The Viper Vibe - Volume 15 Issue 4

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THE PROBLEM WITH POLITICAL CORRECTNESS...

Felix Varela Sr. High School * 15255 S.W. 96 St., Miami, FL 33196

Hits and misses

n i t e l l u b d r a o b

The Vipe r Vibe I sponsored ssue 4 by: The Fau bert Fam ily The Vald es Famil y The Delg ado Fam i ly The Ther nelan F a m ily The Varg as Fami l y The Mon ge Famil y The Cost antino F amily The Mal kin Fam ily The Del Fa Fami ly The Cast ro Famil The Pon y ce de Leo n F amily The Leh em The Mau Family ra Fami ly Geneva Motors

Congrats to our Editor in Chief Ciro Salcedo for being given two All Florida awards, and in the runnning for Best of the Best for one of them, at FSPA.

We should follow the parking lot format and put fences around classrooms. That will catch those skippers!

We regret to inform that we mispelled two docents names last issue: Mayra Echemendia and Rodolfo Amaral. As always, we will blame our managing editor. Crisis averted!

Congrats to the Drama Department for their victories in this year’s State Competition.

The real winner of the Oscars was Chris Rock for his handling of race issues in America.

Our condolences go to the victims of the Brussels Airport bombing and Ecuadorean earthquake.

Ta b le of Cont ents View p oints

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ViEWPOINTS

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NEWS

TAKE A JOKE....................................4 VARELA’S NIGHT LIFE.......................6 The Editorial Board feels that the United States has gotten too soft and needs to grow some thicker skin.

Varela students showcased their talents at two evening events, Coffee Night and Jazz Cafe.

DUAL ENROLLMENT’S FUTURE ........5 pc: aN OPEN MINEFIELD................11 AP versus Dual Enrollment is the argument for the ages. We take a look at the uncertain future of DE classes and their place in Varela.

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Lifestyle

How far is the United States willing to go in order to not offend someone?

Where do First Amendment freedoms end and censorship begin?

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sports

#NOCOLORNOAWARDS...................16 Spring Sports.............................20 The Oscar awards this year had more controversy about their lack of minority representation than about the movies themselves. Has PC moved into Hollywood?

With the school year coming to a close, Spring Sports are in full swing from Track to Flag Football to Baseball, we’ve got it all.

Editorial Board EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Cj Salcedo Section Editors Devoun Cetoute Giovanni Del Fa Danielle Malkin Krystal Valdes

Reporters Nicole Castro Laura Chirino-Quinte Sacha Constant Antonella Costantino Taylor Daley Michael Espinoza Alicia Garcia Shannon Guevara Hermes Martinez Kathleen Maura Christine Monge Amy Moscoso-Orella Alexia Ponce De Leon Jahhel Thernelan Kelvin Valdes

Advisor

Elizabeth Cardenas

SINGLES........................................18 Girl Power Meets Sports..........23 Two fairly new artists are showcased this issue: Ruth B is a little lost with “Lost Boy” and Ray Goren is amazing in “Song for Me.”

volume 15 April ‘16

Women are no longer just cheering or even playing sports, they are coaching them. Becky Hammon is making strides in the NBA.

About the cover: Sometimes, it’s better to tell it like it is, rather than be politically correct. The photos on the cover aren’t meant to be offensive or discriminative. Rather, these students embrace who they are despite what others may think. Often, PC is based on outward appearances, but that’s not who we are inside. photos by Devoun Cetoute

Your thoughts may be

in the next Talk to us: thevipervibe@gmail.com featured issue of the Viper Vibe!

Editorial Policy The Viper Vibe is the student newspaper of Felix Varela Senior High (15255 SW 96 St. Miami, FL, 33196).

It is an open forum for student expression. The opinions expressed in the publication do not reflect the official opinions or policies of the school. The Viper Vibe welcomes letters to the editor, but requires that they be signed and reserves the right to reject, edit and condense letters. The staff and advisor can be contacted at 305-752-7900 or thevipervibe@gmail.com

Ads The Viper Vibe solicits advertising but reserves the right to reject any material deemed obscene as to minors, defamatory or materially and substantially disruptive of school activities.

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Viewpoi nt s

F rom t h e E ditors

the editor says: Take a Joke

There’s nothing wrong with clean fun.

Take my current situation for example. I’m sitting at my desk watching Steven Universe, this fantasy show on Cartoon Network that is clearly meant for children.

Yes, fans of the show might screech at that last statement.

The show is a lot more complex than people might think.

It’s a complex coming-of-age story, filled with anime and sci-fi references that’s built around the ideas of non-traditional families.

Despite its complexity, it retains this innocence not found in children’s programming. It’s a fun adventure that manages to put a smile on my face and makes me forget about my crippling cynicism.

So what does this children’s show have to do with anything? (Pretty weird analogies these past two issues, huh?)

There’s a difference between innocence and just plain annoying.

Political correctness is a term thrown around a lot these days. It is either used as a way to discourage jokes or to shame people who do not know which pronouns to use.

Though well-intentioned, it has become a mission to achieve tranquility. It feels like walking on a mine field, one that can be triggered easily.

It’s a serious issue, one that’s slowly tearing the fabric of the country.

One that can be solved if people can take a joke.

I’m not saying we need to make crude comments or constant vulgar remarks, but we should learn to take things lightly.

I know I’m going to get a lot of backlash from people online. I know social justice warriors are probably sharpening their PC swords, but I’m telling the truth.

Why should the Tumblr generation determine who gets nominated for an Oscar or if an episode of The Dukes of Hazzard is appropriate?

Let’s bring back our sense of humor, it’s the only thing that keeps any of us sane.

Ciro Salcedo, Editor-In-Chief The Viper Vibe #ItsJustAJokeBro

We STOP BEING SO “POLITICALlY CORRECT” Say:

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We at the Viper Vibe feel that this country is at war with a Look, we realize it is extremely difficult to make everyone new breed of enemy. happy in a world where there are a lot of terrible things hap It no longer involves nuclear weapons, environmental pening to people. There is a lot of sadness and darkness, we get threats or any involvement from neighboring nations. it.

This enemy lies within our own country and thanks to the in- But maybe that’s enough of a reason to let loose. Maybe ternet; there is more of a chance for the American people to be that’s enough of a reason to reevaluate what we say. affected by said enemy.

If the entire world is already sad enough, why take away hu To spare the readers from any more frusmor? Why take away something that makes us, tration and worry, we are obviously referring to It’s About time we made well, us? people who try to cleanse the country of anyPeople react to things differently. Some cry this world embrace hu- and thing deemed “offensive.” grieve while other yell and shout. mor in all forms. not Some people look to humor.

In other words, people who want political correctness.

Humor. just the nice ones.

You know, people who feel like every child Jokes also come in different ways, some innodeserves a participation medal, or that an actor cent and some a little more risqué. The risqué should be awarded for being black? ones tend to escalate into offensive territory, and that’s okay.

Before social justice warriors attack the magazine, we don’t ad- It’s about time we made this world embrace humor in all vocate hate speech or threats. We don’t want the world to go forms. Not just the nice ones, because after all, laughter is the lowbrow. best medicine.

That’s just wrong.

In our times of trouble, look to others with open eyes and

But it would be nice to hear a comedian make a joke with- an open heart. And an open sense of humor. out being lynched from the masses of people online who feel Because what offends one person might be the best coping offended. method for someone else, and that’s something, we as editors,

Is that too much to ask for? can get on board with.

t h ev i per vi b e @ g mai l . com

Colum ns

View p oints

Dual Enrollment FATE NOW IN LIMBO 2000, when to take a massive final test, does not “We are offering an AP and a DE of

By Devoun Cetoute Since Felix Varela Se- mean that it is not as rigorous. the same subject, which then creates a Section Editor

nior High School “I find more value for students who conflict,” Barnett said. opened its doors challenge themselves and recommend But with this new “plan” DE would to the community, Dual Enrollment (DE) AP for various reasons. For seniors they now be competing with AP courses like was one of the first academic electives take the easier route and not challenge AP Art. to be offered here alongside Advanced themselves. And this is the reason I sup- I do not understand why DE English Placement (AP). port AP is because it is challenging,” As- 3 was immediately taken down instead of

The growth of Felix Varela’s AP pro- sistant Principal for Curriculum Wendy its counterpart AP English Language and gram, with a curriculum offering of over Barnett said.

