Viper Vibe Is the Student Newspaper of Felix Varela Senior High (15255 SW on the Front: Jason Cumello, the Administrator of Cedarbrook 96 St

20 il ' pr A / 3 e u s s i 9 1

. l o v WORLD WIDE CRISIS

Felix Varela Sr. High School * 15255 S.W. 96 St., Miami, FL 33196 bulletin board

The Coronavirus has struck and First run movies are coming out with school closures, distance early on TV. learning has become much harder than we imagined.

Next year, school may be start- Legends never die! Kobe Bryant ing about an hour later. More will be missed. sleep!

Hits and misses

Varela will be welcoming class- Next year, school may be ending es next year for E-Sports and about an hour later. Less time Drones! for jobs! Table of Contents | Viewpoints table of contents ViEWPOINTS Editorial...... 4 News volume 19 Viper News...... 5 Drama Production...... 6 April‘20 Bell Schedules...... 7 Staff Lounge...... 8 Epic Universal...... 9 Editors Vaping and Weed...... 10 Jonathan Bigio-Vargas The dangers of vaping and weed on Jose Donate the teenage brain and body. Natalia Fernandez Coronavirus...... 11 Karolyn Legra Maria Pacheco Kiana Paulino lifestyle Isabella Vallejo Jumanji...... 15 Gretel & Hansel...... 16 Reporters The classic Grimm's fairy tale l Isabella l Letisleidi gets a new twist. Cerioni Martinez More Movies...... 17 l Alexander l Mia Dominguez Rivera l Joshua l Katherine Escobedo Rodriguez l Isabella sports Londono Adviser Pro Sports...... 18 Elizabeth Cardenas Varela Sports...... 19 Check out the latest in Spring Sports. Editorial Policy The Viper Vibe is the student newspaper of Felix Varela Senior High (15255 SW On the Front: Jason Cumello, the administrator of Cedarbrook 96 St. Miami, FL, 33196). It is an open Senior Care & Rehab holds a N95 mask for staff use at the facility. forum for student expression. The opin- South Whitehall Township facility is taking care of their residents ions expressed in the publication do not and being proactive with disinfecting with Covid-19 spreading. photo with permission The Morning Call/TNS of the school. The Viper Vibe welcomes lettersreflect theto the official editor, opinions but requires or policies that Above: IA COVID-19 particle is pictured in this image provided by the Centers for they be signed and reserves the right Diseas Control and Prevention; File images of marijuana plants at the Ermont facility in Quincy. photo with permission TNS; Gretel and Hansel movie poster. photo courtesy of to reject, edit and condense letters. The staff and adviser can be contacted at photo by Best Photo Creations 305-752-7900 or thevipervibe@gmail. Orion Pictures; Boys Volleyball plays one of their final games against Coral Gables. com

Sponsorships The Viper Vibe welcomes sponsorships from individuals and businesses, but reserves the right to reject any material Your thoughts may be deemed inappropriate for a high school Talk to us: [email protected] featured in the next publication. issue of the Viper Vibe! http://issuu.com/thevipervibe 3 Viewpoints | Editorial

Now is not the time to panic Now is the time to be observant

Editorial

ith the Coronavirus reaching pandemic the disease, it may help boost the immune system status, it is important that we take it and lessen the symptoms. Healthline recommends Wseriously, but not panic. “It’s human to eating foods that make our immune system stron- be anxious,” Henry Ford Health System psycholo- ger such as garlic, yogurt, Vitamin C fruits (straw- gist Philip Lanzisera, Ph.D. said. “At the same time, berries, tomatoes, citrus fruits), leafy greens and there are lots of reasons not to be scared. Be rea- broccoli. Most importantly, we should drink a lot sonable and be cautious, but don’t be frightened.” The word pandemic does not refer to the virus’ tea, herbal tea and lemon tea with honey. deadliness, but how widespread it is. of water.Droplets For flavoring,from sneezes Healthline and coughs suggests can gingertravel As a school, there are things we can do to as far as six feet, so maintain your distance from limit our exposure to the virus (or any people who are sick. Stay home if you illnesses for that matter). For all of us Take care of can, doing virtual learning and binging to be safe, we need to wash our hands several times a day. And this doesn’t yourself before to watch. mean a quick rinse in the sink. We that NetflixThe most show important you’ve been thing wanting we should lather our hands for at least 20 you take care of here at The Viper Vibe can suggest is - not to panic. Technically, the common ually and the whole hand up to the others seconds, cleaning each finger individ- year. Coronavirus is just the worst ing your hands, open the door with a flu kills thousands of people every paperwrist. Oncetowel you or your have sleeve. finished If wewash sneeze or cough, need to hoard supplies. The world is not ending, we should cover our faces with our arm, not our we just needversion to be aware of the of common our surroundings flu. There isand no hands. what’s going on around us. We need to be aware Bleach doesn’t work as well as a sanitizer; of people who might be sick or infected and take use alcohol and products like Lysol to wipe down good care of ourselves. surfaces, especially those used by multiple people. As Dr. Phil says, “You have to take care of your- While Miami-Dade County Public Schools are self before you can take care of others.” closed, administration is taking this time to have The Florida Department of Health in Mi- custodians come in and completely disinfect ev- ami-Dade County has established a call center to erything with germicidal-Avistad D, a very power- address questions from the public. If you have ful disinfectant. questions about what is happening in Miami-Dade The National Health Council recommends County, how the virus is spread, and what to do if you have symptoms, please call 305-470-5660.

getting a flu shot. While it may not stop or cure

4 [email protected] Around Varela | News News HEADLINES AND HAPPENINGS February 14 February 20 Sr. Lunch Valentine's Roses

Valentine's Day fell on a Friday on Thursday Feb. 20, as students attend- this year and love was in the air with Theed the first Senior major Luncheon senior event where took seniors place roses and singing "telegrams." Student were transported to the Renaissance purchased different colored roses and Ballroom, ready to “Travel the World” Drama visited classrooms to sing to which was this year’s theme. recipients of sappy love songs. The day consisted of speeches from the students’ favorite staff, preview of the senior video, learning and watching a variety of ethnic dances, and plenty of good food making for an amazing day

a lifetime as the seniors embark on their fillednew adventures. with many memories that will last This year's Sr. Luncheon had students learning new dance moves. Tama's Polynesian Production entertained students and invited them to join along. Seniors also danced with treasurer Sharon Coleman who will be retiring this year. photos by Fox-Mar Students information gathered by Maria Pacheco purchased multi-colored roses for $1 to give to their loved ones. photo by E. Cardenas News | Around Varela Inside the Staff Lounge

