the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
fall 2021
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
fall 2021
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
fall 2021
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
fall 2021
Corked A GUIDE TO WINE
THANK YOU TO OUR DONORS! This issue would not have been possible without each of you. Thank you for supporting Distraction Magazine & The University of Miami!
Gabrielle Rosenbloom Jeffrey Burnett Chill-N South Miami Anonymous
THANK YOU,
Fall 2021 DISTRACTION
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WHAT’S p.14
p.34
Corked
Red Rooster
Whether a Lagniappe regular or a vino newbie, you’ll love this 101 guide to wine.
p.29
The Purrfect Catch
Check out this awardwinning restaurant in the heart of historic Overtown.
Read how a falling feline stole the show at our first home game of the year.
The Guide
What the Fork
P.8
CAMP OUT
P.34 RED ROOSTER
P.11
BALLIN’ ON A BUDGET
P.12
FSWHO?
P.14 CORKED
Happening P.20 PLANET KREYOL P.22 SCHOOLED P.25 VAX FACTS P.26 BILLY CORBEN P. 29 THE PURRFECT CATCH
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DISTRACTION
Introduction
P.36 WHERE TO DINE FOR THEIR SIGN P.40 BREAKFAST FOR DINNER
p.58
Paradise: Pack Your Basket p.44
Trailblazers
Throw on your freshest threads, grab your favorite blanket and pack a picnic.
p.78
Delta-8 Learn about the new—and yes, legal—cannabinoid taking over smoke shops.
First-generation students at UM have left a mark on their families and our university.
Fashion P.58 PARADISE: PACK YOUR BASKET
Special Section: Boundaries P.44 TRAILBLAZERS P.47 CROSSING THE LINE P.50 OFF THE CHARTS P.52 CUTTING THE CORD
P.64 WHAT’S YOUR FALL COLOR?
Health & Wellness
P.65 DIGITIZED
P.72 EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON
P.68 CAPSULE WARDROPE
P.74 GYMTIMIDATION P.76 COLLEGE, COCKTAILS & CURVES P.78 DELTA-8
P.54 TRAVELLING TODAY
Fall 2021 2 DISTRACTION D ION
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fall 2021
WHAT IS A BOUNDARY YOU LACK? THE TEAM Refusing coffee.
I can’t say no to anybody!
Editor-in-Chief_Emmalyse Brownstein Executive Editor_Kylea Henseler Managing Editor_Gabrielle Lord Art Directors_Maria Emilia Becerra & Keagan Larkins Photo Directors_Sydney Burnett & Teagan Polizzi Assistant Art Directors_Isa Marquez & Geethika Kataru Assistant Photo Director_Daniella Pinzon PR Directors_Victoria D’Empaire & Katelyn Gavin Social Media Directors_Nina D’Agostini & Lindsay Jayne Fashion Directors_Andrius Espinoza & Erika Pun Fashion Assistant_Navya Kulhari Video Director_Hadieh Zolfaghari The Guide Editor_Mikayala Riselli Happening Editor_Cat McGrath What the Fork Editor_Nicolette Bullard Special Section Editor_Andrea Valdes-Sueiras Fashion Editor_Grier Calagione Health & Wellness Editor_Natalie Santos Faculty Adviser_Randy Stano Supporting Faculty_Bruce Garrison
I make too many “that’s what she said” jokes.
DISTRACTIONMAGAZINE.COM Digital Editor_Ainsley Vetter Assistant Digital Editors_Jamie Moses & Nicole Katz
CONTRIBUTORS Lexi Rosenbloom, writer Bella Cascio, writer Scarlett Diaz, writer Jaime Harn, writer I just have none. Becca Swan, writer Open heart, yet Alexis Masciarella, writer empty arms. Paula Santi Jost, writer Giovanni Aprigliano, designer Lauren Maingot, designer Giselle Spicer, designer Chantal Chalita, designer Emy Deeter, designer & photographer RJ Kayal, photographer Julia Dimarco, photographer
Dropping school work to do something fun.
ABOUT US
The magazine is produced four times per year, twice a semester. City Graphics and Bellack Miami printed 2,000 copies of the magazine on 8.5 x 11 inch, 60-pound coated text paper 4/4. The entire magazine is printed four-color and perfect bound. Most text is nine-point Minion Pro with 9.8 points of leading set ragged with a combination of bold, medium and italic. All pages were designed using Adobe Creative Suite CC software InDesign with photographs and artwork handled in Photoshop and Illustrator. For additional information, visit distractionmagazine.com. Questions and comments can be sent to 1330 Miller Drive, Student Media Suite 202A, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, dropped into SSC Student Media Suite Suite 200 or emailed to distraction305@gmail.com. All articles, photographs and illustrations are copyrighted by the University of Miami.
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DISTRACTION
Introduction
WE LIKE YOU
When it comes to contributors, we’re not picky. Whether you’ve found your niche in a biology book, you’re notorious for doing “nothing” at the communication or business school or you’re halfway into your college career and still wave that “undeclared major” flag, we want to hear what you have to say. Distraction is an extracurricular/volunteer operation made for students, by students, and covers the full spectrum of student life here at The U. If you want to get involved or have any questions, comments or concerns email us at distraction305@gmail.com.
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
M
y fingers feel like molasses typing on this keyboard and my eyes are swollen with a lack of sleep. As I look at my staff right now, clicking and typing away in our office late on a Thursday night, I can confidently say the same for them. It goes uncannily well with this issue’s special section, “boundaries,” as our dedication and perseverance has been tested going into what is most of my staff ’s senior year. I’m no stranger to nor supporter of burnout culture. But in this case, I’d say our exhaustion is a good sign. It means that without a doubt, this first issue of the academic year has been made with an immense amount of love, care and dedication. I am beyond honored to serve as the 2021-2022 Editor-in-Chief, and even more honored to be surrounded by such a talented staff. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed creating it.
“Paradise: Pack Your Basket” explores the fashion and aesthetic behind the perfect beach setup of your dreams.
“Corked” is your 101 guide to the wine world—from tannins to sweetness, you’ll be an expert before your next happy hour.
“Off the Charts” highlights the musical artists that are breaking boundaries in the industry and inspiring our generation.
“Building a Capsule Wardrobe” teaches you can to embrace minimalism and downsize your closet to basics.
photo_teagan polizzi.
photo_sydney burnett.
design_maria emilia becerra.
photo_sydney burnett.
Fall 2021 DISTRACTION
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The Guide
THE GUIDE Welcome to your road map—from learning how to camp in South Florida to getting a 101 intro to wine, The Guide has you covered. Ditch the TikTok tutorials and dive in.
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The Guide
While you might see Miami as more of a beach paradise than a destination for woodsy adventures, you just may be surprised at how many picture-perfect camping spots are within driving distance of The U. And with a new service on campus offering up cheap rentals of anything you could need to brave the elements for a weekend, there’s no better time to grab some s’mores, pitch a tent and go camping. words_mikayla riselli. photo_daniella pinzon. design_maria emilia becerra.
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hile this classic pastime is most commonly associated with more rural and woodsy, camping enthusiasts and newbies alike can find plenty of unique ways to tent-up and indulge in some digital detox here in South Florida. If the idea of spending your precious (and probably limited) free time inside a sleeping bag doesn’t immediately appeal to you though, you aren’t alone. But being in nature has numerous health benefits that just might make it worth it. According to the Yale University School of Environment, it takes less than an hour and a half outdoors to get a “natural high” from, well, nature. The extra oxygen one takes in while outdoors can improve digestion, boost the immune system and combat depression, anxiety and just everyday bad vibes. For camping newbies and OG’s alike, the new Outdoors Adventures (OA) facility on the University of Miami campus acts as a liaison between nature explorers and their next adventure. It offers customized support for any student wanting to plan a trip. Students, said Assistant Director Trey Knight, have “different levels of experience and willingness to either inch or leap out of [their] comfort zone.” But his team, he said, is equipped and excited to support students “however it fits for them.” Avid camper and OA supervisor Griffin Alexander recommends starting off with a state park, which he said
Florida is home to over 150 state parks, so if you’re someone who likes to get out in the woods every, it may make sense to shell out the cash up front for a Florida State Parks Annual Pass. According to visitflorida.com, the state’s official tourism website, this $60 pass gives any individual unlimited day access to all state parks except one, though it does not cover extra expenses like camping or fishing.
are oftentimes “beautifully maintained, safe, nice and a good way to ease yourself into camping.” According to Visit Florida, the state’s official tourism website, there are nearly 200 trails, historic sites and state and national parks in Florida. A handful of these are right here in Miami-Dade County, including Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park, and many of them have camping sites attached. For scuba-certified campers and snorkeling enthusiasts looking to get a little more out of their trip, many hot dive spots in Florida have nearby campgrounds, including Ginnie Springs and Devil’s Den. Some sites, said senior industrial engineering major Gaby Rodriguez, have amenities like electricity and running water while others are “pretty primitive”—for those brave ‘Canes who really like to rough it. New campers, she said, should also check the noise restrictions at these sites; some will let you be as loud as you want, but others are less welcoming to the party crowd. Alexander said his personal favorite campsite is off of Loop Road in Ochopee, about 60 miles west of UM off Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41). Even though he says there are a lot of bugs, most ‘Canes know all too well that mosquitos and South Florida are pretty much a package deal. “You have to pack accordingly,” Rodriguez said, “lots of bug spray.” Weather, she said, is one of the biggest factors campers should consider while packing, as it could be hot, humid, stormy or all three at any moment. Before leaving, make sure to research your siteof-choice, find out about their accommodations and make note of what you may or may not need. Outdoor superstore REI’s checklist for camping essentials includes a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camping pillow, headlamps, flashlights, extra batteries, lantern, camp chairs and table. OA makes many of these supplies accessible (and affordable). Student offers include a $5 portable stove, $4 hammock or $8 tent. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the gear you rent and plan meals and snacks. Last, but never least, safety is key for a successful outing. For beginners, it’s always a good idea to camp closer to civilization. “Don’t be intimidated,” Alexander said, “[Camping has] come a long way. It’s not that scary, backcountry thing that everybody thinks.” Like most things in life, the more you plan ahead of time, the better. But perhaps the most important and ageold rule: Don’t forget to have fun.
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BALLIN’ on a 1. Whip ‘n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe This gem by Sunset Place in South Miami serves up soft and hard serve ice cream any way you want it, and it’s darn good. The flavors are fresh and the extensive list of topping leaves little to the imagination. Want cheesecake pieces? They’ve got it. Need your ice cream to be served inside of a warm, gooey cookie bowl? That too. And best of all, it doesn’t break the bank. At Whip N’ Dip, UM students enjoy 10% off their orders. Is there a better reason to treat yourself?
3. The Big Cheese The name of the restaurant says it all. What could be better? Big Cheese is definitely an perfect spot to go after meetings, football games, or a long night off-campus. Freshman Molly Bergman describes her experience there as “just what [she] needed to chill out and feel comforted in this crazy, overwhelming city.” Calm and homey, and filled with all cheesy things you can imagine from baked ziti to huge pizzas, the Big Cheese vibe is simply immaculate. UM students can get 10% with their ID.
Being a college student can get pricey— especially at the University of Miami, where the tuition is high and the city has so much to offer. Luckily, there are many places in Miami that offer student discounts. So if you’re ballin’ on a budget, look no further. These are just a few spots that will give you a special price just for showing your ‘Cane Card. words_ lexi rosenbloom. design_giovanni aprigliano.
2. Miami-Dade Metrorail
Well, it’s not Boston’s “T” or New York City’s Subway, but the Metrorail in Miami will take you where you need to go. Maybe. But if nothing else, it will take you to Blackbird, Riverside and The Wharf for a lot less than an Uber. And, just for being a student, you can get a monthly pass for unlimited rides for $56.25. That’s half off the usual monthly fare. All jokes aside, if you find yourself frequently heading to downtown, Brickell or the Miami International Airport, this deal might be worth some serious consideration. To purchase, visit UM’s Parking and Transportation Website or MiamiDade.gov.
4. Miami Selfie Museum Is your Insta feed looking a little dull lately? We’ve got the solution! Grab your phone and a friend or two and take a day trip over to Wynwood to visit the Miami Selfie Museum. With backdrops, immersive experiences and art installation, your followers are in for a treat. Miami Selfie Museum is offering $3 off your ticket! While you’re at it, snap some pics at the iconic Wynwood walls for an added bonus.
5. Fairchild Botanical Garden When school gets stressful and you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Miami, sometimes all you need is to be one with nature. The Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, located just two miles from campus, is the perfect place for a scenic getaway. With a butterfly house and a massive variety of instaworthy views, this is the perfect place to take amazing photos and get a breath of fresh air. Adult tickets are normally $24.95, but UM students pay $15.95!
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They say only three things are certain in life: death, taxes, and the existence of a bitter hatred between the fans of the University of Miami and Florida State University. One of these schools has a noble history, five national championship rings and, objectively of course, the smartest student body in Florida no matter what the US News rankings say. The other is FSU. Yet despite the obvious superiority of one of these institutions, they have enjoyed a bitter rivalry for decades. Once per year, they are pitted against each other on the football field where dreams are crushed or achieved, blowouts are sometimes seen and the occasional game has been determined by a last-second field goal. words_ isabella cascio. design_ lindsay jayne.
