Issue 2, Vol. 62

highlights October 2021

GENERATION FAST-TRACK

IN THIS ISSUE COPYRIGHT AND MUSIC Page 16

ABANDONED PLACES IN MIAMI

Page 26

Issue 2, Volume 62 | Coral Gables SHS | 450 Bird Road, Coral Gables, FL 33146

h

highlights

Issue 2 Vol. 62 Aug 2021 Oct

What

is

your

opinion?

Te xt Text

Contents

editorial board features

Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Copy Editor Business Manager Social Media Manager Adviser Features News Opinion Sports The Scene Insight Online

4

news

staff writers

9

10

opinion

12

publication policy highlights highlights

highlights

sports highlights

19

20

the scene

highlights highlights

contributors

23 insight

2 preview

14

28

27

FALL FROLICS

Jumping Joyfully: On Nov. 17, the Gablettes dance team performed in their annual Fall Frolics show. Senior showcased their “Awake My Soul” ensemble.

Marta Rodriguez/ highlights

Smile and Pose:

performers that range from ages eight through nine executed their Greece Lightning number.

Sweetheart Send-off: Fall Frolics concluded ignated sweetheart Senior Jose Fernandez.

-

pictures 3 3pictures

Scene and screen at Gables

Creating movies and writing screenplays all of his adult life, teacher Gabriel Rodriguez’s success in festivals has led him to be recognized by major competitions.

Lapse (Horror) After being beaten within an inch of his life, Andrew wakes up in the hospital with a rare form of amnesia where he only remembers what caused his amnesia and nothing else.

BY MICAELA MONTERO, STAFF WRITER

B

ESIDES GABRIEL RODRIGUEZ’S day job as the new Theory of Knowledge and Creative Writing teacher at school, after hours his dedication shifts to brainstorming ideas and drafting plays as he is also a part-time screenwriter.

At just 10 years old, Rodriguez was entranced by the movie “Jurassic Park”, sparking a realization From then on, he has aspired to be involved with animatronics or screenwriting. He wanted to tell

A Thousand Words (Romantic Comedy) Desperate for a prom date, Nicholas goes to extremes to track down his mysterious dream girl that he saw in a photograph.

from other writers such as Wes Anderson (writer of “The Grand Budapest Hotel” and “Moonrise Kingdom”) and director Bong Joon-ho (Director for “Parasite”).

First studying at Florida International Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

Alongside the creative writing classes he took in highschool, he learned a lot about story structure and how to properly and effectively tell stories.

He also found inspiration and learned a lot from other writers’ works through people he came across during school. Overall, 40 screenplays and around 100 are in -progress. On some occasions he collaborated with other writers, but for the most part he’s worked alone.

Although Rodriguez has written quite a few works, his overall favorite is the screenplay titled “Ripper.” It is

4 features

Jack the Ripper. What story written by him in high school, evolved into an entire screenplay which took over

in Miami. Although he mostly writes horror, he has branched out by creating romantic comedies and action screenplays.

“It is the sense of monsters, blood and gore.

It’s about scaring you through anticipation. The anticipation is often scarier than the actual end result,” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez has a methodical process to write, he sets time out of his day to work on his screenplays to avoid losing motivation. When faced with obstacles, like writer’s block, he tries to stay consistent in his pace and how often he writes. Furthermore, he reads works of other authors or screenwriters and he rereads his own work for inspiration or guidance. Inspiration from other works is key to his process, as he watches many movies and reads a lot. Rodriguez’s current favorite movies are “Isle of Dogs” and “Parasite.”

He explained that the way the story was told in “Isle of Dogs” was well written and the cinematography was beautiful. In “Parasite,” he admires the suspense and the fast paced intelligent writing, it fascinated him.

Rodriguez is currently working on several screenplays, a few are horror, and he is currently

abriel Rodr

iguez

he has been working on for over six years. In the future he hopes to be a screenwriter full time.

Courte sy of G

Ripper (Historical Fiction/ Thriller) The n e v e r- b e f o r e told true story about the rookie cop from Scotland Yard and his hunt for the most elusive, gruesome, and brilliant Jack the Ripper.

This piece came in the top 15% of the Nicholls Fellowship, a competition for screenwriters created by the Academy Awards.

“It was really, really big for me, even though I didn’t win,” Rodriguez said. “Getting that kind of recognition from those people was huge for me.”

He detailed that his experience in college contributed to his inspiration and success in these competitions. Rodriguez was motivated and inspired by many of his teachers, as they served as role models and muses for his work and writing.

Rodriguez has also received other awardshis work. He was the winner of the L.A. Crime and

involved an extensive amount of research; where t h e r e w e r e gaps of

as a career, he advises aspiring screenwriters and those who critique their work, he believes it means that they simply are not the target audience. He encourages perseverance and persistence of your passion. h

THE FUNNIEST

_________ GABLES

FLORIDA

MAN HEADLINES

Gables man’s most famous headlines take over social media as Gables Man is recognized for his greatest achievements

BY CRISTEL CANTARERO, SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Gables man tries to evade dress code by cartwheeling away from Janet

Gables man throws tantrum after not receiving a parking decal

Gables man forgets to wear his ID and tries to avoid a possible detention by cartwheeling past security through the pavilion and up the stairs of the 9000 building.

Gables man runs around the school screaming and crying after he was unable to get a parking decal from Athletic Director, Louis Romero.

Gables man arrested after attempting ‘24 hour challenge’ in the auditorium

Gables man caught urinating in the coral lab

Gables man who aspires to become a YouTuber overnight attempted the recent 24 our challenge in the auditorium, but was caught by Gables staff.

Gables man was caught urinating in the school’s coral lab and blames his science teacher for not allowing him to use the restroom due to “disciplinary actions”.

Gables man cuts off his foot after accidentally stepping on the Dirigo

Gables man gets caught sleeping on Instagram, ruining his reputation

In fear that he will never graduate, Gables man cuts off his foot after he accidentally stepped on the Dirigo seal in front of the school and in the auditorium.

Gables man t h ro w s a tantrum when he is caught and exposed sleeping during his Spanish class on I n s t a g ra m , r u i n i n g h i s p u b l i c i m a g e .

Gables man gets CSI after wearing a Columbus sweater to school

Gables man bribes lunch staff with a musical performance for extra chicken tenders

When Gables man wears a sweater with the Christopher Columbus Explorers emblem, and is given CSI and yelled at by football coach, Aaron Miller.

Gables man dying from hunger during second lunch, choreographed a song and dance for the lunch staff which included teachers, administration and students. h

Let us know your funniest Gables man headline by submitting it on the @highlights instagram story!

features 5

Financers of tomorrow

Through the Academy of Finance, many of Gables’ teens are beginning to invest their money in the stock market.

BY GEORGIA RAU AND ALEXA OROZCO, STAFF WRITERS

A

QUESTION MANY ASK WHEN they reach adulthood is when and how they should begin to manage Finance (AOF) at Coral Gables Senior High

economic oppression, especially being that Millennials and Generation Z are predicted

management is because it can be considered

Whether just beginning their AOF education or close to

money

management

has

ht ig hl hi g

Medina,

/ au

Alec

R gia or Ge

Since then, he has continued his investment research and

s

about the topic and grow their investments in

As the school year begins, Medina is happy with how he has

monitoring apps, the news and mentorship so, he does not believe his investments Medina believes that it is always best to

been interested in investing and saving money, Medina approached the investing world

bolder decisions as he gains experience in the be at it when you really have more money to He has observed that electric vehicles are gaining traction, and predicts that in the

why Medina considers investing an important lesson to teach students, as doing so will have journey, Medina made sure to surveil his

6 features

term, gain internships and eventually

and the percentage loss, there was a lot more

“Typically, I now use indicators to trade, called a moving average convergence divergence (MACD) and relative strength

“

come so easy to him, Schulte learned how to overcome obstacles throughout his learning process, such as enduring the emotional part

IT TAKES TIME TO LEARN SOMETHING, SO THE YOUNGER YOU START, THE BETTER YOU’RE GOING TO BE AT IT WHEN YOU REALLY HAVE MORE MONEY TO PLAY WITH. ALFREDO BALLLLOVERA, TEACHER.

optimistic and consistent, while continuing to “I plan to achieve my goal by investing

h

Active investing is a strategy in which the investor aggressively buys and sells

Ale x

a co oz Or

/ highlights

helping him decide whether or not a trade is

HALL TALK

The highlights staff records what students are talking about during class sessions.

“Imagine a Christian ‘Finding Nemo’ called, ‘Finding Jesus’.”

“No one suffers from success more than Drake, the Ed Sheeran of rap.”

“I think I’m a hoarder-you are also a Leo sign. See the correlation? ”

“Drip so hard they call me leaky faucet.”

“We should play go go duck!- you mean duck duck goose?”

“Thinking about that recorder from 5th grade I never played again...”

features 7

News Review

BY MARCOS SNYDER, STAFF WRITER

In Brief

Drawing a Line Through Miami-Dade Districts Redistricting is taking place throughout Florida as the state has been granted one additional congressional district based on the 2020 Census data survey.

Districts will be redrawn, setting boundaries that will affect the outcomes of future lawmakers, allocations of funds and how the district will be represented.

This introduces challenges that will most likely affect minorities and low-funded communities, depending on how Florida lawmakers approach the task.