What profession If heaven exists, what would you other than yours like to hear God say when you would you like to arrive at the pearly gates? attempt? “Come on in.” A sponsored triathlete

What inspires you? What is your favorite book? Driving myself to be better White Fang

Mr. John Why do you participate in the What is your favorite word? Stoltenborg Spartan Races? Mr. Stoltenborg is an Just to challenge myself, Perseverance English teacher currently teaching juniors. He keep myself healthy has been working for Miami-Dade County Public Schools for What is your What 31 years, 19 of which least What’s your favorite profession have been at Varela. favorite word? thing about other than yours Can’t competing? would you not What sound or noise like to What sound or do you love? Just bettering participate in? noise do you myself Old school music hate? Police Crying Officer

6 [email protected] These questions are based on the French television series Bouillon de Culture hosted by Bernard Pivot. Information gathered by Jose Donate and photo by J. Stoltenborg Around Varela | News Drama brings East High to Varela High Isabella Vallejo Everyone’s familiar with the good Editor old Disney’s High School Musical movie IG: asthxticbxlla series starring Zac Efron and Vanessa Hud- gens. The beloved series mixed catchy and easy to sing along songs with fun dances that have become iconic over the years and made the stars famous. Varela’s drama department decided to perform the stage production as its spring musical. East High was center stage March 11-13. Because of the high cost of Disney copyright, tickets were $10 each. Since it was a Disney original series, it was not an easy or cheap production. On average, to be able to recreate any Disney content costs thousands of dollars, which explains why tickets were on the pricey side. Luckily, the performances came in just before M-DCPS Superintendent Carvalho ordered the closing of schools due to the Coronavirus outbreak. In the past, Varela’s spring musical has used the school’s concert band to play its music. They decided to continue the The ensemble sings "We're All in This Together" for the Drama department's production of High tradition and perform live for the audience which gave it a School Musical, its spring musical. photo by Fox-Mar touch of originality. For the most part, the singing was good; however, I did feel the acting was better than the singing in this production. Also, sometimes, the music was too loud, overpowering the singers. Kimberly Castro (11), who played Taylor, said she found the hardest thing to do was project over the loud music. On top of that, there were times when commotion back- stage, presumably with costumes and sets, was loud enough performance on Friday night, I would have thought that the to be heard in the front. Since I went to the third and final The play followed the basic storyline put forth in the movie,crew with would only haveminor fixed changes that. in music and a few deleted scenes. One major point was the kiss at the end. The original movie movie. But they included it in the play. The Varela’s stagecraft was famous for the leads not kissing until the third and final Left: Kimberly Castro (11) plays Taylor McKessie and Eleny Reyes (12) plays Gabriella Montez; class created the set to look like East High’s cafeteria, hall- Right: Zachary Matute (12) and Oriana Marerrero (12) play brother and sister act Ryan and Shar- ways, classroom and rooftop. It was really well made and it pay Evans. photo by Fox-Mar gave the play a realistic touch. Overall, the drama department did a wonderful job of portrayal of Taylor was great. She did a really good job of performing, but definite kudos haveportraying to go out the to nerdy Castro charac whose- ter, and captured the sassy attitude that was evident with the character in the movie. I thought her singing was really good. While sound might have been an issue with much of the play, I thought the drama department did a good job and it was worth seeing.

Unlike the movie, main characters Gabriella (Reyes) and Troy (Umana) share a kiss at the Chris Umana (alumnus) plays Troy Bolton who leads his fellow basketball players in the song end of the play. photo by Fox-Mar "Getcha Head in the Game." photo by Fox-Mar http://issuu.com/thevipervibe 7 News | Around Miami Schedule changes coming to MDCPS By Kiana Paulino A new Spring Break at the same time ties are interesting Editor school because of the shear numbers and stimulating, [email protected] year of students. Dade and Bro- the urge to sleep always ward are the 5th and 6th larg- still reduces alert- brings changes: changes est counties, respectively, in ness, memory and in grade level, changes in the U.S. with a combined total understanding,” classes, changes in teach- of over 627,000 students. Add said James Maas, ers. However, next year, to that the numbers of college Ph.D.,CEO of the Miami-Dade County Public students that come to Florida American Sleep Schools (MDCPS) will see in the spring, and it can be- Association. county-wide changes in the come chaotic and unbearable On the other form of schedules. along the east coast. hand, many have Rsearch shows that students' urge to sleep reduces alertness in the morning making it Calendar Bell Schedules looked at the neg- harder to learn. photo by Kiana Paulino Along with the calendar atives of changing the calendar. Due to a late La- schedule changing, two new the start times. bor DayThe thisfirst year major and change the fact is bell schedules have been Parent work schedules could I have a veterinary internship that MDCPS always starts two proposed. Both proposals - andwould vet be clinics finishing usually later. close Since weeks before Labor Day, the have no schools at any level tation of their child. For start of the 2020-2021 school starting before 8 a.m., elim- example,conflict with parents the transpor who drop year will be roughly one week inating the traditional 7:20 their child off at school in the Iearly am required it would tobe have difficult since for later than it was this year. The high school start time. morning would have to pay Ime only to gomake two up times the fivea week,” hours good news is we will receive According to MDCPS, junior Manon Nicaise said. an extra week of summer the bell schedule change has work schedule. Additionally, Teachers along with break this year (11 weeks); been contemplated due to highfor transportation school students to whofit their students have concerns about the bad news is we won't end the health concerns of sleep pick up younger siblings from school until June 9, 2021. deprivation in teens. Research school would be released af- number of teachers have This one week shift has shown teens should be ter elementary schools let out secondstaying jobslater or and kids traffic. them A- threw off our entire calendar receiving 8½ - 9½ hours of leaving parents to possibly selves to pick up. In districts shifting almost every break sleep each night (SleepFoun- pay for after school care. where bell schedules have by a couple of days. Broward dation.org). Generally, most “I pick up my younger already changed, congestion County’s releasing of their teens fall asleep at 11 p.m. or sister right after school at has increased on roads due calendar ahead of ours dictat- later which leaves exactly 8 Claude Pepper Elementary, to commuting workers and ed the change of our Spring hours or less of sleep. if the bell schedule changes buses out at the same time Break being a week later as According to the Child then my parents would have (SleepFoundation.org). well. Instead of March 23-27, Mind Institute, sleep depriva- to pay for after school care “It is going to affect my break is now March 26 - April tion is linked to car accidents, since I would be released af- travel time a lot. I live over an 2. self-regulation, and behavior- ter her,” sophomore Milagros hour and half away, 35 miles Typically, Broward and al issues in teens. Teachers Paria said. from here in North Miami Dade counties don’t have and parents who support The adjustment of the Aventura,” VR teacher Michael the later bell schedules could also af- Sakowicz said. “I’m going start times fect students’ extracurricular to have to decide if I should focus on the activities such as clubs, sports come to the school at the improved and jobs. Since practice same time I do now and just behavior currently starts at 2:30 and and perfor- ends around 5:30, everything mance in would be shifted by about an changedo planning, and it's or goingfigure to if Icause can academics. hour or two, leaving students changemanage for the a traffic. lot of people It’s a big but “Trying to to get home later with no educate time for homework. Students me who lives very far just teenagers with jobs would have to lose definitely for someone like so early in an hour or two of pay since commuting with all the other the morn- minors can only work until 11 peoplebecause in of Miami.” the traffic and ing does no p.m. Proposed bell schedules good. Even “Personally I don’t like can be found on the MDCPS if lectures the idea of starting later website at http://belltimes. and activi- because it would mean we dadeschools.net/. Around Florida | News The future of Universal is Epic

