V
raider
Gulliver Preparatory School
6575 N Kendall Drive, Miami FL 33156
oice
March 31, 2017
Vol. 15, Issue 5
www.theraidervoice.com
Seniors Take South Beach Page 11
IN THIS ISSUE 19
ON THE COVER Seniors Asa Agnoli and Brianna Austin participate in an icebreaker activity at Senior Beach Clean Up. Photo by Kayla Patel.
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OPINION Issues of racism in Hollywood. Transgender bathroom protection.
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NEWS Raider Seminars. New drama room art mural. The Tina Dailey Foundation presentation. Business classes compete at DECA showcase.
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FEATURES Students ski during February break. Profiles on new physics teacher George Schaeffer and senior Victoria Rios. New trends seen on campus. Lucky charms.
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ENTERTAINMENT This month in music. La La Land sweeps awards season. Miami filmed Moonlight wins big in Hollywood.
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CONTENTS
SPORTS Miami Heat 13-win streak. Prep basketball team has historic season. The Miami Herald recognizes All-Dade student-athletes.
Editorial
OUR STAFF
“It couldn’t happen to me”
High school teens may not realize the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse before it is too late.
In high school, every student’s hope is to find themselves and their purpose. However, the pressure to fit in can be draining, leading some to seek immediate and temporary relief by engaging in activities they know are wrong. With all of the stigma associated with addiction, it’s hard to imagine that the peer sitting next to you in class, with the most amazing home and family, might be suffering from the disease. Substance abuse is not always the rapid and overpowering issue that sprouts from experimenting with alcohol and drugs at a party; dependence to substances can happen gradually and subtly, and flare up later in life. Class of ‘97 graduate, Tina Dailey, was dependent on alcohol and drugs, which ruled her life after high school up until her death by overdose in 2014. In memory of Tina, the Tina Dailey Foundation started to help people overcome their addictions and spread awareness of the disease that kills over
Here are the stats
100 people daily. Several Prep students serve as “Tina’s Ambassadors” who help struggling teens, and obtain service hours for their contribution to the foundation. To prevent cases like Tina’s from being repeated, the school made it a mission to educate students on the dangers of substance abuse; which is discussed in health classes, HIP seminars for 9th graders, and assembly speakers. Although students learn valuable lessons through these seminars and speakers while at school, it’s the student’s responsibility to make the right choices when exposed to these risks outside the campus. Life is too precious to be cut short by addiction. It’s saddening that some would turn to drugs and alcohol for a brief alleviation, rather than seeking other, healthy avenues to find fun and fulfillment. Feeling better starts with speaking up, and getting help. Ultimately, when you’re healthy, it’s much easier to pursue your passions and find yourself in the process. from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
By age 15, about 33% of teens have had at least 1 drink.
By age 18, about 60% of teens have had at least 1 drink.
Brooke Ellis Editor-in-Chief Katherine Cohen Managing Editor Claudia Picado Online & Copy Editor Talia Pfeffer Design Editor Marcela Royo Features Editor Aurora Hermida Lifestyles Editor Evan Silberman News Editor Tyler Perez Co-Sports Editor David Akerman Co-Sports Editor Zachary Letson Staff Writer Monica Rodriguez Adviser
OUR MISSION
The Raider Voice is Gulliver Preparatory’s award-winning monthly publication to inform, educate, and entertain the entire Gulliver community.
OUR POLICY
Only documented news stories and responsible opinions will be published. Opinions expressed as commentary may not reflect the views or policies of the school. The Raider Voice welcomes signed letters to the editors. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject any letters. Professional associations include Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Florida Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association and Tribune Campus News Services. Staff journalists are members of Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society. The Raider Voice reserves the right to refuse any advertising, solicited or unsolicited. Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views, endorsements and/or positions of The Raider Voice staff. Advertisements will be accepted copy-ready or will be designed by the staff. This publication is printed by Sun Coast Press, 200 East Venice Avenue, Venice, FL 34285. Tel: 941-207-1406.
OPINION
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Thank you Harbour Village
For your continuous support of the Gulliver Field Studies Program! 4
OPINION
Writer/director Barry Jenkins of “Moonlight” along with the cast and producers backstage at the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards show at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/TNS)
The issue over Hollywood racism
Although progress has been made, racial discrimination still looms over the Hollywood landscape.
By Marcela Royo Features Editor Hollywood, which offers a constant portrayal of our society, has taken it upon itself to speak out on issues like the lack of inclusion of minorities in society, using film and award ceremonies, such as the recent Oscars, as a platform. The only problem with this is the apparent pre-dominance of white actors/actresses, directors, producers etc., which limits diversity in films. ''Whitewashing’ refers to white actors being cast in non-white roles. This has become a topic often mentioned in media, such as films like Dr. Strange and The Great Wall where white actors were cast for the leading roles in both films that were created as and intended to be Asian characters. Whitewashing has been around since the start of Hollywood and people of color have been fighting for equal portrayal since Hollywood’s start.
