The Miami Hurricane -- October 17, 2011

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The Miami

HURRICANE Vol. 90, Issue 16 | Oct. 17 - Oct. 19, 2011

STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI IN CORAL GABLES, FLORIDA, SINCE 1929

The Green Scene EXPANSION TROUBLES

PORT OF MIAMI PROJECT SPARKS DEBATE ON NEARBY MARINE LIFE PAGE 4

SECRET GARDEN

ARBORETUM PROVIDES STUDENTS GATEWAY TO NATURE’S BEAUTY PAGE 10

FAST FOOTWORK

WOMEN’S SOCCER CLOSE OUT HOME SEASON WITH VICTORY PAGE 13

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UPCOMING EVENT

Conference focuses on green issues Journalists meet to discuss environment

BY DAN ENGLERT CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

The Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ) will hold its 21st annual conference in Miami from Oct. 19 to 23.

The conference will bring together environmental journalists from across the nation to discuss the latest headlines in their field and to participate in more than 20 workshops, tours, discussion sessions and dinners across South Florida. The University of Miami is the host of the conference.

The event will take place at the Intercontinental Hotel in Downtown Miami and it is expected to attract more than 700 participants. “[The] conference will bring international attention to many environmental issues of central importance to Miami communities, from South Florida ecosystems to climate change, ” SEJ executive director Beth Parke said.

Discussion topics will include projections of rising sea levels, the future of local resource-dependent fisheries and the debate raging over offshore drilling.

The registered attendees include more than 300 professional journalists specializing in all fields of print and electronic media, officials from government organizations like NASA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, philanthropists, students and faculty from various schools in Mi-

ami.

“I am personally excited to listen to and network with writers that are notifying the public and covering some of the most pressing issues of our time, ” said Ian McKeown, director of the Green U program and sustainability coordinator at UM. Apart from discussions, major features on the agenda include an eco-friendly fashion show and an environmental film festival.

Field trips will also take journalists scuba diving just south of the Florida Keys to the world ’s only undersea research station, and to the National Hurricane Center to witness a simulated Category 5 hurricane.

To help the attendees sort through the events, UM is creating an online newspaper with Florida International University and Miami Dade College called The Miami Planet.

“There are so many events that no one can attend them all, ” said Joseph B. Treaster, the chair for cross-cultural communication at the Knight Center for International Media in UM ’s School of Communication. “The idea is that when people can ’t get to an event they can find out what happened by reading our newspaper. ” The online news source, which Treaster called “experimental, ” will cover many of the conference ’s events with articles and recordings available at themiamiplanet.org.

More than 100 student reporters and photographers are working on The Miami Planet with nearly a dozen faculty mem-

Take a look at Ernesto Suarez’s recap on this past weekend’s volleyball games.

CAYLA NIMMO // Photo Editor

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE: UM senior Katie Sikora photographs wildlife by the Anhinga Trail during a weekend Everglades workshop.

bers from UM, FIU and Miami Dade College.

“The students have always done good work, ” Treaster said.

“But knowing they were going to be published in a newspaper that would have worldwide reach has pushed them to polish their work and make it even more attractive to readers. ” Treaster hopes to inspire fellow journalists through the content posted on the website.

“We also have dozens of stories about South Florida and its environment, which are designed to give those attending the conference a feel for the region, ” Treaster said. “We expect that the journalists at the conference will get ideas for stories of their own by reading our articles. ”

SEJ was started in 1990 and has grown to include more than 1,500 members. The organization offers many resources to journalists including a mentor program, small grants and events such as the upcoming conference here in Miami.

Students and professional attendees are still welcome to register for the SEJ annual conference, which will also include workshops to improve writing and video journalism skills, at their official website.

“People are very dedicated to this work, ” said Parke, who described the attendees of the upcoming conference as “an amazing group united by a concern for and stake in environmental news coverage. ”

DONUTS FOR A CAUSE HERBERT HOEDOWN

FOOD TRUCK FRENZY

Order Krispy Kreme donuts from the Office of the Controller to support United Way. To order, call 305-284-4656, or email rrichards@miami.edu or bpope@miami.edu. The donuts will be ready for pickup on the first floor of the Gables One Tower on Thursday from 8:30 to 10 a.m. One dozen donuts are $7.

On Oct. 28 from 6 p.m. to midnight, local food trucks will once again park along Stanford Circle and offer freshly cooked, inexpensive meals. The event will kickoff the Homecoming opening ceremonies.

NEWS

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

Check out the photo staff’s slideshow of the Occupy Miami movement.

Missed out on the play “Barnada Alba?”

Read Karla Durango’s review.

Have you seen “Footloose?” Check out Carlos Mella’s review.

Subscribe for the email edition of the newspaper at themiamihurricane. com/subscribe.

TWITTER ACCOUNTS @MiamiHurricane @Dear_V @TMH_Photo @TMH_Sports

NEWS BRIEFS

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Check out what’s exclusively available at TheMiamiHurricane. com.

The first Herbert Hoedown will be held on Friday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Wellness Center.

DJ Kenny Henley from Davie’s Round Up will be playing all types of music, not just country. A bull-riding contest will also be a part of the evening’s events. The first 200 guests will receive giveaways.

Oct. 17 - Oct. 19, 2011

Jonathan Borge may be contacted at jborge@ themiamihurricane.com.

FACEBOOK PAGE facebook.com/ themiamihurricane

ON THE COVER Photo of Miami’s skyline by Marlena Skrobe, illustration by Mariah Price.

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ROSENSTIEL SCHOOL OF ATMOSPHERIC AND MARINE SCIENCE

Scientists evaluate oil spill aftermath Chief scientist Wilson Mendoza (top left) and Andrew Carter plot out the sample coordinates for the R.V. Walton Smith. Mendoza, who previously took samples in the Gulf of Mexico (top right) after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, has returned with a team to further study the movement of the oil. The team must make sure that the current path of the vessel doesn’t go within one to two nautical miles of other oil rigs in the area. Carter (middle left), a student at the Rosenstiel School of Atmospheric and Marine Science, washes out a bottle sample. Mendoza, Carter and Eric Buck (middle right) watch dolphins swim along the ship.

