Distraction issue 18

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE TO MIAMI

IBIS yearbook

YOU SENIOR

ItoWANT take your starting oct. 28 10AM–6PM UC Lower Lounge Graduating Seniors

Schedule your appointment at www.ibisyearbook.com School Code: 136

portrait * *Portraits free for undergraduates

WHAT’S INSIDE THE GUIDE

5 Sunday Wake-Up Call

By Ivana Cruz

By Alexa Pappas

By Marchesa Bergman

8 ZZ Ward: The It Girl 9 A Booz-y Halloween

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IN THE LOOP

10 Confessions of an

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Ex-Sebastian

By Chelsea Irizarry 11 Dating? There’s an App

for That

By Emily Eidelman

12 The 5K Fad

By Lexi Williams

13 More Than Muscle

By Asmae Fahmy

14 Moochers Welcome

By Luisa Andonie

SPORTS

15 A Team That Kills

By Kristen Spillane 16 End of an Error

20

By Will Gretsky

17 The Definitive Guide to

Nickname Glory, ACC Edition

By Patrick Riley

FASHION

20 Modern Muse

By Gabrielle Mottaz, Marissa Bell & Allison Baer

26 Fall Fashion in Miami

By Vivian Braga

MAIN EVENT

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28

28 Locals Only: An Insider’s Guide to Miami

By Nicole Vila

34 What Do I Do With My Butt?

By Rachel Kliger

40 No Money, No Problems

By Kayla Lott

END NOTES

44 Where Did All the Girls/ Guys Go?

GET A DAILY DOSE OF YOUR FAVORITE MAGAZINE AT DISTRACTION MAGAZINE.COM

CULTURE

FASHION

MUSIC

SPORTS

FOOD October 2013

STUDENT LIFE Distraction

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Letter from the Editor

october 2013

distractionmagazine.com

DESCRIBE MIAMI IN ONE WORD: Editor-in-Chief _Ivana Cruz Executive Editor_Raquel Zaldivar Managing Editor_Alexandra Solano Assistant Managing Editor_Devika Boodhoo Art Director_Megan McCrink Photo Editors_Karli Evans & Rori Kotch Assistant Art Directors_Kacie Nelson & Rachel Watkins Assistant Photo Editor_Melissa Mallin Digital Imaging Specialist_Kelly Smith Copy Chief_Jessica Swanson Assistant Copy Chief_Alexa Pappas In The Loop Editor _Trevor Maxim Sports Editor_Patrick Riley Assistant Sports Editor_Kristen Spillane Fashion Editor_Gabrielle Mottaz Assistant Fashion Editors_ Allison Baer & Marissa Bell The Main Event Editor_Rachel Kliger Public Relations Manager_Andrea O’Neal Assistant PR Manager_Marika Abe Business Manager_Vanessa Le Faculty Advisor_Randy Stano DISTRACTIONMAGAZINE.COM Editorial Coordinator_Raquel Zaldivar Online Managing Editor_Nicole Vila Web Master_Matt Ross Music Blog Editor_Hyan De Freitas Fashion Blog Editor_Alyssa Jacobson Photo Blog Editor_Melissa Mallin Student Life & Culture Blog Editor_Molly Canfield Features Blog Editor_Taylor Duckett CONTRIBUTORS Luisa Andonie, Writer Gianna Balasco, Designer & Illustrator Zach Beeker, Photographer Robert Bennet, Photographer Holly Bensur, Photographer Marchesa Bergman, Writer Vivian Braga, Writer Brandon Carusillo, Public Relations Victoria Diaz, Illustrator Emily Eidelman, Writer Asmae Fahmy, Writer

Will Gretsky, Writer Michael Gutierrez, Photographer Bo Hu, Photographer Chelsea Irizarry, Writer Kayla Lott, Writer Erin Meagher, Designer Kristi Townsend, Photographer Tiffany Yancey, Photographer Lexi Williams, Writer Kylie Wyman, Designer

When it comes to contributors, we’re not picky. Whether you’ve found your niche in a bio book, you’re notorious for doing “nothing” at the comm or business school, or you’re halfway into your college career and still wave that “undeclared major” flag, we want to hear what you have to say. Distraction is written for students, by students, and covers the full spectrum of student life here at The U. If you want to get involved with us or have any questions, email our editor-in-chief, Ivana Cruz, at i.cruz3@miami.edu and she will get you in contact with the right people.

The magazine is produced four times per year, twice a semester. City Graphics and NU-PRESS Miami printed 6,500 copies of the magazine on 8.5 x 11 inch, 60-pound coated text paper 4/4. The entire magazine is printed four-color and saddle stitch bound. Most text is nine-point Minion Pro with 1.8 points of leading set ragged with a combination of bold, medium and italic. All pages were designed using Adobe Creative Suite 6 software InDesign with photographs and artwork handled in PhotoShop and Illustrator. For additional information please visit distractionmagazine. com. Questions and comments can be mailed to 1330 Miller Drive, Coral Gables, Fla. 33146, dropped into SAC Student Media Suite, Suite 202A, or emailed to i.cruz3@miami.edu. All articles, photographs and illustrations are copyrighted by the University of Miami.

People tend to be proud of where they’re from; proud of their country, proud of their city and even proud of their neighborhood.

From that pride stems a unique love that allows the people at the source to become the D.N.A. of a place and frankly, the best darn tour guides you can find. For our first issue of the school year, we wanted someone proud and in love with Miami to share some of that genetic map that makes this city so addicting and spectacular. Our Online Managing Editor and Miami native, Nicole Vila, did just that in “Locals Only, An Insider’s Guide to Miami” (page 28).

The Miami I see today is not nearly the same “305” I remember in 1997 when I first left the city only to return again years later. Ultra wasn’t a thing and Wynwood wasn’t the best place to have a Saturday night out (it actually wasn’t even a place at all.) Now there is a certain excitement when you think of Miami’s upcoming neighborhoods - an opportunity to explore places you haven’t been to before because of the constant development and change.

And that’s just it. The city has changed and it is still in that process. Like Miami, our campus is changing too. “Now What do I do with my Butt” (page 34) by Rachel Kliger illustrates the steps the school is taking to make our campus a cleaner environment and what these new restrictions mean to smokers in the process. The way we flirt and form relationships is changing, as described in “Dating? There’s an App for that” (page 11). Even the way we watch TV, “Moochers Welcome” (page 14), and the way we play football, “End of an Error” (page 16), is changing.

As humans we are hesitant to change, but whether it be good or bad, there is always something to be learned from transformation. This issue celebrates and takes a look at the changes occurring around us. We hope that you learn to appreciate them as we have.

Sincerely,

WE LIKE YOU ABOUT US

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Ivana Cruz

THE COVER: LOCALS ONLY

photo_rori kotch. design and typography_ivana cruz. digital editing_kelly smith. style_gabrielle mottaz. model_claire fisher.

To describe in one image what Miami currently is, we had to take archetypes from the past and place them in a setting of the present. This city is synonymous with beaches, sunbathing and flashy cars. However, it is also becoming a hub for art and street-style. To illustrate that,Wynwood was the perfect

backdrop in the sunrise light. As for the car, we would like to thank David Goodman for allowing us to use his beyond cool 1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. Watch the behind the scenes video on www.distractionmagazine.com.

THE CAR: 1978

Pontiac Firebird Trans Am photo_kelly smith and raquel zaldivar.

SIGNATURE Trans Am cars have a “chicken” hood appliqué that first appeared in 1973.

KE$HA features a gold Pontiac Firebird Trans Am in her music video for “Tik Tok.” DURING the years 1978-79, Pontiac increased the power of the Trans Am by ten percent.

TRANS AM model year production exceeded 100,000 in 1979, making them one of the most popular vehicles of the time.

THE ELEMENTS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF IVANA CRUZ DIRECTED MODEL CLAIRE FISHER AT THE COVER SHOOT IN WYNWOOD.

THE COVER SHOOT BEGAN AT 6:00 AM TO CATCH THE PERFECT MORNING LIGHT AT SUNRISE.

COMMENTS TO DISTRACTION

“I always love looking at The Guide and finding new places to try. It makes me go out and explore Miami. I found my new favorite pancake place in the highlighted vegan cafes from last issue.”

Meagan Mesirow, Sophomore “It’s cool that Distraction pushed the edge and talked about things that people don’t usually talk

VIDEOGRAPHER KAPPES CHATFIELD FILMED THE COVER SHOOT FOR BEHIND THE SCENES FOOTAGE. about, things that are taboo.”

Justin Borroto,

Senior “Sex is a normal and necessary human condition. Everyone does it and everyone needs it.”

Jesus Melendez, Junior “Lingerie is always something people think of as raunchy and dirty, but the

fashion photos did a really good job of making it look pristine and beautiful.

It was nice to see it incorporated into everday outfits. Loved the location too!”

Stephanie Martin, Senior HAVE AN OPINION ABOUT THIS ISSUE? EMAIL IT TO FEEDBACK. DISTRACTION@ GMAIL.COM

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Phone 305.278.8822 Fax 305.278.1884

455 West 26th St. Hialeah, FL 33010

sales@goodmans.net

THE GUIDE

SUNDAY WAKE UP CALL words_ivana cruz. photo_rori kotch. design_megan mccrink.

If there was ever a reason to wake up before 2:00 p.m. after a night out, brunch at one of these restaurants is one of them.

The boozy brunch scene in South Florida may not be as club-like as the one in New York, but it definitely has menus that can match it. Here are the top contenders:

EATING HOUSE

Cap’n Crunch Pancakes, EATING HOUSE

There’s fried chicken, there’s waffles, and then there is Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli’s fried chicken and sweet waffles with candied bacon and creamy ranch that pays homage to the classic like no other. Opened in Coral Gables in February 2012 as a pop-up, Eating House’s quick success led to its permanent location where Café Ponce once was and its takeover of the brunch scene in the area. Their menu varies from week to week but you can always count on the most delicious flavor combinations you’ve ever started your day with. 804 Ponce de Leon Blvd., 305-448-6524; eatinghousemiami.com

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FOOD

Funfetti Ice Cream Sandwich, MICHAEL’S GENUINE

Eggs Benedict, BALANS

Steak and Eggs, OVER THE COUNTER

OTC

Unlimited drinks at any time are a college student’s dream. Unlimited mimosas for only $20 at brunch is simply surreal. At OTC, Over the Counter, in Brickell this fantasy comes complete with a menu that features Banana Frosted Flakes French Toast slathered in homemade syrup and one of the best pulled pork eggs benedict in its category. This American-style restaurant exemplifies the fast-paced style and fun spirit of a New York brunch spot.

1250 South Miami Ave., 305-374-4612; otc-restaurants.com

SWINE

From the creators of Yardbird and 50 Eggs Inc. comes the latest in southern and rustic dining.

If you are a pulled pork, bacon or any other pig by-product enthusiast, Swine will be your new preferred weekend brunching spot. Their menu has a plate for any kind of pork craving, like their Morning Quiche with crunchy pork belly and melted Gruyère. Sweet enthusiasts will not be disappointed either; their Warm Sticky Icky Bun with maple-bourbon toffee syrup, smoked bacon and sweet potato pie ice cream is a musthave. 2415 Ponce de Leon Blvd., 786-360-6433; runpigrun.com

THE FEDERAL

Think comfort food, but better. At The Federal, you can start off with a warm freshly baked

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The Guide

biscuit, then move on to their chorizo frittata with a goat cheese like no other you’ve ever had before and pair that with their creamy fish dip and homemade potato chips. If your stomach still isn’t fulfilled, end your meal with their Cookies-and-Cream French Toast topped with whipped ricotta and sweet bourbon caramel.

All this while being surrounded by a relaxed woodsy environment that feels like home. Bottomless mimosas are only $16 per person as well. This restaurant intertwines comfort and pleasure. 5132 Biscayne Blvd., 305-758-9559; thefederalmiami.com

BALANS

With outdoor tall tables and sleek style, Balans is the true embodiment of the Brickell essence.