AP English Literature.

20 courses, has subsequently led to the However, I disagree. As an English Students taking DE English 3 satisfy death of DE. and Social Studies DE student, I find it both ENC 1101 and 1102 within the same

I believe that DE has lost its academ- more rigorous to take chapter tests and school year, whereas AP Language and ic status because of the lack of support write three essays each semester than AP Literature are taken over two years, from faculty. They effectively pulled the just take one all-inclusive test. and students must score a 3 or higher on plug on DE, leaving just enough life sup- “We must follow the Gordon Rule. the exam in order to qualify for college port to tout the program at the state and Gordon Rule states that the students credit. district level. must write three essays that come out According to thefederalist.com, “Not

But it will not “go gento 10,000 words, which even a majority of AP test takers pass the tle into that good night,” I find more value for means that at the end of exam, and even fewer score high enough it will “rage, rage against high school course for their results to transfer to their colstudents who chal- the the dying of the light.” students would have lege of choice as actual college credit— lenge themselves and completed six essays to- and some colleges do not accept AP cred DE and AP are two programs that allow recommend AP for vari- taling to 20,000 words,” it at all.” high school students to Mr. Daniel Reyes, DE U.S. One very motivating reason for keepous reasons. achieve college credit and History teacher said. ing AP is the money. According to Fins, - Ms. Barnett “[Dual Enrollment does DE costs Varela $2,500 per class. Howexperience. While in purpose they are the same, give a real college experi- ever, the Education Commission of the in reality they are far different from each ence] because of the pacing of the work. States (ecs.force.com) shows that Floriother.

It’s rigorous because you actually have to da “subsidizes AP test fees regardless of The way students achieve college apply college research to essays and as- whether student achieves passing score credit through AP is by passing the Col- signments that are assigned at the same on the exam.” lege Board AP Exam at the end of the level at the University,” D’Amato said.

And for every student that passes year. This requires teachers to “teach to As a freshman, I sat for AP World the AP Exam, Varela and the AP teachers a test,” which is a technique opposed by History, one of the most receive stipends (2015most American teachers and which is rigorous courses; while [Dual Enrollment does 2016 ALSDE/A+ College strongly fought against by organizations AP provided the college School give a real college ex- Ready/Program like the Association of Supervision and credits, DE has given me Funding Plan). perience] because of We live in a country Curriculum Development (www.ascd. professors who teach out the pacing of the work. where the public has a say org). of passion, a feeling that is I understand that while teachers felt firsthand.

- MR. D’Amato in things that will affect may be only teaching for the AP test at In the 2016-17 school them. Here at Varela, we the end of the year, they are still building year, DE English 3, which must have lost this right, a sufficient knowledge base of the whole gave credit for ENC 1101 and ENC 1102 because DE teachers and students were subject. (beginning English college classes), will put in the dark when these “plans” were

“[Taking a test at the end of the year] be officially taken off the course sheet. being prepared. Instead, it was brought is not a real college experience. In college In its absence, the administration will be up at a Curriculum Council meeting, five you fulfill the assignment. Every profes- putting in elective DE classes like DE Art. of whose members teach AP courses. sor has a different standard. If they want “We have been very lucky. We have With a decision this big, it might have you to write a paper at the end of the se- teachers in our elective program that been a good idea to get opinions from the mester, than that is what your grade is qualify to teach DE,” Principal Nery Fins actual people who are being affected. based upon,” Mr. Robert D’Amato, DE En- said. “So kids can now take Art, Speech, The purpose of DE and AP is to give glish teacher, said. and stuff like that which would be better high school students as much college ex The way students achieve college for them.” perience and credit as possible in school. credit through DE is by taking the college The reason for this is because admin- Why our school is keeping two AP courscourse itself while still enrolled here at istration believes that DE enrollment was es that are achieving the same thing as Varela, through cumulative coursework, competing with AP and that two identical one DE course is a mystery to me, but readings, and examinations. subjects should not compete against each I’m certain that green dollar signs have

Just because a student does not have other. something to do with it.

DEVOUN24@GMAIL.COM

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New s A ro u n d V arel a

Between the preparation and performance, many factors go into Coffee Night; a night full of music, talent, and of course, coffee.

For just five dollars, Varela students can experience music and poetry in a cafeteria-turned coffee house.

Performers arrived early to practice, while drama students readied the stage with a full band, light fixtures, and their own sound system.

“We had around 25 students helping, not counting performers,” drama teacher Reynaldo Bode said.

A performance by junior Daniella Perez, who covered “Let it Be” by The Beatles, surprising her boyfriend with his favorite song, was described as an unforgettable experience.

“The experience was so amazing, I finally felt confident enough to sing in front of a crowd and it was a really special moment I was able to share with a special someone,” she said.

Junior Abigail Teme, another performer, sang “Hold My Heart” by Sara Bareilles.

“I had a lot of fun and I’m sure I’m going to do it again next year,” Teme said.

Despite being nervous on stage, she felt right at home performing.

“I’m very shy about my voice so I was definitely nervous but all of my nerves were gone as soon as I stepped on stage,” she said.

Proceeds from the night go to a worthy cause.

“The money made at Coffee Night really helps the thespians,” Perez said.

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Ramirez, Julio Guardado, Richard Suarez, Alejandro Abad and Kristine Adriazola ç William performed “Drown” by Bring Me the Horizon and “Float On” by Modest Mouse at Coffee Night. photo by Fox-Mar

Senior Carlos Penagos sings with the Jazz Band at their Jazz Cafe night. photo courtesy of Jazz Band.

Posada (Sunset High School senior) and junior Danna Patania perform “My Heart” ç Jose

by Paramore at Coffee Night. photo by Fox-Mar Varela’s award-winning Jazz Band entertained guests at the Jazz Cafe in February.

They performed classics such as “The Lady is a Tramp,” “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” and “S’Wonderful.” photo courtesy of Jazz Band

By Krystal Valdes Section Editor IG: Krystalvaldes

ç

Coffee Night

Make some noise

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News

Jazz Cafe

While a night of music for teenagers usually involves HipHop or Rap, Varela’s Jazz Band brought back some oldies but goodies to entertain the crowds in the cafeteria for Jazz Café.

Jazz Café brought a set list of songs including “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra, “It Had to Be You” by Harry Connick, Jr., and many more gems from the genre’s diverse history.

“A month went into preparation along with rehearsals every A day. It features, exclusively, the jazz band and selective vocalists,” band director, Dr. Sam Lussier said.

Senior and Thespian Vice President, Liliana Fonte, performed “L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole.

“I really enjoyed the feeling of singing with a live band, not just a track or a guitar, but a loud, full blown orchestra that really put that extra awesomeness into my performance,” she said.

Abigail Teme, a junior with a background in acting, performed “At Last” by Etta James.

“Jazz Café is very different from Coffee Night; performers have to sing with a Jazz Band instead of karaoke, and that’s a little harder too,” she said.

The Jazz band even gave into a request from Principal Nery Fins and played a little Spanish music with “Latin Fantasy” by Dave Wolpe.

“I like playing Jazz,” said senior tenor saxophone player Carlos Penagos. “There’s something more involved in the creation of Jazz. There’s more involved in being a musician.

I can be more musical playing Jazz. It opens it up for me.”

Aro u n d Varela N ew s

The beginning of the end

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By Yasmin Arancibia and Taylor Daley Staff Reporters IG: _curls__ IG: captainjamaica24

1. Erick Känd, a hypnotist, who has provided the Senior Luncheon entertainment for several years, chose students from the audience to participate in his show. They were asked to respond to prompts that elicited tons of laughter such as reacting to their chair as if it were an animal, act as if they had powers, and act as if they were driving. While many of the students did feel as if they were being influenced in some way, others readily admitted that they were faking the hypnosis.

“In the beginning I was [faking it].

