The Raider Voice February 2017

V The Presidential raider

Gulliver Preparatory School

6575 N Kendall Drive, Miami FL 33156

oice Vol. 15, Issue 4

February 10, 2017

Inauguration

www.theraidervoice.com

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IN THIS ISSUE 9

ON THE COVER Prep Students visit the Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C. as a part of Close Up program.

Photo by Grace Gilbert.

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OPINION College acceptances and deferrals. President Barack Obama’s eight years in office. Stop-!t app prevents bullying.

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NEWS Paul Ryan re-elected Speaker of the House. Model UN travels to Columbia University. Breakthrough Miami at Prep. Hispanic Cinema Club Movie Night.

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FEATURES Students respond to Prep bomb threat. Students attend Donald Trump’s Presidential Inauguration and march at Women’s Parade held in D.C.

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ENTERTAINMENT Addams Family showcased at Prep. Sherlock season four disappoints. Ed Sheeren ends hiatus. Kid Cudi album and Rogue One movie reviews.

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CONTENTS

SPORTS Super Bowl LI preview.

Should Ronda Rousey retire?

Varsity soccer team advances to regional quarter finals.

Editorial

OUR STAFF

Fort Lauderdale Airport Shooting Shooting at Fort Lauderdale International Airport shakes South Florida and raises questions about airport security.

On Jan. 6th, 26-year-old Esteban Santiago opened fire in Terminal 2 of the baggage claim area at Fort Lauderdale International Airport. After taking a connecting flight from Anchorage, AL through Minneapolis, MN, Santiago collected his one checked luggage item: an automatic handgun with ammunition.

He then loaded the weapon and began shooting aimlessly at innocent bystanders. People inside and outside the building frantically ran for safety, planes scheduled to take off were delayed hours on the Tarmac, and those arriving were rerouted to nearby airports. Dozens of other scheduled flights were canceled.

Eight people were injured in the horrific shooting, five of whom were killed. Nearly 40 others were wounded in the rushed evacuation from the building.

Officers immediately took the shooter into custody and identified him as an Alaskan security guard with military background and a license to carry the

Sound Off

gun. Although officials are responding and taking appropriate measures to avoid future occurrences, the incident brings to surface the question of traveling with firearms.

Baggage claim is a public area, where anyone off of the streets has open access, but the fact that this man was able to travel with the weapon is what makes it extremely alarming. While it is legal to travel with a checked unloaded gun, this man had prior run-ins with the law and made previous threats that are on record. So, why should he be still be allowed to carry a weapon, especially onto an airplane? Over the years, traveling has become more dangerous, and it is scary to see what could happen even with safety measures being followed. Tighter restrictions and more thorough background checks before allowing passengers to travel with weapons may be a proactive approach to this ever present danger.

Students voice their differing opinions regarding this controversial issue.

“This incident has reinforced the need for stronger gun control regulations and a more extensive background check method.”

- Manuel Cadavid, 12

“It’s people like this who have made air travel increasingly scary throughout the past few years.”

- Ross Shellow, 11

“I think everyone has a right to bear arms, but if it compromises safety, certain precautions must be taken.”

- Ella Wahlestedt, 12

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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I WAS ACCEPTED

By Aurora Hermida Entertainment Editor

would rather not know. But what if I did make it?

One...

It was a Thursday and I must’ve checked I clicked the button without thinking. the clock more than twenty times that A moment of pure numbness. The letter day. Within seven hours I would know appeared, and with a low breath I wiped my fate. I would find out if I actually proved to be a good enough candidate, or away the tears in my eyes in order to read if I was just another shot in the dark. Did properly.

“On behalf of the admissions all the years of hard work pay off? I knew committee, it is my honor and privilege the decisions were up the minute my to share with you that you have been clock switched to 5 p.m. I walked off to admitted to the Core Program in my room alone with my laptop in hand.

Liberal Studies at New York University.

I sat and stared at the time as I felt my Congratulations! I could not be more heart rapidly beat in my chest. excited to welcome you to NYU.” No shot, I’m not getting in.

Did I just read this correctly?

My main concern was having to tell I reread the letter. my mother. Having to tell your number Accepted. one supporter that you lost is the worst At that moment I truly understood how feeling in the world. My mother slowly walked into my room and sat next to me. everything could change from one minute to the next. The once tension-filled room The browser was open on my computer, was then filled with tears and high spirits. one mouse click away from my future.

I made it into my first choice school; no The only way I would be able to open other feeling could compare to the pure the letter would be if I were to count joy I felt in that moment. Everything I backwards from three. strived and hoped for was now fulfilled. I Three... hugged my mother, unable to pronounce My friends, who were sitting on the a coherent sentence as she kept on couch watching a movie, came into my repeating how proud she was. My friends, room. They crowded around me and left in tears of shock, kept murmuring looked towards me anxiously. How were about how they couldn’t believe it. they going to react when I read out my Neither could I, and I still can’t. But rejection letter? They probably all thought I know that I got accepted for a reasonI wasn’t going to get in either. just as much of a valid reason as why my Two… I sat still, tears of panic streaming down friends and people I know got rejected and deferred. Everyone will ultimately my face. I had never been so nervous in end up where they belong, and college my entire life. is only the beginning of many other Mouse hovering over the mailbox opportunities that we will be offered in notification, I couldn’t decided whether our future.

I wanted to open the letter or not.

Ignorance is bliss. If I didn’t make it, I

Your stories “When I got in to Cornell, it was a lot of emotions at once.

The decisions came out at 5 p.m. but I had to wait until I was with my grandma before I could open the decision (an hour later). Once I got there and finally opened the letter, I couldn’t believe it. I started crying immediately because I realized that everything I had worked for was worth it.”

- Taimaisu Ferrer

“I was screaming on the phone with a friend as I read my acceptance letter to the George Washington University.

My dad ran into my room, with the dogs following him, and we shared a huge hug. I called my 86-year-old grandpa first, and he cried as I told him the exciting news. That Monday night, I went to Prime One Twelve with my family for a celebratory dinner.”

- Talia Pfeffer

“I got into Emerson College near the middle of December right after the last midterm.

When I got the email, I ran to my mom so that we could open the decision together.

After that, it was a blur of celebration. I called my friends and they drove over to share the moment. It was an incredible feeling!”

- Marcela Royo

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OPINION

Your stories “When I got deferred from NYU, I was disappointed for sure. I texted my friends the result, and one of them who had also been deferred asked me if I wanted to get ice cream. Minutes later, she was at my door and we were off grabbing consolatory Chill-N. For a few hours, I allowed myself to be sad before I started thinking about what I needed to do next.”