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12 DISTRACTION The Guide
graduated in 1995. “It’s such a fierce rivalry. It really feels like when people say you bleed orange and green.” UM’s football team formed in 1926 at the freshman level, according to MiamiHurricanes.com, and competed in their first varsity game in 1927, led to victory by coach Howard Buck. Throughout the late ‘30s and ‘40s they moved up under head coach Jack Harding. Finally, in 1954 UM was ranked for the first time in the “Top 10.” It was a taste of the success that was to come. Florida State’s football team, according to the Palm Beach County Seminole Club, was formed in 1900. In 1904, they won their first state title. Just one year later, Florida passed the Buchman Act, which turned FSU into an all-female school for 40 years. During this time, the FSU football players continued their education at an allmale school in Gainesville. It would be years before the brutal rivalry between the two teams really took off, heating up in the ‘80s when both teams skyrocketed to the top of college football. Coaches Howard Schnellenberger of UM and Bobby Bowden of FSU went head-to-head each year in front of roaring crowds as both teams contended for national championship titles and victory in the rivalry game. UM would take home three College Football National Championships in this decade: in 1983, 1987 and 1989. FSU won none. “That was right in the midst of when the Hurricanes were arguably the best team, perhaps of all time. We dominated Florida State,” said Mitchell Shapiro, a professor in the School of Communication who has taught at UM since 1982, referring to the “Wide Right I”
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he year is 1991, and all seems lost for the Miami Hurricanes. It’s the most anticipated college football game of the season, and the No. 2-ranked Miami team is up against their fiercest rival: Florida State University. With less than a minute remaining to win the game, Miami is up by just one point. But FSU is setting up to make a game-winning field goal. FSU kicker Gerry Thomas lines up for the kick. He goes in and the ball soars toward the field goal. It flies foward and begins to drop…just a few inches to the right. Dubbed “Wide Right I” by fans, it was an unforgettable game that propelled the Hurricanes to a national championship win later that year. But this nailbiter was just one of many peaks in a heated seven-decade struggle: Miami versus Florida State. Since they were first pitted against each other in 1951, the Hurricanes and Seminoles have gone head-to-head 65 times. Preceding the 2021 season, Miami held a narrow 35-30 lead. “My second favorite college team is whoever’s playing Florida State,” said former Hurricanes lineman Robert Bergman (class of ’05). He echoed a sentiment shared by generations of ‘Canes. Like any rivalry, this one is kept alive in large part by fans. Football has always been culturally significant at the University of Miami, and football against FSU is undoubtedly part of what makes a ‘Cane a ‘Cane. Students and alumni alike can attest to the uniting power of the long-lived competition. “As a student, you feel such pride,” said Cristie Carter, an alumna who
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UM’s colors were chosen back in 1926 when the university was founded. According to miami.edu the colors represent the Florida orange tree, orange being the fruit and green being the leaves.
game that played out early in the next decade. Even current students know the story. When asked about the UM and FSU rivalry, sophomore Bennett Resnick didn’t hesitate. “There was a game where we won because they missed a field goal. Of course I know about that one,” he said. “That was pretty iconic.” Most of this decade, though, belonged to FSU. The Seminoles won two national championships in the ‘90s and, according to ESPN, “no program played as well for as long as the Seminoles did in the ‘90s.” However, the turn of the century signaled a turning tide for the Hurricanes. After five straight losses to Florida State— including a brutal 47-0 beatdown in 1997, the ‘Canes regained their footing in 2000 when FSU missed yet another field goal to the right. The next year in 2001, UM would go on to win their fifth national championship title. And in 2002, FSU’s ball flew wide yet again—this time, to the left. “It was wild,” said Bergman, the lineman, who played in that game. “Once I realized they missed it, we went crazy.” For many Miami fans, the early 2000s must have felt like a new golden age was dawning. But that brief taste of glory didn’t last. Florida State earned an upset victory in 2005, which was a harbinger of doom for the ‘Canes. Since that game, UM has been largely unable to recreate their old success against Florida State. “Will we ever get back to that?” said Shapiro. “Probably not. Nobody ever gets back to that.” In the 2010’s, seven straight losses to FSU left fans reeling. “[The rivalry] kind of seemed to taper off because both teams seemed to have weaker seasons,” said Carter. But it was long-time fans like Michael Warrell, class of 2020, who kept the rivalry from burning out. For him, hating FSU is more than a hobby— it’s practically a lifestyle. “I don’t know how many anti-FSU shirts I’ve owned,” said Warrell. “I’m a little bit of a die-hard fan.” Warrell said he has attended games since he was 4 years old, and his love-to-hate attitude toward the Seminoles has persisted throughout the ups and downs of the past 20 years. But in 2017, Warrell’s sophomore year, he attended a game that signaled an upturn in fortunes for UM. At the last minute, the ‘Canes won 28-27. “I was close to tears,” said Warrell.
Since that game, the Hurricanes have continued their winning streak. It may not be the same No. 1 vs No. 2 showdown it once was, but regardless, the last four years have proved the rivalry is alive and well. “It feels like there’s a new energy,” said Carter. “That rivalry, even though it’s always been there, feels new again.” Sophomore Amani Mmari thinks so. “I’m excited to watch us stick it to the ‘Noles in a similar fashion as last year,” said Mmari, referring to 2020’s victory of 52-10. “Watching that game made me really feel what it means to be a Hurricanes fan.” As the 2021 season continues, Miami fans look forward to the FSU game with renewed energy. Students, fans and alumni alike said that they are hoping to keep the streak going. “Time to make it five in a row,” said Resnick. “It’s a new era.”
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While we all love Lagniappe House, sometimes it’s fun to get wine straight from the source. Schnebly Redlands Winery is Miami-Dade’s first commercial winery. Stop in to try wine made from exotic fruits like lychee, passion fruit and mango.
Corked
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deck Is it possible to be a UM student at Lagniappe House and not post a picture? There’s a reason this New Orleans-inspired wine joint is a fan favorite among students, and it’s not just for the aesthetic. With customizable charcuterie and a laidback vintage feel, it’s hard to not feel at home at the “house.” But when it comes to knowing their way around wine, some students may be a little more unsure. Fear not—consider this your guide to wine. words_scarlet diaz. photo_sydney burnett. design_isa marquez.
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lapping the bag may be fun, but if that $10 Franzia is getting old, it may be time to try something new. From reds to whites and sweet to sparkling, there’s a wide world of wine out there. When choosing wine, Lagniappe General Manager Matthew Llarena recommended “embracing a sense of adventure and opening your mind to new experiences, which will ultimately result in a better understanding of your own preferences.”
What’s in a Wine? Wines get their color from tannins, a substance in grapes, which is more prevalent in reds than in whites or rosés. Tannin gives red wine its texture and backbone, whereas white wines rely on acidity. This is why reds
are best at room temperature, while whites are best chilled. The flavor in wine depends on where the grape originated. “When in doubt, drink a classical French, Spanish or Italian wine,” said Llarena, “Some of my favorites are new-world wines, but it is always good to have a background in the classics of the old-world European styles.” For newbies, Alejandro D’Apremont, a Miami-based wine importer and distributor, recommends starting with a Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. “Pinot Noir is a very complex grape, hard to harvest, [with] a medium body,” he said. “Chardonnay is the best way to start for me.” Wine, he said, can be a conversation starter, and savoring the taste with good friends can be an amazing experience. “Don’t drink [wine] to get drunk,” he said. “Drink to enjoy. If you have a drink and enjoy a good meal with your friend, it’s beautiful.”
Picks & Pairings Reds
These soul-warming wines are often aged in oak barrels, a process which smoothens the texture and adds flavors that pair nicely with heartier meals.
Cabernet Sauvignon
This wine is usually a main component of red blends like Bordeaux. It’s dark in color and sometimes dense, tasting of black cherries and baking spices. It pairs well with cheeses like Pecorino and aged cheddar.
Pinot Noir
This blend of red floral and fruit notes sometimes has hints of mushroom, beets or rhubarb. It’s very dry with a higher acidity than most reds, and therefore pairs well with cream sauces, nutty cheeses like Gruyere, chicken, pork, duck and veal.
Syrah
Intense and full-bodied with dark fruity flavors, Syrah pairs well with lamb, beef, smoked meats and cheeses like white cheddar or Spanish Manchebo.
Malbec
This Argentinian wine is spicy and tart, has flavors of coffee and chocolate and gives notes of black fruits and oak. It’s commonly paired with steak, pork and fatty fish.
Merlot
With black cherry flavors, sultry mocha and chocolatey finishes, hints of bay leaf, vanilla and plum, Merlot is great to pair with a creamy pasta dish or short rib.
Zinfandel
According to winefolly.com, wine has existed in some form since as far back as 7,000 BC, when ancient tribes from present-day China made the fermented drink out of rice, honey and fruit. Since 4,000 BC, it says, there has been evidence of wine being traded and transported in goatskins, barrels and clay containers. Roman soldiers in 200 BC, it continued, were encouraged to drink it for their health advice we may still take to heart today.
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This red tastes of sweet tobacco and Asian five-spice powder. It’s a bold, medium to full bodied wine with notes of stone fruits, black, blue and red fruits like sour cherries that pairs nicely with barbecue chicken, pork, cured meats and flavorful and firm cheeses.
Whites
White wines can be crisp and refreshing, and they’re best served cold with lighter meals like fish, chicken and fondue.
Sauvignon Blanc
This dry white is very citrusy and fruity with a high acidity. French and Italian Sauvignon Blancs have grapefruit undertones, whereas New Zealand SB’s have a spice to them such as mint or grass or green pepper.
Chardonnay
Think yellow citrus and tropical fruits like banana and pineapple, yellow apples and pears. Chardonnay is great with lobster, crab, shrimp and chicken, to name a few.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio has a light citrus flavor, white floral notes and cheese rinds with a very light body and occasional almond notes. It pairs well with poached fish and most cheeses.
Riesling
A floral wine that is light bodied and highly acidic, Riesling has notes of stone fruit, white flowers, petrol and citrus and pairs well with fondue.
More
Budget-Friendly Recommendations Reds
A wine list wouldn’t be complete without these last two additions!
Josh, Velvet Devil, Naked on Roller Skates, Jam Jar
Sparkling
Whites
It’s hard not to love the bubbly, but not all sparkling wines are the same. Champagne comes from grapes in the Champagne region of France, whereas Prosecco is Italian. Champagne has notes of peach, almond, citrus, toast and white cherry. Prosecco, on the other hand, can feature notes of cream, green apple, honeydew melon, pear and honeysuckle. Prosecco is sweeter and has more froth than Champagne, but these bubbles don’t last quite as long.
Mer Soleil, Butter, Kim Crawford
Others
Hampton Water, Chateau Miraval, Whispering Angel
Rose
A great drink for a summer day, Rose has notes of rose petal, refreshing honeydew melon and citrus zest.
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18 DISTRACTION Happening
HAPPENING Happening tackles today’s hot topics and pioneering pacemakers—take a look into the student organization celebrating Haitian American culture, an alumni-turnedfilmmaker and what the f*ck really happened to that infamous falling cat.
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PLANET
The island nation of Haiti has both a rich and complex background that has planted some its roots here in Miami—Haitian immigrants have for years been an integral part of this city’s community. At the University of Miami, students of Haitian descent celebrate their heritage in Planet Kreyol, an organization dedicated to highlighting Haitian culture and giving back to their community. words_jamie harn. photo_emy deeter. design_keagan larkins.
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aura Francois, a senior majoring in public health and French, fondly remembers her yearly trips to Haiti as a young girl. She used to split time between Léogâne, where her mother is from, and the mountainous region of Port-à-Piment, where her father grew up. Francois said she would wake up early to explore the neighborhoods and reconnect with family members. “Some of my most enjoyable experiences have been in the mountain areas,” said Francois, “which is crazy, because there’s no electricity and no cell phone connection; just pure enjoyment of the region.” Francois, whose parents moved to the United States in their 20s and raised her in West Palm Beach, still has family in Haiti. But even in South Florida, Francois said she grew up around a large Haitian-American population. “Someway, somehow, we always end up finding each other,” she said. When Francois got to UM, she wanted to find a similar community among other students. She discovered Planet Kreyol, joined her freshman year, and has been a part of it ever since. Within the last 12 years alone, Haiti has faced obstacle after obstacle. An earthquake struck the most populated region of the island in 2010, affecting about 3 million residents. Hurricane Matthew hit Haiti as a Category 4 storm in 2016. In 2021, a 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck the southwest region less than a month after President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated. Planet Kreyol aims to help Haitian American students honor this history, keep their culture alive and aid their community. It hosts staple events such as Earthquake Remembrance Day in January, Haitian Spirit Week in the fall and Haitian Culture Week in the springtime. During Haitian Spirit and Culture Week, students experience aspects of the culture firsthand through food, dance, music and more. One staple event for the organization is the Pageant Competition, where a Mr. and Miss Planet Kreyol are selected as a leadership symbol and spokesperson for the organization. Maydeleen Guiteau PierreNoel, a senior music major, currently holds the title of Miss Planet Kreyol. “It was definitely an experience, something that pushed me out of my comfort zone,” said Guiteau, whose parents are originally from Port-au-Prince, the capitol of Haiti. To prepare for the pageant, she picked a talent (playing a French piece on clarinet), made speeches, answered questions, picked and describe a cultural outfit, chose a pageant dress and picked a charity. Guiteau said she and her family keep their culture alive at home in West Palm Beach. “My house, we call it our own Little Haiti because we eat Haitian every week,” she said. “Every holiday, we cook Haitian food. We’re always playing Haitian music. Everyone is always speaking Haitian Creole.” Although most of her family is in Florida,
Guiteau said she has visited Haiti twice, and that her favorite memory was seeing mountains for the first time. “It was jaw dropping, especially knowing that this is the country that I originated from, where my family originated from,” she said. “And then also getting to see my mom’s neighborhood and where she grew up.” In 2018, Guiteau visited Haiti, eight years after a magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit the capital city where her family that remained in the country had lived. For weeks, she said, her relatives were displaced. “I think it took a long time to get ourselves back up into rebuilding the structures the correct ways,” Francois said about the 2010 earthquake. “But unfortunately, with this past earthquake, not much of that was done where the buildings were built correctly, so the regions that were mainly hit, they were hit pretty badly,” she said. Most recently, Planet Kreyol hosted a “Moment of Silence Vigil Event” in August and set up donation boxes for essential items to honor the more than 2,200 lives lost in the July earthquake. “We were really focused on making it impactful,” Francois said. “This is the time we’re going to sit together as a campus-wide community and remember and honor everything that’s happened.” Co-president Isaiah Alzume, a sophomore motion pictures production and business law major, said he is excited to be able to attend in person events and experience the organization in a more personal way. The second-generation Haitian American said he wanted to join this organization even before he came to UM. “I’ve been interested in the Haitian community and seeing how united they were,” he said. “I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of once I got to UM. It really emphasized how great Haiti and the Haitian heritage really is.” Alzume, who grew up with and learned about his culture through his grandparents, said the first time he visited Haiti was a culture shock. “I really did enjoy it,” he said. “The media has a negative stigma around it like, ‘Oh, it’s just a poor third-world country,’ but there are many parts that are really nice.” Christopher Clarke, UM’s director of Multicultural Student Affairs and the faculty advisor of Planet Kreyol, said that his role is to guide students and to make sure that the events being planned are feasible, safe and accessible. The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, which Planet Kreyol falls under, aims to create spaces within the university to celebrate diverse cultures. “Almost half of the student body here identifies in one way, shape or form, as multicultural and diverse. Their identities matter to them, their cultures matter to them. And they need a place
where those things can be celebrated in and outside of the classroom,” Clarke said. For Haitian Americans, Planet Kreyol provides this space where students who share similar cultures and family backgrounds can connect. “Being Haitian, that’s something we all have in common, and I feel like I really connect to them on that level,” said Alzume. “I have something in common to actually talk about when I go there.” “It’s taught me to be invested in my passions,” said Francois. “Because, obviously, as a Haitian, I’m passionate about my culture, but this has taught me to be more invested in it.” Sharing this love of her culture with others, she continued, has grown increasingly important to her. “I have this passion, but I want you to have it too,” she said. “I want you to see how much we love our culture, we put a lot of value in it.” Through all the tragedies, Francois said she wants people to know that Haitian people stay true to the country’s motto: “Unity is strength.” “Despite the earthquake, the hurricanes, the political instabilities for years and years, we stayed true to our resilience,” she said. “We stay true to our rich culture. Yes, there are impoverished areas of Haiti, but just as there’s impoverished areas, there’s very beautiful areas of rich history.”