Some things, but not everything. After a while I stopped forcing myself and didn’t realize what I was doing. I remember mostly the beginning and I think where they told us to act as if we were in a car,” Abel Taveras said.

2. Jonathan Aburto dances at Senior Luncheon. Hypnotized students were brought up on stage and asked to create a new dance move.

“I knew what I was doing sometimes, but as I saw that the crowd was enjoying it and lasting I didn’t choose to stop. I kept going. I enjoyed myself,” he said.

3. Students at the Senior Luncheon were treated to a buffet style lunch which included chicken, salad, fruit, rice and a separate dessert table with all the ingredients to build sundaes.

“It was really good. And even if you were vegan or vegetarian, you would have enjoyed it. And there was plenty to fill you up,” Elgar William said.

4. Approximately 255 seniors gathered in the cafeteria for Senior Movie Night. Pajamas, airbeds, blankets and sleeping bags turned the cafeteria into one big sleep over. The event was free and included popcorn, hot dogs, sno cones and drinks. Seniors voted to watch The Martian starring Matt Damon.

“I would have preferred Inside Out, but in the end of the movie, everyone got into the movie. I went to hang out with my friends really. It was a cute sleep over,” Yiifedji Final said.

5. While it’s called Senior Movie Night, most kids attend just to hang out in a casual setting and begin to say goodbye to their final year of high school.

“I went to be with my friends and experience what it was like to be a senior,” Sara DelaRosa said.

“I sat in front. It was somewhat comfortable. I had a spot on the bed but it was too full so I laid on one of my friends for the entirety of the movie,” Daisy Melendez said.

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New s A ro u n d V arel a

Inside the Staff Lounge What’s the best part about being a counselor?

Getting to see all of it.

The good and the bad of the kids. I’m there for any situation.

What is your least favorite word?

Can’t Ms. Michelle Plasencia

Ms. Plasencia has been a counselor for two years.

She began her career as an honors and AP English teacher. She works in room 11 with students whose last names start with I-PI.

What sound or noise do you love?

Windchimes on a porch 8 t h ev i per vi b e @ g mai l . com

I love figuring things out.

They relax me. I grew up with many puzzles.

“We’ve been waiting for you.”

Serendipity What inspires you?

Kindness

Medicine

What’s your fascination with puzzles?

If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?

What is your favorite word?

What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?

What profession other than yours would you not like to participate in?

Housekeeper

What’s the weirdest excuse you have ever heard from a student as to why they are failing?

What sound or noise do you hate?

“All my friends are in that class.”

People fighting

These questions are based on the French television series Bouillon de Culture hosted by Bernard Pivot.

Information gathered by Julian Vargas photo by Alicia Garcia

Aro u n d Varela N ew s

Viper Central closers cause confusion

By Nicole Castro A library’s

removing her as the media specialist. staff reporter function

Recently, the administraIG: nicolee53_ is to be tion has assigned one of the open to provide students with main office secretaries Ms. access to books for education Gloria Pando (who used to be and entertainment, comthe library assistant) to open puters if one is unavailable the library on A days. to them, and a printer for

For the student body, endless pages of homework. this decision has been a new

But Varela’s Viper Central obstacle this school year. is not that type of library.

“I don’t have Wi-Fi right

Media Specialist Ms. now, so I wasn’t able to print Agnes Pagan was given three my project. It would be helpEnglish classes to teach on B ful if it was open for some days which caused the library people who don’t have comto be closed to students on puters in general. My parents those days. are busy and I can’t ask them,”

Then, English teacher senior Valentina Lotero said.

Ms. Christine Smith left to

Last year the administrabecome an assistant principal tion spent all of the summer at another school and the and part of the school year school’s solution was to give remodeling the library into a her classes to other teachers. media center. Varela even had Pagan was given an extra two a naming contest for the new classes on A days effectively and improved space.

Viper Central got updated computers, charging stations, new furniture and flat screen televisions. There are even separate areas with Promethean Boards so that teachers could actually use the space for instruction.

According to Principal Nery Fins, the cost for renovations was about $11,000.

“Use the thing we spent so much money on. Why name it Viper Central when we are not even there,” junior Sofia Delico said.

Some students are left to wonder if not having a fully functional media center is affecting students in the realm of academia.

“The library was more useful my freshman year because it was always open and I was able to go do my homework on either A or

B days. Now I’m struggling because it’s not open on B days and sometimes it’s not even open on A days,” junior Lauren Garmendia said.

According to Donna Baumbach, author of Making the Grade: The Status of School Library Media Centers in the Sunshine State and How They Contribute to Student Achievement, “In high schools where library media programs are staffed 60 hours per week or more, there is a 22.2 percent improvement in test scores over those staffed less than 60 hours.”

Fins said that next year’s library status is unknown because of understaffing.

This is a trend that is affecting many high schools in Dade County with library/ media centers being turned into testing rooms.

Teachers vote on new schedule for 2016-17 year a long

By Devoun Cetoute debate,Inspanning

Section Editor over two months, dEVOUN24@GMAIL.COM teachers at Varela voted in February on whether or not the school would move to an eight period schedule next year. Although this seems like a minimal issue, it has caused waves in teacher circles and created tension among colleagues.

With the eight-period schedule, students would take eight courses a year in a 4x4 schedule similar to this year’s 3x3 schedule.

Teachers would teach a minimum of six classes (currently it is five). Supplements are given to teachers who forfeit the sixth period (this would apply to the seventh or eighth period on the 4x4).

With the extra classes, Varela would need to expand their course offerings list. Miami-Dade County Public Schools would have supplied the school with $1 million to fund the eight-period class load and teacher supplements.

Administration hoped that a new schedule would lead to higher enrollment, which at 2,885 students is 300 less than last year. Next year’s numbers are expected to be even lower.

Teachers took this vote very seriously, sending several teachers to other

schools like Coral Gables, South Dade and Ferguson that already have the eight-period schedule to discuss the pros and cons with their faculty. The information gathered was shared with Varela’s teachers at a faculty meeting in January.

A main talking point was the benefit to elective teachers.

“I think there are a lot of students who need extracurricular activities to want to be in school. [Some] students generally need to take the Intensive Reading and Math classes which means they have no electives,” Reading teacher Robin Lesher said.

But not all teachers believe that the extra classes would improve the electives.

“If you do not do well enough on math and Reading FSAs, then you have to take Remedial Reading and Math. So what would scare me is that they would be saddled with two more academic classes instead of these bonus electives,” English teacher Alexa Acosta said.

One of the selling points of the new schedule was the possibility of a second teacher supplement. But some teachers aren’t so sure that these supplements would come.

“Even the teachers teaching now

don’t always get supplements when we want one. If we don’t have supplements now, how are we going to get them?”

Acosta said.

On the other hand, some teachers believed that pay shouldn’t even be a factor in the decision between yes or no.

“For me it is about the kids. Teachers don’t make a lot of money and if we are here for our financial reasons then we probably shouldn’t be teachers,” Lesher said.

Another big deal with the possibility of eight periods was the work load that would be connected to it. For some it was just not worth it.

“For other classes this is not a big deal, but for English classes that is an additional 25 essays for nine weeks,” Acosta said.

Some teachers believed that the change in workload would just be part of the job description.

“I understand some teachers would have more work, but a lot of us would have more work, too,” Lesher said.

The result? Teachers voted in favor of the new schedule. However, it failed to meet the 66% requirement to pass.

As Varela’s numbers continue to fall, teachers may have another vote in the near future.

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New s A ro u n d t h e W or l d

The newsroom gets multicultural

By Danielle Malkin

Jason Begay’s a new series of U.S. Federal Commufaced by minority members of the second entry into nications Commissions (FCC) ruling broadcast journalism industry, both Managing Editor the world of jourthat required stations to increase their behind and in front of the camera.