I understand that it may be difficult to always cast a diverse ensemble, but if the character was created or based on a person of color (“POC”) there should be no reason for casting someone who does not fit those characteristics, especially when there are many POC actors. The lack of diversity in previous years’ award season was obvious but this year, the recent Oscars demonstrated improvement with respect to both nominees and winners. “Moonlight,” which won the award for best picture with a predominantly black cast was a step in the right direction, although there is still much to fix. If Hollywood wants to portray society and topics that relate to current issues, they should reach wide audiences for the best success and to do that diversity is necessary. To right this wrong, Hollywood
has tried to become more diverse in casting. As an example, the Marvel’s: The Avengers, franchise recently went under heat for its lack of a diverse cast, and to right it they immediately added two actors of color. The point isn’t to just cast a POC for the sake of public satisfaction; one actor of color among the many white does not constitute as diversity. Whether we like it or not, racism is still an issue in society. Hollywood, as a reproduction of society, should take into consideration its diversity. It has been a battle for too long and with the constant issues in our country today brought on by politics now more than ever should Hollywood, a prevalent factor in our lives, represent our society correctly and equally. OPINION
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The “bathroom debate” Trump revokes a law protecting the rights of transgender students to use the bathroom of the gender they identify with in public schools Katherine Cohen Managing Editor
Do you want to be published in an award-winning publication? Now accepting entries for 2017 Reflections Literary Magazine! Entries can be original works such as: - short stories - poetry - photography - art To submit an entry, email rodrm@gulliverschools.org with the piece or go to Room 221 with a copy of your work. Please include your name, your grade, and the name of the piece with any entry for the literary magazine.
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OPINION
In February, President Trump’s administration revoked guidelines passed under former President Obama which provided transgender students the right to use public school bathrooms that match their gender identity. Am I surprised? No. Disappointed? Yes. So far, President Trump’s administration has taken a somewhat permissive stance regarding same-sex marriage and LGBT+ rights, and though I never got my hopes up, my low expectations rose slightly. Now, it appears that the socially conservative Trump administration was simply biding its time working on other issues before they finally made it to the LGBT+ part of the checklist. One of the most disappointing aspects of this decision is that it directly contradicts Trump’s positions throughout the campaign before he took office. “Transgender people should be able to use whatever bathroom they want. North Carolina did something that was very strong (In Mar. 2016, North Carolina legislators banned people from using bathrooms not intended for their assigned gender). And they’re paying a big price.” Trump said in an NBC town hall event Apr. 2016. That stance lasted approximately one month in office. Instead, he revoked a landmark law in social progress and copped out of the responsibility by blaming his action on states’ rights. Dear President Trump and other socially conservative politicians, civil rights are not states’ rights issues. When it comes to human rights, issues should not be determined on a state by state basis. Regarding the debate itself, some people claim that having someone of a different sex in the bathroom with them is dangerous, that transgender people using the ‘wrong’ bathroom increases
the probability of sexual assault in public restrooms. These claims are unsubstantiated alternative facts. Statistical evidence from the Human Rights Campaign shows that there are no reported cases of a transgender person harassing a non-transgender person in a public restroom. Other people might ask “so what’s the big deal?” On the outside, it only looks like some transgender kids in some schools will now have to use a different bathroom. However, transgender persons are a highly vulnerable minority, and this change is indicative of much larger problems. There are fewer laws protecting transgender people from discrimination in employment, housing, and other fields than other minorities. In addition, according to a study by the Williams Institute, young transgender persons have a far higher risk of suicide than their cisgender counterparts. In the study, more than forty percent of all transgender persons surveyed had tried to commit suicide. “Mental health factors and experiences of harassment, discrimination, violence and rejection may interact to produce a marked vulnerability to suicidal behavior in … gender non-conforming individuals,” the published study revealed. This law being revoked puts our own citizens at risk, and no vague discussion of states’ rights will justify this political stunt. If you would like to make a difference regarding LGBT+ issues, you can call your state representatives about transgender students’ rights within Florida or work with the Human Rights Campaign, a foundation that pursues equal rights for LGBT+ persons in the United States.
Raider seminars explore varied student interests Marcela Royo Features Editor Throughout the year Raider seminars offered courses that either fueled a passion or sparked an interest. They are held all year, split into three trimesters with a different seminar for each trimester. From rocket building to car restoration each seminar explores new interests and hobbies. “I enjoy my bike riding seminar because we get to go out and get fresh air rather than be in a classroom,� said freshman Valeria Pieschacon. Different Raider seminars include: art in public spaces, knitting, adult coloring, cooking and preparing sushi.
