical album had been released in stores. For songwriters, getting paid at all – let alone in a timely manner – from digital music streaming services, has been a challenge since the services launched.
The separation of revenue paid to record companies and music publishers stems from the nature of music copyright. When you listen to your favorite track, two different sets of copyrights are involved. One belongs to the music publisher-- the other copyright belongs to the record companies, and it mprotects the music and lyrics of the song. The other copyright belongs to the record companies, and it protects the audio recording of the song itself. The song is considered separate from the recording, since many artists have recorded different renditions (think “covers”) of the same song. The songwriter is usually paid royalties by the music publshier for uses of the song, and the recording artist is usually paid royalties by the record company for uses of the recording. The Music Modernization Act (MMA) was signed on October 11, 2018, earning a great deal of praise from the entire music industry for making changes to three main areas of the industry’s payment infrastructure. One portion of the law created a normalized body to address mechanical licensing, which is the license between a digital music service and a music publisher (or the songwriter if they are not signed), for use of the music (audio only, not video) in on-demand streaming and downloads. The agency will be responsible for creating and maintaining a public database of song ownership information, allowing songwriters to be identified and associated with their songs and paid on time. While in the past there were a few different ways that the licensing and royalties were processed, now it will all be done in a single, streamlined, electronic way. According to Billboard, the board of this agency will include music publishers and songwriters, as well as an adviser representing streaming services. With a governing body representative of the content community, the database is one that everyone should agree on.
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“[This section of the act] makes some processes simpler and more streamlined and will impact royalty rates in a way that will have them better reflect a market rate,” said University of Miami Associate Professor Serona Elton. “The streamlined process should result in creators being paid more quickly, and if royalty rates are adjusted upwards, that will result in creators being compensated more favorably.” Elton should know, as she currently serves as the Chair of the Music Media and Industry Department, as well as Director of the Music Business and Entertainment Industry program. Part of this act is meant to address the disproportionate pricing model that streaming services adopted early on. Meredith Rose, the public counsel for Public Knowledge, focuses on copyright, Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), intellectual properties and other issues of governance within the realm of music ownership. She explains how a change in the 801b standard helps to correct royalty rates paid out from services like Spotify. “Section 801b basically said, ‘Okay, when judges set rates they have to consider what the free-market rate for this would look like in a hypothetical free market,” Rose said. The changes to the royalty rates system give specialty courts who handle cases within the music industry the ability to consider what record labels, music publishers and songwriters would normally each earn for their music in other areas of the global marketplace.
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- Patrick McCarthy, aka Freaky Pat RECORDING ARTIST
“Let’s say someone is using a recording in a film,” Elton said. “We call that use a synchronization use. It’s common for the film producer to pay the owner of the sound recording copyright and the owner of the song copyright the same amount of money. For example, they might pay $10,000 to the record company and $10,000 to the music publisher.” Before MMA, the royalty model for services like Spotify allotted more money in royalties to record companies than to the songwriter or music publisher of a song. If the court gets to consider that the relative revenue or royalty split between songs and recordings in other uses are equal, as is the case with synchronization uses, the court is now able to set the royalty rates for the music publisher higher. Recent University of Miami graduate Ryan Garcia, who goes by the artist name RG, believes this act is an important step in music regulation. He released his first major project, “Dogme 45,” last year on all the major streaming services. Currently, however, RG is working for the International Federation
of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) as an Anti-Piracy Operations Specialist. In this role, he’s been able to learn the ins and outs of the industry, emphasizing the need for a public database. “The governing agency is super cool because we don’t have an agency like that within the government working for us within the music industry, specifically” RG said. Prior attempts to create an industry database of information have failed. MMA does a great deal to protect songwriters and music publishers by modernizing the current system. Independent artists like RG and Freaky Pat aren’t the only ones who will benefit though the changes brought about by the MMA will likely encourage a wave of truly revolutionary tunes.
GAP GAP THE PAY
“What is the gender pay gap?” you might ask. “Is it even a problem anymore? It’s 2018.” More than ever, inequality between the sexes is firing up the country. Despite protests, marches and public outcry, change is still in the works. words_lindsey bornstein. photo_gianna sanchez. design_taylor murdock.
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GAP GAP THE PAY
Models Jessie Lauck and Will LaRossa encapsulate the pay disparity between white American males and females in the workplace. Neither of our models, they made sure to note, are proponents of the gender inequality that plagues the American workplace. Both are looking to enter media-related fields, while working to ensure pay equality for all.