IG: _cANDIDANI nalism was met with minority and female employee numbers. Dedrick Russell, the vice president and many firsts: an intern at the Duluth News “Stations had to be 50 percent broadcast representative of the National Tribune, it was his first time leaving the parody with the minority and woman Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), reservation, his first time writing for workforce with whatever community said he believes it falls back to unequal mainstream media and his first time they were in,” Papper said. “In the 1970s, distribution of coverage. Russell said entering a world that wasn’t 98 percent you had a limited numthat among news direcThe way The Miami Her- tors and management, Navajo. Begay said it was shocking. ber of professions that

“I was like ‘it’s so white’...That’s were open to minorities. ald covers Latin Amer- it is believed that “only when I saw the need for diversity,” Begay All of a sudden, you had ica and the Caribbean minority journalists can said. a desirable profession, minority issues... is as if it were local… cover

Begay, president of the Native Amer- so stations had a lot of We get stuck with hate that’s a model for na- crimes.” ican Journalist Association (NAJA), says hires.” that Native American news coverage was The staple of an tional organizations. “Every time a minority “uncomfortably stereotypical.” Stories “anchorman” was deep comes up, they have - Niala Boodhoo issue cover the topics of alcoholism and diarooted in American to cover it and everyone betes and news outlets give viewers a culture, where newsrooms, as Papper looks to them on how to address it. It’s bleak view of reservation life. recalls, had an average of one female not comfortable being the diversity con Begay’s views come at a time when reporter and no employees of color. The science of the newsroom,” Papper said. researchers are seeing an increase of faces of Chet Huntley, Tom Brokaw, Brian Niala Boodhoo, vice president of minorities in broadcast journalism. The Williams and Walter Cronkite would the Asian American Journalist Associlatest Radio Television Digital News illuminate the houses of families for ation (AAJA), said that a large problem Association (RTDNA) survey shows the generations to come. broadcast news sources face is how to minority workforce in television news

“A smart manager realizes they have handle minority issues, which may vary has reached its third highest level; 22.2 to look like the audience to get what by location. During Boodhoo’s time at percent. The number has gradually they want. In most of the country, you The Miami Herald, Hispanic and other increased since 1995, when minorities have a diverse audience,” Papper said. “If minority issues were commonplace. made up 17.1 percent of the television you have a bunch of white guys sitting at “The way The Miami Herald covers newsroom. On the other hand, the the anchor desk, you’re not going to win. Latin America and the Caribbean is as if minority population within the United And in television, that matters.” it were local…that’s a model for national States has increased 11.5 points in the

Changes would eventually come, organizations,” Boodhoo said. Boodhoo, last 25 years, but the minority workforce some immediately following the FCC despite growing up in a region that was in broadcast journalism has increased rulings and others nearly 40 years later. “very comfortable with global connecless than half that (4.4 In 1962, Malvin Russell tions,” said that the management level of the minority workforce Goode would become the broadcast and print newsrooms doesn’t points).

Mekahlo Medina, in television news has first black network news reflect the masses. president of the Nation As the world of broadcast journalreached its third high- correspondent for ABC al Association for Hisnews. In 1974, Carole ism reaches a point where it feeds into est level; 22.2 percent. Simpson would be the first a mass minority population, directors of panic Journalists (NAHJ) - RTDNA survey black woman to anchor and reporter for NBC4 organizations such as NAJA, NAHJ, NABJ in Southern California, a major television netand AAHA, say they are working to train said that the management level lacks the work evening newscast. Finally in 1978, young, minority people into journalists diversity of the viewing population. An Max Robinson would become the first and journalism leaders.

RTDNA staff survey shows that 87.5 per- African-American broadcast network

As the minority population begins cent of news directors were Caucasian; news anchor, hosting “ABC News World to increase and choose to pursue a Hispanics came in second, making up 6.0 Tonight.” career in journalism, Medina says news percent of news directors, followed by

Hispanics would soon make their and journalism organizations need to African Americans, Asian Americans and way into the market. Elizabeth Vargas of be bolder in building the newsroom of Native Americans, who were 4.3, 1.8 and ABC would be the first Hispanic woman today.

0.4 percent, respectively. to anchor a network evening newscast

Professor Papper says many of the

“The consumers look and sound eth- in the U.S. since Connie Chung, when she problems are hard to explain other than nic, but the people producing are not,” began hosting “20/20” in 2004. Antonio through some measure of discriminaMedina said.

Mora, born in Havana, Cuba, became the tion. But stigmas and bias aside, the

Professor Robert Papper, who has first Hispanic American male to anchor a world of broadcast journalism is thriving conducted the RTDNA survey for the last primetime newscast in Chicago and one for all.

20 years, says the increase has met its of the only Hispanic American males to

“If you’re interested in the field, stable point, after a surge of minority anchor a national broadcast news show. and you want to pursue it and you work employment in the 1970s and 1980s.

Despite the increases of minority really hard… you can succeed in this and Papper said the surge was caused by employment, there are still stigmas it doesn’t matter what color.”

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Aro u n d th e W or ld

N ew s

STORY BY: DANIELLE MALKIN MANAGING EDITOR IG: _CANDIDANI

... IS QUICK LABELING AND AN INABILITY TO TAKE A JOKE.

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New s A ro u n d t h e C o u ntry

Welcome to the United Stat P

Where does the First Amendmen

olitical Correctness, and the occasional lack thereof, has rocked this growing nation, as the line between proper definition and insult has grown thin between the mudslinging.

The Oxford Dictionary defines political correctness as “the avoidance, often considered as taken to extremes, of forms of expression or action that are perceived to exclude, marginalize, or insult groups of people who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against.”

However, The Miami Herald Managing Editor Rick Hirsch calls it the ability to insult others without consequence.

“It’s wrong to call people names and make fun of them,” Hirsch said. “But, people are entitled to their opinions.”

The idea of political correctness was originated by leftists and liberals at American universities in order to “prevent recognition of differences” for those with differences in gender, sexuality, religion, belief system and nationality.

One of the first major journalistic reflections on political correctness came from Richard Bernstein of The New York Times, who said the term “politically correct” was spoken with more irony than respect.

Bernstein continues to argue about the presence of politically correct institutions in society: affirmative action; women’s studies; gay studies; African-American studies.

Raisa Garneff, U.S Government and Economics Teacher at Felix Varela Senior High, believes political correctness is being careful in what you say, how you say it, and when you say it.

In fact, Garneff also does not see

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self-censorship as a prevalent problem in society.

“It’s [political correctness] is saying the proper things at proper times and making sure that you’re not being offensive to anyone,” Garneff said. “Very few of us self-censor… all you have to do is walk down any hall and hear all kinds of bombs. People call each other vile names.”

Garneff’s view opposes that of conservative author Roger Kimball, who in 1990 told The New York Times’ Bernstein that political correctness and self-censorship was a “narrow” attempt to create educated and responsible citizens.

“It’s a manifestation of what some are calling liberal fascism,” Kimball told the Times.

In his trend piece, Bernstein says the terminology itself has grown to be a proverbial punchline in an attempt to conform to the trio of society’s thought crimes: sexism, racism, and homophobia. Subjects like affirmative action and homosexuality have been struck from civil debate and further force the public to accept the politically correct view.

“Political Correctness is something other than civil rights,” Adam Goldstein, Advocate Attorney for the Student Press Law Center, said. “The idea of P.C is refraining from exercising rights to offend people.”

Goldstein’s view sides with that of the law. The 1st Amendment of the U.S Constitution does guarantee that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech…,” legally allowing citizens to say what they please and to whom they choose to offend.

However, citizens are only guaranteed protection from the government, not fellow citizens.

The first case of that is in the 2016 Presidential Election.

Incumbent Donald Trump has thrown political correctness to the curb, along with the 13 drop outs from the race.

The law protects Trump and his ability to call Mexicans “racists,” Obamacare a “lie” and the United States a “dumping ground.” Unafraid of the repercussions, Trump, to date, has insulted 210 people, places, and things on Twitter, reported by The New York Times.

His style, according to both Goldstein and Garneff, is seen as genuine and appealing to those who are “sick of outrage culture.”

“They think that when people talk like that, that they’re being genuine, “Garneff said. “In America, a lot of people equate his mode of speaking to what is called today ‘real’.”

Casey Klofstad is an associate professor of political science at the University of Miami, with research on biology and societal influence on human decision making. Klofstad’s research supports the idea that society’s inability to make different decisions stems from the environment they create for themselves.

