the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
may 2017
May 2017 DISTRACTION
1
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
may 2017
May 2017 DISTRACTION
2
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
may 2017
May 2017 DISTRACTION
3
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
may 2017
the
magazine of the students of
the university of miami
may 2017
May 2017 DISTRACTION
5
THE IBIS YEARBOOK WILL FLY TO YOU! Head to ibisyearbook.com and fill out our form with your October 2017 address. We'll ship the book to you for FREE when it comes out!
IBIS yearbook
MAY 2017
The Guide
8
HERE FOR THE BEER
Alina Zerpa
À La Arts
Fashion
24
51
YOUR BRAIN ON MUSIC
Asmae Fahmy
Tired of Natty Ice? We’ve rounded up the best craft beer spots in Miami.
Maybe you shouldn’t listen next time someone tells you to turn down your music.
5
20
Summer Reads Gabby Rosenbloom
6
Paletas Por Favor Maria Hernandez
Gabriella Turchet
In the Loop
11
PIECE OF CAKE
Lindsey Bornstein Get ready to get your sugar high on with the yummiest cupcakes in the city.
16
Get Reel Alina Zerpa
Olivia Stauber
Rock out this summer with bright metallic eyeshadow and high shine highlighter.
42
Unico Li
21
Miami’s Next Big Sounds Ryan Fitzpatrick
10 Hungry for High Altitudes
Records That Struck a Chord
30
Made in Miami Gabby Rosenbloom & Patricia Santana
31
Oscar-Worthy Snacks
34
Miami by Design
Teddy Willson
38
DEFYING GRAVITY
Stephanie Stadler & Patricia Santana Flips, tricks and kicks – get your adrenaline rush going with these high-flying sports.
36 DIY: Acai Bowl
Maria Hernandez
Serving Looks Jade Simmons, Lauren Gimpel & Shellie Frai
Main Event
58
INVISIBLE TRADE
Marissa Vonesh
Slavery didn’t disappear, it evolved. Find out more about this human rights crisis.
52
Honey, I’m Going Extinct Marissa Vonesh, Mukta Vibhute & Gabriella Turchet
Teddy Willson
Health & Wellness
ON THE EDGE
56
Modern Royalty
64
Through the Lens
Olivia Stauber
Jasmine Lapadula
may 2017
Letter from the
distractionmagazine.com
WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO MOVIE? Editor-in-Chief_Asmae Fahmy -30Executive Editor_Marissa Vonesh “Roman Holiday.” Managing Editor_Olivia Stauber “The Devil Wears Prada.” Art Directors_Allie Pakrosnis -30- & Jamie Shub -30“Silver Linings Playbook.” Photo Editor_ Sidney Sherman Assistant Art Directors_Alexa Aguilar, Ana Gonzalez, Heidi Lemon & Lindsey Bornstein Assistant Photo Editor_Josie Merkert & Hunter Crenian Copy Chief_Patricia Santana “Mean Girls.” Assistant Copy Chief_Stephanie Stadler -30The Guide Editor_Lauren Flaumenhaft In The Loop Editor_Alina Zerpa -30A La Arts Editor_Teddy Willson “Perks of Being a Wallflower.” Health and Wellness Editor_Kelly Saberi Fashion Editors_Jade Simmons & Lauren Gimpel Assistant Fashion Editor_Shellie Frai “THE SANTA CLAUSE.” The Main Event Editor_Maria Hernandez -30- Public Relations Manager_Gabby Rosenbloom Assistant PR Manager_Elizabeth Pozzuoli Distribution Assistant_Ryan Fitzpatrick Business Manager_Kyle Kingma Assistant Business Manager_Neha Baddam Faculty Adviser_Randy Stano
DISTRACTIONMAGAZINE.COM Online Editorial Coordinators_Alina Zerpa -30- & Thalia Garcia Online Copy Chief_Tori Cameron Entertainment Editor_Jorge Chabo “Midnight in Paris.” Online Fashion Editor_Maddie Reyes Student Life Editor_ Sofia Dacharry Travel Editor_ Teddy Willson Sports Editor_ Alexander Goldman -30“Safe Haven.” Online Photo Editor_Keying Cheng
ASSISTING FACULTY Alex Heria
CONTRIBUTORS Joey Haas, Designer Dani Calderon, Designer Silvana Arguello, Designer Abhinav Chatterjee, Illustrator Celeste Escotet, Illustrator Valentina Escotet, Photographer
Cindy Ho, Photographer Melanie Brooks, Photographer Andres Campanella, Writer Gabriella Turchet, Writer Unico Li, Writer Allison Catala, Writer
Jasmine LaPadadula, Writer Mukta Vibhute, Writer Rori Kotch, Copy Editor Jordan Abrams, PR Matt Karas, PR Jalentasmeste Pin, PR
When it comes to contributors, we’re not picky. Whether you’ve found your niche in a bio book, you’re notorious for doing “nothing” at the comm 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 our editor-in-chief, Asmae Fahmy, at distraction@miami.edu. The magazine is produced four times per year, twice a semester. City Graphics and Bellack Miami printed 8,000 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, please visit distractionmagazine.com. Questions and comments can be mailed to 1330 Miller Drive, Student Media Suite 202A, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, dropped into SSC Student Media Suite Suite 200 or emailed to distraction@miami.edu. All articles, photographs and illustrations are copyrighted by the University of Miami.
EDITOR
When I first started at UM, I was terrified. I had an idea of who I wanted to be, and I was so afraid of not being able to grow into that role that I chose to hide in the sidelines instead. I spent my freshman year scared and uninspired, dealing with debilitating anxiety and barely leaving my bedroom. Then (forgive me for this overused pun) I found a distraction from it all – this magazine. What started as an effort to pursue what I loved professionally ended up transforming and revitalizing my mental, cognitive and emotional states. The passions I used to have started to resurface. The late deadlines that I jokingly complained about were, in their own way, my main source of joy. I remembered what it was like to be involved and have friends outside of my tight-knit circle. I rediscovered the best parts of myself. Distraction changed my life. Working with such talented and enthusiastic minds inspired me to push myself and see the world through so many different perspectives. So in typical “cheesy Asmae” fashion, I’d like to acknowledge the people who helped me along the way. Rori and Lexi, you guys were the best editors I could have ever asked for. Thank you for teaching me everything I know. Valentina and Celeste, you are the most loyal and creative sisters, thanks for being our favorite unofficial New York contributors. Jamie and Allie, working with you guys this past year has meant everything to me – this magazine wouldn’t be the same without Jallie. And as for the people who will continue the legacy, Marissa, Olivia and Sidney, you are all so uniquely talented and I am so proud of each one of you – I know you’ll kill it next year. I guess if I want to leave off with anything, it’s to emphasize, with the utmost sincerity, just how much of a family affair distraction is. The people who work tirelessly on these pages are best friends. This magazine is made over tears and laughter at 4:30 a.m. and mountains of pizza and soda, and we do it out of love for the magazine and love for each other. Distraction has been the greatest distraction to ever happen to me. I can only hope these pages have even a quarter of that impact on you.
THE ELEMENTS THE COVERS: THE MAY ISSUE art direction_allie pakrosnis, jamie shub & asmae fahmy. photo_sidney sherman. With hands covered in different colors of paint, Art Directors Allie Pakrosnis and Jamie Shub and Editor-in-Chief Asmae Fahmy layered tape on the back of a popcorn container, sealing a handful of drumsticks in place in an attempt to prop up the paint-dipped container. It had been two hours on set. Two hours of spilled hot pink, baby-chick yellow and turquoise paints. Two hours of dipping and wiggling. Two hours of work and barely any success. The image the three had in mind was an object with a trail of bright paint dripping off it. Each object would represent a feature of the à la arts special section: popcorn for the film stories, a record for the music stories and a photo frame for the visual arts stories. For the popcorn, they tried three different techniques: painting half of the container in yellow (complete fail, who would have thought yellow paint on a popcorn container could look like American cheese?), painting the whole thing pink, and pouring pink paint down the top. Aesthetically, the poured pink paint was the winner. For records, they dipped “Motown” in yellow paint and shook it around rapidly to try to create the dripping effect. The frame was the easiest one of three, as the ridges in the antique-looking frame allowed for the bright blue
pain to drip off easily. After a dozen of tried and failed attempts, Photo Editor Sidney Sherman was finally able to capture the three perfect shots. This art project, safe to say, was harder to create then we could imagine. About three hours later, we had our three art-inspired covers, each slathered with paint. The images capture the essence of this issue’s special section on the arts. Art is sound, art is visual and art is words – but mainly, art is messy, art is time consuming, and ultimately, art is worth it. At least, that’s what we at distraction believe. To us, art is everywhere. In the soft pulse of the music you listen to while walking to class, the fine curves and crevices that make up Miami’s layout, the words floating in every piece of poetry. Art can be as understated as the paint splattered on a desolate street corner or as overt as an illustration imbued with political and social symbolism. We think everyone has the potential to be an artist, that art can transcend a physical medium and take the form of anything: a painting, a sculpture and sometimes even a magazine cover. While we’ve confined this special section theme to three distinct topics, there is art to be found both in the obvious and in the undercurrents of the world around us. All you have to do is go out and look for it.
art direction_asmae fahmy, allie pakrosnis & sidney sherman. photo_sidney sherman. Working up a sweat in Miami’s heat is always easy, but it’s a completely different story when you are either deemed the professional tennis ball placer (like the members of the core team) or are dressed in the latest athleisure wear (like our wonderful models). The distraction team hit the courts to fully
experience what is means to serve up style. Our Photo Editor Sidney Sherman captured a powerful shot of our model Asia Taylor. Poised in a pink outfit, Taylor’s pouty stare gives a fresh look of determination. Maybe we can all channel the same spirit as Taylor to get through finals.
art direction_allie pakrosnis, jamie shub & sidney sherman. photo_sidney sherman. Before experiencing the most delicious dessert she had ever had, Photo Editor Sidney Sherman’s mouth watered as she took photo after photo of a colorful spread of Mexican popsicles. Driving just a short distance to Miracle Mile, Sherman and Art Directors Jamie Shub and Allie Pakrosnis found one of Miami’s
best-known paleta shops, Morelia. After ordering the most aesthetically pleasing pops (kiwi, strawberry cheesecake and yogurt berry), the team delicately framed the cover using extra fruit, almonds and Morelia’s own cutting board. A few photos later and the team snacked on the photographed paletas.
BEHIND THE SCENES:
ALLIE PAKROSNIS CREATES HEADLINE OUT OF FROSTING.
SIDNEY SHERMAN HOLDS A FISH FOR OUR FISHING STORY.
ALLE PAKROSNIS, JAMIE SHUB & ASMAE FAHMY CREATE ONE OF THE ARTS COVERS.
only %ff for o you!
0 1
Valid at Sunset location: 7315 S Red Rd. Coral Gables, FL 33143 Cannot be combined with any other offer
SUMMER READS words_gabby rosenbloom. photo_sidney sherman. design_lindsey bornstein.
From thrillers to throwbacks, there are shelves full of books to enjoy. Even though you shouldn’t judge books by their covers, don’t fret - we’ve already judged them for you.
HORROR ‘INTO THE WATER’ BY PAULA HAWKINS After the mother and best friend of a 15-year-old girl are found dead at the bottom of a river, the young girl is left with the company of an estranged aunt who is forced to go back to the town she intentionally escaped from. As the story unfolds and the aunt’s dark past is uncovered, the reader is taken on a psychological and horrific ride filled with shocking acts of deceit. If you think finals are scary, think again.
YOUNG ADULT ‘TRAVELING LIGHT’ BY LYNNE BRANARD When Alissa Wells wins a new storage unit, the last thing she expects is to win the ashes of an old man named Roger along with it. She spontaneously makes the decision to drive the ashes back to where they came from and meets some interesting people on the way. Blossom, a waitress and a recent high school graduate, ends up hitching a ride with Alissa and posts about the journey on Facebook. Alissa’s relationship with Blossom teaches her that sometimes it takes a bit of impulsion to reveal what has really been there all along.
NON-FICTION ‘THE ACTUAL ONE’ BY ISY SUTTIE Stand-up comedian Isy Suttie’s autobiography, “The Actual One,” blends comedy with a heavy dose of reality. The book is humorous and light-hearted, bringing a much-needed change from the dry textbooks and articles we read during the school year. If you are looking for a laugh as well as some guidance on how to cope with growing up, “The Actual One” is the way to go.
