Issue 5 complete

RaiderVoice Vol. 16 Issue 5

Gulliver Preparatory School 6575 N Kendall Drive, Miami FL 33156

www.theraidervoice.com

TARGETING CHANGE Students Rally For Gun Law Reform Page 10

April 30, 2018

IN THIS ISSUE

ON THE COVER

Original graphic

by Danielle Engel depicting students regusing to be targets of gun violence.

Photo by Ningxi “Edward” Cheng

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EDITORIAL Feb. 14 provided yet another mass shooting and students rose to spark a change.

OPINION Campus Voices on gun control.

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6 Photo by MCT Campus

Photo by MCT Campus

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NEWS Students across the country walk out in support of movement.

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10 Photo by Fox Mar

Photo by Monica Rodriguez

FEATURES How Parkland students have ignited a change.

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ENTERTAINMENT Thoughts on Red Sparrow Movie.

Brockhampton band breaks out.

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Photo by MCT Campus

SPORTS Girls Basketball caps year. Softball blossoms with leadership, talent.

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PHOTO ESSAY School production of Urinetown, which took place from Feb. 22-24.

Editorial

OUR STAFF A poster depicts the U.S. flag with school names, all of which suffered losses of students killed by gun violence, during the March For Our Lives rally to demand stricter gun control laws on Saturday, March 24, 2018, in Washington, D.C. (Karl Merton Ferron/Baltimore Sun/TNS)

Enough is Enough In light of yet another travesty, citizens and students are speaking out about the reoccurring issue that is gun violence. Voices are rising in protest as the rally of people demanding change increases and the #NeverAgain movement spreads after the shooting in Parkland, Florida at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School left 17 people killed, 14 injured, and hundreds traumatized.

At the forefront of the movement, students across the country walked out of class, paying a tribute to the massacre at Stoneman Douglas and standing behind the demand for a more protected future.

The Senate has rejected the proposal to create a national database that would include mental health records to increase the security of background checks. The age of alcohol consumption stands at 21 because of the continued development of the brain during teen years, especially the lack of impulse control that develops through age and maturity. How is it that a teenager isn’t mentally developed enough to have cocktail, but is expected to responsibly own a gun?

Nikolas Cruz, the Parkland shooter, was in possession of 10 firearms at 19 years old even after being expelled and showing suspicious behavior and evidence of harassment and violence. His social media accounts was filled with posts depicting guns, violence and threats -- all of which should have prompted authorities to take preventative measures. Even after speculations of dangerous activity were brought to the FBI, he was still able to purchase guns, including the AR-15 used for the shooting.

Brandon Wolf, a survivor of the Orlando Pulse shooting said in an interview with CNN, “after first graders were gunned down at Sandy Hook, what did you do? Not a thing. After 49 people, including my two brothers, were murdered at Pulse, what did you do? Not a thing. You plugged your ears and turned your eyes and hoped that we would stop talking. Now we’re here again. Seventeen people are dead, 14 of them are children. And what did you do yesterday when given the chance to do something about it? Not a thing.”

If the right to bear arms is going to be effective in its true nature, there must be more regulation on gun possession. Psychological evaluations are essential in assuring that weapons are not put into the hands of mentally ill people. Background checks must be more extensive. “The right to bear arms ... does not and never will overpower the individual’s right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” says Parkland survivor Florence Yared, at a #NeverAgain rally.

The moment to start a revolution is today. The era for hope is always. The date to save lives should have been days, weeks, and years ago. But the opportunity stands, now.

Zachary Letson Editor in Chief Danielle Engel Copy Editor

Romina Shadravan Layout Editor Abril Beretta Managing Editor Itxiar Castanho Business Manager Daniella Tosca Staff Writer and Web Editor Laura Attarian Staff Writer and Photographer Monica Rodriguez Adviser

OUR MISSION The Raider Voice is Gulliver Preparatory’s award-winning, student-run, news publication to inform, educate, and entertain the entire Gulliver community.

OUR POLICY

Only documented news stories and responsible opinions will be published.

Opinions expressed as commentary may not reflect the views or policies of the school.

The Raider Voice welcomes signed letters to the editors. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject any letters. Professional associations include Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Florida Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Association and Tribune Campus News Services. Staff journalists are members of Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society. The Raider Voice reserves the right to refuse any advertising, solicited or unsolicited. Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the views, endorsements and/or positions of The Raider Voice staff.

Advertisements will be accepted copyready or will be designed by the staff. This publication is printed by Sun Coast Press, 200 East Venice Avenue, Venice, FL 34285.