Only here can you enjoy a scrumptious combo breakfast (as in pancakes and two eggs your way with sausage on the side) while sipping a chilled Bellini or Bloody Mary as you watch a Ferrari being parked in front. Their optionfilled menu covers your every brunch request and preference with some added variety, like their six kinds of eggs benedict. 901 South Miami Ave., 305-534-9191; balans.co.uk

MICHAEL’S GENUINE

Always fresh ingredients and locally-grown items are at the heart of Michael’s Genuine and eponymous owner and chef Michael Schwartz’s culinary mantra. The vibe is trendy but the plates are all about bringing out the best flavor out of simple ingredients. Their menu varies on a weekly basis but some dishes you can count on are the breakfast pizza with house smoked

bacon and farm eggs, the chorizo, shrimp and chili aioli rice cake and the caramel apple cider pot de crème. And don’t forget their popular crispy pig ears, the best kind of fried deliciousness to ever be placed in a jar. 130 NE 40th Street, 305-573-5550; michaelsgenuine.com

MERCADITO

They call it “The Ultimate Hangover Cure” on their menu, but you could also think of it as the best way to do Mexican before 5:00 p.m. on a Sunday (don’t let the tequila shots from the night before dissuade you). For $30 you get unlimited cocktails and three plates from their brunch menu for the table. The items are meant to be shared, but you might not want to after you’ve tried their Huevos Rancheros or Tacos Estilo Baja with beer-battered mahi mahi.

3252 NE First Ave., 786-369-0430; mercaditorestaurants.com

BARCELONETA

If in the mood for a tapas-based Spaniard meal, Barceloneta is the perfect place to share multiple plates with some good friends. Their ingredients are as crisp and casual as the ambience, which successfully transports you across the Atlantic to a restaurant along a brick-paved street in Barcelona. The croquetas and Gambas con Chocolate are a modern take on classic plates different from local counterparts and more than worthy of a try. And there is a location close enough to campus to walk off last night’s hangover on your way to the best kind of Spanish pick-me-up. 5850 Sunset Drive, 305665-0020; barcelonetarestaurant.com

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MUSIC

ZZ WARD: THE IT GIRL words_alexa pappas. photo_raquel zaldivar. design_megan mccrink.

Up-and-coming American singer ZZ Ward performs at Neiman Marcus, Merrick Park, in conjunction with their CUSP event.

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Distraction was given the distinct opportunity to be VIP at the Neiman Marcus’ Cusp event on Wednesday, September 25, which included a fun live DJ, adorable finger foods and a private concert by up-and-coming artist, ZZ Ward.

Incredibly down-to-earth and easy to talk to, Ward sat down with Distraction to talk about being on the ‘cusp’ of fame.

“Fashion is a big part of music,” Ward said. “And the more I see the country and the world, the more inspired I get by fashion.”

The singer-songwriter takes pride in her fashion, and she will soon team up with Neiman Marcus to start her own fedora line.

(A fedora is her signature fashion accessory and she wears it to pay homage to the blues artists who inspired her to sing.)

When asked about her musical influences, Ward listed an interesting array of both older artists and current ones.

“I really liked Etta James, Tina Turner, Big Mama Thorton….and on the hip-hop side, Nas, Jay-Z and Outcast,” she said.

Due to the variety of her preferred genre combinations, ZZ Ward’s sound is so versatile that she can successfully perform in front of an audience of both college students and a 50+ crowd alike; all rocking out to her slower jams.

Her debut album, “Til The Casket Drops,” features two singles, and she hopes to go far with it. Her favorite from the album is “Lil Darlin” - it’s the blues-iest song on the album.

“It’s about the ups and downs of a relationship,”Ward said, pulling away from the makeup artist who was finishing her look before the show. “Sometimes you have to go through a war to find the right love.”

ZZ Ward has a distinct sound—she has been described as a folksy combination of Adele and Amy Winehouse—a comment that took her by surprise.

“I just can’t believe that people know the lyrics to my songs,” Ward said. “I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do.”

Ward’s unique approach to music and fashion was humbling and refreshing for a young artist who is riding a surging wave towards fame.

“I just hope that I can keep making music for people that appreciate it. I never thought I would have fans…As long as that keeps happening, then I’m fine with it,” Ward said.

“Til The Casket Drops” is available on iTunes and Spotify, and Ward’s remix of “Yonkers” by Tyler the Creator is on YouTube now.

TO DO haunted house. Costumes are welcome in the park, as long as your face is visible enough for everyone to see your shockingly scared reaction. 1455 NW 107th Ave., East Parking Lot

HALLOWEEN ‘SPOOKOVER’ AT DEERING ESTATE

No sleep for the wicked… and you might even join them during a “Spookover” at Deering Estate. Most popular the night after Halloween, this historical and environmental preserve turns into a paranormal investigation. You might want to bone up on films like “Ghostbusters” and “Paranormal Activity” before you jump into the game with the official “League of Paranormal Investigators.” Armed with EMF readers, voice recorders, cameras and dowsing rods, you’ll be on the hunt for a ghost. This is the all-nighter you’ll want to sign-up for. After searching into the wee hours, breakfast will be served. Call for tickets. 305-235-16688 Ex. 233 If you need anything Halloween-related, Spirit Halloween is the place to go.

They are located at Sunset Place just a five minute walk away from campus.

A BOO-ZY HALLOWEEN words_marchesa bergman. photographer_melissa mallin. design_megan mccrink.

All Hallow’s Eve is fast approaching and so are the spooky festivities. Check out what is happening around Miami this Halloween:

MUD MINGLE HALLOWEEN BALL IN HISTORIC VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK

If an obstacle course is your style and you’re not afraid to get dirty, Mud Mingle is the place for you. Called a “fun, fun don’t take it seriously, very messy and slightly silly 5k and 10k,” the event is like none other. As you muddle through an obstacle course, you will get ambushed by the Mingle staff armed with water

POP CULTURE COSTUMERY words_ivana cruz.

Every year there are reoccurring pop culture-inspiredcostumes that you can’t get enough of. Here are Distraction’s predictions for the best ones of 2013.

guns, pool noodles and buckets full of water.

Afterwards, you’ll be treated to a party at the Hard Rock’s Gryphon and Pangaea, complete with an open bar and more competitions (and of course prizes!). Mud Mingle hosts a lot of events throughout the year and you can check out their website for recent videos. Entry fee includes free drinks, t-shirt and dog tags. www.mudmingle.com

HOUSE OF HORRORS AT MIAMI INTERNATIONAL MALL

Escape to Miami International Mall for its annual House of Horrors Amusement Park.

Spooky ghosts, goblins, carnival rides and live music await at the self-proclaimed “Largest Haunted House in Florida.” Come sundown, you can brave the terrors of that spooky

MILEY CYRUS AT THE VMA’S Nude-colored, rubber-looking fabric will be sold out everywhere for the next month. Twerking and use of foam fingers in inappropriate gestures will clog your news feed. Extra points will be given to those who can find a wrecking ball to hang from!

MIAMI BEACH HALLOWEEN HALF-MARATHON

Meet at South Point Park in your costume (you can impersonate Usain Bolt if you’re out of ideas), for the spookiest 13.1 miles of your life! Complete with a costume contest, the half-marathon is a Halloween party and race in one. Starting at Jungle Island, you can run the whole thing or just a “Freaky Four Miler”. The top finishers will be awarded medals. The race is certified and will have the proper medical treatment and bathrooms on site. www.halloweenhalfmarathon.com

MONSTER MASQUERADE AT ZOO MIAMI

If you score tickets to one of Miami’s hottest Halloween parties, you’ll be in for a real treat.

Decked out in your favorite costume, you can mingle with the animals for a photo-op or get scared at one of the many scare zones. Six open bars will be available, along with yummy bites from Shake Shack, Lime, and Pollo Tropical.

97.3 The Coast will man the DJ booth. All proceeds go to the Zoological Society of Florida. No tricks about it, just bring your ID to the door. Call for tickets. 305-255-5551

HEISENBERG FROM BREAKING BAD Dressing up like a meth cook never looked so cool. The best part of this costume will be the numerous ways it can be done. All that is really needed are the oval glasses, pork pie hat and goatee.

NORTH WEST If people can find a way to embody Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, an airline and two coordinates in one, this could be the most genius costume of all time. Those who dress as this famed baby will sport a brash attitude, so approach them with caution.

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Reminiscing on his days as Sebastian, Winston Bernard poses for Distraction with and without his old costume.

WHAT IT TAKES

CONFESSIONS OF AN

EX-SEBASTIAN words_chelsea irizarry. photo_karli evans. design_rachel watkins.

••• Height: between 5’9” and 6’3” ••• Be able to do the CANES spellout ••• Must pass a quiz about Miami Athletics and its history ••• Be able to think quickly and improvise to interact with fans ••• Must not be afraid to approach anyone once inside the suit ••• Must be able to dance in front of crowds

10 Distraction In the Loop

What is it really like to be Sebastian? That’s probably a question that has crossed your mind a few times. Ex-Sebastian mascot Winston Bernard gave Distraction the inside scoop on what it was really like to be Sebastian the Ibis.

“Sebastian isn’t just a guy in a suit. He is the representation of the University of Miami, past and present,” Bernard said.

It takes more than mastering the C-A-NE-S spell-out in order to take on this job. For example, one has to look the part.

“Not everyone looks as good in orange tights as I do,” Bernard said.

After that, it seems to be all about the energy and love for the U. Suiting up between classes for an on-campus event, pumping up a crowd at a sweltering football game and waking up at 5 a.m. to drive to promotional events are just a few of Sebastian’s responsibilities.

“And you should be able to shoot a basketball from behind your back from half court,” Bernard emphasized. “A lot of sacrifice, work and time goes into being Sebastian, but [for me] it was all very rewarding. Seeing how excited kids and alumni get when they see the Ibis makes it all worth it.”

A lot of sacrifice may go into being Sebastian, but it does have its perks too. Not only does Sebastian get to be on the field for sporting events but he also gets to travel to away games and meet legendary ‘Canes.

“I once did a fundraiser and Howard Schnellenberger came up to me asking for a picture…That was crazy!”

According to Bernard, the best part of the mascot gig is pumping the crowd up at the beginning of a football game.

“There can’t be anything better than being able to run through the smoke and have an entire stadium do the C-A-N-E-S spell-out on your cue,” Bernard said. “Whether it was a football game, wedding or bar mitzvah, the atmosphere reached a whole new level once Sebastian walked in.”

When UM’s basketball team won the ACC Tournament for the first time in school history just last year, Sebastian was there.

“The Duke Blue Devil and Ramsey from UNC didn’t take too kindly to all the bragging I did after the final game,” Bernard joked.

There was not much Bernard could complain about the job except never being able to tailgate. But this disadvantage was easily resolved by attending a game as an alumni.

“Sebastian is more than just our team mascot, or guy in a suit. He represents the university in one of the most special ways,” Bernard said. “Taking on the bird suit was hands down the best decision I ever made at UM. It was an honor to be a part of such an awesome tradition at Miami.”

is because the app makes it much easier for gay guys to meet.

“You don’t have to take the risk of accidently approaching a straight guy,” he said. “It’s much safer for us.”

Delfino has been using Grindr for almost two years. It is similar to Tinder but the community is more conducive to casual encounters. Unlike Kurzu, Delfino has met up with 15 guys through the app.

“It depends on the guy, but we pretty much meet up right away,” he said. “I’ve agreed to meet up with a guy after talking for just 15 minutes.”

However, there are certain unwritten rules on Grindr.

“Users who ask to exchange pictures right away are only looking for a hook-up. Those who want a relationship will start a real conversation. Users who have not posted any pictures at all are still in the closet,” Delfino said.

Delfino says that most men who use the app are pretty normal but, like all dating sites, there are some creepers.

“Older men, sometimes as old as 70, are usually uncanny and have weird fetishes,” Delfino said.

He has met guys at UM that he would have never guessed were gay until he saw them on Grindr. He is currently dating someone he met on the app. Delfino describes him as a handsome guy who does not fit the stereotype.