Coral Gables Receives Distinguished Budget Award The City of Coral Gables was awarded the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting on Aug. 25. This award focuses on local governments

Grace Rodriguez / highlights

TESTING THROUGH THE NIGHT: COVID-19 testing remains open 24 hours daily at Tropical Park.

A large part of the budget was allocated to transportation, public safety, physical environment and the general government, according to the city’s website.

Around-The-Clock COVID-19 Testing

oversees the Budget and Compliance Department for the city of Coral Gables.

On Aug. 27, Tropical Park announced an extension to its usual COVID-19 testing hours to run 24 hours daily. As Miami-Dade’s COVID-19 cases have decreased in numbers, having the Tropical Park testing site open around the clock grants an opportunity to those in need of a COVID-19 test to get tested at their own leisure.

“It is reasonable to allocate staff to stay at testing sites 24/7 to ensure that anyone can get tested no matter how tight their schedule is,” junior Liam Hernandez said.

This new addition emphasizes convenience in hopes of helping the Miami-Dade community stay safe and protected against the COVID-19 virus.

8

15

CHECK OUT OUR CONTENT PAGE Social Media in the Sports Industry Photo Courtesy of INews

December

December

Alma Mater Pep Rally

Mr. Coral Gables

Congrats, Cavs!

Congratulations to the girls’ varsity cross country team for placing advancing to the state competition.

Congratulations to the girls’ bowling team for receiving the title as the third best bowling team in the district.

8 news

20

December Winter Recess

EXTRA CONTENT AT @highlightscghs The Cavalier football team played against the South Miami Senior High Cobras on September 9, 2021.

Cristel Cantarero / highlights

Scan this code for more online content!

17

January

Teacher Planning Day

Missed past issues of highlights?

Visit

issuu.com/gableshighlights

Florida and the Delta Variant

As COVID-19 cases rise in numbers, Florida’s surge in infections may prove to be more dangerous than any other.

BY EMILY KARDJIAN, STAFF WRITER

T

HE DELTA VARIANT HAS continued to infect many in Florida, The pandemic has impacted healthcare causing high hospitalization and workers as early as March of 2020. Healthcare fatality rates averaging 10.92 deaths staff have reached levels of physical per hour from the week of August 23. and emotional exhaustion while treating First reported in the United States in March COVID-19 patients, leading to events such 2021, the Delta strain has impacted many. The as a staged walk-out, of which 75 doctors Delta strain is twice as contagious as previous from around South Florida participated in on COVID-19 variants, according to the Centers August 23, pleading for change. for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The reason for these pleas is that most of Although vaccinations against COVID-19 those hospitalized for COVID-19 are not continue to protect those who have them, vaccinated. According to the Miami Herald, breakthrough cases (instances where the of 93 new COVID-19 patients hospitalized vaccinated contract the virus) are possible and in Miami-Dade County on September 7, can contribute to the spread of the virus on a 86% of them had not received their vaccine. smaller scale.

In the county, 68.6% of “Even though I’m the population is fully vaccinated, I continue vaccinated as of the same to wear my mask and date.

“BOTH OF MY follow COVID-19 Despite Florida’s protocols because I can vaccination rates being GRANDMOTHERS still get infected and relatively average in HAVE AUTOIMMUNE spread it to someone comparison to other states, DISEASES, WHICH IS else,” says junior Lucía it still faced a spike in Torres-Mugica. cases that others have not.

THE MAIN REASON Florida has reached THAT I CARE SO MUCH This is partially due to several peaks of Florida having been spared ABOUT PROTECTING COVID-19 cases due to from increased cases in the spread of the Delta the winter months, unlike THEM.” variant, sending people other states.

LUCÍA to hospitals with fatality The New York Times TORRES-MUGICA, rates rising. According states that, due to Florida’s to data reported by the winter weather being JUNIOR Miami Herald, the state warm enough for outside reported an average of gatherings, it did not feel 325 daily deaths during the week of August the effects of surges many other states faced 23, followed by an increase to about 344 during the season. However, Florida’s hot during the week of September 1. summer weather has contributed to the recent Increased hospitalization rates seen in Florida spike in COVID-19 cases, as it has driven led to hospitals running out of oxygen supplies many indoors where the virus can spread beginning in late August. With oxygen tanks being crucial for ventilators, this shortage had previously protected the state in the winter leaves hospitals unprepared when taking care worsened conditions in the summer. of patients in critical conditions. This places The virus has impacted many jobs patients who are not infected with COVID-19 throughout the past year and a half. This has but who rely on ventilators or oxygen tanks at risk of not receiving one, due to the recent “When my father got COVID-19, my mother was the only form of income,” sophomore oxygen tanks.

“Many of my family members have gotten us as a family of four.”

[COVID-19] and have had long term side As COVID-19 and its variants, like Delta effects. Some family members in Honduras and the recent Omicron, continue to threat have sadly passed from it,” sophomore many, taking the necessary precautions to Linda Bohanan said. “Me and my immediate stay safe continues to be important in keeping family haven’t contracted the virus, but its people both safe and protected. h

“

quick facts

CDC-approved masks remain as one of the strongest protective defenses against the COVID-19 virus and its strains.

Individuals who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are likely to spread the virus for longer periods of time than the vaccinated.

One reason the Delta variant is able to spread quickly is due to low vaccination numbers in certain areas, with the Delta variant being more than twice as contagious as the original COVID-19 virus.

Source: Centers for Disease Control Grace Rodriguez / highlights

news 9

Miami-Dade Bus Driver Shortage

MDCPS’ busses are facing a shortage of drivers which leaves many students arriving late to school.

BY MANUEL ESPINOZA, STAFF WRITER

A

S BRICK-AND-MORTAR

in-person schooling this 2021-2022 school year, students and teachers alike in Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) share frustration of the ongoing issues in late attendance caused by a districtwide shortage of bus drivers.

What started as a national shortage of bus drivers has slowly made its way into MDCPS. It has reached a point where teachers see students trickling into class as late as thirty minutes after the bell has rung asa normality.

This has left students wondering if they will continue to rely on the school bus system or also continue to face issues because of this.

“I typically get to school with barely any on a slow day, I might get to school 5 to 10 minutes late which would become a problem.”

Sophomore Dominick Rodriguez said.

Through the beginning of the school year, Rodriguez, like many others, has used the district school bus system to arrive on campus.

Because of this disruption, there have been instances where buses would arrive later than 7:15 a.m., causing Rodriguez and students in classes.

While students and teachers alike face challenges overcoming certain obstacles caused by the shortage, there are also the bus drivers that face immense pressure to arrive at school on time. One reason for the shortage in bus drivers is that some former drivers had to seek other jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The chances of recruiting bus drivers having these kinds of setbacks can cause worries for parents and children.

As students and bus drivers have struggled due to this shortage, teachers are not spared “I haven’t had many students consistently late because of the buses so they have been

10 news

able to catch up when they do get to class. becoming an issue in the future,” teacher Megan Aridas said.

“

WE ARE TOLD TO HAVE BELL TO BELL INSTRUCTION AND TO MAKE THE MOST OF OUR TIME IN CLASS. STARTING AT 7:15 IS IMPORTANT FOR THE CLASSROOM ROUTINE AND TO BE ABLE TO TEACH EVERYTHING WE NEED TO DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR. MEGAN ARIDAS, INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) CHEMISTRY TEACHER Being an International Baccalaureate (IB) Chemistry instructor, the material she teaches is bound to be important for any student in her course, which is why no one can fall behind by a late bus. This shortage can cause a lot of concern for teachers , which is why issues of attendance or tardiness should be avoided. potential problems arise for teachers across the school. While Aridas is fortunate enough to have her students arrive on time and ready for class at 7:15 a.m., she is one of few lucky teachers. when tardy, there have been instances where

students struggle understanding the lesson of the day because of a late bus. However, there are students who are fortunate enough to lesson for the day.

“I usually arrive at school before I miss too much work, which I’m pretty grateful for.

I know that not many students who rely on the bus system can say the same. It’s pretty sad.”

Rodriguez said.

As much as MDCPS continues to hire replacement bus drivers, student to be impacted because of the ongoing bus issue. This leaves student attendance to be determined by whether they are lucky enough to have a bus arrive on time, or if they will be late for another day due to this shortage.

Despite these challenges, there are those trying their best to make this day-to-day task of transporting students to school less of a chore and more of a success. Even with the efforts made during these circumstances, the MDCPS bus drivers have been the focal point of concern.

Mirtica Nualla is a private bus driver and transports students who rely on the public school bus system to public schools around the county, including Gables.

“While the pandemic has affected many jobs, including those of bus drivers, I also believe that there are other important things to consider,” Nualla said. “It’s been a struggle for us drivers to handle this kind of stress that’s been placed on us because of this shortage.”

From the frustration of students and faculty members receiving or giving instruction during having to juggle multiple amounts of students to different schools, the issue is still at hand.

The bus driver shortage in MDCPS is starting to present itself as not only a problem, but an opportunity to create change. This situation is in mixed air and the future of the public school bus system has yet to come. h

Coral Gables Senior High and COVID-19

highlights offers an in-depth look at COVID-19 protocols at the school in an effort to protect students against the virus.