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1: Students take turns welding pieces that will then be used to restore a car. Photo by David Akerman. 2: Students in the History and Science of the Cold War seminar prepares to launch a rocket made during the class. Photo by Catie Schwartzman. 3: Students in Collaborative Art in Public Places began sketching the design for the mural. Photo by Monica Rodriguez. 4: English teacher Adam Schachner helps inflate and set up a tire for a student in his biking seminar. Photo by Lily Harris.
NEWS
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Art teacher Mary Munn discusses plans for the new mural that will be painted outside the drama room during the Collaborative Art in Public Places Raider Seminar. The seminar is led by art teachers Mary Munn and Maribel Toledo, and will feature a design created by former students. Photo by Marcela Royo.
Students Repaint Drama Room Mural Collaborative Art in Public Places Raider Seminar works on painting a new mural outside of the drama room By Marcela Royo Features Editor The Collaborative Art in Public Places Raider Seminar, led by art teachers Mary Munn and Maribel Toledo allows students to leave their mark on the school by painting an original artistic piece on the wall outside of the drama room. “We talked with NAHS (National Art Honor Society) to paint the mural but we took advantage of the raider seminars to gather a group,” said Munn. The inspiration for the mural came from a previous design created two years ago by alumni and previous officers of NAHS, Ros Fiol and Franco Zacharzewski. The design was approved but never created due to time constraints. “We wanted to give credit to their
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design and follow through with it seeing as how it had already been approved,” said Munn. The design will be kept secret and revealed throughout the process of painting the mural. Although the design has already been determined, students will be allowed to provide their input and design a section of the mural as their own. “I really wanted to paint a mural as a collaborative project. It will be interesting to come back and see what we created,” said junior Amanda Vera. The mural will be painted during each seminar session, with students alternating in groups, and completing different tasks.
Top: Students from the Raider seminar plan out the design for the new mural in the art room with art teacher Ms. Munn. Above: Diana Camacho paints a section of the mural with her peers during the Collaborative Art in Public Places raider seminar on March 27.
Shedding Light on Addiction Representatives of the Tina Dailey foundation speak on the dangers of drug addiction By Claudia Picado Copy and Web Editor On Friday, Mar. 17, representatives from the Tina Dailey foundation spoke to students during Flex Time about the dangers and signs of drug addiction. The Foundation is named after Tina Dailey, an alumna who died of an overdose in 2014. First, Vilma Dailey, mother of Tina and one of the founders of the Tina Dailey Foundation, spoke about her daughter’s life and struggle with addiction, before dying of an overdose in 2014. The Tina Dailey Foundation was founded by Tina’s parents Vilma and Richard Dailey, with the mission of changing the stigma surrounding drug addiction, in order to help and support those suffering from the disease so that they can overcome it and live healthy, full lives. During Tina’s high school years, she excelled in both academics and athletics. However, this was also when she first got involved with drugs. She later got further involved with drugs and alcohol during her years away at college. She sought help and went to rehab a number of times before overdosing at age 35 in November of 2014. The foundation seeks to emphasize the fact that addiction is a disease, and eradicate the idea that those who get addicted to drugs do so because they are a bad people or make poor decisions, citing Tina’s life as proof. “Whatever you see in your mind’s eye when you think of an addict, Tina was the opposite. She was the light and energy in any room,” states the Tina Foundation Website, http://www. thetinadaileyfoundation.org. The assembly also featured two keynote speakers: Eric Lang, Head Fire Chief of Key Biscayne, and Amy Exum, a therapist with Baptist Health South Florida. Chief Lang spoke first, recounting his experiences working a first responder for people who have overdosed, and
Vilma Dailey, founder of the Tina Dailey Foundation speaks fondly of her daughter Tina, who died in Nov. 2014 of an overdose. Dailey spoke to students at the assembly held at the Prep on Mar. 17. Photo by Kayla Patel.
how much it can wreak havoc not only on the lives of addicts, but on families and the community as well. Exum then spoke about how drug addiction should be destigmatized and how easy it is for teenagers to be pressured into using drugs that can lead to misuse, abuse, and addiction. Later, Jill Paget Lowe, another member of the foundation’s board of directors spoke, encouraging students to join the program and become an ambassador for the Tina Daily Foundation to help make a difference in the lives of many South Floridians. “When someone is in need is when true friendship is forged,” said Lowe. For more information on Tina’s story and how to get involved with the Tina Dailey Foundation, visit www. thetinadaileyfoundation.org/ or call 305.204.9907.
Students speak with members of the Board of Directors of the Tina Dailey Foundation about becoming a part of the Tina’s Ambassador program. Photo by Kayla Patel.