The United States has become home to the largest population of Haitian migrants in the world. According to the Migration Policy Institute in Washington, DC, most Haitians settle in Florida and New York. “The counties with the greatest number of Haitians were Miami-Dade County, Broward County and Palm Beach County, all in Florida; and Kings County, NY.”
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While American public schools serve a majority of U.S. students and employ droves of dedicated and professional educators, their system is far from perfect. Now, pressing questions about its equity and effectiveness are reaching a boiling point amidst pandemic conditions and politics. Many teachers are finding themselves overstressed, underpaid and caught in a shaky middle ground that is causing some to say goodbye to their students for good. Still, young people are heading into the profession of teaching with bright eyes looking to make a positive change. words_ kylea henseler. illustration_isa marquez. design_ keagan larkins.
Teaching, Fiorovante said, is the ultimate take-home job; and sometimes the public doesn’t realize this. While some people think teachers get off work at 2:30 p.m. and take summers off, she said, most spend nights and weekends grading papers and planning curriculum to the tune of well over 40 hours per week. Summers, she said, are not paid vacations, but time spent on professional development and planning.
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Teacher shortages. Legislated curriculums (hello Critical Race Theory). Mask mandate madness. The headlines are everywhere, and they’re piling up in Florida as matters of education have become the hot topic issue of the times. Some teachers are buying their own classroom supplies on a shoestring budget, others are leaving the profession in large numbers and individuals who may otherwise consider joining the field are avoiding it entirely. Yet, hope is not lost. Other young people are heading into teaching with their heads held high and a goal of making a difference. Institutions like the University of Miami are implementing programs that will help educators get educated without breaking the bank, and public awareness of some of the most important issues just may be growing. Sophie Fiorovante, a junior majoring in Spanish who aims to become a high school teacher, said she has known she wanted to be an educator since she learned to walk. School, she said, isn’t just a place of learning but an institution through which children are fed and given an opportunity to try new activities, play sports and socialize. “It’s a gateway to everything that a student could need for the rest of their lives,” she said. However, she said, some of the biggest concerns she has about her chosen field include compensation, standardized testing and curriculums, and the tendency for high-level decisions about education to be made by those who haven’t stepped foot in a classroom since the day before high school graduation. And she’s not alone. “The profession,” said Matthew Deroo, an assistant professor of digital literacies for multilingual students, “is in for a reckoning.” Big, difficult
questions are being asked, he said, and “there’s not easy answers. If there were, we would have solved school years ago.” It’s no secret, said Jennifer Krawec, an assistant professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning, that teacher shortages are being felt across the country in large part because of low compensation. According to Business Insider, Florida public school teachers made an average salary of $48,800 for the 20192020 school year. Typical teacher pay, said junior Teaching and Learning and Community and Applied Psychological Studies double major Rachel Peck, is “unfair.” “If you’re coming out of college with $100,000 in student loan debt,” Deroo said, “and you’re starting as a teacher at $30,000 to $35,000 a year, that’s kind of a losing prospect from an economic standpoint.” For those who don’t have another means of funding college, he said, this can be a major dealbreaker. According to one study Deroo worked on, he said, one in two teachers left the field within five years. COVID-19 further exacerbated issues, he said, as many educators found themselves forced to learn new technology, teach in two modes at once and address student mental health and virtual access issues. “Teachers didn’t leave schools because of their kids,” he stressed. “They loved them and felt pain to leave them. Teachers left the profession because they felt like they couldn’t align with what the professional was asking them to do.” With what goes on in classrooms becoming increasingly politicized, Krawec said, “it puts teachers in an impossible situation.”
“Teachers show up every day to support their students,” she said. “They’re trying to do that in the midst of these political debates and controversies and it just adds more barriers to teachers’ ability to be effective.” “The biggest problem in the industry now,” said Fiorovante, “is that the people who are making the decisions at the executive table have never stepped foot in a classroom.” This trickles down, she said, from the highest levels of the Department of Education to local school administrators who accept the positions without a background in teaching. Common Core standards, she said, are one example of a national policy that was well-meaning but took control out of local hands. According to this initiative’s website, these standards for English and math have been adopted by 41 states and Washington DC. While Fiorovante said she doesn’t think establishing grade-level baseline for certain subjects is a terrible idea, so that if a student moves from one state to another they can keep up, individual schools and educators should have a greater ability to adapt what goes on in their own classrooms. A balance, Peck said, is needed. “Teaching and curriculum should not be totally government driven,” she said. “It should be community and parent driven.” Of course, she added, that doesn’t mean teaching by popular rule solely what parents want their kids to know or not know. Standardized testing, Deroo noted, also does many students and communities a disservice while lining the pockets of private tech companies and providing little new information. “A good test would give feedback to teachers to help them to shape their practice,” he said, “but in fact most of these standardized tests don’t do that at all.”
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Instead, he said, they show over and over again that students who aren’t native English speakers or who are educated in less affluent areas perform worse than their middle-class and wealthy counterparts. But rather than providing solutions, they force educators to “teach to the test” instead of providing the curriculums that their communities need. It’s not a question of testing, he said, but of funding. To add insult to injury, he said, teachers in urban environments are less likely to be certified in the field that they teach than those in more affluent areas. Over 70% of the teaching workforce is women, he said, with Krawec adding that in elementary and middle schools this number is even higher— and it’s mostly white. Lack of diversity in this field, she explained, is a serious matter, as studies have proven that it’s important for students to have teachers that come from similar backgrounds as themselves. UM, she said, is hoping to address issues like these with initiatives aimed at creating a pipeline through which individuals can become educators in their local
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communities. The program, she said, is still in the works, with development delayed due to COVID-19. Other UM initiatives aimed at the goal of improving the educator workforce, she said, have included offering grants for educators to earn graduate degrees and offering the Professional Teacher Option for university students looking to teach at the secondary level. “One of the fundamental purposes of public education is to be able to have the kind of civic engagement that is critical for our democracy,” said School of Education and Human Development Dean Laura KohnWood. “We need to raise the level of respect, compensation and career outcomes for teachers to attract the best and the brightest, and we need to produce and support a diverse pool of highly qualified teachers.” In teaching at UM, Deroo said “I want to cast for my students a vision of what education could be, but also give them the reality of what education is.” Education for teachers, Krawec said, is always shifting to meet the needs of the classroom. Topics UM is working into the curriculum, she said, include
virtual learning and student mental health. The students who are graduating from UM’s programs, she said, are finding themselves anything but jobless. Most, she said, have offers lined up before graduation. Peck, who hopes to continue her education before jumping into a career, said her goal is to work toward improving an aspect of education that was lacking during her own childhood. “I grew up homeschooled,” she said, “partly because my ADHD was so off the charts. And I heard about my friends just struggling in normal schools; they were penalized for doing neurodivergent things.” Peck’s dream, she said, is to work with these students and ensure schools can be spaces, or have spaces, where neurodivergent students can learn effectively and without being punished for being themselves. Perhaps many of the issues above can be addressed by a point Deroo made comparing education in the United States to that of other countries. In China, said the educator who once taught there, teachers are looked at with the same reverence as professionals like doctors and lawyers. We can’t say for certain where they fall on the reputation scale here, but odds are the average DUI attorney is pulling a higher salary than a local third grade teacher. Though Fioravante and Peck said they knew of all these issues, none of them were deterrent enough to warrant a change of path. The profound change educators will get to impart is benefit enough, they said, and with enough forward momentum the system’s downsides just may change too. “I love kids,” Peck said, noting that helping even one would make being an educator worthwhile. “Every teacher goes into it hoping to make even a little bit of change,” Fiorovante said. “I could name five of the most influential people in my life growing up, probably four of them were teachers.”
While technology is ever-changing, said Matthew Deroo, classrooms are often slow keeping up with the times. “The world around schools has changed greatly,” he said. But most classrooms still look the same as they did in the 1970s, save for the occasional smartboard, he said.
VAX FACTS words_staff. design_isa marquez.
VS
FALSE
TRUE
I don't feel comfortable getting the vaccine because it hasn't been tested enough.
One two-dose vaccine, the Pfizer vaccine, has already received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval. Emergency use authorizations have been granted to the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines.
The vaccine doesn't work. I know someone who still got COVID after receiving it.
Breakthrough cases, said Dr. Roy E. Weiss, UM’s Chairman of the Department of Medicine, don’t mean the vaccines don’t work. Vaccines are doing their job of preventing serious illness and death, as 95% of hospitalized COVID patients are unvaccinated.
I’m healthy and young, so if I get COVID, I’ll be fine.
While young people are less likely than older groups to die from Covid-19, they can still become seriously ill and suffer long term symptoms from the disease according to NPR.
COVID-19 HOTLINE 305-243-ONE-U
Our World in Data:
55.6%
57%
of Americans and of Floridians, according to the Mayo Clinic, are fully vaccinated.
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BILLY CORBEN: MIAMI MAN
Billy Corben is not only known for his documentaries—he’s an avid activist and commentator on all things Miami. Just scrolling through his Twitter (@billycorben) will give you his take on everything from UM football game plays to city commission meetings.
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This University of Miami alumnus has made an impressive mark in the filmmaking world since his time as a student. From ESPN’s “The U” to “Cocaine Cowboys: The Kings of Miami” on Netflix, Corben has a thing or two to say about what it means to be a Miamian. He reflected on his time as a Hurricane and how it shaped his life and career path. words_emmalyse brownstein. photo & design_sydney burnett.
Y
ou can tell a lot about a person by the knick knacks in their office. The items on Billy Corben’s floor-to-ceiling bookshelves say all you need to know: a slew of Florida history novels, a miniature University of Miami football helmet, autographed books on Supreme Court justices. Oh, and an Emmy award—noticeable yet nonchalant against the wall. Corben is a UM alumnus who, for the last two decades, has directed and produced award-winning documentaries unique to the South Florida experience: From “Raw Deal: A Question of Consent” making its way to Sundance Film Festival while Corben was still a student to “The U” showcasing the history of UM football in 2009 to his most recent miniseries, “Cocaine Cowboys: The Kings of Miami,” releasing on Netflix in August. Corben is quick-tongued and witty. He can hardly contain his comebacks and is only slowed down by the shoulder-length locks sweeping in front of his face. As we spoke via video call—about his college experience, his path to filmmaking success and the general wonders and pitfalls of living in Miami (a dichotomy he often refers to as “Florida fu ckery”)—I could feel his energy through the computer screen. But most of all, he’s a storyteller; a term both self-described and given by his former professors. That much was always true—Corben got his start as a child actor. From age 9 to about 15, he appeared in commercials, television shows and movies. But not because he dreamed of Hollywood; Corben was unathletic and needed a hobby. “I did, in fact, strike out during my first at-bat in North Miami Beach Little League,” Corben laughed. “That was not my gift.” Initially, though, Corben said his mother was wary. “She had read Shirley Temple’s autobiography and thought, ‘he’ll be drinking by 8, smoking pot by 11 and doing cocaine by 13.’” But Corben turned out just fine. Maybe because he never considered acting a long-term activity. “I didn’t necessarily, initially anyway, treat it as a craft. And I certainly never saw it as a career,” said Corben. “It was a thing I did. You know, in the same way kids play soccer or go to a dance class, but don’t grow up to be a soccer player or a dancer, per se. It’s a thing you do after school.” But it was at age 10, while on set filming the movie “Parenthood,” he saw possibilities behind the camera. Ron Howard, the film’s director, was a former child actor in the ‘60s and ‘70s. “I was a big classic film and classic TV buff as a kid, so I knew Ron Howard from ‘The Andy Griffith Show’ and ‘Happy Days,’” Corben said. “Seeing him on TV as a child actor, and then seeing him 20 years later in charge, directing ... right away, that was the seed that planted in my head. If there was a future in this, that was what it was.” Corben followed that passion at New World School of the Arts, a public magnet high school in Downtown Miami. During his sophomore year, Corben and his classmate Alfred Spellman (who he’d met in middle school in a television production class) formed their first production company: Spellman Corben Productions. It was the beginning of an enduring partnership. Before ultimately ending up at the Univreisty of Miami, Corben was headed to Boston for college. He had picked a roommate, put down a deposit and even pre-purchased the plane tickets for winter and spring break at Tufts University.