PHOTOS BY MARLENA SKROBE See

the full photo slideshow at themiamihurricane.com.

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PORT OF MIAMI

Port expansion causes environmental debate Project aims to aid large vessels

BY KRISTEN SPILLANE CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

An upcoming dredging of the port of Miami ’s seafloor could present massive risks to the marine environment and to the pristine waters that define the South Florida ’s tourism, lifestyle and appeal.

By 2014, the port will be deep enough to accommodate some of the largest shipping vessels to ever cross the Panama Canal.

“The port of Miami expansion project has been a long time coming, ” said Daniel Suman, a University of Miami professor of marine affairs and policy. “We ’ve always been concerned with the issue. ” The average vessel currently operating out of Miami ’s port is 4,500 TEUs, according to the Port of Miami ’s website. TEU stands for 20-foot equivalent unit and is a measurement used to denote the capacity available on a cargo ship. To safely and effectively navigate a larger cargo ship like a post-Panamax vessel, Miami ’s port needs deeper water than the depth available at most U.S. East Coast ports.

The arrival of larger ships, which could reach up to about 12,000 TEUs, called for the need to dredge the port to a depth of -50 feet; the port currently has a depth of -42 feet.

“The ad hoc call was a clear in-

dication of the infrastructure and operations required to welcome this size of vessel, which will become the new minimum industry standard once the Panama Canal enlargement is completed in 2014, ” said Jean-Philippe Thenoz, vice president of North American lines at CMA CGM, a container shipping group.

So what does this mean for the sea life inhabiting the port of Miami?

In order to remain a major player in the east coast ’s shipping business, Miami ’s port must be deepened to accommodate the enlarged standard of freighter passing through the Panama Canal. This expansive work will have environmental impacts.

Those against the dredging have expressed their concerns about the inevitable damage to South Florida ’s coral reefs.

“I think it ’s sad that so many people are willing to destroy the reef for the sake of a long shot. I don ’t see the benefits outweighing the costs in this situation, ” said Rachel Pausch, a sophomore majoring in marine biology, biology and geology.

An article published in The New York Times on Sept. 3 explains that “about 7 acres of coral is expected to be directly affected by the blasts, and the Army Corps of Engineers will be required to transplant much of it to a trough between two reefs. ” Another worry for those opposed to the dredging is the effects on seagrass.

“I ’m most concerned about the damage to the seagrass, ” Suman said.

MARLENA SKROBE // The Miami Hurricane

ROW YOUR BOAT: A ship is docked at the Port of Miami on Thursday. The port, which is the 11th largest cargo container port in the U.S., will be expanding and connecting to other highways.

“The expansion site is adjacent to Virginia Key, a wildlife conservatory for seagrass and manatees, and there is always the possibility of damage to such a protected site. ” So just how much damage can the area expect?

“If the transplants go well, we could have healthy, beautiful reefs.

But if they go bad, the trademark

Florida reefs face a huge risk of survival, ” said junior Parker Crawford, who is majoring in marine affairs and is an executive board officer of UM ’s SCUBA club.

Opposition forces need to prove a violation of the Endangered Species Act to even deter the progress.

“If endangered staghorn or elkhorn corals were found to be in

direct impact areas of the dredging, that would be one strong argument to at least slow or alter the project, ” Suman said.

Read more about the expansion in the staff editorial on page 6.

DOWNTOWN MIAMI

New park brings greener grass to downtown Miami Eco-friendly space to open

BY JONATHAN BORGE ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

Nestled in the concrete heart of downtown Miami, a new environmentally-friendly green space is scheduled to open by the end of October or the beginning of November.

Grand Central Park, as the location is called, is expected to attract locals and tourists alike to an outdoor space designed for public 4

NEWS

events, festivals, farmers markets and frequent wandering in what was once the space of the Miami Arena, an institution that was demolished in 2008.

Originally, the park was meant to beautify a decaying neighborhood and eventually improve the quality of life for its residents. However, Grand Central Park will perhaps be a larger facet of the Miami community, drawing visitors from areas outside of downtown.

“We designed Grand Central Park to serve as a platform for sustainable design concepts and

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

as a catalyst for community activation of the Overtown and Park West neighborhoods, ” said Mark Lesniak, executive director of the Overtown Park West Redevelopment Association (OPWRA), in a statement.

In addition to green space, there will be a sloping plaza with a berm, a man-made shelf, and a “no mow ” lawn, a blend of six slowgrowing grasses meant to thrive with little attention and reduce the growth of weeds. The plaza itself is also anticipated to be a hub for many public events, including concerts, movie nights and mini-fairs.

Oct. 17 - Oct. 19, 2011

“Looking at the design for it, the native plantings and this green oasis in the middle of the city, I think that it ’s a really good idea and a way to get more green into the city, which I feel is an up-andcoming movement, ” said Lauren Baron, president of Sustainable U, an on-campus organization devoted to educating the UM community about how to live a more substainable life.

Grand Central Park was given the green flag in January, when the Miami Community Redevelopment Agency awarded OPWRA $200,000 to be spent on

its creation.

Though the grant helped to boost the progression of the park ’s opening, it is unclear how long it will remain open due to problems with funding and revenue.

For now, funding will come from events and entrance fees, while residents of the nearby downtown area will enjoy the park for free.

“As a pilot project we ’re jumping through all the hoops, ” said Bradley Knoefler, president of the OPWRA, in an interview with The Miami Herald. “We see this as a project that can be replicated. ”

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ALUMNI

Former students honored for work on TV series Health of dolphins examined in episode

BY JACKIE SALO STAFF WRITER

Two University of Miami alumni were involved in the making of an episode of the television series “Changing Seas, ” which recently won the 2011 Communications Award in the film/radio/TV category.

The award was presented by the National Academy of Sciences, and the National Academy of Engineering and Institute of Medicine. It is funded by the W.M. Keck Foundation, which recognizes excellence in reporting and communication science, among other categories.

