Issue 3, Vol. 64

highlights January 2024

IMMIGRANTS WELCOME How the School District Reacts to Rising Immigration

IN THIS ISSUE Gables Hall of Fame

Page 6

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Page 20

Issue 3, Volume 64 | Coral Gables SHS | 450 Bird Road, Coral Gables, FL 33146

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Contents

editorial board Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Copy Editor Business Manager Social Media Manager Adviser Features News Opinion Sports The Scene Insight Content Online

Emily Kardjian Georgia Rau Camila Perez-Clavarino Nathalie Schwart Anaïs Jamali Melissa Gonzalez Julia Volman Divya Dave Ava Volman Alexander Brazda Carolina Castro Juan Fajardo Manuel Espinoza Alyssa Dopico & Santiago Giraldo

staff writers Alexandra Fels Alicia Fajardo Andrea Mase Arwen Law Emilia Kohnstamm Hazel Grosell Juan Chavez Isabela Duarte

Lily Goron Maria Ardila Marie Weisson Olivia Simon Samantha Sears Solal Benkemoun Stacy Urbina William Hardie

features

The 2023 Hall of Fame ceremony honors 11 of the most influential Gables alumni and faculty.

publication policy highlights is the official student-produced news magazine at Coral Gables Senior High School published and produced by highlights staff members. highlights has been established as a designated public forum for student journalists to educate and inform their readers on issues of concern to their audience and dissemination of news and ideas to the entire school community.

As the producer of a scholastic publication, highlights subscribes to the responsibilities set forth by the National Scholastic Press Association Code of Ethics for scholastic journalists and advisers. According to Miami-Dade County Public School Policy, student media is not subject to prior review by administration or district personnel and as such, all content is determined by and reflects the views of the student staff members only. highlights welcomes reader feedback. All letters should be addressed to highlightscghs@gmail.com with the subject line “Letter to the Editor.” highlights reserves the right to publish any letter sent.

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news

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Updates to substitute requirements Mental health curriculum changes

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opinion

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The college application struggle

Comparing the CLT and the SAT

16-17

sports

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Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift

Freshman gymnast Rebecca Staskin

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the scene

Pop-up flea markets around Miami provide eco-friendly ways to explore the city’s fashion and culture.

contributors Natalia Clement Prudence Truchot Rebecca Staskin

Issue 3 Volume 64 January 2024

26-27 insight

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On the cover: MDCPS integration programs support high volumes of immigant students.

What is your opinion? Tell us your point of view on a topic published in highlights by sending us an email addressed to highlightscghs@ gmail.com titled “Letter to the Editor.” We reserve the right to publish any letters sent.

winter wins

Alexandra Fels/highlights

PAGEANT KING: Streamers are released by contestants

as senior Jamar Howard, Mr. Gables Players, is crowned the 2023 Mr. Coral Gables on December 20.

William Hardie/highlights

WINNING

SMILE:

Senior Carolina Martinez holds up a gift card after winning “finish the lyric” in the December pep rally.

Anaïs Jamali/highlights

VICTORY SHOT: Senior Gabriel Chang plays offense against Schoolhouse Preparatory, winning with a final score of 82-43.

William Hardie/highlights

PLAYING WITH FIRE: Freshman Vincenzo Lopez uses chemicals to change the in teacher Mohammed Khan’s

color of flames chemistry class.

from the editor-in-chief

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ABLES IS MADE UP OF A fusion of diverse cultures and communities from its past and present. It is a culmination of all the students and faculty currently here and those who have come before us, leaving an enduring impact for us to take into our futures.

Through Project UP-START and the Student Influx Plan, Gables, along with other schools across Miami-Dade, work to leave a lasting effect on their students (pages 2831). Aiming to provide an equitable and effective education to students from all backgrounds represented in our student body, these programs contribute to Gables’ role as an inclusive learning environment that is continuously working to provide education catered to its students’ needs.

Such needs go beyond the purely

educational, as students’ mental health continues to be an issue of great concern to both our school and county as a whole. In response, funding and resources have been allocated towards addressing mental health through Miami-Dade County’s Department of Mental Health Services, making sure that students are taken care of beyond academics (page 11).

Looking beyond their high school years, Gables students have a well-worn path to follow. Gables Hall of Famers like Paul Huck, ‘58, and Mitchel Berger, ‘70, teach us the value of perseverance and the importance of making the most of our current high school experience to help us succeed afterwards (pages 5-6).

Reflecting on their past, they show us Gables’ role in our futures.

Regardless of what comes next, our time

at Gables will indisputably have shaped who we become and the memories we keep.

Mr. Coral Gables pageant contestants will never forget participating in their group dance (page 13) and our student athletes will always remember the tight-knit relationship within their team, even after senior night (page 21).

Through its programs and traditions, Gables creates an environment apt for learning and personal growth. It is up to the students, however, to take full advantage of our resources and opportunities so we can best leverage them for our futures. h

Sincerely, Emily Kardjian Editor-in-Chief preview

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The future is bright

Two Gables juniors unite mental health awareness and artificial intelligence in a revolutionary new app

BY HAZEL GROSSEL, STAFF WRITER

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HE FIRST TIME JUNIORS JUAN Varela and Felipe Escobar spoke about programming was in February 2023 at Codemania, a coding competition in Coral Gables. Instantaneously, they developed a connection fueled by their shared passion for computer science.

In their sophomore year, Varela and Escobar united during Gables teacher Nikki Brown’s Business and Entrepreneurship class, where they were required to participate in the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship’s Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge. The task is to plan and pitch a unique business idea to take to the local. regional and national levels.

Varela and Escobar began racking their brains for a novel concept immediately.

After meeting at a local restaurant, the duo discovered their mutual interest in mental health and curiosity about the largely unexplored capabilities of artificial intelligence. Consequently, the pair created an app called Bright, a unique fusion of mental health and AI. Bright’s AI chats with users, guiding them through their struggles using published psychological research. The software is designed to converse in a humanlike and conversational manner.

“At first, Bright was merely an assignment,” Varela said. “However, after our first presentation, I noticed that the idea behind the app resonated with people. That motivated me to invest more time and effort into seeing what it could become.”

At its core, Bright is a means to improve

HALL TALK

The highlights staff records what students are talking about in the halls.

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the nation’s current mental health crisis. Varela and Escobar sought an accessible mental health resource because they understood that mental health is a severe struggle for many adolescents. Through their perseverance and teamwork, the two were able to develop a solution.

After the duo designed their idea, Brown revised it and gave them the tools they needed to create a compelling visual display. Then, Varela and Escobar submitted their business plan to NFTE and practiced presenting Bright to Brown’s class, eagerly biding their time until the competition.

When it was finally time to pitch their idea to a panel of business leaders and successful entrepreneurs at Miami Dade College’s campus, their audience was impressed. The team advanced to the regional competition, where they had a similar impact. “[Varela and Escobar] were very prepared, and they were excellent with their business pitch and outstanding when they were questioned by the judges,” Brown said.

“They seemed poised for continued success in their endeavor.”

In what felt like a fraction of a second, they triumphed at the regional level, bypassing tens of thousands of competitors from high schools nationwide and advancing to NFTE’s national competition in New York City. Then, 46 of the best young entrepreneurs, including Varela and Escobar, filed into the InterContinental Hotel in Times Square to present their concept.

The pair emerged among the nation’s top 10, a remarkable achievement for the two.

Hazel Grossel/highlights

DUO: Juniors Juan Varela and Felipe Escobar create an AI therapy app for an NFTE competition.

“What sets Bright apart is that it is both innovative and socially conscious, which other competitors didn’t consider,” Escobar said. “My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to take your idea seriously and work hard no matter what.”

Although they reached national recognition, their passion persisted, leading Varela and Escobar to develop a mobile version of Bright to launch on smartphones.

The two continue to look for ways to incorporate the technology they created for Bright into more applications.

This abundance of dedication, innovation and synergy is precisely what the pair’s imaginative app is fueled by. Due to their nationwide recognition Gables and Bright are in the limelight.

“Started calling people’s opinions of me fan theories.”

“I used to think I was indecisive. But now I’m not so sure.”

“Red flag: when they’re ungoogleable,”

“I put the “pro” in procrastinate.”

“Literalists take things literally, and kleptomaniacs take things (literally).”

“Due to inflation the five-second rule has become the ten-second rule”

Design by Julia Volman/highlights

The rhythm returns

With thundering beats, the Gables Drumline returns and is set to bring Gables school spirit to new heights

BY ANDREA MASE, STAFF WRITER

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FTER SOME TIME AWAY, THE Gables Drumline has been brought back with a bang. As a branch of the school band, the percussionists have begun to participate in student activities, uplifting Gables’ spirit. They hope to continue to do so along with accomplishing other goals for the future.

The Gables Band of Distinction was a popular elective and extracurricular for students prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It was a distinguished band that included a drumline, a marching band and more. After the elective’s disbandment in 2020, Krystel Espada, the chorus teacher at the time, took over as the sponsor and made it an afterschool activity. Following her departure, which left band members unable to practice, drumline members began enrolling in the new band teacher Jonathan Canales’ class this year.

In addition to practicing during eighth period, members rehearse for three hours after school twice a week: Tuesdays and Thursdays. After debuting at the homecoming football game, they hope to put their practice into play at more school activities such as pep rallies, football games and basketball games.

“Bringing back a band like the one that was illustrious in the

60s and 70s would only help Gables,” band teacher Jonathan Canales said. “We would be able to go to competitions, travel, and get our name out there.”

Although members play as a group during performances, they have time to practice individually, allowing other students to listen and critique their peers. Additionally, drumline members attend drills where they rehearse in pairs, either playing together or as mentors and mentees.

For example, freshman drumline member Brianna Hernandez explains that knowing how to play other instruments is very helpful with coordination and rhythm, both skills needed to excel in the drumline. These different drills help produce a more cohesive sound and exciting energy.

“Not only is it really fun, but the drumline is the heartbeat of the band,” Hernandez said.

“I love being a part of this amazing group.”

Musicians in the drumline are expected to be on top of their practice schedule, know the duties of their role in the band and work well with others. The drumline is split into three groups distinguished by their three percussion instruments: the tenor, snare and bass drums.

Each section has its own captain, who is responsible for maintaining communication both within their section and with the captains of other groups. As the tenor section leader and drumline captain, senior Carlos Villalobos prides himself

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Design by Julia Volman/highlights

Andrea Mase/highlights

DEBUT:

Junior Louis Peña drums alongside the rest of the group at the annual homecoming football game on Oct. 26, 2023. on perpetuating discipline and enthusiasm.

“That’s what really matters the most about the drumline and everything else for that matter,” Villalobos said. “Trying your hardest and giving it your all.”

Being that the drums are a very loud instrument, it has been difficult for them to find a practice location during school hours that would not disrupt others’ learning environments. However, to overcome this issue, they have moved their practice location to behind the 9000s building.

Creating an inviting environment for students, the members of the drumline are the heartbeat of Gables and its activities. They hope to create a legacy for future musicians at Gables and inspire the Cavalier community. h

SENIOR NIGHT SPIRIT: Bass drummer Imanol Adair Vazquez Casillas shows his school spirit drumming at Tropical Park for Gables’ Cheer Team’s senior night on Nov. 3, 2023.