But Corben and Spellman, who was set to go to the University of Florida, weren’t quite ready to give up their alliance. “We worked on a lot of projects together, subsequent to TV production in middle school, and we wanted to continue to give that a go,” said Corben. So they decided, in “virtually August” of 1996, to stay in Miami together to keep building their company. Plus, Corben said, the nearly full-ride scholarship was hard to refuse. “I’ll just tell you: UM was my safety school,” he said. “But it saved me. Because that’s what safety schools are supposed to do.” Back then, Corben said, UM’s film program was lacking. His classes met in “a wooden shack” building shared with the photography program, where there was almost always film stock covering the floor. It was near where the Nursing and Health Studies building sits today. But one of the professors, Rafael Lima, made it worthwhile. He had already been Corben’s playwriting teacher at New World his junior year of high school. Now, Lima was teaching screenwriting at UM. The hardest and best part of Lima’s college class, Corben said, was that “he just got you to write.” “The discipline of sitting down and not being disillusioned by that taunting blinking cursor on an empty page, and just taking it and attacking it,” said Corben, “he instilled that in us.” Lima, who has since retired, said that Corben’s talent was always obvious. “The thing that sticks out about Billy is his absolute dedication to what he wanted to do in his life,” Lima said. “Even in high school, he had a single-minded dedication to his art. On top of that, he had this rocket fuel of energy helping him to hone his craft.” Lima said he follows Corben on social media and keeps up with his work. He’s proud. “It isn’t just that he’s a great documentarian,” Lima said. “It’s that all good documentarians, all good playwrights and all good screenwriters understand the basic fundamental underneath it all: storytelling.” Outside of theater and film, political science courses became a highlight of Corben’s academics. He had a passion for activism and didn’t shy away from a good debate, so Corben took all of the law and politics-related classes he could fit in his schedule. If you scroll through Corben’s Twitter posts today, you won’t be surprised. “That would have been my path,” said Corben, if he hadn’t ended up in the filmmaking world. “I was always looking for professors who would challenge me and would make it more fun, especially towards the end of my academic career when I was old,” said Corben. “I was looking to learn something and meet an interesting professor and read an interesting book.” He found just that in June Dreyer, who has been a professor at UM for about 42 years. Dreyer is an expert in Chinese politics, a class Corben ended up taking on a whim. “I was recommended to take her class, and I was like, what interest do I have in Chinese politics? What do I give a shit?” he said. “The course was so hard, like insane Ivy league level. I don’t regret it. She was fucking fabulous.” Dreyer remembers Corben as a student, even though she said she hasn’t watched his films yet. “He had an inquiring mind. In hindsight, that’s a very good characteristic for a documentary filmmaker to have,” Dreyer said. “He also impressed me at having a great deal of energy, and of course that’s another characteristic good filmmakers
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should have. They won’t let go of a topic. And he was the type who didn’t let go. So I’m not surprised he’s done very well.” Outside of class, Corben said he wasn’t very involved in student organizations and activities. Despite his vast knowledge of Hurricane football history (as showcased in the documentary “The U” he would produce years later) he rarely attended football games as a student. “I mean, the team sucked when I was there. And I was a nerd,” Corben said. “And between my roommate and I, someone had to do the fucking homework. He did enough partying and football games for the both of us.” He and Spellman were busy with Rakontur, the new name for their film venture. “All my extracurricular time was for our company. I also wasn’t minded toward post-grad, so I wasn’t looking to build a resume for an academic career.” So busy, in fact, that Corben took two leaves of absence before graduating in 2002 to work on films. One of those leaves was to make “Raw Deal: A Question of Consent,” a documentary about rape allegations at a University of Florida fraternity. That project took him to the Sundance Film Festival in 2001. But he didn’t miss out. Corben had been immersed in ‘Cane culture since childhood. His father and grandfather were season ticket holders for years. “When I was a kid, the Orange Bowl was like, off the chains. I mean, whether it was the way the building seemed to sway under your feet in a full stadium or the way that you felt like you could dive off the top level and land on the field,” said Corben. “And the smell of the men’s rooms ... Jesus. It was a shithole, but it was our shithole. There was a festivity to attending the games that was unique.” And though Corben said he “didn’t drink much” in college before he was 21, he did party. “I’m trying to think of a fun memory that I can share on the record,” Corben laughed. So his advice to college students is simple: Lighten up. “Don’t take academics so seriously that you’re not enjoying the challenge and fun of learning and not taking advantage of the opportunities to find interesting people and professors and subjects,” he said. “I miss it sometimes. I miss the challenge and I miss the learning. I miss finding like-minded and not like-minded people to butt heads with.” But, having lived in Miami his entire life, Corben has plenty to say about how the city can be better. “It makes me sad to say this, but it feels like in my lifetime there has been a widening compassion gap in this community,” said Corben. He said the lack of turn signal usage is a simple analogy for the phenomenon. “The way we drive in this community says a lot about how we treat each other. And there are times when I find it fucking toxic,” he said. “It says something deeper about your character, your personality; your ability to share community, to share roads and to have respect for other people and what they’re going through, where they’re going and how they’re attempting to get there. That’s why they call it ‘Miami’ and not ‘Our-ami’ or ‘Your-ami.’ It’s My-fucking-ami. And I say this to hang a lantern on our problems. Because that’s the first step to solving them.” But Corben said he can’t deny one of his favorite things about living here: the diversity. “I get nervous when I travel and there’s too many white people. And I can’t really have coffee any place else,” he said. “Like, I will never go to Ultra. But I love that it’s here. That’s the thing about Miami, the diversity and silos that exist. There’s something for everyone.” His goal in making films unique to this area is to highlight just that. “We tell stories of our fellow Miamians, who maybe have different experiences and different backgrounds, and came up differently, or at a different time than we did. Amplifying those stories hopefully creates a piece of popular entertainment, but also greater understanding,” he said. “I’m into retro and nostalgia, so a lot of our documentaries are essentially time capsules, or a way to memorialize this history which would otherwise be lost to this ever-changing population and skyline.” And as fate would have it, our conversation ended at 3:05 p.m.
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FILMS Cocaine Cowboys Docuseries on the Miami cocaine kingpins of the ‘80s. Stream it on Netflix. Released 2021
The U Part 2 The comeback of the Hurricane football dynasty. Stream it on ESPN & Amazon Prime Video.
Released 2014
Dawg Fight Documentary on Florida backyard brawls. Stream it on dawgfight. vhx.tv. Released 2015
Screwball Investigation of the MLB’s infamous doping scandal involving Alex Rodriguez. Stream it on Netflix. Released 2018
THE
CATCH
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Just minutes into the second quarter of UM’s home opener football game, the ‘Canes were barely holding off Appalachian State. But no one’s eyes were on the field. They were fixed toward a deck above the student section, where fans hollered toward a dangling object. words_staff. photo_emmalyse brownstein. illustration_giselle spicer. design_lauren maingot.
“W
e were just watching the game and we saw all of these people looking behind us. My friends and I were wondering, ‘what’s everyone looking at?’” said sophomore Emilia Weiss, who was sitting in the center of the chaos. At first Craig Cromer, a facilities manager at University of Miami and longtime season ticket holder, couldn’t make out what the creature was from his seat in the first row of section 208, either. But soon, the paws and tail came into focus. Weiss, Cromer and the rest of the crowd nearby could see it was a cat holding on for dear life. “When we saw it dangling, I was like man, how are we going to catch this cat?” said Cromer. “I didn’t think we’d be able to catch it barehanded. That’s when the idea came to me.” Cromer snatched the American flag he and his wife bring to every game from its zipties on the handrails and prepared for the catch of a lifetime. Meanwhile Weiss, who is a biology major on a pre-veterinarian track and has emergency veterinary medical experience, headed toward Cromer. “By the time I got there, the cat was hanging by two paws,” she said. Cromer and his wife were holding the 3-by-5-foot flag on either side, braced for impact. “You could tell the cat knew how bad of danger it was in because it started to urinate,” said Cromer. Eventually the cat lost its grip, fell directly onto Cromer’s American flag, then sprang off toward the student section below. A fan grabbed the cat and held it up for the crowd, who roared in cheer. By this time, Weiss had made her way to the center of the action. Another student, who Weiss said
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told her she was also certified, helped her examine the cat. “The other girl had the front end of the cat, holding its jaws shut to make sure it wouldn’t bite me while I was checking its spine and hips,” said Weiss. There was no obvious bleeding or spine injury. “But I saw one of the hips was dislocated and the other one was a little out of place, as well,” she said. “I adjusted those really quickly until the cat got startled by other people trying to touch it. Then it started attacking the girl who was helping me.” Weiss said she put the cat down to avoid getting bitten, and it eventually ran away, biting two students on its way out. “I was kind of glad it ran away because I knew it was in OK enough condition to run,” she said. Weiss and Cromer said they had no idea how the cat got into the stadium, but they suspected it was a from a nearby neighborhood. “It definitely looked like a pet. It had a healthy weight and nothing was wrong with its fur,” said Weiss. “I know that it fell onto the flag on its back. If it had fallen on the ground like that, there’s no chance it would’ve survived.” Cromer said he went back to watching the game after the ordeal, but covered in a spilled soda, smellling the lingering cat urine and watching the sub-par performance from our foootball team, he left during the third quarter. “I’m glad the cat’s OK. But I hope that I don’t ever have to do it again,” said Cromer. The ordeal went viral almost as soon as it happened—The Today Show featured it on “Hoda’s Morning Boost,” and one video posted on Twitter has garnered over 10.5 million views to date.
Senior, College of Arts & Sciences
“Just driving in, there were tears in my eyes. It feels good to be back after a full year. Especially being a senior makes it a little different and I cherish it even more. Happy to be back and happy to be a ‘Cane!”
“Having students back this year is great; you can feel the energy in the stadium rise every time the student section gets involved. I always like to hang out by the student section for big moments, and the energy they bring allows me to do my job much better. It was great to be back. I cannot wait for the rest of the year and all of our ACC games.”
Alumni C/O ’98 & Season Ticket Holder
“I’m at an age in my life where this is, for me, like the greatest thing ever. To see my old friends, to see our tailgate group, to hang out with alumni…it has been amazing.”
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32 DISTRACTION What the Fork
WHAT THE FORK Get ready to indulge your taste buds! In What The Fork, savor the flavors of one of Overtown’s tastiest gems, use astrology to choose your next date night spot and try having your breakfast for dinner the next time your kitchen skills are lacking inspo. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, just turn the page.
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RED ROOSTER
Known for its prominent historical significance as a Black cultural hub in the ‘50s and ‘60s, Overtown hosted performers like Aretha Franklin and Sammy Davis Junior. During this time, the neighborhood was a safe haven for Black artists who performed in Miami Beach, where they weren’t allowed to stay due to segregation laws. Despite its rich history, the community was severely impacted when the construction of I-95 split it in half. Some would say it has not yet returned to its former glory, but one local restaurant, Red Rooster, is seeking to change that. words_rebecca swan. photo_rj kayal. design_keagan larkins.
The Red Rooster, a vibrant Southern-inspired restaurant recently named the “Best New Restaurant in Miami,” by Miami New Times, is making it clear that its purpose is bigger than just making great food. Located in the former Clyde Killens Pool Hall, a well-known hangout spot for famous musicians in the mid-1900s, the restaurant embodies the spirit of Overtown’s history. Whether it’s through the decorative snippets of old advertisements for green books or weekly live music performances that pay homage to the area’s musically-driven past, Red Rooster wants its customers to experience a side of Miami that some may not know existed. “The neighborhood has a history of culture, of music, of food, of really great entertainment,” said Derek Fleming, one of the developers of the restaurant. “This project represented an opportunity to bring all that back to life in a really bold way and also to give Miami a new perspective on what Overtown is.” The cuisine itself is a love letter to the many cultures that make up the community. A quick glance at the menu shows a variety of Southern and Caribbean flavors, as well as dishes influenced by traditional Black and Latin-American meals. With such a complex menu, it can feel daunting to know
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what to order. But Fleming recommends that students start with items they’re more familiar with, such as pasta or chicken dishes, and order one of the less common items to try or share with friends. Over the years, the restaurant’s home community and its residents have faced many setbacks as a result of policies perpetuating racism. According to Robin Bachin, a history professor and assistant provost of the Office of Civic and Community Engagement at the University of Miami, the city of Miami mandated that many Overtown residents move to Liberty City in the 1930s to make room for a growing business district, further reinforcing segregation. Two decades later, Overtown was again subject to the detrimental impact of Miami’s development. Like many neighborhoods around the country with large Black populations and a lack of political and economic power, it was chosen as a site to construct a major highway: I-95. The neighborhood’s land was seized from residents through eminent domain, a government process which allows the U.S. government to take over personal property for public use. While in these cases,the government must pay for the land they take, this did little to help most residents of Overtown. Many were renters, not owners of the property they lived in, and therefore did not see government checks and found themselves displaced and isolated. Miami’s public transportation system also
had yet to be created, leaving many displaced residents isolated and disconnected from their community. While this community was once a booming musical hotspot, and potentially could be again, a majority of students (53%) who answered a poll on Distraction’s Instagram said they have never visited the neighborhood. By a wider margin, 58% said they don’t know the historical significance of the neighborhood. Fleming, for one, hopes for this to change. “Overtown is one of the most enriched and special communities in Miami,” he said. “This community deserves the attention and acknowledgment that any other community in the city gets.” For Fleming, having a restaurant in Overtown means investing in the community, not just existing in it. When the restaurant’s original opening date was delayed due to COVID-19, Red Rooster used the time to establish a local food bank. It also seeks to hire from within the community, and build relationships with community members from a place of humility and openness. And while sometimes the opening of tourist-attracting businesses in historical communities like Overtown bring concerns about gentrification, Fleming said Red Rooster is looking to combat the phenomenon. After all, he said “a lot of what the spirit of the foundation of Rooster is about renewal,” he said. “It’s about reinstituting what was already here.” Red Rooster, known for its high-quality cuisine, isn’t just a sit-down dinner spot. The foodie destination has a nextdoor Creamery that serves up sweet treats like waffles, milkshakes and a signature cornbread ice cream flavor.
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Red Rooster finds a way to make the old new again without feeling manufactured or elitist.
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Happy Hour
Weekdays 5-7p.m. No Happy Hour is complete without a cocktail, especially for only $8! The Uptown looks as fancy as it tastes—it’s garnished with a gold leaf and made with elderflower liqueur, grape spirits, brandy and lemon juice. The Fried Yard Bird dish highlights the southern cooking that Red Rooster prides itself on. At just $7 during happy hour, it’s everything you could ever want from fried chicken. Plus, in typical Red Rooster fashion, it includes an orange honey glaze for a memorable twist. Chocoholics can appreciate one of the Red Rooster’s most beloved creations: I’m in Love with the Cocoa. The chocolate cake, mousse, pecan praline and coconut sorbet combine to create this sweet and salty treat! It’s great for sharing, even though you may not want to!
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FOR THEIR
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Choosing the perfect restaurant spot for your date just might lead to enjoying a little extra dessert at home. But the seemingly endless array of options in Miami can make it tricky. One factor can help you narrow it down to impress that special someone: their birthday. If you know their astrological sun sign, you’re set! You’d be surprised just how much says a lot about what they’ll enjoy. words_alexis masciarella. design_lauren maingot.
Brickell is a go-to for a fancy meal to satisfy a Taurus’ high maintenance needs.
Whenever I’m in need of some good lovin’, I always call my Cancer shawty. This water sign is the sweetest of the zodiac, despite their crabby moments. The Salty Donut’s smallbatch craft donuts are the closest thing to perfection, and Cancers are just as special.
ARIES Bacon Bitch 1001 Collins Ave. Miami Beach, FL 33139 This fire sign is known for their supreme ambition and brutal honesty. More often than not, they can and will be grouches, which is why Bacon Bitch in Miami Beach is perfect. The moment you walk up to the host stand, you’ll be greeted with a cheery “Hey Bitch!” Your Aries date will thrive in an environment where they aren’t penalized for acting hangry over a classic American breakfast.
6022 S Dixie Highway South Miami, FL 33143
GEMINI ABiTE Juice Bar and Cafe 1239 Alton Rd. Suite 2 Miami Beach, FL 33139 Like a freshman’s libido, the Gemini is the sun sign that just won’t stop. Their constant urge to discover and share new experiences can cause this air sign to get restless easily. A spot like ABiTE Juice Bar and Cafe is ideal, since its variety of smoothie bowls and toasts will please both sides of the twins.
LEO Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ 11327 S Dixie Highway Pincrest, FL 33156
TAURUS Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 600 Brickell Ave. Suite 150 Miami, FL 33131 Stubborn yet classy, a Taurus loves to be wined and dined. Money is no object to this earth sign, and they are willing to throw some bands on what is worthy. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in the heart of
CANCER
A Leo always gets what they want. If they don’t, nobody is happy. Given their passion for being in control, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ is ideal for this feisty fire sign. Gyu-Kaku offers a personal grill installed at every table, where you instantly become an expert cook. Take your Leo date here if it turns you on to see them in Gordon Ramsey mode.
The Salty Donut
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VIRGO Chick’nCone Wynwood 2039 NW 1st Pl. Miami, FL 33127
Libras unconsciously bring stability into their lives and ours. These social butterflies always counterbalance their energy with relaxation, and they’re no stranger to the munchies. There’s no better place to chill out than the Midtown Creamery, so next time your Libra Tinder match is craving ice cream, let them pick out a few scoops in their favorite cereal bowl. Who knows? Maybe you’ll get another kind of cream in return.