Veronique Koch, an alumna of UM ’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and

We beat out a lot of shows with much bigger budgets like [PBS’s] ‘NOVA. It was a big honor to win.

Veronique Koch, Alumna of UM’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science

Atmospheric Science (RSMAS), was the episode ’s associate producer.

“We beat out a lot of shows with much bigger budgets like [PBS ’s] ‘NOVA, ’ ” Koch said. “It was a big honor to win. ” Jenny Litz, another RSMAS alumna and a research fishery biologist for NOAA ’s National Marine Fisheries Service, is interviewed in the episode.

“Changing Seas ” is an ongoing program on local public television channel WPBT2 that focuses on discovering the oceans and their marine life. The episode that was recognized, “Sentinels of the Seas, ” explores the health of bottlenose dolphins and how it correlates with environmental hazards that could harm humans.

“I think very few people know that a lot of dolphins and other marine animals have high body burdens of contaminants, ” said Alexa Elliot, who produced the series. “There is no way for them to get rid of these contaminants. The only way is if it is a female and she gives birth. ” The dolphins ’ deteriorating health as a result of contaminants in the food web is an indicator that this may be a problem facing humans as well.

“They are the canaries in the coal mind because they are showing the signs we could show if we eat the same contaminants, ” Koch said.

To view this episode and learn more about the issue, visit changingseas.tv.

SCREENSHOT FROM CHANGINGSEAS.TV

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speak

UP!

How do you go green?

COURTNEY KIMMEY Sophomore “Turning the water off when I brush my teeth.”

AL VALLETTE Sophomore “By recycling any cans or bottles I use.”

”

Gaurav Dhiman, Senior Columnist

STAFF EDITORIAL

damage from the silt, and no dead manatees, dolphins or turtles were recovered.

There is no doubt, though, that dredging will destroy marine life. Dredging involves explosions at the bottom of the port, putting all types of sea life at risk from the shockwaves.

The port is bordered by the Biscayne Aquatic Preserve, an extremely fragile ecosystem that even prevents people from entering some sections.

Areas that have previously been dredged are now repopulated as well, and water quality will be affected negatively.

Regulators say that damage will be offset by creating artificial reefs elsewhere, but the dredging could have untold effects on the fishing industry as well as the vibrant marine life in the area. This, coupled with concerns that Miami ’s location and infrastructure make it unlikely to receive many ships, is very worrisome.

We may be dredging ourselves into an environmental and financial hole we can ’t get out of.

Editorials represent the majority view of The Miami Hurricane editorial board.

Florida should eat from its own backyard MOLLY RUTTENBERG Sophomore “Unplugging my unused cords.”

ALEX SOMODEVILLA Sophomore “Recycle and walk places more often, rather than driving.”

Speak Up answers are edited for clarity, brevity and accuracy.

Check out video Speak Ups at themiamihurricane.com. compiled by

Jennifer Levine

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OPINION

W

e eat many different types of food.

South Florida has probably one of the best climates NIKHIL GHORPADE in the counCONTRIBUTING try for growCOLUMNIST ing just about anything, yet amazingly most of our food comes from almost everywhere except Florida.

Take oranges for example a state symbol. Much of the orange juice consumed in Miami comes from oranges grown in South America or other regions abroad.

This, to me, is ridiculous.

Not only does it seem impracti-

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cal, but it also affects the environment greatly.

Many other foods, like chicken, apples, pasta and corn, come from other parts of America and many times from abroad.

The reason for all this food importation is mostly cost, as it ’s somehow cheaper to get oranges from Brazil.

In other parts of the country like the Northeast, it is impossible to grow many types of plants due to unfavorable climates, and in the winter it is impossible to grow anything. To get food from other parts of the country or abroad seems more logical in those areas. Yet Florida has a yearlong growing season.

My main concern with importing food is the huge amount of energy required for transportation. Another problem

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HURRICANE

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Dredging may degrade environment With the expansion of the Panama Canal comes great responsibility. No, that ’s not exactly how the saying goes, but, in the case of the Port of Miami, it certainly rings true.

With the canal ’s expansion, larger ships will be able to pass through, shifting America ’s trade with East Asia largely to ports on the Atlantic coast. To accommodate these ships, the Port of Miami will undergo dredging to increase its depth to 52 feet from its current depth of 42 feet.

Authorities say that the project should open up the Port of Miami, the southernmost port in the continental United States, to increased trade. Projections show that more than 30,000 new jobs could be created in South Florida.

However, dredging in the Port of Miami has an extremely iffy history. In 1999, three acres of seagrass that were prime for manatees to inhabit were gouged from a nearby aquatic preserve; in 2005, beds of seagrass and coral reefs were mistakenly covered with silt. None of the above bodes well for the upcoming project.

Warnings from environmentalists in the past have not always panned out. For example, after 2005, the seagrass and reefs showed no

The Miami

com

OPINION

“

... we will only get a new drop of oil rather than a full flood if offshore sites are opened.

with importing large quantities of food is that more farmers in Florida lose their profits and their jobs, harming our economy.

The best way to curb this trend is to buy local and support Florida farmers to diversify the types of crops they grow. This helps the environment by limiting the amount of fossil fuels burned through transportation of food. Also, if farmers plant different crops to fill the need of a varied diet, the soil in farming areas will not get degraded.

Buying local food can also cost more. However, in the long run, importing food will cost the environment a lot more.