CRIME ‘LITTLE DEATHS’ BY EMMA FLINT It’s 1960s New York and Ruth Malone, a single mother, comes home from a long shift to find her two children missing. Within days, both her daughter, and son’s bodies are found dead and all signs point to Ruth. As the mess of Ruth’s life is exposed through police investigations, the prosecutors, press and public label her a drunk, promiscuous woman. Ruth’s identity is further exposed as reporter Pete Wonicke starts digging into the case. Inspired by a true story, “Little Deaths” explores one’s ability to be both good and evil.
ROMANCE ‘BLIND REALITY’ BY HEIDI MCLAUGHLIN “Blind Reality” follows the stories of Hollywood heartthrob Joshua Wilson and recently heartbroken Joey Mitchell. The two are both thrown onto a show called “Married Blind” and are expected to participate, but neither one is particularly thrilled. The book puts an interesting spin on shows such as “The Bachelor” and “Big Brother,” enticing readers with a familiar background of reality TV show dating. Crack open this book and join Joshua and Joey on their adventure as they get a hard dose of reality.
LISTEN ‘N’ LEARN Not the biggest bookworm? Here are some podcasts to keep your mind wandering all summer without ever having to turn a page. ‘Savage Lovecast’ Dan Savage provides love advice for people from all walks of life in a hilarious yet educational way. ‘The Hidden Brain’ Why do we do the things we do and feel the way we feel? Find out with Shankar Vedantam on “The Hidden Brain.” ‘Tell Me I’m Funny’ Laugh your way through the trials of amateur comedian Peter Bresnan in the Comedy Central of podcasts. ‘This Is Actually Happening’ This podcast brings you into a world slightly different than your own through first person narratives of extreme and wild situations. “This Is Actually Happening” shares personal accounts of moments that changed the course of strangers’ lives, leaving you breathless and wanting more.
May 2017 DISTRACTION
5
Popsy 1527 S.W. Eighth Street, Miami Made without artificial additives and preservatives, Popsy’s paletas are a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. All of Popsy’s paletas come from hand-churned gelato. The artisan popsicle house serves tasty flavors such as the Nutella-filled Bananarama, the Yogurt n’ Berries, the Apricoconut and the Green Apple. Most of the popsicles have a cream filling such as brigadeiro or condensed milk for extra flavor. The only popsicles without fillings are their fruit flavors.
Milk Gone Nuts 1840 Alton Road, Miami Beach
words_maria hernandez. photo_sidney sherman. design_jamie shub & allie pakrosnis.
As summer approaches, so does the desire of enjoying the sun’s warmth with good company and a cold treat. One of distraction’s favorite summer eats is a Mexican popsicle known as a paleta. Fun and sweet, these pops can be found all over Miami and are perfect for your first Instagram of the summer.
6
DISTRACTION
The Guide
Milk Gone Nuts is the perfect refresher for a day at the beach. Its artisanal paletas are made with different variations of nut milk and are blended together to create a satisfying snack. Milk Gone Nuts is located inside a small gas station, but don’t let that dissuade you from buying a paleta – you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Try the fan favorite: an almond milk chocolatedipped pop. Popsy’s paletas are the perfect antidote to the summer heat.
Pops for Life 150 N.E. First Avenue, Miami The team behind Pops for Life is passionate about perfecting the taste of the treats. Pops for Life strives to make everything authentic and delicious. All the desserts are created in a shop where experimentation, new flavors and snacking is commonplace. Pops for Life’s classic treats are sorbet pops flavored with coconut, lemon, watermelon and other fruits. For those seeking a natural boost, Pops for Life feature detox pops, which are said to be hydrating and energizing.
Coyo Taco 1111 S.W. First Ave., Miami Want a full meal before indulging with paletas? Head on over to Coyo Taco, a restaurant famous for authentic Mexican food and paletas that are almost too good to be true. The paletas are homemade and delivered from La Michoacana, a paleta shop in Homestead. Flavors change seasonally but normally include Jamaica, lime, passion fruit, coconut, strawberry, tamarin and the all-time favorite, cajeta.
HipPOPs The Rock at the University of Miami HipPOPs are made with the healthiest, freshest and highest-quality ingredients. The company has a mobile POPtruck that drives to events all over the city and frequently stops by the University of Miami. HipPOP’s all-natural paletas are gluten-free and kosher, making them perfect for people with dietary restrictions. The menu offers a variety of dips and toppings, allowing your creativity to flow along with your taste buds. Just pick a flavor, dip it in your favorite sauce and add a few toppings. Try the customized, hand-dipped frozen banana – the newest item on the menu. These handcrafted paletas are rich and smooth, and HipPOPS follows the original gelaterias tradition of importing most of its ingredients from Italy.
Kiwi, strawberry cheesecake and yogurt are some of Morelia’s most beloved paleta bases. Paletas originated in Mexico.
D.I.Y.
PINOT NOIR POPSICLES
TROPICAL TEQUILA SUNRISE POPSICLES
BASIL MINT CITRUS MOJITO POPSICLES
Ingredients 4 ounces sugar 1 cup water 5 cups berries (either raspberries or blackberries) 6 ounces Pinot Noir wine
Ingredients 2 cups pineapple juice 1 pound fresh pineapple, peeled and pureed 3/4 cup tequila 1/4 cup grenadine
Directions 1. Mix the sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool. 2. Puree berries in a blender. 3. Pour syrup and wine into a bowl and taste. 4. Pour mixture into popsicle molds, add sticks and freeze until solid.
Directions 1. Combine and stir pineapple juice, pureed pineapple and tequila. 2. Fill 3/4 of the popsicle molds with the pineapple mixture and then pour one teaspoon of grenadine to each. 3. Add sticks and freeze until solid.
Ingredients 12 fresh mint leaves 12 fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice 2 tablespoon lemon juice 2 tablespoon lime juice 2 1/2 tbsp sugar 1 cup crushed ice 2 tablespoon Directions: 1. Juice all of the citrus fruits. 2. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend. 3. Pour liquid into popsicle molds, add sticks and freeze until solid.
May 2017 DISTRACTION
7
FOR THE
words_alina zerpa. photo_sidney sherman. design_allie pakrosnis.
176 N.W. 24th St., Miami If you’re tired of the same nightclub and party scene in Miami, look no further than the up-and-coming breweries popping up around South Florida. If beer isn’t your thing, remember there is more variety than the Natty Light you had at that one tailgate – give craft beers a chance. Whether you’re looking for the newest seasonal brew or an eccentric night out, put one of these addresses in your GPS to find your next go-to hangout spot.
J. WAKEFIELD OF BEER
8
DISTRACTION
9010 S.W. 72nd Pl., Miami
120 N.W. 24th St., Miami
The biggest problem you’ll have at World of Beer is trying to pick just one drink from the selection of more than 550 craft beers on tap and in the bar’s coolers. Look through the menu and decide which country you feel like drinking from or mix and match beers from multiple destinations. If you want to do more than drink, check out the bar when there’s a special event going on such as Beer Bingo or Ladies Night. Plan on tasting them all? Join the World of Beer Loyalty program which lets you earn points for prizes while you drink around the world.
John Wakefield went from playing around with a Mr. Beer home brew kit in 2005 to opening his own brewery in 2015. With five classic beers year-round, Wakefield finds its home amongst “Star Wars” – themed graffiti and wine barrel chandeliers. Try the owner’s favorite beer, La Nada (The Nothing), with 10 percent alcohol by volume (ABV), or explore the brewery’s seasonal beers. There is always something new to try and take home. It’s safe to say that the force is strong with this one.
The Guide
If you like your beer with a side of live music, D.J.s and stand-up comedy, make your way to Gramps in Wynwood. The bar, which opens at 11 a.m. every day, has a small pizza shop, food trucks and an indoor/outdoor bar. Gramps’ happy hour includes craft beers for $3.50 from 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. From Nerd Nite to Toto Drag Shows on Wednesdays, Gramps is a great place to experience a more eccentric side of Miami that you may have never known.
CONCRETE BREWERY 325 N.W. 24th St., Miami After you’re done visiting the Wynwood Walls and snapping selfies, take a walk down to Concrete Beach Brewery. Whether it’s for a free tour of the brewery or to pick up a keg to take home, this place has it all. Choose from one of the brewery’s seven homemade beers, such as the Tropic of Passion Fruit Beer. Enjoy board games, cornhole and mancala while you order the flights of beer: four for $6. The concrete, yet cozy atmosphere is great for an adventure or a date night on a budget.
NAME THOSE
BREWERY BAY BREWING CO. 5813 Ponce De Leon Boulevard, Coral Gables
8000 N.W. 25th St. Ste. 500, Doral
Titanic, one of Miami’s older breweries, sits right next to campus. Since its opening in 1995, Titanic has been serving up beer and seafood dishes for students and locals alike. Now, Titanic serves 12 signature beers and hosts Sunday night karaoke, live music events and open mic nights. Titanic doubles as a seafood restaurant, decorated with an industrial and marine inspired atmosphere to mimic Miami’s title as cruise capital of the world. The brewery offers specials on other local beers, so there’s always something new to sip on. Happy hour is every day from 4-7 p.m., so go unwind after class and expand your beer knowledge.
If you type Biscayne Bay Brewing Company’s address in your phone’s GPS, don’t be surprised when it says “you have reached your destination” at a church. Drive to the back of the warehouse area and you’ll find Biscayne Bay Brewing Company. This Doralbased brewery opened in 2014 and offers four core beers and three seasonal ones. During happy hour from 3-7 p.m., beers are half off. Pro tip: go on Tuesdays for $1 tacos or Wednesdays for $.25 wings. Yeah, you read that correctly.
HOUSE OF 630 S.W. 109th Ave., Miami If you’re looking for a college-like atmosphere away from UM, head on down to Sweetwater’s House of Beers and discover where the students from Florida International University get their beer and cigars. House of Beers has eight rotating taps and custom six-packs that you can pick from more than 72 available bottles. They also sell 64 ounce growlers to fill up with the beers on tap. If you need help finding the brewery, just look for the barbershop that it shares the space with.
BREWING CO. 10400 N.W. 33rd St. Ste. 150, Doral M.I.A. Beer Company finds its home in Doral and has that neighborhood bar feel – its beers are even named after Miami staples. There are 12 beers on tap that range from $5 to $8, with $1 off pints during happy hour. Be sure to arrive hungry because the menu also offers beer pairings with your grilled churrasco panini, Bahamian conch fritters, jumbo pretzel and more. The brewery offers $5 tours on Saturday from 1-6 p.m., which includes a brewery tour and one free pint of an M.I.A. beer. Pretty soon you’ll be saying “esta cerveza es MIA.”
FUNKY BREWERY 1201 N.E. 38th St., Oakland Park Funky Buddha Brewery in Oakland Park sells its brews at your local liquor store. However, if you’re willing to take a drive (please don’t drink and drive), the traffic is worth the wait. Beers from the brewery have expanded their reach to multiple bars throughout Florida. Find the beers’ whereabouts using the website’s “Beer Finder.” Funky Buddha plans on expanding, but for now, the brewery has 11 staple beers year-round and four seasonal beers. There are also tours every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for $5 that include a branded glass and beer samples.
LINCOLN’S BREWING 7360 S.W. 41st St., Miami Come to this unique brewery in Westchester where the bar is made completely out of pennies. Lincoln’s Beard Brewing offers cornhole, an upper deck and barrels that double as tables where locals can enjoy Lincoln’s six house beers and nine guest beers. With fun events such as karaoke Wednesdays, the only downside to the brewery is the parking. Check the online parking map to make sure you park in the right area. Be sure to bring your own growler and fill it with their house beer.
HOPS Though the brands and percentages of beers might be confusing, have no fear – we’ll turn you into a pro the next time you’re out on a bar crawl so you can order the perfect beer every time.
LAGER Budweiser, Coors Light and Miller Lite are all lagers. Lagers are conditioned at low temperatures and matured in cold storage. They range around four percent alcohol by volume (ABV) and tend to be on the cheaper side.
A LE Ales use warm fermentation, which results in a sweet, fruity taste. They range in color, which is a result of the amino acids and the sugar. Ales typically range from seven to nine percent ABV, so make sure to eat before you drink.
PI LS NER Originating from the Czech Republic, Pilsners are characterized by high carbonation and hops that have floral aromas and a crisp, bitter finish. These beers tend to range from only four to six percent ABV.
STOUT On the darker side of beer are stouts, which use roasted malt or roasted barley, hops, water and yeast. Stouts tend to have a higher ABV, typically around seven to eight percent. Pick up a Guinness Draught, the world’s best-selling stout, and you’ll see what they are all about.
May 2017 DISTRACTION
9
HUNGRY FOR
HIGH ALTITUDES
words_ gabriella turchet. photo_melanie brooks. design_joey haas.