Jose Donate Many would roller coaster, Universal Monsters show it opened in 1990. “Construction on the Editor consider Dis- and a Fantastic Beasts themed area. new park alone will contribute a total of [email protected] ney the king of According to Universal’s press $11.5 billion more.” Orlando with it’s release, besides the theme park, the Universal Orlando already contrib- four theme parks, two water parks and new 750-acre property will also feature utes to the community with its parks one shopping district. But Universal is an entertainment center, hotels, shops, “more than $302 million in annual state challenging the “house of mouse” with restaurants and more.” and local taxes.” The number may dou- its two theme parks, one water park and Tom Williams, Chairman and CEO ble once the new park opens. one shopping district by adding another for Universal Parks and Resorts says Since Universal is the location of theme park. Universal has announced that the new park will “become the most Grad Bash, it begs the question, will this its Epic Universe which is set to open in immersive and innovative theme park new park be a part of the senior activity? 2023. we have ever created.” Because Universal Studios and The park will be very close to Uni- But it’s not all just fun and Islands of Adventure are connect- versal and Islands of Adventure. Epic games. Orlando’s mayor Jerry ed, it is easy for Universal to Universe will have a Nintendo Land, Demings is looking forward host the large senior party. which will include all its characters such - But according to the media as Toad, Donkey Kong, Mario, etc. It will munity in terms of the release, Epic Universe also include a How to Train Your Dragon economy.to the benefits Universal to the is com will be located “a few giving $160 million miles from the existing to the county to extend resort.” Kirkman, which is a road that will run north/south to could potentially attend Epic Universe is Thethis firstyear’s class freshmen that businesses. who are graduating in 2023. However, alleviateAlso, accordingtraffic for homesto Spectrum and News because of its location, Activities Direc- 13, Universal will be giving 20 acres tor Jennifer Gambale doesn’t think it will for affordable homes which will help be feasible. Even when Disney World people buying around the area, espe- hosted Grad Nite, it only took place in cially with its hiring of new personnel. the Magic Kingdom. It didn’t include the Currently, Universal has about 25,000 other parks. employees and will potentially add Regardless of all the hype, this will about 14,000 more with the new park. open a new world to children and adults Sean Smith, an economic professor alike in which they will experience all at UCF did an economic impact study the exciting Nintendo characters. Marvel has Thor but Universal has Mario. Let Florida to the tune of $73 billion since the battle of the hammers begin. that found Universal has benefited Concept art, logo and map courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort Media http://issuu.com/thevipervibe 9 News | Around the U.S.

