SENIORS FEATURES 2020-2021 HOMETOWN GRADUATES HEROES ON PAGE 10-11 STARTS ON PAGE 4 Vol 6 No 1 MAY 2021 www.themiawave.org From Portable to Permanent together,” and review notes or study. gymnasium is the stage, which will The classrooms will certainly be an further MIA’s performing arts depart- area of interest for both students and ment and its capabilities. Utilizing a teachers alike. According to Princi- rear projection system, the stage will pal Melissa Scott, “everything is an provide a different experience for stu- upgrade” in the new classrooms that dents interested in the performing arts, will soon be available to students. who usually perform using a ‘360 de- The classrooms will feature the new- gree’ stage format. “It’s going to open est generation of SmartBoards, along us to be able to do more things,” said with a variety of new technology. performing arts instructor, Chris Dayett. With third-floor views of the is- Dayett and Principal Scott have both land, students will still be able to mentioned utilizing the stage to hold eat lunch outdoors next year. The presentations similar to ‘TED Talks.’ To new lunch terrace will offer views of further the sound quality, the area will San Marco Road, similar to the stu- also house two separate sound systems dents current outdoor dining area. for both the gymnasium and the stage. MIA’s new campus will host an ex- Dean of Students, Kevin Ray, ex- panded variety of new athletic op- plained that he looks forward to portunities, due to new compo- the advancement of safety precau- nents such as a gymnasium, locker tions in the new building. Describ- rooms, a field, and a fitness center. ing the new campus as the “forefront Ryan Marie Roberts, Director of Athlet- of school safety,” Ray explained that A complete rendering of Marco Island Academy’s new lobby. ics and Student Activities, predicts that the security of the students will flour- pus will give a first impression of the enrollment will grow as a result of the ish with a properly enclosed facility. By Colin Donegan school, and will serve as a hub to the brand new athletic offerings. “We’re The new campus will certainly be an After years of development and different regions of the building, such looking to hopefully add JV teams for upgrade from Marco Island Acade- preparation, Marco Island Academy will as the gymnasium and the classroom all of our athletic sports,” Roberts ex- my’s current offerings. It will provide be graduating to a permanent campus for wing. The entrance area will feature a plained. She detailed that her goal was to a heightened academic atmosphere the 2021-2022 school year. Made possi- reception center, multiple entrances, expand upon MIA’s athletics, all while and experience, all while creating ad- ble by the support of the generous do- and staircases with sitting areas. Atop improving student involvement. With ditional opportunities for students. nors of the Marco Island community, the the main staircase, the building will the addition of the gymnasium, Roberts As seen through its many exciting building will feature numerous upgrades host what has been dubbed as a stu- stated with certainty that HOPE physical features, the new building will serve from the charter schools current setup. dent lounge. Principal Scott stated that education would be hosted on campus. as a beneficial learning environment The lobby of the new cam- it serves as a place for students to “be Located at the forefront of the for students in the years to come. Wynne’s Warriors Her diagnosis threw the Lockwoods a to see all of her progress wiped away.” has done so much for Key Club, and we By Jorge Rodriguez curveball, leaving them to research on A treatment or cure could change that. wanted to help her family because she Like many toddlers, Wynne their own. As Matt says, “when your Wynne’s story found its way to has really helped our Key Club family.” Lockwood loves playtime and snacktime, child is diagnosed with a rare disease… MIA through her grandmother, Marie To repay the kindness and raise funds especially with her older sister. She adores you realize that it is your responsibili- Lynn McChesney. McChesney has been for Kleefstra Syndrome, many stu- her family and loves to go swimming on ty as a parent to drive progress toward very involved with Marco Island Acade- dents and Key Club officers baked the weekends. However, Wynne has ex- treatments and a cure.” Shortly after my’s Key Club as the Marco Island Acad- goods and sold bracelets on the pavil- perienced far more in her lifetime than her diagnosis, Wynne’s parents discov- emy Kiwanis Advisor from the Kiwanis ion during lunchtime. In total, the bake the average adult. Her prognosis has put ered a non-profit organization that they group, and has become close friends with sale raised about $910, where Key Club the Lockwoods in a race against time. could turn to, IDefine, which is dedicat- the Key Club Advisor, Lori Galiana. Once then donated to reach a total of $1500. At just 3-years-old, Wynne ed to identifying treatments and cures Galiana learned of Wynne’s condition, she If you wish to support and be- Lockwood was diagnosed with Kleef- for Kleefstra Syndrome and other rare immediately began searching for ways come one of “Wynne’s Warriors,” please stra Syndrome - a rare genetic disorder intellectual disabilities. Since then, the that the MIA community could support the donate to the GoFundMe link below. that delays cognitive and psychological Lockwoods have been working closely family. As MIA sophomore and Key Club https://charity.gofundme.com/o/ development. Wynne is one of only 500 with the group in support of their