The Miami Hurricane: January 30, 2018

THE GRADES ARE IN Rating Miami starters as team approaches second half of conference play SPORTS // Page 14

A TEAM EFFORT: The Hurricanes backcourt of Bruce Brown Jr. (11), Lonnie Walker IV (4) and Ja’Quan Newton (0) gather together during the team’s 83-75 loss to the No. 5 Duke Blue Devils Jan. 15 at the Watsco Center.

Hunter Crenian // Visuals Editor

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NEWS

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

RELIGIOUS LIFE

Felicia Knaul challenges community to be vocal against injustice at annual Presidential Shabbat

By Kayla Haley Senior News Writer @KaylaOHaley

Presidential Shabbats at UM started nearly 10 years ago with “Shabbat Shalala.” Now, with a new first family at UM, the tradition continued with “Frenk Knaul Shabbat,” where social issues such as injustice and inequality were topics of discussion.

Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, happens every week at the University of Miami Hillel Braman Miller Center; however, on Jan. 26, the center hosted its annual Presidential Shabbat where first lady Felicia Knaul stressed the importance of justice in today’s world.

Knaul and Frenk and continued the annual tradition which began 10 years ago with former UM President Donna Shalala. Every year, the Hillel center hosts the president of the university and family for a Shabbat service and dinner.

Shabbat service ushers in the Jewish Sabbath or day of rest. During the weekly services, candles are lit and music fills the air. Following the service, the evening meal is served and starts with blessings recited over two loaves of challah, special bread in Jewish cuisine typically eaten on ceremonial occasions.

Knaul, UM professor and director of the University of Miami Institute for Advanced Study of the Americas, was asked to read from the Torah.

The passage she read featured one of the few prophetesses in the Torah, and to cap off social

justice week, she had a personal message to add to the reading.

“We are living the ‘Me Too’ moment; a moment that is finally bringing us forward in battles that have gone on for decades and centuries regarding the harassment of women,” she said. “We are finally seeing some justice.”

Knaul challenged the audience to “not accept false leadership” which is grounded in discrimination and abuse regardless of “however white and large the walls that seemingly protect them.”

Referencing earlier verses, Knaul encouraged listeners to “remember to beat our drums to also protect those women, the many who still do not have a drum to beat.”

Frenk’s personal connection to Judaism goes back to his Jewish grandfather, who f led to Mexico from Nazi Germany.

Knaul identifies as a Jewish woman and is the daughter of a Holocaust survivor.

Frenk said he was grateful to have Hillel host him and his family.

“I really value the presence of Hillel and the vibrancy of our Jewish life on campus,” he said.

Junior Jessica Hamorsky, who was attending her first Shabbat, said Frenk’s presence at the service made UM stand out from other universities.

“It shows how much they care about us as students,” said Hamorsky, a double major in vocal performance and music business. “Because I know other universities ... Students don’t get to meet their president.”

Kayla Haley // Contributing Photographer PRESIDENTIAL PRESENCE: University Miami President Julio Frenk and Director of the University of Miami Institute for Advanced Study of the Americas Felicia Knaul engaged with students and continued the decade-long tradition of Presidential Shabbats Friday night at UM.

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

NEWS

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CAMPUS LIFE

Symposium gives students of color a safe space

By Amanda Herrera News Editor news@themiamihurricane.com @_amandaherrera

The Students of Color Symposium touched upon some of the most frustrating issues students of color deal with on a day-to-day basis.

More than 130 students attended the Students of Color Symposium, held on Jan. 27 in the Shalala Student Center Ballrooms, served as a space for students from different backgrounds to congregate and speak about issues and challenges they face. Students could attend a total of three workshops focusing on various hot-button topics, such as toxic masculinity, representation in film and navigating microaggressions and macroaggressions.

Microaggressions is a catchall term for the common, everyday slights that either intentionally or unintentionally convey derogatory messages. Macroaggressions are outright, intentional displays of racism or other discrimination.

Lily AcheampomaaPiasare chose “Melting Pot Cities & Entertainment: Navigating Microaggressions and Macroaggressions for Students” as one of her workshops, the event gave her the opportunity to verbalize thoughts she’s had in the past.

Multimedia artist and motivational speaker Octavia Yearwood led the workshop. She said students can fight against injustice by desegregating themselves.

Yearwood said students of color seem to stick to places and people they are comfortable and familiar with, reinforcing the acceptance of microaggressions.

“That’s something that sort of very much stood out to me,” said Acheampomaa-Piasare, a biology major. “It was something I always thought but never vocalized because it’s weird to say, ‘Hey, guys, let’s branch outside of what we’re used to’ ... If we are really going to make change, we’re not going to make

change by having those discussions with people who already agree with us.”

A c h e a m p o m m a - P i a s a r e, who was born in Ghana, said the symposium gave her the opportunity to share her own experiences in a space where there is “mutual respect.”

“We have to step outside of our comfort zone and talk to people who don’t necessarily agree with us,” she said.

The Multicultural Student Affairs staff developed the idea for the two-day event, which included more than a dozen multicultural speakers, following discussions with students about how to make the university environment more inclusive and invite and uplift students of color.

UM has seen an increase in the number of non-white students past five years. Since 2013, the number of black students attending UM has increased by 10 percent, Hispanic or Latino by 2 percent, Asian/Pacific Islander by 2 percent and students identifying as two or more races by 15 percent. However, the number of students identifying as American Indian has decreased by 24 percent, according to the fall 2017 UM FactBook.

“I can choose to leave...and be in the majority...”

ALEX KLAR “We had been talking to students for quite a while about what can the University of Miami do,” said Renee Callan, director of programs for MSA. “What can our office do that moves forward President Frenk’s agenda of creating a culture of belonging, while also educating each other and providing

Hunter Crenian // Visuals Editor HONESTY TALK: Students Crystal Nattoo and Braylond Howard discuss the importance of racial diversity in the “Superheroes, Video Games, and Sci Fi: Exploring Diversity and Inclusion in Geek Culture” panel of the Students of Color Symposium in the ballroom of the Student Shalala Center Jan. 28.

opportunities for authentic dialogue.”