Both apps are designed with the same purpose in mind. Both are exciting and easily addicting. If the apps have millions of users across the world, why are they not considered the norm? Why do people of different sexual orientations use these apps in different ways?

Regardless of the social stigma surrounding dating apps, students clearly are curious to give them a try and see what the hype is about.

DATING? THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT words_emily eidelman. photo_rori kotch. design_rachel watkins.

There are over 2,000 applications in the Apple App Store related to dating. According to a 2011 survey by Flurry Analytics, there are more people using dating apps than dating websites. These apps are fast, convenient and make hooking up easier than ever.

Students at the University of Miami, along with other young people around the world, admit to downloading dating apps without any serious intentions. 20-year-old advertising and psychology major Sarah Kurzu and 19-yearold sociology major Zack Delfino* admitted to religiously checking Tinder and Grindr.

“It started as a joke,” Delfino said.

“But once you start receiving offers that are somewhat appealing, you get really into it.”

Kurzu is an active user on Tinder, an app that allows heterosexual users to like or dislike pictures of the opposite sex within a certain proximity to them. They are only able to get in contact once both users have “liked” each other.

Kurzu admits to “likes” being solely based on

THE APPS

words_trevor maxim.

Here are the more quirky options you can find in the app store for a less conventional approach to matchmaking.

Salad Match

Users are set up based on their favorite type of salad, created by the fastcasual restaurant Just Salad.

looks, but she does try to limit hers to people that she knows or has seen around campus.

Although Kurzu has talked to as many as 15 guys at once through the app, she has only given her phone number to one – an old friend from her high school rowing team. When she downloaded the app she was more open to meeting new guys but because of the strange people who have tried talking to her, she has become more careful.

“The weirdest guy who ever talked to me was in Key West for the weekend and he invited me down without even knowing me,” she said.

“He gave me an address and everything. He invited me down there for the ‘4 S’s’, and he said he was missing the last one [sex], but if I were to come down, we could fix that.”

For straight users, using Tinder as a way to find a serious romance can be embarrassing sometimes. Almost everyone keeps it a secret.

Yet within the gay community, Grindr is considered socially acceptable. Delfino says this

U4Bear

A social network for gay “bears”, burly men with bushy facial hair, and their admirers.

Grouper

A blind group dating app that connects three male friends with three female friends, described on the app store as a “remote control… just press a button and 3 guys or girls show up”.

*Name has been changed to ensure privacy.

SugarDaddyMeet

Rich and successful men can find attractive college students or aspiring actresses in need of financial support, in exchange for a discreet relationship.

Dickorate

An Android gem that allows men to take a picture of their genitals, adorn them with digital accessories like hats and bowties, and anonymously send the image to a friend or crush.

October 2013

Salad Match

Users are set up based

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5KFAD

THE

words_lexi williams. illustration_victoria diaz. design_kacie nelson.

5

FUN FUTURE RACES

10/26 MIAMI BEACH HALLOWEEN HALF-MARATHON • Miami Beach • Runners are invited to dress up in their craziest costumes to run 13.1 miles of Miami Beach.

• www.halloweenhalfmarathon. com/events/miami-beach/

10/27

FLANIGAN’S RED, WHITE & BREW 10K • Davie • Runners 21 and over receive a free beer or glass of wine after the event.

• www.facebook.com/ FlanigansRedWhiteBrew10k

11/2

BENJAMIN DASH 5K MUD RUN & SCAVENGER HUNT • Hialeah • Run fast, get dirty, win prizes, Flags representing cash prizes and discounts will be set up all throughout the race.

• www.benjamindash.com

11/3

What gets the heart pumping, blood flowing and endorphin levels spiking?

Get your mind out of the gutter! We’re referring to the biggest trend of combined physical, social and competitive activity in South Florida: the “5K Fad.” With races popping up all over Miami (and the photos showing up on your Facebook newsfeed), you’re either part of the hype or have at least considered getting in on it. Here is why.

The challenge: Races are physically and mentally demanding for all runners, regardless of expertise.

The benefits: Training for and participating in races is a surefire way to get in better shape. Not only will you look hotter, you’ll feel hotter too.

The fun: Because no one can help but smile when they’re being blasted with neoncolored powder!

Yet, these races aren’t all endorphins and negative calories. Schemers have capitalized on this rising 5K trend, mainly targeting newbie runners who are less likely to sense a scam.

In October of last year, senior Janmarco Santiago experienced just that. Through a deal on Groupon, he signed up for ZMBLND, a zombie-themed race in Hialeah. An online

12 Distraction In the Loop

advertisement hyped the event, calling it a “treacherous trail full of man-made and natural obstacles.”

Ready to take on his first race, Santiago arrived at Amelia Earhart Park promptly at 10 a.m. only to find that the event crew had yet to show up. To make matters worse, the “obstacle course” turned out to be a 3-mile loop around the park with a handful of “zombies” halfheartedly chasing the hundreds of runners that showed up.

“We were all shocked by the race director’s apparent lack of shame,” Santiago said. “He didn’t even care enough to try and hide the fact that it was a scam.”

Lucky for Santiago, Groupon refunded him for the disastrous race, and it isn’t likely the once-duped runner will fall for something like that again.

Senior Elizabeth Foley was eager to share the disappointing experience she had at a “singles-only” mud run when asked if she had any sketchy 5K experiences.

“All of the guys were taken!” Foley explained indignantly. “The surge of couples running happily in the mud enveloped us poor, single souls just searching for a lifelong partner.”

Senior and active member of UM’s Running Club, Kaite O’Reilly, provided tips that she’s

Diva’s 5K • Miami • A glam race just for the girls.

Think glitter, tiaras and a lotta pink!

• www.runlikeadiva.com/ Events/miami.htm

learned throughout her extensive racing career.

“A good race has a reasonably priced registration and is well-organized,” the running veteran explained. “It is timed, has awards for age-group winners and provides some kind of food or water afterward.”

Essentially, if you paid big bucks to enter a race and ended up prize-less and dehydrated, you’ve probably been scammed. So before you shell out any money, do a little research. Check the organization’s website, and read the reviews from past events. If the website boasts amazing races from past years but doesn’t provide any comments from past participants, be skeptical.

“My advice to non-runners is that if you want to start running, set up a training program so that you stick with it!” said O’Reilly. “For example, the UM Running Club has members of all skill levels. Set up a training time Some members race, some don’t. Running with people, whether in a race or just around campus, is always more fun than running by yourself.”

Rachel Gregory has successfully trained for over twenty triathlons and she will be competing in the Dolphins Cycling Challenge this year.

MORE THAN MUSCLE words_asmae fahmy. photo_raquel zaldivar. design_kacie nelson.

One does not simply wake up and decide to race in the Dolphins Cycling Challenge. Months of arduous training and preparation must be devoted in order to delve into this two-day ride that aims to raise money for cancer research at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Wake up. School. Homework. Train. Sleep.

Repeat. This is a basic rundown of senior Rachel Gregory’s daily routine. She refuses to allow indolence or fatigue interfere with her end goal: complete the full 170-mile two-day ride. The course begins at Sun Life stadium on Saturday, November 2 and continues to West Palm Beach, at which point riders stay the night and ride back to Miami the next day. The distance itself is enough to get one’s heart racing, but pair it with the scorching Florida heat and limited rest stops along the way, and one can understand why Gregory dedicates at least 18 hours to training each week.

“My days are very hectic because I am an athletic training student here at the University of Miami and that entails a lot of clinical hours along with going to class and training,” Gregory

said. “The hardest part of training is balancing my schedule. I have definitely gotten used to sleep deprivation.”

She focuses on alternating between swimming, biking, running and lifting; and as a member of Tricanes, the University of Miami’s triathlon team, she makes sure to attend their weekly practices as well. Rest days are a foreign concept as her weekends consist of early morning bike rides along Key Biscayne and Bayfront Park, which are sometimes coupled with a “brick”, or a 30 to 40 minute run. She’s also a former basketball player and channels her passion for the sport as another way to prepare for the race.

“Some of my friends think I’m crazy for waking up so early on the weekends to train but I see it as a way to relax my mind and push my body. I enjoy riding along the Rickenbacker Causeway watching the sunrise; it’s a feeling that you can’t really get from anything else,” Gregory said.

Even though she has successfully trained for over 20 triathlons, they have not

come without side effects. Last year, Gregory was diagnosed with Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome, an exercise-induced condition that triggers severe pain and disability.

“During one of my runs I started to feel an extreme amount of pressure in my lower left leg. At first I just thought it was shin splints or tendonitis and continued to run through the pain,” Gregory said. “After a while it began to get worse to the point where I could barely lift my foot up as I was running. I went to the training room and had one of the athletic trainers take a look at my leg. He evaluated me for a good 30 minutes and then immediately referred me to our team doctor and I had to get surgery one week later.”

After spending some time working through her injuries in physical therapy, Gregory was able to make a full recovery and get back on her bike.

It turned out to be a blessing for both herself and the cause. She raised $1,000 riding for DCC last year and plans to raise $1,500 this year. Knowing that she’s helping others is what propels this motivated triathlete to the finish line.

THE DAILY BREAKDOWN Wake up, make coffee, foam roll and stretch; get ready for bike ride

6AM

Bike ride at Key Biscayne Get home from ride, change, and go for a run

7AM

Shower, have a protein smoothie and eggs or oatmeal and pack healthy snacks for the day/ night

Help provide pre-practice treatments for Women’s Volleyball team at Hecht Athletic Center

9:30AM 10:30AM 11:30AM

Provide postpractice treatments

4:30PM

Drive downtown to the UM Medical Campus for Gross Anatomy class

Arrive home, shower, do homework and go to bed

5:30PM October 2013

10PM Distraction 13

Netflix’s terms & conditions warn customers not to reveal their passwords as a security control rather than an account sharing control.

MOOCHERS WELCOME words_luisa andonie. photo_rori kotch & kelly smith. design_gianna balasco.

Most people would not trust even their own mothers with their Amazon Prime account password. However, Netflix is too good not to share—which is probably why Netflix now advertises itself as a multi-user service, often showing images of families sitting in the living room couch. And unlike iTunes, which requires the purchase of an Apple TV to stream from your living room, Netflix is compatible with most devices. But how far is Netflix willing to let its users go in terms of sharing accounts?

As is to be expected, the company’s terms and conditions warn customers not to reveal their passwords if they want to maintain exclusive control. Netflix seems to do it more as a means to protect the privacy of the account holder, rather than to prevent account sharing.

“If you disclose your password to anyone or share your account and/or devices with other people, you take full responsibility for their actions,” Netflix states in its terms and conditions.

This mixed message is as contradictory as high school sex ed. courses that advocate

abstinence, only to also freely hand out condoms. Does Netflix condone sharing?

Or does it just want to wash its hands of the liability involved with the potential risk of identity theft and privacy violations when sharing a password?

According to Dr. Mitchell Shapiro, professor and Director of Honors Program for the School of Communication, Netflix is not suffering due to this sharing of accounts; in fact it could be benefiting.

“For Netflix the object right now is to get as many people in the habit of using the service,” Shapiro said. “Once people are in the habit of using it, they may find they can’t do without it.”

The downside to sharing is that it confuses the software’s algorithms, which hurts the firm’s ability to provide good recommendations to its subscribers. You might like WWII conspiracy thrillers but your roommate prefers French romantic comedies with a strong female lead.

These two extremes sound easy enough for a sophisticated software to separate, but how does

it account for your little sister watching Hannah Montana back home?

According to a post on Netflix’s blog, 75 percent of streaming hours are based on recommendations made through the company’s prized algorithm. To help improve the recommendations, Netflix recently implemented a member profile feature that allows you to keep track of members within your account. This feature will appeal to existing users who want more personalized content. It is also likely that the new feature will motivate existing users to share their accounts.

While this may seem like a side effect, it might actually be the goal.

“Before you can sell toothpaste, you’ve got to get people in the habit of brushing their teeth,” Shapiro explained.

