Senior, Joy Missey, and junior, Gabby parker, star as Cat in the Hat and JoJo during a dress rehearsal of Seussical: The Musical at the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre. April 19, 2025.
FSU shooting: 2 dead, 6 injured, deputy sheriff’s son in custody
By Mel Tenkoff Assistant News Editor
Gunfire erupted near Florida State University’s student union last Thursday, sending students fleeing and forcing the campus into lockdown. Belongings were left abandoned on the lawn. Some students barricaded the entrance to their classroom with a pile of chairs and desks. Police sirens replaced the sound of birds and chatter.
After a three hour shelter-in-place, two people were dead, six other victims were wounded and the campus was forever changed.
The suspected gunman, 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, an FSU student and the stepson of Leon County Deputy Jessica Ikner, was shot by police after refusing
to comply with commands. He was taken to the hospital with serious but non-lifethreatening injuries.
FSU employees Robert Morales, 57, and Tiru Chabba, 45, were killed. The other victims are expected to recover, according to Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare.
“The University of Miami stands in heartfelt solidarity with the Florida State University community in the wake of today’s tragic events,” UM said in a statement on its Instagram, @univmiami, on Thursday. “Our thoughts are with all those affected – especially the families, friends and loved ones impacted. As a fellow member of the ACC, we stand in unity with the Seminoles.”
This marks the sixth mass shooting in Florida in 2025 out of the 81 mass shootings in the United States this year, according to data from the nonprofit Gun
Violence Archive.
Ikner used his mother’s personal handgun, a retired service weapon, according to Leon County Sheriff Walter A. McNeil. The alleged shooter has been a long-time member of Leon County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Advisory.
Following the tragedy, over 2,000 students, faculty and community members gathered in the school’s central park, Langford Green, for a vigil on Friday at 5 p.m. Dressed in garnet and gold, the crowd stood in front of the Unconquered Statue surrounded by flowers, candles and stuffed animals.
Video and photos flooded social media, showing students scattering as shots rang out, with sirens filling the air as law enforcement converged on the scene.
“Even though it felt kind of broken yesterday, we’re still a community,” FSU
OPINION
senior Tori Grossman said.
Professors extended deadlines, counseling services were expanded and FSU’s food pantry assured students that resources would remain available.
Although classes resumed, FSU President Richard McCullough announced that mandatory attendance is being waived for the final week of classes.
“We want everyone to receive the support and help they need,” he said in a message to students, faculty and staff on Saturday. “For some students that may mean not going back into the classroom. For others, the idea of community and gathering, as well as the opportunity to focus on academics, may be beneficial. There is no single right answer for everyone.”
McCullough was among his FSU community at the vigil, and tearfully closed the evening’s ceremony with a
message of strength and unity.
“We will carry this loss with us. We’ll carry it together – and we will move forward, together,” he said.
“This killer must and will be brought to justice to the fullest extent of the law,”
Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a video on X. “I want to also thank the law enforcement personnel who were on the scene both for the university as well as for the city of Tallahassee. They ran towards the danger. We’re all Seminoles today.”
President Donald Trump said he had been fully briefed on the situation before his meeting with the Italian prime minister in the Oval Office Thursday afternoon.
“These things are terrible,” Trump said to CBS News. “But the gun doesn’t do the shooting, the people do … I have an obligation to protect the Second Amendment.”
Shooting at Florida State University needs to be a catalyst for change
By Katie Karlson Opinion Editor
With only 11 days of classes left, UM’s campus was buzzing on Thursday, April 17. Students were wrapping up the year by studying for finals, attending award ceremonies and taking graduation photos.
Similarly, Florida State University’s campus was bustling as its 44,00 students neared the end of the semester. But suddenly, at about 11:56 a.m., shots rang out. Two people were killed and six victims were injured. As UM students relaxed outside by the lake, FSU students frantically ran for their lives, hiding under desks and barricading classrooms.
FSU’s tragedy begs the question that has gone unanswered too many times: How much longer will Americans stand for gun violence that threatens their children’s lives?
As another Florida school with close connections to FSU, our UM community deeply feels the impact of this tragic event. Many of us have friends and family at FSU and enjoy a strong rivalry and partnership with FSU.
For me, the shooting is very personal. I spent the afternoon texting my cousin, a freshman at FSU, making sure she was
safe. I couldn’t even ask if she was “OK,” because how could she be OK when her college campus resembled a war zone?
The shooter was identified as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old student at FSU who is the stepson of a local sheriff’s deputy. Ikner used his stepmother’s retired police handgun to open fire on the FSU campus. Police later found a shotgun at the scene and an AR-15-style rifle in the car he drove.
I’m heartbroken, and I’m angry.
Another shooter terrorized FSU’s campus in 2014, and the Parkland shooting was just seven years ago. Many of the high schoolers from Marjory Stoneman Douglas, the site of the Parkland shooting, are now college-aged and close to graduation.
Stephanie Horowitz, a current master’s student at FSU, was a freshman at Marjory Stoneman Douglas in 2018. She has now endured two separate school shootings.
“I never thought it would happen to me for the first time, and here we are,” Horowitz told “CBS Mornings.” “Unfortunately, this is America for you.”
This should not be our reality. It’s obvious that Floridians have suffered enough, bearing the brunt of relaxed gun laws, and it’s time for change.
Currently, Florida does not require a permit to purchase or carry a concealed
gun. After the Parkland shooting, Florida raised the minimum age to purchase a gun from 18 to 21, but, the Florida State House recently passed a bill that would allow 18-year-olds to once again purchase both long guns and rifles. The bill has not yet been approved by the State Senate.
It’s time we stop viewing guns as protection that people need access to and start seeing them for the deadly weapons they are. Data from the Gun Violence Archive shows that only 1,436 cases of defensive gun use were filed in 2024. To put this in perspective, 16,725 people died by gunshot in 2024. Guns are not making us safer. In fact, guns are the leading cause of death for teens and children in America. Instead of undoing any progress and
passing laws making it easier to obtain guns, Florida’s government needs to pass laws to protect our college students and our community.
“Thoughts and prayers” aren’t enough when there are actionable steps our leaders and elected officials can take to protect us. I, and a large majority of young Americans, believe this topic should not be a political issue when countless deaths, injuries and trauma can be prevented.
President Trump, when interviewed about the shooting on Thursday, said that “These things are terrible, but the gun doesn’t do the shooting, the people do.”
Trump continued on to say that he has an obligation to protect the Second Amendment and his administration plans to con-
tinue reversing many gun safety laws. Additionally, the Justice Department is considering ways for people with previous criminal convictions to own guns. If people do the shooting and not the guns, why are we considering giving people with a criminal past, who are more likely to have mental health issues, access to weapons? A study published in the National Library of Medicine found mental health issues such as suicidal or depressive thoughts were common themes among those who commit school shootings.
While mental health treatment might be the ultimate solution to preventing these tragedies from occurring, it’s not working fast enough.
It’s not even four full months into 2025, and America has already experienced 81 mass shootings.
We need policies that limit access to guns, and we need them now. Students should not have to fear for their lives, barricade themselves in classrooms and walk out with their hands above their heads.
Mass shootings instill terror in students and devastate victims’ families. To know that and still think that protecting our right to bear arms is more important than our right to feel safe at school should be a crime.
Ernie Stephens, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
The James D. Westcott Building and Fountain at Florida State University on Aug 18, 2018.
At least 8 University of Miami students’ visas revoked
By Jenny Jacoby Editor-in-Chief
Several University of Miami students have had their visas revoked, according to multiple reliable sources who asked not to be identified.
According to these sources, eight students have lost their visas, but other sources have indicated the number might now be higher.
One faculty member and 58 “administrators” have also been impacted by the recent immigration actions. Limited information was provided, though most of the administrators, what we understand to be staff that is non-faculty, appear to have lost their temporary protected status as a part of Trump Administration’s attempt to rollback TPS for some countries.
The University has not confirmed these numbers despite multiple requests for comment.
The Miami Hurricane has not been able to identify any of those students or staff, nor whether the affected are undergraduates, graduates or in the middle of their optional practical training (OPT) work authorization period.
The news has taken a toll on the UM community, particularly the international students who make up more than 10% of the student body.
“I think the scary part is that for a lot of people deportations mean they go back to corrupt places,” a student told TMH. “For me, because I have a home and family to go back to, the scary part is the unfairness of what could happen. The unfairness of you studying and working your ass off and not receiving a degree. The unfairness of being a ‘good person,’ not committing crimes and being treated like a criminal.”
A professor at UM on a visa, who also asked to not be identified, says the fear of deportation seeps into every aspect of their life.
“It is a struggle to concentrate on teaching or prepping or doing the things that I have to do every day and that is me as an adult,” the professor said. “It’s like this fake sense of safety. And it is also weird to have a folder with a whole bunch of documents in it, but then also knowing that it is just a matter of one encounter with the wrong person who just wants to upend your life randomly, and then you’re done. We basically have very little recourse.”
A database maintained by Inside Higher Ed reports that there have been more than
1,600 reported visa revocations by the U.S. Department of State over the past month. The wave of action against international students is part of Secretary of State and UM Law Alumnus Marco Rubio’s effort to punish international students involved in campus protests, mostly in support of the Palestinian cause.
“We do it every day. Every time I find one of these lunatics, I take away their visa,” Rubio said in a news conference on Thursday, March 27.
The Department of Homeland Security is said to be using AI-powered tools to scan international students’ social media for antisemitic or anti-Israel comments that may qualify them for a visa cancellation.
What started as an effort to eliminate antisemitism on campuses has expanded further in the past weeks.
In an interview on the Ben Shapiro Show on April 17, Rubio said in addition to the State Department revocations, the Department of Homeland Security is carrying out its own visa cancellations based on criminal records.
“If you commit a crime while you’re in the U.S., that’s an automatic grounds for revoking your visa. And no one was ever doing it. They weren’t doing it. They weren’t cross-referencing the system. Now they’re starting to do that,” he said.
Student visas have now reportedly been revoked for a number of reasons, from minor traffic violations to driving with expired licenses. The basis for many cases has not been publicly shared.
“Knowing the broader context under which this administration is making these decisions about visas and green cards, I think we have enough evidence to know that it is politically motivated,” the professor said. “This is just a horrific weaponization of the immigration system.”
It is not clear why the UM student visas were revoked, though “encounters with law enforcement” was a suggested reason.
UM had a relatively minor response to the events following the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The campus did not see any protests or encampments, only school-approved student-led vigils and educational events, making it unlikely that students were targeted for a connection to pro-Palestine behavior.
Neighboring Florida International University has reported 18 visa revocations. FIU spokesperson Madeline Baró said the school wasn’t aware of any students who
lost their visas over connection to protests.
“It feels like the government is trying to find an excuse to not have international students anymore,” said another international student who asked to remain anonymous.
As of fall 2024, 2,151 international students were enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs at UM. Out of caution and a lack of knowledge of what is deemed a deportation-worthy offense, international students at UM have been hesitant to leave the country, others have deleted social media posts that could have any political connotation.
“With all the new laws taking place I feel that it is just one more thing that I have to stress about,” said an international student who asked to remain anonymous. “Being far away from my family, friends, and home is already difficult to deal with. I feel like I have to be careful about what I am doing and doublethink everything.”