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All-star Cavaliers

highlights features five Gables Hall of Fame inductees who have significantly impacted their fields

BY GEORGIA RAU, MANAGING EDITOR

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ABLES OPENED ITS DOORS over 70 years ago, and since then, its well-rounded, educational experience has produced many notable personnel who went on to build successful careers in various professions.

The Coral Gables Senior High School Hall of Fame honors exemplary Gables

alumni who are a testament to this fact and retired Gables faculty who have helped the school foster this environment.

The HOF is orchestrated by Friends of Gables High, a committee of alumni, parents and other community members that aims to improve Gables and help its students. The tradition began decades ago but was later

abandoned due to budget cuts. After a 15-year hiatus, FOGH resurrected the HOF last year.

The ceremony took place on Nov. 3, and 11 inductees delivered speeches to the student body, offering advice to current Cavaliers. highlights features five of the inductees, while the remaining six can be found on the CavsConnect website.

Paul Huck, ‘58

William Hardie/highlights

PAUL HUCK

Paul Huck, ‘58, describes his high school self as “drifting along”. His family did not encourage studying and could not afford college tuition. Huck began working at 12 years old, taking shifts after classes and during the summer.

His sophomore year, a friend convinced Huck to run for junior class vice president, and winning made him realize his potential.

Seeing classmates doing well in academics and extracurriculars further encouraged his ambition.

“My peers led me to believe that maybe I could do some of those things; I should put my shoulder to the grindstone, work a little harder and start studying,” Huck said. “My junior year, I did—I turned my life around.”

Later, Huck put himself through

UF undergraduate and law schools and began to practice civil trial law. In 2000, a Gables classmate of Huck’s, Tom Schultz, recommended him to apply for a federal judge position in Miami, which President Bill Clinton appointed him to. He has also shared his knowledge with others in various ways, such as by mentoring students from elementary to high school. hough difficult, uc s ourne taught him to work hard, appreciate his education and not sell himself short. He also recognizes the value of his peers and encourages others to cultivate meaningful relationships. Huck sees himself as proof that, though not everybody can be the best at something, determination can lead to a productive life.

Bill Studeman, ‘58 William “Bill” Studeman, ‘58, is a retired four-star admiral of the United States Navy and former deputy director of the CIA under Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, with two periods as acting Director of Central Intelligence. He also directed Naval Intelligence and the National Security Agency. Studeman handled Operation Desert Storm and was appointed to the Iraq Intelligence Commission, a nine-member panel surrounding the United States’ 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Studeman continues to work in government, serving on the National Advisory Board for Biosecurity, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the Defense Intelligence Agency, among others.

Despite a weighty career, Studeman

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had fun in high school. His fondest memory was a day trip to Nassau, Bahamas, with 60 classmates on a plane chartered by his father, a Pan American Airways senior at the time.

The admiral continues to name his time at Gables as a defining period in his life, recognizing the critical role that Gables’ historical principles have played in his career. The school also provided unforeseen connections during his career, namely with Former United States Attorney General Janet Reno, class of ‘56 alum.

“CGHS represented academic prowess, social richness, athletic and overall performance, all driven by superior teaching and learning, counseling and coaching,” Studeman said. “The community itself offered complementary greatness.”

Anaïs Jamali/highlights

BILL STUDEMAN

Design by Julia Volman/highlights

Paul Steinhardt, ‘70

Anaïs Jamali/highlights

PAUL STEINHARDT

Scientist and professor Paul Steinhardt, ‘70, commends Gables for its well-rounded curriculum, which allowed him to maintain writing and communication skills throughout his STEM-focused education at the California Institute of Technology and Harvard University.

“I was always a science and math-oriented person, but I had great English teachers and language teachers that really taught me how to communicate well and that was a powerful influence,” Steinhardt said.

Steinhardt is the Albert Einstein Professor of Science at Princeton University, where he works in the departments of physics and astrophysical sciences. He has developed theories on the universe’s origin, evolution and future and co-authored “Endless Universe:

Beyond the Big Bang” in 2006.

Steinhardt is also known for his discoveries involving quasicrystals, which he predicted the existence and physical properties of. In 1987, he wrote “The Physics of Quasicrystals.” By 2009, he had helped uncover the first natural quasicrystals and wrote “The Second Kind of Impossible: The Extraordinary Quest for a New Form of Matter” in 2019.

At Gables, Steinhardt participated in the literary and science clubs, among others, and rose to board positions in many of them. Gables taught him intellectual honesty and individual needs, which he looks back on in his career.

Steinhardt encourages current students to take advantage of everything the school offers.

After the ceremony, he stayed to converse with students and answer their curiousities.

Mitchel Berger, ‘70 Now a neurosurgeon, Mitchel Berger, ‘70, traces the foundations of his career back to the Gables football team. Through Gables’ sports, Berger learned about teamwork and persistence while being exposed to diversity for the first time. During his career, Berger looks back on such life lessons, recognizing the values Gables insighted in him.

He also recalls being part of an incredibly spirited school community, with school-wide pep rallies leading up to football games.

Berger notably developed a new technique for safely removing tumors in the 1980s, which doctors still use today. He is also the former Chair of Neurological Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco and former president of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Recently, President

Joe Biden appointed Berger to the threemember Presidential Cancer Panel, which directly advises Biden on the National Cancer Plan matters.

During his time at Gables, Berger experienced a competitive and enjoyable classroom environment with passionate teachers, which he partially credits with inspiring his career pursuits. Moreover, though he is grateful to be inducted into the HOF, Berger believes that the school has already given him more than enough: essential life lessons like the importance of confronting challenges head-on and recovering from failure.

“I am honored to have this, but I was honored just to go to school there,” Berger said. “That was enough of an award for me.”

Anaïs Jamali/highlights

MITCHEL BERGER

Alberta Jones

Anaïs Jamali/highlights

ALBERTA JONES

Design by Julia Volman/highlights

As one of two non-alumni inductees, Alberta Jones spent 34 years teaching at Gables from 1969 to 2003. However, Jones was more than just an English teacher—she was the co-department chair of language arts, sponsor of Anchor Service Club and Gables Teacher of the Year. She also edited for AMSCO, a textbook-publishing company, and hosted Test Of English as a Foreign Language preparation classes in the evenings, preparing non-native English speaking students at Gables to attend English-speaking universities.

Working at Gables, she improved on her communication skills by learning from students and fellow factulty members. She also recalls pivotal moments in her career, such as the time when she intervened in an

abusive situation involving a student and saw justice served.

“I sought to inspire change by attempting to ensure that the voice of everyone was heard,” Jones said.

Currently, Jones is a substitute teacher and spends time with her children, who are Gables alumni and now fellow Miami educators. She is also publishing her first book, a collection of poems about life and personal development.

“I hope that my book, and any other work that I do in the future, will help current students to see life from different perspectives, whether good, bad, happy or sad and to give the best of themselves,” Jones said.

Jones hopes to impart on current students that failure is not fatal and to never give up. h

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news

GABLES NEWS IN BRIEF

BY MARIE WEISSON, STAFF WRITER

NEW AI COURSE AT MDC Miami Dade College has decided to provide new course opportunities in artificial intelligence during the fall of 2024 for incoming students. MDC will also open new scholarships for students enrolled in classes such as Applied AI in Business. As per Miami Today, the school offers the College Credit Certificate in AI awareness which is a three-course program for students interested in AI in professional settings and projects adopting AI technology.

“As a person applying to MDC, these courses open up more opportunities for me to learn more about opportunities with AI,” senior Kassandra Canales said. h

BRIGHTLINE’S NEW ROUTE Brightline, a privately owned high-speed passenger train company, announced a new route between Miami and Orlando, which opened on Sept. 22. More than 40 million people make the trip between Miami and Orlando each year, and 90% of these commuters drive, according to The Associated Press. As per the New York Times, the trip will take three and a half hours, about 30 minutes faster than going in a car. The train company also opened new routes throughout South Florida, including stops in Downtown Miami, Aventura and Fort Lauderdale.

“I was able to travel with my family on the train,” senior Hassan Shahid said. “It was very comfortable and accessible.” h

IB EXTENDED TIME CHANGE The International Baccalaureate organization will now provide a maximum of 10% or 25% additional time. The extended time privilege has also been revoked from those with ADD or ADHD due to it hindering their performance on tests, as per an IB Community Blog post. Instead, students with attention deficit disorders are allowed to have a supervisor to keep them focused. Previously, the IB organization granted up to 50% more time for the exams for all students with demonstrated need. The first group to be affected by this change will be the class of 2025.

“If you qualify [for extended time], I think you deserve to be able to use the opportunity that you have,” junior Anthony Fajardo said. h

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Marie Weisson/highlights

Victoria Largaespada, Rosibel Garcia, Maria Rivero and Amalia Garrido celebrate their college matches through QuestBridge.

Congrats, Cavs!

Congratulations to Victoria Largaespada, Rosibel Garcia, Maria Rivero and Amalia Garrido who matched with the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Chicago and Emory University through the QuestBridge Program. Questbridge is a non-profit organization, offers selected students a full ride to the college with which they match. The organization looks for students who have demonstrated academic achievements despite their economic disparaties.

UPCOMING DATES Grad Bash

Bridge for Peace Event

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Substitute requirements lowered

MDCPS lowers substitute requirements, only requiring a GED or high school diploma, due to a teacher shortage

BY ARWEN LAW, STAFF WRITER

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N JULY 26, MIAMI-DADE beginning of the school year, the county has County Public Schools altered partnered with Kelly Education, an organization the requirements to become a meant to recruit substitute teachers across substitute teacher, making the the nation. Temporary instructors can now possession of a Graduate Equivalency Degree apply for jobs directly with Kelly Education, or a high school diploma the only educational choose which school to work at and set their requirement. This year, the demand for own flexible schedule. Moreover, the county substitute teachers has increased, inspiring this is also offering professional training sessions change. However, the new requirements have for newly hired substitute teachers, aiming raised concerns about the ability of substitutes to equip them with the necessary skills and to supervise students. knowledge to effectively manage a classroom Since the COVID-19 pandemic, and provide support to the students, according the shortage of teachers has increased, to Miami Dade College. exacerbating a long-standing national “Personally, I wouldn’t want to have deficiency of teachers. With someone who has barely the advancing teacher graduated high school to shortage, Florida had nearly take over a whole class 7,000 open teacher positions while supervising them,” I think the lowering as students prepared to return senior Amanda Perez said. to school following summer of the requirements “It practically jeopardizes break, as per Newsweek. the safety of the students of what it takes to Moreover, there have been and our well-being.” become a substitute about 200 teacher vacancies The alterations have in MDCPS since the raised numerous concerns demonstrates a beginning of the 2023-2024 hasty response to a and questions regarding school year, mentioned in the the income of substitute growing problem.

