Issue 6 final edition

RaiderVoice Vol. 16 FINAL EDITION

Gulliver Preparatory School 6575 N Kendall Drive, Miami FL 33156

Sailing

into summer

Page 14

www.theraidervoice.com May 25, 2018

IN THIS ISSUE

ON THE COVER

The Raiders Sailing Team, pictured, capped off their 2017-18 year on a high note.

Photo by Ningxi Cheng

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EDITORIAL

Recognizing Creativity.

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OPINION Photo by MCT Campus

Letters to the Editor regarding Issue 5.

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NEWS

A Q&A with 2018-19 Student Body President Kyle Valdes.

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Photo by Gulliver Schools

Photo by Ignacio Izquierdo Diaz

FEATURES

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Musicians wow audience in Spring Concert. Environmental Science class video wins Everglades Challenge. “It’s a Small World” event celebrates cultures.

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ENTERTAINMENT Concerts and shows to watch for as summer arrives.

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SPORTS

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Photo by Fox Mar

Photo by Fox Mar

Lacrosse team wins district championship.

Sailing finishes memorable year.

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PHOTO ESSAY

Senior Class of 2018 bids farewell.

Editorial

OUR STAFF

Zachary Letson Editor in Chief

procon.org

Danielle Engel Copy Editor

Shifting the Focus: School System should Nurture Creativity over Standardized Test Scores

By Isabel Cuellar Contributing Writer A ten-year-old girl is sitting in a classroom, looking at numbers she cannot even try to understand. Placed in a lower level class she is lost, not only because she has a learning disability with numbers, and math is not her strength: creativity is. She cannot figure out how to solve the addition problems in her homework, but she can create a functioning society that lives in harmony when she plays dolls with her best friend.

She can even represent political stigmas and social hierarchies within her make-believe world of miniature horses. She can write songs, plays, and create eye-opening tales set in picturesque wonderlands. Unfortunately, she will never know her true potential. Her creativity stifled from a young age. Instead of focusing on her creative mind, teachers focus only on her weaknesses and on her learning disability. Even today, my best friend Pauline cannot explore her imagination in school.

Unfortunately, Pauline’s story is the rule, not the exception. The school system in general, disapproves of students letting their imaginations take over. Students must imitate and memorize what they are taught, obsessing over grades and focusing on standardized test scores. However, this should not be the way that education is run.

Educators should identify how their students learn best, and ensure that whether it be through visual or sensory strategies, children are learning in the best way they can. Schools should be open to the suggestions their students provide about the classroom and they should be willing to implement them in class. Allegation against the nurturing of creativity do not have much ground. The best way to facilitate learning and innovative thinking for students to learn is in an environment where they feel safe, comfortable, and empowered, rather than being forced to comply with old-fashioned methods.

Teaching methods need to appeal more to students’ creative side because creativity is what will keep civilization moving forward. Creative and innovative people are those who will help find solutions to global issues and continue to evolve civilizations.

Entrepreneurial youth is a large part of what keeps society improving. Therefore, educators need to set agendas that accommodate students who learn differently, and come to an understanding on how they can balance the two vital components of any society, both academic and creative learning.

Schools across the country claim that they are making an effort to make this shift in the school system, but is not sufficient. A reform in the relationship between fostering creativity and academic education is essential. It is crucial that educators and administrators work to embrace and advance the much needed change. Schools need to ensure that students like Pauline are provided with challenges to strengthen their weaknesses as well as simultaneously inspiring students to explore their creativity.

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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April 30,

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Campus Voices Dear Editor,

y ts Rall Studen Law n For Gu Page 10 Reform

Gun Control: Sparking A Movement Dear Editor, In today’s society the issue with guns has gotten completely out of hand. No longer do we feel safe going to school, or even going out in public. Students have some sort of target on their backs and no one can seem to understand exactly why. When the shooting at Sandy Hook happened everyone thought that the government would make sure to do something, something that helped those affected by the situation and those who don’t feel safe. The fact that any eighteen year old could legally buy a gun is appalling to me. Just because eighteen is the age you become a legal adult does not mean you’re responsible like one.

They are still teenagers who are in high school or college, who don’t know what the world is really like yet. And yet, here we are, giving them weapons of war when they seen as kids just a few months before.

Age is nothing but a number, but in my opinion it just isn’t right to allow a teenager a gun. They don’t know what they’re doing with it, they can’t control it or the people around them. Imagine owning a gun and one of your kids finds it and accidentally pulls the trigger. Or worse, what if your kid finds that gun and decides it’s the perfect time to get revenge on someone who wronged them in the past. Someone who is eighteen is still a kid, no matter what the law says. They are still just as immature as they were when they were seventeen, so why trust them with a gun now?