SAGITTARIUS POC American Fusion Buffet & Sushi 2121 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Coral Gables, FL 33134
Humbled and approachable, the Virgo is not hard to please. Chick’nCone Wynwood is known for their delicious handheld chicken and waffles. Plus, nothing on the menu is going to break the bank. A Virgo finds practicality attractive, so taking this earth sign on a simple fast-service, fresh-food date would be enough to keep a smile on their face and more cash in your savings account.
The first thing that comes to mind with a Sagittarius is adventure. This curious fire sign yearns for travel, and a place like POC American Fusion Buffet will allow them to explore the world in just one night. Offering a vast array of dishes in a “non-traditional” buffet-style, nothing is more satisfying than this true culinary experience.
SCORPIO Crab Du Jour Cajun Seafood & Bar 3201 N Miami Ave. Unit 106 Miami, FL 33127
LIBRA Midtown Creamery 2690 NE 2nd Ave. Miami, FL 33137
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Is it just me, or do all Scorpios pretend like they aren’t the most manic individuals on earth? Regardless of their strange appeal on the surface, they can get wild if you take them there. Crab Du Jour Cajun Seafood & Bar draws in foodies who aren’t afraid of a little heat. Order one of their fresh seafood boilings to show your date you can really get down and messy.
CAPRICORN Hachidori Ramen Bar 8222 NE 2nd Ave. Miami, FL 33138 Either you know and love a Capricorn, or can’t stand the goats. These earth signs can be loners at times, but they are endlessly loyal to those they hold close. Hachidori Ramen Bar offers bold flavors, dim lights and throwback hits that are meant to transport you to Tokyo’s dining scene. This idea may appeal to
your Capricorn date to escape the frenzy of “The Magic City’’ and focus on romance.
PISCES Margot Natural Wine Bar 21 SE 2nd Ave. Miami, FL 33131 Pisces show love to food just as much as to the people they call friends. Indecisive but kind, this water sign enjoys pleasing others and it’s in their nature to let their partner pick the culinary destination. Dining at Margot Natural Wine Bar offers a selection of eclectic small dishes that are easy to share. This tapasstyle restaurant always has different foods to try and plenty to go around.
AQUARIUS Samurai 8717 SW 136th St. Miami, FL 33176 Aquarius is always the life of the party. At least, they think they are. Bubbly and confident, this air sign takes pride in their independence. They love to be showered with attention, and a place like Samurai would excite their free-flowing spirit. This Japanese steakhouse, where chefs perform tableside tricks while cooking in front of you, is an unforgettable experience fit for this fun sign.
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FOR
Choosing what to whip up for dinner can be a drag—especially if you’re low on groceries, time and creativity. So if you’re ever in a bind, consider having breakfast for dinner. It might feel funny to scramble an egg or toast a waffle in your evening attire, but there’s no bad time to enjoy a delicious meal. It’s classic, easy and dependably good. After all, breakfast isn’t called the “most important meal of the day” for nothing! Next time you’re facing the midnight munchies, throw together one of these dishes. words_ nicolette bullard. photo_ julia dimarco. design_ giselle spicer. model_nellie johnson.
Brunch, arguably the most trendy meal, has a new competitor called brinner. Some would rather eat breakfast food in their pj’s after work than wait for a table at a crowded restaurant on a Saturday morning. Is there really anything wrong with that?
THE MIAMI DINER SOBE 919 Alton Road Miami Beach, FL 33139 Monday-Saturday: 8 a.m.–12 a.m. Sunday: 8 a.m.–10 p..m. Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 2-5 p.m.
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Whether you like it savory or sweet, sometimes breakfast tastes best at dinnertime. Or at 2 a.m. after a long night out … studying.
CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE What you need • 2 cups flour • 1 ¾ cup milk • ½ cup vegetable oil • 2 eggs • 1 tbsp white sugar • 4 tbsp baking powder • 1/4 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract • 10 Oreo cookies • 1 banana • 3 scoops of vanilla ice cream • ½ cup chopped walnuts • Nutella and chocolate syrup to taste Directions 1. Preheat waffle iron. 2. Beat eggs with a hand beater until fluffy, adding milk, vegetable oil, vanilla, sugar, salt and flour until smooth. 3. Spray non-stick cooking spray onto the pre-heated waffle iron. Pour mixture into iron and cook until golden brown. 4. Top with sliced bananas, chopped walnuts, crushed Oreos and vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with as much Nutella and chocolate syrup as your heart desires.
BADASS BLT What you need • 4 slices bacon • 4 romaine lettuce leaves • ½ tomato, thinly sliced • 2 tbsp mayonnaise • ¼ avocado • 2 slices asiago cheese bread • salt and pepper to taste Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 °F. Arrange bacon in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet. 2. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the strips are crisp and browned. 3. Toast bread until golden. Spread mayonnaise on each slice. 4. Assemble the sandwich by adding lettuce, followed by thinly-sliced tomato and bacon to one slice. Top with sliced avocado, and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Cover with other slice.
HOT AF HAM, EGG AND CHEESE SANDWICH What you need • 2 tbsp butter • 1 bay leaf • 1 cup whole milk • 2 tbsp flour • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese • 2 slices thick sourdough bread • ¼ cup grated Gruyere cheese • ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese • 2 slices of ham • 1 egg • salt and pepper to taste Directions 1. Melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and stir constantly for two to three minutes, do not allow the sauce to brown. Add milk and bay leaf, stir occasionally for 10 minutes or until sauce thickens. 2. Remove bay leaf and stir in Parmesan. 3. In a separate pan, fry egg with butter, salt and pepper. 4. Place sourdough slices into pan with sauce. Fry until golden on both sides. 5. Place ham and Gruyere cheese on one slice of sourdough. Let cheese melt slightly. 6. Place fried egg on top, along with cheddar cheese. Top with second slice on top and let cheddar melt.
VERY VANILLA PROTEIN SHAKE What you need • 1 cup milk of choice • ½ cup ice cubes • 1 banana • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder of choice • 2 tsp honey • dash of cinnamon • whip cream (optional) Directions 1. Add all ingredients to a blender in listed order for easy blending. 2. Blend until smooth. 3. Top with whip cream if desired and enjoy.
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BOUNDARIES Whether physical, mental or societal, boundaries exist in all aspects of life. How people set and break them is what defines true progress. This Special Section is here to explore all the ways our generation is doing just that, whether it be the shift in boundaries between students and parents during college, the literal line crossed by Miami’s sport slackliners or how some artists are pushing back against the music industry.
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Graduating from college is always a major accomplishment, but for first generation students it’s not just a personal achievement but a family milestone. These students are as diverse a group as any, but they often share a common work ethic and penchant for resilience exhibited by a determination to succeed, sometimes against all odds. Many go on to become role models in their families and communities, inspiring younger generations to blaze new paths of their own. words_kylea henseler. photo_nailah anderson. design_lindsay jayne.
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“F
irst Gens, We Get the Job Done” was the message artfully scrawled atop University of Miami alumna Annette Rizo’s “Hamilton”-inspired graduation cap as she crossed the stage at her spring 2021 commencement ceremony. Like roughly one-fifth of UM’s student body, she was among the first members of her family to graduate from college. According to Bobby Gallagher, a graduate assistant for UM’s first-generation support program Empower Me First, the term “first generation” applies to any student whose parents have not completed a bachelor’s degree program or higher. As in any community, first-gens are not a homogenous group. They all bring unique experiences, backgrounds, struggles and strengths to the table. Still, many seem to share a sense of pride in belonging to this group. Others have reported facing challenges that some other students may not consider. Rizo, who was born and raised in Miami, is not just a first-generation ‘Cane, but a first-generation American. When the Nicaraguan Revolution broke out in the late ‘70s and ’80s, she said, both sides of her family left their homes for the United States. Finances were tight while growing up in South Florida, but her family pushed education as a way out. From the time she started high school, Rizo worked toward her goal of attending college and, ultimately, law school. “My sister sent me a memory from Snapchat,” said Rizo, who transferred from Miami-Dade College, “And it’s when I got my acceptance letter. I see myself crying and screaming like ‘I got in, I got in, I’m going to UM!’” While Rizo said she had the time of her life at The U, she also felt immense pressure as a trailblazer in her family. “When I graduated,” she said, “the first thing that popped into my head was ‘I did it.’ And I mostly did it for my grandma. She left two or three businesses in Nicaragua just to make sure the family could get to the United States.” Rizo now works for the State Attorney’s office in Miami and says her little cousins are already looking up to her as an example of what’s possible. This aspect of Rizo’s experience is shared by many first-generation students who, after starting or graduating college with comparatively little help, find themselves as a resource and mentor for other members of their families and communities. “It’s something interesting when you have older siblings who have done it,” said senior criminology major Paul Douillon, whose sisters attended college before him. “But it still doesn’t take away all of the challenges that you have as a first-generation student.” Kysha Harriell, executive director of the Office of Academic Enhancement and a former first-generation student herself, said these challenges can be as vital as having to fill out forms like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) alone to as seemingly informal as not knowing how to dress for class. Imposter syndrome, Douillon said, can be a problem for many. “Sometimes I didn’t go for things because I didn’t feel like I was qualified,” said junior Cassandra Michel, a double major in psychology and community and applied psychological studies. “I think I realized it was because I never saw people in my family do these things. Even firstgen kids around me were timid in doing certain things.” Skills that could be considered “cultural capital,” like knowing how to write resumes and send professional emails, she said, are often not taught at home to firstgeneration students. “Most people can go to somebody else and say, ‘Hey,
I don’t know how to make my resume, can you help me out?’” she said. “But when you’re first gen, you’re the person making your resume.” While the parents of first-generation students may not have their own degrees, many are supportive of their children even if they don’t understand everything about college. Douillon, who commutes to campus from Homestead each day, said his mother makes him breakfast most mornings so he doesn’t have to eat out. For the parents of senior psychology and communications double major Becca Swan, offering support means sacrificing some of their own financial stability. Though Swan said she always knew she wanted to go to college—and that her parents were supportive of the aspiration—when she first began applying to schools, they questioned how they would pay for it. Swan taught them about the FAFSA and financial aid, and said she received enough scholarship money to attend UM with their help. At school, she said she has experienced opportunities she would not have otherwise thought possible, like traveling overseas to study abroad. She said her parents have had to manage money carefully, down to the timing of grocery trips, to make it work. However, not all students have had this backing. Christopher Salomon, who graduated last spring, paid his way at UM by working as a manager at the Hilton Bentley Miami in South Beach. Balancing a full course load with a full-time job, he said, took a toll on his mental health. Finding a community of friends on campus to support him through this time was essential. Since he started college in his mid-20s, Salomon said some peers initially couldn’t relate to him as an older student. However, they later turned to him as a mentor and resource who could offer valuable advice on matters like interview prep. Formerly homeless for almost a year, a driving force behind Solomon’s work ethic was his unwillingness to return to the situation from which he came. “I had to scratch to survive, to take my pennies and do whatever I could to make sure that I didn’t go through that struggle again,” he said. While many students may not share this particular experience with Solomon, according to Harriell, socioeconomic factors, as well as factors like race, ethnicity and identity, can often present additional hurdles for first-generation students. “There’s so much intersection,” she said, “between being first-gen and [those other things].” For many students whose families didn’t attend college, especially those from low-income communities, filling out an application itself is a huge step. Maya Suggs, who worked at Shea High School in Rhode Island last year as an employee of AmeriCorps’ College Advising Corps, said looking past the pandemic to see a future where a college education is beneficial was tough for her students. More than 70% of whom would be first-generation. As Suggs tried to advise students on colleges and careers, she said, many were dealing with issues like living out of cars, working to support parents or raising children of their own. These situations, she said, play out in inner cities and low-income communities across the United States and were exacerbated by COVID-19, as family members lost jobs and lives. For undocumented students, she said, the stakes are even higher; one mistake filling out paperwork could lead to a child and their family being investigated or deported. Because of matters like these, Douillon said, first-gens are “some of the most resilient and innovative students you will ever meet.”
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FIRST-GEN ‘CANES “Empower Me First offers resources for first-gen students like advising and tutoring, as well as special programs and events,” said Douillon. One in particular which Michel, Swan and Douillon have all taken part in is a mentor match-up that pairs individual students with faculty members, many of whom were first-generation students themselves.
Paul Douillon
Cassandra Michel
Annette Rizo
Christopher Salomon
“I think a reason we’re so resilient and powerful and strong,” he said, “is because we know that we’re changing the trajectory of our entire families.” To first-generation students, and to all members of the UM community, the students all voiced a common message: You’re not alone. “You belong,” said Michel, “and there are resources here for you.”
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Put a modern, more-relaxed-and-less-death-defying twist on tight rope walking and what do you get? Slacklining. If you’ve never heard of this urban sport, you aren’t alone. It’s a relatively new activity designed to get your feet—literally—off the ground. words_andrea valdes-sueiras. design_lauren maingot. photo_julia dimarco.
T
his daring sport has gained some its recognition from becoming a viral sensation. The New York Times recently highlighted slackline superstar Breannah Yeh, who came across the sport at age 13. Her internet fame escalated after a TikTok video of her slacklining antics on the beach by a California pier went viral. That video now has more than 8 million likes, and Yeh’s TikTok platform has evolved into a library of humorous content that educates her followers about all the sport has to offer. Slacklinging is much like tight rope walking, in the way that a person attempts to balance while crossing a teeny tiny material hovered aboveground. The major difference, though, is the amount of tension and type of material used. Slacklines are tensioned
Local slackliner Tomas Gual calls Miami “the Mecca of parklining.” According to slacktivity. com, the first trick many beginners learn is literally called the “butt bounce.” Perhaps unsurprisingly, the trick involves standing on the line then dropping to one’s booty to bounce on the line.
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significantly less than tightropes, so the walker can bounce as they balance and even practice special tricks. Two of slacklining’s largest disciplines are “tricklining” or “parklining,” where participants perform spins and jumps. There’s also “highlining,” where athletes traverse lines suspended high above the ground or water. The sport can be practiced pretty much anywhere, according to Trey Knight, assistant director at UM’s new Outdoor Adventures Center in Lakeside Village. Much like the line itself flexes as you walk on it, Knight said, the sport can also flex to fit any skill level. Some slackers set their lines up just a few feet off the ground, while others run the narrow
nylon across rivers and canyons and everything between. “The longer the line is, the more it’s going to sag, no matter how tight you have it,” Knight said, “and if you fall closer to the base, it’s a harder fall.” How much risk to take, he said, depends on your experience level and confidence. Tomas Gual, a local slackliner who works as a freelance photographer and videographer, said he picked up the sport, as many enthusiasts do, through rock climbing in 2012. This is a common starting point for most slackliners, he said, because slacklining was born out of the climbing community in the 1980s. According to Gual, it was something climbers did at the base of their conquests. Gual said he has traveled more than 500 miles for slacklining opportunities and events, venturing from the East coast to the Northwest just to walk that line. “I just went highlining last week in North Carolina for three days,” he said, describing how his crew laced up a line over a waterfall and used special protective equipment to stay safe. This was only the second time Gual had ever highlined. The first, he said, was at a three-day festival of self-discovery called “BREATH” in Indiana.