ROOFTOP E11EVEN
It can be easy to forget what a paradise we live in when we’re constantly keeping up with school, work and the rest of our busy lives. For a day when you feel like treating yourself, grab a friend and try one of the many open-air rooftop bars and restaurants in Miami. Fresh air, good food and breathtaking views are all you need for a moment of relaxation.
15 N.E. 11th St., Miami When you need a breath of fresh air but still want to party, Rooftop at E11even hits just the spot. Immerse yourself in Miami’s downtown area and experience the wind coming off the Bay with a drink in hand. With an assortment of drinks at your disposal and a variety of hookah flavors to choose from, it’s always a pleasure to lounge here. Hunger won’t be an issue here, as Rooftop at E11even serves everything from chilled tapas to rigatoni vodka pasta.
PAWN BROKER
JUVIA
121 S.E. First Street, Miami
1111 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach
Tucked away in Miami’s financial district, the Pawn Broker is a rooftop bar out of its time. With the sounds of vinyl records mixing with the soothing chatter of the crowd, Pawn Broker perfectly crafts a classy and vintage ambiance where you can feel right at home. The bar hosts a variety of tapas and delicately crafted specialty drinks. It’s no wonder this place got its name on Eater Miami as the 2016 Miami Bar of the Year Award.
Conveniently located along one of Miami’s most popular roads, Juvia provides a spectacular view of Miami Beach. Not only will you feel like you’re on top of the world, but your stomach will be satisfied like never before upon your departure. Juvia provides elegant flavors for the most refined tastes. Here, you can find anything from Peruvian to Japanese to French cuisine.
AREA 31 270 Biscayne Blvd. Way, Miami Area 31 is a one-of-a-kind kitchen and bar offering views of the Miami River and Biscayne Bay. Located on the roof of the EPIC Hotel, Area 31 presents true panoramic elegance. Experience Miami from a new perspective while sipping on a tasty Dark Scent Cocktail, the bar’s specialty drink. From happy hours to funky disco nights, it’s no wonder Area 31 is the new spot in town. As an added bonus, Area 31 only serves locally sustainable dishes, such as the fishermen’s stew and the lamb tartar, because sustainability is the new posh.
10 DISTRACTION The Guide
words_lindsey bornstein. photo_sidney sherman. design_ allie pakrosnis.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 11
t may seem like the cupcake craze has died down over the last few years to make room for trendier desserts. However, there is hope: cupcake shops are making their comeback. In preparation for your next sweet adventure, we’ve rounded up the best cupcake joints Miami has to offer.
DULCE DE LECHE
MISHA’S CUPCAKES 1548 S. Dixie Highway, Coral Gables
DIRT CUP
SAMOA
Misha’s Cupcakes, home to cakes both big and small and in all sorts of flavors, is just a stone’s throw away from the University of Miami. Mini cakes are the shop’s most popular option, giving just enough of a taste to satisfy your sweets craving. Make sure to try one of our favorites: the Dulce de Leche, Samoa and the ever-popular Dirt Cup, a chocolate cupcake complete with a gummy worm that will make you feel like a kid again.
BANOFFEE
SWEETNESS BAKESHOP 9549 S.W. 72nd St., Miami
GUAYABERA
VANILLA STRAWBERRY
With a daily rotation of different flavors, the award-winning Sweetness Bakeshop guarantees that you’ll always find something new. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, try the Guayabera cupcake, which is filled with guava and topped with cream cheese frosting, and the Banoffee cupcake, a fresh banana cake with dulce de leche buttercream and a graham cracker bottom. Other house favorites include the 24 Carrot and the Tiramisu. If you want to stick with the basics, the shop also offers classics such as chocolate and vanilla.
BUTTERCREAM CUPCAKES & COFFEE 1411 Sunset Drive, Coral Gables Craving something sweet that won’t melt on the ride home? Head out to Buttercream Cupcakes & Coffee. Thanks to the rotating cupcake selection, you can expect to find a new treat every time you visit. A colorful favorite is the Vanilla Strawberry which is sure to make your day. Pair your cupcakes with something from the coffee and tea menu, such as the caramel macchiato or chai spiced latte. You might not be able to resist the urge to Instagram this perfect combo, but it’s okay, we get it.
12 DISTRACTION In The Loop
PRINCESS SOPHIA
CLOUD 9 BAKERY & CAFE 12723 S. Dixie Highway, Pinecrest Are you feeling like you’re on cloud nine? You’re probably eating one of Cloud 9’s fabulously decorated cupcakes. We love the Princess Sophia, a pink vanilla cupcake topped with pink vanilla buttercream, edible glitter and pink sprinkles named for the lovely 8-yearold who apparently “runs” the family bakery. Another crowd favorite is the Hot Cocoa Cupcake, Cloud 9’s original chocolate cupcake, which is topped with a cocoa-marshmallow buttercream and finished with a dash of miniature marshmallows. No matter which cupcake you choose, it’s sure to come with nostalgic inspiration and lots of frosting.
HOT COCOA
OREO
WHOLE FOODS BAKERY 6701 Red Road, Coral Gables Whole Foods doesn’t have to be healthy. Stroll down to the baked goods aisle and you’ll find some seriously sweet treats. Try the Oreo cupcake, where rich chocolate, crunchy Oreos and creamy frosting blend together to create the perfect combination of flavors. The best part? The cupcake is available at Whole Foods year-round.
PASSION FRUIT
BUNNIE CAKES 2322 N.E. Second Avenue, Miami Miami’s favorite vegan bakery has earned its reputation for a reason – you can’t even tell the products are vegan. Bunnie Cake’s Coconut Chocolate and Passion Fruit cupcakes are our favorites, but you really can’t go wrong with any cupcake on the menu. Make sure to get the mini pack and stock up on your favorite daily or monthly flavors before they’re gone. Although, let’s be real: we know you’ll be going back for more.
CHOCOLATE COCONUT
May 2017 DISTRACTION 13
SPRINKLE & SERVE Although bakery-hopping is one of our favorite activities, sometimes you just can’t beat the homemade version. Here are a few recipes that’ll come in handy when you just don’t want to leave your house.
VANILLA STRAWBERRY CUPCAKE • MAKES 12 For Cupcakes 200 g unsalted butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup caster sugar 3 eggs 2 1/2 cups self-raising flour, sifted 1/2 cup milk For Frosting 2 1/2 cups icing sugar mixture, sifted 3 teaspoons milk 3 teaspoons strawberry essence Pink food coloring Icing flowers, to decorate
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Line two 12-hole, 1/3 cupcapacity muffin pans with paper cases. 3. Using an electric mixer, beat butter, vanilla and sugar in a small bowl until they are light and fluffy. 4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition (mixture will separate at this stage). Transfer mixture to a large bowl. Stir in half the flour and then half the milk. Repeat with remaining flour and milk until combined.
5. For 1/3 cupcapacity muffin pans use two level tablespoons of mixture. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes. 6. Let cakes stand in pans for two minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool. For Strawberry Icing 1. Place icing sugar in a bowl. Stir in milk to form a spreadable icing, adding more milk if necessary. 2. Stir in strawberry essence. Tint icing with food coloring. Spread icing over cakes. Decorate with icing flowers.
VEGAN COCONUT CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES • MAKES 12 For Cupcakes 1 cup full-fat coconut milk 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup coconut oil (softened) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup cocoa powder, sifted 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Frosting 12 ounces coconut cream, chilled overnight 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1/2 cup shredded coconut Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cupcake pan with paper liners. 2. Whisk together the coconut milk, sugar and coconut oil. Make sure coconut oil is completely melted. Stir in vanilla. 3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Pour in the coconut milk mixture.
14 DISTRACTION In The Loop
4. Spoon into liners, filling each with a 1/4 cup of batter (cups should be no more than 2/3 full). Bake for 20 minutes. 5. For whipped coconut cream, spoon solid coconut out of can. Place in a chilled mixing bowl and beat on high speed until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Return to refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. 6. Frost cupcakes with a thin layer of coconut cream. It’s pretty lose, so it won’t hold huge swirls like buttercream. Dollop a bit of frosting on top of the cupcake, then dip top in a bowl of shredded coconut.
wvum.org/apply
May 2017 DISTRACTION 15
GET
REEL words_alina zerpa. photo_sidney sherman. design_ alexa aguilar.
Fishermen are early to bed, early to rise, fish all day and tell big lies. While you should never believe the stories of how gigantic and difficult their catch of the day was, picking up the actual art of fishing is not as challenging as it may seem to be. All it takes is equipment, clear skies and a boatload of patience.
16 DISTRACTION In The Loop
KNOW THE BASICS
TECHNIQUES
As frustrating as it might be, the only way to know what equipment to buy for fishing is to plan based on what you hope to catch. For example, catching kingfish requires a heavy rod and 25-pound nylon because kingfish have sharp teeth that will cut through your line. For beginners, a mediumsized rod would be appropriate since it’s not so light that it’ll bend and not so heavy that you won’t feel the bite. Although there are all kinds of weight for nylon, a 10-12-pound would fit the rod nicely. As for your hook, while you can pick from 14 different sizes, a #2 is a good size to start with; picking a circle hook will help keep the fish alive because it’ll only hook the lip instead of their gut.
Fishing is more than sitting by a pier with your line in the water and waiting for a bite. You might have to wait a while, but there are different ways to get to your end goal. You can put a weight on the line and drop it in the water and wait. For fish such as yellowtail, throw the line in the water and let it drift away with the current. For fish such as bass, put on a plastic worm, keep throwing it out and reeling it back in. If you’re on a boat, use a heavier rod with 200 to 300-pound nylon and drive off, so larger fish such as marlin will go after the bait. If you’re walking in water and knee-deep fishing, just walk and use the bass technique.
BAIT: PLASTIC VS. REAL Deciding what bait to use depends on what you want to catch, but after you’re done looking through the pretty plastic bait, it’s time to decide which to use. Whether it’s sardines, worms or anything else small and slimy, real bait will generally get you more fish. Keep in mind that live bait in a bucket will need a motor to give the fish the oxygen they need to stay alive. This motor is about the size of your palm – it’s the same one that causes the entertaining bubbles in an aquarium. If you can’t find real bait, opt for plastic bait. However, know that it requires more work on your part on how well you can work it in the water. A fake worm needs to be hooked on the side so that when you jerk it in the water, a fish will believe it’s the real thing and not some floating piece of plastic. A sardine look-alike will already have the hook in it, so start practicing how to tug it to get one step closer to the day you can tell the tale of how you caught a fish.
WHERE TO GO You’re all geared up, already imagining that fish in your hand and how clever the photo caption will be when you catch it – except that you have no idea where to go. Technically, you can fish wherever there is a body of water, but you may not catch anything. Before going out to fish, look up which fish are in season so you don’t hope for a mackerel (a winter fish) in the summer. As for where to go, you can start at Lake Osceola and work your way up to the bridges in the Keys, Matheson Hammock Park or where the water meets the wall in Brickell. Remember, fishers will fish anywhere – channel your inner Guy Harvey and just go.
COMING HOME Once you’ve finished your long and (hopefully) successful fishing trip, the day is not complete until you’ve washed all of your equipment. Hose down your rods to make sure the salt water is off, otherwise you’ll ruin your expensive toy. Make sure your hooks and baits are all organized in a tackle box for the next time you go out fishing – which will probably be as soon as the weather is nice again.
SKIN & DEBONE After snagging your perfect catch of the day, the job isn’t quite finished. Here’s how to prepare your fish.
FILET 1. Cut horizontally on the fish’s spine to separate its spikes with the meat from the bone. 2. Make a deep cut behind the gills until you hit the bone, but not all the way through the fish. 3. Start outlining the meat with the knife and slice under the meat – but over the bone – until you get to the other side of the fish. 4. Flip the fish over and cut out the skin to only be left with the meat.
FRY IT 1. Descale the fish by using a knife and going against the grain – think of it like shaving your legs or face. 2. Cut off the head at an angle so you also cut out the gills. 3. Make a deep cut on the bottom of the fish so the guts come out. 4. Water the fish down to make sure it’s clean.
CEVICHE 1. Filet the fish, chop it up into little squares and put it into a bowl. 2. Add enough lemon to overflow the bowl and cook it on the stove. 3. Add chopped up onions and cilantro. 4. Cook for 40 minutes and eat with crackers.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 17
INTERACTIVE MEDIA AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI The University of Miami Interactive Media program aims to prepare a new generation of innovators and leaders in the field of interaction design. The M.F.A. in Interactive Media is a 45 credit masters degree with tracks in interaction design, game design, data journalism and visualization, and interactive storytelling. We welcome U.S. and international master degree candidates who share an affinity and talent for using design and technology to solve real word problems. The deadline to apply for UM’s M.F.A. in Interactive Media is May 31, 2017. To apply, visit https://interactive.miami.edu/admissions/. Please contact socgrad@miami.edu if you encounter difficulties applying or have questions about our application process.