BY TIFFANY BEH, STAFF WRITER

A

S SOON AS MIAMI-DADE County Public Schools (MDCPS) announced for students to return to school for a physical school year, COVID-19 safety measures have been a concern for students, school personnel and Senior High (CGSH) has implemented numerous precautions in hopes of increasing safety this year.

According to Assistant Principal Jocelyn Figueroa, precautions taking place besides masks or face coverings include social distancing, hand sanitizer in classrooms, the use of seating charts, electric hand dryers in announcements regarding safe practices.

MDCPS Superintendent Alberto Carvalho announced that masks and face coverings would be optional across all institutions starting Nov. 9. However, areas such as hallways and staircases would continue to be periodically checked to make sure students do not spend their lunch periods indoors. This methodology forces students to enjoy their lunchtime outdoors, in areas of constant air ventilation, lowering the chances of spreading and contracting the virus.

In addition to these protocols, CGSH is using several sanitizing methods to disinfect any potential germs that could be spread amongst students and faculty. When entering a classroom, some teachers ask students to clean their desks with disinfectant wipes or cleaning

Marcos Snyder / highlights

sprays. Most, if not all classrooms have hand sanitizing stations in their rooms, so that students can routinely sanitize their hands.

Certain teachers, mostly located in the science wings, have sinks in their classroom, where students are asked to wash their hands with soap and water rather than use hand sanitizer.

“I have teachers who are strict with COVID-19 protocols, like Mrs. Phillips,” Freshman Naomi Galex said. “She makes sure kids wash their hands and she cleans the desks, which I think is really great and responsible.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are run at the two hours before and after students occupy the school.

Source: Miami-Dade County Public

have seating charts for every class period.

As a result, only those sitting near a student with their parent or guardian’s approval. if exposed to COVID-19 and are rather given

the option to do so. Seating charts allow teachers and schools to contact trace and keep “In general, the school and all its staff members are doing their best,” English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) assistant Karla Serrano said.

Quarantined students are expected to attend their classes remotely through Zoom, allowing them to keep up with their classes and assignments. However, learning online can be troublesome, as teachers have found it hard to pay attention to both students in their classroom and students attending class through Zoom. and I feel like it’s a lot harder to pay attention when you’re not there,” Galex said. “I feel like the teacher doesn’t give you the same attention that they usually give you in class.”

COVID-19 protocols like these have assisted families across the county. Teachers and staff work hard to emphasize the importance of safety precautions like masks and social distancing to students.

“I have to be a model; I try to encourage others to follow these guidelines because it It is impossible to guarantee that the virus does not spread at the school, however, Coral Gables Senior High School has implemented several safety and health precautions in an attempt to lower those chances and keep the school protected. h

news 11

STAFF-ED: Shorter days, longer gains

As high school becomes more rigorous, the long gonedays of early release feel like a much needed respite.

T

HE MODERN DAY EDUCATIonal system has undoubtedly be-

draining than ever before. Students are struggling to keep up with their work as the school day consumes most of their time.

The solution to this dilemma is simple: bringing back early release days that end between 12:30 and 1:00. With this change, students are able to experience a brief reprieve from their stressful schedules, giving them a chance to breathe.

Across the state, Florida high schools held early release on Wednesdays or Thursdays, with the purpose of giving students enough time to learn the material taught in class. This process was shortened to one day a month and was later completely discontinued during the 2019-2020 school year, due to the amount of school days lost from hurricanes like Michael the year prior, according to the Miami-Dade Public Schools (MDCPS) Twitter. The time away from school didn’t meet the amount of hours MDCPS students need in order to graduate.

However, it’s time early release days make a comeback. Aside from the amount of work given in class and at home, students striving for a higher education need to prepare

classes. If early release days return, DEH is able to spend more time on extracurricular activities with children, resulting in a more interactive learning environment.

Outside of school, many students participate in sports and clubs. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) frequently take on big projects and travel across the country to participate in state and national business competitions with other schools. Early release

Advanced Placement (AP) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). whether or not they can make it to the university of their preference. Students will undoubtfocus on their examinations.

In addition, students in specialized academies could also gain from the time off. Academies like Design, Education and Hospitality (DEH) focus on the education of young children while having to keep up with their core

Maria Jose Cestero/highlights

days would allow them to fully prepare for conventions and excursions without the obligation of missing class time.

Not only clubs, athletes have practices and games after school that can last until late at night. Clubs, athletics and extracurriculars instantly become more viable with just a few more hours of free time a week.

Logistically, giving the high school com-

munity one day off a month seems like the path to take. However, one day simply does not equate to the consistency of leaving school early once a week. Keeping those days off, while also having a shortened day each week, is the best choice.

Most students would agree that the daily monotony of their unchanging learning schedule affects them, and can often lead to stress University (NYU) research scientist, Noelle Leonard. As a large part of why students feel stressed out from school are the long days, the weekly time off is highly appreciated.

“I would take any extra free time, but it really feels like there is too little time to get things done at home, especially when you have things like clubs and sports or things to do outside of school,” junior Alejandro Garnier said.

The main obstacle in the way of early release is the hour requirement for students. If students are not in accordance with the graduation requirement, the schools they attend could lose funding as it is directly tied to student’s attendance, according to the Florida Department of Education (FDE).

The shortened days, as well as time off from hurricanes, could combine with frequent absences and potentially lead to defunding and the prevention of graduation. This would only affect said students who constantly miss school however, as the hour requirement for the county was made when early release was For all students free time at home seems almost like a luxury compared to middle school. Nowadays, even freshman and sophomore year is becoming demanding and students need spare time more than ever before.

A point should be made of shortening days for students’ sake. h

opposable thumbs

12 opinion

Classical Music

Friendsgiving

Uniform

“Beethoven walked so One Direction could run.”

-Nathalie Schwart Staff Writer

“Would be fun if I had friends.”

-Grace Rodriguez, News Editor

“We have to wear belts now?”

-Andrea Delgado, Staff Writer

The costly consequences of interventionism

It’s too irresponsible, it’s too unnecessary and it’s a waste of time.

The United States must stop its money-driven foreign intervention.

COMMENTARY BY SANTIAGO GIRALDO, STAFF WRITER

A

M E R I C A’ S reputation of being a just and civil nation is recognized on a global level. Highlighting the ideals of justice, liberty and the

actions of foreign intervention have proved these concepts wrong. Sprouting from a place of monetary greed, lobbying and the need for economic superiority, the U.S. must stop politically intervening in other countries.

For years, U.S. interference in foreign political disputes has been fueled by the military industrial complex, or the symbiotic relationship between American industries, the government and military. Industries within the country compel these sectors to intervene in merchandise for the military to buy.

As demonstrated by The Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Congress gave nies between 2001 and 2021.

America’s military and governmental industries is a primary reason why the U.S. seems so intent on meddling in other countries’ affairs. It’s not for the good of people, it’s for economic gain.

Yet, this industry relies on the money of the taxpayer, in other words, the American

people. The War on Terror, a military campaign meant to rid the world of terrorism, cost the taxpayer, according to CNBC, $6.4 trillion.

This money came directly from citizens who were forced to sponsor America’s imperialistic complex, with almost no visible outcome on the nation.

Such an abuse of power is perpetuated by the law named Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs), passed in 1957, 1991 and 2001.This resolution, which became a law in 2001 allows the president to carry out acts of war without a check from Congress.

This disconnect between the political agenda of the President and the people must end, as demonstrated by a AP-NORC poll where 62% of Americans do not believe the Relieving the burden on the country must be made priority over the patronage of the parasitic military industrial complex. These funds could easily be redirected to programs of universal childcare, medicare and free public college tuition. Not only social programs, the money could be funeled into border enprotection and energy independence.

“No, the president should not be able to declare war without approval,” sophomore and military sibling Mercedes James said.

“People make irrational decisions on a daily before it goes through. Just like checks and

balances.”

On the contrary, some see intervention as necessary, a means to an end, an aid to the spread of democracy. While in a perfect world that could be true, reality presents more of a viable path without results in mass murders in the name of war.

If used strategically, diplomacy saves gun or a bomb could. This is called preventive tions (UN) as diplomatic action taken before to de-escalate or prevent the worst possible outcome from coming into fruition.

This method of diplomacy has been used for election related violence prevention in countries like Kenya and Zimbabwe, countries that have sucessfully established democracies without the death of their people.

“Preventive diplomacy is good because it averts war,” IB history teacher Oscar de Armas said.

Throughout the course of this nation’s history, the population has been able to rally around issues like civil and voting rights to progress from its troublesome past.

The same can be done now in the rejection of interventionism and embracing of focusing on internal issues that pertain to the country domestically.

By doing so, the U.S. strengthens itself as a whole and is able to provide a stronger front to the rest of the world. h

students speak up

“

”

Lauren Noval, World History Teacher

”

INTERVENING CAUSES OTHER COUNTRIES TO HATE US.

”

Santiago Giraldo/highlights

INTERVENTIONISM IS NOT THE SOLUTION FOR THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES.

IF WE PUT MONEY TO THE SIDE, WE CAN RESOLVE CONFLICT DIPLOMATICALLY.

Abigail Felan, Senior

Pablo Miranda, Sophomore

“

“

opinion 13

TWO-VIEWS

ghts Maria Jose Cestero/highli

Free Speech Vs Political Correctness

Should people strive to please others, or stand their ground no matter how extreme?