Miami Herald. teachers. Substitutes get “Substitutes are paid a fraction of the former substitute responsible for the student’s standard teacher salary, teacher safety and wellbeing,” making an average of Maxwell Wood substitute teacher Lourdes $20,000 annually if they Han said. “They need to be worked every school day. trained and educated. They Furthermore, they have need to know how the school functions and limited resources and restricted authority over what is expected.” the classroom, as per CBS News. Solutions Taking the shortage into account, the proposed by residents include raising teacher county has lowered the requirements. and substitute salaries to attract more qualified Previously, substitutes had to have a minimum candidates instead of lowering requirements. of 60 credits from an authorized college or “At the end of the day, substitutes want university with minimum grade point average a higher income for their job,” freshman of 2.5. However, the new rule deems anyone Carolina Planes said. “Paying them more for who is 18 years old and has earned a traditional their work is the solution, not lowering their high school diploma or passed the GED exam requirements.” eligible to be a substitute teacher, as per the The teacher shortage has put the county Miami Herald. in a state of obligation to hire multiple “I think the lowering of the requirements substitutes for their schools. As the county of what it takes to become a substitute copes, the lowering of requirements has demonstrates a hasty response to a growing presented questions from parents and teachers problem,” former substitute teacher Maxwell about whether substitutes are qualified for Wood said. their jobs. h Implementing the requirements in the

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Design by Divya Dave/highlights

quick facts

The President of Miami Dade College has been working with the MDCPS superintendent to create the Teacher Academy Partnership program.

Source: ABC News

School district administration across the nation expect the demand for substitute teachers to increase over the next few years.

Source: The Journalist’s Resource

The reason for teacher shortages in Florida could be due to Florida ranking in the bottom five nationally for teacher salaries and many other educational satff earning poverty wages.

Source: Florida Education Association h Complied by Divya Dave/highlights

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A better bus network

The Better Bus Network, launched on Nov. 13, is a redesign of Miami-Dade’s transit system that aims to make it more reliable

BY HAZEL GROSELL, STAFF WRITER

F

IVE YEARS AGO, THE NONprofit Transit Alliance Miami began an initiative to streamline Miami-Dade’s transit system. The organization’s persistent lobbying bore fruit in 2019 when Miami-Dade partnered with TAM to create the Better Bus Network. On Nov. 13, the network launched, eliminating stops, discontinuing lines and increasing the number of buses. The goal is to bring reliability and frequency to the county’s transit system.

“The price of having a car and paying car insurance in Miami has skyrocketed, so I would say that public transportation is probably a more affordable route for those in our community who can not or do not want to pay for a vehicle,” Patrick Curtis said.

According to Miami Today News, the county planned to implement the BBN in 2022. However, it was postponed because of the post-pandemic bus driver shortage.

Four years after COVID-19 broke headlines and two years after the network’s intended induction date, Miami-Dade enacted this program. However, this version, introduced on Nov. 13, is less impactful than the original due to the driver shortage. For some perspective, the BBN has an extra $27.5 million in the bank, as reported by Miami Today News.

“Although the new network isn’t complete, it was good for Miami-Dade to launch it because people should have access to reliable public transportation, even if improvements can still be made,” junior Melissa Sosa said.

The Miami-Dade County Ridership Technical Report illustrates that seven out

of 10 transit users take the bus daily. Thus, tackling the bus network would positively affect the city’s transit-using population. The BBN adheres to this logic, achieving results supporting that good transit benefits the economy and community.

For instance, the Miami-Dade government states that the bus network provides over 250,000 low-income residents access to

DID YOU KNOW?

The network will increase transit access to jobs, education and healthcare with better services.

Source: Miami-Dade County

frequent transit, compared to last month’s 119,000.

After discerning the ridership of previous bus lines, TAM and Miami-Dade met to eliminate idle routes while improving the quality of the busiest lines. As per the MiamiDade County’s transit guide, the BBN expanded the number of routes that run every

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Public transit increases the amount of people that can apply and possibly get a job opportunity.

Suzana Moss, sophomore

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15 minutes and discontinued bus lines. The Miami Herald reports that the BBN has also eliminated all bus routes with letter titles, favoring numerical names.

“Now that I am on the water polo team and doing conditioning, I stay longer after school more frequently,” sophomore Valeria Cifuentes said. “So, I’ve been taking the metro bus more often to get home. In the past, I would have to wait 20 to 25 minutes for the bus to come, but now I only wait 10 minutes.

Sometimes, the bus is already there when I get off the Metrorail.”

As per the Miami Herald, approximately 150,000 more jobs are within walking distance of frequent transit services on weekdays, representing a 14% increase. This growth shows that dependable public transit increases the opportunities for Miami-Dade residents.

On the contrary, transit riders struggle in areas where the BBN has discontinued the nearest bus routes. However, a new rider service, MetroConnect, has been crafted to address this issue. MetroConnect transports riders in unserviced pockets to public transit stations, WLRN reports. The distinct blue and green fleet of vehicles can be found on the streets of Miami, ferrying transit users free of charge from now on.

Although Miami-Dade finally instated the BBN, the network has yet to achieve the full scope of the vision TAM sought.

Moving forward, users hope that the county will strengthen the weaknesses of today’s vastly improved transit system, lengthening service hours for an even more connected tomorrow. h

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I would be willing to walk longer to go to the bus stop if it came faster and was more wellmaintained.

Lucas Nuñez, junior

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Design by Divya Dave/highlights

MDCPS mental health budget

MDCPS approves a budget of $7 billion and details their focus on mental health services in all schools for the 2023-24 year

BY OLIVIA SIMON, STAFF WRITER

I

Other Licensed Mental

School Counselors

Palm Beach Health Providers Miami-Dade N 2023, THE FLORIDA County County Department of Education is allocating over $17 million to 1:704 1 : 216 10,040,099 School Social School mental health assistance in Miami- Psychologists Workers 1 : 435 Dade County Public Schools through the 17,729,985 Department of Mental Health Services.

This department was created to expand 10,040,099 Orange school-based mental health resources, County connect students to needed resources and 13,292,890 train staff in detecting and responding to 11,789,171 Broward mental health issues.

Palm Beach County Their goal is to provide services that County address any mental health challenges and prevent future ones from arising, as per The distribution of money, in dollars, the A ratio of mental health staff to students MDCPS Mental Health Services. The largest Florida counties have allocated in Miami-Dade County schools. department has partnered with community toward mental health in schools.

Source: Florida Department of agencies, led initiatives for student Source: Florida Department of Education Education mental wellness and implemented new professional development courses for staff.

“As someone who has kids that have 2023-2024

1:1307

84%

2021-2022

Total budget for mental health assistance in Miami-Dade County from 2020-2024 in millions of U.S. dollars.

Source: Florida Department of Education

Group-based Intervention

External Referrals

$17,729,985

$15,691,092

$13,465,847

gone to school through the pandemic, I believe that investing in mental health materials for our students now is more crucial than ever before,” Vice Chair of the Miami-Dade County School Board Danny Espino said. “The reality is that our kids are at their best when their minds are absolutely strong.”

MDCPS also uses a three-tier pyramid detailing different levels of assistance to improve mental health. The first tier includes universal and preventative measures; the second tier provides supplemental material for at-risk kids; and the third tier is made up of individualized and intensive care, as per the Florida Department of Education. h

$11,311,249

Source: Miami New Times

66% 57%

Case Management

2020-2021

Individual-based Intervention

Miami-Dade County has approved the formation of a Mental Health Advisory Board to help patients with mental health illnesses.

70%

2022-2023

DID YOU KNOW?

Mental health services offered by public schools during the 2021-2022 year.

Source: Kaiser Family Foundation

National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (Call or Text) Design by Divya Dave/highlights

news

11

Ethics of family channels students Care must be taken to protect the wellspeak up being of children in family influencing COMMENTARY BY EMILY KARDJIAN, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Em ily

Ka r

lights

“

It’s exploitative to use children for profit. It puts them in uncomfortable situations and stops them from developing correctly.

Avani Tembe, senior ian dj

gh /hi

lights

“

ar

intentions. As influencers have become aware of this, some creators are hiding their childrens’ faces or removing them off their accounts entirely. For example, Bobbi Althoff is a creator with over seven million followers who no longer shows her child online to maintain privacy, according to Fortune.

Child actors, like their influencer counterparts, often generate a large income and become instantly recognizable through their work. However, while child actors have had laws passed nationally to protect their income and safety, young influencers lack protections.

According to CNN, Illinois passed a bill in August meant to protect child influencers.

The first of its kind, it will require parents to set aside a percentage of money earned through content into trust funds for their children, ensuring compensation for their work. Though a step in the right direction, more must be done to ensure child influencers’ protection nationwide.

Alongside the shortcomings of parents and a lack of legislation, some accountability must be held by viewers who interact with this content. Viewers should be mindful of the media they consume, as it is their likes and follows that allow family influencers to make money and encourage them to continue this cycle of child exploitation for a profit. h

h /hig

Emi ly K

W

H E N 41-yearo l d YouTuber Ruby Franke was arrested in August, millions of her family’s loyal fans were left shocked. The Franke family’s wholesome online persona on the “8 Passengers” channel made Franke’s arrest all the more jarring, as she was detained on six counts of aggravated child abuse, as per the New York Times. Though a surprise to many, the “8 Passengers’’ case is far from the only example of harm being inflicted on child influencers.

From as young as birth, child influencers are used for monetary purposes, being treated as an investment that can provide their parents with lucrative returns. According to the Washington Post, successful kid influencers may make upwards of $20 million annually.

This profit potential encourages parents’ exploitation of minors, while failing to account for their safety and wellbeing.

“When parents put their kids on the Internet, they’re stopping them from having a normal childhood and growing up normally,” senior Anthony Rolesfotso said.

Beyond overworking and directly harming their children, these parents are also exposing them to strangers who may have less-than-innocent

ian dj

“

C h i l d influencers shouldnt have to work for their parents without any pay or reward.

Cynthia Cruz, junior

“

h

12 opinion

Design GeorgiaRau/highlights Rau/ highlights Design by by Georgia

Mr. Coral Gables controversy

As diversity grows more and more vital to Gables, students wonder if Mr. Coral Gables should include non-male students COMMENTARY BY LILY GORON, STAFF WRITER

A

STAPLE OF the Gables experience, the annual Mr. Coral Gables pageant is anxiously anticipated by students leading up to the December show.

The show consists of a group of select male upperclassmen, each representing a club or organization, who show their talents in hopes of being crowned the year’s Mr. Coral Gables. Some have called for the performance to expand beyond just male contestants.

However, the possibility of shifting to a gender-neutral show would change the concept entirely, losing the unique qualities that make the show so enjoyable.

“I think the show is very important for school morale as it entertains students and keeps them in school,” senior Marla Aman said.

While this idea has some merit, it would defeat the pageant’s essential purpose, which is portraying the traditional beauty pageant satirically. For years, people competing in beauty pageants and other advocates have been trying to steer away from what can be a harmful environment that may breed body dysmorphia, eating disorders and other mental health problems, according to the Lancaster Online Journal. Mr. Coral Gables provides a comedic alternative made to highlight previous issues seen in pageants and turning them into an amusing and harmless show.

Beauty pageants were created to shape women into societal standards and have been considered to be extremely sexist, according to the University Of New Hampshire Scholar’s repository. Women are therefore always

“

Beauty pageants have shown repetitively that they tend to be very dramatic and more toxic than the entertaining school activities that parallel them, such as Mr. Coral Gables.

Soleil Pazos, junior

comparing themselves and not accepting their true beauty because they’ve been told to focus on creating a better image of themselves, according to the New York Times Magazine.

“Beauty pageants have shown repetitively that they tend to be very dramatic and more

toxic than the entertaining school activities that parallel them, such as Mr Coral Gables,” junior Soleil Pazos said.

Keeping a male-oriented show allows for a fun dynamic between the participants and maintains the original feel of the show. The present all-male beauty competition brings a goofy energy by being ironic from what were usually female only pageants. This consecutively has students excited to go to the shows.