Having a gun isn’t something that will make someone’s life better, it won’t bring you joy or happiness. In the end, that gun is going to be the reason your life is full of regret and misery.

Alexandra Houser Senior

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OPINION

After reading your article “Sparking A Movement” which talked about the tragedy that occurred in Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School a few months ago, I would like to add my opinion about this topic that has broken our hearts not only us students, but society in general. Based on “Every Town” analysis, the USA suffered more than 38,000 deaths in 2016 due to guns.

These deaths include suicides, homicides, and mass shootings.

Early into 2018, there have already been 1,800 gun-related deaths, a number that speaks to the increasing violence in our society.

As stated in the article, the Parkland shooting has been one of the deadliest shootings, killing 17 teens and adults and injuring many others. Although catastrophes like this happen around the world, I find it difficult to understand how these events can happen in such an advanced country, and world power like the United States.

The solution to this problem seems pretty obvious, ban all weapons. But many concerns arise dealing with the constitutional right to own a gun which is stated in the Second Amendment. On the one hand, I feel that today governments are not taking as much action they should. As Kyra Parrow said, politicians think that what many students are doing now is just a waste of time. Disregarding the fact that the youth play the most important role in this issue. Victims of the tragedy are taking action, promoting marches to protest, and creating speeches reminding people that no one has the power to mute our voice. There should be more control having to do with people who want to own a weapon. Aside from background checks, there should be medical studies to see if the person is mentally ill or not. To prevent catastrophes it is our job as students to fight for improvement in our system, to March for our Lives, and to help prevent any more other casualties.

Good afternoon Editor,

Paola Acosta Sophomore

I think this article is great. I believe there should be more background information about other school shootings. I enjoy how there is a section of the “Florida Gun Laws and Regulations”. I also think there should be a graph of statistics of school shootings in the US. There could also be a section of how to avoid school shooting or what to do during a school shooting as a precaution. There should also be a section of how students can help change this law. But overall, the article was very good.

Sofia Sacco Sophomore

Dear Editor,

I firmly believe that the background check system is flawed and needs to be fixed. I think that HIPPA laws should go out I found this editorial to be very unique. The placement of the the window when one is attempting to purchase a gun. I believe images and facts provided help the reader understand more of that person should be forced to turn in all medical records, but gun control laws and violations throughout the country and if they don’t have medical records relating to mental health they specially in Florida. The description and spark of the movement should have to take a mental health exam. I also believe that from the tragic loss of students and how they were inspired to new gun owners should have to take a training course on gun make a change was very well said and described. Something safety and how to operate a firearm. else that I found interesting was the fact box that was provided I believe that these school shootings are a cultural issue. to show people how many gun owners there are in the United I believe that the violence stems from kids not being raised States. It was a very interesting article. properly, hate, and social media. If kids are not raised to have Nacho Ulvi tough skin, there is a probability that one will act out against Sophomore bullying just like the Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold (the Columbine shooters). I believe that the kids that are raised around guns are the ones least likely to act out in violent ways, Dear Editor, because they understand the reality of guns and the things that they can do. Hate is another big problem amongst people The 2nd Amendment gives American citizens the right to in this country. I hate the fact that people in this country have bear arms. This offers average Americans protection against the problems with people of different skin color and background. I government, robbers, ad anything else they may need to defend believe that we must come together as one and point our guns themselves against. This amendment was created to ensure that overseas. We are one country, one big family and we are all we the government does not have too much power over its citizens, got when bad things go down. and this is still a very valid concern. It is essential that citizens Gonzalo Dorta have a means of protecting themselves against people in power Junior so that they are not taken advantage of. People deserve the right to feel safe in their own homes, and if these people feel that they Dear Editor, need a gun in order to feel secure, then they should have the The Spark A Movement article you wrote in the recent Raider right to own one.

Voice edition moved me to tears. I completely agree with your Julia Rosenthal thoughts regarding people that have interest in knowing what Freshman they can do to help. It is very true that taking action is the most important. I believe people should actually do something for Dear Editor, the cause and not just talk about it. Admitting how they feel and Even with the recent shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas, making themselves heard is step one. They should try changing I still stand firm on my beliefs about gun control. I believe in the the way things are being handled by becoming active politically.