Boots pounded the pavement. Feet, some resolute and others tiny, trampled across city blocks and the streets burst at the seams with protesters. Dozens of colored jackets wove through these streets, their owners crawling like ants from a bird’s eye view. Women (and men) – some just learning to walk, some seemingly on their last legs – marched and roared, yielding homemade posters demanding things like “Women’s Rights Are Human Rights” and “The Future Is Female” (and others not so euphemistic). On Jan. 3, 2017, almost 3.3 million people worldwide participated in various “Women’s Marches” to protest gender inequality. Among the myriad reasons to protest is the infamous gender pay gap. “What is the gender pay gap?” you might ask. “Is it even a problem anymore? It’s 2018.” The most frequently used statistic is that white women make somewhere around 78 percent of every dollar that white men earn; for women of color, that number is sometimes drastically lower. In a number of national independent studies released since 2004, women were said to make about 78 cents to the dollar compared to a white man’s take-home pay. The figures for African American and Hispanic women are 63 percent and 54 percent, respectively. In Miami, specifically, the figures are slightly more promising, with women overall earning 87 percent of every dollar earned by a man, according to a 2014 study by Florida International University’s Metropolitan Center and Miami Dade’s auditor’s office; however, disparities still persist. Black and Hispanic women are the likeliest demographics to live in poverty – 31 percent of black women and 21 percent of Hispanic women living in Miami survive below the poverty level, while the figure is just 12 percent for white women. However, there still exists a sizeable minority who believes the wage gap is artificial or represents a fictionalized narrative based on the manipulation of certain statistics. Many proponents of this idea point out the fact that women are often drawn into industries such as administrative work or childcare, while men tend to enter sectors relating to finance, management or law. For example, the FIU study showed that men in the legal field held vastly different job titles than women; men tended to own their own firms or hold highlevel management titles, whereas women were likely to be administrative clerks. These men made an average income 114 percent above that of women. Critics tend to cite the idea that women may be reluctant to negotiate for higher starting salaries or yearly raises. But according to a research study conducted by New York University psychology professor Madeline Heilman, women’s attempts at promotions and salary negotiations are often hampered by these very assumptions. Both statistical and anecdotal evidence have supported Heilman’s hypothesis. After graduating from the University of Michigan with a degree in psychology and communication, Leslie Schraer moved up the professional ladder in the field of advertising and sales, eventually landing a position as a high-level director of a corporate marketing division. Much to her surprise and delight, she was promoted to vice president of her division shortly after returning to the company from maternity leave after the birth of her first child. “About four months after I was promoted, HR accidentally sent me a spreadsheet with everybody’s salaries on it, and I saw that I was being paid about $50,000 less than the lowest-paid vice president,” Schraer said. She remembers that all of the other vice presidents at the time were men, so, feeling terribly undervalued, Schraer demanded that her salary be brought up to parity with the other departments’ executives in her position. “I said, ‘I work crazy hours, I work harder than everybody else here and it’s disgusting that you thought you could pay me what you were paying,’” Shraer said. “Yet they still treated me like I was the one who was asking too much, that I was being the problem.” There exists a cognitive disconnect between the perceived gentleness of women and the attributes necessary to successfully perform in male gender-typed roles. As a result, women’s negotiations are often viewed as out of character for the types of roles they’re fighting to fill, such as management or finance. Further investigation
GIMME SOME
MONEY
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BUCK THE SYSTEM
found that women working in maledominated industries or roles are often penalized when they appear to be less sensitive or nurturing than what’s expected of them. “I can’t believe that I made myself feel bad about asking for what I was owed,” Schraer said, thinking back to her own plight. “It feels like you’re asking a favor as a woman.” Schraer is not alone. A study conducted by research firm McKinsey & Co. and the Lean In foundation surveyed 132 companies employing more than 4.6 million people. They found that despite women being more likely to try and negotiate for raises, women are actually 30 percent more likely than men to receive negative feedback for doing so. In employee evaluations that were examined by the study, women were often deemed “intimidating,” “too aggressive” or “bossy” after broaching the sensitive topic of salary bumps. “The reason for this pushback lies in many of the unconscious assumptions we all hold about women and men,” wrote Sheryl Sandberg in an article for the Wall Street Journal. “We expect men to be assertive, look out for themselves, and lobby for more – so there’s little downside when they do it. But women must be communal and collaborative, nurturing and giving, focused on the team and not themselves ... So when a woman advocates for herself, people often see her unfavorably.” These critiques extend to both women who choose to have children as well as women who don’t. An April 2016 report released by the Senate Joint Economic Committee’s Democratic Staff suggests that mothers like Schraer face a “mommy penalty” for having children; according to the report, women with children make an average of $756 per week, while men with children make an average of $1013 weekly. By contrast, men who do not have any children act as a baseline for the study, making an average of $861 per week. A study from Denmark – a country with arguably one of the world’s most