Tel: 941-207-1406.

VISIT US ONLINE!

For additional content and upto-date announcements, please visit us at www.theraidervoice. com. Use Snapchat and scan the QR code to access our site.

EDITORIAL

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President Donald Trump meets with students, parents and teachers affected by mass shootings in Parkland, Fla., Newtown, Conn., and Columbine, Colo., to search for policies to keep America’s schools safe in the State Dining Room of the White House on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 in Washington, D.C. (Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/TNS)

Trump holds discussion with Parkland students on gun control

By Itxiar Castanho Business Manager In response to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, president Donald Trump invited a group of students, families, and school board directors to gather and discuss concerns regarding recent shootings and poor gun control laws in the United States. The reunion included emotional stories, as well as offering ideas for possible solutions regarding gun control and security procedures in schools.

This event gave the country a different view of political beliefs by opening a free space where everyone could add their own thoughts, concerns, and solutions on issues that are affecting our society. Even though the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland happened one week before the president adressed the issue, they still reacted quickly and agreed to discuss such important and crucial events with citizens.

In other countries like Venezuela where shootings might not be the main problem, and lack of medicine, security, food, and essential needs for survival are major daily dilemmas, having the government agree to open a space in their agenda to welcome other points of view is not even an option. Instead, the Venezuelan government doesn’t listen to the victims of the problems the country is facing. It’s frustrating to really want to help your country by protesting and claiming your voice, when

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OPINION

they don’t let you.

United States citizens have the opportunity and luck to have a voice and be listened by the government; the ones that can only solve these issues. As citizens, you have the right to petition your government, and your opinions and concerns about your security -- that must be available every second of your life -- are taken into account. I was happy to see that students, parents and school faculty affected by gun violence were given the opportunity to speak their concerns directly to the president.

Since the shooting in Parkland, FL, more groups have expressed their concerns and have gathered at both the state and national level. This is a very precious right to have, and, more importantly, the government allows freedom of expression, no matter what your beliefs may be.

Other people in different countries are not being listened by their presidents because they believe that the problem is being solved, when it isn’t; and people are still dying of hunger or illness because they have no medicines or the necessary tools to make treatments work.

Probably for the first time the country’s concerns and beliefs are turned toward the same issue: gun control. This is a serious situation that affects everyone. If you care about making a difference, and want your leaders to listen to you, then don’t miss the chance of stopping this. Remember, you’re lucky. You have the chance that many other people desire. Embrace your democracy and freedom of speech; it’s beyond valuable.

Desensitization towards gun violence a problem

By Danielle Engel Copy Editor The regularity of school shootings have made the term “gun violence” a typical household phrase. It should not be normal for me to look up off my computer screen while writing an English essay and see two prime-time anchors on the television reporting on yet another school shooting. It is unacceptable that while I am learning about momentum in physics thousands of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students, who just like me go to school with the expectations to extend their knowledge, are fighting for their lives. We are a generation of students born in a post-Columbine era; a period riddled with a gun violence and political turmoil. However, we fail to comprehend the magnitude of danger caused by these mass shooting epidemics. Despite these atrocities becoming far too common, we are still not doing enough to recognize and report the signs.

To educate the public, The Sandy Hook Promise, a foundation created in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook School shooting in 2013, published a video to raise awareness about the signs of

gun violence. The video titled ‘Evan’, follows the light-hearted life of Evan, a typical high-school boy who is getting ready for summer. The twist is that throughout the clips that display his normal life, a fellow student demonstrates obvious signals that he is plotting a school shooting, but is ignored. Evan is so immersed in his own life that he neglects the troubles of someone he sees everyday at school.

So, I must ask what seems like the unsolvable question to most politicians in D.C., where do we go from here?

Sending ‘thoughts and prayers’ is simply not enough. Posting condolences on social media will not keep another assailant from causing harm. Who do we decide to upset, the National Rifle Association or survivors? Do we preserve the Second Amendment or the lives of students nationwide? Following the recent shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, millions of students are leading a March For Our Lives movement across the nation in attempt to cease the desensitization of firearm violence and advocate for gun control.

To save this world from any further pain, we, as a community, must learn to say something if we see something. To keep our neighbors, family, and kids safe we must destroy this blindness to the perils of firearms To stop these senseless, horrific events, action must be taken.

Use Snapchat to scan the code and see the video created by the Sandy Hook Promise for gun violence awareness. Video link on YouTube.com.