But one of the best places to throw up a line, said Gual, is right here in The 305. Besides the obvious benefits of Miami’s green spaces and sunny beaches, the trees are key. Palm trees in locales like Coconut Grove, Miami Beach and Key Biscayne are easy to rig lines off of, and slacklining over the water gives enthusiasts a fun challenge. Gual, like many local enthusiasts, is a member of South Florida Slackliners, a Miami-based club that meets biweekly at South Pointe Park in Miami Beach to rig up lines, do some yoga and have a good time. Another local ‘liner, Rodolfo Rojas, channels his love for outdoor sports into environmental initiatives. Rojas is the athletic director for SENDIT4THESEA, a volunteer organization led largely by local college students that focuses on city clean ups and environmental education. Through his work coordinating outreach events, he encourages students to be mindful of both their own wellness and that of the environment. “We tie sports into our program,” he said, “because we believe that without respect for nature and the impact we make, there wouldn’t be a future in what we love.” With the recent “Code Red for Humanity” reports from the United Nations, Rojas’ mission is more relevant than ever. In the last two years, he and his SENDIT4THESEA crew have removed more than 33,000 pounds of trash from local beaches. Rojas’ said his personal mantra, “passion feeds progress,” has taken his slacklining career to new places, on and off the line.
After slacklining for six years, Rojas started manufacturing his own gear under the label Reactive Reflex. The equipment, he said, is “ideal for beginners” and includes a ratchet and tree pads for rigging up lines. For those looking to give slacklining a try, Knight said the Outdoor Adventures facility on campus will host parklining clinics this spring, where anyone can try their hand (or is it foot?) at slacklining. According to a poll of UM students on Distraction’s Instagram, 76% of respondents have never tried the sport, though 45% said they’d be willing to give it a go. So don’t be shy—whether it’s for relaxation, exercise, or just for the hell of it, the sky is literally the limit for beginners ready to walk the line.
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OFF THE CHARTS In 2021, most colllege students are not strangers to unconventionality. But in an industry where pushing the envelope is the standard, how do musical artists continue to break barriers? From launching a singing career through TikTok to making Black queer masculinity mainstream, these artists have shown us what it means to take risks. words_scarlett diaz. design & illustration_maria emilia becerra.
KANYE WEST Predicting Ye’s next career move is like trying to figure out what tomorrow’s weather in Miami will be. And aside from spontaneity, West is known for spectacle. Listening parties for his latest album, “DONDA,” named in honor of his late mother, drew the attention of millions of fans—some in the Mercedes-Benz stadium audiences and some livestream viewers. That performance included all kinds of crazy displays. West lit himself on fire, emerged from a recreation of his childhood home, brought out his ex-wife Kim Kardashian in wedding dress and invited two artists fresh off of abuse allegations and homophobic comments onstage. Not to mention that He reportedly paid millions of dollars to stay
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in a small room resembling a jail cell in the bottom of the stadium while writing the album—all part of his creative process. “DONDA” is perhaps West’s answer to crossing his own boundaries. Over the past 17 years, Kanye has done everything from launching a sneaker line to marrying a Kardashian to running for President. But Ye’s spectacles didn’t end there; in fact, it seems like they’re just getting started.
OLIVIA RODRIGO Olivia Rodrigo’s fanbase ranges from melodramatic teenagers to millennials and everything in between. The “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” star has made nostalgia her brand, with music videos featuring Y2K memorabilia and parodies of
90s/00s classic teen movies. Earlier this fall, Rodrigo made headlines for giving Taylor Swift and Hayley Williams songwriting credits on some of her biggest hits, giving up millions in royalties. “[Artists] learn from each other and take inspiration from each other,” said Julia Barger, a UM senior and campus representative for °1824, a subset of Universal Records. “So many people write songs for each other and other people will perform it, and so it’s a very cool thing what Olivia Rodrigo did.” The path from Disney star to musician is certainly well-paved (hi, Miley), but Olivia swapped the bubblegum pop for edgy tracks and three MTV Music Video Awards. Good 4 her.
TAYLOR SWIFT After a heated battle and media frenzy regarding the rights of her first six masters, Swift decided to re-record her entire catalogue in protest. She announced she would do so in 2019, and in April 2021, “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” dropped. The rerecording of “Fearless,” which was her second LP from 2008, included new but slightly different songs from the original album plus unreleased songs from “the vault.” Swifties went crazy. But so did the rest of us who were sent back in time to our elementary-school selves when we heard songs like “Love Story” and “You Belong With Me” again. A re-recording of “Red,” her third studio album, is set to arrive in November 2021. “Well, I do sleep well at night knowing that I’m right,” she told Vanity Fair in 2020, “and knowing that in 10 years it will have been a good thing that I spoke about artists’ rights to their art, and that we bring up conversations like: ‘Should record deals maybe be for a shorter term, or how are we really helping artists if we’re not giving them the first right of refusal to purchase their work if they want to?”
LIL NAS X Lil Nas X is no stranger to shock factor. Earlier this year, his music video for
“MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)” sparked major controversy when Nas’ slid into a depiction of Hell and gave Satan a lap dance. Following the video, he released a pair of sneakers called “Satan Shoes” which allegedly included a drop of human blood. Priced at $1,018 a pop, 665 out of the 666 shoes sold out online before Nike secured a restraining order on the sales for copyright infringement. This megastar, who rose to fame with his first hit “Old Town Road,” never shies away from a creative challenge. In his latest music video, “Industry Baby,” Lil Nas and Jack Harlow break out of a prison in “Shawshank Redemption” style between naked shower scenes. Featuring a predominantly Black cast, the video is also a commentary on the United States prison system.
best with their songs.” “There’s two ways you can do this,” said Alessia Cusamano, a recent UM Alum and current A+R Assistant at Universal Music Publishing. “You’re either TikTok famous and you release music and it goes viral because you already have a platform, or you blow up because of music,” she said. Barlow successfully blurred the line between TikToker and musician—something many content creators have been criticized for even attempting. Eight months after posting snippets of her original songs for the fictional “Bridgerton” musical, the concept album composed of full-length versions of the songs on her account, hit number one on the Apple Music pop album chart the day it was released.
ABIGAIL BARLOW TikTok put musical talent Abigail Barlow in the Internet’s spotlight. The 22-year-old singer/songwriter grew a loyal following on the app after posting a series of videos of herself crooning lyrics inspired by the steamy Netflix series “Bridgerton.” Barger, the UM senior, said that TikTok has reshaped the way artists and labels approach branding. The app is so interactive, she said, that “one of the first things we go to when figuring out how to market an artist is how can we make different TikToks that go
Musical artists from left to right: Kanye West, Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, Lil Nas X and Abigail Barlow.
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Whether you’re the type of college kid that calls your mom at every inconvenience or one that sticks to a few texts per week, the relationship between parents and their kinda-adult-but-kinda-not college kid is arguably the most complex one in life. Setting boundaries can be a tough conversation. And maybe one you avoid all together. words_ainsley vetter. design_maria emilia becerra.
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s students become legal adults, they may come to ask themselves certain questions about their relationship with their parents. How often is too often to talk to them? How much of last weekend do I leave out when they do call? Can they tell me who to be friends with? Should they be able to see my finances? Giving them too much control can lead to your dependence, immaturity and laziness. But completely shutting them out may result in resentment and animosity. Aaron Heller, a clinical psychologist and director of the cognitive and behavioral neuroscience division at the University of Miami, said there is no one-size-fits-all
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approach to how students should go about setting boundaries with their parents. But factors to consider include personality types, family dynamics and comfort level. Obviously, some students will have an easier time having this conversation than others. Heller recommends students think through the specific goals of their parental relationship and what sort of boundaries may or may not “feel right.” But everyone is going to have a different approach, he said, because students are at varying maturity levels and family dynamics. Setting them up isn’t necessarily easy, Heller said, and there is always a chance that conversations end poorly. In these cases, Heller suggested finding support in the
college student community. “Talk to people in your community to get a sense of what they’re going through,” he said. “I think it’s easy to feel alone in this developmental period.” Knowing that other students are going through similar situations can provide a sense of solace, support and insight into how to handle these situations. Natalie Lewis, a University of Miami sophomore double majoring in Judiac studies and international studies, said that while she tells her parents almost everything, she does not feel guilty for sparing some details. “I think every kid hides at least some things from their parents,” she said. “I don’t think that my parents were absolute perfect children when they were my age either.” Laura Curren Adams, a doctoral intern at UM’s counseling center, said that even though it might not be fun, setting clear and respected boundaries with parents can actually improve the relationship. “The
psychological impact of setting boundaries with parents can be fear, especially when approaching a difficult conversation, because you feel you should honor what your parents want, even if it conflicts with your own desires,” she said. “You may consider why your parents’ action undermined your goal and what value does this show that you are holding for yourself. Communicating the value behind the boundary may be helpful, so that parents understand why it is so important for you to maintain this line.” Geraldine Osorio, a UM senior majoring in entrepreneurship, said she thinks it’s important to set boundaries with parents to have a healthy relationship. “I feel like the ones I have set up within my daily life satisfy my needs and comfort expectations,” she said, “Communication is definitely important and it’s the first step to having those boundaries remain intact in a healthy way.”
In a poll on Distraction’s Instagram, 29% of respondents said they talk to their parents every day, compared to 62% who said they talk to their parents either several times per week or about once per week. As for things students say they never tell their parents, Distraction got responses ranging from “the details of my romantic life” to “I host insane sex parties” to “I literally tell them everything.” After following someone else’s rules for years, it’s not always easy to flip the switch and get your family to start respecting your boundaries. But finding common ground can set the tone for the future of the relationship and prevent tension or conflict.
When setting boundaries with your parents, Adams suggests trying the “DEARMAN” method: Describe: When describing what you want, it’s important to use clear and concrete terms. Express: Clearly express your feelings and what causes them. Assert: Say what needs to be said without apologies or asking for permission. Reinforce: Reward those who respond well to your desire, which can be as basic as saying “thank you.” Mindful: Focus on what you want and don’t get sidetracked or distracted by other details. Appear: You appear confident through your body language, so make sure to stand tall, keep eye contact and control your tone of voice. Negotiate: Listen to what the other person has to say and find common ground.
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What a relief it is to say that, thanks to global accessibility of COVID-19 vaccines, travelling is no longer a far-off fairytale dream. The restrictions that have left many homebound for almost two years are finally easing. So while travel surely looks and feels different these days, it’s still possible. If you navigate it the right way, you can seek adventure and stay safe. words_ ainsley vetter. design_chantal chalita.
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he pandemic isn’t over. But there are still many opportunities out there for travelers, whether they want to finally go on that cancelled destination vacation from 2020 or just have a local weekend getaway in mind. While factors like price and itineraries are always important, the biggest things for venturers to keep in mind right now are the travel restrictions of their destination. Especially if it’s an international one. For vaccinated travelers this process is often smoother, though some countries are still restricting tourism for everyone. One resource to get this information is the U.S. Department of State website, which maps out the COVID-19 rules in every country. The CDC has something similar on their website, too. They also rank each country into five COVID-19 risk categories: very high, high, moderate, low and unknown. Most countries do require visitors to be vaccinated, and even though it is not required for domestic travel here in the United States, the CDC encourages unvaccinated individuals to avoid traveling in general. International travelers should also note that as of the publication of this article, anyone entering back into the United States, regardless of vaccination status, must show a negative COVID test or proof of recovery. No matter where you go, you’ll almost definitely need a mask to get there. Most airlines still require face coverings during the duration of your flight and while waiting in their airport terminals. Hannah Hassouni, a University of Miami junior, said that she and her mother waited almost two years to take their annual summer trip to Los Angeles. Hassouni said she was a little nervous to travel, but felt more comfortable when she saw other people being cautious as well. “We finally got to go this past August and it was amazing,” she said. Unfortunately, not all travelers felt as comfortable with their experiences, especially early on. David Steinberg, UM’s director of debate and an associate professor of professional practice, said he has taken multiple trips since COVID-19. His first, like many travelers last year, was a road trip. “When we went into Turnpike stops,” he said, “people were on their best behavior; wearing masks, keeping distance. We felt pretty safe.” However, Steinberg said it was a different experience when he got off the interstate and went across northwest Florida. “It was frightening and it did not feel safe,” he continued. Steinberg said too many maskless people, a lack of outdoor dining options and an unclean environment urged him to go back home. While Steinberg continued to travel after this trip, he said he urged travelers to get vaccinated and keep safety in mind for the sake of himself and others. Besides following local COVID-19 mandates and restrictions, booking reservations have also recently been a
challenge for some travelers. “Many restaurants closed,” said Krissane Vigliotti, a travel agent specializing in Disney destinations. “The restaurants that were open were so short staffed that it was really hard to get reservations for clients.” Still, travelers have many more opportunities now than they had at this time last year. For example, study abroad programs, which were paused at UM from March 2020 until this semester, are back on. Meaghan Wheeler, a senior majoring in biomedical engineering, is currently taking classes in Vienna. Despite the continuing pandemic, she said that COVID-19 hasn’t really affected her experience, and that being in Austria has been a “dream come true.” But Wheeler said she does wear a mask in public and always carries her vaccine card, as per the rules of Vienna. Wheeler said restaurants and retail stores require proof of vaccination, and most buildings require masks. She said she’s been able to visit other places outside the city during her program, as well. “Austria also allows me to travel freely to other countries since I’m vaccinated.” Outside of COVID regulations, there’s still the regular ‘travel stuff ’ to be mindful of. Plane tickets, according to Vigliotti, are typically cheaper when booked online and about six months in advance. She also recommends printing out paper copies of itineraries and tickets rather than relying on having it on your phone, just in case. Traveling during COVID-19, she said, is all about patience. Wheeler, for example, took the extra step of buying travel insurance for her trip. This service, though an extra expense, is offered by airlines and tourism agencies to help travelers recoup their losses if a trip is cancelled. It’s something that, outside of a pandemic, many people might see as overboard. But not anymore. Traveling today is a different in the way that it requires more planning, thought and precautions. But those willing to put in the extra energy will be rewarded with memories to last a lifetime.
According to Forbes, many destinations have been making significant efforts to bring tourism back after lockdown, “from Sicily, which announced plans to subsidize trips with discounted travel, to Cyprus, which was offering a free vacation if you got diagnosed with COVID-19 while you were there.”
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56 DISTRACTION Fashion
FASHION The Fashion section serves up cultural and societal insight into the significance of today’s style trends. Here you can learn about the trend of digital outfits, find the perfect fall color to sport this season and curate a wardrobe that will never go out of style.