The event was broken up into three different sections. The first portion of the symposium gave students the opportunity to attend two different workshops. During lunch, the students were able to listen to a Q&A interview with keynote speaker Damon Young, co-founder and editor-in-chief of VerySmartBrothas. For the last portion of the event, students attended one workshop and TED talk style panels focusing on the importance of the minority vote.

Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Ryan Holmes capped off the event with a workshop titled “Tomorrow’s Already Here.”

Though the inaugural event, cochaired by students Amber Tavakoly and Frankie Hedgepeth, intended to attract and invite students of color whose voices are silenced, white students were also encouraged to attend the event.

“We just want to address the nuances of what it means to be a student of color, but it’s not meant

to alienate who don’t identify as students of color at all,” Tavakoly said.

Senior Alex Klar was one of the few white students who attended the symposium. Klar has been involved with the MSA office for years and is the chair of University Roundtable, an organization under MSA that connects student leaders from different backgrounds together to discuss issues and topics important to their specific communities.

Klar, a double major in public health and Spanish, said when he initially started getting involved with different cultures and issues that were different from his own identity, it was “uncomfortable.” However, he said it was a small price to pay.

“You have to think to yourself about every opportunity, every time when you were in a classroom and there was one black kid,” Klar said.

“How did that make them feel?

Maybe they felt welcome, but at the end of the day, they had to keep coming back. I can choose to leave ... And be in the majority and be surrounded by people who mostly

look like me.”

Klar said being one of the few students at the symposium who identified as white allowed him to get an inside perspective on what he can do to be a better ally to the community. He learned about the importance of listening.

He said though UM prides itself on diversity, the truth is “diversity is a stepping stone to actual celebration and feeling safe and appreciated.”

“Events like these are really essential to have those conversations and start activism toward bridging those gaps and actually making fruitful connections instead of just the presence of different people,” Klar said.

Acheampomaa-Piasare said being uncomfortable should not discourage white students from engaging in heavy conversations and attending the symposium in the future.

“See what people have to say, share your experience as well because, honestly, that’s how we all learn in the end,” AcheampomaaPiasare said.

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THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

RELIGIOUS LIFE

Visit to Islamic center leads to interfaith dialogue

By Kayla Haley Senior News Writer @KaylaOHaley

As UM’s Social Justice Week came to a close, students had the opportunity to look past cultural boundaries and learn about Islam, observe an evening of Muslim prayer and share a meal at the Islamic Center of Greater Miami.

Senior Megan Lipsky, the founder and vice president of the Miami Interfaith Council, said the event was a perfect fit for Social Justice Week because it allowed for people from different faith groups to find common ground.

“A lot of religion is teaching people how to be good people ...

How to treat other people with respect and kindness and that is the core of social justice,” said Lipsky, a double major in political science and philosophy.

Ten UM students, alongside clergy and religious leaders, traveled to Miami Gardens to visit the center on Jan. 25, to get an inside look and understanding into worship rituals practiced in the Muslim faith.

The students heard readings from the Quran, witnessed one of the five daily Muslim prayers and shared a meal which was both Halal and Kosher – food that adhered to dietary laws of both Muslims and Jews. There was a conversation at every table about how individual congregations can collaborate on various projects, including starting Arabic classes at a local synagogue and hosting events to help break down religious stereotypes.

The event was part of a larger initiative led by clergy in South Florida to foster a strong multi-faith community and create opportunities to develop understanding and harmony.

In October 2017, a group of Abrahamic clergy from South Florida participated in a threeday, multi-faith conference in Rabat, Morocco, organized by the American Peace Caravan as a part

of the Forum for Peace.

The Caravan brings together triads of Jewish rabbis, Christian pastors and Muslim imams from different cities across the United States for workshops and brainstorming sessions to gain a better understanding of one another and to cross the proverbial lines often drawn in the sand to separate religions.

In the United States, Islam and Judaism are considered minority religions. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 0.9 percent of the total United States population practices Islam – though it is the fastest growing religion in the world – and 1.9 percent practices Judaism. The country’s largest religious group, Christians, represent 70 percent of the population.

Rabbi Lyle Rothman, UM’s on-campus rabbi and chair of the Chaplain’s Association, attended the conference in Rabat. Rothman said events such as the Jan. 25 visit to the Islamic center are the first steps toward a unified community.

“There’s a lot of tension in this world today and the one thing I keep reflecting on is what the psalmist teaches ... This is a world, with God’s help, that will be built on love and kindness,” Rothman said. “It is our responsibility ... To continue to partner with each other.”

Abdul Hamid Samra, Imam and director of religious services at MCA’s Islamic Center of Greater Miami, was “honored and delighted” to welcome people from different faiths to the mosque.

“I hope and pray to God that he will always unite our hearts and bring us together so we can eliminate any kind of misunderstanding, any type of hate or animosity,” said Samra, who is also an adjunct professor of electrical and computer engineering at UM. Khadija Haider, a Ph.D. candidate studying marine biology and ecology at UM, said the event gave her a platform to clarify misunderstandings people may have about her Muslim faith. She was

Kayla Haley// Contributing Photographer INTERFAITH INTERACTIONS: UM Rabbi Lyle Rothman (right), speaks during a visit to the Islamic Center of Greater Miami. The trip was hosted as part of Social Justice Week and united 10 students of different religions to learn about the Muslim faith.

able to interact with non-Muslims and answer questions about Islam in an open way, including dispelling damaging stereotypes.

“Terrorism has no religion,” said Haider, a native of Pakistan. “I believe every religion is about peace

and humanity.”

Each of the faith leaders in attendance said that this is just the beginning of the multi-faith collaboration in South Florida.

The congregations are planning to partner with the city of Miami

Gardens on a community project in the near future.