Teenage marijuana use on the rise

Isabella Cerioni In the past ly affect our brain. Marijuana is one and decision-making.” Depending on Staff Reporter several decades, example of the many things that can be how often someone uses cannabis (an- [email protected] states have taken damaging to our brain functions. other name for marijuana), such effects measures to de- According to The New York Times, can last for days or weeks. criminalize and legalize the use of mar- “Marijuana poses very real risks-espe- CBD ijuana. Decriminalization decreases the cially to teens.” THC alters the way the But what about all the products out severity of criminal penalties for using brain communicates between nerve - marijuana. Legalization allows people to cells. “Using drugs-including marijua- juana without the psychotropic effects? possess, buy, and sell the drug. na-can negatively impact your brain de- there that claim the benefits of mari The National Academy of Medicine velopment.” As the brain changes it can of the chemicals in cannabis outside of put out a report in January 2017 stating lead to memory and learning problems THC;These CBD products products advertise contain the a chemicalbenefits that most of what we know about that may become perma- compound called cannabidiol. marijuana and its effects are nent and last through “Unlike THC, CBD does not have a mystery. Does it help adulthood. The po- mind altering effects on the brain (New with pain? Not enough tency of today’s York Times).” information. marijuana is Conditions such as insomnia, Does it help with even more chronic pain, and anxiety are said to be certain diseases like powerful. often treated by over-the counter CBD A.L.S. and Parkin- products. son’s? Not enough “But these are not regulated by the information. Much U.S. Food and Drug Administra- more study must be tion (FDA).” This tells us that done. they have not gone through One thing is for thorough testing to ensure certain. The marijuana that whatever it contains of today is much more is as safe and effective as potent than it was years their labels claim. ago. According to The New “For example, Yorker, “because of recent devel- some have been shown opments in plant breeding and growing to contain THC. Re- techniques, the typical concentration When THC search also shows CBD of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in is inhaled may interact with other marijuana, has gone from the low single or ingested it medications - with poten- digits to more than 20%.” This would be causes the brain tially harmful results.” This like comparing a sip of beer to a tequila to release dopa- is why it is important to talk shot. mine, a chemical that to a doctor before taking any CBD Even though more and more states plays a part in the develop- product. are allowing the use of marijuana (Flor- ment of cravings and addiction. Studies The point to take away is that ida voters approved medical marijuana show that Marijuana Use Disorder has regardless of whether it is safe or not, in 2016), the study of its effects is still a four to seven times higher chance of teenagers should avoid anything that ongoing. Most studies are done on the developing in “people who begin using interferes with their development. Cig- adult brain. Teenage brains, however, marijuana recreationally before age 18.” arettes. Alcohol. Vaping. Marijuana. All are completely different. A teenager has a higher risk of develop- these things affect the brain, which in a The Teenage Brain ing an addiction than an adult because teenager is still growing. Our objective as teens is to learn their teen brain is still developing. new skills that will strengthen connec- The brain’s coordination and reac- tions between our brain’s neurons to tion time can be impacted when THC is have a healthy, fully developed brain by present, making it unsafe to drive, ride a Photo Left: A joint with legal marijuana is smoked in a Calumet City home on Jan. 1, 2020, the first day of sales in Illinois. the time we reach our mid-20s. Believe bike, or play sports. Photo Right: Cupid Candies makes CBD chocolates for Elope, a wholesale customer, as part of efforts to expand the decades-old it or not, everything we do during this “THC is also associated with prob- company's customer base. photos with permission TNS pivotal time can negatively or positive- lems with attention, memory, learning,

10 [email protected] Around the U.S. | News

Vaping becomes national crisis

Right: Varela collects vaping and smoking items every day from students. Vaping and smoking are considered Level II Behaviors and can lead to suspension. photo by Kiana Paulino; Below: As soon as next week, FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb is expected to announce a ban on By Kiana Paulino the sale of flavored e-cigarettes - the majority of vaping products sold - in tens of thousands Editor of convenience stores and gas stations across the country, according to senior agency officials. IG: KIANAARAAE photo with permission TNS Smoking cigarettes has the question as studies have mood, and impulse. Nicotine the Mayo Clinic whose study been proven to be a source of shown both are harmful to used at an early age also reviewed vapers within seven many health-related issues. teenagers. Instead the ques- increases the likelihood of months of vaping, include Traditional smoking is no tion should simply be: what addiction and use of tobacco shortness of breath, cough, longer “cool,” and as a result are the effects of vaping on products. fevers, and cases of lipoid teenage smoking of cigarettes teens? “The concerns go beyond pneumonia; this occurs when has gone down. As of Novem- In some cases, vaping nicotine alone. Some brands fatty substances are inhaled ber 2019, the CDC reported has caused what could be the contain chemicals including directly into the lungs. a 5% decrease in cigarette same, if not more, health-re- formaldehyde, often used in In November 2018, the smoking among teen users. lated problems than smoking. building materials, that can people of Florida banned va- The effects of smoking in gen- The CDC reported 59 deaths lead to cancer,” health science ping indoors due to its health eral were so overwhelming and 2,602 lung injury cases teacher Barbara Paulsen said. hazards, adding to the con- that in December 2019, both linked to vaping Another stitution the 9th amendment. the Federal House and Senate in 2019 alone. danger is that Schools around the nation passed a ban on tobacco and More than many users have stepped up to educate e-cigarette sales to anyone 120 lung are adding on the dangers of vaping by under the age of 21. injury substances holding assemblies. However, this has not patients like mar- According to the Mi- stopped teens from getting have been ijuana to ami-Dade County Public their hands on e-cigarettes. under 18. the vap- School’s Student Code of In recent years, vaping or One ing liquid Conduct, vaping is treated the use of e-cigs has shown of the which is the same as smoking and is a rapid increase of 30% with most com- causing considered a Level II Behavior teenagers. According to the mon mis- lung damage. - FDA, more than 5 million U.S. conceptions of On the Johns terfere with the learning and/ middle school and high school vaping is the form, Hopkins Medical or"because the well-being they significantly of others." in students are e-cigarette users. water vapor, not being Center website, Michael Any student caught vaping The concern over vaping has harmful. Yet, this has been Blaha, M.D., M.P.H., director of may spend time in indoor or become so great that the fed- debunked by the Tobacco clinical research at the Johns outdoor suspension and for eral government has issued Free Organization since e-cig- Hopkins Ciccarone Center repeated offenses may be sent an “enforcement policy” on arettes could contain toxins for the Prevention of Heart to an alternative educational - such as nickel, tin, and lead Disease said, “These cases setting. tridge-based e-cigarettes that which could potentially cause appear to predominantly af- Research will continue unauthorizedappeal to children, flavored including car lung injury and disease. fect people who modify their on the effects of vaping, but in fruit and mint. E-cigs also contain vaping devices or use black The issue has provoked nicotine, the same addictive encouraged people to refrain the question of which is substance found in regular This is especially true for fromthe meantime, vaping until health more officials is worse: smoking or vaping. cigarettes. The use of nicotine vapingmarket productsmodified containing e-liquids. However, according to the by teens can potentially harm tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).” damages being done to not National Center for Health the parts of the brain that Some of the more im- onlyknown teen, about but theadult specific bodies, as Research, this shouldn’t be control attention, learning, mediate effects, according to well. http://issuu.com/thevipervibe 11 News | Around the World AMERICA FACES PANDEMIC The Coronavirus has spread from China into Europe and now into the U.S. How can we survive the health and economic fallout?