With two major shootings in the last couple of months, it’s apparent that gun control is a huge issue in this country.

It needs to be solved. Thousands of innocent lives have been lost. A recent shooting in Texas, was caused by Devin P. Kelley.

Kelley escaped from a mental health hospital in 2012 after he posed death threats against Air Force superiors. Kelley Cecilia Derlon Freshman abused his wife and his son, leaving the toddler with a serious head injury. Kelley sent his mother-inlaw threatening texts. Police officers visited his home 17 times over the past years. Kelley was accused of sexual assault, with the investigation still open. Kelley had yellow flags posted on his electronic file, denoting that he has psychiatric issues. But Kelley, very easily, was also allowed to buy four guns legally despite this, and was able to kill 26 people with them at a Texas church. This is a perfect example of why gun laws have to change and gun control has to be enforced. Because of lack of information, 26 innocent lives of mothers, daughters, brothers, dads, sons, loved ones in general, were taken.

Campus Voices In past years, the Second Amendment has been a major controversy in the United States. The purpose of the Second Amendment is primarily for Americans to possess weapons as a self-defense. It might seem like a logical idea to protect your home and family, but just this same Amendment was what permitted the largest mass murder in the United States, leaving hundreds dead. On October 1st,

Rachel Hooley

As someone who has lived in many countries around the world, I have never felt unsafe or scared to go to school until I came to America. Before I came to Miami, I lived in England for a year. In Great Britain, guns are banned for the police and civilians, the only way to get your hands on one is to have a license.

To get a license you have to send in a copy of your passport and many other

documents to the government and the chief officer of your local police department. The school that I attended in England had very little security and never did anyone at my school fear Caio Corsini that someone would enter the school with a gun. Ever. The 2017, Stephen Paddock opened fire into a crowd that attended a last school shooting and the most recent shooting in Great country music festival in Las Vegas. Soon after the suspect was Britain was on March of 1996, in Scotland, after that guns were identified, several other weapons were discovered in his hotel banned completely and there has not been a mass shooting room, which were legally obtained. Another recent example since. Here, my mom is frightened to get mad at drivers as she was in June 12, 2016, when Omar Mateen killed and wounded fears that they will pull a gun out on her, in England she beeped dozens of people in a night club in Orlando, FL. Once again, at everyone and never did she worry that she would be shot.

Mateen legally bought the weapons used in the mass murder.

The U.S government could learn from England and prevent While European countries hurry to address the issue of gun thousands of deaths. America has a gun epidemic and it needs control after several terrorist attacks in the continent, the United to be solved now.

States still wonders whether gun control is actually necessary.

OPINION

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Annual Miami-Dade fair celebrated its 67th year

By Danielle Engel Copy Editor The annual Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition opened from Mar. 15 - Apr. 8 in University Park, adjacent to Florida International University. This year, the Youth Fair celebrated its 67th anniversary, of amusement rides, student competitions, and live-performance concerts.

Among over ninety rides, the Fair offered fairgoers a multitude of interactive exhibits. Each event was designed to expose locals to the agricultural and cultural diversity of Miami. Howdy’s Barnyard was comprised of five activities informing spectators about the importance of the animals that contribute to Miami’s ecosystem. Likewise, The Garden educated fairgoers about the city’s horticulture as it displayed hundreds of native plants cultivated in the heart of Homestead. The 86-acre area is large enough to host food a circus, petting zoo, and ice skating show.

“I loved going to the Fair when I was little. Everything was so exciting - the rides, food, and activities. I remember always submitting my writing for competitions,” said senior Agustin Garcia.

The Fair was located at 10901 SW 24 St. In southwest Miami-Dade, near Florida International University.

Robotics Club Participated in First Robotics Competition

By Abril Beretta Managing Editor Robotics club students, BB-R8ERS, competed in the annual robotics competition in early March with their newest robot.

The BB-R8ERS were excited at the prospect of being able to challenge other schools for the first place prize.

“We were very excited for this year’s competition. We have worked very hard this year and can’t wait to pass on all that we’ve learn,” Senior Christian Yance commented.

This is the fourth time the BB-R8ERS competed and they felt much more confident. While they did not win the 2017 F.R.C., they were still very optimistic. Having learned from their experiences, they made what they deemed were necessary adjustments to their robot, and building a better robot than in past years.

“Our ability to score and make points is much better than last year in terms of the robot’s ability to complete the preset challenges of the competition‚“ Junior Eduardo Briceno-Saez stated.