efforts. Officer Taylor Drott says, “McChesney en/campaign/wynnes-warriors people in the world with Kleefstra Syn- Wynne has been undergoing drome, which is caused by the mutation multiple therapies from a very young or deletion of one gene - Euchromatic age in order to build up her strength Histone Methyltransferase 1 (EHMT1). and other skills before her disease Initially discovered in April worsens. Despite the lack of a remedi- 2010, its more common features include al treatment or cure for Kleefstra Syn- intellectual disabilities, sleep disorders, drome, the Lockwoods have worked limited or absence of speech, behavioral tirelessly together. Fortunately, Matt difficulties, and a general loss of - enthu and Maria’s efforts have paid off, as siasm or interest. Those diagnosed with IDefine has partnered with the Boston Kleefstra Syndrome typically begin to ex- Children’s Hospital to open a Kleef- perience regression once they hit puberty. stra Syndrome Research Clinic, and Having been diagnosed in the has already launched a patient regis- summer of 2020, Wynne’s parents Matt try. However, there is far more to be and Maria Lockwood have been working done. As her mother puts it, “[Wynne] to raise awareness for this rare disease. works so hard. It would be devastating 2 SCHOOLSCHOOL NEWSNEWS MAY 2021 In Sickness and In Health Optimist Essay Contest By Abigail Gallup featured three actresses: Grace Fields, being awarded second place and Rachel Weiner, and Isabella Burgos. By Paola Cortazar Ryan Miner third place. In fourth One theme, 2 days, and end- This play was placed first and of- A list of the winners for the place came Abigail Gallup, round- less creativity for Marco Island Acad- fered her a well-deserved spotlight. 2020-2021 Optimist international Es- ed out by Keagan Hallock in fifth emy’s Valentine’s Day Bake-off Pro- When asked why she writes she say Contest has finally been released. place. OCMI further awarded gram. This Valentine’s Day program said, “I like writing for people,” and “I With the prompt of ‘Reaching your their efforts with certificates and not only featured the work of alumni like seeing people bring my stuff to life.” Dreams by choosing Optimism’, checks ranging from $50 up to $250. and theatre head, Mr. Dayett, but also It’s this clear passion that has won Riley students were able to fully express OCMI Club Chair, Jayme Lowe the work of students from both Thespi- awards and has given her the opportu- themselves with little limitations said the “prompts are never easy ans and Mr. Eder’s photography class. nity to have one of her plays, “directed to the topic itself. Given as an as- and the requirements are pretty Mr. Eder’s class was tasked with by a professional director.” Riley has signment by the head of the English strict. They always do a great job writing sonnets and shooting photos that no plans to stop writing, she revealed Department at Marco Island Acad- and this year was no exception. would accompany their written work. that she just submitted a play to states emy, Keith Scalia, to his juniors tak- We had a very hard time scoring as These posts can be found on The Wave. and hopes for even more recognition. ing AICE English language. they were all great and heartfelt.” As the theatre department con- In addition, Letendre and tinues to grow and writers like Riley con- Irvan’s essays will be sent to the tinue to inspire, the opportunities are truly district level to be judged along endless. This program is ever-changing with winners from other Opti- and she said, “going to the meetings mist Clubs in the district. Col- is the best way to get information.” lege scholarships are available for We are sure Riley and the the- top winners at the district level. atre community will continue to pro- Optimist International is Theater students were given the same duce award-win- ning content and we 1st place - Riley Letendre one of the world’s largest service theme, Valentine’s Day, and asked can’t wait to see what’s next. 2nd place - Haylen Irvan club organizations with 80,000 to write a play in under 48 hours. Congratu- lations to the 3rd place - Ryan Miner adult and youth members in 2,500 The script had to play into the Valen- department for this won- 4th place - Abigail Gallup clubs in the United States, Can- tine’s Day theme and had a limit of derful pro- gram, MIA 5th place - Keagan Hallock ada, the Caribbean, Mexico, and three characters. Riley Letendre, an is proud of their Five MIA students were re- throughout the world. Carrying the award-winning playwright, was the first tireless work. cently recognized for having won Mission Statement “By provid- featured play included in this program. the Optimist Club of Marco Island’s ing hope and positive vision, Op- She said, “I can’t make it a love sto- essay contest based on the theme of timists bring out the best in youth, ry” and so she decided to craft a play “Is Optimism the Key to Achiev- our communities, and ourselves.” with, “all girls, where they’re all just ing the Dreams you Imagine?” Optimists conduct positive service ranting.” Her play, a story centered First place honors went to projects that reach more than six around the 90’s riot girl movement, Riley Letendre, with Haylen Irvan million young people each year. Get Psyched! 