It is much easier to sit at home and write a text sending your second amendment and I believe that all law abiding citizens thoughts and prayers instead of actually taking initiative and that are mentally stable should have the right to keep and bear asking what can be done to help make a change. arms. I also believe that the banning of the AR-15 (Armalight Rifle Model 15) would make no difference in the amount of shootings or the safety of the American people. The shooter could have done the same amount of damage with any pistol just like what happened at Virginia Tech. So called “assault rifles” could also be chambered in .22 (practically one step up from air rifle) which does minimal damage. The firearm is not the problem, it is the person holding it. I dislike the argument that 18 is too young to own a “weapon of war,” because I am willing to bet that they have no problem giving an 18 year old a weapon and sending them to war.

I think that schools should also be guaranteed more security.

One option could be giving jobs to unemployed veterans that are mentally stable. We should be able to station a couple armed veterans at each school. I also think that security guards and teachers should have the option to concealed carry a firearm in school. The main places that shootings happen in are gun free zones.

Valeria Pieschacon Sophomore Dear Editor, This issue has been going on for many years and I don’t think the government will change what they have been doing for so long. I disagree with the government having all the power over guns because they could turn on us. I also don’t know if students protesting will change current laws because many states are pro gun ownership. However, there are countries like Australia that have banned guns successfully. There are many things that can be done to support our safety. If things change it will take time.

Juan Velazquez Payares Sophomore OPINION

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Local food spot a hidden gem.

Only a fool would dare interrupt Boston Dynamics’ SpotMini from opening a door - The Verge

Robots. What’s next?

By Isabella Quiñon Contributor

Located in the heart of Coconut Grove, Vicky’s House is a vintage spot that anyone with a sweet tooth cannot avoid.

Their menu is made up of outrageous milkshakes, ice cream,

By Romina Shadravan smoothies, and more.

Layout Editor Vicky’s House is a little bit secluded, so finding your way in Our technological advancements are meant to be helping us, can be a little difficult. From a street view, it always appears to but are we going too far? be closed. This can potentially lead to them driving away their Everyday technology is becoming more and more advanced own business. They do have another entrance inside of LoKal and it is now getting to the point where our ultimate goal is to next door. If you go into the phone booth inside of LoKal and mechanize human level intelligence. Robots may not exactly press on the wall, you’ll open a “secret” door that leads directly “take over the world” themselves, but people have the power into Vicky’s House. to make them do so. Boston Dynamics created a robot dog Vicky’s House is owned by the same owner as LoKal and it called a SpotMini that is able to open doors. When a person was was opened to serve as a waiting room where the people could attempting to not let the dog pass through a door, the dog just be entertained at the same time. It also looks strikingly similar fought back by using more force. to the owner’s childhood home as a tribute to his mother who These dogs are very similar to the ones featured in Black used to make milkshakes all the time.

Mirror on season 4 episode 5 where the robot dogs were meant Inside, you are welcomed by 80s music and the wonderful to kill any sign of life they found. Boston Dynamics have given atmosphere brought by the enthusiastic employees that enjoy these robots the ability to fight against the closing of a door, they doing what they do. The only way to describe their menu is can probably fight against much more if programmed to do so. unique and original. Milkshakes called Golden Girls and the These advancements could lead to the use of them in war which Breakfast Club complete the 80s feel. may seem helpful to us now, but could be very dangerous in the Even if you do not have a sweet tooth, Vicky’s House still has long run. options for you. They have coffee on their menu and have an Humans have been able to fight their way to the top of the area with old school video games. Vicky’s House has a little bit food chain with the use of technology and high intelligence. for everyone and really does make you feel like you’re in another During the creation of robots, we are attempting to create a era. technology that meets our same level of intelligence. What we On the other hand, the parking is a bit of a pain, but thats are not taking into consideration is the fact that we are risking Miami. The only parking it offers is street parking which can making something that can surpass the capacity of a human be a challenge for most people unless you’re lucky. Other than brain and may even take our place at the top of the chain. the parking everything else is perfect or close to perfect. The Being in the hands of creators, robots may either offer atmosphere is very upbeat and will totally make you feel like our society a helpful hand or may have the ability to cause you are in the 80s. The menu has a little bit for everyone and destruction. even if you aren’t hungry you can still play old school video games to escape the real world for a little bit.

OPINION

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Miami’s Nusr-et Offers Turkish Cuisine at a Premium

By Sara Ferrer Contributor Nusret Gökçe, international chef nicknamed “Salt Bae”, opened his first restaurant in the United States here in Miami. Nusr-et Steakhouse is located on Brickell Avenue. Getting there at a good time is crucial, considering Brickell traffic is usually a pain. Parking is taken care of for you with their excellent valet services.