14 opinion

COMMENTARY BY JUAN FAJARDO, STAFF WRITER

F

OR YEARS, people have looked to political correctness (PC) as an escape from criticism. Paradoxically, this restriction of speech does little to defeat hate. Instead, it propagates the idea that untruthful speech is better than public humiliation. Thus, freedom of speech must not be policed, rather used to disprove hateful rhetoric. After all, the best way to defeat unsubstantiated views is by exposure to better ones.

Freedom of speech has stood unequivocally against injustice throughout history, impacting lives in ways unattainable by PC. During the Vietnam War, dissident Muhammad Ali spoke out against the draft and was initially crucified by public opinion and sent to jail.

Nonetheless, his message was heard by millions, proving the world wrong through his words. If unpopular speech was removed, such protests against the status quo could never occur, stagnating society’s growth.

“Freedom of speech is more important to preserve because it is a great way to

give more power to the people and to escape tyranny,” sophomore Anthony Roles Fotso said.

The global working class would benefit immensely from speaking freely to better their working conditions.

Yet, labor trends indicate the opposite is happening. Shown by the International Trade Union Confederation’s (ITUC) Global Rights Index, restrictions on freedom of speech have increased in 2020, consequently restricting the working class’ rights to collective bargaining and unionization. When workers are able to speak freely, employers can better the work environment; avoiding violent, unecessary protests defending labor laws.

Not only this, the workers most affected are among the most marginalized: working men and women of color.

The United Nations (UN) affirms that these groups are systemically restrained from obtaining power and influence.

Workers are protected when they can speak freely.

Some argue that PC lessens the impact of hateful ideas, removing them from narratives entirely. However, a system confined by PC never truly changes

others’ harmful perspectives nor does it possess the ability to.

The Guardian’s report on the FBI’s 2020 hate crime statistic findings shows hate crimes increased by 42% since 2014.

Despite having noble intentions, restrictions on speech have minimal impact on keeping the public safe. PC hides the hateful, allowing it to go unchallenged until the public gets hurt.

Without a public forum for hate to be brought up by some and refuted by others, such hate won’t just disappear.

Instead, it will be confined to private circles among the hateful, until reaching a violent, physical tipping point against the public.

“The only way hate is going to be fixed is if it’s done at home within the family,” Advanced Placement teacher Aaron Miller said.

Freedom of speech’s ability to combat hate through education and discourse empowers people to speak out, exceeding the PC strategy of shunning and ostracizing. So, it can be gathered that a well-intentioned but ineffective PC should be abandoned, with critical freedom of speech taking its place. h

COMMENTARY BY CAROLINA CASTRO, STAFF WRITER

F

REEDOM OF SPEECH IS SEEN as one of the highest-held values mentioned in the United States Constitution. However, as times change and beliefs shift, so should people’s morals. Outwardly offensive opinions shouldn’t be protected under the excuse of a document written hundreds of years ago.

When the concept of free speech was created, it did not anticipate the creation of social media platforms. Many users, however, still seem to use the excuse of this right to defend their online hatred. If we were to restrict this “power,” so to speak, many incidents could be prevented, including the suicides that are 1.9 times more likely to occur among victims of cyberbullying, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI).

The Constitution was meant to defend the right to express opinions, not the right to verbally abuse others.

“We should be protecting the ones that are affected by the opinions [rather than those who hold them] because they’re the ones who are really in danger,” sophomore Daniel Campaneria said.

Following the recent Mahanoy Area School District v. B.L. Supreme Court case, in which cheerleader Brandi Levy was suspended for using vulgar language on her so-

cial media when referring to her school, the Supreme Court re-evaluated the extent to which freedom of speech protects students in an educational environment. Malintent, provocation and distress-causing actions all qualify as bullying in the eyes of schools, and they are all faced with repercussions that show up on students’ permanent records.

When political correctness is taken into account, people become more comfortable with sharing their thoughts, since fear of confrontation is left behind. A study conducted

by Cornell University found that when a politically correct environment was enforced upon a group of entrepreneurs of both sexes, it had made it easier for either sex to speak their minds in company. Conscious of being politically correct, everyone was able to comfortably share their opinion.

In addition, many equate political correctterm used to describe someone who is overly sensitive. Though many try to pass their insults off as “jokes,” it’s almost always anything but. Marginalized groups, such as the LGBTQ+ community, are frequent targets of only worsened this situation.

Approximately 20.7% of teens who committed suicide were bullied LGBTQ+ youths,

in comparison to 4.4% of their heterosexual peers, reported Dr. Kirsty A. Clark of Yale University.

It shouldn’t take the death of an individual in order for society to realize that having someone be penalized for derogatory comments should be in place.

“Words have consequences, and if something you said is blatantly wrong, there should said.

That one deserves jail time for what they say is an absurd concept, but it would be fair to have more serious repercussions than the ones that are currently enforced. Alerting someone’s place of work or education of their misbehavior is one way to promote caring or suspension, depending on the extent of said person’s comments, are also ways in which political correctness can be enforced.

While it may seem like classic liberal antics, trying to be politically correct and not offend others can prove to be very helpful. Once other people’s feelings are taken into account, ful, inclusive space can be achieved through through correctness. h politicalpolitical correctness.

opinion 15

Music copyright or copy-wrong?

L

ISTENING TO music is one of the few universal human experiences. The same eight notes have been used as the base of all musical demonstrations. This lack of variety has caused problems in the industry. Artists continuously sue each other for apparent copyright, a cycle that will, in reality, never stop past music.

When producing, artists use other creators’ music in their own unique way, a common process called sampling. A famous example of this would be Canadian rapper Drake inserting a part of “I’m Too Sexy’’ by Right Said Fred into his own song, “Way 2 Sexy.” In his song, sampling was notice-

able and added dynamicity to the creation of such a well liked, popular song.

Sampling is seen as a totally respectable decision to make in music, creating songs listeners. In addition, the greatest aspect of sampling is that all artists involved receive the credit they deserve, both in royalties and fame.

As different as songs can be from one another, things like the melody, a verse or a chorus will always share similarities.

Furthermore, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the human ear can only distinguish 330,000 frequencies, but only a fraction of those sounds are considered enjoyable enough to be music. Not all musical patterns are a song, no matter how unique they might be. pers like Kanye West or Kendrick Lamar

catchy, but there is no denying that these artists make what is accepted as good tunes.

Considering the longevity of music over human time, sounds are bound to be repeated or recycled, yet many treat this series of coincidences as blatant plagiarism.

“Music as a whole is just different ways of saying the same things, Music has been a part of the human race for so long that it’s inevitable melodies will repeat,” senior Gabriel Wagner said.

It is preposterous to argue that because music seems similar, it must have taken direct and conscious plagiarism from other melodies. Some songs naturally sound similar to when the now disbanded British boy band One Direction released their hit single, “Best Song Ever,” in 2013, people were quick to notice a resemblance to the song “Baba O’Riley’’ by The Who, released in 1971. The likeness between the songs sparked wars between their online fanbases.

The Who’s fan base was accusing One Direction of stealing the coincidental synth notes at the beginning of the song. Yet, a simple Who’s leader Pete Townsend states that that the boyband had used such similar notes.

Later on, the songwriter behind the One Direction’s song, Julian Bunetta, stated that he had no inspiration from Baba O’Riley.

“The chords I used and the chords they used are the same three chords we’ve all been using in basic pop music since Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran and Chuck Berry,” Pete Townsend said to Rolling Stone Magazine since Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran and Chuck

Maria Jose Cestero/highlights

16 opinion

M A R I A’ S MISCHIEF SELF COMMENTARY BY MARÍA JoSÉ CESTERO, OPINION EDITOR Berry,” Pete Townsend said to Rolling Stone Magazine.

Hollywood isn’t solitary in the prevalence of a single group of singers using similar notes, beats and writers to create their discography. The Korean-pop (K-pop) industry is divided by companies, inside of which art-

with other income.

According to Digital Music News, most cents per stream, meaning that artists can no longer earn their fortunes through normal means.

Instead, they see an opportunity in copyright lawsuits. In the past, musicians understood that all songs are connected, but in the 21st century artists are taking advantage of this by manipulating these small similarities

one being producers.

SM Entertainment Company is one of the largest and most infamous conglomerates in the industry, hosting the legendary producer Kenzie. Kenzie, whose legal name is Kim Paramore, the popular 2010’s band, Yeon-Jung, has credits managed to get royalties on songs by superstar from Olivia Rodrigo’s performers NCT 127, “good 4 u” single beRed Velvet and EXO. cause of its similar strucYet, what makes ture to their own single, these artists and their Misery Business. These music so appealing is exaggerated similarities how they add their own will only cause more and style and uniqueness more unnecessary drato the songs produced. mas in Hollywood.

Though they come from It can be said that similar producers and music is created to be resources, the songs take on a whole new personartists and style, and ality once on stage.

A large reason why enced by any past cremany recent top sinations. However, in some gles across nationwide genres, such as pop, buyGABRIEL WAGNER, charts sound like they ing songs after they have SENIOR have been cut from the already been written is same cloth is because a common occurrence. they have, or at least cut from the same Companies will buy ready-to-go music and minds. Songwriter Jack Antonoff’s legacy is expanded with his collaborations for major many artists. Dua Lipa’s “New Rules” was female artists. Antonoff’s magical touch can originally written for British girl group Little be seen in two drastically different singers, Mix. Taylor Swift and Lorde.