“We only talk about politics with people we already agree with,” Klofstad said. A majority of our influences come from family and friends, leading decisions to be swayed by those around us.

Therefore, our own self-censorship may not even be our own.

“Political correctness is good and moderation…too much does the exact opposite,” Klofstad said.

Many kids face early encounters with being politically correct. Sophomore Laura Prince describes it as trying not to offend people; what seemed like a simple joke was anything less than amusing.

“When I was thinking it was a funny joke, but I guess it wasn’t,” Prince said.

Prince knows the difference between right and wrong, but political correctness creates a line that few are willing to cross.

“We say what we don’t mean,” Prince said. “It makes sense not to offend your demographic.”

Straying away from primary populations and into Wall Street is the latest P.C change to the world of toys: In March of 2016, Mattel announced it would re-

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks to supporters at a rally at Fountain Park in Fountain Hills, Ariz., on Saturday, March 19, 2016. Arizona holds its presidential primary on Tuesday. photo with permission Los Angeles Times/TNS

Aro u n d t h e Co u ntr y

N ew s

tes of Political Correctness

nt fit in a world of self-censorship? lease a new line of diverse Barbie dolls, coming in four body types and seven skin tones, with 22 eye colors and 24 hairstyles.

Garneff, a grandmother to two young girls, believes that Mattel is attempting to appeal to the masses and the main motive behind the “most dramatic” change in Barbie history is dollar signs.

“Not every little girl weighs two pounds, has a double D, and is a runway model,” Garneff said. “But I think they’re trying to make money. I really don’t think Mattel cares about ethnic anything.”

However, a doll with darker hair or a curvier body cannot count for Mattel reaching its “ethnic” consumers. Director of consumer insights for Barbie, Tania Missad, said in an online video, that the doll promoted success for young girls, regardless of color and creed.

“It acts like the only thing that connects people to a culture is an exterior,” Goldstein said.

The lawyer disagrees with the latest action from the toy company and believes that appearance does not equate cultural and demographic satisfaction.

“If you need a toy to teach your children there are other people on earth, that’s a fault on the parents,” Prince said.

In October of 2015, Mattel reported that worldwide Barbie sales fell 4 percent in the third quarter of 2015 and the company’s stock price was down nearly 43 percent from its 2013 peak.

It’s unclear to see where Mattel draws the line between culture change and dollars and sense, but it won’t be the first time the company catches criticism for ethnic changes.

The first was in 1997, following a collaboration with cookie maker Nabisco, for the creation of Oreo Fun Barbie.

The black version of the doll, carrying an Oreo shaped purse, was criticized because of the use of the word “Oreo” as a derogative term in the black community.

“Political Correctness is openness to diversity,” Klofstad argues. Many of the words and phrases used today are quickly labeled as “racist” or “not funny” and even “inappropriate.” The taboos of sex, race, crime, and religion will exist

photo with permission Los Angeles Times/ TNS Source: Mattel

as long as we treat them as foreign. Until we learn how to properly offend people, Americans will always toe the line of being politically correct.

Other options?

Goldstein says get used to it, or move.

“If you don’t like living in a country with the First Amendment, Canada is right to the North.”

The English language is filled with words that toe the line of politically correct. In fact, a single word may start a fire that requires several phrases to douse the flames. We asked some professionals about words that have begun to set society ablaze.

Thug

Rick Hirsch - “It’s a politically charged word.”

Raisa Garneff - “That’s an okay word... it’s better than calling someone a criminal.”

Casey Klofstad - “If it’s in a context of the African-American community, it’s seen as offensive. Words can be contextualized by different individuals.”

Adam Goldstein - “Depends on the context.”

Islamic terrorist

R. H. - “They are a terrorist from whatever country until proven otherwise.”

R. G. - “Terrorists are people. Not all terrorists are Islamic.”

C. K. - “If a terrorist is Islamic, then it’s factually accurate.”

A.G. - “If Caitlyn Jenner can announce she’s a woman, then a terrorist can announce they are Muslim.”

“All Lives Matter”

R. H. - “It doesn’t exclude the value of Black lives.”

R. G. - “All lives do matter! My dogs’ lives matter, my birds’ and my neighbors’ and my students’ and mine and my family... all lives do matter.”

C. K. - “That term comes from the White community. It’s backlash against ‘Black Lives Matter.’ Different things to different people given the context.”

Happy Holidays

R. H. - “We are a nation of many different people. It’s a diversity thing.”

R. G. - “There’s nothing wrong with that.”

C. K. - “It’s PC in the sense that it is inclusive. I don’t have a problem with it.”

A.G. - “The holidays don’t fall on the same day.” It’s like telling people to have a happy week. But you really want to say Happy Thursday, but don’t want to offend the people who like Wednesdays.

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L if est y le

P l ay s

lifestyle MACBETH ambition is

By Ciro Salcedo Overthe downfall of any

Sage Soto, Victoria St. Louis, and Kiara Camacho as the three witches in the drama department’s version of MacBeth. photo by Fox-Mar

It isn’t solely her fault: She did an adequate job of delivering lines and did so Editor-in-chief great production. with ease. Unfortunately, it was not the @ cj_fett_salcedo This is comparable right role for her. to the great Scottish king, Macbeth, or

The “blind casting,” as the playbill more relevant, Varela’s production of states, was an attempt to challenge genWilliam Shakespeare’s Macbeth. der roles in society. Again, that’s fine. I’m

I can appreciate when a high school not a purist and I’m open to change, but tackles a tough play. Really, anything maybe something as black-and-white as Shakespeare is something to admire.

Macbeth was not the right play to tackle.

Unfortunately, it didn’t really go as well Hamlet could have worked much better as they might have hoped. with the swapping in my opinion.

The acting from most of the cast was Throughout most of the promotion superb, with props to Isabella Gianquin- and Q&A sessions, all of the focus was on to as Lady Macbeth. She channels energy this female lead. Attention for no reason.

I haven’t seen since Francesca Annis in

Obviously she was playing a male Roman Polanksi’s 1971 adaptation of Macbeth, considering the use of “he” the play. Each delivery of each famous when they referred to the Scottish king. line and monologue is something to At no point did the actor’s gender faze behold and is the making of a future star. me. That is until an enlightening Q&A

The same cannot be said for the session with cast and crew members. rest of the cast, particularly Macbeth

From my understanding, they cast a himself…or herself? Played by Heylicken female to play the lead to challenge any Hueck, this production of Macbeth propredisposed gender norms. According posed to “change things up” by casting a to the playbill, “In order to be accepted female as the lead. you’ll find that women will and must

That’s fine. Or it would’ve been if take on the characteristics of a man. Our there was any logic behind this casting. blind casting of this show suggests that

Heylicken Hueck as MacBeth. photo by Fox-Mar

Leonardo Urbina (Malcolm), Ashley Figueroa (MacDuff) and Nicholas Menendez (Ross). photo by Fox-Mar

maybe it is time society puts on their own blinds, and allows for anyone to take on the role of a leader.”

That’s where the confusion set in.

If the actress is playing a male Macbeth, then why make it such a big deal? Does that mean the females playing characters like Macduff are also challenging gender roles? If Lady Macbeth was already the strongest character in the original text, why diminish her value here and try to make a “female” Macbeth stronger?

She already orchestrates most of the chaos in the story, why try and take that away?

That was my takeaway from the entire production. It was an ill-planned attempt to try and “say something” which ended up being confusing.

It’s a ridiculous change.

The whole time I felt like I was watching something spontaneously hilarious unraveling. Like the making of a future cult classic that will go down in Varela’s history.

It was the most beautiful mess I’ve ever seen.

Isabella Gianquinto as Lady MacBeth. photo by Fox-Mar

Movies

L if estyle

Twentieth Century Fox

DIRECTED BY Tim Miller RATING R

LENGTH 1 hrs., 48 min.

“This is what awesome looks like.”

Deadpool is the super hero movie fans have been waiting for.

This film is one for the record books, literally. It is the highest grossing Rated R superhero movie of all time, and no, it isn’t rated R because of the action but mostly because of some rather inappropriate scenes we really aren’t used to seeing in the standard superhero flick.