2020 - 2021 Wave Staff ship I have with my daughter.” With By Abigail Gallup this in mind the decision to move and Editors: It isn’t often that you are for- “be closer to them” was a no-brainer. Abigail Gallup - Editor-in-Chief tunate enough to find a teacher with With Mr. Howard’s arrival to MIA, he a wealth of outside experience and admits that this is a very different set- Phoenix Gutierrez - Digital Media Editor expertise besides curriculum and in- ting from the larger schools he was Riley Letendre - Entertainment Editor struction. Recently, Marco Island accustomed to in the Tampa Bay Area. Colin Donegan - News Editor He said he would describe his, “MIA Academy was lucky enough to hire Paola Cortazar - Opinion Editor on Mr. Howard to build the psycholo- experience thus far as ‘a learning ex- gy classes back and better than ever. perience.’” As he continues teach- Kathryn Barry - Associate Editor Mr. Howard wasn’t always a teach- ing his psych and AICE psych cours- Lily Braun - Features Editor er. Before teaching he, “worked in the es he looks forward to improving his Haylen Irvan - Environmental Editor mental health field for almost 20 years,” “ability to teach Cambridge courses.” focusing on adults who suffered from Marco Island Academy is truly lucky Caitlyn Sadofsky - Sports Editor “chronic mental illnesses like schizo- to have Mr. Howard as an educator. Kendall Jacobs - Layout Editor phrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance His students and colleagues recognize Emma Blankenship - Photo Editor disorders.” In his last two years work- his passion for teaching and his ability Lexi Smith - Arts Editor ing in the mental health field, he was to connect with students. Mr. Howard in charge of staff training and develop- said that he looks forward “to teaching ment at a large organization.” This gave here for a few more years, maybe Staff Writers: Mr. Howard the opportunity to teach longer.” As time progresses Jorge Rodriguez and he fell in love with the profession. MIA looks forward to Before working at Marco Is- having him on our Michelle Armas land Academy, Mr. Howard worked in staff and continuing Laura Alvarado the Tampa Bay area at two large pub- to bene- fit from his Arlette Villela-Hernandez lic schools. He eventually taught at years of experience Emily Reisinger the same school his daughter attend- inside and outside the ed “which was a great experience for classroom. Isabella Portu both” of them. Mr. Howard worked Madison Moyer for a combined 19 years as an educa- tor and became involved with his stu- dents as the cross country and track & Contributing Writers: field coach, sponsor of the Psychol- Isabella Burgos ogy club, and co-sponsor to NHS. Angel Bartlett Mr. Howard decided to make the move in July of 2020 after his only Yessenia Martinez child, Whitney and her husband both Robert Davis moved. When asked about his proud- Sommar Kashey est accomplishment in life Mr. Howard said, “I am most proud of the relation- MAY 2021 SCHOOLSCHOOL NEWSNEWS 3 Surging Waves

er been stronger and the once unfa- by learning from oth- By Isabella Burgos miliar writers have become a family. ers. Having the ability Journalism’s roots all be- With the growth of the de- to be honest with each gan in room 104 with Mr. Sca- partment, for the first time, the ma- other created a tight- lia at the head. The start of the jority of the newspaper staff wasn’t knit environment that school year opened with an en- consumed by the journalism class only strengthened the tirely new journalism staff. The offered at MIA. Students throughout publications. Having Editor-in-Chief, Abigail Gallup, the school began to show an inter- a family atmosphere had just moved to MIA and was est that had never been seen before. encouraged the team new to Journalism as a whole. The growing amount of involvement to be more vulnerable That wasn’t the only new thing, gave the newspaper a chance to alter when writing which Advisor Keith Scalia instituted the how we were regarded throughout led to more person- Editorial Board hoping to bring the school. Team member Yessenia al stories and learn- more student voice to the decisions Martinez said this, “It is no lon- ing about each oth- of the program. Mr. Scalia is “con- ger a class that you have to take or er on a deeper level. vinced that the implementation of were placed into, but rather one that Suddenly, our the Editorial Board is what moved you’re fortunate enough to have.” group’s enthusiasm the program to new heights both Having a bigger pool of writers grew and elevated the Collectively, we began to flourish academically and collegially.” has allowed for the club to create quality of our pieces. Our writers and slowly became recognized for Even though the pandemic put a well-rounded content and a safer enjoyed working with others who all of our milestones. We were giv- pause on recruiting new members, environment for feedback and con- also cared about content creation. en five awards that were presented we were able to expand our team structive criticism. Students were Eventually, the team launched iMIA, for the excellence within our site, to 25 writers. This group has nev- able to expand their writing skills a multimedia extension of the news- ability to continuously cover sto- paper. With this expan- ries, cover stories that focused on sion the team began current school-year events, cov- creating podcasts and er multiple forms of media, and videos that related to have active audience engagement. a variety of topics - Editor-in-Chief, Abigail Gallup women’s rights, hock- said, “this group means the world ey, and the progress to me, these are the people who I of the building. iMIA will thank for my highschool ex- has further expand- perience. I couldn’t be luckier.” ed the capabilities of All of these triumphs were the program as well as a result of the hard work of our the opportunities for newspaper team. The MIA Wave the students of Mar- has reached new heights and will co Island Academy. continue to improve in the future.