“It is our responsibility to look beyond the yarmulkes ... Beyond the hijab ... Beyond the cross and look deeper into their souls,” Rothman said.

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

NEWS

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STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Student Government seeking more candidates

By Amanda Herrera News Editor news@themiamihurricane.com @_amandaherrera

The deadline to register for Student Government elections is fast approaching. So far, only one ticket has registered to run for the Executive Branch and some senator seats are still up for grabs.

The University of Miami’s Student Government elections are right around the corner, but election officials are having a hard time getting students to register for the various available positions.

Junior Luis Goberna, elections commission chairman, said since last year, they’ve seen a drop in interest. In 2017, the

university only saw one ticket run for executive seats against an independent filer – who later dropped – running for president.

Aaron King, then a sophomore, ran independently with no treasurer or vice presidential running mates against current Student Government President Adrian Nuñez and his running mates, Vice President Coleman Reardon and Treasurer Emily Bajalia. King withdrew from the race after contracting pneumonia, since he “would not be healthy by election day,” he said.

The deadline to register to run for a position in Student Government is 5 p.m. Jan. 31.

However, some seats still remain uncontested or with vacant

registrations. Only one ticket has registered to run for the executive seats, which include president, vice president and treasurer.

On the senate side, there are a total of eight seats up for election.

The Business School, School of Communications and Transfer seats have at least one person running for each. However, only two people have signed up for the three available Commuter Senator seats and only one person has registered to run for the two open College of Arts and Sciences seats.

Goberna said Student Government is advertising the election registration dates on more than 10 platforms, including the Student Government Facebook page, Ibis News and TV screens in

the campus dining halls, Housing and Residential Life and the Shalala Student Center.

“It’s not so much that students don’t know,” Goberna said. “It’s more the lack of interest, unfortunately ... It’s not only something university Student Government struggles with, it happens in real-world government. You see that youth turnout rates in elections, not even midterms, but in presidential ones they turn out to be real low.”

Goberna spent last week tabling in the University Center Breezeway, in an attempt to attract eligible students to register for open positions, but in the end, he just ended up giving away a lot of free pizza.

“Students would stop by and

they would talk, but at the end of the day, they wouldn’t follow up,” he said.

As time is ticking to register, Goberna said he encourages students to run for seats with and without someone on the ballot.

“That shouldn’t discourage you from running,” Goberna said.

“If you want to make a difference, go for it. Just see this as another challenge to overcome.”

Students can file to run at sg.miami.edu/vote.

Elections will be held Feb. 12-14. Results will be announced at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 15.

Students with questions about the upcoming Student Government elections can contact Goberna at sgelections@miami. edu.

NEWS BRIEFS Safety in 60 Minutes Here in Miami, hurricanes aren’t the only threat to safety. The Office of Emergency Management will inaugurate its new safety training class – AllHazards Response Training: Safety in 60 Minutes. The hourlong training will focus on providing emergency response information to the most common hazards the campus community faces. The training is free and open to everyone.

WHEN: 3-4 p.m. Jan. 31 WHERE: Whitten Learning Center, room 170

Dancing with Dictators: A Family’s Journey from Pre-Castro Cuba to Exile in the Turbulent Sixties

The University of Miami will host Luis Santeiro, a Cuban who moved to Miami at the age of 12, for a book talk regarding his family’s experience in fleeing Fidel Castro’s communist regime and relocating to the United States.

Santeiro won 20 Emmy Awards as a writer for Sesame Street and one as head writer for ¿Qué Pasa, U.S.A? the first bilingual sitcom on national television.

WHEN: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 31 WHERE: Robert and Judi Prokop Newman Alumni Center, 6200 San Amaro Dr.

FunDay 2018 FunDay, the longest standing service day at the University of Miami, will be returning for another year of service.

Hundreds of UM students participate in the annual event that brings special needs members of the Miami-Dade community to campus. Each student is paired with a “buddy” to participate in activities, such as karaoke and field events.

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 3 WHERE: UM Coral Gables Campus

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OPINION

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

Opinion

The Miami

HURRICANE Founded 1929 An Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame Newspaper NEWSROOM: 305-284-4401 editor@themiamihurricane.com BUSINESS OFFICE: 305-284-4401 FAX: 305-284-4404 For advertising rates call 305-284-4401 or fax 305-284-4404.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Isabella Cueto MANAGING EDITOR Annie Cappetta SENIOR EDITOR Elizabeth Gelbaugh NEWS EDITOR Amanda Herrera OPINION EDITOR Grace Wehniainen EDGE EDITOR Haley Walker SPORTS EDITOR Isaiah Kim-Martinez VISUALS EDITOR Hunter Crenian PHOTO EDITOR Amanda Prats ART DIRECTOR Emily Dulohery DESIGNERS Beverly Chesser Caitlin Costa Lauren Flaumenhaft Claire Geho

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To reach a member of the staff visit themiamihurricane.com’s contact page.

The Miami Hurricane is published 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 Miami Hurricane’s Editorial Board. Commentaries, letters and cartoons represent only the views of their respective authors.

The newsroom and business office of The Miami Hurricane are located in the Student Activities Center, Student Media Suite 200.

LETTER POLICY The Miami Hurricane encourages all readers to voice their opinions on issues related to the university or in response to any report published in The Miami Hurricane. Letters to the editor may be submitted typed or handwritten to the Student Activities Center, Student Media Suite 200, or mailed to P.O. Box 248132, Coral Gables, Fla., 33124-6922. Letters must be signed with a copy of your Cane Card.

ADVERTISING POLICY The Miami Hurricane’s business office is located at 1330 Miller Drive, Student Activities Center Student Media Suite 200. The Miami Hurricane is published on Thursdays during the university’s fall and spring academic terms. Newspapers are distributed for free on the Coral Gables campus, the School of Medicine and off-campus locations.

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AFFILIATIONS The Miami Hurricane is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and Florida College Press Association.

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

EDITORIAL

Florida’s former felons deserve second chance When it comes to voting, Florida is more than a swing state – it’s a discriminatory one, too.