Isabella Londono One of people’s (USA Today). world-wide and affect the countries that Staff Reporter worst fears is the Just getting these symptoms, does factories are shut down like Italy and IG: Isabella.xoxo spread of a dead- not mean that a person has the Corona- Milan and it all comes down to supply ly virus that has and demand.” no cure: MERS, AIDS, Smallpox, Polio. It wise to go to the doctor to get checked In July 2019, President Trump out.virus; Most it could doctors just recommend be a common getting flu. It ais signed the "Buy American Act." The these diseases as they did with Smallpox purpose of this act was to maximize the andis a reliefPolio. when Recently, scientists an outbreak find cures of the for getting the Coronavirus, but it may help use of American-made goods. Many of Coronavirus or COVID-19 has put the withflu shot. the Thisrecovery. will not According stop a person to Johns from our basic medical supplies like masks world on edge. Hopkins, over 158,504 people have and gloves are made in China and Trump Origins recovered. It is survivable. is expected to sign another executive The virus is thought to have begun What makes this virus so serious is order aimed at eliminating the govern- in China at an open-air live animal mar- that the WHO has declared the Corona- ment’s reliance on foreign-made medical ket in Wuhan. It has spread around the virus as a pandemic. WHO Director Dr. supplies. world at a very fast rate. The Coronavi- Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the According to The New York Times, rus comes from a large family of viruses WHO is "deeply concerned by the alarm- the U.S. stock market has dropped more that are common amongst other species ing levels of spread and severity" of the than 12% since the panic over the virus like camels, cattle, cats, and bats. outbreak. "All countries can still change started. They suggest that investors the course of this pan- continue to expect the virus to disrupt demic. If countries detect, global trade as stock prices around the test, treat, isolate, trace world are dropping. and mobilize their people "To keep new cases from entering in the response," he said. our shores, we will be suspending all Economy travel from Europe to The United States According to ship-tech- for the next 30 days," President Trump nology.com “shipping said in a press conference. accounts for 90% of the The new rules went into effect Chinese employees eat lunch alone and separately for prevention of the new coronavirus and pneumonia in global trade”; the coro- March 13, at midnight and will be sub- the canteen of CIMC Raffles Offshore Engineering Pte navirus is disrupting that ject to change. The restrictions will not Ltd. in Yantai City, east China's Shandong Province on February 11. photo with permission Sipa USA/TNS trade. There are fewer apply to Britain. ships calling on Chinese The State Department has also These viruses have some of the ports and factories across the country issued warnings about taking cruises or factories working at low capacity are at this time. This will hit the cruise in the muscles or chest, fatigue, chills, closing. This is affecting the global econ- industry hard since it employs over losssame of symptoms appetite, congestion, as influenza sneezing, (flu): pain omy. 422,000 jobs in the U.S., one-third of coughing, shortness of breath, head- “This will affect the supply chain which are here in Florida (Washington aches, and sore throats (CDC). In ex- and the items that we get from China,” Post). Carnival Corp., Royal Caribbean, treme cases there may even be diarrhea, Social Studies teacher Irene Cartas said. and Norwegian Cruise Lines have all had nausea, and vomiting. “Eventually we will begin to see short- stock prices fall more than 50% and all According to the World Health Orga- ages in the United nization (WHO), there are currently over States and once 693,224 cases around the world and those shortages be- over 33,106 deaths mostly in China as- gin to occur, prices sociated with COVID-19. Here in the U.S., will begin to go up the number of known cases surpassed and that’s going to 122,653, and according to the CDC there affect our demand have been 2,112 deaths. The Coronavi- for goods. Because rus has already passed the SARS world- we may be able to af- wide death toll. ford it or not afford Regal Princess cruise ship docked at Port Ev- Keeping this in perspective, the it, depending on erglades in Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday, March 10, 2020. Seven cruise ships are expected to what it is, eventually, dock at the port in the next four days, before all U.S. last year alone, with 16,000 deaths it’s going to transfer cruise sailings are suspended because of the coronavirus. photo with permission TNS 12common [email protected] flu saw 29 million cases in the Around the World | News all information is current as of March 30

three companies are based in Florida. All pandemic. Pres- major cruise lines have shut down for at ident of Florida least the next month. International Unfortunately, many people are try- University, Mark ing to take advantage of the pandemic by B. Rosenberg, buying large quantities of items such as issued a statement hand sanitizer, gloves, masks and toilet that said "Remote paper. This in turn is not only affecting instruction for all the general public, but hospitals and classes will occur Traders work during the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on March 16, at Wall clinics are having shortages on these through at least Street in New York City. Trading on Wall Street was halted immediately after the opening bell Monday, as stocks posted steep losses following emergency moves by the Federal Reserve to try to avert a items. Online sellers like Amazon and Saturday, April 4." recession due to the coronavirus pandemic. photo with permission Getty Images/TNS eBay have cracked down on these items With over 192 and have begun banning their sales. cases at the time in According to USA Today, in some cases, Florida, it prompt- they are working with states to track ed most school sys- down the third-party sellers for prosecu- tems to shut down, tion. including our own According to the Washington Post, Miami-Dade Coun- the government is working on plans to ty Public Schools give money to all Americans who are not (M-DCPS). Super- intendent Alberto “We’re looking at sending checks Carvalho ordered tomillionaires Americans and immediately,” who filed tax Treasury returns. all schools closed Secretary Steven Mnuchin said, adding starting the week that Trump wants checks to go out “in of March 16. Luck- the next two weeks.” ily, Spring Break They are expecting the amount to was right around be approximately $1,000 or more and the corner. How- unlike other government money (unem- ever, rather than ployment, welfare or food stamps), peo- treat this time off ple do not have to apply for the money as an extra week of and people can use it any way they need. vacation, teachers The president has also enacted the were given instruc- Defense Production Act. This act "gives tions for distance the federal government broad authority learning. to direct private companies to meet the On Friday, needs of the national defense" (Militar- March 13, Varela’s yTimes.com). Over the decades, presi- dents have used this act to help in times of national crises. Trump is using it to get private companies to help produce medical supplies like masks and respira- tors. Florida As of March 11, Florida’s State Uni- versity System transitioned to remote learning in response to the coronavirus