In other words, Netflix is betting on the hopes that by satisfying more parasitical users, it will gain a loyal fan-base, which translates to paying customers in the future—an incredibly worthwhile goal.

CAN YOU SHARE? NETFLIX Each account can be registered on up to six “Netflix ready devices,” while the number of devices available for simultaneous viewing is limited.

14 Distraction In the Loop

HULU PLUS There’s no limit to the amount of devices that can be activated on a single account, but the streaming service only works on one device at a time.

AMAZON INSTANT VIDEO Each video can only be streamed on to one device at a time and purchased videos can be downloaded on up to two devices. Amazon puts no restrictions on the number of devices that can be tied to a single account.

HBO GO Sharing account information is prohibited in the terms of service and is illegal.

Streaming can only take place on one device at a time but can expand to three devices by registering sub-accounts.

A TEAM THAT

KILLS words_kristen spillane. photo_zach beeker. design_kylie wyman.

“Basically eat, sleep and volleyball, that’s all it is,” said senior captain right side Alex Johnson of Tallahassee, Fla. And she’s not kidding.

Wake up, grab some breakfast, go to class. Eat lunch, maybe get some homework done. Later on, spike a volleyball about 60 mph in a gymnasium packed with screaming fans.

Welcome to a day in a life of a UM volleyball player.

Johnson and her teammates, senior defensive specialist Ryan Shaffer, and junior middle blockers Alexis Mourning and Emani Sims, started the season on a high note after being named to the 2013 Preseason All-ACC team.

However, for Johnson and her teammates, there is no resting on their laurels.

“It’s obviously a great achievement we’ve all earned and it gives us a lot of confidence,” Johnson said. “But we still got to keep working hard and hopefully we’ll make the [All-ACC] team at the end of the season if we keep pushing ourselves.”

For Miami, the 2013 season is one of new beginnings and for some, a last chance to make their mark in UM history in their final season.

In his first head coaching position, Jose ‘Keno’ Gandara took the reins for the ‘Canes and is now aiming for both improvement and success.

Gandara is a former collegiate volleyball player at the University of California at Santa Barbara and has served as an assistant coach at the University of Washington, UNLV and UC Santa Barbara.

“He’s awesome, I couldn’t have asked for a better senior year, or a better coach, I’m really excited,” Shaffer said.

For Shaffer, Johnson and Mourning, winning the ACC and advancing to the NCAA tournament are on their wish list this season.

“I think it’s just helping these kids to become the best volleyball players that they can be and to have a great collegiate experience,” Gandara said. “And then along the way obviously if you invest you see the return – the ACC is on their sight and I believe that winning the ACC will prepare us for the national stage.”

In talking to players and coaches, it becomes evident that there is an undeniable sense of team before self, a mentality that starts with team leaders such as Sims.

When asked to name her ultimate personal goal, the junior responded: “To help my team out in as many ways as I possibly can, whether that be through hitting, blocking, being a leader, speaking up for the team, just any way I can help.” >> FACING FAMILIAR FOES With a difficult conference schedule ahead including No. 15 North Carolina and Duke, the team

Emani Sims and Misty Ma’a rise up for a block against LSU. unanimously anticipates the series against No. 17 Florida State as the biggest matchup of the year.

“Every time they beat us it’s for the ACC Championship, so it means the most,” Shaffer said.

The Hurricanes will first travel to Tallahassee on October 16 and play host to the Seminoles a few weeks later on November 13.

“We just try to be the best team we can be and it doesn’t matter who we play, where we play or when we play, we just play the way we play,” Gandara said. >>BUILDING A WINNER So what’s the secret to success?

According to Gandara, good team dynamic and strong leadership.

“The dynamic is great. These girls have been together for a couple years now, they know each other.

They understand their role. […] They know what they want,” Gandara said.

For the upperclassmen, leadership is a responsibility they embrace.

“I definitely want to be there to instruct them and tell them what to do because I feel like right now we’re not communicating that well,” said Mourning, of Arlington, Texas. “But I feel like if we step up and be a leader for the young ones, just voice our opinions in whatever we’re thinking it will really help a lot.”

Gandara knows as well as his players that there is much work to be done on the court to remain competitive in the ACC. “I think we’re a good serving team, we’re becoming a better team in the sense of managing our errors in our game, and we’re certainly not a team that’s going to overpower teams, but we have some physical players and we’re just trying to make the opponent play really well against us, and not beat ourselves,” Gandara said.

Nonetheless, Gandara knows that the overall experience of every student-athlete is just as important as the result on the court.

“You have to go through some growing pains,” Gandara said. “But I want to teach them along the way, and maybe save them some of the steps that I had to go through. I think understanding that learning is a process, and the quicker you learn the process, the more progress you make [is important].”

Fun Facts

HELP FROM ABOVE “We always say the Lord’s prayer before every game, we have a little gathering in the locker room, we have a little chant,” said Mourning.

GET PUMPED “We always have one song every year that we like,” said Mourning.

Shaffer, who admits to liking Miley Cyrus, added: “We like to listen to music really loud. We always have songs that get certain people really pumped.”

LOOSE LIPS SINK (CHAMPION)SHIPS Neither Mourning nor Johnson were willing to reveal this year’s song and Emani Sims even has her own routine: “I just listen to certain music and then I have a pregame ritual, it’s kind of a secret…”

October 2013

Distraction 15

Catching a perfect throw, Santana Moss evades a defender in the 1999 Gator Bowl against Georgia Tech.

The game resulted in a 28-13 ‘Cane victory.

END OF AN ERROR Every day at 4:30 p.m. in Miami one road will relentlessly torment South Floridian drivers to the point of insanity, U.S. 1. Poor layout, out-of-sync traffic lights and inconvenient, useless construction make U.S. 1 the absolute nightmare it is today. There are ways to fix this traffic disaster, but for whatever reason South Florida officials allow these problems to persist. Sounds kind of like a certain convoluted mistake-ridden system that has plagued college football since 1998. Enter the Bowl Championship Series, or BCS. Fortunately, after 15 years of mayhem, the BCS has reached its last hurrah. Years of drawnout formulas and national championship games marred by controversy are finally coming to an end. After this college football season, the BCS is no more and college football fans everywhere will breathe a collective sigh of relief.

Starting next year, college football will complete its move to a four-team playoff system. The four teams will be selected by a committee, much like the NCAA basketball tournament field, with the top seed playing the fourth seed and the second seed playing the third seed. The winners of those two games will meet for the national title game.

Having four teams compete will theoretically preserve the importance of the college football regular season, the best regular season in American sports, while avoiding the mind-boggling late-season situations created by the BCS. Scenarios like Kansas State during the 1998-99 season, when a third-ranked Kansas State team was left out of a BCS bowl game in

16 Distraction Sports

favor of fourth-ranked Ohio State and eighthranked Florida.

The travesties continued here in Miami.

In 2000, the Hurricanes were ranked second at the end of the season in both human polls. But the BCS decided Florida State should play in the national championship game despite their one loss to, yes, Miami. In 2003 there wasn’t even a unanimous number one team: LSU, USC and Oklahoma all ended the season with one loss. Unable to resolve the situation, LSU and USC were named co-champions in arguably the biggest BCS debacle ever.

These are not the only messes the BCS has created.

Ask Auburn, Kansas, Washington, Oklahoma State, Oregon, TCU and Georgia.

The system has been broken for years.

Anybody with two eyes and a general interest in college football can see that. The new playoff system, however, will in no way put a stop to the endless bickering. A selection committee could mean plenty of poor decisions - and that will never change - but a four-team playoff is

The BCS is no more and college football fans everywhere will breathe a collective sigh of relief.

words_will gretsky. photo_jc ridley. design_kylie wyman.

a solution to a broken system which at times anoints undeserving champions.

With the playoff, the teams will finally be able to decide. A fourth-ranked Boise State team can put up or shut up against a topranked Alabama. The ACC, Big 12 and hell, even the Big East (or whatever they’re calling themselves now) will actually have a say in the national championship picture instead of relying on their one half-decent team to make a run at the SEC. This bodes well for Miami. In the years of the BCS, it usually would take an unbeaten ACC team to even receive national championship consideration let alone an invitation (ask Virginia Tech about this one).

Now a one-loss ACC team with a schedule devoid of cupcakes (cough, cough, Florida State) can sneak into a four-team playoff.

And with less pressure on these teams to go unbeaten, maybe ACC, Big Ten or Pac 12 teams will take some more scheduling risks. Maybe there can be some more inter-conference games instead of beating up on the Georgia Poly Tech junior colleges of the world.

This year will most likely end with a one-loss SEC team somehow leapfrogging an unbeaten Oregon despite the fact that the Ducks just scored another touchdown while you were reading this story. It will be a glorious swan song for a computer system that has pissed off more southerners than Obama and when the bickering ends and the dust settles, college football will begin a new and improved era where the teams, not a computer, decide the champion.

O T E D I U G E V I T I N I F E THE D

Y R O L G E M A N K NIC ACC EDITION n_rachel watkins. na balasco. desig

an ey. illustration_gi words_patrick ril

llo, Pitt! How do you do, the Atlantic Coast Conference (He We looked Due to some recent additions to nickname debate once and for all.

C’s AC the tle set to e tim was it ive process to Syracuse?), we felt highly scientific and wildly object a as ed crib des be y onl can at e taken at all 13 teams in wh fight songs and “other” factors wer ts, sco ma , ory hist , ors col ool Sch determine a winner. the rankings below. into consideration to come up with to join the ACC in football it can be on our list. As for ides Side note: Once Notre Dame dec t further ado, here it is: hou Wit e! anc Maryland: Good ridd October 2013

Distraction 17

GOOD JOB, GOOD EFFORT

10 FLORIDA STATE SEMINOLES WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING

13 SYRACUSE ORANGE

Oh my, what a mess. First off, the school’s first colors were pink and pea green and shortly thereafter rose pink and azure blue, both decidedly more original than the plain orange that was later adopted. But it gets worse. In the 1920’s Syracuse had Vita the Goat as their mascot and, believe it or not, it was all downhill from there. What followed were the Saltine Warrior (pretty offensive and based on a hoax), a Roman-style gladiator who was laughed and booed off the field, followed by proposals that included such winners as a troll, a superman-like figure and – drum-roll please – a man in an orange tuxedo. Then in 1984 Sports Illustrated stepped in to “help” SU find a mascot. Their suggestions included: an insurance agent in an orange cowboy outfit and blue mask (can’t make this stuff up), a gnat-like figure in orange sweats with Elton John glasses and an incandescent wig (no really, this happened) and finally The Orange. Fortunately for ‘Cuse, and whatever dignity it had left, they chose The Orange. (Who would’ve thought that would be the least ridiculous option?) Of course there are no oranges in upstate New York and no, Orangemen doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue either, but hey at least they didn’t have to resort to insurance agents or gnats.

12 CLEMSON TIGERS

We’re fairly certain that there are no wild tigers to be found in South Carolina. So that’s strike one. After a little digging (and by “digging” we mean “googling” of course) it became apparent that Clemson adopted the tiger as a mascot because their football coach in 1896 liked Princeton and thought it would be neat to steal their nickname. Strike two. Orange and purple is one of the worst color schemes in the ACC. A trip to their website almost gave us a seizure. Strike three; you’re out.

11 VIRGINIA TECH HOKIES

Question: What the heck is a Hokie? Answer: It’s like one of those fillers we make up when we sing a song and don’t know the lyrics. No really, that’s what it is. It is the first line to a cheer that was conceived by a student in 1896 to go with the school’s then-shortened name of VPI. (Get this: The guy even won five full dollars as a prize. Then again back in 1896 that was probably enough to retire.) Here’s the masterpiece: Hoki, Hoki, Hoki, Hy. Techs, Techs, V.P.I. Sola-Rex, Sola-Rah. Polytechs - Vir-gin-ia.

Rae, Ri, V.P.I. Why they didn’t choose the Virginia Tech Sola-Rex’s, we will never understand. Oh well.