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Paradise pack your basket
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Throw on your freshest threads, grab your favorite beach blanket and pack your picnic basket. This season is all about lounging and slaying subtly. After a year and a half spent inside, fresh air is in fashion. Paradise is kicking it back and showcasing light styles and breezy ‘fits. Flowy dresses, neutral colors and understated patterns are all on our fall shopping list. Plus wine, cheese and locallygrown fruit, of course. So grab some friends and join us in Paradise—midterms can wait. words_staff. photo_teagan polizzi. design _keagan larkins. models_lily darwin, dylan wacksman, jordan julien, olga pilichowska & devon anderson.
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Unwind Is it just us or has soft makeup been all the rage lately? While we love bold eyeshadows and sharp contours, sometimes a natural look is the way to go. To achieve this dewy glow, go for light blush, peachy lips and just a touch of mascara.
A Touch of Tangerine Vibrant flowers pop against pure white, but if you’re not planning on walking around with a bouquet, there’s plenty of other ways to add a touch of color to your neutral outfits. Playful jewelry, bags and accessories pair beautifully with minimalist attire.
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Linen Laundry The era of TikTok-trendy sweatsuits-turned-streetwear may be coming to an end, but comfort is still in style. We’re rocking lightweight fabrics that wouldn’t be out of place on a tropical vacation, at a beach picnic or in your afternoon class.
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Plenty to Share Throwing a picnic can be hard if you don’t have anyone to kick back with. We suggest packing a basket for two and savoring a sweet and cheap date, or snagging a big blanket, a few bottles of wine and enough Gouda for a group of friends.
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Clean and Crisp It may be fall, but in Miami, it’s always the perfect weather for shorts, sand and sundresses. This season, we love lightcolored, textured fabrics with just the right amount of flow. For accessories, dainty jewelry is a nice go-to, and a stylish pair of sunnies is always perfect for the beach. To complete the look, consider wicker-inspired accessories and handbags.
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What’s Your Fall Color? If you’re looking for the perfect color to add to your palette this season, look no further! Take this quiz to find out which shade best suits your style.
Which drink do you prefer?
Cinnamon Sugar
Costume Shopping
Go-to Halloween costume Space Cowgirl
Pumpkin Spice
Tailgating
What’s your favorite fall activity? Pumpkin Carving
Ghost
words_staff. design_lindsay jayne.
Which would you wear?
Which type of jewelry do you prefer?
Chunky
Crewneck
Dainty
Olivia Rodrigo
Hoodie
The Which movie Conjuring is your favorite?
Which artist is on your fall playlist?
Halloweentown Drake Favorite fall treat
Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin Pie
Neutrals Current fall go-to shoe?
Loafers
Which do you prefer to wear? Bolds
Cowboy Boots
Pale Rosette
Mykonos Blue
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Soybean
Olive Branch
Fire Whirl
THE
E FUTUR
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Picture this: You upload a picture to your Instagram rocking a bold top that leaves your comment section blowing up. But you don’t actually own this top. In fact, it doesn’t even exist. It was created digitally. This may just be the future of fashion, and Instagram for that matter. words_paula santi jost. design_isa marquez.
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any influencers would admit they only buy outfits so they can take cute photos in them for their feeds. And these days, even non-influencers get less use out of outfits as trends change like the wind. After all, why take up closet space when you can have a look superimposed onto your body instead? With the ambitious goal of allowing content creators to make the most of their online presence while being environmentally friendly, digital outfits are starting to disrupt the fashion industry. With a growing awareness about the harms of fast fashion, buyers are considering the environmental value of digital alternatives. “The textile waste generated in the fashion supply chain is difficult to calculate, as most companies don’t record the quantities of waste they generate for fear of being reprimanded for it,” said sustainability and fashion technology writer Brooke RobertsIslam in an article for Eco-Age. With so much fabric scrapped, a digitalized wardrobe is the eco-friendly alternative to anything physical, especially for those who only plan to show the outfits on social media or be seen in physical outfits once. Here’s how it works: Independent designers or brands partner with participating platforms like DressX, who have a team of online tailors that edit the outfits onto the photo. Then the edited photo is sent back, ready to post. “AR clothing,” as Vogue calls it, “refers to the ability for three-dimensional digital clothing to automatically appear on a person as they move in real time.” According to Elle, Scandinavian denim retailer Carlings launched the first digital clothing collection in November of 2018 with the goal of raising awareness of the harmful effects of fast fashion. When purchases were made from the 19-piece Neo-Ex collection, Carlings relied on photo editing to custom-fit the piece to each buyer.
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The price of digital outfits can vary widely, usually ranging between $25 and $250. Right now, the primary consumer base is luxury customers, who are intrigued by the concept and open to trying something new. Influencers are also joining in the trend, as they struggle to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive digital space where posting the same outfit twice is a no-no. Digital influencer Eugenia Gechidjian says that even though she likes the trend, followers will not be seeing it on her Instagram feed. “Photoshopping the outfit is creating a false identity of who you are to others,” she said. “For example, I can’t afford Gucci or Louis Vuitton head to toe. Photoshopping those garments will make it seem like I do, basically catfishing your followers that look up to you.” Gechidjian also said she believes the trend will not be effective. “I think that in a world where being an influencer is a job, the goal is to be truthfully yourself,” she said. “That way, you’re more relatable. Your followers become your friends and not your fans.” If you want to try your own digital outfits, you’re not alone. Alexander Heria, a graphic design professor at the University of Miami, said finding out about the trend has made him “want to be all dandy in my own prêt-àporte digital night-out-outfit!” While the exact way each brand creates their outfits may be a trade secret, Heria said he thinks they are created using a combination of 3-D and Photoshop software. Some areas of the industry still may not be ready for virtual fashion, especially as the relatively new software is still being developed and perfected. Gabriela Rodriguez, a senior at UM, majoring in industrial engineering, said that while the technology is impressive, she thinks the trend was born from the negative aspects of social media culture. “It’s all because of how social media is nowadays,” she said. “People just want to show off in pictures.” While the idea of creating digital outfits isn’t embraced by all, it may be here to stay. And if you think you haven’t seen it on your feed, think again. Fashion designer Carolina Herrera made one of her runway looks available as a digital outfit in September, and more brands are set to follow suit. So before getting outfit envy the next time you’re scrolling, stop to ask yourself: Is my jealousy directed at a cute top or an intangible cluster of pixels?
In 2018, a Scandinavian fashion retailer called Carlings launched its first website. But this was not just any online retailer. According to CNBC, Carlings offered digital-only purchases where a customer could send a photo to the company after purchasing an item. Later, the customer would receive an edit of themselves in that item. This was a game-changer for many influencers.
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“The span of a trend is getting shorter. You can see what’s happening across the world in the palm of your hand,” said University of Miami professor and costume designer Michiko Kitayama Skinner. “Capsule culture looks at sustainability, which is great because wardrobe is one of the worst pollutants.”
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Toss the trendy Shein sh*t that lasts you a season. Instead, consider investing in higher-quality closet staples that stand the test of time, mix-n-match with ease and always look classy. With a capsule wardrobe, you can embrace minimalism without sacrificing style. Here’s how to curate your own. words_greir calagione. photo_sydney burnett. design_lindsay jayne. models_zack peters & stephanie revuelta.
Designing your color palette
1
The first step in creating a capsule wardrobe is designing a color palette for your closet. To build a palette, start with a base color: navy, black or white. It might help to go off of which one you already have the most of, or which you want to wear more of in the future.
2
Now that you have your base, build the palette with more neutrals. Choose two or three of these colors: beige, brown, gray, olive, blush (or the other two colors you didn’t choose as a base).
3
Now, pick an accent color. It could be your favorite non-neutral color or one that compliments you most. Maybe blue matches your eyes, or you’ve been told red looks great on you. Just make sure it stands out from the neutrals you’ve already built.
Choosing pieces Tops
4
A fun way to experiment with your tops while still staying within your palette is mixing up necklines, cuts and materials. Make sure you have a variety. For example, a black silk button-up could be dressed down by pairing it with sneakers, or up by pairing it with gold jewelry and heels. Make sure to have several different types of tops in each color.
Bottoms
“As a student, having a closet consist of basic pieces is important to me because I never want to spend too much time picking out outfits, but I still want to look put together,” said sophomore biology major Asha Sharma.
5
Choosing your bottoms will depend more on your lifestyle than tops do. Denim and loungewear may be most appropriate for college students, while those who spend more time in a professional environment may want to look more at slacks and skirts. Keeping bottoms light and basic is important for a capsule wardrobe. But it never hurts to have a pair of statement pants in an accent color and a fun fabric like leather.
Accessorizing Shoes
6
Keeping shoes within the color palette you have designed is important so that they can easily go with and dress up or down any outfit. A few pairs of accent shoes can elevate a capsule wardrobe, too.
Jackets/Outerwear
7
A jean jacket is a must for a capsule wardrobe. But stay away from ones with extra decals and designs that make it too trendy—it won’t last. A brown leather jacket or a black bomber are more options that can add some flare to a neutral look.
Bags and Jewelry
8
Bags, hats, glasses and jewelry can literally change the entire vibe of your lo ok. Wearing a plain black crop top, jeans and sneakers will work just fine in class. But adding gold jewelry, a matching handbag and boots will carry the look into the night for happy hour, too.
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70 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
HEALTH & WELLNESS Do you roll your eyes at the oversaturation of cheesy Instagram stories? Have you always wanted to step in the weight room but don’t know where to start? Did you know there’s a legal cannabinoid sold on smoke shop shelves? Check out Health & Wellness to explore these questions and more.
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Don’t worry, be happy! Yeah, STFU. The notion that thinking positively can solve your problems and bury your worries just isn’t true. Though optimism can be helpful, constant messaging to “just be happy” can actually invalidate real emotions and perpetuate an idea that mental health struggles are abnormal. There’s a name for the overly cheesy, clearly disingenuous and super cringeworthy inspo quotes plastered on social media feeds—toxic positivity. words_ natalie santos. design_ keagan larkins.
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C
utesy Instagram graphics with phrases like “you’ll make it through this” and “everything will be okay,” are examples of toxic positivity. This phenomenon, according to Healthline, is the belief that no matter how difficult a situation or feeling is, people should maintain a positive mindset. Angelica Gonzalez, a licensed mental health therapist in Coral Gables, said that the issue is not positivity itself, but the fact that these common tropes can invalidate “other people’s feelings, hardships and traumas.” Gonzalez said throwing out happy, “cookie cutter” phrases as a response to expressions of negative emotions can cause the affected person to feel frustrated, unseen and unheard. These positive blanket statements, she explained, can actually show how some people don’t understand how to properly validate the feelings of others. Attempting to gloss over someone else’s hardships with a cutesy text, she continued, says a lot more about the person doing the glossing than the individual who is feeling down. “Sometimes people make it seem like it’s easy to be positive,” said Gabriela Chin, a senior biology major at the University of Miami, “when for some people it’s really hard, whether it be because of metal health issues or just something going on in their lives.” College students in particular, she said, may feel this pressure to constantly be positive despite the draining demands of schoolwork and other stressors. “People put expectations on us or expect us to always be positive since we are young and should ‘be grateful,’” she said. “These people don’t know how stressful and draining university work is.” “When I think of somebody being dismissive or gaslighting,” said Gonzalez, “it’s really that they don’t understand what validation is, which is just being able to sit with somebody and say ‘I understand how you’re feeling,’ or ‘it must be so hard that you’re feeling this way.’” During the pandemic specifically, Gonzalez said, anxiety reached an all-time high in college students, and many weren’t able to successfully validate those anxious thoughts and feelings. “It’s really important for college students to address these emotions,” she continued, “because if not, it’s just sitting underneath the surface and eventually will explode into something else, whether that be binge drinking or maybe a situation where everyone is under the impression that you’re fine, but really you’re alone in your apartment, completely freaking out.” Paola Quijano, a senior majoring in motion pictures, said she has questioned the validity of her own feelings as a result of toxic positivity. “When I would be feeling sad,” she said, “I felt like the reasons weren’t good enough to be sad or they weren’t valid. I would feel guilty about my sadness, and
instead of trying to understand and resolve it, I was constantly trying to push it away.” Quijano said this problem did not get better until she began therapy and learned to face her emotions and validate how she was feeling. “Unless you work through it, it’s always going to be there beneath the surface,” she said. “I think healthy positivity validates how you’re feeling, and feels more constructive and helpful. With toxic positivity, it mostly just sounds like a cheesy ‘get well soon’ card.” But negative feelings don’t have to last forever, either. There are healthy ways to improve mental health and bring about real happy emotions that don’t need to be edited for Insta. Both Quijano and Chin said that getting out of their old routines, exercising and engaging in neglected hobbies helped them deal with negative emotions. Gonzalez said one exercise professionals like her utilize for clients is the “1, 2, 3, 4 method,” which focuses on deep breathing for relaxation. “You simply count inward for four seconds, hold it for a second and breathe outward for four seconds,” she explained. “Doing that a couple of times will get your nervous system to calm down.” Sometimes it’s difficult, Gonzalez said, to differentiate between solid advice and toxic positivity. However, she said the priority is to ensure people feel heard, validated and equipped with the tools to handle whatever their hardships may be. So say goodbye to those ‘one-size-fits-all’ phrases and hello to empathy and healthy habits.
Scrolling down your Pinterest feed, you’ll surely come across seemingly meaningful quotes nestled inside of an aesthetically pleasing graphic. While these posts may look cool on your “positivity” board, is that “just breathe” graphic really helping you just breathe?
Healthy ways to deal with negative emotions: Blowing Bubbles This seems silly. But blowing bubbles activates your diaphragmatic breathing (AKA deep breathing), which is an effective way to quickly calm down your nervous system.
Exercise Not everyone enjoys breaking a sweat. But simply moving your body for 30 minutes each day, whether it be walking your dog outside or practicing a simple yoga routine on your balcony, releases endorphins. And as Elle Woods once said, “endorphins make you happy.”
Journaling Journaling activates both the left and right hemispheres of the brain. By bringing your thoughts onto paper, processing your negative emotions becomes more objective and easier to do. Plus, in the months and years to come, you’ll be able to look back on what you were feeling at a formative time in life.
Return to Yourself What are some hobbies you used to love but forgot about or haven’t had time for recently? Rollerblading? Painting? Gymnastics? Remember the things that used to bring you the most joy and give yourself a space to enjoy them again.
Find a Friend Make sure this friend is one who has the capacity to validate your feelings first. Validation and open conversation with a loved one can help you understand that you’re not alone in your experience.
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GYMTIMIDATION Between the frat guys with big muscles in tiny tank tops and the confusing machinery crowded with people, gyms can be intimidating. Everyone seems to know exactly what they’re doing, and it feels like the whole gym is judging you. But the truth is, most people are too focused on their own workout and whatever song is blasting through their headphones to notice or care. So even if you lack experience, don’t be afraid to step out on the weight floor. words_camila munera. photo_ daniella pinzon. design_emy deeter.