18 DISTRACTION In The Loop
photo_sidney sherman. design_allie pakrosnis.
Art is catharsis and emotion, senses and opinions, paint and poetry. Art is music, film and vision. Here’s to the arts, and all it embodies – life’s transformative tool. May 2017 DISTRACTION 19
RECORDS THAT
STRUCK A
CHORD words_unico li. photo_olivia stauber. design_lindsey bornstein.
Music is a form of art with the potential to break traditions and set new trends. Thanks to the tireless work and devotion of talented minds, music has evolved into a vehicle to express perspectives and beliefs to mass audiences. A song can change the attitude of a generation.
‘MODERN SOUNDS IN COUNTRY AND WESTERN MUSIC’ BY RAY CHARLES In his 1962 album, Ray Charles fused music styles and influenced future generations. His album expanded his audience and sparked new ideas about country music. Upon the release, Charles became one of the first AfricanAmerican musicians to be accepted by the mainstream, which went hand-in-hand with the shifting attitudes during the Civil Rights Movement. Charles emanated a disregard for stereotypes, and blended culture through his music.
‘SGT. PEPPER’S LONELY HEARTS CLUB BAND’ BY THE BEATLES Countless people rejoiced over this Beatles masterpiece during the summer of ‘67. This studio album was a turning point for the band members, indicating a shift in musical style, despite the success of their previous seven albums. The iconic release of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” coupled with the resounding positivity in contemporary reviews, marked the rise of the album era. The record is regarded as the very first concept album, in which all of the songs fit together to tell a collective story and make a stance. It was also the first rock album to win the Album of the Year Grammy.
‘THRILLER’ BY MICHAEL JACKSON ‘NEVERMIND’ BY NIRVANA “Nevermind” was a surprising hit in the ‘90s. The album appealed to a younger crowd of people eager to be heard. The album’s hit song, “Teen Spirit,” instantly turned the notion of teen spirit into a new trend, redrawing the pop culture map and establishing both commercial and cultural values for a whole generation. “Nevermind” reconstructed the general view of alternative rock and grunge music, and its success brought something new and unique into the mainstream.
For many, it is practically impossible to imagine what modern music would be like without Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” Jackson was determined to create an album in which every song was a hit. “Thriller” was one of the first albums to use music videos, which completely transformed the industry. The album and its title track are credited for the unparalleled merging of film and music. Even more, its success paved the way for other African-American musicians to receive equal recognition. “Thriller” remains the world’s best-selling album.
‘THE CHRONIC’ BY DR. DRE “The Chronic’s” success established Dr. Dre as one of the biggest hip-hop stars of all time. The album, released in 1992, brought G-funk, or gangsta funk, to mass audiences. “Chronic” opened up a new world for later musicians. Dr. Dre’s road to success, which took place in the streets of Compton, California, was its own form of a revolution.
20 DISTRACTION
À La Arts
ARTISTS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE Chance the Rapper: A pioneer within the industry, Chance refuses to sign to a record label. In 2017, he won his first Grammy – something that has never happened for an unsigned artist. Aside from making music history, Chance engages in various humanitarian efforts. Lady Gaga: Lady Gaga uses her talent to challenge societal contingencies, touching on controversial issues in her songs and music videos and supporting LGBTQ rights.
MIAMI’S
words_ryan fitzpatrick. photo_elias smith & cindy ho. design_allie pakrosnis.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 21
F
rom electronic music to R&B to jazz, the musicians on our campus cover a wide range of genres and find inspiration in distinctive ways, but they all have this in common: a passion for self-expression. The Frost School of Music was recently recognized by The Hollywood Reporter as one of the top 25 music schools in the country. Frost boasts numerous award winning professors
who teach in many of its programs. The school has a 600 seat concert hall and the Weeks Recording Studio which is one of the best academic studios in the country among its other state of the art facilities. With both Frost’s and Miami’s resources, performers have endless opportunities to refine their skills, share their love of music, become a force of nature and showcase their talent.
C
CORBÉT R&B Influences: Jazz & Electro Junior Corbet Campbell, otherwise known as Corbét, is a songstress from New York who creates mystical music that she says is meant for wonderers and wanderers. “I would classify my sound as R&B, with some jazz influence and electro flavor,” Corbét said. “I want to appeal to a hungry, young crowd.” Corbét says she knew she wanted to be a singer from the moment she could sing to a tune, but she did not start writing or playing instruments until she was 13. Since then, she has built a stockpile of songs that draw upon various sources of inspiration.
I ALWAYS LIKE EXPERIENCING ART AND DRAWING FROM THE MOODS AND EMOTIONS IT CONVEYS. “Whether it be film, music, photography or a Stephen King novel, I always like experiencing art and drawing from the moods and emotions it conveys,” Corbét said. The electronic productions that support Corbét’s captivating vocals are sure to create an emotional experience for both digital listeners and live audiences. Creativity is second nature to Corbét, and the distinct sound of her music is sure to be unlike anything you have heard before. With so many instruments integrated into her work, she feels it is important to maintain the overall message of the song. “After I finish school, the plan is to make an extended play, create a show based around that music, and ultimately get people excited about it,” she said.
22 DISTRACTION
À La Arts
M
MEL BRYANT BLUES, FOLK Influences: Rock & Indie Pop
SHENZI SOUL, HIP HOP Influences: Funk & Jazz Self-described as a band of savages, SHENZI is making its mark on the music scene by uniting the smooth sounds of future soul with those of funky hip-hop. Members Des Bannister, Conor McCarthy, Andrew Novoa, Koa Ho and Johnathan Hulett – on vocals, guitar, keyboard, bass and drums – have both similarities and differences when it comes to their sources of inspiration. Their unique sound, however, is something that they can all agree on. The vision for SHENZI was crafted mostly by the band’s drummer, Hulett, who recruited members based on his search for a specific sound. SHENZI’s unique musical aesthetic can be described as a mix of soul, hip-hop, funk and jazz, drawing inspiration from a range of artistic influences such as Chaka Khan and James Blake. Uniting these styles into one smooth sound has been well-received by audiences both
in and outside of Frost. However, it wasn’t until a successful performance on campus that SHENZI decided to be more than just a school ensemble. The band credits much of their popularity to faculty and friends in Frost that graciously support their musical endeavors. “We seem to attract people that love quality music, genuine creativity, and artistic expression,” Hulett said. The soulful vibes of SHENZI derive from the special bond that the band formed as a group of passionate and talented visionaries. “We hang out a lot as a family, so creative ideas and personal support are always part of the picture,” Hulett said. The band says their sources of inspiration have been everything from political struggles to relationships to food. Each member has been deeply connected to music from an early age, so SHENZI aspires to support emerging artists in the community. “We want to build a studio space and play at festivals like Afro Punk or Governor’s Ball – but all in all, if we can inspire someone to pursue their passion, then we have made a positive impact,” Hulett said.
An ambitious yet down-to-earth senior, Mel Bryant is a bluesy folk singer with big plans for her future. As someone who finds inspiration in different forms of media, such as film and literature, the ingenuity of her music is guaranteed. For the melodies and instrumentals of her work, Bryant is influenced by artists from previous generations such as Jimi Hendrix and Dead & Company. However, she cites modern performers such as Lady Gaga and Lana Del Rey as inspiring leaders of the music industry. She believes that both women present consistent visual showmanship with a commitment to their craft. “I feel very strongly about the importance of artists taking back control. It is a rarity because of the monopoly that the music industry holds over artists and songwriters,” Bryant said. The professors at Frost teach the ins and outs of the music business to musicians to familiarize them with the industry, and Bryant says that has given her a strong background. She credits much of her success to friends, students and alumni of Frost. After graduation, Bryant hopes to move to Nashville to start an all-encompassing music management company that will be run independently for artists, by artists. “It’s very difficult to do all the work of financing, planning recording sessions, advertising, marketing and publicizing your music by yourself, but it’s something you have to do if you want to grow as an independent musician and entrepreneur,” Bryant said. With the help of ‘Cane Records, Byrant will soon be releasing her debut full-length album, “High Priestess.” The album will be available on iTunes, Spotify, SoundCloud and Bandcamp. May 2017 DISTRACTION 23
24 DISTRACTION
À La Arts
YOUR
BRAIN ON
U M sI c words_asmae fahmy. photo_sidney sherman. design_jamie shub & allie pakrosnis.
You hear it every day, through multiple mediums, in a variety of volumes. Sometimes your attention is consumed by its blaring presence; other times it’s a familiar friend gently humming in the background of elevators, cafés and hotel lobbies. Sometimes you seek it out – drive up the decibels because it reminds you of a moment you can’t otherwise reach, a person you can’t otherwise touch. When it’s too heavy, it can shake you. When it’s too moody, it can bring you to tears. But sometimes, the right words, to the right tune, at the right time, can change absolutely everything.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 25
26 DISTRACTION
À La Arts
Music, in all its iterations, exists beyond the files stored inside of a dust-ridden first-generation iPod or the soundtrack of a worn-out prom montage. The songs you listen to and the stories they tell have the power to rewire your neurons: they can transcend their entertainment value to change your mood, assuage your body’s pains, even bring back memories you thought were buried in the past. According to Dr. Kimberly Sena Moore, an assistant professor at Frost School of Music’s Music Therapy program, music has medicinal properties that make music therapy a viable alternative for someone who isn’t responding to more conventional treatments. Where invasive procedures and chemical agents have failed, sounds arranged rhythmically can be all the medicine needed. “Our brains and bodies respond cognitively, physically and emotionally to music,” Sena Moore said. “So in essence what music therapists do is capitalize on this natural connection in an intentional, therapeutic way.” Sena Moore uses this concept to treat people stricken with inflexible symptoms. Her day-to-day agenda ranges from helping a child on the autism spectrum learn how to communicate to helping someone who had a stroke relearn how to walk. She uses music – singing and playing the guitar, piano, harp or flute – and musical experiences to target nonmusical treatment goals. Her drug of choice: song, administered aurally. Music’s capacity for physical and mental healing is not a novel concept. In ancient Greece, Plato and Aristotle wrote that music has the potential to help people recover from emotional distress. Ancient Egyptians saw chant therapies as an integral part of the recovery process. The healing properties of music can be channeled to momentarily brighten a dark mood, or into an extended process that eases the symptoms of a particular disease. Music, because of its structure and catchiness, and sometimes, because of the emotions we ascribe
to it, is capable of enduring in the neural patchwork of the brain for an entire lifetime, persisting in spite of advanced age or brain damage. Our recollections of music can have an infinite shelf life. Mere exposure to a certain sound or song can draw out memories that had been dormant for decades and restore abilities feared to have been long-lost. Dan Cohen, the founder of the nonprofit organization Music & Memory, applied this idea to patients with advanced Alzheimer’s and dementia, as shown in the documentary “Alive Inside,” which captured the effects of music on patients such as 92-year-old dementia-stricken Henry. At first Henry sits inert, staring down at his palms, a wall up over his eyes. He can’t seem to follow the syntax of a sentence, letting a subject-verbobject dissolve into a stuttered subject or an incoherent object. A nurse walks
“
MUSIC IS ONE OF THE FEW TYPES OF STIMULI WHERE YOU CAN HAVE A SHARED EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE WITHOUT A LOT OF WORK.
”
up with a pair of headphones and slowly places them on his ears. As soon as the vibrations of Cab Calloway’s voice seize his eardrums, Henry starts to dance. His eyes light up, a wave of euphoria enraptures him, and he moves his hands – wrinkled and withered from the currents of time, frozen in place right beforehand – around in his wheelchair rapidly. He sings Calloway’s lyrics with the same velvety voice that couldn’t respond to a yes or no question a minute earlier. Undeterred by one of the harshest diagnoses imaginable, Henry begins to speak again. “It [music] gives me the feeling of love, of romance. I figure right now the world needs to come into music,” he said. “You’ve got beautiful music here.” Henry is reawakened and reanimated – almost as if he’s being brought back to life. The songs he had an affinity for helped bridge the gap between his past
and present, something Sena Moore has witnessed many times. She says that music has a strong connection to the deeper structures of our brain and can be a part of someone’s identity. “It’s that primitive connection between our auditory system and our emotional memory systems that music therapists tap into to provide these opportunities,” Sena Moore said. “Even the other day, a client was listening to music while her husband was there, and when a song started playing she looked at him and said ‘Well, shall we dance?’” For Moore and other specialists, music is not just a tool to treat cognitive disorders. Our network of temporal and emotional memories can be leveraged to uncover the root of unhealthy patterns and help people break free from selfsabotaging behaviors. “Music can be helpful for learning healthy and adaptive emotional competence; to teach self-regulation of emotion and practice,” she said. Sena Moore applies this concept to aiding hospitalized clients cope with their anxiety, pain and any sense of isolation. With a quick reconnaissance of the objects scattered in the room as well as the demeanor of the patient, Moore discerns the music the patient will respond best to. She then sings a song from a genre that the patient will like, redirecting his/her attention from their present ailment. One singular experience for Sena Moore was entering a hospital room filled with a woman battling cancer and her family. Up until that moment, the family hadn’t been able to find a platform for emotional release. Afterwards, the woman’s father thanked Sena Moore for the impact she had on their family; for providing that necessary outlet for catharsis and bonding. A few weeks later the woman died, and Sena Moore was invited to sing at her funeral, a performance she will never forget. “You look at the role of music across the life span, and it helps people bond,” she said. “Music is one of the few types of stimuli where you can have a shared emotional experience without a lot of work – it’s something that can just happen.” May 2017 DISTRACTION 27
Browse
Distraction’s Ultimate Playlist
Radio
YOUR MUSIC
Different activities require different soundtracks. From
Daily Mix
pregaming to studying, we’ve got you covered.