Mr. Coral Gables is one of many important school traditions that have been in place for a long time. Adding on to them but still keeping them close to the original design from when they were first created allows them to evolve.

However, changing them into a whole other show defeats the purpose and the tradition originally created. They contribute to a sense of integrity as well as something to look forward to every year.

“By changing it, you would have to change the name and therefore change the whole tradition of Mr. Coral Gables itself,” sophomore and Cavboy, Rafael Hanono said.

Allowing for a gender-neutral Mr. Coral Gables or Cavman would create more problems than foster a sense of tradition and community within the school. The intent of Mr. Coral Gables is to create an interesting and unique twist on traditional pageants by only allowing male students to join. This would be lost if the pageant was expanded to include non-male contestants. h

opposable thumbs iPhone Alarms

Kentucky Derby

$3 Bag of Chips

“They awaken a visceral fear inside of me.”

“NASCAR for the Amish.”

“I thought air was free?”

-Alyssa Dopico Online Editor

-Lily Goron, Staff Writer

-Emilia Kohnstamm, Staff Writer

Design by Ava Volman/highlights

opinion

13

The Underline: Miami’s steps towards envi The city of initiatives that

Miami paves pose to

the way for a sus combat environmenta

COMMENTARY BY ISABELA DUARTE, STAFF WRITER

F

L O R I D A Power and Light and MiamiDade County are proactively targeting the concern about the world’s current climate crises and their consequences in Miami through innovation. Improvement in infrastructure has been prevalent throughout the city. Commitment to tackling the issues of climate change like the increased danger of natural disasters and the loss of biodiversity indicates a hopeful future for Miami.

As a result, these communities have become more sustainable. Cars have been the most convenient form of transportation for a long time in urban areas. Apart from the fact that they are not accessible to all, they are significant sources of outdoor carbon monoxide, which pollutes the air and affects greenhouse gases linked to climate change and global warming. With the renovation of the areas surrounding the metro, more sustainable forms of transportation such as walking and public transportation are promoted.

The Underline is one project that adds tremendous value to the city. It extends 10.5 miles and serves as a linear park, urban trail and public art exhibition. The project was

taken up by Miami-Dade County and starts south underneath the Metrorail through Brickell, Coral Gables and Kendall, ending at the Dadeland South station. The Underline intends to turn otherwise unused city spaces into valuable public places, which is a step forward for locals. The project divides itself into three phases, the first of which is currently operating, having opened in February 2021.

Named “Brickell Backyard,” this phase is half of a mile long, spanning from Miami River to Coral Way. The area is organized in “rooms,” all serving niche purposes to locals and visitors. The River Room, for example, includes a butterfly garden and a dog-friendly area. Another room, the Urban Gym, focuses on physical activities and includes a basketball court and mini-pitch soccer among other features. Lastly, The Promenade includes a path dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists.

Additionally, it includes below-ground drainage that will help with stormwater flooding and runoff, as reported by the project’s official informational website. This feature shows the city’s willingness to adapt to prevalent issues in the area, such as stormwater flooding and runoff, by integrating innovative solutions into urban development.

Considering the county’s recent issues with flooding due to strong and consistent rain, the below-ground drainage is an important addition to the community. Furthermore, the Underline brings a new space to protect the habitat while providing another option for safe transportation.

“One of the key drivers of this project is creating an environment where it is safe for people to walk and bike. Additionally for kids to bike to school, walk to school and for the elderly to be out in their community being able to connect to other neighborhoods,” founder of the Underline Meg Daly said in an interview with the University of Maimi.

Nature provides numerous benefits to the community through the project’s Phase 2 construction, which includes amenity areas like the Hammock Playground, Vizcaya Station Plaza and the Rain Garden. These spaces offer several advantages to the community, enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life. By creating a visually pleasing environment, increasing sustainability and access to green spaces creating a connection with nature becomes easier.

“These changes will positively impact not only our wildlife but our quality of life as it’s beneficial to our mental health to live in

Courtesy of Natalia Clement

Courtesy of Natalia Clement

BEFORE

RENOVATION:

Underneath the metrorail prior to the installation of the Underline.

14 opinion

GROUNDBREAKING:

The groundbreaking of the second phase of the Underline project.

Design by Ava Volman/highlights

ironmental progress

stainable future with a al issues within the a vibrant and safe environment,” sophomore Abril Lettieres said.

The project plans to restore Pine Rockland, Hardwood Hammock, Pollinator and Wet Prairie ecosystems. They are relocating trees and adding 100,000 native plants and trees to attract butterflies, bees and birds. Trash and recycling receptacles will be seen throughout the corridor.

This is a major step forward for the city’s sustainable development. With crosswalks and places to perform physical activities, the project encourages locals to consider walking as a transportation method.

Making recycling and trash bins more accessible to passersby will also discourage littering and encourage recycling. With these considerations, the city is clearly making necessary changes to prioritize the health of the environment.

Extending for slightly over seven miles, Phase Three is the longest of the phases.

The details about the amenities of the area are still in discussion. Despite this, the goals of the area are clear. This phase plans to continue with Phase Two’s goals of restoring ecosystems and improving infrastructure to help iami combat flooding as implied by their drainage system.

advertisement

Design by Ava Volman/highlights

variety of community

Miami looks to improve its environmental impact by not only creating new construction but also improving existing infrastructure. Safety measures are currently being implemented on the Rickenbacker Causeway to keep ensure cyclist and pedestrian safety.

One of these measures is changing the entrance to Hobie Beach Park so cyclists can cross the entrance point without the hassle of upcoming traffic. efore these updates, the safety and convenience of those who cycled or exercised along the bridge were not prioritized. Now, they can perform their preferred activities without being on the constant loo out for traffic. This encourages locals to engage in cycling or exercising along the bridge and creates a healthier community.

“If we want the city to be sustainable for a longer period, it will take a long-term view,” former Project Green supervisor Yvette Lebreve said. “We have seen this succeed in other countries, so why don’t we have that view?”

With all these changes throughout different areas, the city is evolving towards an eco-friendly future for the communities and ecosystems of Miami. h

AVA’S ANTICS An ode to being a Cavalier COMMENTARY BY AVA VOLMAN, OPINION EDITOR

As someone who has only spent three years of their high school experience as a proud Cavalier, I feel I have a different perspective from the rest of my fellow Gable-ians. While it might be easy to complain about dirty bathrooms or --, for me, every piece of Gables holds something special.

My former high school was a great place, don’t get me wrong, but Gables has a different sense of spirit that every other school lacks. Cavalier pride is a real thing, showing its colors during every pep rally and home game. Every student is working to support each other and create the best experience possible, surrounded by peers who share the same endless enthusiasm for their school. Spirit week is never lackluster, as teachers and students alike go all out in their most innovative costuming and Gables gear. Gables harbors an unmatched passion for unabashedly participating in high school traditions, something I have come to deeply appreciate.

When it really comes down to it, the element that makes Gables truly special is the people who inhabit it. The faculty and staff are overwhelmingly supportive, always at the ready to encourage students to pursue their future, no matter what it may hold. The student body is infused with Cavalier pride, with each senior night featuring a sea of black and red to cheer on fellow students. There is not an empty seat at the Gablette’s annual Fall Frolics or the Mr. Coral Gables pageant. Ultimately, it is the students who bring out the parts of Gables that sets it above the rest.

So the next time you complain that a pep rally is lame, or think that the hallway decorations are cheesy, remember that not every student has the privelege to e perience the same av pride that fills the hallways at Gables. h

opinion

15

TWO VIEWS: Beyond the bubble sheets: Th ACT and SAT standardized from the newly introduced

testing, exams meant to Classical Learning Test

COMMENTARY BY JULIA VOLMAN, FEATURES EDITOR

J

OINING THE longstanding ACT and SAT standardized tests, the Classic Learning Test is anything but standard. Introduced in 2015, this exam omits many positive aspects that make the ACT and SAT a good fit to compare college applicants and test students’ aptitude.

This new form of assessment, similar to the SAT and ACT, is designed to assess higher education readiness while also aiming to offer a different experience than these traditional exams. The test is offered on paper as well as online, is scored on a scale of 120 points and includes an optional essay and three sections: verbal reasoning, grammar and quantitative reasoning.

These differences from the SAT or ACT give students options to customize their testing experience to what fits their needs, though problems begin to arise when examining the content of this novel exam.

While the SAT and ACT focus on the general curriculums taught to students in a standard learning environment, the CLT emphasizes knowledge of the “classical” curriculum, according to the official CLT exam webpage. This type of education focuses on the liberal arts and is predominantly taught in charter and liberal arts schools. Due to this emphasis, the CLT does not censor passages that are religious or philosophical in nature, though they claim to not be religiously or politically affiliated, as stated by the official CLT exam webpage. This type of content creates an unfair advantage for students in private or charter institutions that are taught religious information and a Western viewpoint in a classical curriculum.

“Personally, I don’t feel my education nor my beliefs align with the content on the CLT, so chances are I’ll stay with the SAT and ACT,” junior Angelina Morffi said.

Conversely, the more widely recognized

NO

16 opinion

ACT test serves as a gauge of high school curriculum knowledge, according to the official ACT website. oth the ACT and SAT tests contain content based on a traditional curriculum and general high school level knowledge, creating a level playing field for all students taking the test nationwide.

This movement to include the CLT in standardized testing alongside the ACT and SAT is rooted in Floridian policymakers’ mission to reshape the education system.

Rather than continuing to use tried and true exams that have endured thousands of changes and been virtually perfected, Floridian policymakers opt for the CLT: a test that focuses on the Western and Christian view of education.

This test is only accepted in approximately 250 schools across the country and abroad, many of which are in Florida, as all public institutions in the state accept the exam in their application process. Along with the University System of Florida voting to approve the CLT in September, other laws have been passed by the state to change the education system to reflect these views, such as restricting public school instruction on topics of race, gender identity and sexual orientation.

“I would encourage students to take either the SAT or the ACT because colleges have been using them for years,” College Assistance Program Advisor Sofia Sanz De Acedo said. “[The SAT and ACT] are considered at universities across the country, not just in the state of Florida.”

The ACT and SAT have thoroughly proven their superiority to the CLT with their unbiased core content that makes the exam accessible to any and all students. Standardized exams being an element of the college application process makes the selectivity of the CLT a hindrance. Catering to a certain type of student negatively impacts the potential of those who have received a traditional education and are attempting to prove their knowledge and aptitude to higher-level institutions.

Though novel and different from what students are used to, the CLT is pushing standardized testing in the wrong direction. h

SAT The exam costs

59 The SAT focuses on the core curriculum

The exam lasts

3

hours

Design by Ava Volman/highlights

he SAT and ACT vs the CLT

o

gauge students’ college readiness, has competition (CLT) – but is this novel exam more beneficial?

COMMENTARY BY DIVYA DAVE, NEWS EDITOR

A CLT The exam costs

60 The CLT focuses on the classical curriculum

The exam lasts

2 Design by Ava Volman/highlights

hours

LTHOUGH THE SAT AND ACT have long dominated the standardized test playing field, the Classic Learning Test is not far behind. Unlike the SAT and ACT, the CLT believes that students will benefit from an education embedded in the knowledge of the past. Thus, the CLT outshines the dated standardized tests, as it allows students to engage with content and draw real-world applications.