NEWS
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Summer Workshops at Gulliver PSAT SAT ACT Winners sophomores Alex Anton, Dania Fernandez, and senior Orest Danyliv pose with the first place trophy after presenting their idea of healthy fast food.
Business students compete at annual showcase By Evan Silberman News Editor The Prep Business Program hosted their annual Business Showcase on Mar. 14th. In the showcase, the students presented their unique ideas and business plans to a panel full of judges that have experience in the business world and an audience of fellow students and parents. The process began at the start of the school year, when the students were asked to form an idea and begin to create a business plan. A wide variety of ideas were presented such as an improved music streaming service, vitamins for pets, and many other unique ideas. Every group went through a similar process within their classroom, first creating the idea then dealing with the financial aspect of creating a business. The six groups that presented in the showcase were voted in by a combination of the teachers, students, and judges to represent each class after strong presentations in the previous round. The first place team, “Fresh Zone” was made up of senior Orest Danyliv, sophomore Alex Anton, and sophomore Dania Fernandez. Their idea was a healthy yet affordable, fast-food restaurant. The group’s strong presentation mixed with the appeal to the audience is what led to their victory. While “SupportMe” and “Illumina” finished second and third. The “Fresh Zone” team went on to place second at the InnovateSFL business plan competition on Mar. 27.
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Coming Soon! Call for more information 305-361-2400
Day at the beach Seniors participate in a community service activity at Miami Beach By Zachary Letson Staff Writer On March 10, the class of 2017 took to Miami Beach to help clean the plants and beach grass of invasive species. This community event served as the Senior Field Day as well, where after completing their service, students were allowed free time to enjoy the beach for the rest of the school day. “I had fun cleaning the beach with my friends. Having time to relax in the water as a class was a good way to come together,� said senior Marcela Royo.
Seniors worked together to clean up and remove invasive plant species from Miami Beach. Photos by Kayla Patel.
Snow Bound Snowy destinations were popular among students during break. By Marcela Royo Features Editor
Students hit the Aspen, CO slopes (top to bottom): Seniors Anette Alonso, Isabel Rodriguez, Nicole Dulcey, Laia Huguet, Alexia Zac Zac, and Jillian Hersman pose for a photo before making their way down the mountain. Senior Aurora Hermida travels to Aspen with sophomore Jagger Legrand and Senior Sky Legrand. The Legrand brothers met up with seniors Serena Stevens and Gaspard Crepy on the slopes.
Senior Marieta Lanseros dug her skis into the powdery snow to wait for her friends to catch up with her on the slopes. She, along with many other students, traveled to Colorado during the February recess. “Going to Aspen was extremely fun because I was able to ski with my friends and take a much needed break from school,“ said senior Alexia Zac Zac. The new schedule allowed for an additional break from Feb. 17-27, syncing our schedule with other private schools. The recess provided opportunities for winter travel without having to sacrifice missing time from school. “As a senior being able to travel with my friends gave me a chance to make more memories before leaving for college,” said Xavi Dalmau.
Senior Mariana De Souza went to Beaver Creek, CO with her brother and friends. Colorado was a popular destination among students.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
Seniors Alexandra Rich, Rachael Kravetz, and Alissa Seleznov traveled together to Steamboat Springs, CO slopes. “Being able to travel with my family friends made the trip more memorable,” said Rich.
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Victoria Rios receives an award for her app from Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Photo provided by Victoria Rios.
Senior Victoria Rios to go Before Congress Victoria Rios will present her app Simple Sign on Capitol Hill By Tyler Perez Sports Co-Editor Using a combination of HTML, CSS, and jQuery, senior Victoria Rios created her Simple Sign app, for which she recently won the 2016 Congressional App Challenge for her district. The award was presented to her by US Congresswoman Illeana Ros-Lehtinen. Rios was among 2,150 students that participated in the Challenge, competing against 650 apps submitted
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from 123 congressional districts. “Simple Sign” provides a free platform for learning sign language in a simple and accessible format. Rios has been preparing for the past several months, before she presents her application before Congress on April 4th at an award reception. The reception will honor all district winners on Capitol Hill. In addition, her work will be featured in a display at the U.S. Capitol building and on the house.gov website for one year. Winning students are also awarded a portion of 50k in credits donated by Amazon Web Services. “I am proud and excited to represent a cause that is so close to my heart,” said Rios. The inspiration for this app was a rather personal one for Rios, and also close to her heart. Her younger sister Zoe suffers from Charge Syndrome and is deaf. Charge Syndrome is a condition which affects the facial nerves. Rios takes several different computer science and coding classes at school where she learned the skills necessary to make her app. She also participated in a Girls Who Code Program during a summer program at FIU. She hopes to major in computer science in college. “Coding is one of the things I really thrive in and enjoy doing. It is something I love to do and something that I really hope I can continue in the future,” said Rios. The primary difference between Rios’ and others, is that it is accessible for free. By making it easily accessible to all, Rios hopes that it will reach a bigger audience and have a larger impact.