With 40 active members in the club, there was a mix of both new and experienced members on the team.

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NEWS

Robotics Club, BB-R8ERS, officially bagging their robot ready for competition!

“We had a lot of fun working together building the robot to get it ready for competition,” said senior Christian Yance. Photo by Claude Charron.

“The team is very well organized. I came in, and it was right down to business. I was very impressed and couldn’t wait for the competition,” freshmen Jordan Schmidt commented.

Although the team didn’t place in the top rankings, they plan to use the experience to develop improvements to their robot design for next year’s competition. For seniors, the competition was a rewarding experience.

“I was excited to compete with such a great team,” said senior Meyer Hallot.

On Mar. 14 students, faculty, and staff gathered on the Sean Taylor Memorial Field to support the students of Marjory Stoneman Douglas. “I felt very moved when I was asked to speak at the walkout on the field knowing how much it affected everyone,” said senior Fiona Hanly.

Photo by Ningxi “Edward” Cheng.

Community Supports Teens On Strike

By Romina Shadravan Layout Editor In response to the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, students all across the nation came together in an attempt to make a change by participating in an organized walkout event.

Senior class president, Isabella Martinez-Aleman, wrote a letter addressing the incident at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, bringing up the issue of mental health and how our school should do more to help address it. In response the school showed great interest by planning to create a program to better address the issue of mental health. On Mar. 14 students and faculty walked out to the Sean Taylor Memorial field for 17 minutes and stood in the shape of the letters “MSD” support of the students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

“I realized that what we could do in our own community was not only address the event but re-evaluate the way in which we deal with mental illness. The way in which we deal with it as a society isn’t correct, so we might as well start in our own small community and try to build outwards,” said Martinez-Aleman.

Other schools also responded. On the one-week anniversary of the shooting the students at nearby schools such as Miami Palmetto High School and Coral Reef Senior High took part in a protest against gun violence. On Mar. 14 the students at Palmetto walked out onto the field and stood in the shape of “MSD” for 17 minutes releasing one balloon each minute for each of the victims, while students at Coral Reef also walked out in protest for 17 minutes. Like we did at our own school, those students spoke out, read letters or recited poems.

“Going out and actually making a statement together as a student body felt empowering, like we could really make a difference,” said Palmetto student Emily Krause.

Many schools all across Florida came together in support of the students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, with many joining the March for our Lives movement or writing state legislators. The students have decided to take a stand and not let what happened that day be forgotten.

NEWS

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FEATURES

FEATURES

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Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students gather after the walkout in honor of the 17 victims killed at the school on Valentine’s Day on March 14, 2018 in Parkland, Fla. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun-Sentinel/TNS)

Sparking A Movement

In the wake of the shooting, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students led an unprecedented movement across the nation.

By Zachary Letson Editor in Chief The events that took place on Feb. 14 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where 17 were shot dead, shocked and terrified its students. But this also inspired them to make a change. In the wake of the mass shooting, two words led a movement that rapidly grew nationwide: Never Again.

“I don’t want to sit in class and do nothing,” Marjory Stoneman Douglas Student Carly Novell, Editor of Douglas’ Eagle Eye, said. “I can’t focus at all. I don’t think anyone can. I don’t want to start going back to normal, or whatever normal is.”

There have been numerous roadblocks in

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FEATURES

the Never Again movement, and Editor In Chief of The Eagle Eye, Kyra Parrow, mentioned their age as an obstacle.

“We’re kids. Some of us are 14, 15, 16 years old. I think a lot of politicians just shrug their shoulders [when we talk].

We’re actually very smart [and] we know how the government works.”

After meeting with Florida Governor Rick Scott, the Parkland students and families were able to bring their plan into action. The Florida Governor signed the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Safety Act. This act intends to keep guns away from dangerous and mentally ill individuals. It also invests 400 Million Dollars to keep students safe and enhance mental health treatment.

The support of millions has also been extremely valuable to the leaders of the march, as schools across the country had

walkouts of their own in support on Mar. 14.

“The schools and the walkouts are so inspiring to see. It makes me see that there is so much more that we can do.” said Novell.

The March for our Lives, also a nationwide event took place on Mar. 24. “It’s empowering to see the nation marching not just for our lives, because it’s such a bigger picture than school safety. You go to Chicago, Detroit, Baltimore, these are cities that deal with gun violence on a daily basis.” Parrow added.

Another element of the aftermath were the discussions the students had.