Deadpool is portrayed by Ryan Reynolds and co-stars Morena Baccarin as Vanessa his love interest, T.J. Miller as Weasel, Brianna Hildebrand as Negasonic Teenage Warhead (I know.. awesome.), and Stefan Kapicic as a complete CGI version of the X-Man Colossus. All of these actors bring an amazing per-

formance to their characters and makes this long time anticipated movie worth watching.

Visually, the movie is amazing. It’s important to keep in mind this movie only had a budget of about $58 million.

Compared to most super hero movies (Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice had a budget of $250 million), that is one very small budget for a long anticipated superhero movie. The low production costs do not affect the quality and can easily compete with other great superhero tales.

The action is amazing and has brilliant choreography, nothing compared to the fighting of Captain America or Daredevil, but it is pleasing to watch and it feels real. Thankfully, the lack of money certainly doesn’t make this movie look cheap. The action is fast-paced and interesting and the story flows beautifully and doesn’t feel too long or too short.

One thing that is for sure, this movie

Top 5 School-Appropriate Deadpool Quotes

Note from the editors: Hi. I’m pisina de la muerte. (Get it? Deadpool! In Spanish!) After the massive success of my biographical epic, Deadpool, I’ve been reaching out to schools as a way to teach how much fun it is to wait ten years for a movie (nice one Fox). Unfortunately, cursing is a touchy subject and my film sounds like Quentin Tarantino’s little black book of really naughty words.

So, because of a certain editor (his name rhymes with Diro), I’ve been reduced to keeping my language at a kid-friendly level. That way no parents will call the school on an issue that obviously doesn’t matter. Wait, what’s this list for again?

- ’Pool 1. Me: I’m gonna do to your face what 4. Me: Happy lent.

Limp Bizkit did to music in the late 5. Me: Listen Al, if I never see you 90s! again, I want you to know that I love 2. Me: A fourth wall break inside a you very much. I also buried 1,600 fourth wall break? That’s like, sixkilos of cocaine somewhere in the teen walls! apartment - right next to the cure 3. Weasel: I’d go with you, but... I don’t for blindness. Good luck. want to.

will take you out of

By Michael Espinoza your comfort zone.

Staff Reporter

The humor ig: _itsmikesaaan_ is an interesting change to the genre. Some of the jokes in this movie will even make you question your own morality, leaving you with the thought of “oh my God, why am I laughing at this.” Writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick and director Tim Miller did a phenomenal job of bringing longtime fans of the merciless mercenary the story we have been waiting for.

All in all, Deadpool was a great movie to kick off the year. It is very fun to watch and is an amazing ride watching it on the big screen.

Everyone in my theater stayed long after the credits started rolling to see if there were any post credit scenes. Marvel did not disappoint.

This movie does not fall short whatsoever and is one that will be remembered for a very long time.

artwork by Hermes Martinez

STARRING Ryan Reynolds, T.J. Miller, Morena Baccarin

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Lif est y le

Feat u re

Oscars: Black, White and seen all over

Actor Michael B. Jordan and director Ryan Coogler were not not nominated for any Oscars. photo courtesy of MGM

Spotlight won two Oscars, Original Screenplay and Best Picture of the Year. photo courtesy of First Look Media

The Hateful Eight was nominated for three Oscars and won for Best Score. photo courtesy of Double Feature Films

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Leonardo DiCaprio in The Revenant. DiCaprio won the Oscar for Best Actor. photo courtesy 20th Century Fox/TNS

Every year, your unathletic, pretentious and cynical Editor-In-Chief indulges in a ceremony unlike any other.

The Oscars.

Yes, every year this Vibe editor subjects himself to hours of flat jokes, awkward speeches and disappointing winners.

This year was different.

It all started with the announcement of the nominations. All 20 of the acting nominees and the eight Best Picture included no people of color. Celebrities, including director Spike Lee, actress Jada Pinkett Smith and actor Mark Ruffalo, boycotted the event.

I’m a pretty open-minded individual and feel everyone, no matter what creed or color, deserves every chance to succeed in the world.

I just have a problem with entitlement.

That comment will make a lot of people upset.

I apologize in advance, but I intend to speak my mind about the #OscarSoWhite issue. An issue that is so

mind-bogglingly ridiculous, I feel like I shouldn’t have to spend a page complaining about it.

Yet here I am, trying to defend an art form. An art form under scrutiny from people who feel that voters are racist.

To me the Oscars symbolize an achievement unlike any other. Film is the type of medium that transcends any generational gap. Anybody can get on board with a good movie. The Oscars celebrate that.

The year 2015 was a phenomenal year for movies.

The Catholic Church’s scandals and 2008 financial crash were given more light in films like Spotlight and The Big Short, respectively. George Miller directed his magnum opus of an action film, Mad Max: Fury Road while Ridley Scott came back strong with The Martian.

All those films and so many others were deserving of the top prize’s nominations.

The same argument can be made for films like Creed or Straight Outta Compton, the latter of the two that has been argued about the most this year.

They both are great films

and just so By Ciro Salcedo happen to Editor-in-chief feature pre- @ cj_fett_salcedo dominantly Black cast and crew members.

They didn’t make the cut, and that’s normal.

Unfortunately, it has become a large race issue for no reason at all.

The Oscars aren’t racist, they just voted on different films.

Where is the backlash for Star Wars: The Force Awakens? The Hateful Eight? Both films had black main characters and were phenomenal, but no one batted an eye when they weren’t included in the top eight.

Is it because they were directed by white people?

Whatever the case, they weren’t nominated. And that’s okay.

Look, we can’t keep pulling the “card” every time something doesn’t align with everyone’s political correctness radar.

It just makes a small situation much bigger than it should be.

So to make a long story short: get over it. Trust me, there are bigger things going on in the world. Just enjoy the fact we have so many great movies to watch every year.

Movies

L if estyle

10 Cloverfield Lane STARRING John Goodman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, John Gallagher Jr. DIRECTED BY Dan Trachtenberg RATING PG-13

LENGTH 1 hr., 43 min.

By CJ Salcedo

Editor -in-Chief @CJ_Fett_Salcedo

It’s like a cross between David Fincher’s Panic Room, Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining and Boris Sagal’s The Omega Man.

This is the best way to describe what it felt like to watch 10 Cloverfield Lane.

That’s no jab at the film, in any way possible. It’s a near perfect thriller that manages to bring fear through the most minimalistic methods.

It starts with sound. Crazy right?

The film is a masterpiece in sound editing and mixing. The screeching of a large metallic door opening and closing, coupled with the menacing steps of the film’s antagonist all left me with this

John Goodman, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and John Gallagher Jr. in 10 Cloverfield Lane. photo with permission Paramount/TNS

sense of discomfort and paranoia. Something I haven’t experienced since I saw Jaws on AMC at the age of six. The film is best experienced on a big screen, and totally worth the $20 for IMAX or other premium formats.

That paranoia is also brought upon by actor John Goodman. In most films, he is either playing the lovable father figure or a backstabbing villain. Only rarely is he playing a character who is radically different. (The quotable Walter Sobchak from The Big Lebowski comes to mind.)

Despite what trailers have shown, it’s quite difficult to pinpoint where his character would fall between those two.

Aside from that chilling perfor-

mance comes an excellent script filled with just enough exposition to give enough, but never too much to feel forced.

The direction by first timer, Dan Trachtenberg, maintains this claustrophobic feel throughout. His careful attention to detail, the use of different shots and those wonderfully uncomfortable angles make it something special.

It never feels like a sequel, but like something else. Something out of America’s cold-war paranoia. Something that will leave audiences wondering what makes a monster and what makes a man.

I couldn’t think of any other franchise film to do anything like that.

L if est y le

M us ic

Ray Goren amazes with Songs for You

Ruth B’s voice lost in latest single By christine Monge

Ruth Berhe, also known as Ruth B, released her latest fantasy stricken Peter staff reporter Pan themed single, “Lost Boy” in early ig: scarletmarked December of last year and has caused a musical uproar ever since. Ruth B is a Canadian born singer and has gotten recognition from singing songs on the social media platform Vine and has performed on television programs such as the Today Show.