progressive social safety nets – shows that women with kids face a drop-off in salary immediately after the birth of their first child, despite the government’s commitment to providing nationalized child care. This phenomenon seems to be exclusive to mothers, but not fathers, in Denmark, despite the country’s progressive slate of legislation designed to protect against workplace disparity. “The world is not created to be able to be a mom and in business,” said Schraer, now the founder of a children’s play experience business called The Gagasphere. “Unless I was willing to hire a nanny, I was not going to be able to have my job.” She encourages other young women to learn from her experience, pointing out that had it not been for her boss pushing her to constantly renegotiate her salary, it never would have occurred to her that she could. “What I will say that’s interesting,” she quips about her current role as her company’s founder, “is that we have two hires who have ever negotiated, or tried to negotiate, for higher hourly rates. They were both men – boys – so if you think about it, 100 percent of the people who have ever tried to negotiate for a higher salary or rate were both male.” Grace Williams, a junior studying political science and media management at the University of Miami, experienced the same phenomenon almost 15 years later. In her role as a Lead Student Intern in the Office of the Secretary for Health and Human Services, Williams, 20, worked under Secretary Tom Price handling tasks related to legislative healthcare research, internal building communications and travel schedules. She remembers hearing about a male colleague’s salary in an equivalent position at the U.S. Department of Commerce, and then about another in the U.S. Department of Transportation. “I just found out each department was having a paid internship program, and I found HHS literally just brought me in and decided not to pay me.” Tom Price’s administration of “definitely all white men,” she noted,
was not especially inviting, nor was it transparent about its salary structure. Williams jokes that there were “a few women sprinkled in there,” but, ultimately, the racial makeup of the staff still skewed overwhelmingly Caucasian. “There was one Indian woman.” Despite decades of outcry over a lack of representation in the workplace, the gap doesn’t appear to be closing any time soon. According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, new U.S. Census data revealed that the wage gap isn’t expected to disappear until 2059 – over 40 years away, for those who are counting. For workers between 25 and 34, however, there’s a hint of a silver lining: women in this age group earn 89 cents to every male dollar, according to a PEW Research Center study. Increased activism among young people has perhaps started to rock the boat; however, it could take generations before the tide truly turns for women.
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REDTIDE
The poisonous algal bloom, referred to as the red tide, has left the Florida Gulf Coast’s white sand beach littered with odorous fish kills, discolored water and dense green algae. The red tide began in October 2017 and has been decimating Florida’s west coast ever since. words_abby washer. art_grace chepenik. design_lindsey falack.
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T
he algae, Karenia brevis, has occurred naturally in the Gulf since the 15th century. According to research done in 2006 by Larry E. Brand, a professor at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, the blooms of K. brevis produce chemicals called brevetoxins, which affect the vertebrate nervous systems of marine mammals. The density of the algal blooms has increased significantly, largely due to human activities. Over 2,000 tons of dead marine life have washed up on the shores of Florida’s beaches, costing millions of dollars in cleanup costs. By August 2017, Florida Governor Rick Scott had declared a state of emergency in seven counties on the West Coast. The algal bloom is expected to last well into winter and possibly even spring months, putting even more marine life at risk. Manatees are beginning to migrate back to coastal waters, exposing them to the red tide and skyrocketing their mortality rate. Unfortunately, manatees are only one marine animal that has suffered from the bloom’s disastrous effects. According to Adam Roberti, a volunteer for the Miami Dade County Sea Turtle Conservation Program, Florida’s coasts are the perfect nesting spot for sea turtles, which are now an endangered species. “The hatchlings are starting to come up and make it into the water,” he said. “If the red tide is there, then they are not nearly as likely to survive.” Since the bloom appeared in October 2017, sea turtles, manatees, dolphins and birds have experienced the highest mortality rates behind fish. Due to the high concentration of the blooms, they are not just harmful to marine life. The Florida Department of Health’s website warns locals who live near coastal areas of potential side effects including eye, nose and throat irritation as well as respiratory issues commonly referred to as the “red tide tickle.” These effects are especially dangerous for those with asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions. “We couldn’t even eat outside,” said Morgan Smith, a senior at the University of Miami who interned at the Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota this past summer. The air quality was so bad in the area during summer months that locals could feel its respiratory effects while driving inside closed cars. In August, the Sarasota County website noted that over 255 tons of red tide debris had been collected on their beaches alone. While many beaches are being closed due to the dangers of the bloom, others remain open with warnings, as the economy of several cities along both the east and west coasts of the state have been struggling. Many local businesses rely on tourism and have lost tens of millions of dollars due to the bloom, causing some businesses to close their doors to the public. Adam Lambert, a resident of Oldsmar, a city on Tampa Bay, owns a fishing business and began to notice the changes that the red tide was causing around two months ago. Since then, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued a temporary catch-and-release policy on counties that have been greatly affected. Lambert worries about the future of his business as the problem gets worse. “If this continues, it will kill our fish population,” Lambert said, stressing the potential disasters the bloom could cause if