Across the U.S. more than 1.1 million international students are enrolled in colleges and universities. In the 2023-2024 school year these students contributed $43.8 billion to the U.S. economy and supported more than 378,000 jobs, according to the Association of International Educators.
“Parents of international students value this education and work hard to make sure their kids are receiving a high-value education,” said the second student. “In the current state you’re putting money in the country through your school tuition, you’re paying taxes, but then you’re being treated in a way that you’re not welcome here.”
Depending on a student’s undergraduate major they are allotted up to three years of OPT, working for a company that sponsors them to stay in the U.S. For each year of OPT, these students are entered into a lottery to obtain a work visa that extends their time in the U.S.
“Its crazy one day you’re working full time the next day out of nowhere your visa is revoked,” a student said. “Just ending someone’s career just like that is insane.”
Students who have had their visas revoked have faced a mixture of consequences. Some are asked to self-deport, others have been held in detention facilities, including 27-year-old University of Florida student Felipe Zapata Velásquez who was sent to the Krome Detention Center in Miami after his arrest. He is now back in Colombia.
Ashely Sewall contributed to the reporting for this article.
Tariff turmoil in April : Uncertainty rises as markets react
By Ross Kluger Staff Writer
April’s economic landscape was shaken by the Trump administration’s “Liberation Day” tariffs, which were announced on April 2. This initiative imposes a universal tariff in an effort to address what the administration described as years of unfair trade practices.
In Miami and across Florida, the impact of these tariffs was especially significant due to a large reliance on international trade. Sectors like construction and retail reported projected losses of up to 40% due to higher costs for imported materials from China. Experts warned that the average Floridian, including college students, could pay an additional $1,000 to $2,000 per year on everyday goods. Ryan Carell, a finance major, expressed his uncertainty about the future of the economy.
“I don’t know what the next move will be, but people are definitely talking about the tariffs on campus. Hopefully it settles down soon,” said Carell. This announcement sent shockwaves through global markets, prompting a rare coordinated response from U.S. trading partners. China, Japan and South Korea publicly announced they would respond in unison, with South Korea’s trade ministry spokesperson calling the tariffs “somewhat exaggerated.”
The tariffs were met with backlash from American businesses with many expressing concern about the future economy and rising inflation rates. In response, the White House issued a significant policy shift on April 9. The administration temporarily paused the country-specific tariffs, which had been set at differing rates, and instead lowered most U.S. allies’ rates to a flat 10%.
However, it was clear that the new focus was mainly on Chinese imports, raising duties to 125%. This “rate” is the percentage of a product’s value importers pay as a border tariff — for example, a 125% tariff means an importer pays $125 in tariffs for every $100 worth of goods imported from China. Notably, the White House later clarified that this 125% rate is in addition to an existing 20% tariff, bringing the total effective tariff on most Chinese imports to 145%.
On Friday, April 11, the White House announced that microchips, computers, and smartphones would be exempt from the tariffs, which are among China’s largest export categories. This move was designed to alleviate some of the pressure on American technology companies and consumers.
This policy allows U.S. tech companies that depend on Chinese manufacturing to avoid steep tariff costs, helping prevent higher expenses and potential price spikes for American consumers. At the same time, the exemptions benefit Chinese firms by maintaining a vital source of revenue from major tech exports to the U.S.
The market’s reaction during the early stages was severe. The stock market lost a collective $536 billion in the two days following the tariff announcements. The Fear and Greed Index, which measures daily investor sentiment, hit a low of 4 in early April before recovering slightly to 19 currently – still in the “extreme fear” category. Furthermore, Americans’ expectations for inflation rose to their highest level since 1981, reflecting their anxiety over the rising prices.
Conversely, large banks such as Bank of America and Citigroup have reported large first quarter profits with a surge in trading revenue. This suggests that for the time being, larger-scale corporations and businesses are not aligned with the public outlook.
The coming weeks will test whether the drastic policy changes can stabilize the markets and restore confidence once again or if more turbulence is to come.
UM alumnus among youngest to travel to every country in the world
By Elena Fallow Staf Writer
Double ’Cane Cameron Mofd has been around the world and back. Literally. Afghanistan? He swam in a lake. North Korea? He ran a marathon.
At 25 years old, he is considered the youngest person to have visited every country in the world by NomadMania, the most respected organization amongst extreme travelers.
From coast to coast Mofd grew up in San Diego, California, where he expressed interest in geography, different cultures and tennis from a young age.
“I was an avid tennis player, and I had a junior world ranking on the ITF tour,” Mofd said. “I actually went for my senior year of high school to a tennis sporting school called Sanchez-Casal Academy in Naples, Florida.”
However, Mofd decided not to play tennis in college and instead took a gap year to work for a professional tennis player.
“So I traveled to a bunch of tournaments all over the world, working in tournaments, writing for a tennis magazine,” Mofd said. “I went to Hong Kong, Singapore, Milan, London, Marrakesh, cities I had only seen on a map before.”
Eventually, his gap year came to an end, and Mofd went to college.
Travel days & BBAs
“I started at the University of Miami in Fall 2019,” Mofd said. “I chose UM not just
for its strong academics, but also because I loved the idea of living in one of the world’s most diverse and international cities.”
However, college did not give Mofd the same sense of freedom that many of his classmates looked forward to.
“I had just been backpacking around the world for a full year, and then I got to UM and had to be at class at this time, and I have these commitments, and stay in this dorm,” he said. “I don’t want to say it was confning, but I longed for that freedom that I had the prior year.”
Despite having his obligations in Miami, Mofd still made efforts to travel when he could. So much so that he picked up a job in event marketing as a freshman to pay for the cost of his travels.
“I went to Guatemala, Cayman Islands, Panama, and El Salvador during little breaks.”
Then, when the COVID-19 pandemic started, Mofd found himself researching how many countries there are in the world, and how many people have visited them all.
“The fact that more people had been to space than every country was crazy to me,” he said. “That inspired me. I wanted a nearimpossible goal to push myself to the limit.”
Mofd then realized he wanted to join the exclusive group of travelers that have visited every country. He then started to save money from his event marketing business in preparation for this adventure.
He completed his BBA in fnance and management in three years and graduated magna cum laude. Then, he was accepted into UM’s MBA program and was honored to graduate as the valedictorian of his MBA class.
“I had been to about 100 countries by the time I fnished my MBA from traveling on breaks, weekends, and missing a week of school here and there.” Mofd said. “After I graduated, I threw a bunch of clothes in a Nike duffe bag and took off for 2 ½ years and visited the last 90 countries on my list.”
Mr. Worldwide
Mofd spent those 2 ½ years hopping from country to country with no set plan.
“I’d take long trips focused on specifc regions, like West Africa or Central Asia, and visit neighboring countries one after the other,” he said. “It was more effcient and cost-effective that way.”
This gave him the fexibility of being able to stay for as long as he liked in different countries. He would spend only a day in smaller countries like Andorra and Liechtenstein but he allotted several weeks for larger countries.
Australia and Venezuela are both on
lists of favorites. “I just think that the vibes in Australia are the best,” he said. “It is such an awesome country with so much to see, so much to do, and the people are very nice.”
According to Mofd, it’s the countries you don’t expect much from that have the most to offer.
“The places that have the most economic instability and the most political instability are places that you fnd the kindest people and the most rewarding travel experiences. Venezuela is at the top of that list,” Mofd said.
Mofd feels that for the size of the country, there is no other place that has more to see than Venezuela and prefers its natural beauty over ultra-touristy cities.
The toughest treks
Despite the pros of meeting amazing people and seeing amazing things, traveling to every country has its cons as well.
“It was very low-budget travel. I spent three years hitchhiking in Africa, traveling through mountains to Afghanistan,” Mofd said.
Mofd recalled his stressful yet memorable trip to Afghanistan through the Torkham border crossing, the busiest checkpoint on the Afghan-Pakistan border.
“Both my initial and rebooked fights were canceled, so I ended up overlanding solo through the mountains from Pakistan,” he said. “At the border, I was interrogated by Pakistani intelligence because they couldn’t understand why an American would be traveling solo into Talibancontrolled territory.”
Another memorable experience he shared was getting stuck in Mogadishu, Somalia after a suspected terrorist attack shut down the airport. With his fight canceled and the military on high alert, Mofd has to take a domestic fight to northern Somalia and leave the country from there.
However, arguably the hardest challenge of all was visiting North Korea, which had been closed to foreigners since the beginning of COVID-19 in 2020.
“North Korea opened briefy for tourism for a couple weeks, but just to the northern region of Rason,” he said. “I was supposed to go there, but the Koreans only opened briefy and then closed it very suddenly.”
However, Mofd’s most rewarding experience came from starting his nonproft Humanity Effect after visiting Lagos, Nigeria.
“When I visited Nigeria, my 115th country, I spent time in Makoko, a slum built partly on stilts over a lagoon. The poverty there was heartbreaking,” he said. “After that experience, I launched a GoFundMe to support a local school I had visited.”
Mofd was able to raise $5,000 with the help of his ’Canes family and friends from his travels. NBA player Kyrie Irving, donated an additional $45,000 to the cause.
“With that amount of money, I felt that I have a responsibility to be a steward for the money and make sure that it lasts and makes a sustainable impact on the community,” he said. “And so I founded Humanity Effect.”
As of today, Humanity Effect has built a second school for the community and is halfway done with their construction of a medical center. They currently support more than 750 children.
delegation of athletes.
“I’ve never run in any sort of race. I’m not a marathon runner, but this was the avenue that enabled me to complete the mission of visiting every country.”
Mofd has since returned home to California and has mixed emotions about ending his journey.
“It’s bittersweet. Visiting every country has been my dream for the past fve years. I’m incredibly grateful for all the people I met and the experiences I shared with them. Now that this chapter has ended, I’m excited for what’s next. Whatever that is, I know I’ll pursue it with the same relentless curiosity and passion that carried me through this journey.”
Mofd’s advice to those who want to travel is, “Just go for it. You don’t have to go somewhere expensive or far away. You don’t even have to leave your country. Being a traveler is more about your mindset than your mileage.”
However, he fell short of the Guinness World Record title.
“The current Guinness record holder, a 21-year-old woman, accomplished something very impressive,” Mofd said. “But in my view, and the view of many in the extreme travel community, her journey didn’t fully meet the spirit of ‘visiting’ every country.”
Although her feat and title are something to be proud of, they are also partially due to Guinness’ lenient rules regarding what is considered a “visit” to a country.
Shortly after, North Korea announced that it would host the 31st annual Pyongyang marathon for the frst time in six years. However, with tourism still closed, Mofd and other participants needed a special athlete visa to enter as part of a
“For example, Guinness counted her visit to an offce in the DMZ – the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea – as visiting North Korea,” he said. “They also allowed travelers to simply clear immigration at an airport and turn right back around.”
Anna Harris // Contributed Photo Lagos, Nigeria with some of our students from our Humanity Efect Schools in December 2023.
Fahad Ahmed // Contributed Photo Dhaka, Bangladesh in October 2024.
Luang Prabang, Laos in November 2024.
Cameron Mofd // Contributed Photo
SG’s ECO Agency celebrates Earth Month
By Casey Servatius Staf Writer
Earth Month at the University of Miami provides fun ways for students to get involved in sustainability, and, this year, UM Student Government’s ECO Agency is launching a brand new event called ECO Encore.