Nusr-et Steakhouse represents Salt Bae’s Turkish culture. From the finest meats to traditional Turkish desserts such as Baklava, this restaurant will definitely satisfy you. If you are a meat lover Nusr-et Steakhouse has it all. They offer steaks, beef filets, lamb, burgers, meatballs and more.

Although, if you are not looking to spend a great amount of money, this might not be the place to dine at. Entree prices range from $70-$180, and water is charged at $8.

The inside of the restaurant is very nice and spacious. Seating arrangements can be made inside or outside. It is definitely a restaurant to dress up for whether going for lunch or dinner. It’s best to make a reservation so you are seated immediately once you arrive.

The service is mediocre and is something they can definitely improve on. As for the chefs, some of them make your food right next you which was very entertaining and interesting to watch.

From making appetizers on moving tables to cooking your steak with a torch burner right next to you, I was very impressed.

The best part that catches everyone’s eye is Salt Bae himself coming to your table, cutting your steak, and the most important part, sprinkling the salt on top of it all.

Q& A

With 2018-19 Student Body President

Kyle Valdes

Q: What do you hope to achieve as Senior Student Body President and how will you execute your job?

I first have to find out what my responsibilities are, but I want to make sure I focus on students’ concerns.

Q: What are you excited for next year in your new role?

I’m excited to be able to work with the other side of administration and to break the barrier and seeing what can be done to change the experience.

Q: What made you want to run?

I wanted to run mostly for the fact that I lost last year, I was really committed to finally winning.

I thought that it would be nice for some change, instead of having the same person win every year, to finally see someone different and have more exciting rules and hype everyone up.

Q: What can we look forward to in the next school year?

Better jokes of the week Q: How will you help the student body communicate their issues to the administration?

I will have ambassadors from each grade and have them communicate with me and see what problems need to be solved and make sure everything is being addressed.

Q: What was your campaign strategy and why do you think it helped you win?

My campaign strategy was making the buttons, the instagram page, the meme posters, and the song, and I think the entire combination of that and the lack of the other side not having it, was what led me to win.

Q: What was the hardest part of the campaign?

Making everything was definitely the hardest part, because i spent about four hours every single day baking food and making buttons.

The Wind, String (Pictured Top Right), and Vocal Ensembles came together to create an excellent first half of the Encore Spring Concert. In the second half, the Jazz Ensemble (Pictured top left) gave those in attendance a different style of music. Photos by Ningxi Cheng.

Worthy of an Encore: Musicians Dazzle at the annual Spring Concert at UM’s Gusman Hall

By Bridgitte Isom Contributing Writer Prep musicians showcased their hard work during Encore!, this year’s Spring Concert, on Saturday, May 5 at the University of Miami’s Maurice Gusman Concert Hall.

The first half of the concert featured performances from String, Wind, and Vocal Ensemble. Over 300 people attended, enjoying music ranging from the 16th to the 21st century. “Trust in the Mercy of God” and “Furioso,” two pieces composed by Head of Performing Arts Ron Castonguay himself, were also performed

by String and Vocal Ensemble. The end of the first half brought the audience to their feet with music from the “Jurassic Park,” in which both Wind and String Ensemble performed.

Performances by the Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo were featured during the second half of the concert. Senior Sophia Gonzalez-Rebull accompanied Jazz Ensemble, singing Victor Young’s “When I Fall in Love.” Other soloists included sophomore Kyle Bramson on saxophone, Junior Christopher Ricardo on trumpet, senior Mateo Graziosi on trombone, junior Jacob Fein on drums, and Castonguay himself, taking the place of injured alto-saxophonist Brandon Suarez. “I was happy to substitute for Brandon Suarez, who broke his wrist,” said Castonguay. “I ended up having a blast!”

A Music Program Awards Ceremony followed the Jazz Performances, honoring the most dedicated musicians of the year. Among the recipients was sophomore Julia Izquierdo, who was presented with the Best Vocalist award.

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FEATURES

“It was such an honor to be recognized for the work I’ve put in this year and to be surrounded by other students who worked equally as hard to make the program the best it could be this year,” said Izquierdo.

An emotional tribute by the senior class of 2018 to the Music Program ended the evening. The seniors lined the stage, presenting Castonguay and his assistant, Samantha Taylor, with gifts and leaving them with words of gratitude and love. Among the gifts were a trip to Maine for Castonguay, a scrapbook, and a violin for Taylor.

“We were able to say goodbye one more time to the program that defined Gulliver the most for many us,” said senior Luis Martinez. “Although we spoke words of gratitude to Castonguay and Taylor, we knew that we had let the music express the torrent of emotions we felt during the concert.”