18 Distraction Sports

Let’s put it this way: If you have to defend your “mascot” and nickname to the NCAA, it’s probably not a good sign. While Florida’s Seminole tribes have officially sanctioned the nickname and mascot Chief Osceola, it is questionable as to how appropriate the usage of Native American imagery for sports in the 21st century really is. Other highlights from Tallahassee: the first time FSU wore its garnet and gold colors they lost to Stetson (Haha!) and when the student body voted on a nickname in 1947 “Cracker” was an option. No, seriously.

9 VIRGINIA CAVALIERS

Meh. It seems not even the school itself is clear what their nickname should be with “Wahoos” and “Hoos” also being used as monikers. Don’t waste your time looking for a great backstory with those. Rival baseball fans supposedly started calling UVA players that in the 1890s. (Don’t worry, we have no idea what a “wahoo” is supposed to be either.) Their colors, just like their nickname, leave us lukewarm at best.

OF NORTH CAROLINA 8 UNIVERSITY TAR HEELS

Even though it’s definitely original, we’re not crazy about it. A Tar Heel is basically a synonym for a North Carolinian. The term originated in the civil war Battle of Murfreesboro. Yadayada John S. Preston yadayada 60th regiment of North Carolinzzzzzzzzzz…

Sorry nodded off there for a second. Where were we? Oh yeah, it started off as a derogatory term no less. Bonus points for choosing a nickname that refers to all inhabitants of the state, thereby claiming it as their own (mas macho).

CRÈME DE LA CRÈME

3 GEORGIA TECH YELLOW JACKETS

What a fabulous nickname! Georgia Tech scores an 8.75 on our originality scale. Contrary to popular belief, the nickname has nothing to do with hornets, but was an expression to describe Tech students and first appeared in the Atlanta Constitution in 1905.

(Yay history!) The white and gold is solid, their mascot “Buzz” is one of the better ones in college sports and their Ramblin’ Wreck is pretty darn sweet. (Who doesn’t enjoy seeing a 1930 Ford Cabriolet Sport Coupe barge onto a field packed to the brim with cheerleaders? Exactly.) Bonus points for a great fight song; highlights include: references to drinking whiskey clear, a barrel of rum with 3,000 pounds of sugar – because why not – and of course a dig at Georgia.

NOW WE’RE TALKING

7 BOSTON COLLEGE EAGLES

It’s a strong name if not overly original. But BC does receive extra points for having America’s oldest college fight song and even more points for reintroducing a live bald eagle as a mascot at games. ‘Murrica!

6 NORTH CAROLINA STATE WOLFPACK

NC State scores very high on the originality scale – they could’ve simply gone with wolves, but in a power move went with the whole pack. As the story goes, a disgruntled football fan wrote in the school paper in 1921 that the football team acted like a wolfpack. Nicknames before that include Farmer & Mechanics, the Aggies, the Techs and the Red Terrors - which would’ve obviously earned them first place on this list had they chosen it. We don’t know what mascot head Lee Corso would put on, but it would be awesome.

5 PITTSBURGH PANTHERS

The university gives the following reasons for choosing the Panther as a mascot. One, the panther was a fearsome animal native to the area. Two, historically it was considered noble. Three, the happy accident of alliteration. Four, the panther’s coloring matches the old gold in Pitt’s blue-and-gold colors. And five, no other college or university had a panther mascot at the time. Here is our take: First off, Pennsylvania’s last panther was killed in 1874 so saying it’s “native to the area” is definitely a stretch. The last time anyone saw a panther in Pennsylvania Ulysses S. Grant was residing in the White House, but we still think it’s a pretty badass animal. We really dig the colors and, yes, appreciate the alliteration (although we think “happy accident” sounds decidedly dirty). Ergo: fifth place.

2 WAKE FOREST DEMON DEACONS

First of all, you have the always awesome alliteration. Second, it was first used in the school paper after a major beat down of Duke (then Trinity), which everyone – and we think we speak for all of America here – is all in favor of. The first Demon Deacon rode onto the field on a Carolina ram, dressed in a top hat, and with an umbrella in hand. We love it, but have so many questions: Could you get a ram that easily in 1941? If so, how would one go about acquiring one? Where can we get one now? Our heads are spinning.) Other highlights include: Demon Deacon mascots climbing goalposts and riding on unicycles. (Unicycles? Yes, unicycles!) The only reason Wake Forest didn’t take home the win is their weak color scheme. Sorry Wake Forest, the black and gold is just not doing it for us.

1 MIAMI HURRICANES

We tried. We really did. But the ‘Canes just have the best nickname in the ACC. The colors are fantastic. The orange, green and white just naturally go together. The Ibis is one of the smartest mascot choices in college sports. (“Last bird to leave before a storm, first …” ah you know the deal.) The “U” is probably one of the most recognizable symbols in sports and the nickname makes perfect sense. Sorry, we’re not sorry.

4 DUKE BLUE DEVILS

Ahhh yes, America’s anti-sweetheart. Their nickname is derived from a group of French soldiers during World War I which were nicknamed “les Diables Bleus” because of their blue uniforms, flowing capes and jaunty berets. They won accolades for their courage but couldn’t do much else to alter the outcome of the war. (Shocking, we know.) At any rate, what a perfect backstory for Duke’s nickname! After all, the only thing America hates more than Duke is France.

October 2013

Distraction 19

This season, fall into sleek lines, bold details and heavy accents. Don’t be afraid to try new trends and be as daring as ever with leather, blazers and bustiers.

photo_kelly smith. photo assistant_karli evans. style_gabrielle mottaz. style assistants_ allison baer and marissa bell.

20 Distraction Fashion

models_ taylor ashmore, max griffin and misty ma’a hair and makeup_monica bishop and anne grossman. design_megan mccrink.

On Misty: One Piece, Monc Boutique. Blazer; BCBG, BCBG Stores. Necklaces; Blush Boutique. Booties; Model’s Own. On Taylor: Suit; Hugo Boss, Hugo Boss Stores.

Shirt; Model’s Own. Tie; Hugo Boss, Hugo Boss Stores.

October 2013

Distraction 21

22 Distraction Fashion

SLEEK LINES

On Misty: One Piece; American Apparel, American Apparel Stores. Track Pants; The Hanger, Blush Boutique. Belt; Blush Boutique. Cuff; Forever 21, Forever 21 Stores. On Taylor: Suit; Hugo Boss, Hugo Boss Stores. Dress Shirt; Model’s Own. Tie; Hugo Boss, Hugo Boss Stores. On Max: Suit; Joseph Aboud, Nordstrom. Dress Shirt; Model’s Own. Tie; Model’s Own.

October 2013

Distraction 23

24 Distraction Fashion

BLACK MYSTIQUE Left On Misty:

Dress; Olivaciou, The Dressing Room.

Tights; Pretty Polly, Nordstrom. Shoes; Model’s Own. Hat; Nordstrom Brand, Nordstrom. Bracelets; BCBG, BCBG Stores.

Right On Misty: Bustier; Proenza Schouler, Saks Fifth Avenue. Skirt; Leith, Nordstrom.

Shoes; Model’s Own. Necklace; Nordstrom Brand, Nordstrom.

October 2013

Distraction 25

Miami

FALL FASHION IN

words_vivian braga. photo_kelly smith. design_megan mccrink.

ADAPTATION #1:

FLORAL PRINTS & FALL STRIPES Mixing prints has become one of this fall’s fashion highlights. Mix lively floral prints with stripes in similar color tones. Focus on prints in black and white or cold, solid colors like green, blue or brown. If you’re looking to adapt these pieces to warm weather, look for these prints on belted high-wasted skirts, trousers, blouses and crop tops. Be careful not to overdo it - playing too much with colors isn’t trendy! To accomplish this look, be sure that one of the pieces in your outfit has a more discrete hue.

Mirtha Fadul, second year law student, considers Olivia Palermo to be one of her style icons.

26 Distraction Fashion

Clockwise: Abigail Maroon, second year law student, shops at Madewell and Forever 21. She works at American Airlines Arena so she can dress more casually. Stephanie Khouri, third year law student, sports her brown leather backpack that fits in any season. Orianna Cirigliano, Junior, wears her sneaker wedges around campus, a rollover trend from last season that continues to be in style.

words_gabrielle mottaz.

It used to be that mustaches were only found on porn stars or dads.

Today, that’s not quite the case.

Whether it’s a pencil ‘stache or a chin curtain, facial hair seems to be all the rage. The way you wear your facial feathers is a testament to what kind of man you are. Maybe you’re a hipster rocking a “Fu Manchu”, or perhaps you’re a bad boy sporting some good old-fashioned scruff.

With all the new and improved styles, it’s getting hard to keep up. Here’s the run down of what’s hot (and what’s not):

THE HANDLE BAR

This classic display of facial hair is appropriate for artists who are crazy, talented, or have an evil plan up their sleeves.

ADAPTATION #2:

BOOTIES & MAXI SKIRTS

This style allows you to look hot without sweltering in the sun. You’re dressing lightly, but at the same time exuding a stylish, sophisticated or even laid-back look. Wear maxi skirts in dark shades like black, burgundy and orange or classic fall patterns like animal and military prints. To finish the look, try pairing the skirt with a cropped well-fitted knit top that goes with classic leather boots.

ADAPTATION #3

OVERSIZED SWEATERS & DENIM CUTOFFS

THE CLASSIC SCRUFF

Let’s be honest, everyone loves a little scruff. It screams “bad boy with a sweet side.”

THE SOUL PATCH

If you’re a recording artist with a lot of feelings, a soul patch is always the way to go.

THE SHORT BEARD

This season’s fall trend focuses on large textured sweaters with prints like mirror images, dots, cartoons, stripes and bright neon colors; making this piece a must have for every girl in Miami.

Pair your sweater with a pair of high-waisted denim cut-offs, whether it be with spikes, skulls or destroyed denim. Since the weather is still warm though, the key is to include one bright item and one dark item, so the outfit won’t look too heavy.

This look is only for the manliest of men. Not just anyone can pull it off.

So make sure you are able to rock it before you wear it.

ADAPTATION #4:

THE MUTTON CHOP

BLAZERS WITH TAILORED SHORTS

Blazers and tailored shorts are essential pieces to create a versatile, top-notch outfit for this year’s fall fashionista. For tailored shorts, pick a high-waisted pair and use a belt, add leather details and animal prints to enhance the look. Keep an eye out for blazers in neutral colors (black, gray and beige) and classic prints (stripes and floral designs). Since you’ll be wearing this outfit in Miami, search for these items in either silk or other lightweight fabrics.

The Mutton Chop is rarely acceptable. Everyone should avoid this look at all costs.

October 2013

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words_nicole vila. photo_bo hu, rori kotch, kristi townsend and raquel zaldivar. design and typography_ivana cruz.

Each year, top graduating students from every high school in Miami choose to attend the University of Miami. The question inevitably arises, “Why did you stay?” The answer: “Why not?”

This is Miami. The Magic City. The 305. The Gateway to the Americas. This is home and we are not done experiencing it.

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iami has witnessed a major shift in the past 10 years. There was a sudden artistic and cultural awakening as well as a desire to make the city cleaner and cooler.

Neighborhoods that used to be too dangerous to even drive through are now home to our favorite local bars.

But while this is an ever-changing city, it has some long-lasting traits that make it unique. One characteristic that has remained constant is the cultural impact Miami’s citizens have on its way of life. Name a country on the world map and, it’s safe to say, someone who once lived there, now lives here. Walk into certain parts of town and English is no longer the primary language. This is what makes the Magic City so magical: talk to any person you see and you’ll be transported to another time, another place, another culture.

So yes, the Miami lifestyle does include partying and sunbathing, but there is so much more. UM and Coral Gables are just a tiny part of this diverse city. In fact, Coral Gables is the dream, the suburb of choice so many aspire to. We dare you, the new residents of Miami, to go out and explore the many gems located in South Florida.

Fans of fashion should drive up to Bal Harbour, the South’s capital of high couture shops. Visit Midtown just to say you saw this area before its complete gentrification.