Laptops and tablets were passed out to students who needed mobile devices at home. Varela handed out over 200 devices to its own students and loaned out close to 300 devices to local elementary schools. photo by E. Cardenas http://issuu.com/thevipervibe 13 News | Around the World Now that Florida cases have ris- en to over 5,700 with 71 deaths, the time out of school is still unknown. Prevention M-DCPS has taken proactive measures to help keep students and staff safe in their schools. Custodians have been instructed to use germicidal-Avistad D for daily cleaning and disinfecting. All bathrooms, door knobs, light Varela cafeteria workers make hot lunches to feed students switches, tables, chairs and water during the school closure. photo by N. Fins fountains will get special attention. The Florida Department of schedule changed from its normal block Health requires that paper towels schedule to one where students visited and soap are available in bathrooms. All all six classes in order to get instructions of the student bathrooms here at Varela on how to contact their teachers and have air dryers, so once hands are dry, what distance learning platform they doors should be opened with paper tow- would be using. Many teachers already els or sleeves. While schools are closed, utilize programs such as Edmodo, all buildings are getting deep sanitiza- Microsoft One Drive, Google Drive and tion cleanings. Edgenuity. Teachers were also assigned “Make sure you do the correct hand- - washing, at least lather for 20 seconds,” ed times when students could reach out Nursing teacher Barbara Paulsen said. for“office help. hours” which would be designat “They should be scrubbing between M-DCPS also made mobile devices available for any student that needed the wrists, everything travels. Under- a device at home. Varela passed out neaththeir fingers, their nails on theand side dry oftheir their hands hands, tablets to more than 200 students and thoroughly.” shared close to 300 devices with neigh- The CDC also recommends that boring elementary schools that were everyone practice “social distancing.” short. This means maintaining a distance of at During the weeks of distance least six feet from other people, avoid- learning (not Spring Break) schools will ing groups of people, and canceling/ provide hot grab-and-go meals for both rescheduling certain events. breakfast and lunch between 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. These meals will be prepared it (germs) within 10 seconds,” Paulsen by M-DCPS food service personnel said. "They “Everyone are finding should that be carryingalcohol kills some (M-DCPS). sort of alcohol that is 70% or greater.”

Students wipe down their keyboards before starting their virtual classes. Principal Fins supplied all teachers with 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes. photo by E. Cardenas

14 [email protected] Movies | Lifestyle lifestyle Jumanji takes it to the next level

The world of Jumanji has grown ters (DeVito plays By Letisleidi martinez from the original 1995 movie in which Johnson’s Brave- Staff Reporter characters get pulled into a very realistic stone and Awkwa- IG: XO.Letisleidis with two kids playing Jumanji. With a avatar called Ming), the basic storyline is badboard roll game. of the The dice, film main begins character in 1969 finato survive plays a the new game and make it home. Alan Parrish gets sucked into the But even with its serious consequenc- game where he stays for 26 years. es, the movie has humorous moments In 1995, two more kids found the that make the movie a fun adventure. game and continued to play, releasing Parrish and a host of creatures more because it was more original from the game. Robin Williams I have to admit, I liked the first one - Both movies scored about the same came a classic. andin ratings stayed with true viewers to the original and crit film.- playedIn 2017,Parrish Jumanji: and the Welcome film be to ics. On the other hand the movie the Jungle continued the story of seemed very realistic, nothing you the mythical land, but this time, the wouldn't be able to believe. board game changed itself into a video game. Dwayne Johnson, Kevin game to life in our world by having Hart, Jack Black and Karen Gillan things The verycome first out movieof the game.brought We the never played the avatars of high school stu- actually got to see the world of Jumanji. dents sucked into the game. The movie These last two movies took the players was a hit and it wasn’t long before plans (and us) into the game, introducing us for another movie were in the works. to Jumanji itself. In the last couple of Jumanji: The Next Level hit theaters minutes of Next Level, audiences were in December 2019. Johnson, Hart, Black given a glimpse of things escaping the and Gillan reprised their roles, bringing with them Danny DeVito and Danny Spencer’s pals reluctantly decide to movie and hinting at a continuation with Glover. chase after him, and accidentally pull in anothergame into movie. our world, mimicking the first DeVito and Glover. Next Level won’t win any Oscars, but Spencer (Alex Wolff), athletic Fridge The same rules apply this time it is good and worth watching to kick in (Ser’Darius The first Blain), film’s touchycrew of Martha pals — (Mor nerdy- around. some laughs. gan Turner) and ditzy Bethany (Madison 1. You get three lives. 2. If you die in the game, you die for separate universities. They’re meant to real. Above: photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures; Left: Danny Glover and Danny DeVito in Jumanji: The Next Level. photo with reuniteIseman) over — have the holidays,scattered but to attend insecure 3. Solve the game and call out its permission Columbia Pictures/TNS; Right: Nick Jonas, Jack Black, Karen Gillan, Dwayne Johnson Awkwafina and Kevin Hart Spencer misses being the strong, brave, name. star in Jumanji: The Next Level. photo with permission Columbia handsome avatar Bravestone (Johnson). With minor changes in the charac- Pictures/TNS Lifestyle | Movies