Songs PLAY
Albums
FOLLOWING
Artists Stations Local Files
STUDY HARD SONG
ARTIST
PLAYLISTS
Bubblegum
TOTEM, Aalias
Study Hard
Pariah
Braxton Cook
Road Trippin’
Sunshower
Rafiq Bhatia
Chill Out
Premiere Gymnopedie
Erik Satie
Pregame
Reverie
Claude Debussy
Workout
Changeling/Transmission
DJ Shadow
How I Feel
Pomo
ROAD TRIPPIN’
Issues Julia Michaels
SONG
ARTIST
Electric Love
BØRNS
Saved
Khalid
Diamond Dreams
Castro
pink skies
LANY
Devotion
Coleman Hell
Winter Of Our Youth
Bastille
We Are the Kids
Walk the Moon
CHILL OUT SONG
ARTIST
Don’t Swallow the Cap
The National
Sleep on the Floor
The Lumineers
Lake Michigan
Rogue Wave
Should Have Known Better
Sufjan Stevens
I Don’t Know
Nick Hakim
With Me
dvsn
Fingerprints
Hiatus Kaiyote
PREGAME SONG
ARTIST
Angels
Chance The Rapper, Saba
Villa
Niykee Heaton
Swordfish Hotkiss Night
Empire of the Sun
Miracle
Kimbra
Mask off
Future
Gangsta Walk
SNBRN ft. Nate Dogg
Ch-Ching - Redux
Chairlift, D.R.A.M., Jimi Tents
WORKOUT SONG
ARTIST
Birthday Cake
Rihanna
The Motherload
Mastodon
One Minute to Midnight
Justice
Bricks
Carnage, Migos
Work REMIX
A$AP Ferg, A$AP Rocky
Five More Hours
Deorro, Chris Brown
All Night
The Vamps, Matoma
Listening on distr202a04
IN A LOOK INTO THE ORIGINS & EFFECTS OF ‘MOONLIGHT’ words_gabby rosenbloom & patricia santana. design_ allie pakrosnis.
phenomenon that the American Civil Liberties Union describes as “a national trend wherein children are funneled out of public schools and into the juvenile and criminal justice systems.” The pipeline particularly affects students of color and sets students up for a future in the criminal justice system. The school system fails Ciron instead of approaching him to understand the underlying causes of his actions. His tormentors are never punished and the movie skips forward 10 years, making Chiron’s time in jail as invisible to us as criminalized youth today.
“Moonlight,” directed by Barry Jenkins and based on a play written by UM Professor Tarell Alvin McCraney, follows the life of a young black man from Liberty City named Chiron. Drawing inspiration from Jenkin and McCraney’s own experiences, “Moonlight” illustrates the trials of growing up in poverty as a gay black boy and being raised by a drug-addicted mother.
THIS FILM THROWS A HARSH REALITY RIGHT IN THE FACES OF AUDIENCES.
The film is about a young man’s struggle to find himself. As the first all-black, LGBT film to win “Best Picture” at the Oscars, “Moonlight” unflinchingly portrays Chiron’s multifaceted struggles, imcluding as addiction and homophobia. When we first meet Chiron, he struggles most with his strained relationship with his neglectful, drugaddicted mother. Chiron’s mother, Paula, is addicted to crack cocaine. This was an unfortunate reality for several million people in the 80s, a time when the number of cocaine users in the U.S. was double the current amount according to a 2011 report by CNN. Partially inspired by Jenkins and McCraney’s mothers’ struggles with addiction, Paula is a tragic reminder of the way crack cocaine infiltrated American communities and destroyed lives. Paula’s character, while difficult to like, forces us to consider how the world has failed her and other addicts like her, something we often forget to do in our
“‘Moonlight showed a perspective that many people are not used to,” Junior Coleman Reardon, said. “It made me want to tell other people to see it because I felt like it was an important story.” “Moonlight” addresses real issues unapologetically. Addiction, homophobia and mass incarceration are ongoing issues in our country that often they get swept under the rug. This film throws a harsh reality right in the faces of audiences and forces them to grapple with the issues that many people in America face every day.
society that demonizes drug addiction. This stage of Chrion’s life is also our first glimpse into the homophobic bullying he experiences throughout his adolescence. As a child, Chiron has yet to realize that he’s gay, but his peers begin to suspect that he is and hurl homophobic slurs at him. As a teenager, he continues to be bullied. For example, after his first romantic experience with another classmate named Kevin, Chiron is beaten up by Kevin and Terrel, a bully, after Terrel questions Kevin about his relationship with Chiron. It is a painful experience that rings all too familiar for LGBT youth. According to the Center for Disease Control, LGBT students are more likely than heterosexual students to experience intense bullying and homophobic victimization. Later, Chiron retaliates against Terrel’s harassment and breaks a chair over his back, an incident which lands him in jail. It’s a punishment reflective of the “school-to-prison pipeline,” a
A LOOK AT THE REAL-LIFE CHIRON Professor Tarell Alvin McCraney, originally from Miami’s Liberty City, has been teaching theater and civic engagement at the University of Miami since 2015. In 2016, McCraney cowrote Moonlight, a movie based on his semiautobiographical play, “In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue.” McCraney wrote the play at 22 after his mother died of AIDS. Ten years later, the script came across the desk of Barry Jenkins, who was also from Liberty City. Through this collaboration, McCraney’s play found the stage. The rest, as they say, is history. 30 DISTRACTION
À La Arts
words_teddy willson. photo_sidney sherman. design_ allie pakrosnis & jamie shub.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 31
et’s face it – few things pair more wonderfully than a great movie and a delectable treat. Watching a film just doesn’t feel right without something delicious to munch on. Usually at the movies, it’s practically impossible to buy a treat from the concessions without cringing at the huge hole left in your pocket. Don’t worry, we have just what you need to satisfy those cravings and make your taste buds sing. Without further ado, the best do-it-yourself movie snacks.
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature 1/3 cup light brown sugar 1 pinch salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup powdered sugar 3/4 cup chocolate chips Instructions: 1. Using a stand mixer (or a hand mixer and small bowl) Add butter and cream cheese to a bowl and beat at medium speed for about two minutes. 2. Drop mixer speed to low and add in brown sugar, salt, vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Mix until thoroughly combined. 3. Fold in chocolate chips with a spatula or spoon until the chips are evenly dispersed. 4. Serve immediately with graham crackers, pretzels, cookies or other snack food.
Ingredients: 1 box Lucky Charms cereal 6 cups pretzel sticks 8 oz. white chocolate baking bars 1 9 ounce bag of M&M’s 1/4 cup colored sprinkles Instructions: 1. Pour box of cereal out onto a large baking sheet and pick out all marshmallows. 2. Mix the pretzels, M&M’s and marshmallows together in a large bowl. 3. Microwave white chocolate chips for about two minutes in a medium-sized bowl, stirring every 30 seconds, until the chips are completely melted. Pour this over the mixture in the large bowl and toss until evenly coated. 4. Spread mixture in single layer on baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle with candy sprinkles. 5. Let stand until set for about 15 minutes.
32 DISTRACTION
À La Arts
Ingredients: 4 cups Chex cereal 8 ounces white chocolate chips 2 tablespoons butter 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon butter extract 3/4 cup powdered sugar 3/4 cup white cake mix 1 cup rainbow sprinkles 1 gallon-sized bag Instructions: 1. Pour cereal into large bowl. 2. Add powdered sugar and cake mix to gallon-sized plastic bag. 3. Heat chocolate, butter and extracts on low heat until melted, stirring constantly. 4. Pour chocolate mixture over cereal, mixing for about three minutes, being careful not to break the cereal pieces. 5. Add sprinkles to mixture and stir. 6. Pour cereal into the gallon-sized bag and shake until coated in sugar.
Ingredients: 10 cups popped popcorn 3 tablespoons butter (sweet cream, salted) 3 cups mini marshmallows 1 bag Mini oreo cookies Instructions: 1. Melt three tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan. 2. Add three cups of mini marshmallows. 3. Stir until the marshmallows are melted. Turn off the heat as soon as every marshmallow has melted. 4. Break apart some of the Mini Oreos. 5. Toss the Oreo pieces in with the popcorn. 6. Slowly pour the marshmallow mixture over the popcorn and the Oreo Cookie pieces. 7. Pour the Oreo Cookie Popcorn onto a cookie sheet covered with foil. 8. Add a few more whole Mini Oreo cookies.
Ingredients: 30 unbroken salted potato chips 1 bag (12 ounces) chocolate chips 1/2 cup sprinkles Instructions: 1. Melt chocolate chips over medium-low heat using a double boiler. Heat until smooth. 2. Dip one potato chip at a time into the melted chocolate, using a small spoon to help glide the chocolate over the entire chip. 3. Place chocolate covered potato chip onto wax paper. Repeat. 4. Add sprinkles and let chocolate harden.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 33
The Design District is known for its unique aesthetic. Locals and tourists alike visit to view the installations and outdoor sculptures.
34 DISTRACTION
Ă€ La Arts
MIAMI by DESIGN words_teddy willson. photo_hunter crenian. design_heidi lemon.
Miami prides itself on its diversity and eccentricity –nowhere is this clearer than in Miami’s art. Miami’s artistic richness is due in part to its vibrant history and different neighborhoods’ willingness to innovate. These neighborhoods of Miami are known for their unique styles that combine to make a magnificent city.
A no-doubt, must-experience part of the city is spread out over a few blocks just north of downtown Miami. You either know Wynwood from your Instagram feed, the events held there, or simple word of mouth: it’s just that amazing. Wynwood has it all: art, food and music. The area is bustling day and night, attracting all kinds of crowds. There are the hippies, the grunge-punk personalities, the enthusiastic tourists and, of course, the basics (don’t feel bad, we understand the need for a 10/10 photo, too). The Wynwood Walls is a street art haven, an open concept, outdoor museum with mural-covered walls, a garden area and an indoor gallery and studio. Most of the Walls’ murals change throughout the year, with a new theme and new artists invited to display their work. Though each year presents a new overall concept, the artwork is always avant-garde, as street art often is. Street art is especially organic and effortlessly earnest, yet not at all familiar to the viewer. Onlookers find themselves staring at the artwork, running interpretations through their heads until finally having that “Aha!” moment. It’s in that moment that visitors feel as though they are staring at the artwork with fresh eyes and a brain brimming with artistic inspiration.
The Miami Design District came to life 15 years ago with one goal in mind: the neighborhood would embody the unity of design, art, fashion and architecture, all the while encouraging creativity and innovation. The sleek modernism of the precinct indicates the forwardlooking and enterprising goals of the neighborhood and its patrons. Initially, the redeveloped neighborhood attracted design showrooms led by prominent names. It was only natural that art galleries, exhibition spaces and museums came next. Each are home to fine works of art featuring everything from realism and photography to abstract and interpretive artwork. A special aspect of the Design District is that it is not necessary to enter the galleries to see the artwork. Sculptures, murals and intricate architectural pieces are incorporated throughout the vicinity. The Design District runs on the idea that art should be defined in the broadest sense of the word. Here, art also extends into the fashion and culinary realms. Some of the most successful high-end fashion designers have shops in the district and local culinary chefs create masterpieces of their own. A love for the captivating and intriguing is made tangible though the district’s display of artistic genius.