Though both artists are popular in muFor Swift he wrote “You Are In Love” sic, they have drastically different styles and for Lorde he wrote “Greenlight.” Though within the genre. “New Rules” wasn’t writnot many people make the connection, both ten for her, yet the song was what made Dua songs utilize the piano and pausing intros; a Lipa a household name. common effect of the songwriter’s presence.

Music is a cycle of creation, some that “I am a big fan of Taylor Swift, and if we have never known has been created and any of my songs are similar to hers, I would never called out, while others have taken nogive her or her songwriter credit,” senior Ella ticeable inspiration from past productions.

Londono said.

The battle for music copyright will soon be In the simplest way to put it, copyright revealed to be a prolonged unnecessary probattles have gone too far. In an age where cess to state a thing that most people know: streaming has become a nearly obsolete pay- no one has a completely original thought in music. h

“

ed. I dressed how I wanted, said what was on my mind and never cared what anyone thought.

These days, I look back in awe thinking about how I was ever that little girl. What caused my shift from that, to a teen that can’t even take pride in her own hard work because she is scared of being judged and criticized? Though there will never be one sole answer to that question, I have developed a theory.

People. As we grow up, we start noticing they way others act. What they’re wearing, doing and saying is suddently catapulted to the forefront of our brains. This phenomenon leads to one of the biggest problems in modern society: comparison.

We start pitting ourselves against others, picking apart ours lives for the things we ers had.

This longing is the change I see between now and who I used to be, but not in the way many think. I’m a teenage girl, I almost instictvely compare myself to others’ life paths. However, I came to realize I’m not the problem. I’ve never changed who I was to satisfy someone else’s tastes, someone else’s expectations of me, my dreams and my future. Then suddenly, it hit me. happy girl and automatically noticed the things they are missing in their own life.

People began to wield my strengths as a weapon agaisnt my character, feigning crejudge who I was and, foolishly, I believed them. yet I never even considered someone could be jealous of me. I never deemed myself special enough to be used as an independent variable in people’s lives, but I was and I am.

What I’m trying to conclude here is, or say. Nine times out of ten, they want to knock you from the pedestal you’re already on, so they can take your place. Be yourself and take note of the people who enourage your growth, instead of pray for your downfall. h

opinion 17

The gender equality law called Title IX was passed in hopes to achieve equal rights and opportunities in sports for all women COMMENTARY BY NATHALIE SCHWART, STAFF WRITER

S

E R E N A Wi l l i a m s , Candace Parker, Abby Wambach and Megan Rapinoe. For sports fans, these are all household names — but that might not have been the case without Title IX. Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits sexbased discrimination in any school that receives federal funding. It was written by two female members of the House of Representatives, Patsy Mink, a Democrat from Hawaii and Edith Green, a Democrat from Oregon and included in the 1972 Amendments to the Education Act. Since it became a law 50 years ago, Title IX revolutionized American athletics by requiring that girls receive the same opportunities to particas boys, according to tWhe New York Times. As a result, the United States now generates many of the world’s greatest female athletes. However, challenges to equality in sports still remain.

“I think it’s an important policy, but it’s sad that we need a law to give women equal rights in sports,” freshman girls varsity volleyball team member Celina Richardson said.

Title IX is a sweeping law that addresses gender equity in all aspects of education at schools that receive federal funding (such as support for reduced free lunch). While athletics are not girls in sports. According to the Online Masters Ohio website, since the law was established, female participation in high school sports has grown from less than 300,000 to a tremendous 3.5 million in the 2018-19 school year — an increase of over 1000%. Nationally, 43% of high school athletes are female. Here at the school, the proportion is even higher.

“Our school’s population is 50-50, so we are roughly 1,500 boys hts lig ero

“

I THINK IT’S AN IMPORTANT POLICY, BUT IT’S SAD THAT WE NEED A LAW TO GIVE WOMEN EQUAL RIGHTS IN SPORTS CELINA RICHARDSON, FRESHMAN teams tend to be larger, Coral Gables has more female sports teams to create balance. For example, this year there are 60 players on the football Participating in individual and team sports well. Some examples are improved health, reduced stress, increased social connections, and the values of teamwork and discipline, as stated in the website Athletic Scholarships. as they receive more government funding for athletic facilities (such as medical centers, training centers and locker rooms), tutoring and coaching staff, publicity and recruitment of and support for student athletes, as reported by the NCAA (National College Athletand schools are important building blocks for gender equity in sports and beyond.

At the high school level, Title IX ensures that talented female athletes can receive scholarships, which opens the door to higher

education and hopefully a debt-free graduation.

“I think that Title IX is a very important and underestimated,” freshman girls varsity cross country team member Priscilla Scullin said.

“Title IX has given us the strength, ability and opportunity to succeed just as much as men.”

While Title IX has been very successful in creating equal opportunities for female athletes, obstacles are still prevalent, one of which is attendance at games. As reported by the NCAA, in 2019, the total season attendance at the University of Miami men’s basketball games was 106,316 people. This is very disproportionate compared to the total season attendance at the University of Miami women’s basketball games of only 28,193 people.

Additionally, fewer women’s sports events to reach fans and build support. Perhaps due to the comparatively low attendance and popularity, equal pay also remains an ongoing concern for professional women athletes all over the world. The highest-paid player in the WNBA, Sue Bird, earns $221,450 per year, while the highest-paid NBA player, Steph Curry, gets a whopping $46 million per year.

The United States Women’s Soccer team, however, is taking a stand by suing the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) to demand the same pay as members of the men’s team. The documentary LFG (Let’s F*cking Go) follows these courageous women, as the soccer team takes on one of the biggest equal rights campaigns since Title IX. “Some day a woman’s goal will be worth as much as a man’s,” star forward Megan Rapinoe said.

Regardless of what happens with the lawsuit, Title IX has helped bring much needed attention and opportunity for women and girls to participate in sports. Although issues relating attendance and pay parity still need to be solved, this important law has altered the world of sports forever. h

igh

/h

lC

ste

Cri

ar ant

and1,500girls. Our athletic participation has to mirror that,” athletic director Louis A. Romero said.

Romero added that, because male sports

RUNNING TRACK: Freshman Maritza Varela (left) and sopho-

more Raciel Regojo (right) are pictured above running on the track

18 | sports

The Season Finale

Winning by a landslide, the girls’ varsity volleyball team defeated Felix Varela in a very anticipated game on senior night BY: CHIARA ABAD-SANCHEZ, STAFF WRITER

C

HANNELING THEIR ENERGY FROM previous wins, the Lady Cavaliers Varsity volleyball team continued this momentum and had a victorious senior night against Felix Varela Senior High School on Oct. 14.

Starting off strong, senior and co-captain stomped their feet, elevating the positive energy in the gym. Soon after, the Vipers blocked a hit, hoping to overcome their point disadvantage. However, clean passes and quick sets from players like co-captain Martina Ruiz allowed the Lady Cava-

The determination of the Cavaliers rose as they wanted to make the third set their last. Senior Valball with power. With incredible passes and sets

game of the season, or even of their lives for some demolishing the Vipers quickly in three total sets.

“The energy on the court left me laughing because of how excited everyone was and the support the girls had was just so awesome,” var-

ghts ighli

served as Varela was unable to secure the point, lead-

and it turned into screams and cheers of joy from

over the years.

They left the court with a smile on their face, enjoying this memorable bittersweet moment.

“Senior night was one of the best I’ve coached, I was very proud that they won in three sets for their last home game of the season,” De la Vega said. h

niors were

h uez/

Junior Avery Felix hit the fan favorite moment by spiking the ball, sending it furiously across the court and winning the point. The audience began to do a wave while hyping the Cavaliers up on the

from the fellow players in the team, they continued to dominate the set. Through exchanges of encouragement and cheers from the fans, the Cavaliers were able to remain focused with their only goal to set balls for their hitters to perfect their spikes and win points.

As the set moved on, the Cavaliers saw themselves one point away from victory. Suspense and

game of the season, the sespotlighted and awarded for all their contributions and dedication to the team

ig Rodr Marta

Followed by a short water break and game plans from coach Monica De la Vega, the second set began with the serve of the ball from the Vipers. The Lady Cavaliers began to show signs of struggles as sophomore Audrey Noval lost her balance while attempting to receive a serve but managed to save the ly recovered, executing clean passes and continuing

“

SENIOR NIGHT WAS ONE OF THE BEST I’VE EVERY COACHED; I WAS VERY PROUD THAT THEY WON IN THREE SETS FOR THEIR LAST HOME GAME OF THE SEASON MONICA DE LA VEGA, COACH

sity team manager freshman Melissa Sosa said.

The Cavs ended up completing their season with a record of 10-11. All the hardwork and hours they put into practice each week paid off and the team was overall very proud of the results they produced. After

Featured above is spiker Emma Hardie

SUCCESSIVE SPIKES: Mid-point, senior Valentina Bernal spikes the ball as Audrey Noval awaits a potential block from Felix Varela.

sports | 19

In their Natural Habitat

Senior Barbara Veiga and juniors Jon Trueba and Azuma Crowe all partake in sports where they must always be one

BY RAFAEL SANS, BUSINESS MANAGER

R

OWING, FISHING AND ROCK climbing are not typical hobbies for students at Coral Gables Senior High. However, for juniors Brendan Groff-Vazquez, Jon Trueba and Azuma Crowe,

it’s a major part of their lives. They make up a select few who take up the challenges of these outdoor activities to develop themselves into better individuals and to also make memories that will last for a lifetime. The rigor and

obstacles that these activities present are only for those who have a passion and will to keep moving forward with their endeavors. Each of these students has a story and advice to impart to others concerning their athletic ventures.