Launched in 2015, the CLT is known for being based on a classical education model, meaning it teaches students to think and learn for themselves rather than asking questions with no real-world meaning. The CLT, SAT and ACT test fundamental skills and serve to determine college readiness, as per Prep Scholar.

However, the CLT differs by providing students with unique Western texts, featuring renowned names like Plato, Shakespeare and Martin Luther King Jr. In the English portion, students will need to analyze the works of these famous thinkers and not only gain a historical understanding but also the knowledge to make them informed citizens.

Meanwhile, the math portion tests a student’s ability to access information and draw conclusions about real situations, as per an official document produced by the CLT. “Understanding or having knowledge of the past would be beneficial by allowing us to grow from our mistakes, provide insight for the future and allow us to have a more in-depth cultural understanding of the world around us,” junior Keith Hernandez said.

The primary benefit of this exam is that it caters to students interested in literature, philosophy and the liberal arts, thus allowing students with similar interests to showcase their talents, which may otherwise be overlooked in other standardized exams.

Since this exam is offered in the United States, specifically Florida, the Western focus makes this exam ideal for most students.

Although it is important for students to be immersed in topics beyond their geographical region, having an exam that focuses on the

content they have already been exposed to can be beneficial and allow them to think in the context of their own world. Unlike the SAT or ACT, which creates a test-centric educational world and propagates pure memorization of information, the CLT wants students to gain a genuine appreciation for learning.

Another advantage the CLT holds over the SAT and ACT is timing. Rather than a tiring three-hour and 15-minute exam, the CLT is only two hours long. This proves to be beneficial to students, as it can reduce students’ testing fatigue, thus allowing for greater focus on the exam and results being more representative of their skills, according to the American Psychological Association.

Furthermore, the CLT brings out the creativity within students. Rather than a traditional fillin-the-bubble test, this new exam is flexible.

With a wide range of free-response questions and an optional essay portion, the CLT is designed to adjust to the needs of every student.

Additionally, the CLT is sympathetic towards students with economic disparities.

This exam levels the playing field by providing free test preparation materials, as per the official CLT website. The CLT ensures that every student has a fair chance to excel on the exam.

“Understanding the past allows us to learn from historical events, gain cultural knowledge and develop a broader perspective on the world,” sophomore Selena Feal said.

In the realm of standardized exams, the CLT is a superior alternative to the SAT and ACT. The content and format of the exam offer a more personalized experience for students and offers more real-world applications of the material. Moreover, it promotes accessibility for all students. The CLT may be the key to unlocking a brighter future in education. h

YES

opinion

17

sports

SPORTS BRIEFS

BY JUAN CHAVEZ, STAFF WRITER

Courtesy of Inside the Games

upcoming events

Courtesy of CNN

Feb. 2

Feb. 2

Water Polo tournament @ MAST

Girls varsity basketball game @ Sunset High

Feb. 6

Feb. 8

Boys and girls tennis match vs. Hialeah

Boys and girls tennis match vs. Cutler Bay

New marathon world record Competing in his third-ever marathon, 23-year-old long-distance runner Kelvin Kiptum broke the marathon world record in the Chicago Marathon by 34 seconds, with a time of 2:00:35. The previous record of 2:01:09 was set a little over a year ago

by Kenyan long-distance runner Eliud Kipchoge in the Berlin Marathon.

During the race, Kiptum ran a negative split, meaning he ran the second half of the race faster than the first.

“At this rate, I believe that Kiptum will beat his own record and be the first person to reach the under-twohour marathon, but it is achievable by any competitive runner,” senior crosscountry runner Veronica Montalvo said.

Kiptum intends to break his record at the Olympics. Though an undertwo-hour marathon has been achieved unofficially with pacers by Kipchoge, the official title for this achievement is still up for grabs for Kiptum and other runners in future events. h

athlete spotlight Courtesy of Prudence Truchot

Miami Dolphins’ record speed Kicking off the NFL season, the Miami Dolphins have been capitalizing on their biggest advantage: speed. On offense, the Dolphins have a lineup of speedy running backs and wide receivers, including Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and Raheem Mostert.

These players allow the Dolphins to cover the field and to earn their points not through physical power, but through swift and quick downs.

“The speed of the Dolphins players will definitely earn us

18 sports

points to win big games, especially with a player like Tyreek Hill,” sophomore Andres Amador said.

The Dolphins have the five fastest recorded speeds by a ball carrier in the NFL this season: two by De’Von Achane, two by Hill and one by Mostert. Per Next Gen Stats, Achane is the fastest player in the NFL with a maximum speed of 21.93 miles per hour. He is followed by Tyreek Hill at 21.66 miles per hour and Raheem Mostert at 21.52 miles per hour. h

Prudence Truchot, sophomore Sport: Soccer Accomplishments:

Truchot received her first call up to the French U16 National team at 15 years old as an offensive midfielder. She was also offered an official spnsorship from Nike and is youth team captain of FC Miami City.

The ripoff playoffs

With its debut on the courts, the NBA’s in-season tournament creates controversy for its new business venture COMMENTARY BY SANTIAGO GIRALDO, CO-ONLINE EDITOR

T

HE NBA recently held its in-season tournament, and many hold polarizing views regarding its existence. While there may be some points to highlight as to why it should not exist, it is here to stay, and the NBA should do everything in its power to improve it.

On July 8, 2023, the NBA announced it would create the in-season tournament during its regular season. According to the NBA, the tournament comprises the league’s 30 teams divided by East and West geographical regions. Following each team’s regional characterization, the teams would face each other in knockout rounds until the remaining two teams would be the winners of the eastern and western groups. They would then play each other, with the winning team receiving $500,000 for every player on the team.

Though this may seem standard for a national tournament, the way it was executed was not. If the NBA wants to maintain the tournament, as they intend to, as stated in CBS Sports, many believe that they should implement changes to make the tournament an overall better experience for everyone involved.

The NBA made this tournament to increase their off-season profits. In return, they have received the results they desired.

According to ESPN News, fan viewership has increased and people seem more engaged with basketball during the low viewership months of November and December, during which stakes are generally low. The tournament set-

“

Honestly, I do not see the point of its existence. I think the tournament wastes everyone’s time and money.

Nehemiah Daniels, junior

up disrupted this trend and led to frustrating nuisances for players and fans alike.

“Honestly, I do not see the point of its existence. I think the tournament wastes everyone’s time and money,” said junior varsity basketball player Nehemiah Daniels.

In the 2023 NBA in-season tournament, unlike the regular season where a one-point victory suffices, teams needed substantial point differentials to advance. This shift

heightened the significance of the margin of victory, diverging from the typical format and impacting team strategies in pursuit of tournament success.

This situation caused discomfort among coaches. Traditionally, teams tend to bench their best players during blowout victories as they’re already guaranteed to win. However, due to the emphasis on achieving high-point differentials, coaches now felt compelled to keep their star players on the court to secure the necessary points, raising concerns about potential risks, as explained by Sports Illustrated when the Chicago Bulls coach worried about the safety of his star player Jayson Tatum in such a scenario.

Additionally, the tournament seems like a money grab by the NBA and a waste of time for fans and players alike. While the NBA achieved higher views, many of their games coincided with NFL games, making their initiative fall short as fans chose to watch football over basketball, reported Yahoo Sports.

The NBA should enhance its tournament format by prioritizing player safety with new courts and eliminating the points differential system. Scheduling games on non-conflicting days with NFL games would enable fans to enjoy both sports simultaneously, improving the in-season tournament experience for players and fans. h

by the numbers

20%

increase in local viewership for groupplay games from last November.

18,206

fans, on average, attended each tournament game in November, setting a record.

$500,000 cash prize for each player on the winning team of the in-season tournament.

Source: Sports Illustrated Design by Alexander Brazda/highlights

sports

19

Swiftie Night Football

Taylor Swift’s recent appearances at NFL star Travis Kelce’s games has diverted attention away from the game COMMENTARY BY ALEXANDRA FELS, STAFF WRITER

A

S THE b u d d i n g relationship between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs star tight end, slowly emerged, supporters from both sides have exaggerated Swift’s impact on the NFL in varying ways. Though the inclusivity has proven fruitful for some fans and the NFL, Swift should remain out of the NFL’s spotlight.

After Swift’s continuous appearances at Kelce’s games, avid football fans fear that her presence will take away from the importance of the game as the NFL profits off the media attention. With an increased number of women spectators, this newfound romance is being perceived as an inclusive push for diversity in the NFL fanbase. Nevertheless, some male fans are blaming Swift for the change in the dynamics of the game.

After a few months of dating, Swift and Kelce fled in their getaway car following Swift’s controversial debut at his game against the Chicago Bears. The opposite of a subtle debut, Swift was broadcasted on a 60-foot jumbotron and 24 million TVs globally at Arrowhead Stadium with Kelce’s mother Following Swift’s first appearance, the NFL’s official accounts have taken advantage of the celebrity relationship, creating a Swift-centric platform by posting pictures of her at games. On their X and TikTok accounts, the NFL changed its biography to reflect Swift’s attendance at the game, stating “The Chiefs are 2-0 as Swifties.” On X, the league changed its biography to “NFL (Taylor’s Version),” a reference to Swift’s release of her old records under her name instead of her former recording company.

The NFL is attempting to profit as much as it can from Swift by making references to her not only on its social media but during games as well. During Chiefs games, the NFL has added a scoreboard that reads points “With Taylor Swift in Attendance” and “Without Taylor Swift in Attendance.” With the NFL increasingly spotlighting Swift instead of the

20 sports

players themselves, it insinuates that Swift, rather than Kelce’s genuine talent and hard work, is responsible for his success.

“The NFL is unnecessarily using Swift as a public relations stunt in order to promote their game and get more attention and viewers,” sophomore Orly Schoolman said.

It is beneficial for the team, but it is making it less about football and more about Taylor.”

Despite the criticism, the NFL’s fascination with Swift might just be an attempt at reforming the traditional gender dynamics within the sport. As a realm historically dominated by men, the NFL’s celebration of Swift’s fandom is seemingly an attempt to dismantle long-held notions that football is not just for the burly “bros” chugging beer and grunting over touchdowns.

“The NFL is definitely taking advantage of Swift, but that’s just how business is,” senior football player Angel Obando said. “Taylor Swift is a big name so of course they are going to try to take advantage of that.”

Suddenly, there is a growing legion of Swifties who are flipping channels from Swift documentaries to games on ESPN, all in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the pop sensation cheering on the football player.

However, due to general stigmas against women watching sports such as football, gender biases have been made worse in some respects. The men in the stands now claim that women are only interested in football to catch a peek of Taylor or ogle at the players.

“Swift dating a football player just gives boys yet another excuse to claim girls only watch football for something other than the actual sport,” senior Azahara Buces said.

While the NFL basks in the glow of Swift’s star power, some voices raise concerns about the sanctity of the game. It is crucial to remember that relationships, like football, are best enjoyed with a healthy dose of respect and privacy. Perhaps it is time for the NFL to call timeout on Swiftie Night Football and return the focus to where it rightfully belongs – the game. h

Design by Alexander Brazda/highlights

Football seniors’ final ride

Gables celebrated the football and cheerleading senior nights on Nov. 3 in the season’s final game against Southwest

BY MANUEL ESPINOZA, CONTENT EDITOR

S

TRONG GUSTS OF WIND AND chilling breezes fill the air as the Gables crowd awaits the arrival of the football and cheer teams. On Nov. 3, both teams held their senior nights in Tropical Park to celebrate the last football game of the season. Coming in with the mindset of honoring the seniors, they were one step closer to ending the season on a great note, with a win against the Southwest Eagles.