Nikhil Ghorpade is a sophomore majoring in public relations, and ecosystem science and policy.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexa Lopez

BUSINESS MANAGER Isabel Gonzalez

MANAGING EDITOR Kyli Singh

ADVERTISING EDITOR Demi Rafuls

ART DIRECTOR Allison Goodman

ACCOUNT REPS Valerie Andrade Cristian Benavides Melissa Castillo Danica Jones Tara Kleppinger

PHOTO EDITOR Cayla Nimmo NEWS EDITOR Alysha Khan ASST. NEWS EDITOR Jonathan Borge

PUBLIC RELATIONS James Borchers

OPINION EDITOR Darci Miller

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Maria Jamed

EDGE EDITOR Margaux Herrera SPORTS EDITOR Ernesto Suarez COPY CHIEF Stephanie Parra

FINANCIAL ADVISER Robert DuBord FACULTY ADVISER Bob Radziewicz

COPY EDITORS Spencer Dandes Nicky Diaz Tasha Giuda DESIGNERS Carlos Mella Mariah Price Demi Rafuls ONLINE EDITOR Amilynn Soto WEBMASTER Amanda Zacharkiewicz

To reach a member of the staff visit themiamihurricane.com’s contact page. ©2011 University of Miami The Miami Hurricane is published semi-weekly during the regular academic year and is edited and produced by undergraduate students at the University of Miami.

The publication does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of advertisers or the university’s trustees, faculty or administration. Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of The Hurricane’s Editorial Board.

Commentaries, letters and cartoons represent only the views of their respective authors. The newsroom and business office of The Hurricane are located in the Norman A. Whitten University Center, Room 221.

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Letters to the editor may be submitted typed or handwritten (please make your handwriting legible) to the Whitten University Center, Room 221, or mailed to P.O. Box 248132, Coral Gables, FL, 33124-6922. Letters, with a suggested length of 300 words, must be signed and include a copy of your student ID card, phone number and year in school.

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Offshore drilling will not solve oil crisis

I

t does not take a genius to figure out that we have a fuel crisis on our hands, with gas prices still incredibly high and America GAURAV still looking for DHIMAN solutions to its enSENIOR ergy problems.

COLUMNIST One solution is offshore oil drilling, especially on America ’s own shores. It should increase our supply of “home-grown ” oil and lower the price of gasoline.

Do not be mistaken. This is the most pressing environmental issue on our doorstep, with the Obama ad-

ministration ’s acquiescence to allow some offshore drilling, which had been banned for many years, and Republicans pushing for more.

We know several reasons for why offshore drilling is not the answer, apart from the obvious threat of oil spills like the recent BP disaster.

First of all, gas prices will probably decrease, but not very significantly. Our consumption of oil is so grand that we will only get a new drop of oil rather than a full f lood if offshore sites are opened.

Offshore drilling is not going to reduce our dependence on foreign oil significantly. Foreign countries, especially in the Middle East, produce so much oil that they are easy trading

partners. With our current energy policy, we will continue to purchase from these countries.

Most importantly, simply opening up offshore sites without finding a long-term energy policy will only stop our bleeding temporarily, which will come back even stronger the next time that an oil crisis hits.

It is time to stop dilly-dallying on a robust energy policy. Past generations have been too lazy and there is no guarantee that future generations will pick up the slack.

We only have the present to make sure that things get done, so let ’s get them done.

Gaurav Dhiman is a senior majoring in biology and political science.

CARTOON BY COOPER COPETAS

Dorm life must include conservation effort

L

iving away from home in a dorm comes with many responsibilities, like cleaning up your own room, doing laundry and makTAYLOR DUCKETT ing sure that all of CONTRIBUTING your homework is COLUMNIST done.

In addition, we all have another responsibility that we may not be aware of: energy conservation. Some may think that since they aren ’t the ones paying the electric bill, it isn ’t their problem, but that is wrong.

There is no need to be wasteful just because we can; we need to work toward fixing the planet not only for ourselves but for future generations as well.

Believe it or not, there are ways

to be green while living in a dorm.

One way is to unplug electronics when they aren ’t in use. When you have, for example, a charger plugged into a power outlet, it still consumes energy, even if your phone is not attached to the other end.

The same holds true for a power strip or surge protector. Unless it is powering a utility such as a refrigerator that should not be left unplugged, turn it off. Not only are you saving energy, but you are also lessening the risk of an electrical fire.

Another big energy waster is the television. I ’ll admit I am one who can ’t fall asleep without the television on in the background. Instead of leaving the TV running all night, a good solution is setting a sleep timer.

Most new televisions have them, and they are not that difficult to set up. You can find the sleep timer op-

tion in the menu settings.

Also, water conservation is key. It ’s okay to take a nice relaxing shower, but try to keep it to a reasonable time limit so your water use is lessened. You can also save water by condensing laundry into fewer loads or trying not to do laundry every week.

One way to do that is to purchase color catchers, so that you can wash everything together (yes, they really work).

One last energy conservation tip is to make use of the recycling bins around campus. They are all right next to the trash cans, so it ’s not like recycling is a huge burden; just stop being lazy and do the right thing. If we don ’t go green today, there will be little if anything left for the future.

Taylor Duckett is a freshman majoring in chemistry.

American dream, while staying green

S

cene: saw grass blows in the wind, swamp water effortlessly and flawlessly reflects the sky and the occasional bubble at the surface indicates an alligator in the water ’s depths. This is the scene we call our home.

Oh, wait. No it ’s not. Fast-forward 100 years, past the draining of ALLISON GOODMAN the Everglades, the construction of ART DIRECTOR canals to redirect water flow and the development of a more expansive Miami-Dade County.

Shrubbery has since transformed into high rises, swampland into single-family homes and saw grass into your residential lawn.

Yes, your residential lawn. You know the one – the one that brings you stress trying to maintain it in Miami, the one that is actually invasive.

Somehow, our society places value on this 10-by-8 parcel of cut green, symbolic of the American “dream, ” and, similarly, American consumption. It frames your driveway, where two oversized vehicles beg for a steady stream of imported gasoline.

You ’re not to blame. There ’s no reversing it. Our economy ’s reliance on oil and gas and the related inefficient public transportation system dictate this aesthetic value.

But there ’s a problem. Zoom into our university ’s campus, where the manmade Lake Osceola sits at the center, bordered by, you guessed it, grass. This body of water, like most others in our beloved South Florida, is ultimately connected to Biscayne Bay by the maze of canals – can you say “Tragedy of the Commons? ” Keeping this lakeside green alive is no easy feat. Sitting on any set of gliders and gazing across the water, it ’s not unusual to see a worker, either in a motorboat or on shore, spraying the grass with what appears to be fertilizer or herbicide.