The Spring Concert reflected the many accomplishments the Music Program earned this year. Every ensemble achieved straight superior ratings at the district level, and nearly every ensemble repeated that success at the state level. The program was the highest-scoring multi-ensemble school competing at WorldStrides OnStage National Music Festival, a competition in Orlando for high school music programs throughout the country, making each ensemble a national champion.

“Every performance by the Music Program is incredible, but they really surpassed all expectations this Spring Concert!” said sophomore Catalina Muñoz. “I’m excited to see what next year holds.”

What To Pack for Your First Year of College

By Abril Beretta Managing Editor

Like it or not, you will be sharing a bathroom and you do not want to have to bring everything by hand. A toiletry bag will not only keep everything you need in one place, but will make it easier to carry.

From late night snacks to keeping your drinks chilled, a mini fridge can be a lifesaver when one wakes up in the early am thirsty for a cool sip of water.

While this seems like a tedious thing to bring, your clothes do accumulate lint and it can transform a fashionable little black dress into a polka dotted one. It will save your life.

Have you ever noticed how much you rely on the hangers in your house? Yeah, they are necessary but understated piece that many forget when moving.

Packing for your first semester of college can be difficult as you adjust to living by yourself in a new, smaller environment. It’s easy to forget a vital piece just because you don’t realize how much you need it.

Having a designated place for your dirty clothes (apart from ‘the chair’) will be useful, and a hamper is a great place to put them for easy access.

In life, there’s rain.

Bring an umbrella so you can save your books from getting wet and of course the wait for the rainbow afterwards.

Space will be something in short supply in your dorm, and moving your entire life will be no small feat.

Remember to bring something to store your stuff in, or risk a random pile of junk on your desk.

You will be living with a roommate, maybe more than one, and your sleep schedules will be different.

Reading at night (maybe a textbook at last minute) might be unavoidable so be sure to bring a book light with you.

FEATURES

9

Getting into The Summer Grind

By Daniella Tosca Staff Writer

Top: Video clip showing a clay animation about the “Healthy Ecosystem” near Okeechobee before Phosphorus pollutes it. Top Right: Video clip of Junior Michel Roitberg explaining a solution for phosphorus pollution in the Everglades.

Bottom Right: Alan Piggot (far left) and his Environmental Science class pose with the winning check of $2,500 at atrium announcements on May 4th. Photo

by Maegan Azpiazu.

Environmental Science class wins 1st place in Everglades Phosphorus Challenge video contest

By Zachary Letson Editor in Chief Alan Piggot’s Environmental Science Honors class won first place in The Everglades Foundation’s High School Phosphorus Challenge.

The objective of the video was to discuss solutions for phosphorus in the Everglades with creativity. The class won first place in a voting-style competition.

Numerous videos from many different schools were submitted back in March, but only six were selected as finalists for the top prize of $2,500.

The video contains juniors and seniors from Piggot’s class.

During the video, these Environmental Science students discussed the issue of phosphorus in the Everglades and offered various visuals. The upperclassmen talked about the hazards of phosphorus pollution, but still found a way to make the video lighthearted and entertaining.

“The biggest difference from all the other videos I watched was that we had humor [in our video].” said Piggot. In the video, not only can you see both humor

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FEATURES

and information about Everglades Phosphorus Pollution, but certain clay animations gave the film a separate aspect of animation and invigoration.

Seniors Denary Day, Alexander Bertell, Guilherme Amoeda de Sa, Alexander Mayoral, Lily Hochfelder, and Tommy Hernandez, along with Juniors Michel Roitberg and Jesus Fernandez were those seen, while Shani Rupp, Amelia Rich, and Cassidy Woolworth were the editors of the winning video.

In an interview, Piggot also talked about how he was proud of what his class accomplished. The class spent just two 85-minute periods into throwing all the pieces together as a collection of short clips and editing. “I was impressed. I didn’t get to see them do their videos [individually] they went on their own [to do them]. I just had to trust them to do it,” said Piggot.

The class was presented with the check at atrium announcements on Friday, May 4th, 2018.

The winning video by the students can be found at https://www. evergladesfoundation.org/phosphoruschallenge/.

Summertime promises days of relaxation before the next school year commences. But, aside from taking time to have fun and de-stress, it is important that students utilize summer and all the progress it can provide. The months without school are perfect for community service and jobs. Applying yourself voluntarily can make you look very dedicated on college applications.