Novell and Parrow were critical about their discussion with United States Secretary of Education Betsy Devos.

“I asked about her political agenda and she gave me a ‘bs’ answer,” said Parrow,

What’s the

WORD?

As citizens and lawmakers discuss gun control issues and laws, here’s the definition of a variety of the most commonly mentioned firearms.

Automatic: A fully automatic firearm can fire two or more cartridges with a single pull of the trigger.

Cartridge: The assembly of a bullet, shell casing, gunpowder, and primer that is put in the chamber of a firearm.

Magazine: An ammunition feeding device that holds the cartridges just prior to them being put in the chamber of the firearm by the operation of a mechanism on the firearm.

Rifle: A firearm firing only a single projectile at a time while being fired from the shoulder.

Top: At the end of the rally, Marjory Stoneman Douglas students gather on the stage during March for Our Lives to demand stricter gun control laws on Mar. 24, in Washington, D.C. (Mike Stocker/Sun Sentinel/TNS) Middle: U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) hugs Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School junior Tyah Amoy-Roberts, 17, of Parkland, Fla. after a press conference detailing legislation that would set up an instant background check for purchase of ammunition Mar. 26, at City of Pembroke Pines Police Dept. in Pembroke Pines, FL (Taimy Alvarez/Sun Sentinel/TNS) Bottom: Marjory Stoneman Douglas student Emma Gonzalez speaks to the crowd during March for Our Lives on Mar. 24, in Washington, D.C. (Mike Stocker/ Sun Sentinel/TNS).

“it was more thoughts and prayers than what can we do to [make] a change.” This attitude of nonacceptance and “enough is enough” has helped separate the Never Again movement from any past one. It began with a speech from MSD Student Emma Gonzalez, whose famous speech called ‘BS’ adamantly, urged President Trump, and grabbed the attention of millions.

The students also had the opportunity to meet with Miami Heat Basketball Player Dwyane Wade, and contrary to Devos, both students were much more optimistic about Wade’s point of view after the discussion.

“He asked the important questions; what can we do, and how he could use his platform to help boost what we’re trying to do.” Parrow said, “Wade, who doesn’t have any political background was doing

Shotgun: A smooth, long gun that shoots a group of pellets instead of bullets.

Machine Gun: A firearm originally designed to fire more than one shot per pull of the trigger.

Revolver: A pistol that has revolving chambers so that several shots can be fired without reloading.

Based on information from concealednation.org

more than someone who does.”

Parrow and Novell are hopeful that those across the country that have engaged in the movement help take action for a change.

“It’s really important as students to be active. Make sure you see what bills our legislators are passing. Make sure you are registered to vote,” said Parrow. “Because it’s our country and our right.”

BY THE NUMBERS: Guns in United States

310 MILLION 42%

individuals own a firearm in the U.S. of people live in a household with a gun

67%

of people in the U.S. own guns for their own protection

Based on information from pewresearch.org

Florida Gun Laws and Regulations

By Laura Attarian Staff Writer and Photographer Gun laws and regulations differ in every state, while states enforce strict and lengthy legislation, others have loose and lenient processes. Florida is one of the few states that does not obtain many regulations, many firearms are available for possession if the buyer is of age, and passes designated tests, and pays permit fees every seven years.

As stated by Florida Statute 790.015, US residents 21 years old and over with possession of a valid concealed weapons license issued by their state can carry concealed weapons and firearms. In accordance, Florida Statue 790.0655 1a declares that buyers must undergo a mandatory three-day waiting period between purchase and possession of any firearm.

Open carry is generally prohibited and campus carry must be stored in vehicles.

Although firearm dealers are not required to have a Florida state license, however the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms requires gun sellers to contain a federal-level license.

According to an article in the Miami Herald, the Republican-dominated Florida legislature is deciding on several gun control laws in the state, one of which is raising the minimum age to purchase a firearm to 21. another initiative is creating a program called School Marshal, aiming to train and equip teachers with guns.

A total of $67 million is needed to fund the 132-hour program and as a result, 10 teachers would be armed in every school to protect students and staff against intruders.

A survey done by Quinnipiac University from Feb. 16 to 19 show that 96 percent of those surveyed supported universal background checks, 83 percent encouraged a mandatory waiting period for firearm purchases, and 50 percent of gun owners surveyed are in favor of stricter laws.