One in 10 Florida adults – approximately 1.5 million people – cannot vote due to a felony conviction. They might be pastors, veterans or nonprofit leaders – but under current Florida law, they will always be seen as felons first.

This fall, Floridians have the chance to change that by restoring voting rights to former felons.

The Voting Restoration Amendment, or Amendment 4, offers a long-overdue answer to Florida’s unfair treatment of former felons. Unlike other states, such as Maine, where even those still serving time can vote, Florida prevents former felons from voting altogether, unless they embark on a yearslong process to have the chance to regain that right.

After a minimum of five years, freed felons can begin applying to have their civil rights restored. That process, though, includes appearing before the clemency board in Tallahassee – and since the board only comprises of four members, including Gov. Scott, the wait can be prohibitively long.

Under Amendment 4, those who have committed felonies, excluding murderers and sex offenders, would automatically earn back the right to vote, provided they are off parole or probation.

Former felons repeat criminal behavior when they can’t adjust to normal life outside prison walls. A lack of family

support, education, employment and shelter can spur a return to crime, according to the Fortune Society, a nonprofit that advocates for former prisoners.

If they were welcomed back by society, offered steady employment and the chance to enjoy a normal lifestyle – a true second chance – they might be less likely to revert to old habits.

Legal barriers add to the stigma already set forth by social ones. While society might not be able to change overnight, the law certainly can. If Amendment 4

jurisdiction were nonviolent offenders, according to a bulletin by the U.S. Department of Justice. They were convicted of things such as fraud, drug possession and burglary. These are certainly unsavory offenses, but for many, they nonetheless rank a little lower on the scale of moral misgivings.

What’s more, there is precedent for bouncing back post-prison. Tallahassee pastor Gregory James, who went on to lead the congregation at Life Church International Center

If a person is deemed safe enough to re-enter society after serving time, the right to vote should come along with it.

makes a former felon feel even a little more normal, like they’re a true, worthy member of society, might it not direct them down a different path? If you find yourself fighting the idea of such an amendment, it’s worth asking yourself why.

Likely, it has something to do with your moral compass. It makes sense: if a person finds it acceptable to hurt or steal from someone else, do they really deserve the same say come election day? Can we really trust their judgement? But the popular portrayal of felons doesn’t accurately depict every type of offender.

In 2012, 46 percent of felons serving time under state

and champion rights for former felons, served 14 years for selling drugs. As of 2016, he still could not vote.

The “us vs. them” mentality in regard to former felons springs from the view of the legal system as the sole measure of morality.

But people like James, an example of a life turned around if there ever was one, still cannot vote.

The black-and-white view of morality cannot help but gloss over gaps in the justice system.

Some felons were sentenced as children and never got the chance to vote at all, while some were, inevitably, wrongfully convicted.

And many were sentenced on the

basis of discriminatory policing practices.

If a person is deemed safe enough to re-enter society after serving time, the right to vote should come along with it (if the true purpose of prison is, indeed, to reform). The government, after all, doesn’t see them as incapable of society’s other responsibilities, such as paying taxes. In this light, voter disenfranchisement laws can be seen for what they are – purely punitive, a red F on the chest for “felon” that comes with all the responsibilities of citizenship but none of the privileges.

Former felons were prisoners, but they never stopped being people. We constantly call for society to speak up for prison reform, but if we immediately strip the voices and political power from the very people who have the most ethos to do so, we are hurting our chances of really understanding what might make a person commit a crime, and how to help others avoid the same fate.

And if you’re worried that newly-enfranchised voters will rush to the polls and check “yes” for decriminalizing murder and theft, well, the political system clearly doesn’t work like that.

When convicted, felons enter the Department of Corrections, not Condemnation.

Floridians already did one thing right by signing the petition that put Amendment 4 on the ballot; now, do it again. Use your vote to help someone else get theirs.

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

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

OPINION

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STATE

Bright Futures bill promising for in-staters Closure is always good.

Even when it’s not from an ex, but from the unlikely source of the Florida Senate finally making good

By Grace on a promise to Wehniainen increase in-state Opinion Editor scholarship dollars.

This January, the Florida Senate voted “yes” on a bill that would, in part, make permanent the Bright Futures funding boosts students were so tantalizingly teased with last summer. Students at Florida’s public schools had 100 percent of their tuition

covered. However, even eligible in-state students at private schools like University of Miami saw scholarships increase as a part of this deal. Academic Scholars – an award level based on academic and service achievement in high school – saw their per-credit scholarship almost double to $211, while Medallion Scholars, a tier lower, got $77.

The funding was disbursed from the start of this school year, with one little caveat: no one knew if it would be here to stay in future years. If Senate Bill 4, or the Florida Excellence in Higher Education Act, passes through the Florida House, the funding seems set to do just that.

Since the scholarship covers

a relatively small group – fewer education in 2017 – and students than 4,000 students received the ought not feel like they need to Academic Scholars award at all escape it to get a good educaof Florida’s private tion. Now, it is at universities in 2016 least a little easier for them to plant – this change may not be the biggest their roots here.

Why not, policy to ever rock “Brain strain the Coral Gables when it costs even should happen in less than it did campus. But it’s something. the classroom, not before?

The bill inBolstering prothe bank.” cludes funding grams like Bright for need-based Futures gives students more than aid, too, though palm trees and beautiful beaches Bright Futures is clearly its shinto appreciate in their choice to ing point. While more can (and stay in state. The state is home to should) be done to boost needsome renowned schools – Florida based programs, merit and need was named U.S. News and World are not mutually exclusive. TaxReport’s best state for higher payers can be sure that at least

READY TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WORLD? DO THE UNEXPECTED. Connect with a recruiter: peacecorps.gov/recruiters

some of the funding goes to students who truly need it and will use it to make those dreaded make-or-break decisions (Can I even go here? Can I take that extra semester?) a little easier.