“Lost Boy” is a featured song in her EP album The Intro which is composed of two other songs titled “Superficial Love” and “Golden.”

“Lost Boy” is a treat for Disney fans and music fans alike; it explains the journey between a lonely little boy and the legendary Peter Pan.

Ruth B starts off with a soft piano melody and picks up the pace in the chorus. The song overall is very slow and mellow contrasting to the other songs you might hear on the radio. It can be either soothing or incredibly boring depending on the way you interpret it. It is purely vocals and a piano, which is difficult to pull off but Ruth B seems to do it effortlessly.

Additionally, the lyrics are very dull and monotonous, so if you’re expecting lyrics with a deep, influential meaning “Lost Boy” is definitely not the song for you.

It doesn’t fall under that category.

Personally, I find the song very slow and uninteresting, but if you’re into those types of storytelling songs, this one is for you. In my opinion, this song is very repetitive and it is a shame Ruth B’s enchanting voice is wasted on this piece.

“Lost Boy” is a mediocre song, however, Ruth B does have excellent talent and it is truly a shame the lyrics are unadorned and unvaried. I would love to see what her future endeavors hold, and I hope that her talent is not wasted on petty songs such as “Lost Boy.”

1 8 t h ev i per vi b e @ g mai l . com

photos with permission Columbia/Moxie

Ray Goren is a singer/songwriter By Amy moscoso-orella who plays guitar, as well as other in- staff reporter struments. Self-taught, he started out amymoscoso14@gmail.com playing piano and grew up listening to Jazz. He’s a live performer who’s played all around the United States, sharing the stage with artists such as BB King, Buddy Guy, Alice Cooper, Johnny Lang, Eric Gales, Robby Grieger, and Leon Russell.

His original music has received praise and AX’s Entertainment Music has declared Goren one of the ten best independent artists of the summer.

Goren’s Save My Soul extended play charted on the Root’s charts for around six months, peaking at number 13 on the charts. His latest extended play Songs For You released in August 2015 is a five song EP that Jay Vee Records released and Grammy Award winning artist Steve Jordan produced

After reviewer Jason Debord saw Goren open for BB King in Monterey, he wrote on rocksubculture.com, “Ray is a real phenomenon, and you sit there not believing what you are seeing and hearing… It was really one of the most unbelievable moments I’ve ever experienced at any concert. Amazing.”

Personally, I’m not a huge fan of Blues but after listening to “Song For Me” from his latest EP, I might just give it a real shot.

“Song For Me” has shown to be a high energy Rock/Blues piece that takes the person listening to it through a musical and emotional journey. His style makes the listener get lost in the music and get away from the daily stress due to his amazingly soulful R&B infused vocals and soul piercing guitar. Which is what the Blues was designed to do in the first place.

All I can say about this young man is that I’m astonished by how much he’s accomplished and how far he’s come without being born into a world where opportunities were just handed to him. His music is amazing and quite soothing yet has a kick to it. Goren will go far in life and it won’t be too long before his sold out concerts are heard everywhere. His music is amazing and it’s something everyone should give a shot.

photos with permission Jay-Vee Inc./Moxie

Varela S p or ts

sports Winter teams dominate season Girls Basketball

by Danielle Malkin As Spring rolls

Managing Editor around, Vipers say IG: _candidani goodbye to winter sports and say hello to the new season.

With the spring season starting, the Lady Vipers headed to the court and gave it their all during winter. In fact, it proved to be quite a successful season for the ladies on the hardwood.

“It went well because we worked as a team,” junior point guard Natasha Polanco said. “It [the season and coaching staff] really opened my eyes to how quick a team can turn into a family.”

Breaking several school records, the team went the furthest in their season.

The ladies finished with 17 wins and 7 loses, and an advancement into district finals. In 2013 and 2014, the Lady Vipers finished third in the district. It was unsure if the girls could make it happen in 2015.

“We only had two returners this year. The comeback was very unexpected, but it was a big improvement,” Head Coach Ryan Schneider said.

This was a first in Girls Basketball history, as well as many individual milestones. Polanco reached a career high of

Boys Soccer

by Giovanni del fa

The Varela Boys Soccer team Section Editor made it all the way IG: gio_delfa to regional finals this year despite having lost in district finals versus Killian by penalty kicks.

Varela was able to get their revenge on Killian after beating them 2 – 0 in regional competition and taking them out of this year’s soccer season for good.

“It was a great season full of ups and downs. It was very memorable, we made it very far when no one expected us to and dominated every team we faced,” senior Abraham Chavarria said.

In the regional finals they went against Cypress Bay in an intense battle that ended 2 – 1 in favor of the opposing team.

1,000 points in only her junior year. Senior Laura Chirino-Quintero would go on the score the highest amount of points per game against the Miami Sunset Knights, with 22 points.

“I wasn’t happy with the beginning of the season,” Chirino-Quintero said. “I made more changes offensively and it worked.”

Following a second place district title after a loss to South Head Coach Ryan Schneider goes over a play with his Lady Vipers. The team Dade Buccaneers, the ladies ad- placed second in Districts and moved onto Regionals. photo by Fox-Mar vanced to regionals against the

“Natasha Polanco had a great year,” Our Lady of Lourdes Bobcats, Schneider continued. “It was a complete once again failing to leave with a “W.” 180. She improved her leadership skills

Despite not making it to the State and her playing ability. The kids look up Championships, an early goal for the to the best players on the team and the ladies, they made it to Regionals, a new best players need to be good leaders.” high for the Vipers. Schneider said the The coaching staff and ladies agree biggest impact came not only from the team as a whole, but from individuals as that next year will be bigger and better.

They aim for district title, focusing on well. technique and family, in order to build a

“It really was a building year for team unbeatable in District and Regional the team, on and off the court,” he said. play.

“Working with the Best Buddies pro “I’m really proud of our team,” gram and focusing on outreach really Chirino-Quintero said. “It’s bigger than taught the girls to be thankful. It solidibasketball.” fied them as a team.”

For the second year in a row, the team faced off against Cypress Bay in the Regional Finals, but came back stronger.

Last year Varela had a heart breaking loss of 5 -1 versus Cypress Bay, but this year only came up short by a score of 2 – 1 and with that devastating loss the season was over for our Vipers.

Our Vipers were winning for the majority of the game but towards the end were tied 1 – 1 and lost with a golden goal in overtime, which essentially means one more goal will win the game in a tie and overtime.

“We had a good run, we could’ve won states but we had unfortunate events that hap-

Varela Boys Soccer lose in Districts, but make it to Region finals. photos by Fox-Mar

pened, a couple of players got suspended and injured. We made it pretty far though,” senior Julian Gigante said.

S por t s Varel a

Spring into sports Spring Sports at Felix Varela has brought highs and lows: the new girls’ flag football team, changes to coaching staffs all around, and new records for the ladies and men. While many teams have already wrapped on their season, the Boys Volleyball, Girls Track and Field, Girls Flag Football, Baseball, and Badminton make their way to district and regional finals.

Making the largest waves in Miami Dade County is Girls Flag Football. Officially sanctioned by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) in 2003, there were less than 100 total teams playing in the state. According to floridahsfootball.com, there were 250 Girls Flag Football teams in the

Badminton Seniors Randall Elkind and Claudia Campero compete in Mixed Doubles.

“I’ve been a player for four years.

It’s just really competitive even though a lot of people don’t think it is, because they don’t think Badminton is a sport.

But it’s actually super tough,” Campero said.

While they operate as a team, players compete individually. Junior Leana Lu and senior Andrea Nieto-Salgado won at Districts for Girls Doubles. They went on to GMAC finals and lost in the third round.

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Sunshine State in March of 2015, with only eight in Miami-Dade. Fast forward one year, and there are 31 teams in Miami-Dade alone, with over 265 teams playing in the state.

The girls themselves are making a splash and pulling off some incredible things. Head Coach of the Lady Viper Flag Football Team Patrick Ledan said that many people don’t see the struggles of flag versus tackle football.