FEATURES

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Red Sparrow Fails To Fly High

By Abril Beretta Managing Editor

Jennifer Lawrence stars in “Red Sparrow,” in a role that has a superficial resemblance to Marvel’s Black Widow. Her character , Dominika Egorova, lures men and then proceeds to kill them. (Murray Close/Fox/TNS)

In “The Red Sparrow,” Jennifer Lawrence plays a Russian ballerina that after breaking her leg, turns into a spy. In the middle of a modern Cold War, the protagonist, Dominika Egorova, must navigate the treacherous world of the “Sparrows.”

An elite, secret group controlled by the government, the Sparrows teach capable men and women the art of seduction and betrayal. Dominika must use these skills to succeed in her mission to survive.

The movie contains elements typical of a Cold War drama: a tragic back-story, numerous double crosses, and a twist ending.

Using a modern setting, “The Red Sparrow” tries to refurbish the genre into something new and refreshing. However, it falls flat. The whole plot revolves around a brilliant, driven female agent, yet because of the acting and dialog, all scenes feel cold and detached.

Visually, the movie blends shots together, making it difficult to distinguish scenes from one another. Although this may be intentional, it should not be challenging for the viewers to differentiate different cities like London or Vienna.

All in all, “The Red Sparrow” is mediocre. It is not terrible, but definitely not compelling enough to be labeled good.

Brockhampton Breaks Out

By Romina Shadravan Layout Editor The release of Brockhampton’s three studio albums -Saturation I, Saturation II, and Saturation III, in 2017 lead to the boy band’s rapid rise to success.

With each song on their albums ranging in genre, fans of alternative, hip-hop, and rap have come together with this new sound in music. Embracing all of their differences, they have captured the eye of many young fans. There have been countless stories on the inspiration they have been giving teenagers due to their outward message of acceptance and tolerance. This message is found in their lyrics where they openly speak out on their sexualities, giving kids the courage to be themselves.

“I love the way Brockhampton inspires their fans to be themselves and not be afraid to be different,” said senior Sophie Jennings.

They have gained so much success due to all of their hard work but still showing that they genuinely enjoy what they are doing.

They show confidence in what they do by calling themselves “the greatest boy band in the world,” but rather than losing fans by it, they are respected for it. They inspire their fans to be proud of what they do and to work hard at their passions.

“I really admire the variety in their music styles and the

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ENTERTAINMENT

From their Internet roots, Brockhampton is emerging into the real world in a big way with their recently released album “Saturation II,” a Viceland docmentary-style show “American Boyband,”A A and nationwide tour -- all based out of their group home in Los Angeles’ North Hollywood neighborhood. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

enthusiasm of the group in general really engages the audience in a way that I have never seen any other band do,” said senior Zain Ali. The band’s hard work encourages teens to achieve their dreams in the music industry.

America’s Pastime is back underway

By Zachary Letson Editor In Chief

Argentina’s Lionel Messi (10) battles for the ball with the Netherlands’ Daley Blind in the FIFA World Cup semifinals on Wednesday, July 9, 2014, at Arena de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Argentina advanced on penalty kicks. (Wang Lili/Xinhua/Zuma Press)

World’s biggest soccer tournament sits on the horizon

By Laura Attarian Staff Writer Now that all groups, matches, and dates are settled, the 2018 FIFA World Cup is sits just over a month away. Over the past year, 32 countries competed in order to qualify for the 2018 Russia World Cup, which starts on June 14th and ends on July 15th. This Cup will feature national teams that have played nearly every year, such as Brazil, Germany, Argentina, and Italy, as well as countries who have never or rarely participated such as Iceland, Panama, or Senegal. The event will take place in Russia, in twelve different cities around the country. The stadiums have already been constructed and selected and all the group stage matches have been scheduled with their designated stadium assigned.

The mascot and the official ball have been announced and named, and the sticker album has been released. There are just a couple weeks left before fans can enjoy the 21st World Cup to the fullest.

On Mar. 29 the gates opened to another season of Major League Baseball.

Every season has its own surprises and unforgettable moments, but the 2017 season will certainly be a hard one to top.

The Houston Astros won the 2017 World Series over the Los Angeles Dodgers in a thrilling seven-game showdown. The ‘Stros were led by Jose Altuve, their 5’6’’ superstar second baseman, who was already an icon in Houston, but began to grow a legacy after leading the team to their first title in franchise history. The Mighty Astros return to the 2018 scene with a team that looks even better. Houston added Starting Pitcher Gerrit Cole via a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates, and one would also think that the young talents of Carlos Correa, George Springer, and Alex Bregman, along with Altuve, would continue to blossom.