Go to parts of the beach where many natives learned to swim before we could even walk. Have a picnic where many a lazy Sunday were spent. To many, Miami is paradise; to those of us who were raised here, it’s just our backyard.

There are tons of tourist guidebooks and must-see attractions lists, but you are not a tourist. As a student at UM, this is now your home; you’re a resident of Miami and it is time you started to experience it like one.

Here are the keys to our city.

4

FOOD

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NORMAN BROTHERS’ MARKET

If you get a rush going into Whole Foods, multiply that by 10. At this market, you’ll find jars of delicious jellies and spreads, locally sourced fruits and veggies, homemade breads, organic meats, as well as other appetizing treats. Food risk-takers will find fruits and vegetables they never even knew existed from around the globe. 7621 SW 87th Ave., Miami, Fla. 33173; 305-274-9363; www. normanbrothers.com

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PINCHO MAN

If you ever wondered what Miami high school students ate after a late night of partying, look no further than Pincho Man.

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you must accompany with tostada (toasted Cuban bread with butter) and café con leche (Cuban coffee and milk). The best breakfast deal is the unlimited buffet with an assortment of just about anything any plump Cuban man has ever craved. This meal will only set you back $9, which illustrates the golden rule of eating Cuban food: you don’t need to spend a lot of money.

8650 Bird Road, Miami, Fla. 33155; 305- 553-8383; www.lacarreta.com

Pinchos are shish kebabs, but the menu also features hot dogs and burgers with messy toppings. After over 10 years in business, people still drive around with “I heart Pincho Man” bumper stickers. Usually located in Doral off of 58th street, this food truck is open from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday and only accepts cash. Is it the best food truck in Miami? Probably not, but it’s a classic. Call 305-318-5784 for location

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LA CARRETA

La Carreta is where you go if you’re looking for a good, Cuban meal.

Although their dinner menu is phenomenal, some of their best dishes are served for breakfast. Come here for croquetas, which

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BIG PINK

As the name suggests, this restaurant is pink and the portions are big. Conveniently located near South Beach, this is a great lunch spot after a day at the beach. Appetizers worth a try are the brie skillet for cheese fans and the nachos for food fans.

And if large plates do not

Boater’s Grill has only outdoor seating, which is perfect for taking in the salty air.

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LOCATIONS

AMERICAN AIRLINES ARENA

The AAA is most famous for its resident team, the reigning champions of the NBA. Although watching the Heat play in their home court is a valid reason to visit the arena, many of us have been going to the AAA for years to see our favorite musicians perform. The spacious arena is perfect for big name performers like Madonna, U2, Beyonce and Coldplay.

Upcoming shows are Drake (Nov. 5), Macklemore and Ryan Lewis (Nov. 24) and Kanye West (Nov. 29).

601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Fla. 33132; 786-777-1000; www.aaarena.com

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MIAMI FREEDOM TOWER

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VIZCAYA

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TROPICAL PARK

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RICKENBACKER CAUSEWAY

Think of the Freedom Tower as Miami’s own Statue of Liberty. Located in Downtown, this landmark is the architectural black sheep amongst the high rises and skyscrapers. It originally served as the printing facility of The Miami News in the 1920s. In the 60s, as thousands of Cuban exiles fled the Caribbean, the Freedom Tower served as the processing and medical facilities for the immigrants.

Today it serves as a cultural and educational center for Miami-Dade College. This unique building certainly represents the unique qualities of freedom, acceptance and opportunity in Miami. 600 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, Fla. 33132; 305-237-7700

intimidate you, order the TV Dinner: an assortment of comfort foods that vary constantly. It’s a good thing the tables are all connected so you can share with the people next to you and make new friends (true story). 157 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, Fla.; 305-532-4700

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BOATER’S GRILL

Boater’s Grill is the type of restaurant that truly allows you to enjoy all that Miami has to offer. Located right along No Name Harbor, many patrons dock their boats a mere 50 feet from the restaurant entrance.

The menu features various seafood plates including whole-fried fish, shrimp ceviche and seafood paella.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, 1200 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne, Fla. 33149; 305-361-0080

Bay. This is a great challenge for runners of all experience, plus the views are pretty spectacular.

Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, Fla. 33149

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BILL BAGGS CAPE FLORIDA STATE PARK AND LIGHTHOUSE

Going to Nikki Beach as a family was never a thing.

Instead, locals headed over to the many other beaches in South Florida like Hollywood, Hallandale and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State beach for generations.

Located in Key Biscayne, Crandon Park is the perfect location to lie on the sand, swim in the ocean and play some waterside sports without the hassle of crowds. Located right on the beach is the lighthouse, aka El Farito or the most common fourth grade field trip. Built in 1825, the lighthouse is the oldest building in Miami. It is open to the public from Thursday to Monday so you can climb all 109 steps to the top for an alternate view. 1200 S Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne, Fla. 33149

James Deering constructed this house as a winter home in the early 20th century. Nowadays, it serves as a museum thousands of tourists flock to every year for artistic and historical sightseeing.

Locally, it is considered the perfect landscape for hundreds of photo shoots every year. If you take professional portraits with a local photographer, chances are you will visit this beautiful setting.

Quinceaneras and brides alike have been visiting Vizcaya to document major life moments for several generations. You don’t need professional portraits in a garden? No worries. Students are admitted into the museum for $10 with a valid ID. Grab your camera anyways, and keep a lookout for local models in white dresses. 3251 Sourg Miami Ave., Miami, Fla. 33129; 305-250-9133; www. vizcaya.org No childhood was complete without attending at least one birthday party at Tropical Park. Located just four miles from campus, this 275-acre park has trails for biking and jogging as well as four lakes for paddle boating, freshwater fishing and sun tanning.

There are also soccer, softball, football fields, tennis courts and a two-acre dog park. If physical activity is not your thing, grab a book and pack a picnic for a perfect lazy Sunday. 7900 Bird Rd., Miami, Fla 33155; 305-226-8316 The Rickenbacker Causeway’s main purpose is to connect the mainland to the islands of Key Biscayne and Virginia Key. However, it is one of the best running spots in all of Miami. Crossing the causeway by car, you will see runners at all times of the day taking on the 5.4 mile bridge over Biscayne

6 The October Political Issue 2013

Distraction 31

AS TOLD BY

JANA CARRERO UM alumna and local fashion blogger, Jana Carrero - aka OJ AND CIGS offers her views on what it means to live in Miami Were you to ask a non-Miami native what Miami means to them, they would probably say never-ending parties, nightclubs and neon lights on South Beach. Not me. Miami has quickly become my second home and it means so much more than that.

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STORES

BAL HARBOUR SHOPS

New York has 5th Ave. LA has Rodeo Drive. We have Bal Harbour. Unless you are willing to dish out quite a bit of cash, visiting this exclusive, semi-outdoor mall is like taking a walk through a fashion museum.

Only the top designer boutiques are found here such as Chanel, Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Oscar de la Renta, Van Cleef and Arpels – just to name a few. If you are planning on visiting, dress the part of a serious shopper because jean shorts and a t-shirt just won’t cut it. 655 96th Street, Bal Harbour, Fla. 33154; 305-866-0311; balharbourshops.com

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MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT

What happens when Bal Harbour becomes too stuffy and there’s a new, much trendier neighborhood in town? Upscale designer shops start appearing in the Miami Design District, that’s what. Not too long ago, the Design District was home to several expensive and artistic home furniture stores.

Now, it houses boutiques such as Celine, Marni, Kenzo and Christian Louboutin. If you can only visit one store, however, make your way to Louis Vuitton with its standout graffiti walls and homey, safari chic interiors.

NE 2nd Ave, Miami, Fla. 33137;

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SAWGRASS MILLS OUTLET MALL

Outlet malls are great for guilt-less shopping because you buy everything at a ridiculous discount. Sawgrass (we’re on a first name basis) is a mega outlet mall located in

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Sunrise. On one side, there are stores such as Ralph Lauren, J.Crew, Nine West and Gap. The newer, ritzier half of the mall boasts a newly refurbished Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and designer outlets such as Prada, Gucci and Barneys Co-Op. Sure it’s last season’s items, but we’ll keep your secret. 12801 W Sunrise Blvd., Sunrise, Fla. 33323; 954-4513901; www.simon.com/mall/sawgrass-mills

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AVENTURA MALL

If Dadeland, Merrick Park and Sunset Mall hooked up and had a baby, it would be Aventura Mall. If an expansive two-story Forever 21 is not quite your taste, maybe you’ll prefer the two-story Louis Vuitton Maison, one of the largest in North America.

Aventura boasts six department stores and several shops exclusive to this mall, such as Lebron James’s UNKNWN. Surely you, your friends, your lover and your parents will all find something to buy. 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, Fla. 33180; 305-935-1110; www. aventuramall.com

5

C. MADELIENE’S

Here, you will not find Chanel for $5.

Instead, you will find an impeccably curated collection of sophisticated vintage. This museum store is organized by decade, with racks upon racks of fashion history (some of C. Madeleine’s merchandise dates back 100 years). The best part has to be the Chanel boutique. Still not convinced? Vogue magazine called it “Miami’s Best Kept Secret”. 13702 Biscayne Blvd., North Miami Beach, Fla. 33181; 305-945-7770; www.cmadeleines.com

After leaving Puerto Rico to attend the University of Miami back in 2003, I relished in my independence. I loved being away from home in this beautifully all-toofamiliar tropical weather. Four years later, bachelor’s degree in hand, I moved to New York City to further my studies and work in fashion. Today, I find myself drawn back to the Magic City and surrounded by so many changes.

Miami has evolved. It is vibrant, alive, eclectic and full of creative energy. When I attended the University of Miami, I lived on campus all four years because, in retrospect, it was convenient. I felt safe and used the pool 24/7. But nowadays, I find myself exploring something different every weekend, like dining in the Design District or driving out to Homestead to check out the fruit markets and the sunflower fields.

Then there’s Lincoln Road, which is perfect for people watching and outdoor shopping.

If I’m on a budget (and feeling adventurous) I go to Hialeah’s Flamingo Plaza, take in all the madness and dig out some awesome treasures. But if you don’t have the patience for that, Miami’s local shops and emerging designers are sure to please.

Need a beach day? I head to North Miami Beach or Key Biscayne. And what about street art? Wynwood boasts one of the world’s largest outdoor street art collections (Art Basel Miami, hello?!) and is a huge source of inspiration for me. I’m also a huge music junkie and the under-the-radar Miami nightlife scene is always thriving with places like Wood Tavern, Gramps and Grand Central.

It’s safe to say, I never leave the house without my camera in tow because most of my blog, OJ AND CIGS, has to do with capturing what this beautiful city has to offer, and doing it in style.

ACTIVITIES

1

ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER

In 2006, Miami finally got its own state-of-theart performance center, which is now one of the largest in the U.S. The expansive theaters consist of two architectural masterpieces separated by Biscayne Boulevard: the Ziff Ballet Opera House and the Knight Concert Hall. In seven years, the theater has hosted top national performances such as “Slava’s Snow Show”, “Wicked”, “Spring Awakening”, “RENT” and “Jersey Boys”. Upcoming performances include “We Will Rock You” and Miami City Ballet’s: “The Nutcracker.” 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, Fla. 33132; www.arshtcenter.org

2

ZOO MIAMI

It seems natural to think Miami would have an amazing aquarium rather than a wildlife zoo, but this is far from the truth. The zoo, located deep in Kendall, is the only tropical zoo in the U.S. A little over one square mile, there are nine exhibits that house all sorts of animals including elephants, hyenas, gorillas and flamingos. The giraffes are one of the best exhibits, where you can feed them yourself. Once inside, you really notice just how vast the

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zoo is so rent the bicycles available at the entrance as the best way to get around. And if drinking at the zoo seems like a fun activity, look out for Brew at the Zoo every spring. 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, Fla. 33177; 305-251-0400; www.miamimetrozoo.com

3

MARLINS BALL PARK

4

SUN LIFE STADIUM

Before the Marlins got their own ballpark in 2012, they shared with the Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium, transforming a football field into a baseball diamond every season. Now, the Marlins have their own home, and a really nice one at that. It has a retractable roof, a bar run by The Clevelander and a perfectly tacky home run celebration sculpture – all too perfect for Miami. Any Miami local, fan or not, should visit this ballpark at least once. 501 NW 16 Ave., Miami, Fla. 33125; 305-480-1300 Before we went to football games as Hurricanes, we attended Dolphins’ games in Sun Life Stadium. Granted, the name has changed several times. Tailgating as a kid with the family may not have been as epic as it is now, but at least it was memorable. If you were born in Miami you know that the Dolphins won the Super Bowl in 1972 and are the only team to have a perfect season. We love Dan Marino and hate Nick Saban. Regardless of their recent record, we still cheer them on.