- Claudia Picado

“When I read the decision, my heart sank, but one of my best friends was also not accepted so we spent the rest of the afternoon hanging out and trying to make each other feel better. Over time, I realized not getting accepted to my dream school wasn’t that bad because where I eventually go to college does not define me. It was obviously a disappointment not getting into Northwestern, but people told me I would be happy where I end up, and I believe that is very true.”

- Tyler Perez

I WAS deferred reasoning. It started to blow away that lingering scent of disappointment with reminders. You’ve already applied to all of It was a Tuesday after few long weeks your other schools. You will still get into of waiting, of days filled with constant college, nonetheless probably a good one. checks to collegeconfidential.com to see You will end up where you are meant to if the decisions had been released. Finally, be. You are still going to be reconsidered however, there it was. A little burgundy for regular decision. box on the portal, one click away from the Then the messages. Everyone was decision letter. After a long deep breath, incredibly supportive when I sent a with my brother and my mom watching succinct response to the various people from over my shoulder, I opened the asking for the result. They echoed that page. voice of reason in my head, and I started “After careful discussion, we were feeling better. Though I already knew unable to take a definite action on your what they were telling me, the fact that application and have deferred making a it was someone else offering reassurance decision at this time.” had more emphasis. After about a half of A heavy sigh, like a balloon letting out an hour of talking with my family, I took air and a sinking feeling. That was the a deep breath and went back to my room immediate reaction. to finish my homework for the night.

Though I had wrestled with my Now, I am waiting to hear back from expectations and hopes for weeks, those the rest of my colleges with a much lighter tricky emotions had fought their way into heart. Though that disappointment wafts the forefront of my mind. I’d be eating by randomly, it is accompanied with a lunch, and suddenly I’d be dreaming new form of optimism. After a deferral about my reaction if I would get in. I’d from a dream college, it is more than okay be settling in for bed, and I’d begin to to be disappointed. After news like that, it dream of being able to wear my Harvard is a good idea to grab a blanket and a cup sweatshirt proudly in the hallways. Each of tea. However, it is important to keep time, I would reply to my romanticism going. Apply to more colleges if necessary. with reality, with an emphasis on Research other colleges and picture a statistical improbability, but there would future there. Though it may be hard to still be that little flutter of excitement listen to that voice of reason and the good whenever I thought about a future at intentions of peers offering condolences, Harvard. they have good advice. At the end of My second reaction was the same the day, you will end up where you are realistic voice starting its emotionless supposed to be.

By Katherine Cohen Managing Editor

“It was pretty rough when I got deferred from UChicago.

When I found out, everyone responded with the “you’ll get in somewhere” line, which I know is true but it was hard to hear. Afterwards, I just went to sleep which was probably the best thing I could’ve done because I felt a lot better when I woke up.”

- Joao Kawase

OPINION

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put forward the Obama administration during his first year had a far reaching impact on the economic landscape of the country.

Despite over 60% of the country adversely disagreeing with a proposed automobile bailout, he did what was best for the country. The industry was on track to lose over seven million jobs. The auto industry was turned into a pocket of strength for the economic recovery, and according to the National Bureau of Economic Research it accounted for 25% of the recovery gains in manufacturing. GM and Chrysler returned to profitability just one year after the package. Yes the package, which has nearly all been paid off, was expensive; however, the impact of an estimated 3 million jobs saved, can not be overlooked.

Seven years after facing the greatest economic obstacle since the Great Depression, our economy is facing the longest stretch of job growth in the country’s history, with a 15.6 million private sector jobs being added in the past 81 months. This is all according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This economy is an imperfect one still facing serious issues, however, it is one that CNBC called “the biggest parting gift to the next president.”

The economic impact of Obama’s presidency was far reaching and beneficial, however it pales in comparison to his record on social policy. After eight years of social progress, Obama’s social U.S. President Barack Obama jokes with Vice-President Joe Biden after he policies may have been the most impactful since Lyndon B presented him the Medal of Freedom during an event in the State Dining room of the White House, Jan. 12, 2017 in Washington, D.C. (Olivier Johnson’s “Great Society.”

Douliery/Abaca Press/TNS) The social landscape of America has never been more tolerant or full of progress. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, an estimated 20 million people have gained health insurance. For the first time in this country’s proud history, more than 90% of Americans now have health insurance. It is true the ACA President Obama departs the White House after somewhat violated insurance company’s freedoms, however, eight years at the helm. He now hands the torch to it expanded freedom for the common American. It allowed Donald Trump.

Americans to buy affordable health insurance even with preTyler Perez existing conditions, which was not possible before.

Co-Sports Editor Obama also was crucial in victory of the basic human right, which is to love who you want to love. He became the first For all intents and purposes Barack Obama will always be president to openly support gay marriage, and appointed Promy president. While I, a young teenager, was simply just trying LGBT supreme court judges, who were crucial in the Obergefell to grow up and discover my own place in this world, he was v.

Hodges court ruling. He also passed numerous executive someone I could look up to. Through his compassion for others actions preventing discrimination and violence against people and through his fortitude in the wake of tenacious opposition, solely based on their sexual orientation.

Obama was the epitome of what it meant to be presidential-Obama’s ability not to back down on the clear and present inside or outside the Oval Office. danger that man made climate change presents, is his The 44th president began his term faced with repugnant accomplishment which will stand the test of the time. One that opposition aiming to delegitimize his presidency by questioning will allow our kids and their kids to participate in not only the his place of birth. Instead of having our guns taken away American dream, but a global world to believe in. Fast tracking and establishing a quasi-communist authoritarian state as and being at the helm of the Paris Climate agreement is one of his detractors feared, we were given an America that is both the best known environmental accomplishments of his eight categorically and quantitatively better off than it was eight years years in office, which was accomplished through limiting carbon ago. pollution from plants, rejecting the keystone XL pipeline, The new president is stepping into a country that possesses promoting a fuel-efficiency standard of 54.5 MPG, banning a prosperous and thriving economy, and one that shares little offshore drilling in Alaska’s Bristol Bay, and much more. The to no resemblance of the crumbling one Obama faced when country and the world will be a much better place in no large he took office. It would be misguided to say that Obama was part due to Barack Obama. the sole catalyst in the recovery during the wake of the Great And that is why, I can say without hesitations, thanks Obama, Recession. However, there is no doubt that the specific policies for giving me a country to believe in and one to be proud of.

Thank you, Obama

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NEWS

Preventing Bullying with Stop !t Students install new app to help report and prevent bullying in schools

The Gulliver Prep Players will present The Addams Family at the Historic Miami Scottish Rite Temple on Feb. 9-11.

Marcela Royo Features Editor In August, Gulliver implemented a new way to fight against bullying by using the app “Stop !t.”