Victoria Rios was recently interviewed by Channel 7 News Miami. To watch the interview scan QR code on Snapchat.
How to use the Simple Sign App: Go to simplesign.us and chose from the options menu
Learn the signs
Then quiz yourself
Physics teacher George Shaeffer tests the strength of a wooden bridge made using sticks and glue created by senior students Ryan Simkins and Caroline Quint.
New Physics Teacher Joins Science Department George Shaeffer brings his passion for physics to the Preparatory campus. By Talia Pfeffer Design Editor “I always enjoy figuring out how things work; the more complex it is, the more determined I am to learn,” said physics teacher, George Shaeffer. The newest addition to the Prep science department, Shaeffer exudes genuine curiosity in and out of the classroom. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Shaeffer graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor’s degree in physics. Inspired by one of his very own physics teachers, he found simple beauty in the complexity of physics. His devotion to science and aptitude for explaining things helped fuel
his adoration for teaching students. “My passion for teaching came about when I realized I could get others to understand what I was talking about when rambling about physics,” said Shaeffer. In the classroom, Shaeffer is quick to recognize the curiosity students have and believes its the most fun element to his curriculum. He loves watching students come to class excited to learn, and listens to them present solutions to the problems and challenges faced by the subject. “Teaching high school students is especially fun because most still have some curiosity remaining, even after eight years of our school system trying to beat it out of you,” said Shaeffer. “This
curiosity leads to interest and passion, and in my classes it can lead to questions that I am too happy to answer and discuss with everyone. This curiosity, however faint, is infectious and takes but a moment to spark into a burning flame across many individuals.” When Shaeffer is not in the classroom teaching , he considers himself an avid video gamer, plays the drums and piano, and practices martial arts and yoga whenever he can. Although Shaeffer joined the Gulliver community in January, he hopes that by May, students will see that physics isn’t a “monstrous subject only meant for geniuses,” but a subject that can truly be applied to the infinite inquiries of life. FEATURES
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FEATURES
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Accessories are a great way to add fun and personality to outfits and everyday items. The Swell water bottle (1) is revolutionary in keeping your water at the same temperature all day long. (2) Fjallraven Kanken is the backpack to get for all instances. Whether you’re taking a trip across the world or taking the trek to class, this fully functional backpack is for you. Wrap bracelets (3) are all the rage. You pick a few bracelets that go together and wear them at the same time for a stylish look. If you’re always misplacing your keys, those days are over thanks to the poof key chain. Find these fluffy items anywhere from Neiman Marcus to Walgreen’s. Chokers are back, and a popular one is a singular pearl on a black string (5). The Adidas Superstar (6) is a hot shoe among students now. Wear this with anything and it’ll add a sporty look to your outfit.
lucky charms
Before a ride to work, or playing in a soccer game, luck plays a part in our daily lives. Students and faculty discuss their lucky objects, and what it means to have them. Photos by Talia Pfeffer.
the LUCK of the
Raider On Friday Mar. 17, students and teachers wore green to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day. Wearing green on the holiday is an old tradition that honors the holiday in Ireland. Green. the color associated with fortune and good luck, is said to prevent leprechaun pinches on St. Patty’s Day. The holiday is celebrated every year on Mar. 17 -- the anniversary of Saint Patrick’s death in the 5th century -- and the Irish have observed it as a religious holiday for more than 1,000 years. The tradition of wearing green on Saint Patrick’s day is in fact, not an Irish tradition, but an American one, and has little connection to Ireland, where it is common to wear a small bunch of Shamrocks instead. The practice of pinching someone who is not wearing green is also an American invention.
By Talia Pfeffer Design Editor
Those who forget, or choose not to wear the hue might fall victim to a senseless pinch. All for a silly color, one might ask, but a legend telling of tricky leprechauns might drag you into your closet to scour for green shirt. According to the Irish Culture Museum in New Orleans, Americans started the pinching tradition in the 18th century. Leprechauns are supposedly invisible and mischievous, so if you’re not wearing green, someone may pinch you, so a leprechaun won’t pinch you first. I f you choose to believe in this myth, then wearing green should have been your go-to color on Mar. 17. “Wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day is something I’ve been doing since Kindergarten, and do so because I don’t want to get pinched,” said Alissa Seleznov.
“I keep a little bell on my motorcycle, “the Dean Machine. When it’s ringing, I know I’ll have a safe ride.” -Computer Science Teacher Mr. Morell
“Currently my lucky charm is my Florida Gators shirt.” -English Teacher Mrs. Artzt
“When I play soccer, pre and post game, I always have my slides on. They make me feel ready and comfortable to play.” -Senior Samantha Earle FEATURES
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this month in music The Raider Voice’s recaps this month’s most popular songs.