Get your tickets for some Sunday Funday football. 2269 NW 199th St,. Miami Gardens, Fla. 33056; 305-943-8000; www. sunlifestadium.com

The Samburu Giraffe Feeding Station at Zoo Miami opens everyday allows visitors to feed a giraffe and its 14-inch tongue some lettuce for a small fee.

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DARK THE BAR

This no fuss bar goes well with its simple name. The Bar features a menu with several favorite domestic and imported beers as well as wine and liquor with daily drink specials. But beyond typical bar drinks, there is also an assortment of tasty food.

Best of all, it has a dive bar feel, so order a brew and some fries and hang out by the bar all night.

172 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables, Fla. 33134; 305-4422730; www.gablesthebar.com

2

THE FOXHOLE

3

FIFTY ULTRA LOUNGE

If daily happy hour and guns on the wall are your type of thing, then enter the Foxhole. They are open daily from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. Plus the Miami New Times named it Best New Bar in 2012. Even though it is located in Miami Beach, there are no velvet ropes or flashy entrances. Instead, it has a classy dive bar feel with jukebox music and vintage arcade games.

Don’t let the sketchy exterior fool you, Once you’re in, you are bound to have fun. Scout’s honor.

1218 14th Court, Miami Beach Fla. 33139; 305-5343511; www.foxholebar.com

The Viceroy is the swanky hotel in Brickell with the giant Philippe Starck face statues lining the ground floor. Surprisingly, there is a club located fifty floors above. Getting upstairs is an experience in itself as you take a one-stop elevator with scantily clad clubbers. Once you arrive, the only thing that matters is the spectacular view of the city visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows or on the pool deck. But just like any Miami club, the drinks don’t come cheap. 485 Brickell Ave., 50th Floor of Viceroy Miami, Miami, FLa. 33131; 305-503-4417

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Distraction 33

NOW WHAT DO I DO WITH MY

BUTT?

words_rachel kliger. photo_karli evans and melissa mallin. design_erin meagher.

We’ve all grown up with it: that familiar red circle with the line passing through encompassing a cigarette, which has been an integral part of our elementary school curriculum. Now that forbidden circle appears again all over the UM campus, although not as glib and intimidating.

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October 2013

Distraction 35

ACCORDING TO TOBACCOFREE CAMPUS.ORG, 99% OF SMOKERS BEGIN smoking by age 26, making college campuses

a critical time for tobacco-use prevention and cessation efforts. In an effort to protect young adults from this addiction, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) created the Tobacco-Free College Campus Initiative (TFCCI). Since its inception in 2012, the campaign has encouraged hundreds of college campuses nationwide to ban smoking on campus.

If you haven’t heard - and many people actually haven’t - on August 1, 2013 the University of Miami joined more than 1,100 smoke-free college campuses. Smoke-free means there are no designated smoking areas on campus and the act of smoking is now prohibited on all property owned by the University of Miami Coral Gables campus.

So what does this mean for smokers, the occasional smokers, social smokers and secondhand bystanders alike?

“It was a three-phase approach,” said Gilbert Arias, assistant vice president of student affairs. “Phase one was a designated smoke

WHERE Students can smoke on non-UM owned streets and sidewalks. This includes all along Ponce, leading around Doctor’s Hospital, continuing on Pisano Ave., Campo Sano Ave., San Amaro Dr. (the roads in front of the UV and frat houses) and all roads in between the UV buildings.

free campus in 2011. Phase two was reducing those areas by half in 2012. However, during those two years, we began advertising all the resources students have in order to quit. And by 2013, the third phase was in effect: a 100 percemt smoke-free campus.”

With every new policy comes some opposition and criticism. This gradual approach, with an emphasis on smoking cessation, did not please every student.

Junior Collin Lee, an occasional smoker, said he was irked when he heard of the new policy.

“I’m paying tuition for this school so I have the right to smoke if I want, I don’t think it’ll work because nothing is going to stop a smoker from smoking a cigarette,” he said.

Even though such a policy seems to some like an administrative decision, the “Breathe Freely” campaign was student-led.

“The initial idea was brought up to student government by students years ago and they worked with the student affairs office to assess the climate of the campus about smoking. We found that a majority did support a smoke-free campus,” said student body President Bhumi Patel.

This majority was determined by a campus-wide student survey issued last

year. It compiled over 2,000 participants from all sectors of the Coral Gables campus: undergraduate, graduate, and law school students; 10 percent of those identified as being a smoker.

“The results tell you that 63 percent prefer a smoke-free campus, meaning the remaining 37 percent did not, or preferred designated smoking areas. Everyone interprets this in a different way, but we wanted to be fair. The administrators didn’t vote so [the new policy] was all, in a sense, led by the students because it was for the students,” Arias said.

The results of this survey inevitably led to the formation of a smoke-free campus committee comprised of 15 students, Human Resources representatives and Student Affairs representatives all with the goal of identifying the health and safety issues of the UM community.

“It’s [prohibiting smoking] a health issue.

More and more research shows the dangers of smoking. Even if the number of smokers are going down, more and more people deal with secondhand smoke. We’re trying to make sure we have a healthy and enjoyable campus,” Patel said.

With the qualms and scrutiny that every policy transition experiences, at the very least, the “Breathe Freely” campaign can be seen as an educational and healthful move for us ‘Canes. “Free” being the debatable word.

“The survey didn’t include all of the student body. It’s anti-democratic in every sense. [UM administrators] should have left it to designated areas,” said senior M Can Oguzsimsaroglu. “People still smoke and now that there aren’t any ashtrays, there’s cigarette butts all over campus. If the school is trying to be environmentally conscious, then they should ban cars on campus as well because they pollute more than cigarettes do.”

He makes an unlikely, yet valid point: Is

CAN YOU SMOKE Map Key = areas off campus where students can smoke SA

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LAKE OSCEOLA

PONCE DE LEON BOULEVARD

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI CAMPUS

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this policy really taking effect?

“I do think the information is out there and that [the policy] is for sure helping to clean up the air quality. We’re moving forward with what the students really want,” said Virginia Perez, the program director of the BeSmokeFree Program.

The program was implemented a couple of months ago, and no one expected the smoke to vanish overnight.

“I don’t think [the policy] is going to do a whole lot. No one who smokes regularly on campus is going to stop. As for air quality, if you’re thinking more broadly, I don’t think we’re making a dent in the air quality of the U.S. or the world,” said Lee.

IT WILL TAKE MORE THAN just signs and banners to make UM a truly

100% smoke-free campus. According to Arias, education, awareness and enforcement will nip campus smoking in the butt. “[The smoke-free policy] is more of an educational tool in that colleges want to educate student about what’s right and wrong. We want to make sure students are aware that smoking isn’t good for you. Colleges are also publicizing smoke-free cessation resources and we also feel it’s very important to send a message like ‘Hey, it’s a smoke-free campus now and here is what you can do to quit,’” Arias said.

For third and fourth-year students, this new education isn’t in their curriculum, let alone wasn’t what they signed up for as freshmen. Pre-Vet senior Vittoria Di Giacomo has recently decided to quit smoking.

“To get in good shape and for how much I used to smoke, about a pack per week, I should have stopped a long time ago. But I didn’t even know UM had a program for that,” she said.

As for the younger ‘Canes, who can say that they attended a smoke-free college for all four years, the “Breathe Freely” campaign appeared all over orientation week.

“I got emails before I got to school saying the campus was smoke-free and when I arrived there were posters everywhere, flyers in our check-in folders and it was mentioned a lot throughout orientation,” said undeclared freshman Shira Cohen.

UM is a home away from home. It’s where new students live, eat, sleep, walk and, most importantly, breathe.

“I’m glad we’re a smoke-free campus, especially transitioning to the dorms. I don’t really enjoy the smell and I just ignore them, but a lot of my friends smoke and I see people smoking all the time. I don’t know if the policy is really working, but it can’t hurt,” said freshman Sarah Hatoum.

So how far do we go in enforcing the smoke-free policy? Do we start searching dorm rooms for cigarette packs, reporting multiple students daily, or simply turn the other way?

“As with any law in this country, there will

An anonymous student sits on a bench behind the library and enjoyed an afternoon smoke.

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Distraction 37

“IF THEY WANT TO SMOKE, LET THEM. WE’RE ALL ADULTS.”

38 Distraction Main Event

be violators and if and when you see it, remind them that we are a smoke-free campus. If they continue to smoke, they could be reported to the Dean of Students. As for faculty, they could be reported to the Human Resource Department,” explained Arias.

The policy is not meant to punish anyone.

The end goal is to provide a healthier campus, so a kindly reminder is all it takes.

“I would ask people to kindly put away their cigarette if I saw someone smoking, and I’ve don’t it in the past. The whole idea of smoke-free is that it relies on the UM community to enforce and work together to better out campus. We didn’t want police officers around,” said Patel.

But easier said than done. Lee admitted he’d give a smoker a “thumps-up” if he saw one. Di Giacomo said she’d do “absolutely nothing. If they want to smoke, then let them.

We’re all adults.” M Can Oguzsimsaroglu, who admits he’s been caught many times smoking on campus by faculty members, says “They just tell me to put out my cigarette. If it’s a student telling me, I don’t do anything. If it’s a professor, I do it out of respect, but then light up again because the conversation makes me want to smoke after.”

“Aren’t we supposed to call the cops?”

Elijah Kirkland-Andrews, Freshman

“Initially, I don’t think twice. But then I tell them to put that ish out.”

Liz Ionescu, Junior

AT THIS POINT, WE HAVE another issue keeping the cigarette buds out of

the bushes and the air clear as blue. Even with the informational campaign and the nonthreatening means of enforcement, smoking is not one of those things you can rip off like a Band-Aid. To many students, it’s a full-blown, can’t-go-a-day-without, do-it-as-a-stress-relief addiction.

“It’s easy for a non-smoker to say ‘stop smoking.’ People don’t understand other people’s addictions. I’m not advocating smoking, but when you’re addicted, it affects your studies and judgment,” said senior Abdullah Al Awadi.

Even the occasional smoker often lights up on campus as a stress relief. (Remember how popular the area between Richter and Starbucks was for smoking?). Luckily for those who need and want, UM provides a free smoking cessation program called BeSmokeFree.

Program Director Virginia Perez, who is certified for tobacco cessation, explains how times are different.

“I see some people in the program who are in their 50s and when they first started smoking, the information on how many toxic chemicals they’re inhaling wasn’t there; they didn’t

know how addictive it was. They thought the cool guys smoke. Now is a new era and we know how toxic it is, so help is out there,” she said.

The BeSmokeFree program offers six weeks of classes, support groups and free patches available to UM students and faculty on both the Miller and Coral Gables campuses.

“I know they had programs,” said Lee. “But I don’t think I’m going to quit. I don’t smoke that much in the first place, but even so I like it every now and then and it’s a stress relief during finals week, you know?”

We do. It may be hard to imagine a campus without one single smoker, but let us paint a more lucid picture: a close-knit community that strives to promote the health and happiness of all its members in the most positive and effective way where each year offers a new opportunity to do so.

In a Dialogue letter from President E. Shalala sent out to the entire UM community on Aug.1, 2013 she states, “The new school year is a time of optimism and renewal. This year our hopes for the coming semester includes something we can all be thankful for – a safer and healthier campus.”