Around the rest of the American League, the East division is led by two giants, and you may not be surprised to

The Houston Astros’ Jose Altuve hits a ninth-inning single against the New York Yankees in Game 2 of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017. The Astros won, 2-1, for a 2-0 series lead.

(Howard Simmons/New York Daily News/TNS)

The New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge hits an RBI double in the third inning against the Houston Astros in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium in New York on Oct. 18, 2017. (Andrew Savulich/New York Daily News/TNS)

find out that it is the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. Boston sits atop the league in payroll, and New York helped recapture their ‘villain’ personality of the late ‘90s and ‘00s with the off-season’s blockbuster trade: the acquisition of slugger Giancarlo Stanton and his $325 Million Dollar Contract with $250 Million yet to be paid. Stanton now plays alongside Aaron Judge, who took over the city of New York with 52 Home Runs.

The Red Sox brought in a star of their own in outfielder JD Martinez, and as the season shifts to the month of May, have the best record in baseball.

In the National League, it has been the New York Mets who have stormed out of the gate to twelve wins in their first 13 games. After winning the pennant in 2015, the Mets struggled and missed the playoffs in the last two seasons. In 2018, they certainly pose the biggest threat to the Washington Nationals in the East division, who despite minimal postseason success, have won the division in four of the last six seasons.

The rest of the NL is highlighted by the teams that have seen success in the past couple seasons: The Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs. Despite a surprisingly slow 2018 start in which LA lost 6 of their first 8 contests, the reigning NL Champs, who came up just a game short of a World Series title a year ago, have as good a chance as any team to get back there.

SPORTS

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Girls Lacrosse builds off new and experienced players

Leadership and talent leads softball team to District Championship

By Zachary Letson

By Isabel Cuellar Contributing Writer Editor In Chief

Through a mix of experienced seniors and talented freshmen, the Raiders Softball team found a rhythm all season long en route to a District Championship.

The 2018 Girls Lacrosse season brought Between daily two-hour practices, big together a team of new coaches, as well as wins and tough losses, the experience of a mix of new players and veterans for the the season so far has helped the players Raiders. develop on the field, but also as a family.

Many players are first timers, but “We always have each others backs on the some have already become accustomed field, we do whatever it takes. I wouldn’t to the sport. “I think lacrosse is a great trade this group of girls for anything. experience because it’s not similar to They have made my senior year the best many other sports,” said key player I could ask for. They are my family,” said Martina Larsen. senior catcher and captain Cici Castillo.

Returning players have welcomed the The team welcomed new faces, with new players, and helped them understand encouragement and support of each other the game. through the good times and the bad. The “It’s been fun to have new players and a coaches have also cheered and trained new team. It’s good to see that the lacrosse the team through all of their games and is growing and that more people want to play,” said Emily Turner who has been playing since 8th grade.

Players aren’t the only ones new to lacrosse. Head Coach Ken Rosenthal has just started coaching lacrosse, but previously, coached football for two decades. “So far it’s been a great experience,” said Rosenthal. “Everybody is working hard, the core girls from last year are helping out with the new girls and I’m looking forward to not only this season but what we’re building for next Villanova’s Jalen Brunson shoots over Michigan’s season,” Rosenthal added.

Charles Matthews during the first half of the NCAA National Championship game at the Alamodome, Teams across Florida are undergoing Monday, April 2, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Yong new regulations including the recent Kim/Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS) FHSAA requirements for 2018 girls lacrosse, as it now requires all girls in the Villanova rolls to second state to wear helmets. The helmets have padded goggles installed on them and do National Championship not cover the entire face, unlike those in in three years Boys Lacrosse. This new rule allegedly reduces concussions, which was an active By Zachary Letson Editor In Chief issue last year.

The mix of new and experienced players In an NCAA tournament riddled with has helped the Raiders grow as a team. upsets, it was it was the one seeded Villanova Wildcats who won the 2018 National Championship, their second SPORTS

By Laura Attarian Staff Writer

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tournaments.

“I’m really proud of how our team has grown over the last couple months. With such a young team it’s hard to get the little things right. With only 3 upperclassmen, we’ve had to step up as leaders and help the younger kids develop. Thankfully, they’re all very good listeners and quick learners. I have no doubt that we will surprise the rest of the softball community this year,” said junior pitcher Hailey Miller. Miller one of the biggest hits of the season, a grand slam that helped give the Raiders a 6-2 victory over Keys Gate on March 13th. Miller also quieted the Knights’ bats, giving up just two runs and pitching a complete game.