“Selfish” Future ft. Rihanna
“Some Way” Nav ft. The Weeknd
“Selfish” is a hit from Future’s new album HNDRXX where he collaborates vocally with R&B singer Rihanna as well as rapping later on in the song. The song is a slow tune about a loving relationship which is ruined suddenly. Future talks about spending money without caring but also how a relationship could die in the light of fame and popularity. “Selfish” is different compared to Future’s other music, in the sense that it is much slower and about romance. Future usually does features with other artists such as Drake in their collaborative album What a Time To Be Alive and The Weeknd in charting singles such as “Low Life.” Nonetheless, the song is a soothing break compared to many of the other songs on the new HNDRXX album which are more intense, such as “Incredible.”
The Weeknd does not disappoint with his rapping on Nav’s new single “Some Way.” If anything, the Starboy outshines Nav, even taking shots at Justin Bieber towards the end of his verse. The Weeknd opens the song with intense lyrics that describe him and his lifestyle now that he is an award winning artist. Nav, on the other hand, is a much newer artist compared to The Weeknd. His first studio Calvin Harris ft. Migos & Frank Ocean album is self titled and places the A master collaboration single Toronto producer in the rapping league among some of produced by popular DJ Calvin the most famous, such as Travis Scott and Harris and featuring recently The Weeknd. In his verse on “Some Way,” revived R&B singer Frank Ocean he raps about the rise to fame and the and notorious rap trio Migos, “Slide” is spotlight. The quick song shows destined to become this summer’s hit tune. both artists’ ability to be able to The song opens with a slow piano chord which is joined change from rap to hip hop by Ocean’s high pitched vocals, which is then easily. joined with a poppy synthesizer pop beat. Migos come in and begin
“Slide”
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to rap, adding a different genre of music to a mostly electronic song. Both Ocean and Migos use similar sounding vocals on the single compared to those used on both of their recently released albums, Blonde and Culture. Ocean repeatedly uses high pitched vocals on Blonde especially on tracks such as “Nike” and “Futura Free.” Migos constantly uses ad libs, words that are said without preparation during a performance, in “Slide” and also in songs from their album Culture, such as “Bad and Bougie” and “Get Right Witcha.”
Music of La La Land Sweeps Award Season Justin Hurwitz’s jazzy tunes take home Best Original Score
With upbeat musical numbers and romantic jazz pieces, the colorful soundtrack of “La La Land” swept this year’s award season, winning the Golden Globe and Academy Award for Best Original Score. Composer Justin Hurwitz also landed two Oscar nominations in the Best Original Song category for “City of Stars” and “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)”, with “City of Stars” taking home the award. Unlike most of the films nominated for Best Picture at the 89th annual Academy Awards, “La La Land” is for the most part, a light hearted, escapist movie, and its soundtrack reflects that. The music
By Claudia Picado Copy and WebEditor perfectly complements the colors, visuals, and plot of the film, helping make it a memorable viewing experience. Part of the appeal of the soundtrack is the fact that it makes jazz appealing and accessible to the average moviegoer who wouldn’t normally listen to jazz on their own. “La La Land” opens with one of the most memorable musical numbers of the film, “Another Day of Sun”, an upbeat, energetic song performed by dozens of drivers in standstill traffic on a Los Angeles highway, setting the mood of the first act. “Mia and Sebastian’s Theme”, which is first performed by Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) during the scene in which him and Mia (Emma Stone) first meet, is the essential core of the music throughout the rest of the film. The piano riff that first appears in this song returns multiple times, most notably accompanied by Gosling’s voice in “City of Stars”, the piece earned composer Justin Hurwitz his first Oscar for Best Original Song.
During awards season, Hurwitz’s “City of Stars” earned both the Golden Globe and Oscar for Best Original Song, with “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” also nominated for the Oscar in the same category. While “City of Stars” is a good song in its own right, I believe that “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” deserved the Oscar, as the song was far more important to the plot and held much more emotional weight than the former. Both songs feature standout solo performances by Gosling and Stone. Considering neither of the two stars of the film are professional singers, their voices were surprisingly good, and fit their characters well. Mia is an actress and Sebastian is a jazz pianist, and neither of their characters claim to be singers, so their amateur, sometimes rough sounding voices feels natural. Often in musicals, it makes no sense that the characters should have Broadway quality singing voices, and it was refreshing to hear the two protagonists of a musical singing like normal people.