Fertilizer, because it ends up in rainwater runoff, is one of the culprits behind oxygen depletion in our iconic lake. This is an outcome of the influx of nutrient levels brought on by the runoff, which causes the phytoplankton to overproduce.

The consequence? That rotten egg smell wafting into unhappy noses when the microorganisms die. The school has installed oxygen bubblers at each end of the lake in an attempt to counter this effect. This is not a preventative measure, as it should be.

Physical oceanography professor Donald Olson recommends putting in buffer areas where runoff is impounded and boarder plants are used to take up the nutrient load.

A preemptive solution is also possible, however. The school can also “lower use of fertilizers and dependence on newer formulations that retain nutrients in the lawn turf, instead of releasing them into runoff, ” according to Olson.

Our lake deserves attention and care. Let ’s not prescribe to American values about the residential lawn, but rather model our campus after an edited version of the scene we once called our home.

Allison Goodman is a junior majoring in ecosystem science and policy, and women ’s and gender studies.

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OPINION

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Although once commonly seen sunbathing in front of the Rat, alligators and crocodiles are now rare. This may have been the result of UM installing bars across the culverts, which are the circular structures that channel water. Unfortunately, this addition also restricted access to manatees, which no longer call Osceola their home.

Endangered American crocodiles have also been spotted. A few years ago, two lived in the lake. In 2008, however, local high school students killed and mutilated one of them. The body was found without a head or tail. The students have since been prosecuted.

UM’S BACKYARD Scattered along the shore, red mangroves provide a shelter for aquatic life and are vital for stabilizing the shore. Tall arching roots, known as prop roots, distinguish this species and provide air to the roots anchored beneath the water. In other spots along the lake, the placement of rocks maintain the shoreline in its place.

A closer look at what lurks beneath the surface

BY ALLISON GOODMAN | ART DIRECTOR

n occasional splash or a sunbathing turtle hint at life beneath the surface of Lake Osceola. The man-made Osceola, located at the center of campus, is ultimately connected to Biscayne Bay by a series of canals, which also fill the lake. Named after a Seminole chief in 1926 by UM’s Iron Arrow Honor Society before it a lake as it is today, the dredged-out lake is 64 years old. Here’s a look at what’s lurking in the depths of the lake.

Tides occur twice daily and cause a one-foot depth change.

There is also a seasonal tide, contributing an additional foot annually – water levels are highest in October and lowest in April.

Osceola supports a number of fish species including mullet and jacks, which are commonly seen jumping above the water; to mosquito fish, found along the edges of the lake; to various cichlids, which nest in the canal bisecting the freshmen towers.

Why do the mullet and jacks jump?

Unfortunately, this question isn ’t easily answered.

“I think the mullet jump to avoid predators that chase them to the surface and the jacks jump going after the mullet, ” said Dan DiResta, a biology professor with a concen-

tration in conservation and restoration biology.

However, Donald Olson, a physical oceanography professor, has noted that although other fish jump to avoid predators, the ones in Osceola jump vertically. This would not be an effective means of avoiding predators. Instead, he believes that jumping helps remove parasites. Neither theory has been proven.

Not all the fish are friendly. Barracudas can be seen feasting on the cichlids ’ nests.

Other predatory fish include the snook and tarpon.

“The lake is interesting in the sense that it is brackish and supports both fresh and saltwater species, ” Olson said.

Plant life includes benthic algae and phytoplankton, which give the water its green coloring. The heterotrophic, or non-photosynthetic, bacteria in the lake can be identified by the rotten egg smell they emit. An overproduction of the phytoplankton, and their ultimate decomposition, results in the lake ’s oxygen depletion.

Drawing is not to scale.

Most of the lake is only one or two meters deep.

Although bird populations have seen a reduction in recent years, wading birds such as herons, egrets and gallinules can still be seen.

The American white ibis, UM ’s mascot, can be distinguished by its curved, burntorange beak. Juvenile ibises have a brown plumage. The species is known for being the last living creature to take cover before a hurricane hits, and the first to return when the storm passes.

Water moccasins, also known as cottonmouths, are venomous snakes, whose bites can be fatal. The semi-aquatic viper is known for being aggressive, and for its ability to swim in calm waters. If threatened, it may aggressively approach and latch onto the intruder. It is often seen near the east side of the lake and can be identified by its distinctive triangularshaped head.

Junior Cory Hood, who is majoring in ecosystem science and policy, spotted one amidst the rocks beside Eaton Residential College last spring.

“I thought it was a little disconcerting that it was on campus. I ’m now hesitant to walk near the area, or when I do, I always keep my eyes open, just in case, ” she said.

During the rainy season, the salinity level can drop to below 15 parts per thousand, which is common for brackish waters, like estuaries.

According to Olson, however, the lake can also become as salty as the ocean during extreme drought periods.

“The problem is caused, in large part, by the fertilizer run off from the campus lawns and from the golf courses up stream on the Coral Gables waterway, ” Olson said.

Oxygen bubblers have been installed at either end of the lake in an attempt to counter the problem. Cobb fountain, located at the heart of the lake, also helps to oxygenate the water.

“The lake is aerated … to mix the bottom water up to the surface and prevent the bottom from becoming anoxic, ” DiResta said.

UM hopes to stunt macro-algae growth and remove trash by sweeping the surface of the lake with a small motorboat.

“It is not clear if this is very effective since it disturbs the bottom sediments and adds to lake turbidity, ” Olson said.

Olson has also noted the application of what he believes to be herbicide along the shore. Facilities Administration personnel have not confirmed this.

Muddy sediment sits on the floor, which rises slightly at the center, and is surrounded by freshwater algae.

According to DiResta, this slight rise is a result of all the years of UM ’s traditional boat burning, which occurs during Homecoming.

ILLUSTRATION BY ALLISON GOODMAN

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Looking to learn more about environmental issues?

Be sure to attend the 2011 Miami & the Beaches Environmental Film Festival held from Thursday until Sunday. For more information, visit mbenvironmentalfilmfestival.org.