With modern technology, bullying took on other forms beyond just face-to-face harassment. With the popularity and widespread usage of cell phones and a plethora of social media platforms, there are now more ways than ever before to bully and torment others.

The Stop !t app responds to this new evolution by using these new platforms to stop bullying. The app provides a way to report cases of bullying, whether over the web or in person.

It allows students to send messages in the form of pictures, videos, or texts to faculty disclosing any issues of concern or harassment. These messages are anonymous, providing a safe space for students to be completely honest. It is available to anyone who has seen or been a victim of bullying where both parties can receive advice on how to address the situation Miller Drive Assistant Principal George Hart, along with a team of other faculty members brought the app to the students’ attention on the first day of school to ensure everyone downloaded the app and felt safe while at school. The purpose of the app is not only to address the issue of bullying in the form of verbal and online harassment, but to help expand a sense of comfort within the community.

“The most important thing is to create an inclusive environment and ensure that everyone feels welcomed,” said Hart.

The app can be downloaded in the app store for any phone service. To register through Gulliver, download the app and enter the access code “Goraiders.” Not only can students report and issue using the app, they speak with an anonymous person to work through a variety of issues related to maintaining one’s mental health.

“I think it’s an effective way to make Gulliver a friendlier and safer community. It will hopefully make people more considerate about the way they treat others,” said senior Sarah Menasce.

3 Easy Steps to Set Up and Use Stop !t: 1: Search “Stop !t” in the App Store 2: Enter “raiders” as your Gulliver Activation Code 3: Once your account is activated, you can begin to use the app.

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Paul Ryan re-elected Speaker of House The vote to re-elect Paul Ryan as Speaker of the House was nearly unanimous.

By Brigitte Isom Contributing Writer The same hands that held the gavel in the House of Representatives since Oct. 2015 will hold another two years.

Paul Ryan, 46, was re-elected Speaker of the House on Jan 3. at the House of Representatives Chamber.

The Wisconsin native ran against Democratic candidates Nancy Pelosi, Tim Ryan, Jim Cooper, John Lewis, and Republican candidate Daniel Webster, according to the The “Washington Post.” Ryan received 239 of the votes, and Pelosi received 189. The other candidates received votes in the single digits. Every Republican representative voted for Ryan except Thomas Massie.

Ryan’s near unanimous win testified his party’s strength and domination in the House, a force that will be working to repeal acts made during the Obama administration. According to the U.S. House of the Representatives Press Gallery, there are currently 241 Republicans and 194 Democrats in the house.

Patrick Griffin (Social Sciences teacher) outlined the role of the House Speaker.

“The main responsibility of the Speaker of the House is to coordinate and lead the efforts of the House of Representatives,” said Griffin.

He explained that House Speaker also holds House sessions, brings forward potential bills, especially those that concern money, and directs how those bills will be debated, among other responsibilities.

“On top of all of that, Speaker Ryan must represent the House itself publicly, and the Republican Caucus to a great extent, while also coordinating with the Senate and President.

Our Constitution defines the primary responsibility of all federal employees, be they Speaker, President, etc..., as upholding the Constitution itself and what it represents in the interest of ‘we the people,‘“ he said.

Moreover, Republicans are looking forward to more progress under Paul Ryan and the Republican administration of President Trump. However, not everyone agrees.

“I feel like he won’t do anything monumental or bring any changes,” said freshman Julia Izquierdo.

Griffin explained that with a majority of Republican members in the House and a Republican House Speaker, passing bills will happen faster.

“When one party controls House, Senate, and the Presidency, passing legislation is much quicker and easier. The danger when you unified rule in this way is that when one party has all of the power, it tends to unify the opposition and encourages the majority party coalition to argue among its own members,” Griffin said.

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NEWS

Top: House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wisc., at a mock swearing-in ceremony in the U.S. Capitol . The legislating to repeal and replace Obamacare will happen this year. (Bill Clark/Congressional Quarterly/Zuma /Press/TNS). Bottom: President Donald Trump shakes hands with House Speaker Paul Ryan as he is joined by the Congressional leadership, in the President’s Room of the Senate, at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., January 20, 2017. (J. Scott Applewhite/TNS)

During Ryan’s acceptance speech, he addressed his new policies titled “A Better Way.” One of these policies includes repealing and replacing President Obama’s Affordable Care Act. Whether or not doing so is “a better way” is a topic of debate nationwide.

“It’s a good name, but he hasn’t been doing anything good, like defunding planned parenthood,” said Izquierdo.

“Speaker Ryan’s policies are long established as a part of Republican thinking in terms of budget and spending, going back to his time on the Ways and Means Committee,” said Griffin.

How this coalition then interacts with Donald Trump’s policy vision will likely determine the next four years to a great degree.

Top: The banner for the 16th annual Columbia Model United Nations Conference and Exposition over a cityscape of New York. Bottom: Left: A photo of the Columbia University campus. Center: Kiran Masroor, Sophia Derlon, Daniella Vasquez, and Cami Mou pose in Grand Central Station. Right: Joey Elsbernd, Katherine Cohen, Sophia Derlon, sponsor Manual Santilices, and Matthew Garcia take a selfie in Time Square while showing off their dinner of McDonald’s.

Model UN Team Competes at CMUNCE XVI The Gulliver Model United Nations team wins awards at the Columbia University MUN Conference

By Katherine Cohen Managing Editor

National Security Cabinet to Mount Olympus to discussion of the Kashmir The Model United Nations Team Partition. For the students, the days were performed well at the 2017 Columbia grueling, filled with secrets missions with Model United Nations Conference and spies and the occasional assassination as Exposition. each delegate tried to find unique and The conference, which was mostly often covert solutions to the problem at based on historical crises, followed the hand. parliamentary procedure of the United “CMUNCE allowed me to go beyond Nations. From Jan. 12-15, students learning about a certain conflict within debated various issues which they the constraints of a textbook. I was able responded to by passing committee-wide to truly delve into my character’s ideas directives and sending personal notes to and opinions regarding a crisis which crisis for individual actions. expanded the different perspectives of The committees offered in this trip were history,” said senior Carla Guillamon. incredibly diverse, ranging from Nixon’s In addition to the conference, students

enjoyed the time in New York City, especially after it snowed on the third day of the trip. After a couple hours of debate, the team gathered outside. Somehow, a snowball was thrown, precipitating a massive snowball fight in which all members of the team happily joined in.

“It was a great first trip to New York City, and the snowball fight was epic!” said freshman Joey Elsbernd.

Chiara von Gerlach and Eugenia Giampetruzzi won Best Delegate in their committees, Carla Guillamon won Outstanding Delegate, and Xavier Moncada and Daniella Vasquez earned Honorable Mentions.