A Grimm Mia Rivera We all know of the line, Gretel and Hansel’s Staff Reporter classic fairy tale by the mother sends them off IG: imiiav Brothers Grimm, "Hansel & story Gretel," where two young themselves in the murky siblings must fend for themselves in the woods.to find work and fend for gloomy and unrelenting woods. Hungry As Gretel battles to is retold and afraid, they conveniently stumble defeat Holda and her upon a house made of gingerbread and devious and gruesome Director Oz Perkins enhances the eeriness of candy. Invited inside by the seemingly actions, viewers get an the classic fairy tale of Gretel and Hansel friendly owner, they soon suspect that entertaining look into it. her copious but mysterious behavior is The visuals and warm part of a sinister plan to do them harm. cinematography give a movie, I can see why others may have The fairy tale has gone through oth- dramatic effect. Aspects such as the set, not. Some reviews complain of not er adaptations before like Hansel & Gre- graphics, props, lighting and costumes enough jump scares or scary features. tel: Witch Hunters from 2013. With this are impressive. However, Gretel & Hansel is one of those Throughout the movie there is movies that is more moody than scary. narration from Gretel which makes the It focuses on what you feel from the likenew The feature Blackcoat’s film, Director Daughter Oz ,Perkins, takes on storytelling more understandable. The spooky atmosphere rather than con- aknown different for otherperspective horror/thriller than Hansel films & acting from all the characters was over- stant scares and puts more attention on Gretel, which focuses more on younger all interesting. Sophia Lillis, who plays captivating poetic expression. brother Hansel rather than older sister Gretel, presents a performance of pure Some horror movie fans may stray Gretel. This explains the swap in names fear and shock, countering how oblivi- Gretel & Hansel in the title Gretel and Hansel. ous Hansel, played by Sammy Leaky, is. because of its exceedingly leisurely The movie begins by telling the Krige, who plays the old woman version narrativeaway from and a film prominent like relation to story of a young girl who is cursed with of Holda, displays such a malicious deep inward feelings rather than what the ability to manipulate young chil- attitude it almost makes the experience is shown on the surface. dren. She later takes on the form of a come to life. From my personal standpoint, it cannibalistic witch named Holda (Alice was worth seeing on the big screen and Krige & Jessica De Gouw) and attracts a 61%, and on IMDb it got a 5.5/10. worth my ticket. Although On Rotten I enjoyed Tomatoes, the entirety the film of gotthe

specifically children to eat. Down the

Left: Gretel and Hansel movie poster. photo courtesy of Orion Pictures; Right: Sophia Lillis stars in "Gretel & Hansel." photo with permission Orion Pictures/TNS

16 [email protected] Movies/TV | Lifestyle Harley Quinn shines without Joker By Natalia Fernandez D.C. to get back to her “Puddin.” Prey gave her the Editor Comics D.C. Comics thought so chance to really IG: ohitsnaat have much of the role and how it show who Harley strug- was played, that they decided Quinn is as an in- gled in the last few years with to give Robbie her own movie dependent woman their big screen superheroes. Birds of Prey. The movie and not Joker’s While Christian Bale’s Bat- starts with the break-up of sidekick. man and Gal Gadot’s Won- Harley Quinn and the Joker. While Suicide der Woman did well, Henry Without his protection, she is Squad scored a Cavill’s Superman and Justice vulnerable to attacks by other miserable 59% League were disappointing. bad guys and has to face the with audiences on In 2016, DC Comics re- rage of narcissistic crime boss Rotten Tomatoes, leased Suicide Squad, a movie Black Mask, his right- hand Birds of Prey did about bad guys being good; man, Victor Zsasz, and every much better at but it didn’t do so well. In other criminal in Gotham City. 78% showing that spite of its rating, most view- Eventually things turn around when the story line ers would agree that the best for Quinn when she allies is good and they From left, Rosie Perez (as Renee Montoya), Mary Elizabeth Win- part of the movie was actor with three other strong wom- get a good leading stead (Huntress), Margot Robbie (Harley Quinn), Ella Jay Basco (Cassandra Cain) and Jurnee Smollett-Bell (Black Canary) star Margot Robbie’s portrayal of en: Black Canary, Huntress, actor, DC can, in in Birds of Prey. photo with permission DC Comics/TNS Harley Quinn. She was intro- and Renee Montoya. fact, produce a duced as Joker’s girlfriend, a I think Robbie was even decent movie. for home viewing through girl who would do anything better in this movie than This movie is worth the many platforms including On for him. Her entire focus was in Suicide Squad. Birds of money and is now available Demand. To All the Boys returns on Netflix By maria Pacheco After more than two and light-hearted. It also led us on this Personally, I am a sucker for movies Editor years, Lara and Peter emotional rollercoaster where Peter and like this which are especially great to IG: mmffppmm Lara’s relationship experiences many watch during a night in with your girls. To all the Boys: P.S. I Still highs and lows as opposed to how in the Overall, this is a great movie to watch at Love You just inreturned time for to Valentine’s Netflix with Day. home with friends when you want a cute their relationship. movie that will make you smile. out her secret love letter to all of her for- first Althoughmovie they the did two not movies show werethat side a of “It was surprisingly a really good merIn the crushes. first movie, One ofLara’s the recipients sister Kitty, of sent the little bit different, I did love it because movie that I didn’t expect to get so at- letter, Peter Kavinsky, and Lara began to of how it had some more drama and tached to,” senior Elena Fontana said. talk and develop feelings for each other showed different sides of their relation- leading up to the cute love story that is ship. It also had continued in this second movie. a more complex With everyone falling in love with plot when it came Lara and Peter’s relationship, fans of the to Lara having to original show and the book series could not wait for the next movie to come out. guy she wanted to Many people were stunned when they choosefigure out and which the con - saw John Ambrose, another one of her childhood crushes who received a love friend group. letter, in the trailer. flictsThis within movie their was Who would she choose? How would heartwarming mo- answered. mentsfilled with that many give that PeterIn react? my opinion All of which this movie were was finally a warm feeling teens love when watching in the sense that it is not as charming a rom-com. little bit different from the first movie A scene from, To All The Boys: P.S. I Still Love You, Noah Centi- neo, and Lana Condor. photo with permission Netflix/TNS