“In tackle football, if you make a mistake, you can just hit somebody really, really hard,” Ledan said. “Here, you have to make sure of your technique and really understand. You can’t just have anybody running around.”

Track and Field Boys Volleyball Junior, Sofia Naya, runs the 300 meter hurdles.

“Overall most people are new, so the team itself isn’t doing that great but everyone’s learning and as for the returners we are doing good and excelling,” she said.

Naya and senior Ilenia Garcia competed at Districts and advanced to the Regional level for the 300 meter hurdles and the 200 meter dash, respectively.

Senior Randy Rivera spikes the ball.

The team stands at 7-2 with Districts coming the last week of April.

“Our team this year is a strong team. We have a lot to work on, but we are getting stronger,” said senior captain Randall Elkind.

The team lost in Districts last year, but hope to go farther this year.

“Last year, we set the bar high, but this year we’ll set it higher,” senior Giancarlo Rodriguez said.

Girls Tennis

Baseball

Flag Football

Senior Laura Pena returns serve during a game. She has a personal record of 1-3.

“The best part of being in a team is the friendship we have all obtained,” she said.

Junior captain Lucas Medina felt that the team as a whole did better than expected.

“We had a lot of first time players this year who performed great. All in all, the team played very well and we had a great season,” he said.

“We don’t stop,” sophomore catcher Hector Gomez said. “Baseball is my passion, and along with the pitcher, I love being part of every defendsive play.”

The Vipers baseball team have an overall record of 8-12. The Vipers baseball team swung their way into the playoffs, Monday, April 18. They beat Ferguson in their first game 6-0, but lost 5-1 against Southwest in the District semi-finals tournament.

“I’m very excited about this flag football team, I love the sport. I find flag football extremely fun,” said junior Natasha Polanco, one of the captains of the team.

The flag football team has achieved a record of 6-2 and has been led by head coach Patrick Ledan.

“I’m just looking at districts,”Ledan said. “I know we have what it takes to win it.”

Boys Tennis

Track and Field

Softball

Jovanny Valdez competes in the Long Jump. He recorded a distance of 20 feet.

“All I can say is that I did good.

Feeling good, feeling great, breaking records,” he said.

All around the team had an average season, with 30 - 40 new runners.

Individual success was achieved in events such as the 100, 200, 300 meter hurdles, and 400 and 1600 meters.

Junior outfielder, Denise Sanchez, fields a ground ball in a game against Michael Krop Sr. High.

“Always try hard, because you never know how far you’ll get,” she said.

As of this point, Varela’s softball record is 6-2. Their senior game ended in a score of 20-6, up against South Miami.

Junior Rene Menchaca returns a ball in a game versus Michael Krop Sr. High.

“I started slow and as time went on I started to pick my pace up and play better, and I played at a level I was happy with,” he said.

Junior Lucas Medina, sophomore Kevin Herrera and Menchaca all made it to semi-finals.

“I think that we did a lot better than we did last year. This year we actually tried to push ourselves to get better results,” Menchaca said.

information gathered by: Alexa Castillo, Nicole Castro, Laura Chirino, Sacha Constant, Antonella Costantino, Shannon Guevara, Danielle Malkin, Kathleen Maura, Jahhel Thernelan, Kelvin Valdes, and Krystal Valdes

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S por t s Varel a

by Kathleen Maura Staff Reporter IG: kathleenmauraa

Andrew Weiss #3

Andrew Weiss is a senior utility player for the Vipers varsity Baseball team. This means that he can play pretty much any position; however, he can usually be found at second base.

“He’s the one who gets us started,” says senior shortstop, Jaymark Garcia. “He is our lead-off hitter and a key player.”

But the end is nowhere near for him; he is undecided as to what school he’ll be attending to next fall. Florida Gulf Coast University, the University of Central Florida, and Florida International University have all offered scholarships academically and athletically. All are possible choices and he will be making his decision by the beginning of May.

“I’m going to miss this,” he said.

Starting at the age of 5, Weiss knew that the only career he wanted to pursue was anything that included baseball.

Franco Velasquez #19

As a very young athlete, senior Franco Velasquez knew he wanted to imitate one of the greatest players in baseball history, Babe Ruth. Starting and ending his high school career as a pitcher, similar to his idol, Velasquez is hopeful that in college he’ll finally get to step up to the plate.

Point Park University, Community College of Baltimore and Florida Memorial have all offered scholarships for baseball. He will be making his decision towards the end of his high school baseball career. Velasquez is excited for his new journey as a pitcher in the next level.

“In baseball, the pitcher is involved in every single defensive play,” said Velasquez.

The spotlight is mainly on the mound, where Velasquez faces batters one on one. Good pitching will always stop good hitting and Velasquez has proved that by leading Miami Dade County with 45 strike outs. Out of a district record of 2-6, Velasquez has two wins, two loses and five no decisions.

His advice to starting varsity players next year? “Never give up.

Always give it your all and leave your heart on the field. Don’t get too high when you win and don’t get too low when you lose, remain neutral.”

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photos by Fox-Mar

Pro S p or ts

Gender bending sports

With more acceptance for women in leadership roles, professional sports organizations such as the NBA and NFL are hiring women to fill coaching positions.

Becky Hammon, former WNBA School in the late 80s, yet no record exists of Spinosa’s coachplayer for the San Antonio Silver ing term.

Star and New York Liberty and “It was never put in writing…. I guess that just wasn’t two time Olympian, became done,” Spinosa said. the second female in history The Greater Miami Athletic Conference, the GMAC, is curto coach in the National Basketball Association rently headed by Cheryl Golden, a veteran of high school in August of 2014 when she signed with the San athletics in Miami Dade. Golden’s legacy has stretched deAntonio Spurs. Almost two years later, sports cades of men and women entering positions of athletic analysts and writers believe Hammon is the administration, in a world that was never meant for best candidate for the head coaching job women.

Spinosa says it has become a better world of the Brooklyn Nets. But, the haters were with women at the helm. quick to make their contradictions known.

“I’ve fought for those opportunities.

Morning show host, Kevin Kiley, of CBS And I’ve conquered it and I was sucCleveland Sports Radio told USA Today that cessful in them, proving the fact that it’s there was no place for women in professionnot the gender, it’s the person placed in al sports. Kiley went on to state that women photo illustration by E. Cardenas that position.” will never have the qualifications or knowledge in order to

Changes are pending, at both a local and national level, work in the league. as the National Football League and other professional out It would not be Kiley’s first or last comment on women lets encourage more women to enter the world of coaching. working in professional sports. Following Kathryn Smith’s But many believe that male or female, a coach is there to do hire as the “special team quality control coach” for the Bufone thing: encourage their athletes to play responsibly and falo Bills, Kiley claimed it was not discrimination, but it was enjoy the game. wrong to “set people up to fail.”

“Male or female, you’re only as good as the people

Interestingly enough, Hammon’s resume is not synonaround you,” said Spinosa. ymous with failure. At all. According to the biography on beckyhammond25.com, the official website for Becky Hammon, Hammon falls short of no accolades. In her lifetime, Hammon has been named South Dakota Player of the Year, an All-American at Colorado State University, WAC Mountain Division player of the year for the 1998-1999 season, drafted to the WNBA in 2007, WNBA Peak Performer, a member of the elite 3000/800 club in 2008, as one of a handful of WNBA players to score 3,000 career points and dish 800 career assists, earned a spot on the Russian National Team, and has been named to over five WNBA All Star Teams. If anything, Hammon is more than qualified.

“I think the best person for the job should be the person who gets it,” Lisa Spinosa, Felix Varela Athletic Director, said.

“Qualifications are qualifications, male or female.”

Spinosa understands what it means to be an ignored female in a world dominated by men. Entering the world of high school athletics in the 80s, qualifications had a bias on gender and a blind eye on job history. Spinosa was the Head Boys Basketball Coach at Miami Coral Park Senior High

by Danielle Malkin Managing Editor IG: _candidani

Leading Ladies Athletic Director Lisa Spinosa and Activities Director Felicia Christin welcome students on the first day of school. photo by FoxMar