This event will include live music performed by the internationally renowned Recycled Orchestra of Cateura at the Lakeside Patio stage on April 24 from 5-8 pm.
The goal of ECO Encore is to raise awareness for waste management solutions among students and community members, since trash production has been a problem in Miami-Dade County for decades.
The event was organized by ECO President Ryan McMullen and incoming ECO Treasurer Zach Hopkins.
“Depending on whether you’re a local, you may or may not be aware of the trash production issue in Miami-Dade and the very outdated and unsustainable systems we have to deal with it,” McMullen said. “We want the event to be about raising
awareness and connecting people to local NGOs to make their voices heard.”
Apart from ECO Encore, the organization has coordinated a variety of oncampus events to celebrate Earth Month.
On April 15, ECO Agency hosted a native planting event in collaboration with CommUnity Garden at the Gifford Arboretum.
April 16 featured a Teaching Kitchen at Centennial Dining Hall to show students how to make pasta from vegetable scraps.
ECO’s annual Earth Day Fair took place on April 22 at Lakeside Patio, including more than 20 local vendors and small businesses all focused on sustainability.
“There will be a lot of giveaways, free food and music, so plenty of opportunities for students to come and have a good time,” McMullen said.
ECO Agency has eight subcommittees that highlight conservation, education, awareness and more.
Some of ECO’s recent projects include recycling glass bottles and jars at Mahoney-Pearson Dining Hall, providing free Generation Conscious detergent sheets and offering $7 reusable take-out
containers at the dining halls.
After last year’s Earth Month, ECO made important changes to maximize student participation. Although the annual Earth Day fair was still a success, the organization wanted to provide an opportunity for students to participate in sustainability discourse.
One element of this change was adjusting the schedule. Marge Todd, a current third-year student and incoming president for the 2025-2026 school year, thinks this year’s Earth Month schedule is much more accommodating for students.
“Being able to push some of our events towards the beginning of the month is awesome since students get busier with fnals later in the month,” Todd said. “We thought it was important to have two big events during Earth Day week, so the addition of ECO Encore is perfect.”
Another major goal that ECO Agency had was to measure its impact on the community. As a result, members got more involved with public policy issues, such as waste management. On campus, ECO has encouraged paper reduction and par-
ticipated in Campus Race to Zero Waste where students diverted pounds of trash from entering landflls through recycling and composting. Members also worked with local organizations, including Miami Waterkeeper, by attending their annual speaker panel featuring the organization’s CEO Rachel Silverstein and Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
“The mentality of the subcommittee chairs has shifted more towards working on highly impactful projects that may not get the same number of likes or views but are really going to increase the sustainability of our school and community,” McMullen said.
As for next year, Todd is looking to keep ECO’s larger projects and community involvements at the same scale throughout the summer while planning new proposals for the fall.
Sylas Anand and Nora Engel plant milkweed seeds to support monarch butterfies at an Eco Agency and UM Community Garden event on April 15 at the Sustainability Garden.
“The one thing I’ve noticed with ECO is that we think of these really grand ideas, but by the time the end of the school year comes around, they get lost over the summer,” Todd said. “My goal is to make sure we keep our attainable ideas going, even if it just means emailing facilities every couple weeks to remind them of our plans for the fall.”
ECO Agency is taking its presence to the next level, not only for Earth Month, but with every project they incorporate into campus life.
PhiDE Anatomy Fashion Show raises nearly $10,000 for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital
By Daniella Krasney Staf Writer
Pre-medical student organization Phi Delta Epsilon raised $9,836 for local Nicklaus Children’s Hospital at its annual philanthropic event Sunday night.
The Anatomy Fashion Show, themed “Survival of the Phittest” drew inspiration from the hit reality show Survivor. Members selected as models were placed into 8 tribes, each tribe portraying a different organ system.
“There is nothing like the feeling of seeing all of my friends and other students working together to run a fun and beautiful event,” said Carolina Seixas, PhiDE’s vice president of fnance. “By collaborating with the University and countless local and even international businesses, we are able to put together an entertaining show that people look forward to all year long to make a real difference.”
Phi Delta Epsilon is a co-ed, pre-professional medical fraternity at the University of Miami that trains future physicians of integrity through the founding principles of philanthropy, deity, education and equity.
All proceeds from the event went directly towards Children’s Miracle Network supporting Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, conveniently located just two miles from UM’s Coral Gables campus. Corey Silberglied, president of PhiDE,
emphasized the meaningful connection between fundraising and service at the hospital, an important experience for training future doctors.
“Everything that we do in Phi Delta Epsilon is for the kids,” Silberglied said. “[In] our chapter we’re able to see the fruition of our work come 5-10 minutes down the road, and we’re able to send our members regularly over there to tour, volunteer and work with the kids at the hospital.”
Mira Sayegh, a member of PhiDE and a sophomore studying microbiology, says that modeling was an experience that helped put the importance of the event into perspective.
“It was something that was defnitely out of my comfort zone, but it was very validating to see how much we were able to raise,” she said. “Participating in that way made it more fun and rewarding.”
She says that the near $10,000 total was surprising but ultimately a testament to the work of the event’s fnance committee and the power of the cause.
“I did not realize we would raise that much,” she said. “Never in my life did I think we would raise almost $10,000. It just
shows how hard the fnance team worked on putting on such an impactful event.”
More than 20 businesses sponsored the event, including Chick-fl-A, Prime and SoulCycle. Donated items were distributed as raffes, silent auction items and giveaways, which played a key role in raising funds for the event’s overall total.
Ainsley Eckoff, a sophomore and fnancial outreach chair, worked tirelessly throughout the semester to secure sponsorships for the event. She says she is proud to lead these efforts, emphasizing how much local support contributed to the event’s success.
“This event would not have been possible without the generous donations from businesses across South Florida,” Eckoff said. “Many local businesses offered generous donations because it’s an impact that they can really see.”
Sayegh ultimately won the People’s Choice award for her crowd-pleasing performance as the digestive system and her heartfelt connection to the cause. She says that the event reminded her that fnding time to give back to the community is important, regardless of how busy her
pre-medical studies may be.
“I think that we all kind of forget how easy it is to do something so impactful,” the sophomore said. “Spending just an hour of our Sunday night having a fun fashion show can have such a life-changing impact on treatment and the livelihood of kids.”
Eckoff hopes that her role as the leader of the philanthropy committee for newer members inspires the next generation of serviceoriented leaders in the chapter and beyond.
“The committee allows the new class to reach out to businesses and contribute to the event,” Eckoff said. “I feel like the fnance team and PhiDE in general is a platform for more leadership in the community if students fnd that they have a niche for this or that they really enjoy service.”
While pre-medical students are often worried about their next exam, AFS serves as a reminder that the future of medicine relies just as much on service as it does on knowledge.
Read more online at themiamihurricane.com.
Samantha Brooks // Contributed Photo Nervous system models, Ashawncia Martin (left), Ashley Armstrong (middle) and Mojo Ojo (right), line up for their turn on the runway at the Newman Alumni Center on Apr 13, 2025.
Jenny Jacoby // Contributed Photo
On deep sea mining : Are we rushing or stalling?
THE AFFIRMATIVE
By Paulina Barnjak Staff Writer
In the age of accelerating climate change, collapsing ecosystems and vanishing biodiversity, humanity finds itself in a familiar position: standing on the brink of disaster with a shovel in one hand and a corporate lobbyist whispering in your ear. We’ve scorched the land, polluted the skies and now — naturally — we’ve decided to take the destruction underwater. The deep sea is one of the last truly wild places on Earth. It’s not just “some water with rocks” – it’s a labyrinth of alien life, ancient coral gardens and microbial species. And we’ve explored less of it than we
THE NEGATIVE
By Dylan Long Contributing Writer
In the face of climate breakdown, critical mineral shortages and supply chains more fragile than my roommate’s Wi-Fi, we don’t have time to hit snooze on innovation. Supporters want you to believe that a moratorium is a wise pause, a calm, responsible deep breath. But it’s not. It’s a fullbody nap at the worst possible moment. It hands the keys to authoritarian regimes hoarding terrestrial minerals like they’re the final boss in a battery-powered video game.
Let’s be clear: the deep sea is not some mystical Atlantis with mermaids singing protest songs. It’s a legitimate solution — one that could reduce rainforest destruction, boost scientific discovery, and help us stop burning dinosaur juice.
If we delay now, we don’t just risk the climate — we leave developing nations behind, cede critical materials to geopolitical rivals and bury the future in a bureaucratic time capsule
have the surface of Mars. So what’s our plan? Fire up the underwater bulldozers and hope for the best?
Let’s be clear: this isn’t science fiction. In a few months, companies could start industrializing the ocean floor with all the grace and foresight of a toddler with a chainsaw.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Instead, we can implement a 10-year moratorium on mining in the international seabed to give science, governance and maybe even common sense a chance to catch up.
These ecosystems on the ocean floor are slow-growing, hyper-specialized, and uniquely vulnerable. Once disturbed, they may never recover.
Deep-sea mining churns the seafloor with massive machines, kicking up toxic sediment plumes, and releasing heavy metals, and blanketing organisms in a chemical fog. According to a 2023 article in NPJ
labeled “Do Not Open Until Crisis.”
We should not enact a 10-year moratorium on mining in the international seabed.
The clean energy transition depends on critical minerals found in abundance in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone of the Pacific seabed. According to the ISA and the Metals Company, the CCZ contains more of these minerals than all known reserves on land.
These nodules form over millions of years, untouched by humans, and now offer a cleaner, concentrated alternative to the land-based mining that has devastated tropical forests, displaced Indigenous communities, and fueled armed conflicts.
Here’s the kicker: ocean nodules contain fewer toxic tailings, require no deforestation, and use less water to process. In fact, a 2022 study in Journal of Cleaner Production finds deepsea polymetallic nodules generate 70% fewer carbon emissions per ton of nickel compared to land mining. A moratorium doesn’t protect the planet — it just shifts the destruction from ocean to land, often in places already suffering from extractive exploitation.
Delaying seabed access also makes the West more dependent on terrestrial
(Nature Publish Group) Ocean Sustainability, full net cost analyses reveal that deep-sea mining causes “dramatically underestimated” longterm environmental damage — much of it unknown and likely irreversible. That means when you destroy them, you’re not hitting pause on nature – you’re hitting delete. There is no undo button, no recovery timeline and no rehabilitation program.
The risk is made worse by institutional uncertainty. As of March 2025, the International Seabed Authority still hasn’t finalized regulations. Yet Nauru has announced its intention to apply for a permit in June — meaning we are weeks away from letting companies rip into the seafloor without finalized environmental rules. If permits are granted now, we risk locking in low standards, rushed approvals and a dangerous precedent for lawless extraction in a space that’s supposed
mining monopolies – especially China, which currently controls over 70% of rare earth processing according to the US Geological Survey. A moratorium locks us out of diversification, reinforces supply chain bottlenecks, and leaves green industries vulnerable to price shocks and coercion.
Climate change is not patient. The clock is ticking, and a 10-year moratorium isn’t a pause — it’s paralysis.
But this isn’t just about minerals; it’s about fairness. The real injustice lies in denying the potential improvement of developing nations across the seabed.