While higher education should be hard, the stress and brain strain should happen in the classroom, not the bank. Bright Futures’ new-and-improved funding might just be here to stay and is a positive thing for current and incoming students alike, setting a good precedent for state scholarships to come.

Grace Wehniainen is a junior majoring in motion pictures.

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January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

NATIONAL

New year to turn a hopeful tide for women “Respect my existence or expect resistance.”

This was just one of the phrases inked on thousands of posters seen at

By Dana Munro women’s marchStaff Columnist es across the nation on Jan. 20.

Starting this year off with a battle cry for gender equality inspires one to muse about what lies ahead. There’s been much discussion of 2018 being the “Year of the Woman.” While this term is certainly reductive – implying women’s rights only merit

a single year of advocacy – there is nonetheless hope that this will, in fact, be a year of great strides toward gender equality.

For starters, we have an unparalleled deluge of women running for local and national offices. According to the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers, 397 women are running – or are likely to run – for the U.S. House of Representatives in the upcoming midterm election, with 79 planning to run for governor.

Stirred to action by Trump’s reactionary policies, such as granting employers the right to deny insurance coverage for contraception, women are tenaciously entering the

battleground. It’s plain and simple – no one understands the needs and struggles of women better than women. Though running doesn’t guarantee election, this is a strident move toward equality.

Even outside of Washington, revolutionary women are coming to the forefront. Several of the nation’s largest Fortune 500 companies have recently named women as chief executives, and there is no telling what they will accomplish in 2018. Bozoma Saint John, former marketing executive at Apple Music, was sought after to be the new chief brand officer for Uber in June 2017.

Meanwhile, Rosalind Brewer, former CEO of Walmart’s Sam’s Club and

first African-American or female to ever be a Walmart CEO, took on the role of chief operating officer for Starbucks in September 2017.

We’re seeing women’s stories on the bookshelves this year, too. Meg Wolitzer’s “The Female Persuasion,” the story of a young college student on the cusp of her future; Meaghan O’Connell’s “And Now We Have Everything,” a memoir on unexpected motherhood; and Michelle Dean’s “Sharp,” an investigation into the lives of some of history’s most brilliant minds, including Susan Sontag and Nora Ephron, will all hit bookstores within the next few months.

While, luckily, female authors and stories aren’t necessarily a new

development, these books boast a unique nuance and specificity in dealing with the female experience.

The strongest defense against prejudice is knowledge, and the biggest impact we can make in the world of women’s rights is shining a light on women’s stories. By voicing their concerns in the political arena, guiding some of the nation’s biggest industries and writing about their experiences, women are infusing themselves into the contemporary culture on every front. Year of the woman? No, let’s make this the century of the woman.

Dana Munro is a sophomore majoring in musical theater.

LOCAL

Miami a worthy contender among Amazon finalists Out of countless bids for Amazon HQ2, only 20 remain, and Miami made the cut.

Amazon’s second

By Matthew Brotz headquarters in North America Contributing will cost over $5 Columnist billion to construct and feature up to 50,000 high-paying jobs. The final 20 sites include those you would expect to see make the list – New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles – and a few

surprises, such as Indianapolis, Raleigh and Columbus. But Miami’s spot in the top 20 is a unique mixture of both.

Despite being an international hub, Miami isn’t often associated with the tech industry. The public transportation system is lacking for a bustling metropolitan area of its size, but its cosmopolitan reach strengthens its case. If Miami successfully lands HQ2, Amazon will not only connect with the people and economy of South Florida but also those of Latin America and the Caribbean.

Other contenders, such as Denver and Dallas, fail to draw the same business and tourism from overseas. Having

HQ2 in Miami offers Amazon the opportunity to expand its ever-increasing footprint in North America, as well as to our neighbors to the south, a perk few other contenders offer.

The population of South Florida is booming, while many of the major players in the Northeast are experiencing stagnant population growth. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Miami-Fort LauderdaleWest Palm Beach metropolitan area experienced a population growth of 9 percent between 2010 and 2016, surpassing six million residents in 2016.

Jeff Bezos, the founder and CEO of Amazon and graduate of Miami

Palmetto High School, will likely consider more than what each city presently offers Amazon. He’s going to look at what they have to offer much further into the future. With no reason to believe that the South Florida population boom is going to end anytime soon, Bezos would be setting himself up nicely by picking Miami over, say, Philadelphia. Miami is appreciating in value while others aren’t.

Just like all other cities in contention, Miami is an imperfect candidate. One can point to the insufficient public transportation along with the unbearable traffic, but Miami’s

UM news you should know, delivered straight to your inbox.

It’s that easy.

cosmopolitan nature and rapid growth place it in strong company, even on a list that features metropolitan giants New York and Chicago. Throughout the course of this journey, there have been plenty of naysayers who have diminished Miami’s odds and continue to do so. But even if such pessimists turn out to be right in the end, Miami’s position in the running serves as validation of the region’s economic prowess, as well as a sure sign for a bright future.

Matthew Brotz is a senior majoring in philosophy.

Subscribe @ themiamihurricane.com

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January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

EDGE

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Photo courtesy SHENZI SOULFUL CREW: (From left) Johnathan Hulett, Desiree Bannister, Andrew Novoa, Conor McCarthy and Koa Ho. The five musicians make up SHENZI, and all of them rocked their hearts out at a performance Friday night at local hangout venue Wynwood Yard.

SHENZI Music exudes soul at Wynwood Yard

By Annie Cappetta Managing Editor managing@themiamihurricane.com

SHENZI Music’s concert at Wynwood Yard on Jan. 26 rocked the crowd so intensely that, in the last moments of its set, one audience member was moved to throw her pink, lacy, strapless bra on stage. The fan, Ashley Huergo, graduated from the University of Miami in 2012, and this was her first time seeing SHENZI perform.

Huergo said the restriction of a bra felt wrong in the presence of such open, genuine musicians.

“So I was like f**k this, they deserve it,” Huergo said.