Miami Beach is home to one of Miami’s hottest destinations: South Beach. South Beach, and the greater area of Miami Beach, is known for the architectural style of Art Deco. Art Deco originated in 1920s Paris before it spread worldwide throughout the ‘30s and ‘40s. Art Deco manifested from the balance of industrial innovation of the time with an appreciation of decorative arts. Most of the buildings constructed in Miami Beach during this second wave ardently emulate an eye-catching, eccentric design. Even a short stroll along Ocean Drive or Collins Avenue engrosses walkers in all things Art Deco, from neon lighting and porthole windows to the juxtaposed ziggurat rooflines and sweeping curvature. Art Deco can also be characterized by its affinity for symmetry and emphasis on the vertical. Though most imagine a building’s exterior when considering Art Deco, there are certainly interior staples that coincide with the style. Interiors continue the unique vibe of the design through the use of glass block or acrylic furniture, chandeliers and geometric patterns. In classic Miami fashion, Miami Beach Art Deco goes above and beyond the standard. A tropical flare plays into this area’s style through pastel palettes and nautical nuances. Typical Floridian hallmarks are often incorporated into the design through the addition of waves, palm trees, sea life, coconuts and flamingos. This divergence from the usual Art Deco style is what makes Miami Beach really stand out to art lovers, locals and tourists. After all, who doesn’t love a good reminder that you’re in a city where it’s practically summer all year long? May 2017 DISTRACTION 35
Acai bowls are typically topped with berries and other fruits. They’re popular for their energy-boosting and antioxident properties.
36 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
words_ maria hernandez. photo_sidney sherman. design_asmae fahmy. illustration_ana gonzales.
What started as a dish eaten on the shores of Brazil has now become a popular health craze worldwide. An acai bowl is a thick smoothie with a colorful variety of add ins. Today, acai bowls can be found in Miami on almost every corner. However, for those days where you’re just too tired to make the trip, we have a quick and easy recipe for you to make at home.
INGREDIENTS 2 packs frozen acai 3 bananas 4 tablespoons rice milk (can be replaced with milk, or any milk alternative) 2 tablespoons almond butter (optional) 2 teaspoons coconut oil 4 tablespoons unsweet coconut flakes (optional) 1/3 cup granola 1/2 cup strawberries 1/4 cup blueberries 1/4 cup raspberries 1 teaspoon honey
FRUIT WITH A PUNCH If cooking isn’t your thing, don’t fret. From coconut to chocolate to pineapple bowls, Miami is filled with spots that serve some of the most delicious bowls in the game. The best part is that you can still customize them to your specific tastes.
DIRECTIONS 1. In a blender, mix the frozen acai berries, two bananas, rice milk and almond butter until the mixture is fully smooth. 2. In a saucepan on medium/low heat, melt coconut oil with coconut flakes until browned. 3. Serve the puree mix on a bowl and garnish as desired with coconut flakes, granola, strawberries, blueberries, bananas and raspberries. 4. Drizzle honey on top.
GREENLIFE ORGANIC BISTRO 104 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables
UNDER THE MANGO TREE 714 Sixth Street, Miami Beach
SWEET BLENDZ University of Miami Farmer’s Market
GREEN BERRY 305 Alcazar Avenue #1, Coral Gables
COLD. PRESSED. RAW. 185 S.E. 13th St., Miami
PURA VIDA 110 Washington Avenue #2, Miami Beach
May 2017 DISTRACTION 37
words_patricia santana & stephanie stadler. photo_hunter crenian. design_jamie shub.
Different forms of extreme sports have been around for thousands of years. From the earliest version of skiing in ancient Russia and China to the advent of surfing in Polynesian cultures in the 1700s, humans are always looking to find the next big thrill. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that what we would normally think of as extreme sports, like parkour and BMX racing, became mainstream. Since then, these sports have attracted millions of participants, with the numbers significantly increasing every year.
38 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
Street skateboarding is the more common image of skateboarding. It places an emphasis on utilizing one’s surroundings to skate.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 39
Skateboarding is one of the riskiest extreme sports. It accounts for approximately 50,000 emergency department visits each year in the United States.
Skateboarding is an extreme sport that’s often overlooked. While the sport tends to be associated with fellow students trying not to mow others over as they skateboard from class to class, skateboarding is much more than a leisurely activity. There are two distinct branches of skateboarding: vert and street skateboarding. Vert skateboarding is the more common image of competitive skating, focusing on performing spins, flips and other kinds of tricks on vert ramps, also known as halfpipes. Vert skateboarding is the style of skating usually seen at extreme sports competitions. Meanwhile, street skateboarding places an emphasis on skating in public places and utilizing one’s surroundings to perform tricks: Picture a typical Hollywood movie scene with a skateboarder grinding down a handrail. This is the kind of skateboarding preferred by UM alumnus Justin Fairhurst, who appreciates the challenge of a bumpy terrain. “I like the freedom of not being restricted to one particular space,” Fairhurst said. According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, skateboarding is incredibly risky. Compared to athletes in six other extreme sports, including snowboarding and mountain biking, skateboarders suffer the most injuries. “Injury prevention is done by learning from your mistakes and learning how to fall properly when a mistake is made,” Fairhurst said.
Fairhurst learned this the hard way after fracturing a rib in late 2014. He explained that the best things to do when falling are to roll when hitting the ground to position yourself in such a way that your muscle tissue, not your bones, absorbs the impact. “I like skateboarding because of the ability to jump on and off the board while around a cityscape,” Fairhurst said. “There is also an extreme element to it that excites me and makes me feel very alive.”
There are several kinds of skydiving training to choose from, from tandem skydiving for those who feel more comfortable jumping while attached to an instructor, to accelerated freefalling for those want the fastest progression to freefalling solo. For Gary Glinski, a 45-year-old New York native, skydiving is one of the biggest rushes he’s ever experienced. “The first time that you do it, it’s a big rush and it’s a lot to take in,” Glinski said. “Anyone who’s thinking about trying skydiving should absolutely try it.” At the peak of his involvement, Glinski would go skydiving two to three times during the summer. Glinski describes the feeling as nothing but sheer excitement and says the trick is knowing how to judge the wind and control the fall.
40 DISTRACTION Health & Wellness
So much more than what we’ve seen in the “Step Up” movie series, breakdancing, also known as breaking, b-girling, or b-boying, is a street dance style that requires a tremendous amount of athleticism. Even the most basic concepts of a breakdancing routine are physically demanding. Toprock, which refers to any series of steps completed from a standing point, relies on both coordination and flexibility. Downrock, which is when a break dancer uses footwork combinations, focuses on speed and control. Power-moves, such as handstands and dropping on your back or stomach, hinge on building up momentum. Breakdancing, however, isn’t strictly for hip-hop enthusiasts – some snippets of break dances can be found in gymnastics, disco and even the jitterbug. UM junior Eli Furman, a member of KAOS, UM’s hip-hop dance team, is a break dancer who comes from both a gymnastics and hip-hop background. Because of that, a lot of the moves were easy for him, he said. Furman started breakdancing when he was 13 years old and joined a breakdance crew under the mentorship of his friend. One of the highlights of his time with the crew was when he competed in his first formally organized breakdancing battle. While Furman no longer breakdances as often as he used to, he still appreciates having it in his repertoire and likes to show off his skills during KAOS’s showcases. “It’s an activity that has had a large impact of on my life,” Furman said.
Greg Blachly is seen back-flipping, a common parkour stunt. Parkour often emphasizes acrobatic ability.
One of the more popular extreme sports is parkour, which the World Freerunning & Parkour Federation defines as, “the act of moving from point ‘A’ to point ‘B’ while using obstacles along the way to increase your efficiency.” The most common image of parkour is of dazzling acrobatics like someone jumping from roof-to-roof or flipping his or her way down a street. This is an image reminiscent of the philosophy held by one of the founding fathers of parkour, Sebastien Foucan, who emphasized creativity in moving around, drawing influences from disciplines such as martial arts. However, for UM senior Santiago Massa, parkour is about more than showmanship. For Massa, parkour is a way of becoming stronger, as well as a part of his ninja training for “American Ninja Warrior,” a televised extreme sports competition. A fan of pushing his body, Massa’s ninja training is the perfect combination of everything he loves, from parkour to martial arts to rock climbing. “Parkour is all about fluid motion: It’s a lot of running, working on somersaults and big jumps, jumping up and over obstacles,” Massa said. Additionally, Massa practices yoga to improve his flexibility and range of motion, which are key components in parkour. However, parkour and ninja training are not without their risks. Overcoming his own injuries has helped Massa listen to his body. Even so, the risks haven’t deterred him from moving forward with his training. “The main reason I stick with it is because it’s the one time I truly feel I’m pushing my body to its limit,” he said. “I feel my strongest.”
MIAMI’S PARKOUR HOTSPOTS Can’t wait any longer to start developing those parkour skills? Distraction found some of Miami’s best places to learn straight from the daredevils themselves.
PARKOUR IS ALL ABOUT FLUID MOTION: IT’S A LOT OF RUNNING, WORKING ON SOMERSAULTS AND BIG JUMPS, JUMPING UP AND OVER OBSTACLES.
FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY 11200 S.W. EIGHTH ST., MIAMI
TROPICAL PARK 7900 S.W. 40TH ST., MIAMI NINJA LOUNGE 14401 N.E. 20TH LANE, NORTH MIAMI
MIAMI FREERUNNING AND PARKOUR ACADEMY 8284 N.W. 66TH ST., MIAMI JOSE MARTI PARK 351 S.W. FOURTH AVENUE, MIAMI May 2017 DISTRACTION 41
Ace your look with upscale athleisure. Up your outfit game by pairing an athletic tracksuit with chic sneakers or heels for an understated, yet cool look. Brands such as Adidas, Nike and Stussy are our favorite picks for a head-to-toe look that always works out. On Asia: Sunglasses, House of Holland; sports bra, Gaiam Iris; coat & pants, The Edit By Seventeen; shoes, Sam Edelman; racquet, Wilson.
photo_sidney sherman. design_asmae fahmy, allie pakrosnis & jamie shub. styling_jade simmons, lauren gimpel & shellie frai. models_asia taylor, kristion matas, michelle seleme & joseph leon. hair & makeup_alex eisman.
42 DISTRACTION Fashion
On Brynne: bright green bikini, Zingara; blue scarf, vintage. On Obi: green boardshorts, Tommy Bahama.
Trade your winter coats for high fashion cover-ups and your boots for bare feet because December in Miami is hot. Stay on trend by playing with bold prints and colors paired with fun jewelry and sunglasses. Here, swimwear is never out-of-season.
photo_valentina escotet. design_allie pakrosnis, asmae fahmy,jamie shub & valentina escotet. styling_jade simmons, lauren gimpel & vivian braga. models_brynne sullivan, emily berkowitz, michael harding, obi okolo & vedasta malley. hair & makeup_ellery jones. May 2017 DISTRACTION 43
On Michelle: Sports bra, Adidas; pants, Adidas; heels, Michael Kors.
44 DISTRACTION Fashion
On Kristion: Shorts, Nike; shoes, Jordans; racquet, Slazenger.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 45
46 DISTRACTION Fashion
On Asia: Dress, nike; shoes, Nike Huarache; choker, Aldo; sunglasses, LF; racquet, Wilson. On Michelle: Headbands, Amazon; sunglasses, Aldo; sports bra, Nike; shorts, Gap; shoes, Adidas.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 47
On Michelle: top, Dayabyzendaya; skirt, Zara; racquet, Slazenger.
On Joseph: Shirt, Stussy; joggers, Forever 21; shoes, Nike; racquet, Slazenger.
48 DISTRACTION Fashion
Previous Page On Joseph: Shirt, Adidas; shorts, Adidas; jacket, Adidas; socks, Nike; shoes, Nike; racquet, Slazenger. On Kristion: Jacket, Forever 21; shorts, Forever 21; socks, Nike; shoes, Nike; racquet, slazenger. On Michelle: Sunglasses, Aldo; sports bra, Nike; shorts, Gap; shoes, Adidas. On Asia: Visor, model’s own; choker, Aldo; dress, Nike; shoes, Nike; racquet, Wilson. Current Page On Asia: Visor, Adidas; bodysuit, Zara; pants, Macy’s; shoes, Adidas. On Michelle: Sunglasses, Aldo; top, Chassé; skirt, Adidas; shoes, Adidas.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 49
On Kristion: Jacket, Adidas; pants, Adidas; shoes, Adidas; racquet, Slazenger. On Michelle: Sports bra, Adidas; jacket, Adidas; pants, Adidas; shoes, Michael Kors; racquet, Slazenger; sunglasses, Kate Spade.
50 DISTRACTION Fashion
On the words, photo & design_olivia stauber.
Makeup does not mean that everything should be pretty and pink. Opulent metals and smudged liner say “don’t mess with me” and give off an edgy vibe. Don’t be afraid to go with as much shine as you can. Apply the main color to your lid, and put a highlight color such as copper in the inner waterline of your eye.