Small island nations like Nauru, Tonga and Kiribati aren’t just passive observers in the deep-sea debate — they’re among the most active voices calling for access. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the seabed is governed as the “common heritage of humankind,” meaning its resources are supposed to benefit everyone, not just the countries with the loudest environmental lobbies.
The freeze also undermines scientific knowledge. Every exploration in the CCZ yields new data, new species and improved mining techniques. If we halt all activity for a decade, we
to be governed for the “common heritage of humankind.”
A 10-year moratorium buys us time to finish the science, finalize rules and to understand what we’re about to lose. But this isn’t just a story about biodiversity — it’s about global equity. Because the rush to mine the seabed is also a rush to deepen injustice.
Supporters of seabed mining frame it as necessary for the energy transition. They argue we need cobalt, nickel and rare earth metals for batteries and wind turbines. But this is a dangerous myth. According to a 2024 joint report from Earthworks and the Institute for Sustainable Futures, we already have enough land-based reserves and recycling potential to meet more than 90% of projected demand for energy transition minerals by 2040.
And make no mistake — deep-sea
mining doesn’t just harm ecosystems. It exports environmental risk onto the world’s most vulnerable nations. The companies pushing hardest are backed by Western financiers but hide behind permits sponsored by small island nations like Nauru – countries made economically dependent by colonial histories and now pressured to choose between economic survival and ecological ruin.
A moratorium disrupts this pattern. It forces wealthier nations to invest in ethical sourcing, robust recycling, and land-mining reform instead of treating the ocean as a geopolitical escape hatch.
We are standing at a turning point. Mining hasn’t started yet. We still have a choice. Do we plunge into the unknown, damaging ecosystems we can’t repair? Or do we pause and proceed only when science, justice, and international law are truly ready?
Joel Wainberg // Staff Designer
don’t get better science — we get a research blackout at the exact moment we need more data to shape effective environmental regulations. And finally, claims that the system is flawed aren’t a reason to shut it down — they’re a reason to improve it. Reforming the ISA, enhancing transparency, and raising environmental standards are all viable paths forward. But a moratorium? That’s just postponing opportunity for sci-
ence, for equity and for the nations that have waited long enough. Deep-sea mining holds risk — but so does inaction. Every year we wait, we entrench land-based extraction, delay climate targets, and withhold opportunity from the nations that need it most. A blanket moratorium is not environmental justice. It is scientific sabotage, economic exclusion and geopolitical short-sightedness.
From classroom to newsroom: Where do the women go ?
By Madeline Darby Asst. Opinion Editor
At TMH, both the editor-in-chief and the managing editor are women, leading a predominantly female editorial team — including myself.
Since this was the first newsroom I was ever introduced to, I didn’t think twice about it. The female-led TMH newsroom felt like the natural order of things, a reflection of an evolving news industry.
But when you look at the number of women pursuing journalism degrees compared to the number actually working in the field, the cracks begin to show. Despite progress in some areas, the newsroom remains a largely male-dominated space, with much work still ahead.
Today, female journalists still navigate pay disparities, harassment and gender-based barriers that pio neering women in newsrooms fought to end decades ago. Addressing this issue requires a twofold solution: news organizations must work harder to reform the industry, and colleges must better prepare women to navigate and succeed within it.
As a journalism student at UM, I look around and see my peers running editorial sections at TMH, producing award-winning shows for UMTV and dominating the sidelines as sports report ers. They’re ambitious, driven and confident — ready to graduate and take on the world.
ing to know that many of these talented women will enter an industry that still struggles to make space for them, especially in leadership roles.
The reality is the professional world we’re stepping into doesn’t reflect the promise we see in college newsrooms.
Although women outnumber men in journalism programs, recent research reveals that women are more likely to leave the industry before their male counterparts. Each year, over 66% of journalism grads are women, but they account for just 33% of the media industry.
Many wonder what’s fueling this disparity. The answer is simple: disappointment.
Many women who entered the field in the
2000s did so with the expectation that the problems earlier generations encountered had long disappeared, only to be disillusioned when they found the power structure still skewed heavily male.
“Everyone says they left because they had children, but it’s not true. They left because of unfulfilled expectations,” said Gail Evans, the highest-ranking female executive at CNN.
One key factor is the lack of upward mobility for women. A 2024 Reuters Institute study revealed that, despite women making up 40% of journalists in the US, only 24% of top editors in 240 news outlets across five continents are women.
Many attribute the exodus of women from
challenges of work-life balance. But it’s not about motherhood — it’s about demanding fair pay, a safe work environment and equal opportunities for advancement.
It’s not the women that need to change; it’s the industry. After all, why stay in a job where you are overlooked, underpaid and underappreciated?
As the gender pay gap globally approaches 20%, women in journalism are no exception and are consistently paid less than their male counterparts. The International Federation of Journalists attributed this disparity in newsrooms to the poor presence of women in senior, highlypaid positions.
That’s why it’s so dishearten-
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Furthermore, sexism and harassment are still embedded in many newsroom cultures, making it difficult, and sometimes unsafe, for women to do their jobs. Women are disproportionately targeted by sexual harassment and at least 73% of female journalists experience online violence, a driving factor for younger women journalists leaving the news industry today.
The challenges don’t stop at entry or mid-level positions.
Even women who break through to leadership roles face persistent gender biases and impossible double standards. Susan Goldberg, former editor-in-chief of National Geographic Magazine, believes that there are “so many more ways for men to be a leader” and “so many more paths of acceptable behavior for men.”
Newsrooms must take a more proactive stance in closing the pay gap, safeguarding journalists and fostering female leadership. At the same time, universities should equip aspiring female journalists with a realistic understanding of the industry, so they enter the workforce prepared rather than disillusioned.
This prompts the question: how can professors and universities prepare the next generation of female journalists without discouraging them from pursuing the profession?
Above all, be honest. Prepare them for the realities of male-dominated newsrooms, while reaffirming they belong in them, especially in the seats traditionally reserved for men. Women in leadership have the power to transform newsroom cultures, and when educators reframe obstacles as fuel rather than setbacks, they can empower the next generation. As female journalists, we carry forward the legacy of trailblazers who broke newsroom barriers in the ’80s and ’90s and now see promise in the next generation.
“They understand their importance and their value in a work environment. I see this generation understanding their power, which I think is transformative,” said O’Brian, who served as the senior vice president for ABC News.
So, the next time you find yourself in a female-dominated journalism class, editorial meeting or control room, remind yourself, this is not reality, but it can be.
reach a member of the staff visit themiamihurricane.com’s contact page.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Tumble into the magic of imagination with ‘Seussical: the Musical’
By Emily Anderson & Tracy Ramos Contributing Writers
Bold, vivid and teeming with whimsy, “Seussical: The Musical” celebrates standing up for what one believes in. From its vibrant setting to its jubilant musical and dance numbers, the production captures the hearts of adults and children alike.
Set to be performed at the Jerry Herman Theatre from April 22-26, “Seussical: The Musical” follows Horton the Elephant as he fights to protect Whoville, a tiny world on a speck of dust, while navigating judgement, love and responsibility.
the others, I was in the ensembles and was off stage at times. As Horton, I’m on stage nearly the entire time. I’m grateful to play a lead character before I graduate this semester.”
“Seussical: The Musical,” is a musical comedy written by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. The musical draws from Dr. Seuss’ books, “Horton Hears a Who!,” “Gertrude McFuzz” and “Horton Hatches the Egg.” The musical debuted on Broadway in 2000 and ran until 2001. It closed due to a $10.5 million loss. The production has survived because of schools and regional theaters producing it.
The Cat in the Hat frequently appears throughout the musical as the narrator and several minor characters, including JoJo’s friend. Originally written as a male character, JoJo is the child of Mr. and Mrs. Mayor of Whoville. The production at the Jerry Herman Theatre features a female JoJo, played by Gabby Parker.
The musical is directed and choreographed by Kyle Pleasant, a guest educator from New York. Pleasant is an adjunct professor at Marymount Manhattan College and has taught students for nearly two decades. His work has appeared on ABC’s “The View” and at the White House for First Lady Michelle Obama. He said he hopes the production will entertain and also inspire audiences to think critically about the world.
“I think of Dr. Seuss as the original Pixar,” Pleasant said.
as interactive props and vivid backdrops, allowing the actors to climb, hide and engage with the on-stage world around them.
While the pieces themselves remain stationary, the use of dynamic lighting vividly brings the on-stage world to life. Lighting designer Arnold Bueso explores shape and texture, matching the mood and movement of each scene.
During the underwater sequence of “It’s Possible (McElligot’s Pool),” the shapes morph into fluid, circular patterns that mimic the current of the ocean. Bubbles float across the stage, adding a magical element that matches the scene’s dreamy tone. In contrast, numbers like “Biggest Blame Fool” transform the lighting into more angular and strobelike patterns, energizing the space and highlighting the choreography.
Each dance number perfectly matches the production’s jubilant and childlike spirit, with the cast using movement to bring life to every scene. The “Monkey Around” number stands out with its playful, dance-battle-like energy, adding liveliness to an otherwise darker scene.
Ben Pollak, who plays The Grinch, said he’s developed his dance skills with Pleasant’s guidance.
“I had little dance experience before Seussical,” said Pollak, a musical theater and architecture double major.
“Kyle has helped me a lot and inspired me to take a dance class next semester.”
he delivers carries a strong, authoritative one, and his clever use of physical comedy adds to the overall playful, imaginative spirit of the show.
Montoto said his character and the musical’s creativity resonate with him.
“Jojo is known for her wild imagination,” Montoto said. “As a kid, I was a lot like Jojo, and when I became an adult, I learned the importance of organization. I feel like both personalities are reconciled in me.”
After enrolling in the theatre arts program five years ago, Montoto was able to attend the university thanks to his wife’s position, which provides him with tuition remission. Montoto, 46, said that in his 20s he never imagined performing in a musical. Now, he hopes to make a career out of it.
powerful emotion –– funny, moving or tear-jerking in turn.
Missey said playing The Cat in the Hat has given her a fresh, unique challenge.
“My character is kind of a being of chaos,” the musical theatre major said. “It’s very different from other roles I’ve played because I’ve never done this much on-stage improv. I’m also the narrator and so I’m interacting with the audience, which has been interesting.”
For Nathaniel Bergman, who plays Horton, stepping into the role of Horton was a personal discovery.
“I never knew about Horton as a kid,” said Bergman, a senior musical theatre major. “When I got the role, I did research and found we are a lot alike. He has a big heart and expresses a wide range of emotions, just like me.”
Bergman said playing Horton is a milestone because it’s his first lead role.
“I’ve been in five other productions by the department,” Bergman said. “In
“He wrote about the struggles young people go through to be seen and heard and about other things. He translated complex human experiences, making them palatable for kids and adults alike. I hope audiences have fun but also think about the world, as Dr. Seuss invites his readers to do.”
Dr. Seuss’s wonder and layered storytelling comes to life visually through the show’s scenic design. Scenic Designer Brandon Newton and Assistant Scenic Designer Michelle Saguinsin designed an intricate set. They imaginatively used each of the set pieces, creating an immersive environment that transports the audience into the Jungle of Nool. Platforms, staircases and rolling structures double
“There’s something in this show for everyone .”