THE

M U RET

O B R A

BY MARGAUX HERRERA EDGE EDITOR

If you are familiar with the John C. Gifford Arboretum, chances are you ’ve either slaved away too long in a physics or chemistry lab, or you ’ve strolled out there for a late night hook-up. But the Arboretum has more to offer than a dark secluded corner or a break from crunching data.

Located on the northwest side of campus, adjacent to the Knight Physics building, University of Miami ’s Arboretum was planted in 1947 and named after Gifford, a former professor of tropical forestry. The garden now boasts more than 400 species of plants. Many of the native species attract local birds and in10

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“It ’s a nice break when you ’re studying hard, ” said Steve Pearson, the newly appointed Arboretum director. “The Arboretum is a very peaceful, beautiful place. Communing with nature is very relaxing and it ’s a healthy, beautiful thing to do. ” The Arboretum is not filled with just typical native plants. The Maya Cocoa Garden has trees like the Maya Popcorn tree and the Ice Cream Bean tree, whose names are enough to make you hungry.

If you are actually hungry though, the Arboretum is filled with edible plants, like white and black sapote, dragonfruit and key limes. Pearson warns visitors not to eat anything unless they are completely

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sure of what the plant is, or they have a guide with them.

Over the years, the arboretum has survived multiple attempts to remove the plants for construction. Most recently, the Coral Gables Commission voted in favor of creating a road through campus to ease traffic off San Amaro Drive. The plans, however, have been postponed indefinitely.

“It ’s my hope that we ’ve put the parking issue to bed forever, ” Pearson said.

The Friends of the Arboretum host monthly meetings and feature guest lecturers. In December, they will host their annual Arboretum picnic.

For more information, visit bio.miami.edu/arboretum or call 305-284-3973.

PHOTOS BY CAYLA NIMMO

LANDSCAPE: The Arboretum was named after John C. Gifford, a UM professor.

We need to wake up to what plants do for us in the world, cherish them and understand them.

Steve Pearson Arboretum director

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COOKING

STUDENT LIFE

Farmers Market boosts healthy lifestyle

BY MARGAUX HERRERA EDGE EDITOR

PHOTOS BY MARLENA SKROBE

Rare recipes, the right way

BY MARLENA SKROBE PHOTO EDITOR

Lionfish is a genus of venomous marine fish normally found in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean. They are known for their unusual fan shaped pectoral fins and spiky striped dorsal fins that mimic the lion ’s mane. Their unusual spines are what make them a unique treat for divers and snorkelers

in the ocean, but these spines also serve as an important defense mechanism against predators: they emit extremely painful, but nonfatal, venom. Lionfish rely on their camouflage to catch prey, which usually include smaller fish and shrimp. In the Pacific, they have very few natural predators, but they are not a major stressor on underwater ecosystems because their population is under control.

A number of restaurants now feature lionfish on the menu.

Place butter, Lionfish filet, sliced onion, squash, zuccini and carrots with a squeeze of lime in a piece of aluminum foil and place over a fire for around six to eight minutes. Serve with a roll (so you can dip it in the sauce).

It ’s always the same old story. You want to start eating better, but after a long day you inevitably find yourself stuck on campus calling a honey bun from the vending machine “dinner. ” Well, things are about to get a little easier because a new group is coming to campus that will help take the guess work out of eating right. Farm Fresh Miami, a South Florida produce-buying club that sorts and packages organic produce for delivery, is creating a new pick-up location at the UM Farmers Market.

“I want to make it really convenient for the UM community to receive produce, ” Farm Fresh Miami creator Erika Lisman said.

On Wednesday, Lisman and her friend Martina Hamlin took signatures at the Farmers Market to gauge interest, as well as to inform the UM community about what exactly a produce-buying club is.

“Many people are scared of the commitment, ” Hamlin said. “It ’s intimidating to hear about, but as soon as you see a bag you want to do it. ” These magic goodie bags are filled with a variety of vegetables including assorted greens, broccoli and more.

Right now, the local harvest season is just beginning. Since it will last for about six to seven months, the group is encouraging the local community to take full advantage of it. According to Lisman, eating food that was grown just a few miles away as opposed to 1,500 miles away makes a difference to your diet and the economy.

“You ’re empowering local farmers and pumping local money into local initiatives, ” Lisman said.

Lisman also hopes to get students to sign up for different positions to assist with sorting, which will allow them to get a free bag of produce.

“Produce clubs save your money because you can eat organically for a lot less than you would otherwise, ” she said. “Even if you don ’t believe in green movements, it just makes more sense and the food tastes better. ”

Place sticky rice on seaweed wrap. Place raw lionfish filet, thin long sliced carrots, cucumber, raw turnip and fresh basil leaf. Roll tight, and serve with soy sauce and wasabi.

First make your own bread by combining equal parts white and whole wheat (two cups), pinch of salt, two tablespoons of olive oil and about 1/2 cup of water. Mix together to a firm dough consistency. Flatten dough with rolling pin or bottle and place in a hot non-greased pan a couple of minutes on each side. Spice Lionfish filets with lemon pepper and grill till golden brown on each side. Wrap fish, lettuce, tomato, black olives, thin carrot and onion slices in the wrap.

Make a dressing out of equal parts olive oil and apple cider vinegar with salt pepper and fresh thyme. Shake vigorously in a bottle and pour in the wrap.

RECIPES COURTESY LIONFISHHUNTER.COM

ALEXANDRA LEON // The Miami Hurricane

SELLING TO STUDENTS: Junior Mister Helman learns more about Farm Fresh Miami, a club that sorts and packages organic produce for delivery, from founder Erika Lisman.

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home-winning streak for the volleyball team that was snapped during the Canes 3-1 loss on Sunday

“

We have to get better, we’re not a finished product yet as of right now.

-AL GOLDEN, HEAD COACH

”

FITNESS

Taking the fast track to a good workout The Loop offers convenient method for students, faculty to stay in shape

BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SPORTS EDITOR

When it comes to getting a good workout on campus, there aren ’t too many options that are much more convenient than the Wellness Center.