SHENZI Music formed in November 2016 when then UM graduate student and percussionist Jonathan Hulett needed to fulfill an ensemble credit for his degree. He asked his adviser if

he could assemble his own band and contacted each member individually. The same day, every member agreed to collaborate with him and SHENZI was born.

Hulett said he was looking for something more than just talent in the musicians he asked to join.

“I’m a good judge of character and work ethic,” Hulett said.

“Everyone’s talented, you know.

It’s easy to find talent.”

Des Bannister, the band’s lead vocalist and graduate student in the Arts Performance and Live Entertainment program, has a voice that radiates true pain, joy and longing when the songs call for it.

Bassist Koa Ho, a senior at UM, surprised the crowd and took over Bannister’s role singing lead vocals for a few tunes, and he didn’t disappoint. He kept up the soul, liveliness and emotion throughout his songs.

Conor McCarthy, the band’s guitarist, graduated from UM in 2017 and moved to Nashville to pursue music. The separation is difficult for the band because they no longer have a regular rehearsal schedule. To work around it, they tend to book gigs a week at a time, so McCarthy can come down and be there for several shows before heading back to Nashville. But when McCarthy can’t be there, members of SHENZI still play together as a trio or quartet, taking gigs whenever they can.

While some Miami locals were at the venue for a mellow night out in Wynwood, UM students filled the crowd at Wynwood Yard. Some were friends of the band members, others were part of the group’s growing fan base and others were hearing SHENZI Music for the first time.

Bella Rose, a freshman without a declared major, has seen

SHENZI perform several times at Wynwood Yard and other venues.

“I really like how they fuse together different genres,” Rose said.

SHENZI’s covers are filled with instrumental solos and build up to intense drops. The seamless transitions from upbeat, soul classics, such as “Tell Me Something Good,” to Childish Gambino’s hit “Redbone,” to originals without skipping a beat always get the crowd on its feet. The genre and mood may change from song to song, but the same threads of intense soul, emotion and authenticity tie the sets together.

The band is working on a project, not quite a full album but more than an EP, featuring SHENZI originals. When Frost bands play original songs, the lack of familiarity in the audience can sometimes bring the energy down and lower engagement. If

anything, the opposite was true at the SHENZI concert. They have a big enough fan base of people who know these songs well.

SHENZI went on tour for a month in 2017, playing in Miami, Atlanta, Nashville, Philadelphia and New York City, despite assembling the group less than a year earlier. Bannister said that a band like this, in which all the members deeply understand each other’s struggles and strengths and know how to work to make each person sound best, is a hard find.

“The biggest thing that I’m so grateful for is the element of trust, and I trust these guys so much,” Bannister said. “A lot of our stuff changes every night and the reason we’re able to do that is trust.”

To keep up with SHENZI’s upcoming recording project, summer tour and gigs, follow the band on Facebook and at https:// www.shenzimusic.com/.

10 EDGE

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

Gables art festival: vibrant pieces with heart

By Mackenzie Miller Online Editor mackenzie@themiamihurricane.com

This year’s Coral Gables Festival of the Arts finished Jan. 28 after a weekend filled with an eclectic range of art, food and entertainment. Many of the artists used vivid pops of color in their work and said they gain inspiration from their everyday lives. We spent a few minutes with five of them:

Silvia T. Duarte: Silvia Tatiana Art

Duarte is an acrylic artist based in Miami. While she used to paint more realist work, she now primarily focuses on abstract paintings that physicalize her emotions and environment.

“Every time I paint, it is a self-awareness process,” she said.

“Different colors or patterns come out depending on my mood or what I am feeling.”

She said she finds inspiration in the bright colors surrounding her at the beach and throughout the city of Miami. Duarte is on Instagram @silviatatiana_art.

Maria Elena Perez-Puelles: Art by Mele

Perez-Puelles creates various shapes, bowls and animal figurines using fiberglass, resin and the mold of a gourd, which she describes as having a very whimsical quality.

The designs Perez-Puelles paints on her objects are inspired by nature and the vibrant colors of her home in Venezuela.

“I quit my job and I decided to do what I always wanted to do: work with my hands,” she said.

To see more of Perez-Puelles’ work, visit artbymele.com.

Janet Moses: Blue Goose Studio

Moses creates beautiful folk home décor out of old metal, planks of wood, windows and doors.

“I love picking out something old and turning it into something that can be reused or repurposed,” she said.

Inspired primarily by the coastal scenery of Georgia and South Carolina, she refurbishes each recycled item to create a representation of beach life. To find more of Moses’ work, visit @ bluegoosestudio on Facebook.

Farinah Ali: Art by Farinah

A hair stylist by trade, Ali was encouraged by her mom to also pursue her passion of painting on canvas. She is originally from Atlanta but calls Miami her home.

Ali’s artwork is inspired by her career as a stylist.

“Everything on my canvas deals with care, beauty and bedazzlement,” she said.

See more of Ali’s work on Instagram @Art_by_Farinah.

Emily Rackley: Nymph & Nectar handcrafted artisan jewelry

Rackley travels across the country to art festivals in a 40foot converted school bus with her husband and animals. Her jewelry is rustic, with a bit of a Bohemian flare. Rackley uses copper or silver as a base and from there creates various textures and finishes for her necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

“Most of it starts with an idea I have for a shape,” she said. “I have certain shapes that I repeat a lot – circles and leaves.”

Hunter Crenian // Visuals Editor Find more of Rackley’s work at nymphandnectar.com QUIRKY AND COLORFUL: Saturated hues fill several artist vendors’ kiosks at the Coral Gables Festival of the Arts on Sunday, Jan. 29. The annual fair showcases local and regional art and other handcrafted goods.

Souvenir takes music from studio to stage with newly formed band

By Haley Walker Edge Editor edge@themiamihurricane.com

Frost School of Music band Souvenir has begun playing gigs to promote its Neon Dream record, which melds 80s synth sounds with cutting-edge modern pop. Written and produced by seniors Mike Fenuccio and Andrew Novoa, the 6-song EP was released in June 2017 and is available for purchase and streaming on Spotify, Soundcloud and Apple Music.