Jordan Jones
“Seussical” Production Manager
Hector Montoto’s commanding vocals and sharp comedic timing as General Genghis Khan Schmitz in “The Military” perfectly capture the overthe-top nature of the scene. Every line
“The other day, I was talking to John Berst, the music director,” Montoto said. “I was looking at the stage and said, ‘in moments like this, I feel like pinching myself because I can’t believe I’m at UM and part of Seussical.’”
That same excitement is reflected in extraordinary performances from Joy Missey as the Cat in the Hat, Leandrea Brooks as Gertrude and Naphtailda Jean Charles as the Sour Kangaroo. Each of them bring powerful vocals and distinct personality to their roles, dominating the space and demanding attention from every audience member. And, regardless of the song’s tone, the emotional weight of their performances is undeniable. Each note lands with
Like the vocals, the costuming ties everything together, serving as the perfect icing on top of an already fun, eccentric cake. Iconic attire, like the Sour Kangaroo’s bright, bold dress and paired hat, the Cat in the Hat’s sparkly tuxedo and Gertrude’s cosmic orange tail reflect each character’s personality and emotional journey without overshadowing the story.
“Seussical: The Musical” delivers a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience. From laugh-out-loud comedy to heartfelt moments, the show reminds its audience that wonder, joy and heart are timeless, no matter one’s age.
“There’s something in this show for everyone,” production stage manager Jordan Jones said. “If I could give it an appropriate age range, it’d be for anyone five to 99.”
Whether you’re looking for a playful take on a classic Broadway production or simply a fun and entertaining outing for the whole family, “Seussical: The Musical” hits all the right notes.
Melissa Borges // Contributing Photographer
The ensemble of ‘Seussical: The Musical’ sings a group number during a dress rehearsal at the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre on April 19, 2025.
Melissa Borges Contributing Photographer
Senior Joy Missey stars as Cat in the Hat during a dress rehearsal of ‘Seussical: The Musical’ at the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre on April 19, 2025.
Coachella’s fashion hits, misses and musical moments that made us pause
By Jenna Simone Staff Writer
As the Coachella Valley dust settles and the Instagram stories fade into memory, Coachella 2025 leaves behind a festival season full of unforgettable performances, viral fashion statements and a fair share of controversy. From jaw-dropping headliners to questionable outfit choices, this year’s event was anything but forgettable.
Let’s break down the highs, the lows and the “what were they thinking?” moments of this year’s music and fashion showdown.
one of the few who could pull off such a chaotic ensemble.
“She kind of gave pirate vibes, which was different but definitely up to par with her style,” said Leah Cohen, a University of Miami freshman and finance major.
Known for his consistent Coachella slays, James Charles once again delivered. His day 3 look featured knit details, a pashmina and embellished jeans. Fans appreciated his creativity and praised him for prioritizing fun, original content over the saturated “day in my life” vlog trend.
He posted GRWM videos along with raw moments of him enjoying himself and dancing at the festival.
Machine Gun Kelly made a surprise onstage appearance with Three 6 Mafia and Travis Barker, just weeks after welcoming a baby with Megan Fox. Not only did his appearance at the festival shock viewers, but so did his outfit. He wore a yellow camo jacket over a black tank, which fans called disjointed and inauthentic to his usual style.
Young and upcoming TikTok creator Katie Fang was one of the weekend’s biggest fashion misses. She wore a sparkly gold top, a ruffled leather mini skirt, a black cowboy hat, and studded ankle boots. The mix of bold pieces didn’t seem to quite go together cohesively.
terpiece. Divided into four acts, the show merged her identity as both “Lady” and “Gaga,” blending light and dark, softness and edge. Dressed in a series of dramatic looks — from a blue gown and crown-like headpiece to a massive red dress hiding a full dance troupe — Gaga put storytelling and spectacle front and center.
Highlights included her dramatic transition from her hit songs “Bloody Mary” to “Abracadabra,” as her 270-meter red skirt lifted to reveal dancers inside. Gaga’s set was a statement on the power of human creativity in a world overrun by algorithm-fed, AI-driven content.
abruptly due to reported technical issues. Fans took to social media to express disappointment, with many speculating about mismanagement and poor planning. A rep later confirmed the early end was unplanned, but Megan has not issued a statement.
There was a moment in the performance when Megan had to ask for help with her mic. She said: “Somebody better come out here and fix my m----rf---ing microphone!” A worker then got on stage and tried to fix her microphone pack.
“[Alix Earle] kind of gave pirate vibes, which was different but definitely up to par with her style .”
Leah Cohen
UM freshman finance major
The fashion University of Miami alum Alix Earle sparked widespread discussion with her Coachella looks. While her outfits on days 1 and 2 were wellreceived — featuring layered belts, dark metallic tones and statement jewelry — her day 3 outfit raised eyebrows. The mix of cheetah print, fur boots and bold Jersey-inspired elements was met with confusion, though some fans defended her as
Charli D’Amelio also made her mark this year. After going viral last year for a see-through top, she drew more attention this year with a sheer outfit featuring revealing cutouts and see-through material over her chest.
She got some hate due to her out fit being in some ways perceived as “inappropriate.” However other fans perceived her outfit as a power move, demonstrating that women’s body parts do not need to be as sexu alized as they are.
Fans joked in D’Amelio’s comments, nicknaming this year’s festival “nipchella.” D’Amelio then clapped back with a sarcastic response, similar to one she made last year, in a TikTok video she posted just days after the festival.
“I just really need to admit this to you guys. I actually do have nipples… that’s really all I can say about this right now. I’m sorry,” said D’Amelio.
Kylie Jenner and Timothée Cha lamet were seen kissing and were dressed far more casually than ex pected. Though criticized for their understated looks, the couple ig nored the noise and enjoyed the festival, even sneaking away during Travis Scott’s set.
Another A-list celebrity, Paris Hilton, wore multiple long dresses, dancing and skipping around the Coachella grass field. Videos sur faced on TikTok of her playfully skipping away from her security guard as he chased her.
Viewers criticized her outfit as haphazard, claiming it looked
Influencer Alix Earle called out the Coachella audience in disappointment during Gaga’s set on
was a performance-art mas-
lion’s anticipated performance ended
Megan continued but did not realize she had gone overtime. She was getting ready to perform the last song of the night, “Mamushi,” when the stage went black. You could hear her say: “Don’t do the hotties like that B---h, they said we gotta go!” She was then granted only a few more seconds to finish her performance.
Rising star Benson Boone had a defining moment when he joined Queen’s Brian May for a rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Boone impressed the crowd with his vocals and athleticism — landing multiple flips mid-performance — and earned praise as one of the festival’s breakout stars.
While Boone’s flip gained a lot of attention and praise on social media, concertgoers and fans online did not seem to share the same excitement about Brian May’s appearance. People speculate that the Gen Z crowd was either not aware of May or aware of the significance of his cameo.
Boone wore a sparkly light blue custom Dolce & Gabbana jumpsuit. The jumpsuit was viewed as a fashion risk, yet the majority of people believe he pulled it off. People also claimed that his rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody” was moving.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone attempt to cover Bohemian Rhapsody before. Let alone nail it,” a Reddit comment said.
Coachella 2025 proved that, love it or hate it, the festival is still an amazing experience where music, fashion and fame collide in the California desert.
Easter egg hunt draws big turnout at Merrick farmers market
By Bri Pearson Assistant A&E Editor
The weekly Farmers & Artisans’ Market at The Shops at Merrick Park had a bit more buzz than usual on Easter Sunday. What’s normally a laid-back farmer’s market turned into a full-on Easter celebration thanks to a surprise Easter event hosted by La Roca Miami, a local Christian church.
It started off slow with only a handful of families trickling in, but by early afternoon, Merrick Park was packed. Kids, parents, couples and curious shoppers crowded the walkways, not totally sure what they were lining up for.
There were no big signs or banners, just word of mouth, but eventually it became clear: a free Easter Egg Hunt and visit from the Easter Bunny open to the public, with over 10,000 eggs donated by church members. The event unfolded right in the heart of the market, blending seamlessly with the colorful stalls and community vibe.
Returning vendors welcomed the
added excitement, as the festive energy brought in bigger crowds and turned an ordinary Sunday into a memorable day at Merrick Park.
Ana, a La Roca Miami volunteer, said everything from candy and decorations to face-painting booths and Easter Bunny costumes was donated by church members.
“This is all for the kids,” Ana, explained. “No one gets paid for this. The games, baskets, the bunny - we do this for the community and to celebrate this day.”
The event included Easterthemed stations for children such as puzzle tables, board games and basket decorating.though the egg hunt remained the biggest draw. By 1:15 p.m., the line of families waiting to join stretched around the shops.
One visitor, University of Miami student Kate Sinha, said she had no idea the event was even happening.
“I just came for the market, but I’m so glad I saw it,” Sinha said, holding a cup of hand-picked strawberries topped with Dubai chocolate and pistachio dressing. “It’s rare to find strawberries that are so fresh this time of year.”
Before the celebration took off, the weekly market opened as usual at 11 a.m. Located at 358 San Lorenzo Avenue and run by Florida Fresh Markets, the Merrick Park Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market features a rotation of local vendors offering produce, coffee, desserts, and homemade goods.
Emanuel Martinez, 26, founder of “Neo Bean Coffee,” was one of the newer vendors benefiting from the added foot traffic. What began as a personal project to help with his focus and overall health eventually turned into a full-fledged business.
“I’ve been drinking coffee since I was a kid but always had trouble focusing,” he said. Martinez said he wanted a healthier alternative to his daily coffee, which led him to start researching ways to improve it.
“I started adding mushroom extracts to my own blends and eventually began roasting my own beans.”
At first, Martinez made the product just for himself, but after sharing it with friends and family who raved about the taste and benefits, he realized he could turn it into something bigger.
“They started asking where they could buy it,” he said. “That’s when I knew I had something worth selling.” Since launching in January, “Neo Bean Coffee” has become a regular fixture at markets around Miami, including Zoo Miami and Merrick Park.
His blends, which combine coffee grounds with MCT oil and health-boosting mushroom extracts, are also available through online subscriptions, which has also been a success.
Continuing on the path of health and nutrition, the market had many more options. At “Barbycakes,” Barbara Marcano, 46, has been selling gluten-free, sugar-free baked goods made with monk fruit and almond flour.
“I used to do regular sweets,” said Marcano, a culinary-trained baker. “But once I moved to Miami, I saw a demand for healthier alternatives, so I changed everything.”
Marcano has been running her business for eight years and currently rotates through various markets in the area. She’s been part of the Merrick lineup for the past seven months and also offers delivery. Some of her treats are even vegan, made by request.
Longtime vendors, like a Homestead-based fruit stand that handpicks and sells pesticide-free produce, were also enjoying the busy Sunday. The small family-run business, started by a husband and wife duo 12 years ago, is known for selling fresh, homegrown fruit - including carefully hand-seeding pomegranate seeds.
“We’ve been coming to Merrick for years,” one worker said. “We love it here,” The couple travels from Homestead to sell at markets throughout Miami, making Merrick one of their more established stops.
Other vendors like “Dynasty Guacamole” saw a boost in business as well thanks to the Easter event pop-up.
“This is a great spot,” said Adolfo, 25, brother of the owner. “The farmers market’s been the best for getting healthy food in front of peo -
ple who actually care about it.”
“Dynasty Guacamole,” which has been featured in Sarasota Magazine, offers guacamole, mango salsa, ceviche and other gluten-free dips made with no added sugar. The business started four to five years ago and has since grown a strong following across Miami farmers markets.