Whether you’re a smoker, non-smoker, used-to-be smoker or just a complacent onlooker, let’s all take a deep breath.

WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU SEE SOMEONE SMOKING? According to the UM Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, “Smoke-Free Ambassadors, faculty, staff and students are encouraged to directly and politely inform those unaware of the policy or remind those in disregard of it. If this effort is unsuccessful, the individual in violation of this policy may be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions as defined by the University policy.” Any form of smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is included in this policy.

This, and all student rights and responsibilities can be found at www.umiami.edu/srr The BeSmokeFree Program offers free UM-AHEC Quit Smoking Now classes at the following locations: Medical Wellness Center: Medical Campus Tuesday - 4:30pm - 5:15pm (45 Min) Thursday - 11:00am - 12:00pm (60 Min) Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center: Gables Campus Wednesday - 12:30pm - 1:30pm (60 Min) Wednesday - 4:30pm - 5:15pm (45 Min)

October 2013

Distraction 39

No MONEY, No Problems... (just a little more work) words_kayla lott. photo_robert bennet, holly bensur, michael gutierrez and rori kotch. design_kacie nelson.

The University of Miami has its reputations. Aside from our rigorous academics, highly ranked sports teams and, needless to say, nightlife, UM is also known for its high cost of attendance.

Tuition can add up to about $60,000 a year. For the students receiving scholarships, grants or help from their parents, attending the best college in Florida doesn’t seem like such a financial heartache. For others, that is not the case.

40 Distraction Main Event

MATHEW VAUTRAIN Senior

If you had the option to go to college and have your tuition completely paid for with no outstanding worries, would you? Senior and mechanical engineering major Mathew Vautrain didn’t.

“I joined the Navy right out of high school.

I wanted to pay my own way through college and wanted those experiences I’d get in the Navy like maturing and seeing more of the world,” Vautrain said.

He also admits that his parents would have helped him out with the cost of college. They do so for his younger siblings. It was his choice to join the Navy.

“Being financially independent is a source of pride for me. My parents pay for my sibling’s schools but I just didn’t want that for myself. I was told before I enlisted that my parents would help me out, but I turned that down. So now I get to use the post 9/11 G.I. to pay a portion of my tuition,” Vautrain explained.

For the first three years after he was discharged, Vautrian was in the Navy Reserve, meaning the government could call him back into active duty at any time.

“I still had to abide by all the rules and regulations incase I did get reactivated, like staying physically fit, keeping a high GPA, attending class regularly and staying away from illegal substances. These are the requirements that the Deptartment of Veteran Affairs imposed so I could keep my benefits,” Vautrain said.

Like any employed adult, Vautrain must work hard for the money that he earns. All that hard work and drive has paid off here at the U. “When I started at UM, I didn’t know any other veterans, or anyone in the area for that matter. After my first semester, the Veteran Student Organization was created and it was nice to find a group of people on campus that were the same age, had the same mind set and similar life experiences that a veteran doesn’t find with your run-of-the-mill college student.

Now I’m the president of that organization and also the president of the Americans Society of Mechanical Engineers,” Vautrain said.

Leadership was natural to him after coming into college from the Navy.

“I think being in the military prior to college definitely benefited me. When you enter school, you’re a bit wiser and know what hard work is. My training program was a yearlong, with eight hours of class, five days a week, so I was very prepared for what I was going to experience in college. Not a lot of high school grads have that. There’s a lot of small things that make the military experience stand out from college,” Vautrain said.

After graduation in Dec. 2014, Vautrain ideally hopes to work for one of the major oil companies.

October 2013

Distraction 41

IAN CAHIR

Graduate Student Five classes, a part-time job and a few extracurricular activities seem like a large burden to bear for the average college kid. But for 22-year-old Ian Cahir, that life would be a breeze. Cahir graduated in May 2013 with a degree in exercise physiology and now works two full-time jobs; one at our very own Rathskeller and the other at Pole Star Physical Therapy.

Cahir’s undergraduate story is one that could debatably be featured as a television documentary or at least on something like “True Life: My Parents Don’t Support Me.”

42 Distraction Main Event

It starts like this. Cahir grew up in Rhode Island with a history of abusive parents. When college time came around, he wanted to get as far away as possible.

“I applied to UM, UCLA, pretty much all the opposite ends of Rhode Island,” he said.

He chose The U with a small scholarship and the promise of his grandparents paying for his housing. Unfortunately, they passed away before his sophomore year.

With the risk of having to abandon his education and go back to a hostile home, Cahir had to get serious. Thankfully, he got an RA position and was able to secure campus housing, but only for one year.

“After being an RA, I began working 25 to 40 hours a week with an 18 to 20-hour course load,” Cahir said. “I worked at the Rat,

the library and Carrabba’s all through college.

I thought I was screwed at first, but when I figured it all out, I was okay.”

Such rigid employment not only takes a toll on a student’s academic life, but it also makes it hard to take advantage of all the perks and nightlife Miami has to offer.

“It’s not that I don’t have friends, I’m just not big into going out anyway. I’m 22 years old and I work 15-hour days. Even during school, my friends and I would have potlucks and watch Pretty Little Liars. So I have fun, it’s just not the type of fun every other UM student has.

It’s more relaxed,” Cahir said.

Paying your own way through college should not be seen as a humble characteristic.

The sense of independence and “adult attitude” is not for everyone and some gasp at the thought of a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. entry-level job after four years of all-nighters in South Beach and sleeping in class.

“I definitely take pride in being so independent,” Cahir said. “I went to class, went to work and worked hard. And now, I work even harder. It’s embarrassing that some students’ parents pay for everything. As much as I work, I don’t flaunt it, but I definitely don’t mind sharing how much I do it.”

In Cahir’s eyes, it must be scary to see some students so unprepared for the real world.

Although, what constitutes the “real world” is different to everyone.

“I work seven days a week, I’m a fast learner, I know when to shut up, I know when to step up and back up. So when it comes to working, I can definitely do that,” Cahir explained. “It’s funny because all my friends are just now getting into 40-hour work weeks and crying themselves to sleep. I tell them, ‘make it to 70.’”

SAMEER CHAGANI Junior

For 21-year-old junior and political science and economics major Sameer Chagani, the drive to the best institution in Florida came with a few sacrifices and a lot of hard work. He first attended FAU and Broward College for a year, then decided to transfer to The U, a school not only with a higher educational ranking, but a higher tuition as well. Without money flowing in from his family and with just a few grants, Sameer had to carry this move on his own shoulders.

“I have been a marketing director for a private design firm while at school here.

Currently, I’m a banking relationship advisor and I work to increase revenue from retail banking. I am a team leader in business development. It would take most people five to seven years to get where I am today,” Sameer said.

He also used to work on marketing for

SONDRA-KAY KNEEN Senior

Not everyone goes to college straight out of high school. Some, like 26-year-old SondraKay “Sandi” Kneen, join the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Not everyone joins the USCG because they didn’t get accepted or never wanted to go to college either. Some, like Sandi, didn’t have many higher education options.

“I joined the USCG because it was an opportunity to travel and my parents couldn’t afford to send me to college, so I knew the military would pay for it,” she said.

Sandi enlisted in the USCG when she was 17 and has been in duty for the last nine years.

‘The military offers a program called ‘Advanced Education’ to one person a year.

I’ve applied twice and I finally got it in 2013.

I can attend any university that accepts me the military pays a portion of my tuition, the rest comes from a G.I. Bill. I’m still active now meaning I get pay and housing; I just don’t have to be on site or in uniform,” explained Kheen.

This in no way means Kheen is on vacation.

“I still have to constantly check in with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs to make sure all my ducks are in a row incase they mess up and the money doesn’t come through. It’s not an easy thing to do, especially when you’re still trying to manage being active,” she said.

To remain active and be able to return to the USCG after graduation, active duty service members must stay up to date on their weapons and medical qualifications.

political campaigns, which took his normal school day late into the night, sometimes until 3 or 4 in the morning. Not to mention, Sameer is a commuter student traveling more than 100 miles a day, costing him $400-500 a month just to make it to campus. When all of your expenses are solely your own, you take every expenditure into consideration.

So where does school factor into this equation, let alone parties and nights out?

“I have yet to go to a UM party,” Sameer explained. “And school is strenuous. I lead a life that literally has no breaks. It’s like driving a car 100 miles per hour and you can’t stop.”

But this drive that Sameer posseses is innate.

“I’m meeting deadlines on both fronts: work and school. It’s created a large detriment to my life, but I know I can do it because someone did it before me. My father was an immigrant. He used to work three jobs, slept in his car, learn English and put himself through school,” he said.

Fortunately Sameer has very understanding professors.

“They are a lot more flexible with me and my deadlines. They are perhaps one of the

reasons that I love the University of Miami.

They have a genuine concern for me to succeed, and that takes a lot of weight off my shoulders,” he said.

However, it’s not all grim for the life of this mostly-employed college kid. As long as you feel that what you’re doing will make you succeed, then you’re hard work becomes less of a chore.

“I feel that even those that are fortunate to be well-off should work because when you get to the real world, it’s not hard, but it’s very demanding,” Sameer explained. “I’m definitely more prepared and I have what most people don’t: experience. The difference between those students and me is those long nights. Those long nights, whether you’re in an office or bussing tables, will persevere because they build character and make you a better person. Some people don’t know there’s a whole world out there, but when you do get that revelation, it will give you such a great appreciation for what you have at the University of Miami.”

“I still have to know how to save someone’s life, my EMT training and know how to use a gun. You have to stay current on your training on top of school. I also want to become a chief when I go back to the military, so I have to study for that too,” said Sandi.”

Obviously Kheen is no ordinary UM student. She was even on site for the earthquake in Haiti, hurricanes Sandy and Katrina the oil spill in the Gulf and much more.

“I’m a lot older than everyone else, so I’m not here to socialize and party. It’s definitely about education and taking the step I wasn’t able to do when I was younger,” she said.

But coming out of the military into college makes this cadet’s experience unlike any other.

“The Coast Guard is all I’ve done since I was 17, so not putting on a uniform everyday and not having everyone tell you what to do all the time is weird. Teachers are really lenient here and we can call them by their first names. I’m used to saying yes ‘ma’am,’ ‘yes sir.’

Everyone’s very laid back. Something very odd is that people walk on the grass; in boot camp, we’re not allowed to and it really bothers me. We just have different rules of living than I was accustomed to. I feel like the civilian world is chaos. So it’s hard to adjust but at the same time it’s a great experience,” Kheen said.

Kheen will graduate in May 2015 with degrees in English and public relations as she moves onto the next step in her life: becoming and officer for the USCG. October 2013

Distraction 43

WHAT IS YOUR

IDEAL

RATIO OF GIRLS TO GUYS?

SHAI SAVARIAU, JUNIOR Prefers "50/50 guys to girls because it keeps everything balanced."

ANNA UCHEOMUMU, SOPHOMORE

“You can’t have too many girls - girls be thirsty as f***!”

photos_karli evans. design_kacie nelson.

ADRIANA MOORELL, SENIOR Prefers 60/40 girls to guys, “it’s almost equal, there’s good interaction between guys and girls but it’s still a challenge in the dating aspect - they can’t all come at you.”

PASCAL KOUWENHOVEN, SENIOR

“I don’t like classes being sausage fests; I like to be the only guy in class, it’s easier to stand out.”

44 Distraction End Notes

WILLIAM CAYUSO, SOPHOMORE

“50/50 guys to girls; I prefer equality.”

HAMAD ALRAKHIS, SENIOR

DAVID MALDONADO, JUNIOR

Prefers 75/25 girls to guys because “the girls here are beautiful, I don’t mind seeing more and guys get more chances.”

Prefers 50/50 guys to girls because “it’s not too much of either, you have options for guy friends and lots of girls to choose from.”

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MFA IN INTERACTIVE MEDIA HTTP://INTERACTIVE.MIAMI.EDU l @UMINTERACTIVEINTERACTIVE