Miami Native Director Barry Jenkins Wins Big with Moonlight By Claudia Picado Copy and Web Editor
black writer/ director to win best picture, and Mahershala Ali became the first Muslim to win an Oscar. On Sunday, Feb. 26, a Miami-based The film’s success and critical acclaim independent film with a mere $1.5 is also a big moment for Miami, namely million budget won the most coveted for underprivileged areas such as award in cinema. “Moonlight,” the story Liberty City, where the film takes place. of a gay black boy growing up in Liberty Playwright Tarell Alvin McCraney, who City, took home the Academy Award wrote the play “In Moonlight Black Boys for Best Picture, after it was mistakenly Look Blue” which “Moonlight” was based awarded to “La La Land,” the widely on, and director Barry Jenkins both grew predicted winner. up in the same area of Liberty City in the The film also took home two more 80s and 90s. Oscars, with Mahershala Ali winning Best “Two boys from Liberty City up here Supporting Actor, and Barry Jenkins and representing 305 -- this goes out to all Tarell Alvin McCraney taking home the those black and brown boys and girls and award for Best Adapted Screenplay. non-gender conforming who don’t see “Moonlight’s” successful night at the themselves, we are trying to show you, Oscars was historic for many reasons. you and us, so thank you, thank you, “Moonlight” is the first film with an this is for you,” said McCraney in his all-black cast to win the award for Best acceptance speech for the Oscar for Best Picture, Barry Jenkins became the first Adapted Screenplay.
Barry Jenkins arrives at the 89th Academy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017, at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood. (Jay L. Clendenin/Los Angeles Times/TNS)
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Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside fights for position under the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game at American Airlines Arena Saturday, March 4, 2017 in Miami. The Heat won, 120-92. (David Santiago/ Miami Herald/TNS)
Raiders qualify for Regional Title Game Four Freshman lead the team to its best season since 2001. By Tyler Perez Co-Sports Editor
Heat Use 13-Game Win Streak to get back into Playoff Picture Team has a record of 26 wins and 8 losses since Jan. 17. By David Akerman Co-Sports Editor
as seven players are averaging at least 10 points per game. On Jan. 17 the Miami Heat had a New signings James Johnson and Dion record of 11-30, 9.5 games back of a Waiters have played well. Johnson has playoff spot, looking prime for a losing averaged 12.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.5 season. It looked as if the absences of assists per game. Waters, who came from Dwyane Wade, Luol Deng, Joe Johnson the Oklahoma City Thunder has averaged and Chris Bosh were starting to hit 15.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists them hard. Wade, Deng, and Johnson per game. all signed with new teams while Bosh Although Johnson and Waiters have didn’t pass his physical during the pre- been two key players, arguably the team’s season. However, they then proceeded two most important players are point to win 13 straight games, putting guard Goran Dragic and center Hassan themselves back into playoff contention. Whiteside. Dragic is averaging 20.1 points, During their 13-game win streak they 3.9 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game. This beat two of the best teams in the NBA is one of his best statistical seasons in his this season. Those two teams were career. As for Whiteside, who re-signed the Houston Rockets and the Golden with the Heat during the off-season for a State Warriors. After the All-Star break reported four years and $98M, he has been they also beat the defending champion averaging 16.8 points, 14.0 rebounds and Cleveland Cavaliers two times in a 2.10 blocks per game. row. As of Mar. 30, the Heat are in the If the Heat continue to play as they have second to last playoff spot with a record recently, there is no doubt that they will of 37-38. be in the playoffs and be looking at a first It has been a team effort this season round match up against either the Cavaliers or the Boston Celtics.
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The Raiders Basketball team made school history as they reached the Regional Championship game for the first time since 2001. It was a successful season for the team despite a loss to Calvary Christian Academy in the Regional Finals. The team began 5-7 and went 14-4 the rest of the year, including a seven game win streak prior to the regional title. “Everybody just bought into their roles and started playing as a team as the season went on, and that was key to our superb playing the second half of the season,” said senior Evan Silberman. Although senior experience was key throughout the season, young and talented freshmen were at the helm of the run. Jamal Mashburn Jr, Tony Sanders, Gabe Taylor, and Diego Lamonica were the freshmen on the squad. They accounted for 82.1% of the team’s points per game. “Despite our weaknesses in the size department, our speed and skill were catalysts for our success during the season. This was especially apparent with our guards,” said senior Alaz Sengul. As the playoff run continued the game’s starting became progressively more intense and packed. All of the team’s playoff games were at home. In the playoffs they defeated Westminster Christian, Key West, Booker T. Washington, and Mater Lakes. The games against Booker T. and Mater Lakes (both regional games) were double digit wins. However, against Calvary Christian they finally ran into a team that was able to take advantage of the Raiders’ lack of height. Even though they didn’t get to states this year, the future is looking bright for the Raiders.