“The farmers market’s been the best for getting healthy food in front of people who actually care about it.”
Adolfo Brother of the owner of Dynasty Guacamole
“We just want to spread happiness,” Adolfo said. “Our food helps people instead of harming.”
The overall event turnout reflected the power of simple acts of kindness and how giving without expecting anything in return can bring people together. From church volunteers donating time and supplies to small business owners sharing their passion with the community, the day served as a reminder that creating meaningful experiences doesn’t require big headlines, just a willingness to show up.
With La Roca planning to return next year, the Easter event may become a cherished tradition at Merrick Park, continuing to unite neighbors, families and vendors through generosity and shared joy.
Bri Pearson // Contributed Photo
Comedian Connor Wood talks lying on LinkedIn at the Rathskeller
By Emil Salgado Vazquez Staff Writer
Connor Wood, Vice’s “Accidental Girls’ Girl Comedian,” gave a phenomenal show Monday night at the Rathskeller. Wood previously visited Miami Improv in October, returning to share his jokes with Canes.
“It went really great,” Sal Puma, the Rathskeller Advisory Board chair, said. “We had a long line and we didn’t have to cut anyone off either. People loved him, and we had a giant crowd. Couldn’t be any better.”
The line was filled with people buzzing with excitement, waiting over an hour to get into the Rat. At 8 p.m., the show got on its way as Maggie Winters, a comedian and internet personality on tour with Wood, opened for him with a 15-minute set.
“Maggie was amazing,” Puma said. “I didn’t know her until we hired her because she came with Wood, but I definitely do follow her socials now. She’s really funny and she was very conversational, not
awkward at all.”
Her set began with a lot of crowd work, and made people laugh with her jokes about ducks, clubbing in Miami and Alix Earle. She also asked about the crowd’s majors of study and gave her own thoughts about college.
With five minutes left in her set, she voiced her complaints about Disney’s Paris theme park.
“The French don’t deserve a theme park,” Winters said. “Their best ride: smoking a cigarette with Olaf.”
Lauren Ferrer // Contributing Photographer
Comedians Connor Wood and Maggie Winters pose with Hurricane Production’s Rathskeller Advisory Board after the spring comedy show at the Rathskeller on Monday, April 14.
She worked the crowd well, making them laugh seemingly every five seconds.
With the end of her set at 8:15, she welcomed Connor Wood to the stage to the cheers of the crowd.
“He was just as nervous as I was,” Puma said. “But it was great. He did an amazing job, and people loved it.”
Jolly as ever, wearing his signature green hat with a W on it, but missing one important thing: His joke journal. Fortunately, he felt safe in the Rathskeller once he confirmed that it was a campus bar.
After loosening up the crowd a little, he began his crowd work, asking about people’s majors, goals and future plans. He also gave some advice about using LinkedIn: Lie.
“Nobody checks what you say,” Wood said. “Lie on your applications, but just delete your old tweets.”
He also talked about what people he looks like: A lesbian, a terracotta pot and American soccer star Megan Rapinoe. During a joke about smoking weed, he was interrupted by someone saying “good evening”
over the speaker.
“God?” Wood said. “Sorry, I must be high right now too.”
Wood had a fun time interacting with several law students in the crowd, getting comments from them a few times and having a fun time messing with them about how boring law school is.
He ended his set recreating his middle school dance, where he asked a girl to grind on him along to the song “No Hands” by Waka Flocka Flame.
“He was perfect,” Puma said. “He did amazing crowd work and everything worked out.”
After his set, Wood took some time to have a Q&A session, where we has was asked about his red flags (narcissism), his experience at the Grammy Awards (hanging out with the cast of Love Island) and about other topics he’s discussed on his podcast, Brooke and Connor Make a Podcast.
Both Winters’ and Wood’s sets were top tier. Winters definitely deserves herself a longer set, while Wood continues to prove that he can excel as a headline comedian.
Summer movie mania: Your guide to this season’s cinematic lineup
By Vee Ngunda Contributing Writer
With summer quickly approaching, it’ll be nice to have a break from the academic season and enjoy some summer flicks.
The coming months will be booming with big-hit Disney, Marvel and Dreamworks releases that span from remakes to original films. Here’s a list of eight thrilling movies you won’t want to miss this summer.
Lilo & Stitch – May 23, 2025
Following the recent release of “Snow White,” another Disney live-action is hitting theaters this year as the beloved “Lilo & Stitch” gets a remake.
“Lilo & Stitch” is a touching narrative of Lilo, an outcast who adopts Stitch, an alien on the run from an intergalactic federation.
Together, the two go on adventures
while learning the true meaning behind family. See if the live-action version can capture the heart that made the original a childhood staple.
How
to Train Your Dragon – June 13, 2025
A new live-action remake of Dreamwork’s “How to Train Your Dragon” will fly into theaters next. The movie is about a Viking teenager, Hiccup, who lives on an island where fighting dragons is the norm.
But, it turns out that things aren’t as they seem. Like Lilo & Stitch, this brand new take on the famous Dreamworks film will leave many eager to see if it lives up to its potential.
Elio – June 20, 2025
“Elio,” Pixar’s newest animated movie, is a whimsical, cosmic adventure. Watch Elio, an 11-year-old space fanatic, get transported to the Communiverse, an intergalactic organization with
aliens from across the universe.
Elio is mistakenly identified as Earth’s ambassador and must search for a way home while looking for his true purpose.
M3GAN 2.0 – June 27, 2025
“M3GAN 2.0” is the follow-up to the first film from2023. This film, set two years after the first, features a rogue, military artificial intelligence, Amelia, who has been slowly gaining self-awareness. Gemma, Amelia’s creator, has to resurrect M3GAN to stop this new threat. Viewers should prepare themselves as more technological horror ensues in this clash between artificial intelligences.
Superman – July 11, 2025
“Superman,” directed by James Gunn, is a soft reboot for the brand-new DC Universe. In this movie, Superman, played by David Corenswet, must balance his life between living as an alien Kryptonian and an everyday reporter
for The Daily Planet.
Fans of the iconic hero see this new iteration of Superman as not another origin story, but a deeper exploration of the character.
Jose Miguel Brenes
Contributing Designer
The Fantastic Four: First Steps –July 25, 2025
“Fantastic Four: First Steps” is the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s take on the story of the Fantastic Four, a group of scientists-turned-superheroes who must
face off against the evil Galactus.
Starring A-list actors like Pedro Pascal as Mister Fantastic, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, Vanessa Kirby as Susan Storm and Ralph Ineson as Galactus, this upcoming movie seems to have very promising expectations.
The Bad Guys 2 – August 1, 2025
“The Bad Guys 2” is the next installment in “The Bad Guys” franchise. This movie brings back Mr. Wolf and his gang of struggling, reformed criminals as they find themselves entangled in a daring heist led by the notorious Bad Girls.
Viewers can look forward to an animated movie filled with action and excitement.
From new animated movies and live-action remakes to cosmic adventures and superhero flicks, this summer is proving to offer a diverse range of stories for every movie lover.
Jai Lucas is the captain to guide Miami basketball through the era of NIL
By Luke Sims Co-Sports Editor
It’s the start of a new era for the University of Miami men’s basketball program. The winningest coach in program history, Jim Larrañaga, stepped down in the middle of his 14th season, only two seasons after the frst Final Four in program history.
“There’s one thing you’ve got to constantly ask yourself: Are you going to give everything you have — the commitment it deserves, 100% of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually?”
Larrañaga said to reporters. “Quite frankly, I’ve tried to do that through my life and my time here. But I’m exhausted. I’ve tried every which way to keep this going.”
“I owe it to our student athletes, our staff, and the University of Miami to make this move when my heart is no longer in the game,” Larrañaga said. “The university needs a new leader of the program, one who is adept at embracing the new world of intercollegiate athletics.”
A disheartening season of ’Canes basketball followed. There was no postseason for the Hurricanes this year. Miami didn’t win in the ACC for more than a month and fnished at the bottom of the ACC standings. Interim head coach Bill Courtney’s efforts did little to slow the spiral of a failing team.
“Going into this year, I felt like, ‘Ok, we need to get back to where we were.’”
Larrañaga said. “I have a great group of kids, so it’s not their problem. It’s the system now — or the lack of a system. I didn’t know how to navigate through this.”
Larrañaga followed the trend of experienced ACC coaches retiring, joining the likes of Duke’s Mike Krzyzewski, North Carolina’s Roy Williams, Virginia’s Tony Bennett and most recently, Florida State’s Leonard Hamilton.
“What shocked me was after we made it to the Final Four, just 18 months ago, the very frst time I met with the players, eight of them decided they were going to put their name in the portal and leave,”
Larrangaga said. “I said, ‘Don’t you like it here?’ They said, ‘No, I like it here, it’s great.’ But the opportunity to make money someplace else created a situation
Long
that you have to begin to ask yourself, as a coach, what is this all about? The answer is that it’s become professional.”
So Miami brought in someone who has the knowledge to navigate the new college basketball landscape — only he’s a stark contrast from his predecessor.
Enter new Miami basketball head coach Jai Lucas.
Lucas has a ton of work to do to get Miami back on track. Miami has already lost commits Matthew Able and Ben Ahmed. As of now, the Hurricanes have no high school recruits coming in next season, meaning Lucas will have to start from scratch with his new UM team. With the new landscape of college basketball, though, this is not uncommon.
“This is pretty cool,” Lucas said. “It’s like a deja vu moment. I’ve dreamed of this moment my whole life, and this is exactly what it looked like, so this is pretty amazing.”
Lucas has been around basketball his entire life. His father, John Lucas II, coached three NBA teams and had a long and successful career in both the NBA and NCAA.
Larrañaga was 75 when he decided to step down. Lucas is just 36 years old. Larrañaga was on his second head coaching gig before Lucas was even born. Unlike Larrañaga, who had almost 50 years of head coaching experience before retiring, Lucas has none. Lucas, however, does feature an impressive background of schools he previously worked and coached at. Lucas was at Texas for seven seasons before spending two at Kentucky and his recent two at Duke with Jon Scheyer.
“Coach Lucas is the best. I think these guys would tell you the impact that he’s made,” Scheyer said. “Jai is one of my best friends in the world. We are always going to be great and be able to navigate this. He’s a terrifc coach, terrifc person.”
The main driver of Lucas’s hire at Miami is his recruiting ability within the high school ranks and the transfer portal. Since Lucas transferred from Florida to Texas during his collegiate playing career, he’s familiar with the transferring process and how the transfer portal can be utilized by both players and coaches in the modern game.
Lucas played a part in the Blue Devils beating out the Hurricanes for their pledges of two highly-touted recruits from South Florida who attended local Miami Columbus High. Cameron and Cayden Boozer, sons of NBA star and Miami native Carlos Boozer are set to play for Duke next season.
The ’Canes have already reaped the benefts of Lucas’ recruiting prowess, landing fve-star prospect Shelton Henderson, who decommitted from Duke to play for Miami this fall.
Lucas’s skill and infuence in the recruiting world and his insight into NIL are the main reasons he’ll be the leader of Miami basketball for the foreseeable future.