Rowing - Barbara Veiga Senior Barbara Veiga is a rower outside of Gables. Veiga was inspired to row by her

20 | sports

Br az

da

/ hi

gh

lig

ht

s

“

ROWING STRONG: Veiga, (front

of boat) rows a coxed four while in stroke seat.

nd

er

rowing is an enjoyable experience for all who take part in it.

“On my launch I take a guisher, lights, a whistle and tools,” Veiga’s coach Fabian Herrera said.

“Reminding the rowers to be careful and stay on the lookout for danger on the water is something that is repeated daily.”

Veiga encourages that one must be persistent in their pursuits in rowing. Like any sport, rowing requires dedication and practice on a consistent basis similar to what Veiga performs every week. Considering it is a team sport, rowers must work in unison to accomplish their objective. Anything one rower experiences, the others will experience to a similar degree. The amount of work one puts in will affect the results of the entire team. That is why it xa

times a week with her coach at Miami Rowing Club (MRC). Located in Key Biscayne, the facility provides opportune conditions for rowers as it is out by the water.

Veiga has had to push herself to the limit when out on the water, relying on teamwork and persistence to accomplish objectives when rowing that she has developed throughout her experience in the sport. Veiga rowed her farthest down the Miami River with other girls from different schools, where she had to exhibit these collaborative qualities.

“I value the leadership skills the sport has taught me, and that success does not happen overnight,” Veiga said.

There are various types of rowing Veiga can perform where the number of rowers, oars, and type of boat vary. Veiga partakes in doubles, meaning she has a partner and an oar in each hand, when she rows at MRC. She also partakes in fours: similar to

Ale

convinced to begin rowing her freshman year by her father. Putting in hard work and dedica-

doubles but with four rowers; and eights: like the previous two forms but with eight rowers, among others. Safety is also key for Veiga with so many boats and individuals in the water. If one is I VALUE THE not careful a severe accident could ocLEADERSHIP SKILLS cur while out on the THE SPORT HAS water. An accident TAUGHT ME AND THAT could easily lead to serious injuSUCCESS DOES NOT ry but when HAPPEN OVERNIGHT. taking the BARBARA VEIGA, proper precauSENIOR tions,

Lake Biscayne

is paramount for rowers to function as a unit when out on the water.

One can think of a rowing team like a chain: if there is a weak link, the chain will break, but if one is steadfast in effort during the time they row, they and their team will excel.

“You are just as strong as your weakest teammate,” Veiga said. “The pain is temporary.”

Fishing - Jon Trueba

Junior Jon Trueba, a lifelong angler, had

-

-

FISHING FAR:

trip on his friend’s boat in Biscayne Bay.

Marta

Rock Climbing - Azuma Crowe

Rodrig

uez

/ highlight

s

-

-

-

-

h

CLIMBING HIGH: Crowe climbs

a rock wall on his trip to Colorado.

z

ue

ig dr

M

ar

ta

/

s

ht

ig

hl

g hi

Ro

sports | 21

Cavs fall short of the endzone

Playing a tough game against Miami High, their rivals, the Cavaliers football team suffered a loss at home BY: SOFIA RODRIGUEZ, STAFF WRITER

O

N FRIDAY, OCT. 8, THE CORal Gables Cavaliers went up against their longtime rival, the Miami High Stingarees, for one of their most anticipated games of the year.

screen displaying the tight score between the teams.

pos-

benched players at all times, checking

from the coaches who wanted their players to continue to play strong and the whistle blown from the referees after each play. The Gables athletic trainer,

how they felt and giving them water for hydration.

Despite the Stingarees making yet another touchliers keep their chins up and continue to sustain their High crowd only got louder and louder as their play-

itive mindsets to start the game.

As fans made their way into the stands of the Curtis Park football cial coin toss, determining

There were some important errors that led up to the Gables team’s defeat. Even though both the offense and defense were strong throughout the game, the Cavs ultimately weren’t able to keep up with the Stingarees.

“We played decently for the

fortunately for the Cavs, they lost the coin toss, meaning that Miami

After an intense game from both the Cavaliers and the Stingarees, Miami Se-

Cavs as the Stingarees scored two touch-

sprinted into the endzone, scoring a touchdown for the Cavaliers. Immediately, the Gables bleachers rose to cheer on their Cavs as the players celebrated within themselves and the cheerleaders began their touchdown cheer.

one touchdown, making the overall score 7 to 47. highlights

the ball and with their strategic plays. With four minutes and 43 seconds left of the third

game walking in, especially when you go up against your rivals. It is disappointing that we couldn’t come out with the win, but we did a lot of good things that we hope to build upon leading into our last district game versus Miami Beach,” senior David Kuper said.

The Coral Gables Senior High Cavaliers

through their veins, the Cavs were motivatsmiles kept getting bigger as they saw a sliver of hope with the numbers 14 and seven on the

Above: Players Matthew Stapleton (left) and John Saintcloud (right)

22 | sports

make it to the playoffs. They will work hard to bring at least a couple of wins for the school to prove their continued efforts to improve. h

IN FORMATION: During the third quarter, the players are lined up, ready to start the next down.

Clean to gleam

Just a drive away, Las Brisas Hand Car Wash and Miami

BY FRANCESCA RICO, STAFF WRITER

Miami Car Wash

Located at 7140 SW 80th St, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

- Starting at $7, one can receive an Express Wash that includes a regular wash and powerful air dry.

- The $18 Manager Special provides a triple foam wash, powerful air dry, spotfree rinse, rim cleaner and ceramic seal.

- The Deluxe Wash that combines an Express Wash, triple foam, rim cleaner and a spot free rinse.

- Offering monthly packages, customers have an unlimited amount of washes,

Spotless Spectacle: In nearly

three minutes, cars leaving Miami Car Wash shine as soon as they exit the machine.

of package a customer signs up for, ranging from $19.99 to $44.99 - Interestingly enough, on Halloween this year, there will be a Halloween-themed car wash available.

- “I recommend the Manager Special,” employee Ronald Ramirez said. “It has the Shine and Protect, Deluxe Wash and the Express Wash, but what’s most special about the Manager Special is the ceramic seal, which gets put all over your car, giving it a shine on your car and protects the shine on your car.”

- Washes will typically last only three minutes - When done, the customer then parks their car in the drying station where one mats, free of charge.

-“We offer fast passes to our customers, which allows them to have a one-time monthly deduction for whatever wash they would like at unlimited times,” co-owner Dee Chomat said.

Las Brisas Hand Car Wash Located at 1601 SW 27th Ave, open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday-Friday, and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. Their second location is 6800 Coral Way, open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. all week

Francesca Rico/highlights.

Welcoming Wash: Las Brisas

Hand Car Wash’s employees are and effectively clean and repair cars.

- Las Brisas Hand Car Wash, which translates to the breezes, offers hand car many employees are cleaning the outside and inside of cars at all times - The workers at Las Brisas Hand Car Wash also check and replace customers’ necessary.

- “I really like Las Brisas Hand Car Wash because my car wash was done geciras said.

- While customers wait for their cars to be done, they have the option to shop at the mini convenience store Las Brisas Hand Car Wash has to offer. The store ers, cleaning supplies and tools.

- Las Brisas Hand Car Wash has developed as a very reputable name in the car wash industry

Francesca Rico/ highlights.

23 the scene

Every cuisine has a vegan dish that can be matched to a traditional one, with dim sum at MintyZ to the health cafe of Raw South, the creation of vegan dishes are endless

BY LENOX BALZEBRE AND ALANA GONZALEZ, STAFF WRITERS

HOMEMADE HUMMUS: highlights.

A

N ENTIRELY FRESH WORLD of vegan cuisine, where the crisp smell of plants blends into the air with the natural scent of raw juices and produce, is what exists at Raw South. The plant-based cafe is bright with the traditional tropical feeling of Miami not only is Raw for anyone in need of a healthy, refreshing meal. love for nature, in terms of being able to provide a safe ‘nature’ haven for our customers,” owner of Raw South Yesenia Benitez said.

Benitez opened this cafe six years ago in the hopes of creating an atmosphere of support for people to promote well-being and a healthy lifestyle. attempt to inspire customers. Even the names of the items on their menu, from smoothies to sandwiches to salads, are motivational quips to inspire wellbeing. Effervescent titles like the Be Bold kale juice and the Dose of Vigor turmeric smoothie, are meant to ignite a surge of motivation for each customer. By providing motivation, Benitez has noticed her effect on the environment surrounding her where the proposition of taking care of personal health has developed into a reality.