On the Model: Dior Flash Foundation, $62; Benefit Hoola Bronzer, $15; Anastasia Beverly Hills Illuminator, $28; Too Faced Half Baked Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Palette, $49; Kylie Jenner Matte Lipstick in Candy K, $29.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 51
I’M GOING
words_marissa vonesh, gabriella turchet & mukta vibhute. photo_sidney sherman. design_allie pakrosnis. ilustration_abhinav chatterjee.
52 DISTRACTION Main Event
ccording to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there are seven species of bees on the endangered species list. In 2016, the U.S. lost 49,840 bee colonies, according to the 2016 U.S. Department of Agriculture Honey Bee Colony Report. The cause of this decline in population is not confirmed. However, scientists have proposed a few theories, two of which include pesticide use and climate change.
With regards to pesticides, scientists are mostly concerned with neonicotinoids, a new type of pesticide that attacks the nervous system of insects who come into contact with treated crops, eventually debilitating the insects completely. “Neonicotinoids are just another piece of the pesticide puzzle ... We are using it everywhere, it is one of the pesticides
we buy and put in our fields,” said Teddy L’Houtellier, the sustainability manager for Green U, an educational sustainability-focused organization on campus. L’Houtellier, who has a master’s degree in environmental science from Florida State University, is mainly concerned with people’s increasing need for pesticides in order to maintain their residential landscapes. L’Houtellier argues that the well-groomed fields people desire are not plausible without chemical intervention. People must use more fertilizers and pesticides
THE PLANTS THAT ARE DEPENDENT ON POLLINATION HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO GO EXTINCT. to cultivate their yards, killing bees and other pollinators in the process, L’Houtellier said. In addition to the neonicotinoids, researchers have predicted that changing global temperatures and habitat loss are also contributing to the decrease in bee colonies. In a study done at the University of Ottawa, researchers found that plants and their pollinators are not adapting to climate change in the same way, disrupting a critical relationship between species. Geographical ranges are expanding toward the poles in response to changing temperatures and many plants and pollinators are following suit: However, not all pollinators have
the same ability to adjust. Although some, such as butterflies, have begun to migrate, researchers suggest that bees have trouble adapting to a new place. The decline in the bee population can lead to noticeable effects for humans. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, 75 percent of the world’s food crops depend in part on pollination. With the steady decline of the bee population, humans may see effects in their grocery stores. Bees help to pollinate crops we love, including avocados, almonds, apples and cherries, to name a few. “The plants that are dependent on pollination have the potential to go extinct if there are no other pollinators available to take the place of the honeybee,” said Constance Cranford, a South Florida hobbyist beekeeper. “This will dramatically impact the world’s economy.” Cranford, motivated by her background in aquatic ecology, recently acquired a new interest in bees and developed the hobby of beekeeping. Her particular interest in bees and her observation of their complex relationships has driven her to understand their immense role in the ecosystem and in food sourcing. Constant says not only will people be at risk of malnutrition, but the decrease in crops will influence the world’s economy. The decline of availability of these crops would lead to higher prices on the shelves of your local store. “High colony losses are reflected in higher food prices … Losses are also reflected in high honey prices, and those prices have doubled since 2006,” said Jake Beck, a senior studying economics and ecosystem science and policy. Beck is currently researching the annual loss of honeybees with Dr. Gary Hitchcock,
May 2017 DISTRACTION 53
a marine biology professor at the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. According to BeeInformed, a research group supported by the USDA, the annual death rate of bees is increasing. Between 2015 and 2016 alone, American beekeepers lost 44 percent of their bees. The loss of honeybees means the foreboding future of decreased crops is within our reach. “We are happy to see that losses [of bee colonies] in Florida are below those nationally, but concerned that they remain above what is considered sustainable,” Beck said. Although the decrease of honeybees in the state of Florida is not as alarming as the national decrease, it is important to note that other species of bees are decreasing in population. “It is estimated that there are around 400 species of wild bees in Florida, and 4,000 worldwide,” Beck said. “Of these, a number of species are endangered, threatened, or facing extinction, largely due to habitat loss and lack of flowers.” Ultimately, besides the loss of crops, the decrease in bee populations means a greater financial burden for many beekeepers. This burden has led to a decrease in the business, which has further lead to an increase in the price of organic produce. Only time will tell what these declining patterns will have on the food chain, the ecosystem, commercial beekeepers and the international economy, Beck said. There is some good news though. Even if you’re not a beekeeper, there are
54 DISTRACTION Main Event
several things you can do to help the bees. For one, you can start your own garden. Even if it’s a tiny box outside your apartment or half of your backyard, every plant makes a difference. Those with a green thumb can register their space to be included on the Pollinator Partnership database, a community of those determined to support the bee population through the creation of pollinator habitats. Another great way to help is to be on the lookout for local raw honey, as well as organic fruits and vegetables. The perfect place to
TO SAVE THE BEES, WE NEED TO PAY MORE ATTENTION TO THEIR HABITATS AND TO WHAT CHEMICALS ARE BEING USED. find these items is your local farmer’s market. Buying local products means the food is seasonally grown and is not from a monoculture. By purchasing these products, you support beekeepers, while satisfying your own taste buds and health from the lack of chemicals. Besides direct action, education can be a powerful tool to save the future of bee populations. “The best way we can contribute to the well-being of honeybees is to stay educated and aware of the status of our pollinators, as well as by supporting policies that support honeybees,” Beck said. Giving back to the bee community oftentimes means
educating yourself and replacing current pesticides with less harmful ones, or avoiding them altogether. Another important lesson to understand is that bees are not out to hurt you. Bees are vegetarians, which means all they want to do is grab pollen and nectar from flowers and continue with their busy day. “Bees are typically a lot calmer that most people think,” Cranford said. “They do not go out of their way to hurt you.” Green U and UM’s community are also getting involved with helping the bees. Green U is planning on addressing the issue through organic management. “We are going to expand the organic management with more trees and more gardens,” L’Houtellier said. “Within the garden, we want a butterfly garden and vegetable garden. Everything will be organic and then we should not have any problems for the bees or their population rate in the local area.” With this sustainability action plan in mind, Green U is working on other methods to increase organic management on the Coral Gables campus by more than five percent over the next three years. Saving the bees isn’t as hard as it looks – it all starts with awareness. Know what factors in your life they affect. Your impact on bees and their natural pollination process starts by becoming aware of the environment and making conscious decisions about actions that could potentially affect the bees and their fragile status on earth. To save the bees, we need to pay more attention to their habitats and to what chemicals are being used in our landscapes. Bees are crucial to the environment and if their disappearance persists, a long chain of consequences will occur that will eventually determine what goes in our daily diets. Give a buzz about the bees and find ways to allow them to flourish for the years to come.
You can help the bees from your very own backard by planting these flowers.
EARLY SUMMER: Pale Purple Coneflower Echinacea pallida, perennial Common Yarrow Achillea millefolium, perennial
MID-SUMMER Sunflower Helianthus annuus Blue Giant Hyssop Agastache foeniculum Horsemint Monarda punctata Black Eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta
May 2017 DISTRACTION 55
MODERN
words_olivia stauber. design_jamie shub. illustration_ana gonzales.
America was founded on the idea of opportunity and the notion that anyone could work his or her way up from nothing. In fact, in the foundation of our nation, there was a strong rejection of a royal family. This helped our founding fathers decide what they wanted in a country – a sovereign nation ruled by the people. Despite this independence, there has still been a strong history of dynastic families influencing American society. From the Clintons to the Kennedys to the Rockefellers, the U.S. has seen its share of American royalty. What unites these royal families of America’s past is their backgrounds. They are media titans, oil barons and politicians.
56 DISTRACTION Main Event
ow, in 2017, we are seeing the emergence of a new type of royalty: the celebrity. The Jenners, the Hadids, Beyoncé and Jay Z, and the most important in all the land (to some, at least), the Kardashians. Celebrities are now involved in politics and social issues, they have even made a name in the world of high fashion. They are becoming multi-talented, multibusiness owning empires. Their influence is so pervasive that it may feel like our world is ruled more and more often by the same few families. One of the most established families to become its own celebrity dynasty is the Kardashians. The family is made up of the “momager” Kris Kardashian, and the siblings Kim, Khloe, Kourtney, Rob, Kendall and Kylie. The members of the family have mainly become prominent through their show, “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.” While the show may be how they really started, all of the sisters have started their own side businesses. The older sisters Kim, Khloe and Kourtney established DASH boutique, which is located in both New York and Miami. Kendall has taken the fashion world by storm with her modeling career, Khloe has recently launched a denim company, Good American, and Kylie has branched out into her own cosmetics line, Kylie Cosmetics, which can barely keep its inventory stocked because of its popularity. Yes, this family has had many successful businesses, but it is just one of the many keys to the successes that make them a modern day dynasty. The uniquely modern task that the
Kardashians and others must do to cultivate this high status is to develop their brand recognition. They brand themselves as people to watch who are all knowing, who somehow have everything and are the people we all secretly want to be. “I follow Kim the most because I love her style and I love her personality. A lot of people hate on her but she’s such a business women and an entrepreneur and I admire how powerful and confident she is,” sophomore Stephanie Longmuir said. Having brand recognition puts someone at a large advantage in a number of prospects. In politics, running for office requires a lot more money than it has in the past, according to the Federal Election Commission. Because of this, candidates who already
IT’S EMBEDDED IN HUMAN NATURE TO BECOME ATTACHED TO FAMILIES IN THIS MANNER, TO LOOK UP TO SOMEONE AND TO COMPARE. have a place built into the government and access to fundraisers and lobbyists run generally for positions. The Clinton family knows every wealthy Democrat in Washington and the Bush family has every wealthy Republican on speed dial. This brand recognition seems to be influencing our politics nowadays, but it is the same brand recognition that leads to the success of other families in various industries. While the Kardashians were the first celebrity family of their kind to gain such strong brand recognition,
others such as Beyoncé and her family and the Hadids have made their own type of royal fame. Brand recognition means you hear a name and immediately associate it with something or someone. You think Beyoncé and you instantly associate her with music, art, fame, Jay Z – who is a phenomenon of his own – and her baby, Blue Ivy. Though Beyoncé doesn’t have a show baring her life, she is incredibly honest in her music. Especially after her most recent album, the intensely personal “Lemonade,” which dealt with Beyoncé’s domestic disputes, and allowed the world to feel closer to her, as if they knew her struggles intimately. Then there are the Hadids. They may just be emerging in the fashion world but the family dynamic seems to mimic that of the Kardashians, and all members – Anwar, Bella, Gigi, and the mother Yolanda – are very open and honest in their own social media accounts. It’s this vulnerable attitude about personal issues that contribute to the reasoning behind people’s fascination with them. It is in human nature to look at others lives. Maybe for some, the fascination is with the drama occuring in these families. Either way, it’s embedded in human nature to become attached to families in this manner. What seems to be escalating now, however, is the reach these celebrity families have. People have gravitated towards them so much that they follow what they do in numerous aspects: what to buy, what causes to support, what to eat, how to look and even who to vote for. For example, according to a study done at the University of Maryland, Oprah Winfrey’s celebrity endorsement of Obama in the 2008 presidential election helped him secure one million votes. Sometimes we all need people to look up to, to aspire to be or live like. Maybe it’s for the better, and maybe it’s not. They can lend their voice to a cause, but it’s not their voice that makes the final decision. At the end of the day, these celebrities are not the Clintons, Kate Middleton, Prince William or the Rockefellers. At the end of the day, we are the ones who decide how powerful they can be. At the end of the day, their power comes from us.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 57
55 percent of human trafficking cases involve the sex trade. The average age for victims who enter the sex trade ranges from 12 to 14-years-old.
58 DISTRACTION Main Event
words_marissa vonesh. photo_sidney sherman. design_alexa aguilar & allie pakrosnis.