http://issuu.com/thevipervibe 17 Sports | Pro sports Super Bowl wows in many ways By Joshua Escobedo The Super 11, 1970, in Super Bowl IV. 31-20. Staff Reporter Bowl this The Chiefs are a fairly While the game IG: joshuae305 year was young team. Their average may have been played in player age was 26. This may exciting, it was the Miami (Dolphin’s Hard Rock have helped because most of half-time show that Stadium). This is considered the players are in their prime caused a lot of con- to be the eleventh Super and not really starting to slow troversy. The enter- Bowl hosted by the South down yet. Patrick Mahomes, tainment was women Florida region and the sixth quarterback for the Chiefs, focused starting with Shakira and Jennifer Lopez perform during the Super Bowl hosted in Miami became the youngest quar- Demi Lovato singing Super Bowl LIV halftime show at Hard Rock Gardens. While hosting large terback in history to win the the national anthem Stadium in Miami Gardens, Feb. 2. photo with permission The Palm Beach Post/TNS sporting events can bring Super Bowl. before the start of the a lot of tourists and money - game. Shakira and to an area, according to the ond quarters, the game was Jennifer Lopez did the Miami Herald, the total cost to really During close theas the first two and teams sec main show, putting host Super Bowl LIV in Miami battled it out. Both teams Miami’s Latin culture was around $500 million. headed into the half with 10 on display. While The two teams that faced points apiece. But by the sec- some said that the off were the Kansas City ond half of the third quarter, show was empower- Chiefs and the San Francis- the Chiefs were falling a little ing for women, others The Kansas City Chiefs celebrated after a co 49ers. This game was bit behind and were getting argued that the 31-20 victory in Super Bowl LIV against the San considered to be especially tired. The 49ers had gained performances were Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Feb. 2, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. photo 10 points making it 20-10. a little too sexual for with permission Kansas City Star/TNS But the fourth quarter is general audiences appearancesignificant for in the50 years.Chiefs The since where the Chiefs pulled out during prime time Bowl LV will also be in Florida lastit’s their time firstthe Chiefs Super everBowl won the victory, coming back from with Lopez dancing on a pole. a Super Bowl was against the Although the Super Bowl in the Tampa Bay area in the Minnesota Vikings on January season may be over, the Super Raymondbut about Jamesfive hours Stadium. north the 10 point deficit with three NBA losestouchdowns a legend: making the final Kobe Bryant other passengers. They were all headed Kobe’s num- By Jonathan Bigio-Vargas to the Mamba Sports Academy in Thou- ber 24 while Editor sand Oaks. According to CNN, all nine the announcer IG: [email protected] people on board (including the pilot) announced each player as Kobe Bryant being 6 foot 6. At the Staples Center, they did a haveAn been investigation identified andinto theirthe crash deaths is celebration of life for Bryant and many stillclassified ongoing. as an Authorities accident. say the inves- celebrities like Beyonce, Kim Kardashin Gianna Bryant and her father, former NBA player Kobe Bry- tigation may take over a year. Unlike and Jennifer Lopez attended the service. ant, attend the WNBA All-Star Game 2019 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on July 27, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. planes, helicopters are not required to His Olympic teammate Lebron James photo with permission Getty Images/TNS have a black box, making the investiga- gave a speech about Bryant, and how he The news of Kobe Bryant’s death wants to continue his legacy. shocked not only the NBA, but the entire Teams all around the league did “It’s shocking to be honest,” senior country. Even more shocking was his tributestion more that difficult. week to Bryant by honoring Andres Perez said. “Because he was manner of death, a helicopter crash in the two numbers he played: 24 and 8. taken too early from his life and to me he Calabasas, California. Some teams did a shot clock violation was kind of a prodigy in basketball. A lot Bryant had taken to using helicop- and an eight-second backcourt violation, of people looked up to him, even if they ters around Los Angeles to avoid the bad while other teams did a video tribute didn't know about basketball and Kobe honoring Bryant before their games was a fantastic person and we will all joined by his daughter Gianna and six started. His team, the Lakers, wore miss him.” 18city [email protected] On this latest flight, he was Varela | Sports Spring Sports Spring sports was inter- the closures. The team started outside hitter Jonathan rupted by the school closures. conditioning in October and According to Athletic Director according to Coach Harley player who had “extremely Ryan Schneider, sports de- impactedVargas (11) our was team a first in a year posi - partments around the coun- getting comfortable in game- tive way.” try are in the dark. School timeTekerman, situations. they Games“were finally are a The coaches feel bad that systems have not decided lot different from practice so their senior players are losing what will happen if or when the more games you play the out on opportunities and schools report back this year. more comfortable you'll be.” the chance to play their last “It’s affecting more than Sixty percent of the games as seniors. just games, but kids’ schol- “The only thing I would arships and opportunities,” never get to play again. Play- really like to do is to celebrate Schneider said. ersinfield like was Delylah seniors Nieto who (12) may our senior girls,” Zellner said. By this time, the school were really starting to im- “They didn't get to have a system usually has the prove in the last game against senior game and have that ex- following year’s fall sports South Dade. perience of walking out with schedules set, but with the Track and Field had only their parents. I am planning closurers “it’s all up in the had a couple of meets. The on doing something for the air.” Schneider is hoping that week before school closures, senior girls when it is safe to there will be meetings soon do something.” with the FHSAA to determine place in the High Jump in the If we come back on April 15, what will happen with the prestigiousArielle Ho (12) Sam finished Burley Invi5th - Coach Tekerman would like to athletes. tational. Emily Holzer (12) have at least one last game for In the meantime, most had already signed a schol- the seniors. spring sports only had a arship to play for St. Thomas “The season being cut shorter chance to play a few games or University. really is devastating for the attend a few meets. Neverthe- Baseball had a slow start team,” she said. “Senior night less, each team was already at 2-7, but Coach Carlos Yedo is so important for this team making progress. felt they were getting stron- since most of the team are Flag Football was at 2-1 ger in the second half of the seniors.” and ranking number two in season. Antonio Martinez the District. According to (11) led the team in both ever where seniors didn't Coach Christopher Zellner, hitting .412 and pitching 1.50 get“This to wouldplay out be there the first spring time Hailey Alfaro (11) and Nicole ERA, with 15 Strikeouts in 14 season and that has college Rubio (11) could have broken innings pitched. Nelson Perez implications as well,” Yedo some school records this year. (12) had also signed a schol- said. “College players can red- As running back, Alfaro had arship with Sussex County shirt and get one more year, already made four touch- College. high school athletes can't. downs this year and as quar- Boys Volleyball stopped For some it would be their terback, Rubio had already at 2-3. According to Coach last chance to play organized passed for over 100 yards. Irving Baez, 6’4” starting mid- baseball.”

“I truly believe we could dle hitter/blocker Yosdany information gathered by Staff; photos by have had a shot at a district Angulo (9) was showing great Fox-Mar, Best Photo Creations, and Katherine Rodriguez championship this year,” said promise as the future Zellner. of Varela Volleyball. Softball was at 4-3 before Also, 5’10” starting

http://issuu.com/thevipervibe 19 Take home memories of your year Senior Video $25 Graduation Video $35

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