With an exuberant amount of cardio machines and an indoor track, it ’s a great spot to take advantage of on campus.

But for those looking to get a good workout outdoors, there ’s nothing as close or convenient than running what students and faculty alike have come to refer to as “the loop. ” The loop is essentially a track that runs entirely around campus.

Though there are a few different routes that can be taken, traditionally it goes from the Alex Rodriguez Park all the way to the School of Communication, around the back of Doctors Hospital and back through Ponce De Leon Blvd.

The 2.88-mile track is an option for those who want to get in their dose of cardio for the day while enjoying some of the great weather South Florida has to offer.

“The loop is probably the most popular running route on campus for students, ” senior Brian Moschetti said.

“During the heat of the day, it ’s probably not as big, but in the morning or evening you ’ll see plenty of students out there. ” Part of the loop ’s appeal, apart from being able to run outside, is that it can be done at any time.

“It never closes. I can run it at 1 a.m. if I wanted, ” Moschetti said.

It ’s hard to deny the level of accessibility this trail gives to students, faculty and community members alike.

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“I run it because it ’s convenient and I love this campus, ” senior Matthew Gabrielli said.

Although the traditional route might include running along the backside of Doctors Hospital, there are a few ways of making the trail unique and adopting it to fit different running styles.

Some beginning runners might want to ignore the hospital route altogether, or cut across campus on some portions.

Those looking for a difficult run might take the trail multiple times, or include the outskirts of the University Village and Red Road into their runs.

Running the loop is a popular way to get in your workout for the day, whether it be preparing for a 5k, beating a personal time or just looking to get out of the dorm room for a little while.

For some, it might also provide some

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temporary stress relief too.

“It ’s very relaxing and an easy way to get things off your mind, ” Moschetti said. “If I have a test to study for sometimes I run it to get my mind off it. ” Of course, the nearly three-mile run might seem like a challenge to inexperienced runners thinking about taking it on for their first time.

However, Moschetti argues that once that first run is finished, it becomes easier and more enjoyable.

“If you ’re not a runner, just try it. If you get two or three runs under your belt, you ’re good to go for the next four years. Plus, its good to see the other side of campus, ” he said.

GRAPHIC BY CARLOS MELLA

WAYS TO RUN THE LOOP Running the “traditional” route along campus and around Doctors Hospital.

Skipping over Doctors Hospital and going straight through Granada Blvd.

Including the University Village and Red Road into the run.

Running up and down the Ponce Garage before finishing the route on Ponce De Leon Blvd.

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SOCCER

FOOTBALL

Hurricanes hustle Heels Heels, remains largely unstoppable.

Rises in production from the usual suspects, such as Miller and wide receiver Travis Benjamin, have been matched by breakout performances

BY AUSTEN GREGERSON from junior Tommy Streeter and SENIOR SPORTS WRITER Allen Hurns, both factoring into With Miami ’s 30-24 victory the successes of Harris and the over North Carolina on the road, Hurricanes offense as a whole. disaster has been avoided – for now.

Golden and offensive The score would end up closer coordinator Jedd Fisch have lately than their riotous start would entail, been able to rely on the arm and with the Canes (3-3, 1-2) at one point decision-making of Harris, but last up 27-10 on the Tar Heels (5-2, 1-2) Saturday ’s absence of production 27-3 late in the second quarter. But from the running back position was the game ended with Miami ’s first a surprise, but possibly not a shock. win in Chapel Hill, first conference With many of their early play calling win of the season and head coach Al based on stretching out the UNC Golden ’s first ACC win of his career. defensive front laterally, rather than Quarterback take on players Jacory Harris led such as 6-foot-6the offense to fiveinch, 290-pound STATS FROM THE straight scoring defensive end GAME drives to start the Quinton Coples, game, finishing Miami instead J. HARRIS (12) with three tried to create 20/30; 267 yds.; 3 TDs touchdowns and space through 267 yards passing screen passes T. BENJAMIN (3) on the day. But and Wildcat 8 REC; 99 yds.; 1 TD after scoring 27 formations to points in the first T. STREETER (8) catch the Tar half, the Canes Heels off guard.

4 REC; 89 yds.; 1 TD recorded only two “It was by first downs in the design early in second half. the game that we Most notable for his absence went to the pass as much as we did, from production was Lamar Miller. and to [North Carolina ’s] credit, The sophomore running back gained when we tried to go back to the run just 29 yards, the first time all season we couldn ’t, ” Golden said. “And by Miller failed to eclipse the 100-yard virtue of not being able to do that rushing mark. we elongated the game. To me it “I ’d like to get [Miller] 100 was just a couple of plays where a yards every game, but if we can get guy was getting beat, because the 27 points in the first half I ’d rather individual matchups where difficult get 27 points, ” Golden said. “We for some guys. ” were executing, we were taking With their win coupled with what they were giving us early on, a loss from their current week ’s and we were converting on it. It ’s opponent, Georgia Tech, the hard to look back and second guess slimmest of hopes still remain on it. ” for Miami to reach the program ’s While Miller ’s streak of 100- first ACC Championship Game, yard rushing efforts ended, another which pending possible NCAA offensive streak lives on. violations, may be the Hurricane ’s Harris again threw no last opportunity for some time. interceptions, his third-straight Golden has refused to think game. During that span Harris about the future beyond the Yellow passed for more than 700 yards and Jackets as of now, but from what eight touchdowns, with the offense the recent past has shown; those scoring at least 30 points in each aspirations may not quite be contest. farfetched – but certainly far from Now emphatically indifferent known. to the swirl of opinion around him, “We have to get better, we ’re from fans and media alike, Harris not a finished product yet as of continues to lead an offensive right now. But that ’s the good news; attack that, with the exception of as a team we ’re still evolving, still the second half against the Tar growing, still getting better. ”

Miami wins first ACC game of year

ZACH BEEKER // The Miami Hurricane

GOTTA KICK IT UP: Junior midfielder Kim Hutchinson hustles to gain possession of the ball during Sunday’s contest against the Terrapins. The Canes went on to win the game 2-1.