NEWS

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The New & Improved World Language Club Hispanic Cinema Club changes its name and format to be more inclusive to other cultures

By Katia Perez Contributing Writer

Breakthrough Miami helps under-resourced youth Breakthrough Miami provides students with volunteer opportunities

By Maddy Feinberg Contributing Writer Breakthrough Miami is an eight-year program that helps students from under-resourced communities with their education and future goals. There are six independent schools that are involved with the program’s activities: Gulliver Schools, Ransom Everglades, Miami Country Day School, Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, Palmer Trinity, and University of Miami.

“The teachers involved with Breakthrough encourage you to do your best, and they not only prepare you for school, but they prepare you for life,” said freshman Joy Hall.

Breakthrough Miami has a six-week Summer Institute as well as a Saturday school-year program that encourages middle school students to graduate from top college-prep high schools and four-year colleges and universities.

In the program, older students mentor, teach, tutor, and encourage the younger students to achieve their goals.

“The most interesting part about Breakthrough Miami are the bonds we have with our teachers, because they are college students and not so far from our age, so we get close and keep in contact,” said Hall.

Gulliver is very involved in Breakthrough’s program and so far have had two meetings on Saturdays that were set up by science teacher Yoly McCarthy and engineering teacher Claude Charron. The next two meetings will be held on Jan. 23 and Apr. 4. Students are assigned to create egg drop machines, water bottle rockets, and have started learning to code.

“The opportunity for our own students to create lessons for the younger kids.

The younger kids are getting a benefit but I think our kids are getting a bigger benefit from seeing the fruits of their labor and to see the learning process of other children,” said McCarthy.

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NEWS

The World Language Club is currently holding a contest in search of new artwork for the club’s logo and t-shirt design. Students who are artistically inclined and wish to participate can submit artwork for a prize. The Prep’s World Language Club, which has now been active for five years, is composed of a diverse group of students that come together to celebrate the different cultures represented at school.

“Our objective is to help students learn a language outside of the classroom and come together as a community” said the club’s sponsor, Silvia Muñoz.

The club was formerly called Hispanic Cinema Club because for the past four years, it has held monthly movie nights during which Hispanic/Latino movies were shown. Prior to this school year, the films shown were exclusively in Spanish, but this year, for the first time, the club is showing films that incorporate other languages and cultures. This change was made in order to branch out and attract members from a more diverse variety of cultures, as represented by the student body.

In order to allow viewers to experience a wider variety of cultures, each month a different culture is distinguished, and the movie night for that month will show a film in that culture’s language. Since the change was made to incorporate other cultures and languages than just Spanish, the name was modified to be World Language Club instead of Hispanic Cinema Club.

The club’s movie nights are held on Fridays in the student union, and are open to all student who wish to go, regardless of whether they are a member of the club or not. Some foreign language teachers even offer extra credit for attending one of these movie nights.

Miami Participates in Worldwide Women’s March in Downtown City of Miami hosts Sister March outside of Bayfront Amphitheater in Downtown Miami.

By Claudia Picado Copy & Online Editor On Jan. 21, over 10,000 Miamians of all ages gathered together in at Bayfront Park Amphitheater and throughout Downtown Miami for the Women’s Rally of South Florida. This was just one of over 600 sister marches of the Women’s March on Washington that took place not only in every U.S. state, but on all seven continents.

The Women’s March on Washington took place the Saturday following President Trump’s inauguration, for the purpose of making their concerns with the new administration known on day one. Throughout President Trump’s campaign, he made a number of controversial remarks about women, immigrants, Muslims, and other minorities, and the worldwide march was meant to take a stand against the beliefs and policies of Trump and his administration.

“In the spirit of democracy and honoring the champions of human rights, dignity, and justice who have come before us, we join in diversity to show our presence in numbers too great to ignore.

The Women’s March on Washington will send a bold message to our new government on their first day in office, and to the world that women’s rights are human rights. We stand together, recognizing that defending the most marginalized among us is defending all of us,” says the official website of the Women’s March about their mission According to the Women’s March website, 673 marches were led worldwide, with approximately 4.9 million participants total. The marches in Los Angeles (750,000) Washington D.C. (575,000), New York City (450,000), and Chicago (250,000) drew the largest crowds, though hundreds of marches took place across the country, including

here in Miami. There was even a small group of international travelers in Antarctica marching in solidarity. The main march in Washington saw a crowd significantly larger than the 160,000 at Trump’s inauguration the day prior, and was reportedly the largest day of protests United States history.

Locally, the Women’s March in South Florida took place at Bayfront Park Amphitheater, but eventually spilled out into Downtown Miami and Brickell, with marchers even going down I-95, causing traffic delays.

“Even though the march in Miami was small (approx. 10,000) compared to the one in Washington, it was really inspiring to march alongside so many people in such a supportive and welcoming environment,” said senior Joanne Park.

Before the march broke out, there were several figures in the Miami community that spoke to the crowd, including City of Miami Commissioner Ken Russell, State Representative Daisy Baez, Miami Beach Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, and Pinecrest Mayor Cindy Lerner. Women’s and minority rights, climate change, and immigration issues were discussed by the multitude of speakers, and organizations like the League of Women Voters, Rethink Energy Florida, and the ACLU of Florida, were also present as sponsors of the event.

“Women’s rights are still an important issue in society under this new administration, especially a woman’s right to choose and equal pay. It was an honor to walk along with nearly 10,000 other people at this historic march,” said senior Catie Schwartzman.

Right: Thousands of marchers walk through Downtown Miami and Brickell during the Women’s Rally in South Florida. Different signs from the march are shown. Photos by Claudia Picado.

A Sign of the Times

RAIDE RS unite

By Talia Pfeffer Design Editor

Students and faculty at the Prep campus were stunned on the morning of Feb. 6 when what seemed to be a routine evacuation drill turned out to be the result of a phoned-in bomb threat.

Students, faculty and administration followed safety protocol, evacuating the entire campus. Soon afterwards, Pinecrest Police and fire rescue appeared on the scene, closing surrounding streets.

Word spread rather quickly as a news helicopter circled overhead, and media outlets shared information as it became available.

The time spent outside during the evacuation, ended up bringing a sense of togetherness to the school community.

Student musicians played songs around a cheering crowd, the newspaper staff took photos and video, and guidance counselors walked around offering free

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hugs to students and faculty in need.

After a meeting between administration and faculty, students lined up and headed to the sidewalk outside of campus. Streets surrounding the Prep were closed, and K-9 units scoped the area with WSVN/ Channel 7’s, Rebecca Vargas, reporting live. Buses arrived to transport all students and employees to the Miller Drive Campus, which was declared safe.