Beginning as a juice bar, Raw South is known for their smoothies and juices. A crowd-pleaser the Pep in Your Step, which combines almond milk, blueberries, banana, spinach, cinnamon, chia seeds and cocoa pow-

24 the scene

der. Another fan favorite is the Mango Fusion, a blend of mango, pineapple, banana, coconut water and agave. Their affordable prices for their smoothies range from $8.75 to $10.50 plus tax, perfect for anyone looking for the

“

WE HAVE CREATED A SPACE THAT REFLECTS OUR LOVE FOR NATURE, IN TERMS OF BEING ABLE TO PROVIDE A SAFE ‘NATURE’ HAVEN FOR OUR CUSTOMERS. YESENIA BENITEZ, OWNER OF RAW SOUTH Raw South’s claim to fame was their acai berries of all varieties and coconut, priced at $10.50. Many people take a liking to the Monkey Bowl with the sweet taste of peanut butter and chocolate in the form of a nutricious meal.

However, Raw South’s specialty in vegan cuisine lies in the concealment of the vegan ingredients throughout their dishes.

Their foods are mainly plant based, including their Salmon Bagel sandwich, priced

at $11. This “smoked salmon” is made from marinated and seasoned carrots that resemble vegan tacos contain lentil almond meat as their base resembling true meat almost to a tee.

“I’ve been with my friend a couple of times, to get some of the Mango Fusion and Energizer smoothies, and none of us are vegan, but we love the place,” sophomore Timothee Chiquillo said.

Garnering ideas for new recipes by perusing the aisles of Whole Foods every day and posting pictures of her creations on her own Instagram, Benitez began Raw South before she knew it. Initially starting as a healthy lifestyle passion for Benitez, it soon transformed into a business where she shared all these recipes through her store. how it impacted my wellness, and I became passionate about it,” Benitez said. “So I went on to do something with it and share it.”

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays, and located in South Miami at 5845 Sunset Drive, and Kendall at 9804 SW 77th Ave the Raw South community welcomes all to enjoy their nutrient-rich food and healthy environment.

As their kind service brings food to tables, one is welcome to enjoy the homey environment Raw South prides themselves on having.

The serene environment of Raw South place inviting all to thrive in support of one another in this new health community.

MINTYZ The sweet smell of Minty Z’s cuisine wafts down the Grand Avenue sidewalk. This pan-Asian restaurant has one’s favorite dishes like fried rice and wok style vegetables, and is accompanied by the dim sum principle.

Dim sum, translated to “touch the heart,” is an assortment of smaller dishes that are meant to be shared with family and friends.

Minty Z focuses on dim sum because of how it connects to the co-creators’ Asian background.

“My wife has a family background of dim sum and cooking,” co-owner Alexander Falco said. “I’ve been a chef for 14 years and we are both vegan, so we wanted to make a place where we could both eat and enjoy it and have everybody else enjoy it as well.”

Among the most popular menu items is the king oyster mush-

Alana Gonzalez/highlights.

have been shredded to mimic a meat like texture, jalapeño and crispy caramelized onions at $12 per serving. The massaman curry noodles contain a vegan shrimp substitute, coconut curry sauce, sweet potatoes and roasted peanuts for $21.

For dessert, the sesame bubble sundae consists of a decadent vanilla and brownie ice cream, accompanied by sesame bubbles, surrounded by crunchy sesame seeds for $16.

With custom wooden food steamers, the restaurant intertwines functionality with decor, as these steamers are also used as a barrier between the food area and the kitchen.

“The ambiance here is so nice, the employees could not be kinder; Vegan or not, Minty Z provides a delicious meal when craving Asian cuisine with a plant based twist.

WONDERFUL WINGS: Served on china, teriyaki fried shiitake mushrooms are a house favorite, also considered one by both owners.

PLANTA QUEEN Alana Gonzalez/highlights.

When nearing PLANTA Queen in CocoWalk, the distant sound of food spinning in skillets entices customers to order.

Featuring many appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts, the most popular dish at PLANTA Queen is the “Bang Bang Broccoli.” This dish is a mixture of crispy cooked broccoli glazed in a sweet chili and peanut sauce, priced at $13.25.

The most commonly ordered sushi dish is the crispy rice, made with spicy mayo, priced at $15.75.

“The udon noodles are very popular, the bang bang broccoli is very popular and really all the sushi dishes are very popular, especially the crispy rice,” employee Emilia Torelo said.

Considering that PLANTA Queen is a vegan restaurant, each su-

NOTEWORTHY NOODLES: The udon noodle dish was originally created in East Asia, complimenting PLANTA Queen’s asian fusion menu.

sushi. From a baked faux crab roll, made of hearts of palm and topped with spicy mayo and ponzu, to a California roll made up of hearts of palm, avocado, cucumber and macadamia nuts, these dishes convey the creativity behind the menu and are priced at $16.

The restaurant itself feels very upscale, but the meals are reasonably priced. The decor within PLANTA Queen is chic and modern with an Asian feel.

“This restaurant is so nice, it’s hard to believe this was once a large Cheesecake Factory,” senior George Gonzalez said.

Being plant based, the PLANTA Queen menu is healthy and tasty to boot. The restaurant is an excellent option for any student trying to have a glamorous night out without breaking the bank. h

25 the scene

ABANDONED MIAMI

BY ANDREA DELGADO, STAFF WRITER

Miami remembers two iconic locations, the Coral Gables Bunker and the Miami Marine Stadium, them stand out spots

A

LTHOUGH EACH CITY HAS ITS ABANDONED sites, Miami contains two of the most outstanding ones: the Coral Gables Bunker and the Miami Marine Stadium.

grown bushes which is all that’s left of the makeshift structure that once stood there while the Miami Marine Stadium continues to stand abandoned after being home to power boat races and con cert performances. attacks during the tensions of the Cold War. The bunker is located Coral Gables area. as the bunker. The stadium has been found unsafe, but that hasn’t stopped locals from attempting to enter the property. forming them into a completely different space that Miami teen Currently, these abandoned sites stand in remembrance of piece of the Miami community. the most attention and that is exactly what these two places do.

26 the scene

STEEP STAIRS: Visitors appreciate the picturesque view, surrounded by chipped paint and plastic seats wearing away.

Andrea Delgado/highlights.

MIAMI MARINE STADIUM

Originally constructed in 1963 by the designs of Hilario Candela, the Miami Marine Stadium was built with the intention of being a tourist hotspot for all boating events. Not only was it a host to speedboat shows, but also the location of singer Jimmy Buffet’s most famous performances, featured in Elvis Presley’s movies and speeches by politicians like Richard Nixon.

Despite its popularity in the 70s and 80s, Hurricane Andrew’s damage to Miami led to it being abandoned as it was no longer deemed lowed its abandonment and still rage on.

“I think Key Biscayne should keep the stadium standing because it’s sort of a relic,” senior Chase Weiner said. “It’s a place you can

go to see the view, hangout with friends and have a good chill time.”

Considering that it is located right off the Rickenbacker Causeway on the way into Virginia Key, it’s a spectacle to anyone driving by. Although it continues to be closed to the public, Miami teenagers have made their way into the stadium to take pictures and walk around the massive structure.

After being left unrestored for years, the city of Miami has decided to make a plan to modernize it and make it into the admired tourist attraction it originally was.

As recently as April of 2021, a presentation was held by the American Institute of Architects Miami in efforts to restore the renowned stadium. Those in favor compared the

stadium to the Freedom Tower and Vizcaya Gardens, as it is also a part of Miami heritage.

The project would cost around $50 million to complete; the modernized stadium would include a restaurant and digital media additions.

“I think the stadium should be restored to what it used to be because it could be a really cool addition to Miami and host concerts and shows like it did before,” said senior Barbara Veiga With such a notable past and hopeful future, the Miami Marine Stadium is a striking structure that still stands tall over Virginia Key. As of today, its infrastructure is lacking walls, but whether this structure will continue to look this way remains unknown.

EXPRESSIVE ENVIRONMENT: The

Miami Marine Stadium overlooks Biscayne Bay on its historical walls (left). create

these

unique

CORAL GABLES BUNKER

When anyone says “the bunker”, Miami structure in the depths of the Matheson Hammock area. Despite its current look, it was originally created in the 1960s by the Central Intelligence Agency as a place to conduct secret government operations. However, with lack of funding and care, it is now not serving its intended government purpose.

installed and supplies were placed inside.

Overtime, the windows turned into the current holes in it’s wall and have now been overrun by the greenery in the Coral Gables’ Matheson Reserve. Ever since it was abandoned, both the inside and outside have been covered in various layers of spray paint crafted by those

who have visited. Its colorful walls make it a social media worthy spot for pictures by all den treasure. cause it has a little piece of everyone that has been there,” senior Mariangel Varcarcel said.

“It’s cool to paint over it and revisit at another time to see how it has changed.”

Frequently visited for its covert ambience, this locale has become a part of Miami culture. visited this spot for its intriguing ambiance it isn’t known by those who visit, this bunpaintball for teenagers back in the 1990s. As

it continues to be used for relatively the same purpose, the hope is that it stands for future generations to experience this as well and take part in this Miami staple. “[I think the bunker is part of Miami culture] because it’s been there for so long, there have been more and more people, especially teenagers discovering the bunker,” senior Tara Fitzgerald said. “[It’s] an art form and [a] fun place to explore.” dows, this abandoned bunker continues to be an iconic stomping ground for Miami teenagers who want to go to a hidden, off the trail spot in the Gables. Although it is uncommonly known, its unusual war background makes it that much more interesting for its visitors. h

HIDDEN HIDEOUT:

Covered by overgrown shurbbery, the Coral Gables Bunker location remains concealed (left).