it survives into winter and spring months as projected. Under the direction of Governor Scott, the state’s tourism board, Visit Florida, has created a $500,000 emergency grant program to assist local tourism boards in affected counties. Despite all efforts, local businesses such as Lambert’s will continue to be at risk until the red tide has subsided. Unfortunately, there is no way to forecast the blooms, as they cannot be seen on satellite. “The duration of a bloom in nearshore Florida waters depends on physical and biological conditions that influence its growth and persistence,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Therefore, the conditions can be monitored with forecasting tools that attempt to predict how long the red tide will last, but no one can be certain. The causes of the heavily concentrated outbreak have been widely debated. The most commonly cited cause of the blooms is increased nutrient-rich land runoff, from both natural and manmade sources. Many locals in affected counties believe there is a connection between the dumping in Lake Okeechobee that eventually meets the Gulf of Mexico and the large red tide blooms that follow. For years, the nutrient-rich water from Lake Okeechobee was released into nearby rivers. The sugar industry, comprised of several companies between South Florida and Lake Okeechobee – many of which heavily contributed to both political campaigns in 2016 and 2018 – have been under fire from the public for operating under the radar, while contributing to this issue. The companies are rumored to have given money to several Floridian political leaders, possibly affecting their decisionmaking processes in regard to water policy in the state. Agricultural runoff is believed to have exacerbated the issue, although it certainly is not the sole contributor. According to The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), not only is there no direct link between nutrient pollution and the red tides, but the algal blooms occurred in Florida long before the coastlines were developed or settled at all. They do, however, note that the blooms can use manmade nutrients from the urban or agricultural runoff for their growth once they come in contact with each other. Despite intense research efforts being conducted by several laboratories around the country, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) stands behind their statement that there is currently no way to control the blooms. The Mote Marine Lab has continued extensive water testing since receiving $100,000 to conduct research and animal rescue in partnership with the Coastal Conservation Association of Florida. According to senior Morgan Smith, who worked for the lab’s Coral Health and Disease Program, the research team takes a cell count every morning and researches the effects that the algal bloom has on the results taken from their phytoplankton, crab and scallop labs. Their website tells of the team’s dedication to taking a holistic approach in understanding the bloom with hopes of mitigating its effects. While the bloom is most highly concentrated on the west coast of Florida, it has been making a rare appearance on the
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REDTIDE HOW
YOU
CAN HELP east coast since October of this year. Beaches in Palm Beach and Martin County were closed due to the toxic algal blooms after swimmers started to complain of scratchy throats, and coughing. Miami Dade County has also closed several beaches where the waters have shown to have “medium concentration” of the algae. The emergence of the bloom in the Miami area has brought concern upon University of Miami students. Megan Berger, the President of the Scuba Club, discussed her recent conversations with advisers and school administrators over the movement of the red tide and its apparent effects on students. “If one of our divers has asthma, it would be putting them at risk,” she said, acknowledging the dangers of diving in affected waters, despite offshore conditions being generally less severe. While every member is required to sign a waiver assuming the risk before a dive, Berger and the club’s advisers will avoid any beach dives, and will only plan boat dives in areas clear of the algae. Despite the algae not having hit Miami-Dade County in high concentrations yet, several beachgoers in Broward County recently complained of coughing and irritation. In response to the proximity of their beaches, Miami-Dade County officials closed several northern beaches – all southern beaches have remained open, including Miami Beach, which is heavily driven by tourism. “We are taking this proactive step to ensure our residents and visitors are not affected as we collect samples in other areas for state testing,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez wrote in a letter to the Miami Board of Commissioners. Although the outbreak of the red tide is concerning or even devastating for all Florida residents, visitors and the state’s much-loved marine animals, staying updated on the current locations of the bloom, as well as the continued research and animal rescue efforts, is all students can really do until the issue is finally resolved.
Despite the disheartening crisis of the red tide outbreak on the east and west coasts of Florida, there are several ways that everyone can help improve conditions. The Marine Mote Laboratory website lists many ways that residents of the state, or even people in town for a visit, can pitch in. If you are in an affected area, report if you experience any respiratory irritation or other symptoms through their free app CSIC (Citizen Science Information Collaboration) or by visiting www. motecsic.org. You can also use the app to send a report if you spot any dead fish or discolored water. If you notice any distressed animals, including sea turtles, dolphins or manatees, send a specific report, including photos and video if possible, to wildlife responders at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) using the phone number 888-404-3922. To go above and beyond, you can ask your county and city governments how you can help. Each area needs different aid and attention; no service act is too small. Your willingness to help can make all the difference in this outbreak.
Abstract art was inspired by the vague future of the environmental phenomenon overtaking our beaches. Painted by UM sophomore Grace Chepenik, these artworks encapsulate the struggle we face both in the long and short term. Although the effects of red tide are beginning to subside in some places, the beaches of Florida’s west coast are still considered a public safety hazard.
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