As students arrived, parents lined up around the school to pick up their children, and, in some cases, their friends.

Pizza, snacks and drinks were brought in for students and faculty while they waited. All possessions were left behind at the Prep campus, until police issued an “all-clear.”

After 4:00 pm, it was safe to return to the Prep, and students were able to get their cars and collect their belongings

until 9:00 pm that evening. When the student body returned on Friday for school, they gathered for an 8:00 am assembly, held by the administration. As the students and faculty filled the Blue Dungeon, Head-of-Schools Frank Steel and Principal Jonathan Schoenwald addressed the crowd regarding the threat and everyone’s response to safety protocol. They commended students and faculty for their leadership and responsibility on a day where everything and everyone was tested. They also offered an opportunity express any ideas or suggestions via email.

Administration and law enforcement are examining the threat to the Prep’s security, but there is still no word on the progression of this case.

Top: A news chopper circles the campus, as students prepare to leave the campus. Left: Pinecrest police were on the scene, ensuring the area was safe and secure. Above: Once at the Miller Drive campus, students received pizza slices, snacks and drinks while they waited for their parents. Photos by Monica Rodriguez.

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Attending the Inauguration Students traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the 2017 Presidential Inauguration and meet with legislators and representatives. experience this history in the making.

The students served as participants of Close Up’s Inauguration Program, which hosted roughly another 2,600 high school Every four years, all eyes are on the students from around the country. nation’s capital as a new American is sworn in as President of the United States. From Jan. 16-22, participants were given a “close up” look at the country’s On Jan. 20, following a year of political rivalry, debates, and scandals, Republican government and democracy in action. candidate Donald J. Trump took the oath Using Washington D.C. as a week-long interactive classroom, students attended of the highest office in the land. political lectures, debates, seminars, and On the Monday approaching the workshops to discuss issues including ceremony, 22 Prep and Miller Drive gender equality, juvenile rehabilitation, students arrived in Washington D.C. to minimum wage, LGBT rights, the

By Brooke Ellis Editor-in-Chief

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FEATURE

environment, and health care. They also held mock Congress sessions to replicate the process of lobbying and passing bills that are currently being reviewed by members of Congress.

“One morning, we went to Capitol Hill to meet with representatives and senators to ask about their positions on issues with the newly-inducted administration,” said senior Alejandro Sanz, “it was incredible to get a real life perspective of it all.”

Other days, participants visited the Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln monuments, as well as the World War II

3 2

4 5 memorial and the new African American History Museum.

The day of the Inauguration ceremony, lines opened at 4 a.m. Students separated into groups according to schools. The several-hour-long ceremony commenced with the arrival of political leaders and concluded with the new president addressing the entire country. That night, all participants attended an Inaugural ball.

“Regardless of political preferences, I think we all experienced a piece of

1: Students walk by the Jefferson Memorial towards the Inauguration. 2: Seniors Madeline Epstein, Grace Gilbert, Alejandro Sanz, and Alejandro Muñoz stand in front of the Washington Monument. 3: A megatron displaying President Trumps campaign slogan hangs overhead. 4: Students wait outside the Lincoln Memorial for the pre-inaugural festivities. 5: Supporters gather to march in the Women’s Rally. Photos by Grace Gilbert.

unforgettable history,” said senior Alejandro Muñoz.

On the Saturday after the ceremony, schools were given an “off-program day.” Students had the option of taking tours of colleges in the District and Baltimore, visiting additional tourist attractions around town, or marching in the organized Women’s March on Washington.

One of the largest turnouts in history, a reported 500,000 people marched in D.C. and nearly 3 million others worldwide.

Gloria Steinem, Amy Schumer, America Ferrera, Michael Moore, Madonna, and Scarlett Johansson were just a few of the big name celebrities present at the event.

Protesters stood together in solidarity for protection of womens’ rights, safety, and health regardless of differences including race, religion, and sexual identity.

“We marched all day long,” said senior Grace Gilbert, “I’ve never seen so many women and men united to support such an important cause.”

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Lauren Pelletier ‘17 Daniel Cano ‘17

“I hope to make and save more money this year for college.

Apart from my job at Old Navy, I’ve started tutoring Academy students.”

“My resolution is to graduate high school and not slack off, as well as, do more things that make me happy.

I hope to keep both for at least the rest of the school year but the procrastination is real.”

Amicie Le Roy Le Rae ‘17

“I hope to do more things out of my comfort zone. I try and do one thing every week and I hope to keep it for longer than just this year.”

SWEET emotions

Above: The fruity nut waffle is topped with bananas and strawberries, nutella, and whipped cream. Right: Homemade Challah bread is baked every Friday morning.

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FEATURES

By Talia Pfeffer Design Editor

RAIDER resolutions Taking advantage of the New Year, many decide to set a resolution to change something in their daily lives. We asked students what their resolutions are, if they have kept them and if so how long they think it will continue.

Taste of Emotions is the slogan of Gourmandine, and once I sunk my teeth into the fruity nut waffle, joy and love were the emotions evoked.

Nestled in the Dadeland North Shopping Center in Glenvar Heights, this hidden gem is easy to pass by with giants such as Smoothie King and Starbucks, for neighbors. Gourmandine blows the competition away in the deliciousness factor, the moment you walk inside.

From what feels like a foodie’s journey through Paris, you can smell the waffles and crepes being made, nearly salivate over the Nutella being drizzled over frozen yogurt, and melt as you order a cup of freshly brewed coffee up at the counter from owner, Francois.

Not only was the waffle I ordered delectable, I was offered a bite of the Friday challah, and was instantly transported to Shabbat dinner surrounded by family over in the holy land of Israel. The challah is made in shop every Friday morning, so it’s the ideal place to get your Sabbath bread, and make a rich, Saturday morning French toast.

A comfortable hangout to relax with friends, and a guarantee to taste sweet emotions, Gourmandine is sure to be your new favorite weekend spot.

Marcella Rupert Gomez ‘18

Sophia Esquenazi ‘17 Hannah Venzer ‘17

“My resolution is to stay healthy and drink more water as well as do more things that make me happy. It’s a bit hard but I’m really trying”

“My New Years Resolution is to do more exercises.

However, I haven’t really started yet.

When I do, I hope that I can keep it up for at least a month or two after I start.”

Lucie Gideau ‘18

“I hope to stop procrastinating.

Block scheduling has helped a bit but I don’t think I will be able to entirely stop my procrastination.”

“I’ve been trying to be more organized and also be healthier.