Through this combination of leadership, chemistry, and talent, the team saved their best play for last, resulting in a District Championship. in three seasons under head coach Jay Wright.

It wasn’t college phenom Jalen Brunson, or future lottery pick Mikal Bridges that led the Wildcats to victory in the year’s biggest game, although Brunson and Bridges were huge pieces to their title run in general. Instead, a bench spark from guard Donte Divencenzo helped Villanova win in commanding fashion, capping off a tournament of six dominant victories. Divencenzo came off the bench to finish with 18 first half points and 31 for the game.

Villanova won each game from the Round of 64 to the Championship Game by at least 12 points. Just as all championship teams, they strung together six straight victories by winning games in multiple ways. The Wildcats rained 18 threes in a pummeling of fellow one-seed Kansas in the Final Four. But even in games where they had more difficulty hitting shots, they found other ways to win. The athletic, deep roster of the Wildcats would not be denied.

Raider Baseball focuses on the “little things” in 2018

By Zachary Letson Editor In Chief Another season is underway for the Raiders baseball team, but the goal has been the same since the team took the field for the first time: Win a State Championship. Head Coach Manny Crespo knows that there will be some components into making goal that a reality.

The “Big Three”, as Crespo called them, have continued to be crucial players to team success. Senior Jacob Marcos hits leadoff for the Raiders as the team’s center fielder. Catcher and University of Miami Commit Adrian Del Castillo, who is also a huge part of the center of the offense and hits 3rd. Kevin Maura, who is committed to playing college ball at FIU, pitches for the Raiders and also serves as the team’s cleanup hitter. Crespo mentioned team chemistry as one of the biggest keys for success.

“We have a lot of talented athletes, but in general, talent wins games, chemistry wins championships,” he said, adding, “I’m trying to focus on character.”

“Focus, commitment, accountability, responsibility. Those kind of things allow you to play the game the right way. I’m not

Guard Alana Pinder drives to the basket. The Senior was the team’s leading scorer and earned First Team All-Dade Honors. Photo by Fox Mar.

Varsity Girls Basketball closes out strong season

By Kyle Valdes Contributing Writer The Varsity Girls Basketball Team ended a strong 2017-18 campaign with a record of 22-6.

“Our goal for this season was to be the best possible team we

The Raiders currently hold a record of 12 wins and eight losses as they enter the homestretch of the season. Win number six was remarkable 11-run comeback in a 13-12 win on March 19th against Archbishop McCarthy. The team has been excellent in close games, winning six contests by one run.

so focused on the techniques of baseball, I really just want them to understand that if they do the little things right [and] they care about each other, then all the other things tend to work out.”

Crespo noted the focus as a major part of their early season success, which included winning the 2018 Dave Westberry Classic, their first championship in the tournament in 20 years.

“We’re trying to leave a legacy as a team,” said Crespo, “every time they step up on the field, they are there to leave a legacy for the people coming after them. I’m trying to get them to take it to that next level and win that state championship.” could be towards the end of the season. This way, we could be ready for the playoffs and make a deep run for the state title.” said head coach John Zambolla.

This strong overall performance was the culmination of much hard work, specifically team work.

“Our mentality was pretty steady throughout the entire season.

Our girls really wanted to prove a point to other people in this county that we are still one of the best teams in Florida. In order to do that, the girls did it together, and they were committed to doing things the right way,” Zambolla added.

The team excelled at home all season long, losing just one of 13 contests at the Blue Dungeon. One of the team’s best wins was their victory in the District Championship game against Booker T. Washington.

“This was our most memorable game. It was a great overall team win and the girls were focused and prepared. They executed the game plan to perfection.” It was the team’s third victory over Tornadoes during the season, after winning on the road by a point on the road in the beginning of the season, and squeezing out a win earlier in postseason play. But the third was different than the previous two -- which were decided by just five points combined -- the Raiders dominated to a 62-41 win during a critical time in the season.

Senior Alana Pinder lead the team all season long. “She had her best overall season at Gulliver and was just named to Miami Herald First Team All-Dade. Pinder helped the Raiders complete an accomplished year.

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Photo Essay

The Prep Drama Department presented Urinetown: The Musical to sold out audiences Feb. 22-24. The cast included both drama students and newcomers who auditioned. “As stage manager, working on my last high school production was emotional but an amazing experience,� said senior Andrea Mirow. Photos by Fox-Mar.

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