Many local businesses are open to hiring high school students. Many retailers, supermarkets and food shops have hired young students, giving them job opportunities.

Summer is a great time to advance yourself further in your studies. Apart from the summer courses and field studies that the prep provides, many students also start prepping for the SAT’s and ACT’s. Additionally, reviewing your studies from last year, especially for mathematics courses, ensure a smoother start for your next school year.

Several Colleges and Universities provide useful and interesting summer programs that are great opportunities for students. These programs will look good on college applications and some programs even offer college credits. Most colleges also offer tours during summer.

It is a highly recommended suggestion to go visit these colleges in order to get a feel on what you may like to apply to in the upcoming years.

Five Questions To Ask Yourself This Summer: 1. How can I use my time to advance myself?

2. What colleges may I want to visit this summer?

3. What community service opportunities could help me stand out from other future applicants?

4. What improvements can I make for next school year?

5. How can I improve and develop my extracurriculars?

The “It’s a Small World” event on February 9th showed displayed cultures and the “array” of languages of our school community. The event aimed at helping make Raider students “global citizens”, Head of World Languages Department Maria Molina said.

“It’s a small world” event celebrates cultures

By Itxi Castanho Business Manager On Feb. 9, the World Languages Department organized an event to promote awareness and tolerance of the different cultures that make up the school.

The event gave a chance to the students and staff members to enjoy costumes, food, and traditions of the countries represented.

“We started thinking about it at the end of the 2016-2017 school year. The ‘It’s a Small World’ committee started meeting every week since September 2017 to work on the idea and the logistics. We wanted to promote awareness and tolerance of the different cultures that embody the Prep since we are such an international school in which there are more than 50 nationalities represented within our student body and faculty as well,” said World Language Department Chairperson Maria

Molina. “We also wanted to expose to our school community the array of languages that students have at their disposition, to study and become a global citizen,” said Molina.

Initially, the idea of the event was to make it a whole week with different performances. But is this the first year, the committee decided to do it only one day to see how it would turn out. The committee chose six performances based on the six languages taught at school.

“The idea was to bring “shows’ from the outside community and also from our own student body. We did find out after the event that the student performances are really what the school enjoys the most,” said Molina Before the event, each student received a passport. As the students stopped to

Taylor Swift’s Reputation Tour to make stop in Miami Aug. 18.

By Daniella Tosca Staff Writer

admire the cultural project displays set up at the gym, the person in the table stamped a sticker on their passport -- just like traveling and entering in a country.

The art and architecture teachers evaluated all the projects and gave prizes to the best projects for each language. The committee also recognized and gave a small token of appreciation to those students who performed.

Plans are already underway for next year’s event, which will again include student performances and foods from the different countries. The event will take place sometime in early February.

“We have many other ideas (since we have already met to brainstorm ideas for next year) but we won’t expose them yet… it’s a surprise,” said Ms. Molina regarding next year event.

Pop Artist and ten-time Grammy winner Taylor Swift will return to Miami for her Reputation tour on Aug. 18 at the Hard Rock Stadium.

Swift's sharp change in music and presentation caught the attention of many fans and viewers. Her new album, Reputation, broke multiple records. Hit song, "Look What You Made Me Do" broke the record number of views within a 24-hour period. Swift has been recognized as an elite songwriter and influential person by many world renowned magazines and newspapers worldwide.

Tickets will go on sale through Ticketmaster on Dec. 13.

FEATURES

11

Heroes unite in Avengers: Infinity War

By Abril Beretta Managing Editor Avengers: Infinity War was Marvel’s grand accumulation of years of movies and TV shows. It isn’t hard to believe that so many important characters, each with their own unique personality wouldn’t clash if all thrown into one movie, even the songs are special to each character, but they did it flawlessly.

From comedy to tragedy they managed to flow through multiple movie arcs seamlessly, creating a true masterpiece.

While originally based on the Marvel comics, the movies have created their own lore, but have managed to do so without ruining the characters, like some DC movies have tragically done. In the comics, Thanos seeks to conquer the universe to claim the ultimate prize that he deems to be his love, the impersonation of death -- even though she has never reciprocated his advances in any way. In the movie, Thanos took on a more fatherly role, wanting to destroy half the universe so that the overpopulation wouldn’t destroy it. This fatherly archetype also applies to his relationship with his adoptive children, revealing how in his own, albeit sick way, he loved Gamora and her siblings.

This movie’s box office numbers will probably not be topped for years, and it deserves it. Not only did Marvel spend countless hours and dollars into creating a universe viewers adore, but they have done so while staying true to the

“Avengers: Infinity War” (Marvel Studios)

characters.