Another reason that Miami fans can be excited about Lucas is his keen defensive mind. As the de facto defensive coordinator, Lucas helped to lead the Duke defense to the fourth-best adjusted defensive effciency mark in the country this past regular season, according to KenPom, a college basketball statistics tracker.
Among Division I teams, Miami’s defense fnished the 2024-25 season as the worst Power Four defense in the nation with an adjusted defensive effciency ranking of 336 out of 364.
“Defensively, our resistance to keep the other team out of the paint will be relentless,” Lucas said. “Our pursuit to make sure that every shot is contested will be relentless … I’m a defensive guy, so I just believe it is what wins championships, and that’s what we will hang our hat on.”
Miami went from having one of the oldest and most experienced coaches in college basketball to one of the youngest and most unproven. Lucas has tremendous shoes to fll as Larrañaga’s successor.
Only two seasons ago, Miami basketball was one game away from the National Championship. Lucas hopes to guide Miami through the uncertain waters of a new era of basketball in Coral Gables and back to our old heights.
“I am incredibly grateful and honored to be the next head coach at the University of Miami,” Lucas said. “Miami has everything you need to compete at the highest level — elite academics, a passionate fan base, and a commitment to excellence in athletics. Beyond that, the city of Miami has a rich culture and energy that makes this an incredibly special place. The history, diversity and passion for sports here are second to none.”
“I look forward to building on an incredible foundation and leading this program into an exciting new era. My family and I can’t wait to get to Coral Gables and get to work.”
weekend for ’Canes track and field results in big performances
By Shea McDonald Staf Writer
Hurricanes track and feld had an eventful weekend split up between the Mt. SAC Relays in California, the Wake Forest Invitational in North Carolina and the Tom Jones Invitational in Gainesville, Fla. With opportunities to show off all around the country, they made their mark.
Junior Edgar Campre got things started when he competed in the Mt. SAC Relays to land a score of 7646. This was not
a personal record, but it still was a strong start for Miami track and feld.
UM’s weekend continued with performances at the Tom Jones and Wake Forest Invitationals. Between the squads in Gainesville and Wake Forest, it was the women’s 4x400 in Gainesville that stood out the most. The relay made up of juniors Gabriella Grissom and Sanaa Hebron, freshman Serena Tate and graduate student Alyssa Robinson put together a time of 3:29.34, the fourth best of any college team participating and the sixth best time in the entire nation.
It wasn’t Grissom’s only action of the weekend, as she saw her first action in the 800m of the outdoor season and made the most of it. With a time of 2:02.95, she now holds the second-fastest time in school history. Grissom, the indoor 800m record holder, is now just a little over a second shy of breaking the outdoor record. As for the men in the event, Josh Jones, while in Wake Forest, continued to improve on his fifth-place time in the 800m, bringing it down to 1:49.50.
Individually, it was sophomore Maddie Scheier who made the biggest individual mark. With a time of 10:48.62, Scheier
broke the school record in the 3000m steeplechase, besting Bianca Banato’s record set back in 2022. Sticking with distance, Cormac O’Brien made his way into school history when he stepped up for the 10k. Previously outside the top fve, O’Brien’s time of 30:19.64 took him all the way to the second spot in Miami’s record books.
Elsewhere in Gainesville, junior George Franks moved his 200m time down to 20.92 seconds and moved into third place in UM history in the event. Closing out Friday, Prescott Noll’s time of 3:51.64 moved the freshman into ffth in the 1500m.
Senior Deisiane Teixeiera, who came home with a second-place fnish in the javelin throw with a 52.29 mark while in Gainesville. Competing in the discus, freshman Calea Jackson hit a new PR of 50.72 and got a fourth-place fnish. Rounding out the weekend, graduate student Christina Warren posted a 12.91m mark in the triple jump to end the jampacked weekend for the Hurricanes. Miami’s next action will come again between the LSU Invitational and East Coast Relays in Jacksonville from May 2-3.
Photo Courtesy of Dante Allen Miami basketball signee Dante Allen (pictured left) and UM head coach Jai Lucas (pictured right).
Miami’s Unrivaled sets the stage for the future of women’s basketball
By Regina Potenza Contributing Writer
Women’s sports, especially basketball, are surging in popularity. In 2024, the women’s NCAA fnals outdrew the men’s in viewership. Yet with limited U.S. opportunities, two WNBA stars saw a gap in the U.S. sports industry: last year, about half of the WNBA players joined foreign leagues in the offseason to supplement their income and gain more exposure.
Enter “Unrivaled” – a new, Miamibased league aimed at closing that gap. WNBA 2024 Defensive Player of the Year and Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier co-founded the league alongside two-time WNBA Finals MVP and New York Liberty player Breanna Stewart.
Unrivaled rules and format: a new kind of basketball
The Unrivaled League features a unique 3-on-3 format with six teams, known as “basketball clubs,” each comprising six players: Lunar Owls BC, Vinyl BC, Rose BC, Mist BC, Laces BC and Phantom BC.
A standard basketball court is 94 x 50 feet, while the Unrivaled court is 50 x 43 feet. Each game has four periods—the frst three are eight minutes long, shorter than the WNBA’s standard 10-minute quarters. The fourth period uses the Elam Ending, eliminating the game clock and introducing a “target score.” The leading team’s score has 8 points added to it, and the frst team to reach that number of points wins the game.
Other basketball competitions have used the Elam Ending, including NBA All-Star games and FIBA 3-on-3 competitions. Unrivaled Laces BC player Kayla McBride, also with the Minnesota Lynx, praised the format.
“So I’m just having fun with that, and I’m super competitive. So just trying to win every game, and I think the Elam Ending is really cool because now you’re playing for us,” McBride said. “You play for a game-winner every game. So I think it just brings out the best competitively in all of us. But as far as my game, like just having more space and being able to have the freedom to create my own shot from the outside but also get to the rim, it’s been a lot of fun.”
Rae Burrell, a forward for Vinyl BC and the Los Angeles Sparks, highlighted the fun of playing in Unrivaled.
“Just experience this together and knowing that we’re together as a team, whether we’re losing or winning, we’re all on the same page at all times,” Burrell said. “There’s really no point when we’re not on the same page, and it just makes you enjoy it even more, whether we’re losing or winning.”
Focus on player development and wellness
A major advantage for Unrivaled players is the opportunity to hone their skills without the stress of overseas travel while having access to top-tier training facilities and resources. Satou Sabally, a WNBA player for the Phoenix Mercury, called Unrivaled’s amenities a “game-changer,” noting the amenities and support system offer a more sustainable off-season experience.
“In between games, like people are able to rehab, people are able to use amazing resources that we usually are not provided with during the off-season,” Sabally said. “So that’s a big change. Like you spend a lot of money to stay in shape, but here you actually get paid to do what you’re the best at.”
Basketball legend Lisa Leslie praised the league for its exceptional support of players.
“All these moms have places where their children can attend,” Leslie said. “They have a spa where they can get hot and cold treatments. And they also have an institution where they can get facials and then a whole Sephora room, which is lovely. So, when you talk about frst class and doing it right, I think Unrivaled has really stepped up to the plate.”
The league also allows players to stay in the United States, reducing the physical and mental strain of playing overseas.
Sabally, who has played in Turkey during previous off-seasons, believes this will extend players’ careers by providing the resources they need to rest and recover.
“Also, in a sense, taking care of what we need to take care of in the off-season, like that’s big,” Sabally said. “Rather than going to China or going to Turkey, which I love playing in,” Sabally said. “They’re able to stay here and recover their bodies
so that they may actually be able to play fve years more than previously just because they are given more resources to rest.”
A new skill set for players
Unrivaled’s 3-on-3 format also develops a different skill set compared to 5-on-5 leagues. The fast-paced, defense-heavy nature of the game forces players to stay engaged on both ends of the court.
“It’s competitive. They’re playing full speed, full contact, and we are coming down to the wire here, so you can feel the intensity,” Brendan Glasheen, an Unrivaled and WNBA broadcast play-by-play commentator. “And at the end of the day, they’re all competitors, and they want to win. Yeah, I think fnding out how they ft into a fve-on-fve scheme, the beauty of this league and 3-on-3 is you can’t hide anybody offensively [or] defensively.”
Social media growth and player exposure
Thanks to platforms like TikTok, Unrivaled has enjoyed signifcant exposure, boosting the league’s visibility. Tiffany Hayes, a player for Laces BC and the Golden State Valkyries, emphasized how important social media is for growing the league.
“I think that a big thing is social media is defnitely helping push us,” Hayes said. “I mean, we’ve been on so many channels, I can’t even keep count of so many things.”
Unrivaled gives players a chance to showcase their personalities, which Hayes fnds refreshing.
“And it’s not just about basketball, but it’s also showing our personalities and how we are as people too,” Hayes said. “So I think that’s one of the better things that has come out of Unrivaled as well.”
While the social media virality of Unrivaled is an incredible growing opportunity for players’ personal brands as well. Angel Reese, one of the most notable current women’s basketball players, has faced challenges always being in the spotlight.
Reese talked about being able to work closely with team veterans and how working once a week with Leslie, a four-time Olympic gold medalist and four-time WNBA champion, has changed not only her gameplay but also how she handles
the spotlight as the youngest player in Unrivaled.
“Angel’s just a phenomenal player and person, and I really enjoyed getting to know her even more,” Leslie said. “She is such a hard worker … I just felt like she has so much talent, and it’s like she’s just scratching the surface. And sometimes you can have people or coaches that can help you and tell you things, but a person who’s actually experienced it and gone through it.”
“At 22, it’s hard living this life, but I’m grateful. I’m blessed, and I’m lucky to be around this group,” Reese said. “And being here and Unrivaled has just been the best thing for me.”
Mentorship and pay opportunities
In addition to exposure, Unrivaled offers signifcant fnancial incentives. Players earn an average salary of $220,000 for the eight-week season, a 233% increase from the WNBA minimum salary of $66,079.
There is also a 1-on-1 mid-season tournament with a $350,000 prize pool during the season. Collier, who won the tournament, donated half of her $200,000 prize to her team’s staff.
Players also received equity stakes in
the league, ensuring long-term fnancial benefts as the league grows.
League
results and plans for growth
Out of six teams, the top four qualifed for the playoffs: Lunar Owls BC (13-1), Rose BC (8-6), Laces BC (7-7), and Vinyl BC (5-9). Mist BC (5-9) and Phantom BC (4-10) were the two teams that missed the playoffs. In the semifnals, Rose BC defeated Laces BC 63-57, and Vinyl BC pulled off an upset over Lunar Owls BC, winning 73-70. Rose BC won the inaugural Unrivaled Championship, defeating Vinyl BC 62-54.
Looking ahead, Unrivaled is planning to expand in its second season. While Miami will remain the league’s base, there is potential for “tours” in four other nonWNBA cities across the U.S.
“It’s great for women’s basketball, and it’s going to be great for the [WNBA],” Mist BC player and Chicago Sky guard Courtney Vandersloot said. Just being able to, you know, use our offseason to sharpen our game, and, I said this before, I wish it happened when I was younger. I would do this every single year. I think it’s going to be really great.”
Regina Potenza // Contributing Photographer Satou Sabally practices on the Unrivaled main court with Phantom BC teammates at Wayfair Arena on Saturday, March 1.
J.D. Arteaga: Coaching for a bigger reason
By Jayden Gonzalez Staf Writer
In March 2003, J.D. Arteaga received a phone call that would change his life forever.