If you want to start lifting, it’s important to just start somewhere, said Devarsh Desai, a senior trainer at the Wellness Center majoring in biochemistry and health science. “Never be afraid to accept that you don’t know what you’re doing, even some personal trainers don’t know what they are doing, and that’s okay,” he said. Resistance training exercises like weightlifting are an important component of fitness. They can build muscle, improve metabolism and benefit your muscular, skeletal and nervous system. For newbies looking to get started, Desai suggests learning classic movements like squats, lunges and shoulder presses. Watching workout videos and content online from reliable sources (we recommend locals @fitfoodieliving and and @andrespreschel) is one step new enthusiasts can try before hitting the weights. When you’re feeling confident enough to hit the weight room but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered. Give these basic exercises a try, starting with low weight and increasing resistance as your form improves. Make sure to do the most difficult movements, like deadlifts and squats, early in your workout.
DEADLIFTS These are often done on deadlift platforms, but you can also learn variations with dumbbells in a pinch.
1. It’s OK to start with very low weight here. 2. You don’t want to mess up your lower back with the
deadlift, so make sure your back is flat-many lifters buy a special weightlifting belt to wear around their midsection during this movement. 3. Place your feet shoulder-width apart. 4. Hinge at the hips, bending your knees slightly. 5. Grab the bar, placing your hands outside your knees. 6. Bring the weight with you as you stand up, keeping the knees slightly bent. 7. Bring the weight back down, hinging at the hips and keeping the back flat.
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BICEP CURLS Use dumbells to do this workout.
1. Hold the dumbbells so that the
palms face forward, keeping your elbows tucked at your side. 2. With your elbows still tucked, raise both dumbbells (or alternate arms) to your shoulders by bending your elbows. 3. Slowly lower the dumbbells back down and repeat.
FORWARD LUNGES Use a barbell for this exercise.
1. Rest the bar between your
shoulder blades. This exercise can also be done with one dumbbell in each hand, with ankle weights or weight-free. 2. Take a long step forward with one foot and bend your front knee until your back knee is a several inches off the ground. Be careful that the top of your knee doesn’t cross your toes. 3. You should be on the ball of your back foot at this point. Push through both feet to raise yourself back to standing, then take a long step with your back foot and repeat the motion on the other side.
TRICEP PULLDOWNS
SQUATS
Use a universal cable machine for this exercise.
One of the most versatile lower body exercises, these can be done in a front or back squat rack or just with your bodyweight.
1. Start by standing at the base of
the cable machine and take one step backwards to find your starting point. 2. Grab the rope handles with palms facing each other. Pull the rope down so your elbows are tucked on either side of your waist and your forearms are parallel to the floor. 3. Make sure to keep your elbows pinned at your sides as you straighten your arms downward. 4. Slowly bend your elbows to bring your hands back to the starting position in step two with your forearms parallel to the floor.
1. In a back squat rack, stand in the middle
of the barbell with the bar resting comfortably across the tops of your shoulders. 2. Lift the bar off the rack, making sure your toes are pointing forward. 3. Using the mirror, angle your feet slightly outward. Then take a deep breath in, brace your core and imagine that there’s a chair behind you that you’re trying to sit on. Think about sending your hips backwards first. Your knees will naturally follow; you don’t want to focus on them, though. 4. Plant your feet firmly on the ground and keep going down until you reach a comfortable depth. Normally, it’s a little below the knee line. 5. Think about pushing the soles of your feet through the ground to bring your body back up, exhaling on the way.
SHOULDER PRESS You can do this exercise standing or seated with dumbbells or in a dedicated shoulder press rack.
1. While bracing your core, arch your back to stabilize your shoulders.
2. Hold dumbbells with bent elbows to make a 90 degree angle with your shoulders, palms facing the mirror.
3. Press the weights up while exhaling. 4. Inhale as you bring the weight back down to the neutral 90 degree position.
Fall 2021 DISTRACTION 75
college, cocktails & curves
At a school where many students spend weekends tailgating, hanging out on boats or hitting up pool parties all while posting every moment it, the pressure to look perfect can be pretty intense. For some, the desire to have an uber-Instagrammable bikini body at all times can be too much, and lead to the development of a dangerous eating disorder. For others, unhealthy habits aren’t necessarily the result of body image issues, but of a desire to skip meals to get drunk faster and cheaper. Whichever way you slice it (or pour it), students at UM are prone to developing risky relationships with food, alcohol and body image. But it doesn’t have to be this way. words_gabrielle lord. photo_nailah anderson. design_keagan larkins. * The names with asterisks in this article have been changed to protect sources’ identities.
“Eating disorders tend to pop up and thrive during periods of great uncertainty and change,” said Fima. Engaging in an activity, connecting with loved ones and using temperature to change physiological states (like a cold shower) are all strategies that she recommends for coping with triggers.
76 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
“T
he girls at the University of Miami don’t eat on Saturdays. I know this for a fact,” wrote Bobby D’Angelo in an August article on Total Frat Move, a website that posts satire about Greek life at universities across the country. While this statement seems wild and insensitive, it hits a little too close to the mark when it comes to a major issue for many UM students: the scary combination of booze, body image, partying and posting. Diana Tavernise, a first-year graduate student at UM, said her struggle with food started her senior year of high school and progressively got worse at UM. “I would restrict myself to the point that if I ate one thing, I thought it was bad,” she said. “I would spiral out of control, binge and throw up. You’re in a bikini half the time, and then when you add the stress of school, it takes a bad turn on your mental health.” According to UM alumna Melissa Spann, an alumna and licensed clinician, “Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.” Complications, she said, include cardiovascular issues, weakness, fatigue, hair loss, anxiety and depression. Similarly Christine Tellez, a registered dietitian at Gatewell Therapy Center, said eating disorders can slow down metabolism. “Your body doesn’t know whether it is starving from a diet or from a famine,” she said, “and will conserve energy so that you continue to live.” Individuals who suffer from eating disordes often understand that their habits are unhealthy, but still cannot change them. Tavernise said she knew she was causing harm to her body, but she didn’t care. “I would work out and not eat, especially before a pool party,” she said. “I wanted nothing in my stomach because you’re taking pictures. It’s messed up, but I felt good about it at the time, and then I wouldn’t feel so bad about drunk eating later that night.” Another common but destructive habit among college students is restricting food before going out in order to become intoxicated more quickly. Kate*, a senior at UM, said she’s done this since her freshman year. “I’m a broke college student, so I don’t want to spend the money on drinks,” she said. “And I don’t want the additional calories either. If I don’t eat during the day and drink when I’m out, it evens out.” While drinking on an empty stomach may be effective in getting drunk faster, Tellez said it can cause harmful effects, like alcohol poisoning. “It can be helpful to remember that one night of drinking will not lead to weight gain,” she said. “College is a time where bodies are still growing and changing.” She recommends that students eat regularly throughout the day to balance blood sugar and manage cravings. “If students listen to their bodies,” she said, “they don’t need to worry about overeating.” For friends of those suffering from eating disorders, knowing how to navigate the situation can be difficult. “It was really scary watching someone you’re so close to shrivel up and change completely,” said Madison*, a senior at UM. “It’s not just a physical change, my friend turned into a completely different person.” This friend, Madison said, became angry, moody and unwilling to talk about the situation. “It’s so hard to bring up such a touchy subject because you don’t want to trigger her,” she said. Instead, Madison said she went to the parents of her friend. “We were like ‘we are either
going to help her and she’s going to be mad at us, or we are going to watch her die,’” she said. “She had a mental illness that was controlling her whole life.” Madison said that social media and the pressure to meet impossible beauty standards were very triggering to her friend. “She’d look at Instagram and TikTok and see all these beautiful girls that go here and think everyone looks that way,” she said. “Especially with pool parties, there’s a stigma that everyone here is super thin and that’s not true. There are a million different body types here, and they’re all beautiful.” In the end, Madison’s friend went to a facility that she said completely changed her life. “She learned how to cook and got into a healthy workout routine,” said Madison. “She needed that structure to keep her balanced.” Once she got out, though, it wasn’t over. Madison and her friends had to sit and talk about the language they use around their friend. “Eating disorders don’t go away immediately,” she said. “The last thing we wanted to do was trigger her.” Thaimi Fima, a licensed mental health counselor at Gatewell Therapy Center, said when helping a friend with an eating disorder, it’s important to not engage in “diet talk” or comment on bodily appearance, including ones own. “It’s very common for people to say ‘I wanna pull trig’ when they drink too much so that they feel better, but that’s not an excuse,” said Madison. “If you say things like that, it makes other people think it’s okay.” As part of her health journey, Tavernise started a fitness page on Instagram. “It’s something I always wanted to do, but I knew I wasn’t living a healthy lifestyle,” she said. While this wasn’t an immediate fix, she said it helped her stay accountable. “I never saw a therapist, I saw a nutritionist once and that helped me figure out what to eat, but I really had to figure it out myself,” she said. Since starting the account, Tavernise says she has changed her workout routine, gained a better relationship with food and rarely gets triggered anymore. “I usually lift and do like no cardio anymore,” she said, “which is insane because I would go to the gym for hours in layers of clothes to sweat as much as possible.” No matter what Instagram may have you believe, there is no “perfect body.” If you or a loved one are struggling with body image issues or disordered eating behaviors, don’t be afriad to seek professional help. “[Eating disorders] can impact a student’s ability to engage in academic and social activities, so it’s important to know how to access help if you’re even slightly concerned about your relationship to food,” Spann said.
Gatewell Therapy Center
Gatewell Therapy Center in Miami works with all eating disorders. Contact this number or visit their website if you or someone you know wants to seek help. 305-846-9370 gatewelltherapycenter.com
Fall 2021 DISTRACTION 77
DELTA-
For pot smokers across the nation, the legalization of marijuana is an exciting prospect. But while decriminalization bills stagnate in state legislatures, another so-called legal form of THC is gaining popularity. Delta-8 THC products have been popping up in smoke shops everywhere, piquing the interest of those looking to buy cannabis without breaking the law. words_catherine mcgrath. photo_teagan polizzi. design_keagan larkins.
E
xperimenters and stoners have been quick to embrace this loophole that allows for a legal high, but what exactly is Delta-8? And will its growing popularity attract the attention of lawmakers looking to criminalize the sorta-legal substance? According to Denise Vidot, an assistant professor at the University of Miami’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences, delta-8 is a form of THC found in “hemp-derived CBD” with milder effects than its illegal counterpart delta-9 (regular weed).
Pictured here are a lighter, FullSend Canna strawberry gummies ($20), and a Headband delta-8 preroll ($10). CAUTION: Follow dosage recommendations and safety warnings listed on the products.
78 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
It’s considered legal, Vidot said, because the government never officially identified it as a major cannabinoid. But this legality may soon be revoked or regulated. To produce delta-8, people working with hemp extract its THC and then “rebrand it and start selling it,” said Giovanni Sibilia, a sales associate at The U Smoke Shop located in South Miami. Delta-8 products are widely available to anyone over the age of 21, he said. “You can get gummies, cartridges, flower, moon rocks, seltzer, cereal bars, chocolate bars and prerolls,” said Sibilia. “I like to think of it as the midpoint between delta-9 and CBD.” However, explained Sibilia, delta-8 products affect everyone differently. Sibilia said, for example, that delta-8 makes him feel tired. On the other hand, a UM junior who wished to remain anonymous, described her experience as “just as high but less intense” than that of delta-9. “With delta-8, I’m just like ‘yup, I’m high as shit, but I’m having a good time.,” she said. But buyer beware: This “legal weed” may just be too good to be true. Some scientists and smoke shop retailers remain wary about the contents of the products. Since it’s a new discovery, Sibilia said, there are few
regulations on production and companies may cut corners. “They’re not making sure it’s complete delta-8,” he said. This substance can be produced naturally with expensive machines or unnaturally with chemicals, and most companies may be opting for the latter. “They are taking CBD, which is legal, and they’re basically putting chemical reactions to it to force the process of converting the CBD into delta-8,” said Vidot. In terms of regulation, she said, “the scientific community, the regulatory community, we are already meeting often trying to question this delta-8 situational legality. It’s really a matter of time before it starts getting regulated.” Does any of this matter to college students? Much like with vaping, many prefer ease over quality.” It was just convenient,” said the anonymous junior. “We didn’t need to go through anyone. We could literally just show up to The U Smoke Shop and be like, ‘Hi, I want some weed.’” As states continue to individually legalize marijuana and therefore open more dispensaries, this phenomenon may soon become a reality for all kinds of weed. But for now, delta-8 remains the only accessible form of THC in Florida smoke shops.
Are you or someone you know suffering from substance abuse? These are helpful resources. SAMHSA National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357) The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration hotline a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
UM Counseling Center After Hours Line 305-284-5511 If you (or a friend) are experiencing distress and need someone to talk with in the middle of the night or on the weekend, please call the Counseling Center’s main number, press 1 and you will be immediately connected to a licensed therapist.
Fall 2021 DISTRACTION 79
behind the scenes BUILDING A CAPSULE WARDROBE
BREAKFAST FOR DINNER
PARADISE: PACK YOUR BASKET
It was my first time fashion directing for Distraction. I enjoy coming up with different outfits and being able to express myself through the clothes that I had picked for the shoot. The minimalist style and neutral pallet we were prompted with was an exciting challenge to curate outfits with.
The teal blue booths, neon lights and bar stools made the Miami Diner the perfect place for this shoot. We ordered several different breakfast dishes to show the variety of food options and photographed the dishes in a diner setting with a model to show the breakfast dishes as well as the experience of eating at a diner at night.
The inspiration behind these photos was to take a beachy spin on the typical redand-white-gingham picnic blanket. We kept the colors very neutral so that they would match our beautiful location.
I had a great time at the shoot. The energy in the studio flowed and made time fly by on an early Saturday morning. Overall, I am really proud of the work the team did and I’m excited for UM to see it. Everyone’s hard work at the studio made the environment great to be around and got us excited for the future of fashion at Distraction. - Andrius Espinoza, Co-Fashion Director
80 DISTRACTION Introduction
We used a strobe light to create contrast in the images and to emphasis the late night vibes of this shoot. We were able to move all around the diner and experiment with different poses, backgrounds and dishes, but my favorite part was after the shoot when we all sat in a booth for waffles, milkshakes and happy hour! - Julia Dimarco, Staff Photographer
The shoot ended up being a bit of a logistical nightmare! We got rained out three times and shot the photos very shortly before deadline. We finally ended up getting a sunny morning at Crandon Park. All of the beachgoers were eyeing our delicious picnic setup. -Teagan Polizzi, Co-Photo Director
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www.distractionmagazine.com Distraction Magazine @Distractionmag @DistractionUM
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Unleash your inner creative. We want you to join our award-winnng staff. We’re always accepting writers, designers, photographers, videographers, PR pros and business-savvy sales reps. However you’d like to get in the swing of things, we have room for you. Send an email to distraction305@miami. edu for more information. Anyone is welcome to contribute!