Neon Dream’s agile vocals carry the EP through a series of emotional highs and lows. With the triumphant harmonies of “Stay,”

which echo current artists like Troye Sivan and Parade of Lights, and the deep, melismatic sounds in “Push Pull” that call on the neosoul of the early aughts, vocalist and primary songwriter Mike Fenuccio demonstrates his range both in pitch and emotion. The songs’ lyrics exude lust, particularly in “Nocturnal” and the title track, “Neon Dream”, as well as longing and loss, as in “Push Pull.” The lines are short and to-thepoint, giving just enough information to paint a scene, but allowing Fenuccio’s evocative voice to do the talking.

Neon Dream pairs the clean arrangements of radio hits like Charlie Puth’s “Attention” or Shawn

Mendes’s “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back” with the airy, reverbheavy feel of festival artists Gallant and The Japanese House. The vocal chops in “Push Pull” and “Neon Dream” are a markedly late twentyteens touch, while the drum tracks and keyboard synths leave a taste of 1980s nostalgia. Though different from one another, the songs never feel incongruous. The bright sound of the record carries throughout, making even songs with contrasting energies, like “Stay” and “Chase Me Down,” feel like part of the same work.

Fenuccio uses the moniker Souvenir for his solo work and duo with keyboardist Andrew Novoa,

but he assembled a full band under the name in Fall 2017. Frost students Anh Le, the second keyboardist and drum pad player, drummer Chris Schreck, guitarist Ben Youngblood and bassist Reed Gaines joined Souvenir last semester and played the band’s first live show January 20 at Sunset Tavern.

“I feel like for so long these songs just lived in Andrew’s studio and now they’ve been elevated to new heights when played for actual people,” Fenuccio said.

Though Neon Dream’s studio sound isn’t necessarily replicable with live instruments, the addition of the band members gives Souvenir a mesmerizing live presence.

Youngblood, Le, Schreck and Gaines, all incredibly dexterous musicians, fill the void of vocal samples and synth tracks with live melody and rhythm.

“I’ve been so blessed to have such talented friends who allow me to realize the sonic palettes I envision when I write these songs,” Fenuccio said.

Souvenir will continue promoting Neon Dream with live gigs throughout Spring 2018. Catch them on campus at the UM United Wesley Open Mic/Coffeehouse (1210 Stanford Drive) February 22 and at Gramps in Wynwood February 27. Follow Souvenir @ mfenuccio on Facebook.

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January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

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THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

44 yrs

The Hurricanes had one of the best NCAA postseason streaks in the country.

BASEBALL

Canes poised to put 2017 shortcoming behind

By Josh White Senior Sports Writer @_JoshRWhite

The Miami clubhouse fell silent.

After finding out they wouldn’t be making the postseason for the first time in 45 years, the Hurricanes were dejected. It was like a bad dream.

“It was the toughest year of my coaching career without question,” head coach Jim Morris said at Miami’s first day of spring practice. “I wouldn’t be coaching 25 years if I had many of those seasons at Miami. It’s definitely a motivation to get better, for me and for our team.”

But this year, the Canes are poised to start a new run.

“We certainly haven’t forgotten about that,” senior left-handed ace Jeb Bargfeldt said. “It has fueled us throughout the fall. It has fueled us throughout our workouts.”

Despite suffering an off year, Miami still has its sights set high. The College World Series are in June in Omaha, Nebraska.

“Since day one, the goal is Omaha,” said junior outfielder Danny Reyes, who transferred from Broward College after spending the 2016 season at the University of Florida.

“Anything less than Omaha is not a good year.”

And if the Hurricanes needed any extra motivation, the 2018 campaign will be the 25th and final season for Morris.

“It’s going to be an emotional year for me,” Morris said. “I think we have a good club. I’m excited about the talent level we have this year.”

Miami garnered multiple preseason top 25 rankings, including a No. 9 ranking by Perfect Game USA. Bargfeldt said the team has a strong combination of new players and veterans, who have experienced both success and failure.

“We’re a type of team that can beat you in a number of different

Josh White // Staff Photographer THROWING HEAT: Junior reliever Andrew Cabezas powers through a pitch during the Orange and Green World Series Nov. 6-11 at Mark Light Field. Miami participated in this scrimmage to close fall baseball.

ways, if we play to our full potential,” he said.

The Hurricanes return 2017 team MVP Romy Gonzalez, who finished with a team-high 11 home runs and 38 RBI. Bargfeldt, who was an All-ACC second team honoree, had a 7-3 record as a starter with a 2.28 ERA. Junior reliever Andrew Cabezas recorded a 2.15 ERA with 80 strikeouts in 62.2 innings pitched.

Miami also brings back hardthrowing, right-handed sophomore Gregory Veliz, redshirt senior outfielder Michael Burns and junior

reliever Frankie Bartow.

UM adds a recruiting class ranked No. 8 by Baseball America, headlined by right-handed starting pitcher Christopher McMahon and infielders Raymond Gil and Alex Toral.

McMahon, who is hopeful to return by late March after undergoing offseason knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus, was picked by the Atlanta Braves in the 33rd round of the 2017 MLB Draft, while Gil was selected in the 37th round by the Oakland Athletics.

Toral, who was ranked No. 199 according to Baseball America’s top 500 draft-eligible prospects, went undrafted.

“They work as hard as anyone else,” Bargfeldt said of the newcomers.

“They get here early and they leave late. Those are things you can’t coach.

Those are things you possess yourself.

The torch is being passed to them this year.”

Although the lineup might feature young players, the Canes starting rotation should remain intact from a year ago. Bargfeldt, Veliz and

Evan McKendry will most likely headline the weekend, while Michael Mediavilla should get the first crack during the week.

“There are five or six guys that could be ones or twos on different staffs throughout the country,” Bargfeldt said of Miami’s rotation. “I think that’s something we used to our benefit. I think throughout the fall, all we’ve done is compete against each other, and that’s just made us better.”