The call was from legendary Miami baseball coach Jim Morris, who offered the then-Texas Rangers minor leaguer a pitching coach job at Arteaga’s alma mater.
Just two weeks earlier, on Feb. 5, the Miami Hurricanes retired Arteaga’s No. 33 at Mark Light Field following an illustrious career in Coral Gables.
The southpaw left a mark on Miami’s baseball program, leading the ’Canes to a College World Series appearance from 1994-1997.
22 years after accepting the pitching coach position, Arteaga still lives in Coral Gables and is now the 10th head coach in program history. In year two at UM, he’s trying to bring Miami back to a former glory that he once built.
Arteaga is described by his peers as a true “player’s coach.” He understands the players and knows what it’s like to play baseball in Miami.
“As a person, I would say he does really everything, right? He’s a great role model to follow. He’s kind of like a second dad to me, really,” Miami second baseman Dorian Gonzalez Jr. said. “He was just like another father fgure to me growing up. Great role model on the feld. He’s a leader as well. When he talks, people listen, type of thing.”
But to understand Arteaga, you have to know his story.
Born in Miami, Arteaga is a true sports junkie. Under the tutelage of his father, Juan Diego Arteaga Sr., J.D. played every sport under the sun to keep him busy.
Arteaga Sr. was a Cuban immigrant who instilled the love of baseball in his son.
“My dad was like ‘baseball season was baseball season,’ and as soon as that was over, take all my baseball stuff away, it was basketball season,” Arteaga said.“And when that was over, it was football season.” “It was non-stop sports, and it wasn’t time to do anything else or get into too much trouble.”
J.D. excelled at both baseball and football. He was a star quarterback and frst baseman at Westminster Christian School in Palmetto Bay. But at age 15, tragedy struck.
In September 1990, while J.D. was preparing to start his frst game at quarterback, Arteaga Sr. suffered a heart attack in the stands. He was rushed to Coral Reef Hospital, where he was declared dead. He was 48 years old.
“In the beginning it was like a dream. I was still waiting for him to walk through the door,” Arteaga said in a 2024 interview.
“Being at a Christian school helped a lot. I know he is in a better place.’’
When it came time to choose a college, staying in Miami felt like the only option.
“For a lot of us who grew up in Florida, that was our big-league baseball club before the Marlins came along,” said Miami associate coach Laz Gutierrez. “We grew up wanting to be Miami Hurricanes.”
J.D. suffered a setback during his senior year of high school, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). His injury forced him to be a walk-on frst baseman at UM. After realizing that he would get cut if he didn’t switch positions, J.D. told Morris that he could pitch.
“So I started pitching and never swung the bat again here or anywhere. But this was the only option I had,” Arteaga said. “The rest is history, and I am blessed for it.”
At UM, Arteaga set a program record in wins and games started, with 42 and 72, respectively. He stands ffth in Miami history in strikeouts. In 1997, the New York Mets selected Arteaga in the 23rd round. After his Hall of Fame career at UM, Arteaga played six seasons in Minor League Baseball, spending time in the Mets, Houston Astros and Rangers organizations.
Now, Arteaga is at the helm in Coral Gables, running the program in the ballpark that he grew up in.
“So to be able to not only just play, but grow up in the stadium and getting chased around by the security, getting kicked out, cause I would sneak into left feld,” Arteaga said. “It’s an honor. I’ve always said, this is like a dream come true.”
With 26 years dedicated to the program as both a player and a coach, UM’s championship drought only fuels Arteaga’s desire to win it all. Since its last title run in 2001, Miami is still searching for a College World Series championship, something that has weighed on Arteaga since his return to South Florida.
“Going to Omaha is a good season, not
a great one. We’ve only had four great seasons here,” Arteaga said. “Going after the job, it’s an expectation that’s real, whether it’s fair or not, I don’t really care, but it’s an expectation, and that I helped create as a player.”
Tragedy struck the Arteaga family again in 2018, this time in a way no parent ever wants to experience. On the night of Saturday, July 28, 16-year-olds Ari Arteaga and his girlfriend, Indira Rambarran, were involved in a single-car accident while heading to a party. Ari, J.D.’s son, was killed instantly when he crashed his 2016 Jeep Wrangler into a utility pole near the Arteaga home in suburban Miami. Rambarran was badly injured but made a full recovery.
J.D. and his wife, Ysha, were inconsol able. To honor their son, the Arteaga family launched the Ari Arteaga Foun dation with the motto “Be the Light,” which was found on Ari’s last In stagram post. According to the foundation’s website, its mission is to spread Ari’s spirit by helping children and families overcome obstacles they may face due to unforeseen hardships.
Every year, the foundation hosts a baseball game at Mark Light Field with Christopher Columbus High School — the school Ari attended — to honor him as both a person and a star athlete.
“I want to say they got through it, but every day they work to honor him,” Gonzalez said.
it can to keep Ari’s legacy alive. Nearly seven years later, Arteaga’s perspective has changed. Baseball no longer tops his list of priorities; his family does. After living through the lowest moment of his life, the Miami coach has found a way to turn tragedy into personal growth.
“I see rock bottom as a great foundation for the rest of your life, a strong foundation. So, the moment you think you hit rock bottom, it’s a great foundation to build from, the lower the low spot possibly comes,” Arteaga said.
“So be prepared for it and just continue to move forward. You know, the world doesn’t slow down for you, let alone stop.” Aretaga said. “So whatever happens, you take your time to grieve and do whatever you gotta do, and then back on your horse and go.”
Since 2018, the foundation has awarded numerous Be The Light Scholarships and hosted food drives, doing all
Sunday Sweep: Hurricanes pour on 10 runs to send No. 13 Georgia Tech home winless
By Zach Cohen Staf Writer
On Easter Sunday, the Hurricanes came to play. Miami was electric on both sides of the ball in a 10-2 win that capped off the series sweep.
Miami’s new-look weekend rotation continued playing well on Sunday afternoon. Freshman Tate DeRias was dominant for the Hurricanes, throwing 5.1 innings, matching fellow freshman AJ Ciscar’s performance on Saturday.
Despite running into trouble in the fourth and ffth innings, DeRias allowed one run in each of those innings off three
hits. He was lights out in the frst three frames, retiring the side in order. In his longest outing of the season, he picked up his second win.
Freshman Alex Hernandez was the biggest threat on Georgia Tech’s (29-11, 14-7 ACC) side. After picking up two hits on Saturday, he picked up two more on Sunday. One of the hits came off DeRias in the fourth inning.
It wasn’t a fun day for the Yellow Jackets’ starting pitcher, Caden Spivey. He came into the game sporting a 2.55 ERA, but after Miami was done with the junior righty, his ERA skyrocketed to 5.34.
The bats were on fre right out of the gate for Miami. Jake Ogden had a leadoff double, followed by a Max Galvin single,
which put runners on the corners for Daniel Cuvet. The sophomore lined a ball up the middle to score for Ogden.
The top of the lineup has been stellar for Miami; the frst three hitters in the order each picked up a pair of hits.
With one out in the bottom of the frst, Miami’s offense continued to roll. Senior Dorian Gonzalez Jr. tapped the ball to the third base side for a sacrifce bunt. Catcher Tanner Smith then joined the frst-inning fun, sending a ball over the left feld wall for a three-run blast.
With one out and Galvin on in the second inning, Cuvet singled to left center to score one more run. Through two innings, the ’Canes had a 5-0 lead, ending Spivey’s day.
In the third inning, with Evan Taveres
on second and Renzo Gonzalez on frst, freshman Michael Torres was up to bat.
On the 1-1 pitch, Torres crushed a ball to left feld, sending it just over the wall for his frst collegiate home run.
Miami (24-17, 9-9 ACC) went on to score two unearned runs in the fourth. After four, the score was 10-1.
Recently, the Hurricanes’ bullpen has been lights out. Graduate Carson Fischer has stepped up after a lackluster start to the season. He pitched 2.2 innings and struck out one batter. Fischer also appeared in Friday’s game, where he threw two innings and gave up no runs.
In the top of the eighth, with Fischer still on the mound, freshman Caleb Daniel sent a ball on a rope to right feld, leading to
freshman Fabio Peralta making a spectacular diving grab. Peralta’s catch potentially saved an extra base hit and allowed Fischer to walk away without allowing a hit.
Miami head coach J.D. Arteaga called on Jackson Cleveland to get the fnal three outs of the inning. Cleveland, making his frst appearance since last Friday against Duke, got the job done. Georgia Tech’s pinch hitter, Nathan Waugh, hit into a 6-43 double play to end the game.
The Hurricanes are on a hot streak, winning six straight games and sweeping one of the best teams in the country. They look to extend their win streak to seven when they face off against crosstown rival FIU. First pitch is scheduled for Wednesday at 6 p.m. at FIU Baseball Stadium.
Photo Courtesy of Miami Athletics Miami head coach J.D. Arteaga, pictured during his tenure as an assistant coach with the Hurricanes.
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VV’s Take is The Miami Hurricane’s most controversial and longest running column.
V’s Take is a satirical work published biweekly by students and for students using our generation’s “colorful” language. V addresses all things love, sex and gossip on campus. V is not for the politically correct or easily offended. Unapologetic. Bold. Unfiltered.
Dear V, I’m sick of Miami men...
Home is where the ‘huzz’ is
The semester is coming to an end, finals are piling up and Club Richter is seeing its largest crowds of the season. Leaving the Magic City can be dreadful, especially if you’re one of the lucky few from the middle of nowhere. Personally, as much as I love the sun and sand, there is one thing I can’t wait to leave behind: the men.
Trying to date in Miami is like an episode of “Survivor,” but the only things you have to your name are your follower count and waist size. It doesn’t help that the men down here are god-awful. The only saving grace back home is the dating pool.
Maybe it’s because I’m a Magic City four but a Midwest eight, and I haven’t come to terms with that unfortunate fact. Though, without a doubt, the men back home are so much simpler. There’s no wanna-be DJs, no startup warriors and, thankfully, no “gymfluencers.”
Plus, I think removing yourself from Miami gives you a better environment to date. I love the clubs and I love the bars. Chances are you’ll see me at one tonight. But they’re not always ideal date spots, especially since the ones here are still blasting club hits at 4 p.m. happy hour.
Don’t even get me started on dating apps. Every Miami guy’s profile consists of an identical collection
of pictures. At a table at a club (taken seconds before getting kicked out), posed in front of a sports car (they spotted it on a corner in Brickell) and a mediocre gym pic. At least back home, where there’s nothing better to do, the guys put a little bit more effort into their profiles. They actually answer a prompt or two instead of just typing in their Instagram or SoundCloud. And fine, I’ll admit it, I miss the stereotypical fish pics. At least that shows me you have a hobby apart from being a male manipulator.
While I have seen my share of trolls, goblins and ogres here, regretfully I must admit that Miami’s eligible bachelors bat a high average of being conventionally hot.
The real gems are the guys back home that are hot in the way that Mike Faist or Barry Keogan are. A little something wrong, and they vaguely look like a clay pot you bumped into before it could dry. There’s just a special charm to them. They’re a classic case of someone who didn’t have their looks to lean on and had to develop an actual personality.
While hotness is great for delusions and doomed situationships, I always know my heart lies back home with mediocre men.