A very interesting moment were the post-credit scenes. Here we learn that Ms. Marvel will soon be making an appearance to the big screen. Ms. Marvel historically has been one of the universe’s most powerful characters, so hopefully she can turn around the tragic mess that was left behind after Avengers: Infinity War.

Shows to Catch this Summer

By Laura Attarian Staff Writer No matter how busy, no one can turn down a good TV show binge. Not having to worry about homework or studying, Summer offers plenty of free time to catch up on the most popular shows. Especially with so many shows like: “13 Reasons Why,” “Doctor Who,” “Sense8,” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” premiering.

The new season of “13 Reasons Why” is debuted May 18.

Following the success of season one, Netflix confirmed a second season almost immediately. The first season displayed the protagonist leaving her suicide notes through cassette tapes, and according to Netflix, this season is narrated through polaroids.

Although there is not a specified announcement date, the long awaited next season of Doctor Who premiers presumably this summer. The show revolves around “The Doctor”, who is played by a different actor every season, traveling through time and space in order to save the world. This season stars Jodie Whittaker, the show’s first female protagonist.

“Sense8” will also be returning with its last season, launching on June 8 globally. The show features eight strangers that through a series of events have found themselves connected. In

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BBCA-Jodie Whittaker plays the new Doctor Who in their latest season.

this season the characters must now put their differences aside in order to unite and protect the future from all sensates.

Netflix is also launching the first half of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’s” newest and last season on May 30. The second half of season 4 is said to be released later on in the year. This series is about Kimmy Schmidt as she continues to make self discoveries and learn about the 21st Century after spending 15 years in an underground bunker as part of a cult.

New seasons and shows love to pop up during the summer, so make sure to keep an eye out.

Concerts to Rock Out to in the Summer

By Itxiar Castanho Business Manager

Justin Timberlake May 18

Maluma May 19

Sam Smith July 14

Janet Jackson August 5

Kesha & Macklemore August 4 Carlos Vives September 15

Smashing Pumpkins July 24

Silvestre Dangond July 21

Mix Live

by Uforia June 9

Shakira August 17 & 18 Kevin Hart October 13

NEW RECORD AT EXIT: Four magic nights with a 195.000 fans at Sky Corporation

J Balvin October 28

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Boys Lacrosse wraps up season with District Title

By Zachary Letson Editor in Chief Varsity Boys Lacrosse finished their 2018 season in the regional semifinals after falling to the Belen Wolverines on May 1st. However, with a win over Palmetto 13 days earlier, the team captured a district championship. After a tough stretch, where the team lost five of six to end the regular season, the Raiders did well to bounce back, winning the District Semifinal and Championship games in dominant fashion.

The team dropped their last four regular season contests before winning the two district games. Head Coach Jim Piggot cited the play of Junior Nicholas Hassan and Senior Denary Day as keys to the team’s success on offense and defense. Coming together and ‘gell-ing’, Piggot said, was as important as anything else down the stretch of the season.

With the season now in the books, the coach envisions a constructive offseason ahead. “We’re now realizing that we need to dedicate more time to the offseason. We need to re-focus

This year’s sailing team found ways to improve from last year, qualifying for the Atlantic Coast Championship in New York City. Pictured are sophomores Roberto Lugones (front), and Kyle Bramson (back).

Sailing finishes off memorable year

By Kyle Valdes Contributing Writer This past spring, the Sailing team provided some of their most excellent performances to the extent that some members, such as junior Teddy Bueres, even described it to be “the best year for

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everything and get back to working really hard.”

This being said, there were a plethora of pleasant surprises over the course of the season. “The way the younger guys stepped up this year [played] a big role,” said Piggot. The team had a multitude of upperclassmen, but many of these younger players helped the team get through the “hard parts” of the year.

Although it was not the final game of the season that the Raiders wanted, the team still concluded 2018 with a strong 13-7 record and a district championship. “The team had heart,” said Piggot. “They never gave up. They played hard to the very end, and it was consistent. That’s something you can’t coach.”

Gelling together when it matter crucially helped the Raiders to a 9-7 record, including two dominant district postseason wins en route to a district championship.

Photos via Fox Mar.

the Gulliver Sailing Team.”

What makes this feat so remarkable is the fact that they were able to overcome many obstacles along the way as they marked their spot in the Gulliver record book. For example, as expressed by Junior Kobe Kaufman: “This past sailing season, we’ve had to overcome a lot of different issues as a team. We had problems with attendance, getting as much time as possible out on the water, and for some sailors, the desire to improve.”