Miami kicks off its season with a three-game series against Rutgers at 7 p.m. Feb. 16 at Mark Light Field.

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

PROJECTED DEFENSIVE ALIGNMENT

SPORTS

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CENTER FIELD: Michael Burns, RSr.

THIRD BASE: Raymond Gil, Fr.

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MIDWEEK: Michael Mediavilla, Sr. Photos courtesy Hurricane Sports

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SPORTS

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

COMMENTARY

Midseason grades: Miami’s starting lineup

By Isaiah Kim-Martinez Sports Editor sports@themiamihurricane.com @isaiah_km

The Miami Hurricanes (15-5, 4-4 ACC) are nearing the midpoint of conference play and have shown some clear strengths as well as obvious f laws. As February approaches, here are the TMH grades for UM’s starting lineup.

The Miami Hurricanes (15-5, 4-4 ACC) are nearing the midpoint of conference play and have shown some clear strengths as well as obvious f laws.

As February approaches, here are the TMH grades for UM’s starting lineup:

JA’QUAN NEWTON

BRUCE BROWN JR.

GRADE:

GRADE:

B

Newton’s scoring averages have dipped from 13.5 points per game to 8.5, his field-goal percentage is down and his threepoint efficiency is less than half of what it was in 2016-2017.

Doesn’t sound too good, right?

Just from looking at the stats, no. But a deeper look into the numbers shows he has made

SENIOR, GUARD

strides in a different role.

Newton’s minutes are down a bit from last year from 31.4 to 26.8 minutes per game, but his shot attempts are also down by more than three shots a night, and he is averaging 1.9 turnovers instead of 3.3.

Newton has taken better care of the ball and allowed opportunities for others to score.

LONNIE WALKER IV

ANOTHONY LAWRENCE II

GRADE:

GRADE:

B

For one reason or another, Walker struggled to find his rhythm for the first couple months of the season.

But all that is behind him now, and the five-star recruit is showing exactly why he is widely considered a first-round NBA talent.

In ACC play, Walker is

FRESHMAN, GUARD

averaging 14.3 points, which leads Miami, and shooting 40 percent from three-point range.

He has scored in double figures in each of his last five games, including 23 and 25-point outbursts in his last two.

Walker is just getting better, and the Hurricanes will only go as far as he takes them.

A

Lawrence has been a bright spot for Miami in a season that has had its ups and downs.

A model of consistency, Lawrence is averaging a career-high nine points per game while shooting an impressive 50 percent from the field and 49 percent from the three-point line, which leads

SOPHOMORE, GUARD

B

Brown is Miami’s most versatile player.

At just 6 feet 5, he leads the team in rebounds, assists and steals, averaging 7.1, 4.0 and 1.3 per game, respectively.

But scoring, and doing so efficiently, has clearly come harder to Brown in his second year.

He is averaging 11.3 points

JUNIOR, FORWARD

the Canes. He is also grabbing 6.4 rebounds a night and ranks No. 2 on the team in total steals with 24.

While his plays rarely jump off the screen, Lawrence has been a vital cog to the Hurricanes' system on both ends of the court, stretching the floor on offense and guarding the paint on defense.

per game – nearly the same as last season – and his field-goal, threepoint and free-throw percentages are all down.

The season is still young enough for Brown to get his shot right, but he will have to do it quickly as each ACC matchup becomes that much more important to make the NCAA Tournament.

DEWAN HUELL

SOPHOMORE, FORWARD

GRADE:

A

No other Cane has made bigger statistical strides this season than Huell.

After playing limited minutes his freshman year, the athletic, 6-foot-11 big man from Miami is scoring 13.5 points and grabbing nearly seven rebounds a night while also shooting a team-best 61.5 percent from the field.

The only thing keeping him from a perfect grade are his occasional lapses in judgement on defense. He often loses the player he is guarding or fails to box out, allowing easy dunks and second-chance opportunities for the opponent.

But when Huell is focused, he is difficult to stop.

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018

V’S TAKE

When easing into relationships, respect your partner’s pace It’s crucial to establish boundaries and expectations before jumping in bed, especially if you want a quality relationship that lasts.

As you may or may not know, V is trying to get cuffed.

I know, it’s surprising to me, too. The transition from hooking up with hoes in Hondas to being housewife-y seems impossible, but I’m making it work – or trying to anyway.

Whether you’re in Have a question a relationship or not, it for V? Email seems like everyone is after sex. Who dearv@themiamihurricane.com. doesn’t like the D … Or the V … Or

neither … Or both … Or both at the same time. V does not kink shame.

But as we’ve discussed in the past, sex isn’t really what draws the line between friendships and relationships.

Plenty of people are screwing each other and haven’t DTRed, while numerous cute couples are saving themselves for marriage.

It doesn’t matter where you are in your relationship, it’s important to talk about your expectations so neither partner gets disappointed.

Intimacy can have a million and one definitions, but regardless of which one you choose, it’s an essential part of any

relationship.

It’s important to remember that making out and cuddling can be more intimate and pleasurable than doing the dirty sometimes. Often, the foreplay is better than the actual sex – especially if your partner finishes fast.

Think about it: What is the longest amount of time you’ve spent having sex? How long have you spent cuddling?

It’s likely the cuddle time is much greater than the penetrating time. (For me, the answers were 13 minutes and 12 hours, respectively.)

Different people want to do different things at different

speeds, and I totally respect and understand that because #ConsentIsSexy.

Sure, you can stall by using your hands and fingers (and toys, too) as a stand in, but it’s nowhere close to the level of intimacy and pleasure you can get from your partner, no matter how sexy they look in their tagged Insta photos.

But you have to remember it’s a big step for someone who usually goes hardcore on the first night to take it slow.

Have a question for V? Email d e a r v @ t h e m i a m i h u r r i c a n e. com.

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THE MIAMI HURRICANE

January 30, 2018 - February 6 , 2018