He kisses her softly on her forehead, his hands pulling at her hips. Her arm, decorated with a fresh tattoo and a new Cartier bracelet, reluctantly hands over a wad of money. Thirty dollars, it isn’t enough. Her cheek goes numb – another blow to match the patch of bruises on her leg. She stumbles back, grabbing her face. May 2017 DISTRACTION 59
hat’s how the scenario typically escalates. The way a person falls victim to human trafficking in the first place, though, is often less overt. She could have just left home, looking for a refuge, for someone to take care of her. At first, he would have done just that – whispering promises of a stable home and a good job, bringing her gifts. She would be happy thinking she had someone who loved her. But, shortly after, things would inevitably change. He would ask her to do things she didn’t want to do, mainly to be sexual with other men, and she would comply because it was for him. He loved her and she loved him – that’s what she would tell herself. The abuse would follow, then the drugs. When she couldn’t bring in enough money for a day’s worth of pay, she would face the consequences in the form of balled fists and boot-heels. She would gain nothing and, if anything, she would be worse off than she would have been had she not left her home all those years ago. His promises to her would never be fulfilled, and her future would only extend as far as the next customer; the door to her escape seemingly closed forever. Women like her are not alone. 4.5 million people around the world are forced into sexual exploitation, according to the International Labor Organization. In the United States specifically, Florida is ranked as the third state in the country for cases of sex trafficking. Even closer to home, Miami has the second highest volume of cases out of all American cities, and thus far, nothing has been done to effectively curb this dire situation. In fact, instances of sexual exploitation continue to rise, according to the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office. Sex trafficking is defined by the U.S. Department of State as the “recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision or obtaining of a person for a commercial sex act,” meaning commercial sexual exploitation is more than prostitution alone. It includes everything from pornography and erotic massages to phone sex and internet-based exploitation. Anyone can be a victim of sex trafficking – citizens, foreign nationals, men, women, children and members of the LGBT community. Namely, women are the most likely to be the marginalized victims, according to the Polaris Project, a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization that combats human trafficking. The organization reports that 95 percent of U.S. citizens involved in sex trafficking are female. Vulnerable populations are targeted, such as runaway youth and victims of sexual assault. In fact, according to the National Incidence Studies of Missing, Abducted, Runaway and Throwaway Children, of the 1.6 million children
60 DISTRACTION Main Event
who run away from home each year, a third of them will be recruited by a pimp within 48 hours. These startling numbers mean that no one case can be treated the same as another. Each case of sex trafficking varies dramatically. In some instances, a victim is lured into the situation through romance and “grooming.” Traffickers will seduce their victims with lavish gifts, affection and promises of a stable home and financial situation to gain their trust and loyalty. In other cases, a victim may be promised a career in dancing or acting, be sold into the business by a parent or family member, or have a completely stable life and stumble upon a trafficking website based off of pure curiosity and be ensnared from there. Traffickers use violence, threats, lies, bondage, drugs and other forms of coercion to force the victims to engage in sexual activity, all of which have lasting damaging effects. Sometimes, however, the signs are not so clear. Sex trafficking can manifest in less obvious, yet still equally detrimental forms. “A woman may not be chained to a bed, but she is still a victim,” said Maria Harrington, the director of Project Gold. Harrington works on this program with Miami’s Kristi House, a center that provides care for girls who are victims of sexual abuse. The program functions as a drop-in center and provides services to girls who have been exploited in sex trafficking. After seeing over 350 victims, Harrington cautions against generalizing. “When we don’t see behind the smiles, we don’t see the abuse they are going through,” Harrington said. “It is easy to assume that girl is out there willingly.” Often, victims feel as though there is no way out of their new lifestyle or they are stuck in situations that would lead them to jail, such as drug abuse, Harrington said. A cycle is developed that can only be broken with tremendous bravery and determination, alongside the support of those external to the crisis. Harrington notes several risk factors, such as sexual or physical abuse, mental health and poverty, that would make a person more vulnerable to be trafficked; however, each case is different and anyone is at risk. The impact of sex trafficking manifests both emotionally and physically. Hypersexualization, anxiety, depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder are just a handful of the emotional impacts, while STDs, pregnancy, abuse, tattoos with a pimp’s name and substance abuse comprise only some of the
physical impacts. Victims are frequently asked to be sexual with numerous partners a day and are abused if they do not make enough money to satisfy their traffickers’ desires. The victims themselves receive a small portion of the money, if any at all. Even if victims are lucky enough to escape the sexual trafficking ring, their agony and strife do not immediately evaporate. The victims’ horrific experiences have lasting effects, which make rehabilitation an arduous process. Paranoia or discomfort with personal interaction contribute to the difficulty of recovery. At times, the attitudes of society as a whole can serve as yet another obstacle. Part of our culture glorifies sex trafficking, according to Harrington. “Our culture glamorizes sex and pimps; for example, we have shows like ‘Pimp My Ride,’” Harrington said. She also points to the influence of pornography, music videos and the lack of education in American culture as factors that contribute to the prevalence of sexual exploitation. The lack of seriousness surrounding this crime subsidizes the struggle of past, current and future victims by painting an image of an unsympathetic society. As students, education can be one of the most powerful tools in combating trafficking. Kyla Leonard, a University
OFTEN, VICTIMS FEEL AS THOUGH THERE IS NO WAY OUT OF THEIR NEW LIFESTYLE OR THEY ARE STUCK IN SITUATIONS THAT WOULD LEAD THEM TO JAIL. of Miami junior studying psychology, established the student organization Project Unchained to help combat sexual exploitation. Leonard developed the organization out of SPARK, a preexisting organization on campus that mentors young girls. “We were originally a site for mentoring [for SPARK] when we realized that our needs greatly outweighed the abilities of the club,” Leonard said. “We split off and began adding education and outreach as components to Project Unchained.” The student organization works with
According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, there were 1,892 reports of human trafficking in 2016. This represents a 54 percent increase in reports from 2015.
Project Gold and Kristi House to provide services to survivors, educate the campus and the greater Miami community, and assist in the eradication of human trafficking. “We hope that one day there will be no need for us,” Leonard said. “But until then we work to educate, advocate and mentor.” Leonard works with the same core group of girls on a regular basis in order to solidify her relationships with them and form an environment of trust and compassion. She also teaches the girls lessons on important topics, such as self-empowerment. These lessons teach the girls what they were never taught before, as their opportunity for a quality education was initially stripped away from them through sexual exploitation. “When you are with these girls and you see everything they have been through and everything they are trying to accomplish despite that, it’s just incredible,” Leonard said. “A lot of the student volunteers go in and they are shocked at how the girls talk and May 2017 DISTRACTION 61
Sex trafficking comprises the majority of human trafficking in Florida. The most commonly-used venues for sex trafficking in Florida are hotels and motels.
62 DISTRACTION Main Event
act because, even though they are 13 years old, they act like adults. They have tattoos, acid marks and other obvious signs of abuse and these things can be scary when you are first introduced, but then you get to know the person and none of that matters.” Although the girls Harrington and Leonard encounter have been through traumatic experiences, both Harrington and Leonard emphasize the victims’ normalcy, dreams and talents. “These girls are so so intelligent,” Leonard said. “They write poetry, they do art, they write stories and they would blow your mind. They have this incredible ability within themselves.” Sex trafficking is not the only form of modern slavery that exists. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (ONODC) identifies other forms of human trafficking aside from sexual exploitation including forced labor, organ removal, child soldiering, petty theft and begging. Globally, roughly 53 percent of human trafficking is in the form of sexual exploitation, 40 percent is forced labor and the remaining seven percent is a combination of organ removal, child soldiering and petty theft. Out of the detected global victims, 71 percent are female and 29 percent are male – of that, 28 percent are minors. In North America specifically – which UNODC classifies as the United States and Canada – 55 percent of trafficking cases are sexual, 39 percent are labor and six percent are petty theft or begging – in 60 percent of these cases, the victims are women. Human trafficking, according to The International Labor Organization (ILO), is a $150 billion industry worldwide – the second largest criminal industry in the world behind drug trafficking. The ILO identifies that, of this $150 billion, $99 billion is from commercial sexual exploitation, $34 billion is from construction, manufacturing or mining, $9 billion is from agriculture and $8 billion is saved by private households that employ domestic workers. The difficult process of identifying human trafficking and its influence is made even more challenging by the fact that there is no one standard way to identify victims and report information. Furthermore, though criminalization of victims – especially
in sexual exploitation cases, such as prostitution – is improving, in many instances victims are still prosecuted as criminals while their traffickers and exploiters escape unscathed. There is no way to fully know the mass scale of human trafficking because most of the cases will go unreported. For example, the National Human Trafficking Hotline, a resource established by the Polaris Project, has had a total of 145,764 signals and 31,659 proven cases of trafficking in the United States since 2007, but these numbers are just a fraction of the truth. The first step as an individual in addressing trafficking is education and understanding the risk factors and signs. Among the most common signs are anxious behavior, paranoia, avoidance of eye contact, malnourished appearance, signs of physical abuse and hypersexualization. “Knowing that it occurs everywhere is important,” Leonard said. “It may be expected in Miami, but it also happens in the suburbs.” Additionally, human trafficking can be fought by avoiding businesses that contribute to trafficking, such as the pornography and prostitution industries. Human trafficking is a business in and of itself, and if the demand decreases, so will the volume of cases. Human beings should not be a commodity to be bought and sold. No individual – child, adult, female or male – should be subjected to the emotional turmoil that derives from human trafficking. The spontaneous reversal from an all-accepting, all-indulgent home, to that of abuse and violence, evokes intense pain and leaves deep scars, both emotionally and physically. Upon returning home, people should not feel panic over the amount of money in their pocket, but joy over the amount of love with which they will be greeted. The impact that human trafficking has on its victims is immeasurable. But the degree to which we can fight this awful injustice is measurable. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1-888-373-7888.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 63
QUINTESSENTIAL
COLLEGE We wanted to capture the culture of the U, and what better way to do that than with photos of you? From beach days to tailgates to delicious treats, here are some of the most “quintessential college� submissions we got via email and social media. Submit yours to distraction@miami.edu to be featured in the next issue. words_ jasmine lapadula. design_ana gonzalez.
64 DISTRACTION Main Event
Marissa Vonesh and Reilly Cashmore enjoy the scenery of the Parc de MontjuĂŻc. The two visited Barcelona this past spring break. Photo by Ryan Donahue.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 65
2 1 3
1 David Nahum heads to the Okeechobee Music and Arts Festival. This is one of the many things students do while on Spring Break. Photo by Silvana Arguello-Morales. 2 Kate Cleary takes a boat day out to Key Biscayne. This is one of her favorite things to do while in Miami. Photo by Molly McHugh. 3 Anna Schaubeck and Claire Griffin take in the breathtaking sights of Florida’s underwater life. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is one of the many snorkeling destinations that Florida has to offer. Photo by Natalie Bryce. 4 Andrea Candelaria submerged herself in the magic of her first Broadway show during Spring Break. For a Disney fanatic, “Aladdin the Musical” is a must see. Photo by Amanda Candelaria.
66 DISTRACTION Main Event
4
5 6
7
8
9
5 Trea Harris and Dani Savage get a bite to eat while at Miami beach. Trea Harris assures us that pizza was delicious. Photo by Hannah King. 6 Elizabeth Pozzuoli and Caitlin Costa take a well-deserved trip to the beach after exams. There’s nothing like heading home to see a beautiful view during spring break. Photo by Gabi Dubilier. 7 Shereen Kahtibloo poses in front of her favorite painting while visiting the Louvre in Paris. Her dedicated sister made sure no one was around so she could get the perfect shot. Photo by Lailey Khatibloo. 8 Eddie Almeida heads to the Maryland for Winter Break. The MGM Hotel and Casino at the National Harbor is decorated like the perfect winter wonderland. Photo by Yolanda Almeida. 9 Emely Amaya has a great night at the Ocean Ten restaurant. The restaurant is one of many places to visit during spring break. Photo by Ari Riccio.
May 2017 DISTRACTION 67
1 2
5 3
1 Daniel Leeds heads to Poconos, Pennsylvania, to showcase this car in the MOTUL booth. He works with an engineering company that designs racing parts for 25 HR endurance race cars. Photo by Daniel Leeds. 2 Mak Bateman takes a banana boat ride while on his trip to Bayville, New Jersey. It’s one of the things he loves doing while on his trips back home. Photo by Mak Bateman. 3 Maria Buonopane and Emily Gerstein enjoy fresh cotton candy during a party. Nothing makes a party better than cotton candy. Photo by Christina Riccardi.
68 DISTRACTION Main Event
4
4 Flo Grace Akinola heads to the water while on her trip to Maho Airport Beach in St. Marteen. She relaxed while watching some of the planes land a few feet away from her. Photo by Flo Grace Akinola. 5 Rachel McCormick poses with a sea lion while on the Galapagos study abroad trip. Anyone who goes on the Galapagos trips say that it is the trip of their lifetime. Photo by Rachel McCormick.
ane
The Miami Hurric
e @MiamiHurrican
ricane @TheMiamiHur
Distraction Magazine @distractionmag @DistractionUM
Come out of your shell and apply to join the award-winning staff of distraction, the only completely student-run UM lifestyle magazine. We are hiring for the 2017-18 school year. If you enjoy writing, designing, illustrating, photography, blogging, video, sales, PR or free pizza, contact the incoming Editor-in-Chief, Marissa Vonesh, at mxv348@miami.edu. Anyone is welcome to contribute.