However, with the leadership of team Captains Clay Snyder (Senior)and Roberto Lugones (Sophomore), they “have really been able to overcome all of these things and improve greatly as a team.” said Kaufman.

Overcoming these obstacles helped the Raiders maintain the top state ranking until the district championship, where they qualified for both in fleet and in team racing. For the first time in Raiders history, the team managed to tie for the number one spot overall along with two other impressive schools. In addition, they also qualified for other marquee regattas, such as the Atlantic Coast Championship in New York City, New York.

With all of this being the case, it will be hard to replace MVP captain Clay Snyder because of his large contribution to the success of the team. But as the team starts looking towards next year, there is a strong hope that in the fact that they “can have an even more dedicated team so that [they] can qualify for nationals.” said Bueres.

Athlete Spotlight: Sophia Fornaris

By Zachary Letson Editor in Chief Raider Freshman Sophia Fornaris is one of Florida’s best 15 year-old tennis players. Ranked #55 Nationally, Fornaris competes in matches quite often.

“Balancing my academics and tennis training is incredibly challenging. The majority of my tennis peers are homeschooled. Because I travel from ten to fifteen days per month for State and National tournaments, I miss quite a bit of school, but my teachers and classmates have been fantastic,” said Fornaris.

With her busy schedule, Fornaris is forced to balance tough classes with tough competition on the tennis court.

“Compared to my competitors, I train very little, only 3-5 hours per day. So, I have to make every minute count on the court. After I finish training, I have to complete my class work in my 9th grade

honors classes, which can often take me 3-4 hours a night.”

Fornaris has set the bar high every step of the way. In addition to her #3 Ranking for Florida’s Girls 16s division, as well as her lofty national ranking, the athlete has won in numerous different tournaments, taking the USTA National L3 Championship, and winning the Bobby Curtis Florida State Doubles Championship in back-to-back years.

As a Raider, Fornaris also took home Districts, and Regionals in addition to becoming a state finalist. The 15-year-old also earned Miami Herald Miami Tennis All-County First Team honors.

Fornaris has balanced a hectic schedule to maintain excellence on and off the court.

All four of these squads enter the Conference Finals round on a roll, as each won their Conference Semifinal match-ups in four or five games.

In the Eastern Conference, a familiar face takes center stage once again. That would happen to be Cleveland’s LeBron James. James has absolutely dominated the conference for nearly a decade, as his team has made the NBA Finals in seven consecutive seasons, three with these Cavs since returning to his home state of Ohio.

But two games into the Eastern Conference Finals, its Boston Top Left: The Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James looks to pass around the who has captured both games. The C’s have been led by the Toronto Raptors’ Alfonzo McKinnie during the first quarter in Game 3 of an dominant play rookie phenom Jayson Tatum. The Celtics Eastern Conference Semifinal on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at Quicken Loans Aredrafted Tatum with the third pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, and it na in Cleveland. The Cavs won, 105-103, for a 3-0 series lead. (Phil Masturzo/ Akron Beacon Journal/TNS). Top Right: The Golden State Warriors’ Draymond is safe to say that the Small Forward has exceeded expectations Green (23) pressures the shot of the Houston Rockets’ James Harden (13) in the this postseason. Tatum has averaged 18.8 points per game first quarter during Game 3 of the NBA Western Conference finals at the Toyota in these playoffs while leading his team past star Giannis Center in Houston on Saturday, May 23, 2015. The Warriors won, 115-80, for a Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks, and then past fellow 3-0 series lead. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group/TNS) rising stars Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite being just 20 years old, the Duke Basketball prodigy has the Celtics in a position to challenge King James.

Out west, Houston faces off against the dynasty that is the Golden State Warriors. Led by Stephen Curry and now Kevin

By Zachary Letson Durant, the Dubs have won the Western Conference in the last Editor in Chief three seasons, two of which they would go on to become NBA With the first and second rounds of the 2018 NBA (National Champions. But this season, it was offseason acquisition Chris Basketball Association) Playoffs in the books, the Boston Celtics Paul and the MVP-type play of Shooting Guard James Harden are facing the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference that drove the Rockets into seizing the best record in the NBA Finals, and the Houston Rockets match-up against the Golden But their biggest test awaits as the Warriors enter the series State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals. playing as well as they have all year long.

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Only four teams remain in quest for NBA title

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Photo Essay Seniors wrapped up their last year of high school full of enthusiasm and excitement. The graduating class had an exellent year as they were determined to finish off strong and make their last high school memories ones that would last a lifetime. Goodbye class of 2018!

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