I haven’t started being healthier but I have been more organized though I think it will fade out in a couple months.”

now

in

Shyamalan spooks audiences in new psychological horror “Split”

By Evan Silberman News Editor When three girls are kidnapped by a man with 23 distinct personalities, they must try and escape before the emergence of a twenty-fourth. M. Night Shyamalan’s newest thriller “Split” brings an interesting and fresh film to theaters.

The movie stars James McAvoy as the main character Kevin Wendell. McAvoy is known for his role as Charles Xavier in the recent X-Men series. McAvoy’s character in “Split”, Kevin, has twentythree distinct personalities and does an excellent acting job in the film switching between personalities. The other characters Kevin becomes include Hedwig a nine-year old boy and a woman called Miss Patrica. He often goes to his psychiatrist Dr. Karen Fletcher, played

by Betty Buckley, but even her expertise can’t help Kevin. The film brings light to the difficulties people with what is known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) must deal with.

Throughout the movie a more powerful

twenty-fourth persona is often referenced to be “coming”. In order to bring out the twenty-fourth personality which is known as “The Beast”, Kevin must continue to grow stronger by feeding on innocent people, which is why he takes three girls captive.

Claire (Haley Lu Richardson) and Marcia (Jessica Sula), along with misfit Casey (Anya Taylor-Joy), are kidnapped by one of Kevin’s alternative personalities, “Dennis”, and taken to an unknown bunker type cell to be prepared as “scared food”. Before that happens the girls must try to escape by using Kevin’s different personalities to their advantage by manipulating them to let the girls free.

The movie goes through many unexpected twists and turns in typical Shyamalan fashion, which keeps the audience engaged and ultimately makes “Split” an intriguing movie from start to finish.

By Marcela Royo Features Editor

Katerina Navarro, 9

“

Split is a horror movie, but I thought it was more creepy and messed up, than scary.

”

Mr. Michael Sylver

“

Great photography, and excellent acting by Mark Wahlberg. It should definitely win awards.

Laura Attarian, 9

”

“

This deserved all of the Golden Globe awards. It was beautifully scored and choreographed.

FEATURES

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Kid Cudi’s new album Passion, Pain, & Demon Slayin’ is available for streaming on Apple Music, Soundcloud Go, and Spotify.

“Passion, Pain, & Demon Slayin’” Cudi is back and better than ever

By Aurora Hermida Entertainment Editor Singer and rapper Scott Mescudi, known as Kid Cudi, dropped the long awaited album P ​ assion, Pain &

Demon​ Slayin’ after returning from rehab. Passion, Pain & Demon​Slayin’, the musicians’ sixth studio album and contains 17 tracks.

The first track off the album, “Frequency”, was released as a single along with​“S​urfin’” back in September. ​ “Frequency” is a low-voiced ballad in which Cudi describes his nighttime adventures, incorporating moans in the background that he continues to use throughout almost every song in the album.

“By Design (ft. Andre Benjamin)” is a funky rap song which features ex Outkast member Andre Benjamin (Andre 3000) rapping on top of a repeated Latin back-beat songs such as “ILLusions” and ​“Surf​in’ (ft. Pharrell)”. It was clearly written from Cudi’s longtime battle with depression, and his recovery last fall.

Cudi then collaborates with young singer Willow Smith ​in “R​ose Golden,” a passionate track in which the duo explains surpassing obstacles encountered on the way to greatness while singing on top of a fluid orchestral soundtrack.

“Baptized In Fire​​(ft. Travis Scott)” is a track which describes the difficulties of living a sober life. Rapping on top of a mellow hip-hop beat, Texas native rapper Travis Scott and Mescudi successfully manage to hype up the song through their lyrics and use of tone.

Mescudi spews annoyance towards the med​ia in his song “D​oes It,” when he acknowledges the neglect the media shows toward him.

The album continues with mellow love songs su​ch as “D​ance​4 Eternity” and “Kitchen,” but later picks up with another Andre Benjamin fe​ature called ​“The Guide.”

The album closes off well with ​“Surfin,” the second single off the album which features Pharrell Williams, including “Flight at First Sight/Advanced.” Cudi sings and raps about how he successfully “surfs on his own wave,” meaning that he does whatever makes him happy without the letting the negative influences of others affect him. Cudi successfully uses his problems to make beautiful music that helps and inspires others.

Ed Sheeran returns after a year-long hiatus “Shape of You” and “Castle on the Hill” climb Billboard charts

By Marcela Royo Features Editor

On Dec. 13, exactly one year from his announced hiatus, Ed Sheeran returned to media platforms by posting a blue image on all his accounts. It was later revealed that the blue image was the color of his new album titled “Divide”.

His hiatus consisted of removing himself from all social media and taking a rest from his music career. While out of the spotlight Sheeran worked on new music and personal life.

“I was excited to see he came out of his break and that he released music so fast, I can’t wait to hear the full album,” said senior Sofia Tormo.

On Jan. 1, Sheeran entered the new year by posting on Facebook, Twitter and

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LIFESTYLES

Instagram the same video of him holding a paper that said “New Music Coming Friday.” A few days later on Jan. 6, two new singles were released beginning his come back to the music scene.

Both singles are very different from his past works now featuring more upbeat and light instruments. Along with the new beats, the lyrics are also more upbeat themes than those in his previous album’s “X” and “+”.

On Jan. 11 he took to social media once again to post an image of all the song titles on the new album. A day later with another post, Sheeran released the date of the full album to be on Mar. 3.

Having only been back for a couple weeks Sheeran is already back at the top of many music charts.

Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman star as Sherlock and Watson in BBC’s smash hit Sherlock.

Season 4 can be streamed via iTunes.

Sherlock’s Final Season Disappoints The long awaited season isn’t what fans anticipated

By Claudia Picado Online & Copy Editor Typically, viewers only have to wait a few months for the next season of their favorite show to return to their television screens, but this is not the case with BBC’s “Sherlock”. “Sherlock” breaks this rule, releasing new seasons every two

years since 2010. While the quality of the writing, acting, and cinematography usually makes up for the interminable wait, this season’s culmination left many fans disillusioned.

I have been a fan of Sherlock since 2013, forced to rewatch episodes from the three existing seasons in anticipation of the fourth. Each season is made up of only three episodes.

These episodes are 90 minutes long and have the production value of an action/ mystery film you could find in theaters, but the number of episodes along with the two year gaps in between seasons leaves viewers like myself desperate for more.

While the 2016 Christmas special “The Abominable Bride” was able to temporarily satisfy my “Sherlock” cravings, it left me with overly high expectations for the season to come, which ultimately let me down.

The first episode of season four, “The Six Thatchers” kicked the series off to a peculiar start, killing off major character Mary Watson unnecessarily. The second episode, “The Lying Detective” was my personal favorite, as, unlike the two other episodes, it felt like an episode that could have fit into a previous season. Sherlock is tasked with proving that one of the most powerful entrepreneurs in Britain is a

serial killer, while simultaneously trying to reconcile with John Watson, who blames Sherlock for the death of his wife.