With four straight wins coming into senior night, Gables made every practice before this game count.

“I definitely think we can win against Southwest. We’ve worked on our offensive scheme and defensive scheme, which helps us lock in on both sides of the ball and play our best football,” senior Andreus Rios said.

As quarterback of the football team, Rios reminisced on his time on the team since his freshman year and has developed an appreciation for the teammates he has grown up with over the last four years.

The night started with players and cheerleaders from the class of 2024 lining up with their families, ready to walk together under the stadium lights for the final time. The announcers introduced the football players and cheerleaders by name along with the family members joining them. Many of them felt an exhilarating, yet emotional thrill as they viewed their senior posters on the wall.

During the first quarter, the Cavaliers led strong offensive drives as they proceeded to take the lead, with their first touchdown and

“

I definitely think we can win against Southwest. We’ve worked on our offensive and defensive scheme, which helps us lock in on both sides of the ball and play our best football.

Andreus Rios, senior

extra point putting them 7 points ahead. Later, they continued to edge out the Eagles and scored a second touchdown, increasing the lead to 14-0.

In the second quarter, however, the Eagles

MARCHING DOWN: Senior Carolina Martinez walks down the field with her parents as she is celebrated on senior night.

scored their first touchdown, putting them on the board behind the Cavaliers. They later scored another, tying the teams at 14-14. Once the third quarter began, the Cavaliers were looking to step up their game as the Eagles’ offensive lineup continuously pushed through the Cavalier’s defense, taking the lead when they scored another touchdown.

Meanwhile, the cheer team was entertaining the crowd and helping them maintain high hopes, with the senior cheerleaders chanting their many Gables-related football sayings for the last time this year. Before the fourth quarter, the cheerleaders threw shirts to the stands for fans to catch and show off their Gables pride for future events.

As the game was coming to a close, it seemed like the Cavaliers were a long shot from coming back and winning the game.

However, with 12 minutes left on the clock, the Cavaliers scored a third touchdown and tied the game. Near the end, they were able to score additional bonus points, placing them at 24-20, back in the lead. As the clock ran down to zero, the Cavaliers took home the victory.

By 10 p.m., there were emotional speeches from the football seniors to the rest of the football team, while the cheer team had given their final post-game hugs on the football field.

As cars began to leave the parking lot, Gables was able to celebrate a senior night win in the books. h

LINING UP : Senior Angel Obando lines up for the next play alongside his teammates following a successful defensive stop.

Isabela Duarte/highlights

sports

21

Gymnastics reaches new heights

Rebecca Staskin ranks highly in national gymastics competitions and prepares to compete internationally

BY WILLIAM HARDIE, STAFF WRITER

J

UGGLING A FULL ACADEMIC schedule with the four major disciplines of gymnastics: vault, uneven bars, beam and floor is a daily occurrence for freshman Rebecca Staskin. Committed to gymnastics for upwards of 10 years, Statskin qualified for the Florida State Team in 2021, and is now preparing for a tournament in the Bahamas.

Growing up, Staskin was always a natural dancer. Since she was little, she would play music and dance around her house. One night, a friend of her mothers noticed her love and talent for the sport, leading her to suggest gymnastics. The friend had a daughter that was doing gymnastics and claims that her daughter loved it, leading Staskin’s mother to sign her up for lessons almost immediately.

Staskin quickly fell in love with the sport, and eventually would devote all of her time to it. Staskin has plans to pursue her gymnastic career as a collegiate athlete at her dream school, the University of California, Los Angeles. She wishes to keep her sport close to her in her future career as a gymnastics instructor. By maintaining the necessary skills and drive of a gymnast, Staskin hopes to instill her love for the sport in generations to come.

Spending over 15 hours a week practicing, Courtesy of Rebecca Staskin

Staskin is limited on time to complete her school work, let alone other extracurricular activities. Always having been used to a stressful and packed schedule as she took both dance and gymnastic classes when she was younger, Staskin knows how to manage her time wisely.

“I am honored to coach an athlete like Rebecca,” coach Nicola Pappas said. “She is not only a dedicated leader within her team, but also a role model and is extremely loved by all of our younger athletes.”

She wants to join the Gables cheer teams she thinks it will be a valuable experience for her, but she just cannot find the time between her gymnastics practices and her homework.

Competing at a regional, national and soon international level, Staskin is under a lot of pressure.

I n previous seasons, she h a s

participated in competitions in Dallas, Texas, and Foley, Alabama. Staskin has traveled the United States to stay committed to her sport.

With an upcoming gymnastics meet taking place in the Bahamas in December, she is excited to participate in her first international competition.

In front of as many as 500 people, Staskin still manages to keep nerves at bay. Going to both state and regional competitions each season, she has received a multitude of awards. In 2021, Staskin qualified for the Florida State Team, which is composed of the top eight gymnasts in Florida. She placed third out of 686 gymnasts, winning first place in all events for her age group. She later represented Florida at the regional championships, where she placed first in both the bars and beam disciplines. Furthermore, she qualified for the same regional competition in the 2022 season, again being named the Regional Champion in bars, beam and all around first in her age group.

“They [my family] are my entire support system, and without them I know I would n o t be the athlete I am now,” Staskin said.

W h i l e traveling around the country, Staskin has always had her family to support her. Her mother, father and sister are cheering on the sidelines, creating a steady stock of fans. This constant support system has given her the opportunity to be a better athlete. h

Courtesy of Rebecca Staskin

Courtesy of Rebecca Staskin

SWINGING UP: Staskin completes a rotation on the uneven bars and holds herself up on the beam as she walks along it. These are just two of her many competitions.

22 sports

Design by Alexander Brazda/highlights

the scene

Brunch up top

Combining classic Spanish seafood dishes with modern tastes, Level 6 is able to attract all to their rooftop restaurant

BY NATALIA PAVON, STAFF WRITER

F

OOD LOVERS AND ANY hungry patron alike go to restaurants expecting the best service and satisfying meals, which they can find at Level 6. Their fresh seafood and produce brings the twist they need to find uniqueness in the restaurants in Coconut Grove.

Level 6 places lots of focus on its renowned service, with servers making sure that the service given to customers is nothing but the best. Servers greet the table with a variety of options of “tapas,” or appetizers, ranging from olives, to chicken croquettes, to octopus.

Customers are then introduced to larger sharing plates to really tie in the experience of enjoying this beautiful restaurant with loved ones.

While the restaurant’s main focus is Spanish dishes, customers at Level 6 get to choose from a variety of fine dining options.

They get to enjoy plates such as ceviche, pan con tomate and even their unique zucchini flowers. The guests also get to choose their own level of dining experience, with foods ranging from $10 to $80 depending on what meals they choose to indulge in. Most appetizers meet the satisfaction of their customers as the plates take a turn on seafood and add a hint of Spanish culture.

Located six floors above ground, Ink Entertainment’s restaurant offers all meals from brunch to dinner with a wonderful experience mixing the indoors and outdoors. A rooftop oasis is not the only astounding aspect that customers get to experience, as there is also the full experience of Spanish culture with weekend music events, glass walls with unique art displays and an environment of welcoming service.

Level 6 has also become a new and focused location for people to take pictures because of its impeccable scenery. The tables and seating of this restaurant are arranged with cozy inspiration. Guests get to enjoy their meals while sitting on lounge chairs surrounded by decor like house plants and dimmed lights to ensure that they feel right at home. On the opposite side of the amazing view of Coconut Design by Carolina Castro/highlights

Grove, there is a wall of a beautiful abstract DJ set by “Carmelinda” and a special menu art display where there are different colored that included dishes like yellow gazpacho, panels with different texturing on it. The consisting of Maine lobster, avocado and picture-perfect spot is discovered when guests toasted brioche. walk toward an entrance to a patio covered in Inspired by Spanish dishes with their own turf. Many guests’ photos taken here display luxurious twists, Level 6 is able to combine the breathtaking views of the Miami sky and beloved classics with modern tastes. Fresh its city life no matter the time. seafood and beautiful views draws patrons “Coming from a Latin background, I find from all over. comfort in the Spanish culture and cuisine.

This restaurant offers everything that I really enjoyed the views of the restaurant a food lover can dream of with its special because it tied my experience all together,” menus, fine entertainment, beautiful scenery senior Julianna Guzman said. and impeccable views. Level 6 is the ideal Level 6 even offers reservations for private spot for anyone searching Coconut Grove in events. With an email or just a call, customers search of a new experience, waiting just six get to have their own custom event where floors above. their guests can intimately enjoy the scenery and unique dishes of the restaurant. The restaurant also hosts events such as the “Full Moon Soiree,” where guests are able to make reservations to welcome the rise of the Full Blue Moon with the beautiful view from the restaurant itself.

On their Instagram page, @level6mia, guests and new audiences can keep up with their events and even find that there are Alexandra Fels/highlights sundown sessions where the staff HAVE IT YOUR WAY: Level 6 offers will welcome guests to come see several classic brunch dishes, with the sunset on the rooftop while eggs being the star of the show. enjoying performances such as samba and saxophone sets to really tie in the experience.

The restaurant also holds and creates special menus for special holidays such as Valentine’s Day and Easter. This year, they created a special four-course prix-fixe menu special for couples at $110 per person. This menu included appetizers such as hamachi crudo, which is a dish that consists of jalapeno, basil, kalamansi, bulgur Alexandra Fels/highlights cracker and yuzu kosho. As for Easter, the restaurant hosted an BRUNCH WITH A VIEW: The menu Easter Sunday brunch where they of renowned dishes pairs perfectly allowed guests to enjoy a special

with

views

of

Coconut

Grove.

23 the scene

Florentine flavors

Out of the bustling MiMo district, O’Munaciello seeks to trasnport customers to Italy with its flavors and decor

BY STACY URBINA, STAFF WRITER

I

N 2005, AN AMBITIOUS GROUP of Florentine friends decided to bring their love of pizza-making from Florence, Italy, to Miami and opened a restaurant for those looking for authentic Italian cuisine. Today, there are two locations in Florida, with more in the works.

Opening their first restaurant in Italy, the group chose a large hall full of colorful flowers to house their dishes. This place was chosen because of the aromatic flowers, the colors enlightening one’s eyes and the joyful atmosphere of Southern Italy. The Florentine friends decided to take an unexpected approach and move their recipes to the United States for a newer and wider audience.

“Many people are coming here because it’s a simple restaurant in the United States with only two locations,’’ manager Marcella Bonera said. ’’It’s been open for seven years, and that’s what we are known for.’’

Before even opening, a name needed to be given to the Italian restaurant.

“O’Munaciello,’’ meaning “little monk,’’ originated from Naples as a well-known figure in Neapolitan culture and tradition. The legend of this figure represents a character who played games and brought people bad or good luck.

The legend was originally told by Neapolitans long ago, but the group of friends found this

appealing for their modern restaurant.

Upkeeping its traditional decor, O’Munaciello is adorned with several other odes to their Italian culture, displaying classic angelic figures and artworks.