Miami Herald recognizes Gulliver student-athletes By David Akerman Co-Sports Editor “The Miami Herald” recognizes student-athletes after each sport season in their “All Dade” special feature. The student-athletes are separated into three teams, “1st team, 2nd team, and 3rd team.” There is also a section called “Honorable Mention” for the athletes that did not make any of the teams. A total of 15 Raider student-athletes were selected to 1st team, seven to the 2nd team, five to the 3rd team, and 29 to Honorable Mention, making that a total of 56 Raider studentathletes recognized.
Natalia Varela (Cross Country)
Chris Nido (Golf) Photo by Leslie Fuentes. Christian Hoyos (Football)
Isabella Lamus (Volleyball)
Mandy Alonso (Football)
Not pictured (1st Team, Swimming):
Miguel Cancel (Swimming) Photos by Fox Mar.
Sarah Abril, Emily Cordovi, Brooke Ellis, Trahern Gribble, Chloe Hernandez, Olivia Hernandez, Daniela Luchau, Alicia Mancilla, and Marcella Ruppert-Gomez
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Why the NFL should change its overtime rules NFL and College football have distincly different overtime rules. By Zachary Letson Staff Writer Some of the best football games of recent memory went back and forth. In some games, the team with the ball last wins. When both teams have a fair chance to score, the game is at its best. This is why the NFL overtime rules are unfair. A coin toss takes place, and the winner of that toss can end the game by scoring a touchdown. College Football has a different overtime set up. College not only gives both teams a fair chance to score, but also gives each team simply a better chance to score, as each team is only 25 yards from the end zone at the beginning of each
possession. Unlike the NFL, the coin flip determines who gets the ball first and second. Most teams decide to receive possession second, so they know how many points are needed to score to tie or win the game. In the NFL, many overtime games are decided with only one team holding possession. One of the most famous games in playoff history ended with Tim Tebow’s slant pass to Demaryius Thomas to beat Pittsburgh on the first play. The Steelers didn’t have time to catch their breath before the game was over. As thrilling as Super Bowl 51 was, Atlanta, one of the best offensive teams in the game, never saw the ball, and therefore left Houston empty handed.
Marlins sell on hold after potential ambassador move Marlins decide to put a potential selling of the team on hold By Zachary Letson Staff Writer
New Miami Marlins pitcher Mark Buehrle, left, and Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria laugh during a news conference at the Marlins Headquarter office in Miami, Florida, Friday, December 9, 2011. Buehrle signed his $58 million, four-year contract with the Miami Marlins after passing a physical. (David Santiago/El Nuevo Herald/MCT)
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Miami Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria had reportedly reached a handshake agreement to sell the franchise. Buying the team for 158 million in 2002, Loria set the net worth for the team at an astounding 1.6 Billion, which would make back Loria over 10 times his investment. Loria took over as owner in 2002, just a year before the franchise secured its second World Series championship. Saying things have changed since 2002 would be an understatement. The team moved it its new home, Marlins Park, in 2012. With that transition the team proceeded to change its colors and brand. Loria was criticized for the construction of the new ballpark, as the dome stadium, costing hundreds of millions to the city, was largely paid for in tax dollars. The team has seen a gradual, minimal improvement in its success over the past couple of seasons, but that could have
easily been overlooked. The team hasn’t seen a winning season since 2009, and a playoff appearance since its last World Series Championship in 2003. However, the move is up in the air with the potential of Loria becoming the U.S. ambassador to France. The potential buyer, Charles Kushner, made it clear that the purchase would not take place with a Loria ambassador transition. The family released a statement saying “We (Kushner family) do not want this unrelated transaction to complicate the process and will not pursue it.” Charles Kushner’s brother, Jared, is married to Ivanka Trump. The potential ambassador transition is President Trump’s decision, but the move was made without the approval of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. Even with the Kushner family appearing to back away, the potential of another buyer coming into play is always a possibility. However, a move like that is not likely to take place in the near future, and would take a few years.
Spotlight
What’s Boys baseball team goes blonde Happening in April? The boys baseball team players decided to dye their hair blonde for the season. “It was a team bonding experience to unit the team,” said freshman Christopher “CJ” Calero.
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Photos by Leigh Husband: 1: Team met up outside of school to dye hair together. 2: Players watch game from the dug out. 3: The team lined up to say pledge of allegiance before a game.
Read in Edinburgh, Scotland Senior Katherine Cohen and physics teacher Luis-Luis Fayat bumped into one another during spring recess, where they then took this photo with the Raider Voice Newspaper. The two saw each other while visiting Edinburgh Castle at the same time. Mr. Luis was on a tour throughout England, visiting London and Edinburgh during his visit. Cohen and her mother were staying in Scotland to sightsee and visit the University of Edinburgh. Photo provided by Katherine Cohen.
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Art Honor Society Induction
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NHS Induction
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Spring Recess Begins
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Spring Recess Ends
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Easter Sunday
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Art Show Opening Night
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