While the first two episodes of the season were interesting, my main problem was with the season, and possibly the series, finale.

“The Final Problem” premiered on PBS on Jan. 15, leaving millions of viewers in the United States and the United Kingdom questioning whether the series was over. While the majority of the episode was fast paced and captivating, revealing the existence of Sherlock’s younger sister, who he previously had no memories of, and that she met with Jim Moriarty, the show’s long time villain.

Once the plot of the episode was resolved, it culminated with an “and they all lived happily ever after” ending, with Sherlock and his sidekick Watson returning to their apartment on Baker Street, just like old times. It even included a cheesy action shot of the pair running away from a fiery explosion in the background.

When the credits began, I was left speechless; saddened by the strange and disappointing turn one of my favorite shows had taken, leaving me questioning whether I would even watch the next season if the show does indeed continue.

Rogue One fulfills high expectations of Star Wars fans The Star Wars franchise continues to expand universe with new movie franchises

By Romia Shadravan Contributing Writer

“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” broke barriers on Dec. 16, by casting various actors of different ethnicities and backgrounds and becoming the second highest grossing film of 2016.

Throughout the film, characters from different backgrounds were introduced, including Cassian Andor, played by Mexican actor Diego Luna. Luna was able to play his character without changing or eliminating his Mexican accent, which gained him praise on social media.

Many fans were proud to see a principal character in one of the biggest blockbusters of the year not have to hide

his heritage for his role.

“As a proud Latino, I found it inspiring that Diego Luna had the opportunity to take on that role. It sets an example that Latinos can have a place in pop culture,” said senior Gabriel Meler.

There was also a female lead in the film, Felicity Jones, who played the film’s protagonist Jyn Erso. This is the second time the franchise features a female lead, with the first being Daisy Ridley as Rey in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”. Many fans have reacted positively to this new change “I am glad to see more female characters to the Star Wars franchise, and see how our definition of ‘normal’ has changed

so much from when the first movie came out,” said junior Abril Beretta.

Two other essential characters were Chirrut Imwe and Baze Malbus, who were played by Chinese actors Donnie Yen and Jiang Wen. Both were vital characters throughout the film, and Yen won over fans by being the closest thing to a Jedi in the film.

The Star Wars franchise has evolved over time and is now casting more diverse actors in every film. Directors took a leap with “Rogue One” by not only casting a female lead as in a “The Force Awakens”, but also by having a very ethnically and culturally diverse cast of characters.

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New England Patriots quarter Tom Brady celebrates as the Patriots beat the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in Super Bowl LI on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

(Curtis Compton/Atlanta JournalConstitution/TNS)

Brady Cements Legacy with 5th Super Bowl as Patriots make historic comeback Super Bowl LI was the first in history to go into OT.

By Zachary Letson Staff Writer

Tom Brady all but finalized his case for the best quarterback of all-time with his performance down the stretch in the Patriots dramatic Super Bowl LI (51) win.

At one point in the game Brady was struggling as he never had before in a game as big as the Super Bowl. New England was getting outplayed in every aspect. No team had done this to the Patriots this season with Brady

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SPORTS

playing. The Patriots had only lost two games in the regular season, one to the Buffalo Bills, which was when Brady was suspended and then to the Seattle Seahawks.

With the Falcons leading 28-3 towards the end of the third quarter, it looked as if the game was over. The Falcons seemed to be in full command, and their offense, as it had done all year, had taken control of the game. However, the Patriots would

then outscore the Falcons 31-0 for the rest of the game.

A Patriots defense that had been praised all year, and one that was more than capable of controlling the line of scrimmage, strung together some stops to cool down MVP Matt Ryan and Atlanta’s high-flying offense, allowing the offense to get the team back into the game.

When all was said and done, Brady finished with 43 completions for 466 yards (more than 200 were in the 4th Quarter), and was named the Super Bowl’s Most Valuable Player.

Brady was assisted in a big way by running back James White, who caught 14 passes for 110 yards and one touchdown. The receiving touchdown was the Patriots’ first touchdown of the game, coming with two minutes left in the third quarter. He also had two rushing touchdowns. The first one was the one that brought the Patriots to within two points of the Falcons. Wide receiver Danny Amendola then converted a two point conversion that tied the game with less than a minute left. White’s second touchdown won the game and finished off the largest comeback in Super Bowl history. Their 25 point comeback is more than double the second largest, which also belongs to the Patriots from Super Bowl XLIX against the Seahawks. Brady later said that he thought White deserved the MVP and that he would give the truck he won to White. Brady did something similar with defensive back Malcolm Butler in 2015.

According to an article from NFL.com Brady said “Thank you to all our fans.

Everyone back in Boston, New England, we love you. You’ve been with us all year. We’re bringing this sucker home!”

With Brady’s fifth ring, he moves into a tier of his own, becoming the only starting quarterback to win five Super Bowls.

Brady and Coach Bill Belichick also became the only player-coach duo to win five Super Bowls together. The two have been part of each of the Patriots five Super Bowl victories. The victories have come in 2002, 2004, 2005, 2015, and 2017.

COMMENTARY

Chris Ware caricature of Ronda Rousey (TNS). Ronda Jean Rousey is an American mixed martial artist, judoka and actress. She was the first UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, as well as the last Strikeforce Women’s Bantamweight Champion. MCT Campus

Ronda Rousey’s Fights in the UFC UFC 157 vs. Liz Carmouche: Win via Submission UFC 168 vs. Miesha Tate: Win via Submission UFC 170 vs. Sara McMann: Win via Technical Knockout UFC 175 vs. Alexis Davis: Win via Knockout UFC 184 vs. Cat Zingano: Win via Submission UFC 190 vs. Bethe Correia: Win via Knockout UFC 193 vs. Holly Holm: Loss via Knockout UFC 207 vs. Amanda Nunes: Loss via Technical Knockout

Should Former UFC Champion Ronda Rousey Retire?

Rousey has now been knocked out in her last two fights, both for the championship against, Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes.

By David Akerman Co-Sports Editor “Fear The Return.” “She’s Back.” That is how the UFC was advertising Ronda Rousey’s return to the octagon after more than a year away. Rousey’s last fight was at UFC 193 on Nov. 15, 2015. It was this fight Rousey was knocked out by Holly Holm in the second round, losing her Bantamweight Championship Title and ending a reign of dominance in the sport that had lasted for nearly three years. It was the first loss in Rousey’s UFC career as well as her professional MMA career.