The restaurant itself is known for its delectable pizza varieties. One of

Stacy Urbina/highlights

AUTHENTIC INGREDIENTS: Dishes like their prosciutto antipasti are imported from Italy.

24 the scene

the pizzas they serve is the Margherita D.O.P., which is a margherita pizza with buffalo cheese. Another pizza customers like is the Pizza Classiche, with pepperoni, cheese and tomato. Among the most popular is the Las Vegas Pizza, which includes peppers, mushrooms, sausage and tomatoes.

The Cuore di Pistacchio includes mozzarella, mortadella, a sausage, burrata and pistachio cream.

Pizza is not the only item they are known for, as they also serve polpo, or octopus, pasta dishes and chocolate souffle. Everything is imported from Italy, from the products used to make the dough to the toppings used to finish the pizza. ‘’Not only is the pizza great, but the price is affordable and the place itself is cozy,’’ customer Gretel Lopez said.

The O’Munaciello location in Miami has won the Gambero Rosso, an award recognizing the best Italian restaurants around the world, for four years straight. In 2022, the Napoletana pizza won the restaurant the title of “Pizza Maker of the Year” at the Pizza Exposition in Las Vegas.

O’Munaciello has had a strong reputation ever since its opening, with every detail in the restaurant being thought out with love for Italian culture. The founding group is excited to see how the restaurant will grow in the future. h

Stacy Urbina/highlights

TRADITIONAL:

O’Munaciello embraces Florentine method by cooking with a brick oven.

Design by Carolina Castro/highlights

Where the walls come alive

Amidst the many art galleries and lively streets of Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, The Wall continues to stand out

BY MARIA ARDILA, STAFF WRITER

A

GALLERY IN ITSELF SERVES as a blank canvas until it is decorated with all of the vibrant artworks that are hung, promoted and consciously placed for all who appreciate unique composition. The Wall Art Gallery is a lively manifestation of this. Located in the Wynwood Art District, the area surrounding the gallery is an accumulation of different exhibits made for the appreciation of art.

At The Wall, the creative experience is enhanced by elements separate from the art, meant to create a serene atmosphere.

Light streams in from two large windows, illuminating the arrangement of vividly stimulating artworks, further brightened by warm spotlights. Keeping space between each piece is significantly important, allowing the spectator to immerse themself completely in each subject.

“When I came in, we had just started our first exhibition, which was just sculptures,” gallery coordinator Anabela Castaño said. ”It just felt very peaceful.”

Maria Ardila/highlights

LADY

IN RED: The celebrates a variety of mediums, from pastels to Design by Carolina Castro/highlights

The Wall Art Gallery focuses on bringing together international artists and their works into a 4000-square-foot space to be displayed to visitors and art connoisseurs alike. The Wall displays around 50 artworks at a time, with a typical mix of 35 paintings and 15 sculptures or figures. The gallery showcases art from a variety of artists, such as world-famous contemporary artist Takashi Murakami, kinetic artist Elias Maria Ardila/highlights Crespin and even the world’s richest artist, Damien Hirst.

There are also a number of Hispanic artists featured, such as Jorge Jiménez Deredia, a Costa Rican sculptor who fuses A THROUGH Z: The Wall highlights artists contemporary and figurative art to from Arman to Zane, handing the spotlight create a modern abstract piece. The to a variety of local and national talents. gallery also educates the public about modern art and culture by to all for public viewing. Students, especially singularly commemorating Fernando Botero, the young artists of Gables, would be eluded a world-famous Colombian artist and sculptor by the freedom for creativity and inspiration known for his contributions to Miami art. potential from the modern illusory ideas found “Galleries like this are a shortcut to in this gallery. As an attractive passageway beautiful experiences only known through The Wall Art Gallery serves as a medium the relatable contemporary pieces shared between the 21st-century world and artistry. h by artists of the world during enriching expositions,” freshman Angelina Castro said.

As a newer local business, the gallery has made a significant effort to promote itself and the artists it represents, attending the 2023 edition of Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary convention and the 2022 edition of Art Miami, which featured Jiménez Deredia once more. With visitors from all over the world, the gallery benefits from the surrounding tourism. As a way to use this peaceful space and attract even more patrons with a variety of interests, The Wall has also hosted special classes on painting Wall and even workout sessions.

SCULPTED TO PERFECTION: art Throughout the week, from 11 a.m. to The Wall contains several oils. 7 p.m., this contemporary exhibit is open sculptures apart from its paintings.

25 the scene

Another man's treasure Miami vintage

citizens embrace the old at various pop-up flea markets throughout the city

BY ALICIA FAJARDO, STAFF WRITER

I

N AN AGE OF WASTEFUL consumerism, people are looking back to the past for new, sustainable inspiration. Thankfully, Miami is home to many vintage flea markets that allow consumers to support local artists and vendors who live and work in their very own communities. Two such markets include the Magic City Flea and Little River Market, both of which emphasize community solidarity, demonstrated by their movement throughout Miami-owned establishments all across the

city. These markets are a testament to how important giving back to the community is, and how much fun can be had in the process.

Many modern clothing brands churn out new designs and pieces at a rapid pace, often resulting in innumerable amounts of clothing getting thrown out each year, producing unnecessary waste. Since these clothes are produced so quickly, they are often low quality and do not last for a long time. For this reason, more and more fashion enthusiasts have been looking to vintage clothing, which is often

higher quality than the quick-turn clothes of today.

The Magic City Flea market places heavy emphasis on handmade artisan goods and upcycled pieces made out of a variety of different fabrics, creating a look that is not only visually unique but also more sustainable than the average machined garment. The Little River Flea Market aims to make the fashion industry as a whole more environmentally friendly by handpicking ethical vendors and reducing the use of plastic packaging.

Little River Flea The Little River Flea market is a hidden for eco-conscious shoppers looking for unique, A large highlight of the Little River Flea gem that exudes a unique, laid-back sustainable finds. From upcycled furniture to Market is the variety of hand-picked vintage charm. Nestled in the eclectic Little River retro clothing, every item carries a sense of wares. The Vintage Clubhouse, a Miamineighborhood, this market offers a more intimate history and a commitment to reducing waste. based collective featured at Little River Flea, and local shopping experience compared “I love feeling like I’m giving a focuses on all sorts of items, from classic to its larger, commercialized counterparts. garment new life, especially considering Miami Dolphins uniforms to unused ‘90s Spread across a cozy courtyard, the how wasteful many modern brands toys. This store is a dream come true for Little River Flea market has a distinct are,” senior Clara Bombicci said. any vintage collector who loves to fill their bohemian style. The stalls, adorned with Annie’s Attik specializes in vintage bar, home with all things from another time. colorful fabrics and handmade signs, present glass, and tableware. For reasonable prices, The atmosphere of Little River Flea is cozy the artisanal craftsmanship materialized anyone can get their hands on a unique piece to and inviting. Visitors can leisurely browse throughout. Here, one can find a curated bedazzle their tables at the next family dinner. through the stalls, pausing to chat with vendors selection of goods, from vintage and fellow shoppers. The market clothing to handcrafted jewelry and often hosts local musicians as well, quirky home decor. The vendors, adding a live acoustic soundtrack often local artisans and vintage to the browsing experience. enthusiasts, are passionate about The Little River Flea market is their offerings and are eager to share also a hub for creative workshops and the stories behind their creations. events. From do-it-yourself crafting TERSRA Fabrications works sessions to small-scale music on making geometric, modern performances, the market regularly candles out of recycled beeswax. hosts activities that encourage Their creations redefine the notion interaction and skill-sharing among that candles can only be a means of visitors. It is a place where creativity bringing a pleasant scent to the room, knows no bounds and where as they also serve as a conversationeveryone is welcome to participate. starting piece of trendy decor The Little River Flea market is Unlike larger markets, the Little A window to the incredible artistic River Flea market places a strong community in Miami. While most Alicia Fajardo/highlights emphasis on sustainability and people view the city only as a means upcycling. Many vendors specialize DIGGING FOR GOLD: With a variety of options, of acquiring luxury goods, the market in repurposing and breathing new life shows the underbelly of vintage patrons look through racks for their perfect piece. fashion and handmade goods. into forgotten treasures. It is a haven

26 the scene

Design by Carolina Castro/highlights

Magic City Flea Stretching over several acres, the Magic City Flea Market is a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds and scents. Stalls adorned with handmade crafts, vintage treasures and international goods beckon visitors to explore their eclectic offerings. The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of street food vendors, offering a culinary journey through various global cuisines while shopping.

From the sizzling delights of Latin American arepas to the aromatic spices of Caribbean jerk chicken, every palate is catered to.

For example, the Dough House offers artisan cookies and cakes, available to satisfy the sweet tooth of any shopper passing by. Founder Nicole Shepard recalled celebrating childhood milestones with a cookie cake from her favorite bakery.

When it shut down, she took up the task of opening her own shop, with a commitment to always baking cookies fresh and with the highest quality ingredients available.

“I love being able to share one of my favorite hobbies with my community,” Shepard said. “It’s really special to be see the same joy in other people that my local shop’s cookies gave me.”

What sets the Magic City Flea market apart is its ability to foster a sense of community.

Local artisans and entrepreneurs, whether new or experienced, are able to proudly showcase their work. It is a place where the stories of the city’s diverse population come alive through

their creations. One can find intricate jewelry crafted by skilled artisans, paintings that reflect the city’s vibrant spirit and unique fashion pieces that celebrate Miami’s eclectic style.

The market’s atmosphere is further enlivened by the rhythmic beats of

“

I love being able to share one of my favorite hobbies with my community.

Nicole Shapard, vendor live music performers. Musicians from various backgrounds and genres gather here, providing a soulful backdrop to the shopping experience. Visitors often find themselves swaying to the melodies, creating a shared sense of joy and camaraderie.

One can easily get lost in the myriad of stands, each offering something distinctive.

Vintage merchandise aficionados can unearth hidden treasures, while fashionistas can discover one-of-a-kind garments. The market’s layout of winding stalls is intentionally designed to encourage exploration, ensuring

that every visit unveils new surprises.

A rather interesting aspect of the market is its extremely talented array of vendors that make handmade goods, such as Fresh Wind Clay and the Mandy Club. Fresh Wind Clay, owned and run by Mae Lorenzo, sells adorable clay earrings and small pottery with stunning designs. The Mandy Club focuses on gender-neutral jewelry to make all buyers feel special, regardless of their identity.

“I feel like jewelry can be overly feminine sometimes” customer Sophie Alessi said. “The Mandy Club pieces let me express myself in a way that feels right with my gender identity” Beyond its commercial aspect, the Magic City Flea Market also plays a crucial role in supporting local entrepreneurship. Many of the vendors are small business owners and the market provides them with a platform to showcase their products to a wider audience.

This creates a symbiotic relationship between the market and the community, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.

In essence, the Magic City Flea Market is a microcosm of Miami itself - a place where diverse cultures can converge, creativity can flourish and the spirit of entrepreneurship thrives. It is a testament to the city’s dynamic energy and its people’s unwavering passion for self-expression.

Visiting the Magic City Flea market is not just a shopping experience; it is an immersion into the very heart and soul of Miami. h

Alicia Fajardo/highlights

SHOWCASING Wayz

come

Design by Carolina Castro/highlights

VENDORS:

together

in

Local small businesses such as Thrift Magic City to push sustainable lifestyles.

the scene

27

insight

MIAMI-DADE IMMIGRATION & EDUCATION

BY EMILIA KOHNSTAMM, STAFF WRITER

28 insight

Design by Juan Fajardo/highlights

Miami-Dade, a county of immigrants, employs unique systems to integrate foreign students into its schools and academic culture

F

ragments of different cultures, each uniquely shaped, unite to form the city of Miami. This epicenter of immigration has a population of more than 1.45 million foreign-born residents.