Canes wrap up final homestand Miami wins two straight against ranked opponents

BY KRISTEN SPILLANE STAFF WRITER

Neither torrential rain nor driving wind could dampen the Hurricane spirit as the University of Miami soccer team closed out their home season with a hard fight against Maryland.

Sunday ’s victory, following a 3-2 upset over Boston College Thursday, closed out the Hurricane ’s homestand with just two losses on the season at Cobb Stadium.

Thursday ’s pregame ceremony celebrated seniors Vikki Alonzo, Ashlee Burt and Brooke Van Aman.

“Four years goes by fast, you really don ’t realize how quickly it goes by, ” said Van Aman, “You really have to cherish every moment. ” Senior goalkeeper Alonzo offered a few words of wisdom.

“Don ’t waste a minute, every time you step in the field, you have to give it your all, ” she said.

Sidelined for the 2011 season, senior midfielder Burt has assumed a leadership role in supporting her team.

“Soccer has always been my passion and my family has always been such a great support system for me, ” Burt said.

Maryland took an early lead with midfielder Olivia Wagner ’s free kick goal. The Hurricanes would not be discouraged but instead incited by the deficit.

Though the Terrapins maintained possession for a majority of the game, the Hurricanes made up for it with high-intensity play. Aggressive defense and controlled passes from junior defender Ali Brennan helped to ignite the Hurricane offense and clear the ball into the Maryland end.

In a tremendous display of athleticism and focus, Alonzo fended off a flurry of shots and rebound attempts from Maryland forwards, giving her team an offensive opportunity.

With precision and quickness, Miami moved the ball up the field through the efforts of junior forward Kate Howarth and sophomore defender Tara Schwitter. Miami tied the game with a goal buried in the back of the net by Howarth in the thirty-eighth minute off a deflected shot by junior midfielder Kim Hutchinson.

Miami entered the second half tied with Maryland 1-1. Despite a lightning watch delay, the Canes came out fighting. In the sixty-second minute, Howarth gave Miami a 2-1 lead with a header goal off a corner kick by Schwitter. The goal marked Howarth ’s ninth of the season as she leads the team in goals scored.

The rain continued to fall but the intensity of both teams was not affected in the least. As the half ticked away, both Miami and Maryland fought hard to maintain control of the ball.

The Hurricanes proved to be too much for the Terrapins as the final seconds ticked away and solidified the Miami ’s 2-1 win.

FINISH READING AT THEMIAMIHURRICANE.COM

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CANES REPORT CARD

Performance Report

Sports editor Ernesto Suarez grades Miami’s performance against the Tar Heels this past Saturday in Chapel Hill.

Final Score: Hurricanes 30, Tar Heels 24

Hurricanes @ Tar Heels

Quarterbacks Running Backs Wide Receivers/ Tight Ends Offensive Line Defensive Line Secondary Special Teams Coaching

A+

CA B

B-

CD B+

VISIT THEMIAMIHURRICANE.COM FOR A MORE DETAILED ANALYSIS OF THE GAME 14

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dear ...

Dear V: Free love doesn’t mean free sleep... , My roommate loves bringing home different guys - and whatever, that doesn ’t bother me. Great for her. But here ’s the problem: The walls in our house are super thin. And she is so loud, to the point where I can ’t sleep and it ’s starting to really piss me off. I ’ve even tried to sleep with headphones but it just doesn ’t work. How do I bring this up to her without being awkward or insulting her?

Severely Sleep Deprived Dear Sandman ‘s Shit List, It ’s always annoying when you ’re trying to get a good night ’s sleep only to be kept awake all night by the sounds of two hee-hawing donkeys rutting in the room next door, but of course we all understand that this is the price you sometimes pay when living with someone who is young, single and free-spirited. At least thank your lucky stars that you don ’t live in a dorm room, then

you would have to watch them do it, as many of my constituents on campus tell me they ’ve had to bear such an unfortunate witness.

As I can see, you ’ve been trying to prevent yourself from playing the “hater ” card, and that ’s what you should do if these episodes are only intermittent, but when she can ’t even keep her legs closed long enough to put on a pair of jeans, it ’s time to have a talk.

Let me warn you in advance that no matter what, “the talk ” is going to be awkward. After all, you ’re reminding her of her incessant promiscuity and shrieks of pleasure so loud they would impress an alphorn player.

Try not to be too bold, but this is one of those instances that you can ’t beat around the bush (because several guys already have).

Just approach her and say, as professionally as you can, “Your sex life is causing me to lose sleep. ” Remind her that it ’s her life, and if she wants to have sex with any tick that latches on to her it ’s ultimately her decision, but you have a right to sleep in relative peace. Tell her that you ’ve tried to solve this problem on your own, but to no avail. Be sure you ’re pleasant and avoid any bickering or

finger-pointing; the last thing you want to do is encourage her to continue her yodeling sessions.

If she doesn ’t want to be a good sport, then I would suggest bringing a friend of your own over to ruin her slumber. You don ’t even have to really have sex if you don ’t want to, just pretend you are (see “When Harry Met Sally ” for inspiration).

If her mornings are always easy (like her nights apparently are), try doing it while she ’s trying to study or read during the day. Hopefully it doesn ’t come to this point, but sometimes you really do have to fight fire with fire. If none of this works, just get some of that medicine with Abe Lincoln, the Diver and the talking Beaver in the commercials (the Beaver that can talk without Mel Gibson ’s help).

Oh and umm …sorry you didn ’t get any sleep last Saturday, V Have a question for V? Hit up DearV@themiamihurricane. com.

GOT AN ACHY, BREAKY HEART? WRITE TO DEARV@THEMIAMIHURRICANE.COM FOR ADVICE.

INTERESTED IN SEEING YOUR NAME IN PRINT? WRITE FOR THE MIAMI HURRICANE! For more information, contact the section you’re interested in: news opinion edge sports

}

@themiami hurricane.com

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DEAR V

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