Just over a year later, she had the chance to take back her throne at UFC 207, this time against Amanda Nunes, who was defending her belt. Many fans picked Rousey to win back her title, but the fight was an onslaught to Rousey by way of Nunes. Within the first seconds of the fight, Nunes took control, throwing combinations at Rousey that she could not seem to block. In just 48 seconds Rousey was knocked out for the second straight fight, this time even worse than the first, leaving many asking whether or not Rousey should retire.

I think that Rousey should retire, plain and simple.

She has no more need to fight in her life. She made $3M and more than a combined $7M in her career.

These last two fights have shown the blueprint to winning against her. She’s been knocked out twice by punches, and in her last fight she showed no improvement. It almost looked as if she wanted to lose the fight. There was no blocking from her during the fight. That might show a disinterest or that her head is no longer in the game.

That’s why Rousey should retire: She simply does not have it in her anymore. Although she is a pioneer in her sport and there might not be any women in the UFC without her, her time is done. She is a legend and will likely go down as one of, if not the greatest, fighters in UFC history but her time is up.

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Boys Soccer Excels Despite Disappointing End

The Raiders team lines up for a team photo after a big win. The team’s unity has been a prominent reason for their success this year. Many of the teams’ wins have been dominating shutouts. Photo by Daniel Boston.

By Zachary Letson Staff Writer This year’s Varsity Boys Soccer team had seen incredible success near its homestretch of the season, despite a disappointing finish. One of the main reasons for the good season was their attitude after losses.

“If we drop a game, then we have to determine the reason why and hopefully learn from those mistakes,” said Coach Matias Asorey.

Fortunately, the team had only lost one game during the regular season, so not many changes have needed to be made.

The team had seen its share of blowout 8-goal victories and some nail-biting finishes.

Asorey hoped the season has prepared the team well for the playoffs.

“The key is to be firing on all cylinders by the playoffs, because if we lose in the playoffs, there is no opportunity to correct our mistakes at that point,” said Asorey.

The defensive side of the ball was extremely strong for this team as well. The team had only given up more than one goal once all season, and has recorded shutouts in more than half of their games.

In the team’s only regular sesaon loss, the team lost in penalties in a scoreless game in the Monteverde Tournament. The team finished 5th out of 8 in the tournament recognized as one of the top high school soccer tournaments across the country.

The ending to last year’s season left a bitter taste in the team’s mouth with a heartbreaking home loss to MAST Academy on penalties.

“Last season we had a young team and had the misfortune of dealing with many injuries. [This year], We have a deep team, by that I mean we have at least two players per position that can play at any time. This is very important because if you have a few injuries sometimes it can really impact the season in a negative way,” said Asorey.

The team has played well in the playoffs, especially in their 2-0 win over Edison on Feb. 1st in the quarterfinals,.

However they ended the season with a disappointing loss to La Salle in penalties.

On The Road to the Title vs. St. Brendan Nov. 8 Win 4-0 vs. Pinecrest Prep Nov. 9 Win 8-0 vs. Everglades High School Nov. 14 Win 8-0 vs. Archimeda Nov. 16 Win 5-1 vs. Keys Gate Nov. 29 Tie 1-1 vs. St. Thomas Aquinas Dec. 6 Win 1-0 vs. Wesminister Christian Dec 2 Win 3-0

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SPORTS

vs. American High Dec. 6 Win 3-0 vs. Coral Shores Dec. 9 Win 9-1 vs. Key West Dec. 10 Win 3-1 vs. American Heritage Dec. 14 Tie 1-1 vs. Miami Country Day Jan. 6 Win 5-0 vs. LaSalle Jan . 10 Win 3-0 vs. St Pauls Jan 12 Loss 0-0 (2-3 PK)

vs. Watsonville Jan 13 Win 2-0 vs. Tampa Jesuit Jan 14 Win 4-2 vs. Doral Jan 18 Loss 0-1 District Quarterfinals: vs. Pinecrest Prep Jan 24 Win 8-0 District Semis vs. St. Brendan Jan 25 Win 3-0 Regional Quarters vs. Edison Feb 1 Win 2-0

Spotlight

2017 Silver Knight Nominees

By Abril Beretta Contributing Writer The title of “Silver Knight Nominee” is awarded to seniors who have not only maintained good grades, but have also donated their time to improving their community. It was started by the Miami Herald In 1959, and is open to all students in Miami Dade or Broward County from private or public schools who fit the requirements. They must have a minimum 3.2 unweighted GPA and an impressive amount of service hours. After they accomplish those requirements, teachers may choose to nominate students for different things.

There are 15 categories total: Art, Athletics, Business, Drama, English & Literature, General Scholarship, Journalism, Mathematics, Music and Dance, New Media, Science, Social Science, Speech, Vocational-Technical and World Languages. Our nominees have a unweighted GPAs higher than 3.6 and have five hundred to more than a thousand service hours each.

This year there are ten top caliber nominees: Catie Schwartzman for art, Niles Miller for business, Maxim Salikov for digital interactive media, Alexandro Muñoz for English and Literature, Emily Fakhoury for General Scholarship, Alaz Sengul for Mathematics, Paola Rodriguez for Music and Dance, David Herrera for Science, Alessandra Maggioni for Speech,

and finally Tina Barrios for World languages.

Paola Rodriguez alone accumulated more than five hundred hours by working with Breakthrough Miami and singing to the patients in the Miami Children’s hospital, while at the same time keeping a high GPA and mastering guitar and piano. Even with all this she is doubtful of her chances.

“I’m really happy to be participating in the Silver Knight competition, but the other contestants are really strong so I am not expecting to win. The recognition for my work as a nominee was already a major honor,” said Rodriguez.

Alessandra Maggioni accumulated more than a thousand a hundred hours by being involved with community service in the hospital, using her skills to help her community.

“My passion is helping others, and the way that I help others is through my speaking, and I find that it’s also an art form,” said Maggioni.

Even with this extraordinary amount of hours, she knows she will be competing with other incredibly skilled students in her category. These are students that have dedicated their time and hard work to amass an incredible set of skills; yet they understand that they are facing other unbelievably talented students, and that just being nominated for an award like this is a huge honor.

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What’s Happening in February

1 2

Winter Pep Rally Groundhog Day

8 11

Emily Fakhoury

David Herrera

Alessandra Maggioni

Niles Miller

ACT Testing Day

14 Valentine’s Day 14

HEAL Blood Drive

Work 17 Teacher Day

20 Tina Barrios

AIDS Benefit Dance Show

Spring Recess Begins

Recess 26 Spring Ends

27 Flex Day Alejandro Munoz

Paola Rodriguez

Maxim Salikhov

Catie Schwartzman

Alaz Sengul

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