For as long as Miami has remained a sanctuary for those in search of community and security, immigrants flooding into the area have contributed to population and economic growth. To help assist newcomers and manage this influx, many institutions, notably the public school system, have adapted and evolved over time.

Immigration to Miami began as people from the Bahamas began populating Miami in the 1890s. In the following years, small groups of Cubans settled until the Cuban revolution occurred, which drove a mass of Cubans

supporting the ousted government into the city.

The Library of Congress explains that many expected to return to their old lives once the political climate stabilized. When Fidel Castro solidified his communist regime, thousands more emigrated from Cuba. Consequently, Miami’s Hispanic population exploded.

Yet, due to an overwhelmed infrastructure, conflicts arose between immigrants and the receiving population. This led to discrimination across society, from applying to jobs to securing housing. According to The Washington Post, some Miamians even created and moved to entirely separate communities just north of the city, gated and with a white majority.

In 1966, the Cuban Adjustment Act was implemented, allowing Cubans who

had been living in the U.S. for at least two years to apply for a green card, according to the Immigration History website. This act guaranteed Cuban Americans preferential immigration conditions and began the immigrant community’s integration into the nation’s institutions.

Today, almost 60% of the city’s population are immigrants, as noted by the U.S. Census Bureau. As these numbers rise, schools become centers of social activity. They help kids grow, form their own opinions and prepare for the world that awaits them. For these reasons, they are uniquely affected by the influx of immigrants.

Likewise, the experiences that students have with their school ammenities foretell their relation to their city they moved to.

A GLOBAL STUDENT BODY Bright fluorescents illuminate the have a little bit of everything.” attendance office. The waiting area is brimming Despite looming legislation, like Gov. Ron with cushy couches and rigid wooden chairs.

DeSantis’ recent push for an in-state tuition ban Families huddle and anxiously await to register for undocumented students, new students today their children. are generally welcomed into the district and Around MDCPS, the third-largest school swiftly enrolled. district in the nation, this scene is familiar to According to WLRN, the Miami-Dade many. Considering the city’s multiculturalism, school system is growing for the first time in the district must divert a sizable percentage decades. Compiled with staff loss brought on of its attention toward managing the influx of by the COVID-19 pandemic, this enrollment students who, along with their families, arrive growth tests the school board’s capacity to escaping political oppression, economic turmoil serve each student. and natural disasters.

As of yet, According to the overcrowding has not Miami Herald, during posed a dangerous threat.

DID YOU KNOW? the first six months of the In fact, while the U.S. Around 20,000 migrant News & World Report 2022-2023 school year, children were enrolled in notes almost 10,000 students that 334,261 from Cuba, Haiti, MDCPS schools in the 2022- students currentlyattend Nicaragua and Venezuela MDCPS,CBS explains 2023 school year enrolled in MDCPS. that in 2015, at its peak, Source: WLRN South Florida This growth can be MDCPS served 360,000 accredited to a new Biden students. administration policy that allows people from “From a legal perspective, Dade County these countries to stay and work in the U.S. public schools have to accept students for legally for two years, after undergoing a lengthy enrollment,” immigration attorney Gina Polo application process and extensive verifications. said. “School-age children will be accepted “The amount of students entering because they have a right to education.”

Gables all depends on the year and how the Luckily, the county offers several programs immigration laws are being applied, as well as and services that not only make the procedure what’s happening in Congress,” Gables ESOL more transparent but also help these students coordinator and compliance liaison Claudia get the resources they need socially and in Navarro said. “We’ve had years where we had education, in addition to helping the hundreds a lot of Cubans coming over, a few years that a of schools in the district balance an attendee lot of Venezuelans were coming. Right now we influx.

Design by Juan Fajardo/highlights

from the editor “Giving our students the world:” the motto of Miami-Dade County Public Schools and a heavy reminder of the promise of public education. Twelve years deep into the system, I have realized that, in Miami, this exchange really goes both ways. Every day students bring the world to schools.

This used to be looked down upon in the 20th century’s search for total homogenization within the long-gone era of suburban sameness. However, as social tendencies have shifted towards celebrations of diversity and it has become socially acceptable to speak a second language in public, schools have become strongholds of change.

In reconciling with the interests of a growing immigrant population, schools in Miami have a unique opportunity to bolster the next generation of thinkers with exceeding cultural awareness.

Sincerely, Juan Fajardo Insight Editor

insight

29

THE STUDENT INFLUX PLAN Bracing for challenges in managing the student population, the district has implemented the first stage of the Student Influx Plan.

According to the Miami Herald, the guide is composed of three brackets that respond to sudden increases in enrollment. This first stage focuses on monitoring and recording influx rates in specific areas. By managing these statistics, the board can ensure that no one school is in danger of overcrowding while another is under-attended.

“Most students go where they have family or know someone,” Navarro said. “Soon they’ll move to another area once the parents get solid jobs and housing. It is difficult for the district to keep track because of the movement, but they’re always working on something to help newcomers.”

Previously, MDCPS took less inclusive measures. A 1994 New York Times article

explains that the school board once attempted a program that created special makeshift schools for refugee students to satisfy their right to education.

From resulting controversies, attention was brought to the distress of educational equality for new students. Residents worried that segregating these immigrant students from the rest of their classmates would lead to social regression due to lower quality of education.

Today, the updated influx plan marks significant progress, and its subsections are effective in reaching their goal. Since school years in Latin America typically end in late November and early December, Hispanic students will enter MDCPS soon after. The consistent monitoring under the Influx Plan can help make sure that certain schools receive extra resources to help the process feel less chaotic for the students and staff during this time period.

EXTENDING A HELPING HAND Many immigrant families enter a new place with limited belongings and access to basic needs.

This makes it harder for kids to receive a quality education to give them access to opportunities for a successful career in the future.

Programs providing aid for these struggles are integral to social mobility in Miami-Dade. Project UP-START, for example, helps schools enroll and monitor pupils. It aims to prevent stigma and isolation for children in transition. This is accomplished through transportation services, tutoring and college application help.

Additionally, the Redlands Christian Migrant Association provides early childhood education, healthcare aid, lending a hand to parents whom they strive to involve in their child’s education.

Finally, the MDCPS Migrant Education Program, which was established in 1966 under the

Elementary and Secondary Education Act, focuses on providing educational options for migrants to relieve the scholastic disruptions resulting from frequent moves, explains the MDCPS website.

“I’m originally from Camaguey, Cuba, but I lived most of my life in Havana. The immigration process for me was hard,” freshman Liz Rodriguez said. “I passed through many countries very quickly, and even despite all the challenges I faced, it took me less time to immigrate than most.”

When students arrive at a new school, they have to take psychological and IQ exams, which are both performed by school psychologists and counselors. Counseling by on-campus counselors at Gables allows students facing hardship during their immigration journey to process their experiences and emotions.

students speak up

“

30 insight

Me mudé desde México debido a la pandemia.

Aquí la escuela es diferente. ESOL me ha ayudado mucho, ya estoy en el nivel cuatro y estoy a punto de graduarme.

Annette Martinez, junior

“

“

by the num Compiled by Juan Fajardo/highlights

87%

of English Language Learners in Miami-Dade County speak Spanish Source: Education.

Resources Information Center

397%

There has been a 397% increase in international migration since 2010 in the Miami metro area.

Source: Florida International University Metropolitan Center

31%

of higher education enrollees in Florida are first- or secondgeneration students.

Source: Higher Ed Immigration Portal

I learned more English outside of school than inside. When you perform badly, it’s not because you don’t study or you’re not smart, just that you don’t know or understand.

Adrian Bernal, sophomore

“

Design by Juan Fajardo/highlights

MAKING AN ESOL COMMUNITY

mbers

53%

of Miami-Dade County’s population is made up of immigrants.

Source: Miami-Dade County Office of New Americans

39%

of completed deportation cases in Miami-Dade have resulted in removal and voluntary departure orders.

Source: Syracuse University

29%

of migrant students were at or above Reading Proficiency on Florida Standard assesments in Miami-Dade in 2016.

Source: Florida Department of Education

“

ESOL, or English for Speakers of Other Languages, is an acronym that bounces off the walls of every school in Miami. The program aims to help nonnative English speakers develop their English speech, writing and comprehension.

“The goal of the ESOL program is to help these immigrant students achieve what the student that was born in the United States could, even though they might be at a slight disadvantage,” Navarro said. “We prepare them to meet the requirements here.”

The program also focuses on catching students up on topics that fit into the system and requirements of the new curriculum.

“Academically, the move was a big change,” said Rodriguez. “First of all, the language was different. Even though I’m bilingual, English didn’t really dominate my home country. In my country, Cuba, there is not a lot of technological progress, so I had to learn to adapt to the new tech

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE When it comes to enrolling a brand-new student who may not be familiar with English, the schools around Miami Dade have responsibilities.

The first step is identification. This entails identifying those students who would classify as an English Language Learner, by assessing their proficiency through ESOL placement tests, explained the Florida House of Representatives.

However, even before testing, schools send home a language survey, further aiding them in identifying the students who would benefit from the program.

“English is often something totally different for them,” Navarro said. “Many students come very well prepared for math or science but they don’t do well, not because they don’t know it but because they don’t understand it.”

The next step is reclassification. Florida uses

Soy originalmente de Venezuela. He aprendido muchas cosas fuera de clase, especialmente cuando hablo con amigos y escucho música.

Valeria Da Silva, freshman Design by Juan Fajardo/highlights

offered by the school system. The ESOL program has helped me adapt to the system, country and language. I have access to fluid courses with a wide variety of options and topics taught.”

Along with the academic elements, the ESOL program fosters a sense of community for these new students who may otherwise feel very detached or solitary. ESOL clubs, extensions of the program, around Miami-Dade help further this message of community.

“It is a culture shock as soon as they come into Miami, especially into Gables. It’s huge,” Gables ESOL club sponsor Jennifer Chapman said. “When they come here, I notice they feel isolated. The club is a place for them to get to know one another and join in on different activities that Gables has to offer.”

Unity among peers in different communities makes the transition to a new environment simpler.

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the Comprehensive English Language Learner Assessment to measure ELLs annual proficiency status. There are four levels of ESOL in total.

The ESOL program is not meant to be a permanent figure in a student’s life, a student can exit the program by scoring at the English proficient level on a CELLA. Teachers around MDCPS must constantly reevaluate the position of each individual student.

“I made a recommendation for our community service this year for Gables to create a buddy system for immigrant students,” Chapman said.

“So when a new student comes, another can help them adapt.”

It is important that those living in this vibrant city strive to do the best they can to the expanding student body. Through sustained effort, social changes may lead to city success. h

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Crossing the border and adapting to a new place was hard. Everything here is more strict than in Cuba. I struggled.

Isabella Dieguez, freshman

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insight

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Sophomores Luna Vargas and Gloria Porro run back to the middle of the field after celebrating Porro’s goal with their fellow teammates. The varsity game against Hialeah-Miami Gardens Senior High ended with a score of 7-0.

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