Eight foot ceilings have enabled vistors to observe longstanding artists (right).

27 the scene

TEENAGE TROUBLES

WRITTEN BY GREGOIRE WINSTON, CO-ONLINE EDITOR

28 insight

Due to social media and peer pressure among other factors, teens and pre-teens are becoming used to living lives which would have normally not applied to them decades prior

T

HE TYPICAL TEENAGER: moody, sleep-deprived and addicted to their phone. Ever since its creation and public access in the early 2000s, the Internet and social media have revolutionized teens’ daily lives, dictating not only how they act, but also how individuals throughout society should act and dress.

A new trend has been on the rise over the past few years; teens and pre-teens are increasingly adopting adult-like habits earlier in life, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, watching pornography and having sex at an age younger than is expected of them.

The conception of TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and other social media platforms have opened the doors for a plethora of group chats, forums and chatting servers as a way to keep up with one’s social circle, even hundreds of miles away.

While very advantageous, the undeniably convenient ways in which via social media is a central cause for the development of pressure and the propagation of negative behaviors.

“Social media negatively and positively sides,” sophomore Eduardo Meonez said.

“Teenage misconduct is very relevant nowadays because kids have the will to disobey and act reckless to look better in front of others.”

Although it can be argued that teenagers are growing up at a faster rate than expected, the contrary can also stand ground.

Relative to their generational counterparts, Millennials and Generation X, the inability to make proper decisions independently meshed with a generational fear of the

DID YOU KNOW? Among high school current e-cigarette users, 38.9% use e-cigarettes frequently Source:

Food and Administration

Drug

future represent factors that make teenagers mature at a slower rate.

The Society for Child Research and Development, after performing seven nationwide surveys of pre-teens and teens from 2010-2020, concluded that “adult behaviors” were occuring at a later age than prior to the 21st century. First kisses, working part-time jobs and buying a car are milestone events which are progressively being delayed as a result of this cultural

norm.

Nonetheless, it is clear that teenagers are unquestionably victims of a changing world. The rapid development of the World Wide Web, coupled with increased digitization of our daily lives, has given rise to the pre-teen trend experienced nowadays.

In order to combat this tendency, multiple against internet bullying and denounced the negative toll Instagram has on users.

Supermodel Bella Hadid, via her post on Nov. 9, 2021, explained that “we are insecurities, in our joy, in our happiness, and accept it all as beautiful and natural” in relation to the toxic environment she claims exists on the platform.

Although not a fool-proof solution, celebrities proclaiming inclusivity, diversity and self awareness on the web who post statements like these go a long way in changing teenagers’ mentalities for the better.

Past generations have set strict expectations as to what a teen should do during their teenage years. Pre-teens were stereotypically known to play outdoor sports, watch football on TV and go on bike rides around town, among other amusing activities. Today, that stereotype is being shattered.

lights

”

The fact that the internet is so open to everybody... teenagers who are naturally mischievous will want to explore things even more if they have a wide open access.

“

Alain Almanza, Senior

”

h hig n/

”

goire Win Gre st o

students speak up

Social media has The younger mind is become an important tool for saturated by the toxicity of influencing people. If someone social media, because younger generations are falling into a trap sees a celebrity smoking, they of wanting to adopt bad behavior will think it’s cool so they are going to do it and post it, just from an age when they are not for fame. supposed to.

“

Janelle Linton, Junior

Kristien Brandon, Senior

insight 29

“

PEER PRESSURE In addition to social media, peer pressure development. As celebrity culture continues to dominate the perception of beauty standards, mental health and ideal physical characteristics, teens and pre-teens not only conform to celebrity standards, but to those in their friend network as well. Mental health and searching for ideal physical characteristics The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), in a study conducted from 2018-2020 surveying American middle and high schoolers nationwide, found that 28% of teens embraced peer pressure as a way to increase their social

standing. While peer pressure and social stigmatization is nothing new, a variety of habits adopted by pre-teens have become normalized.

Alcohol consumption, pornography, the performance of sexual acts and vaping all play their part in the normalization of teenage misconduct. These types of actions are becoming more and more frequent, reaching a wider audience as the years pass.

The plethora of television shows, advertisements, marketing and commercial strategies advocating for the latest trends and accessories put children in an uncomfortable position. While many 11 to 12 years olds would be running around playing tag with

As reported by Sue Palmer in an interview given to The Guardian in 2018, sees peer pressure as the primary antagonist in this situation. This child development expert and author of the book “Toxic Childhood,” understands that children are biologically programmed to act in certain ways, and speeding up the maturing process causes more harm than good.

Palmer feels pushing kids out of their childhood due to the standardization of certain acts can have a “lasting impact on brain functions’’ if these habits continue years down the line. Thus, peer pressure’s undeniable into aging faster and maturing earlier than once expected.

INTERNET ACCESSIBILITY The facilitated access to websites designated for adults is another cause in the generational shift currently being experienced.

In a 2016 report, National Public Radio (NPR)’s national survey found that over 53% of middle schoolers had a phone. Furthermore, 84% of teenagers owned a phone prior to the start of seventh grade, as claimed by Common Sense Media, a technology-tracking company established in 2013.

The reality of these statistics provides well-needed hindsight into the true factor behind the upward trend society is a witness of. More than ever, adolescents have access to everything on the WWW. On Pinterest, Tumblr and even Tinder, the amount of resources available are endless.

What is more worrisome is when teenagers

cross lines punishable by the American justice system. Pornogaphic sites, legally only accessible to adults over 18 years old, are more than often by teengers, who’s curiosity leads them to this point. The Independent’s national conducted census in 2019 determined that the occurs at 12 years old.

More strikingly, 79% of teens have performed some activity to conceal their search history, such as deleting tabs or history in its entirety. Carrying around an X-rated theatre in their pockets day after day, it is no surprise that nine out of 10 boys and seven out of 10 girls watch porn before the age of 18.

With the single click of a button, kids are able to explore the ins and outs of the Internet unhindered. Luckily, to protect child

highlights surveyed 390 students in Sep. 2021 regarding the behavioral shift among teenagers

30 insight

safety and prevent the current pattern from continuing, numerous services have added systems to protect the young, innocent minds of children.

For example, Youtube has added a brandnew system to its algorithm while Apple allows parents to have parental controls on their childrens’ phone. In order to search for content categorized as “M” for mature, not only do users have to go through several to scan and attach a picture of an up-to-date American ID matching the user’s credentials and information.

As a result of a reinforcement of their online safety protocol, the chances of preteens being exposed to content not destined

92% 91%

of students believe that adult actions are now being normalized at a young age

of students believe that social media and peer pressure have caused teenagers to grow up faster

SOCIAL MEDIA Over the course of the 21st century, social media has played an unequivocal role in the way people interact with each other.

Platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat, encapsulating the bulk of today’s social media users, with 3.6 billion international users over the course of 2021, according to Statista, were initially created to bring people closer together.

More than a decade after their conception, both platforms have stayed true to their mission statements: “capturing, sharing and connecting with others.” In spite of this unsuspecting motto hides a more grave basis: the “role model” position.

Indeed, the youth, categorized by the United Nations (UN) as individuals between the ages of 12-24, often aspire to one day live of others, Kendall Jenner, Loren Gray and society, whose jobs inspire the masses.

e h t y b

Users across the world do everything in their power to relate to these people all these celebrities are the furthest thing from “relatable.” Filters, makeup and expensive clothes are generally not accessible to the dollar earning stars shining light on their most desirable qualities causes teens and pre-teens to adopt a sense of admiration, to the point of becoming entrenched in a passionate fandom.

Consequently, the youth has the desire to push themselves past their respective age groups. With the ever-increasing desire to one day amass an equivalent level of fame, they similar aesthetic of their idols. Boys ages 12 and 13 have increasingly started going to the gym, in an attempt to match Little Hercules’ or followers on Instagram, as an up-and-coming bodybuilder, Lee has inspired countless preteens to go out of their way in their quest for a

chiseled six-pack, bulky biceps and protruding chest.

However, as more and more children dream of becoming “manly” from one day to the next, the mental and physical repercussions cannot be denied. In a time where growth plates haven’t even started their development, according to Yale Medicine, putting tension on muscles, ligaments and tendons can lead to stunted growth.

From a female standpoint, the same

In such a highly subjective area of society, the changing perception of beauty has allowed a picture perfect body and face. Similarly to boys, pre-teen girls feel the need to grow past how their actual physical situation presents itself, resulting in the new generation maturing at a faster rate than previously thought. h

s r e b num

92%

of students know of a pre-teenager or teenager that drinks or smokes

44%

of students agree that parents should do more to limit their children’s screen time

54%

of students got their the ages of 11-13 insight 31

Find us online Like our Facebook page: highlights Follow us on Instagram and Twitter: @highlightscghs Read more at: cavsconnect.com/category/ highlights-submissions/ What is your opinion? Tell us your point of view on a topic published in highlights with an email titled “Letter to the Editor.” We reserve the right to publish any letters sent to this email.

Questions? Email us at highlightscghs@gmail.com

lightbox Sophomore Charlie Winklejohn maintains the ball after intense pressure from the Westwood junior varsity basketball team. The Cavaliers reigned supreme with a score of 7344.

Marta Rodriguez / highlights