By Phoenix Gutierrez Videos Podcasts By Colin Donegan In this video, our news editor, Col- in Donegan, and I were fortunate In the first episode of “Light the enough to explore the school’s new Lamp,” News Editor, Colin Do- building, which has been in the works negan, sits down with English for multiple years. We showcased an instructors Mr. Scalia and Mr. interview with our principal, Melis- Butler to discuss recent trades sa Scott, in discussion of the new in the National Hockey League. lobby, where we included footage of Throughout this series of the progress and general layout. This lengthy analysis, the three the- video also features an interview with orize the outcomes of trades in one of our classmates giving the stu- the four divisions of the NHL. dent perspective on the new building. 4 FEATURESFEATURES MAY 2021 Val Simon: Hometown Heroes to online news forms, less newspapers the students were able to have the time is of no concern to Simon. She feels By Lily Braun were being sold. The convenience of they needed. Because of her dedication, that since many newspapers have About forty years ago, Val online news outweighed that of a print- the journalism staff of The Wave ex- migrated online, this leaves a lot of Simon was looking for a job. Every ed copy. Mrs. Simon feels that smaller pressed interest in awarding her with a room for smaller publications like the day, she would apply to three jobs, in newspapers started to “fill the void.” token of appreciation. On Wednesday, Coastal Breeze to find their market. hopes to land just one. One day, she Newspapers are always evolv- January 6th, Simon came to Marco Is- She noted that running a pa- was driving home from an interview, ing, from the past, to the present, and land Academy to meet with the Editorial per now is very different than even ten and saw the local newspaper, the the into the future. In the past, newspapers Board and their advisor, Mr. Keith Scalia. years ago- “now you have to have a Racine Journal Times, from the cor- have been the only source of informa- During her visit, she offered ad- website, you need to have a Facebook ner. She thought it might be interesting tion for people and were a true neces- vice to the students who write for The page - you need to reach the other age at the time, so she sity for news coverage. Today, news- Wave. She relayed the importance of groups.” But if you can evolve and decided to go in and have a look. She papers have completely evolved into being open-minded and dedicated, es- take the right steps to reach varying applied there, and when she got the somewhat of an online revolution. Mrs. pecially for students who have an inter- audiences, you can grow a follow- job, she fell in love with journalism. Simon continues to play a vital role in est in journalism. If you have a passion ing, just as the Coastal Breeze has. She especially enjoyed that keeping her newspaper alive. She focus- in a certain area, she advised to “go for Simon remarked, “If you being a journalist does not require es on investing time into her communi- it. It’s not a lifetime commitment…” can make people feel a bit better af- you to be committed to one specif- ty, especially into finding students that Simon explained that journalism covers ter interacting with you than they did ic place. Mrs. Simon loved that you could become the future of journalism. a variety of topics and material to write before, you will go far,” and Mrs. could be anywhere in the world and Val Simon has assisted The about. She added that if you have any Simon has certainly left her impact still do this job. Journalism allows Wave since its infancy. The students at interests, you could most certainly make on The Wave. Marco Island Acad- you to write about anything that you Marco Island Academy did not have ac- a living writing about it as a journalist. emy is eternally grateful for Val have an interest in. It provides a place cess to software or funding that would She then recalled some of her experienc- Simon’s dedication and our strong for journalists to find their audience. allow them to print the newspaper, and es in her tenure working for the Coastal partnership with Coastal Breeze. As big newspapers contin- in response, Simon kindly opened the Breeze. Subsequently, Simon was pre- As time progresses, The Wave staff ue into a decline, smaller, commu- Coastal Breeze office to The Wave ed- sented an award for her role in the publi- looks forward to the publication of nity focused papers like the Coastal itors so they could finalize their paper. cation of the print variant of The Wave. their sixth volume and their contin- Breeze have retained their audience. At least once a week, students would go In the last few years, online pa- ued cooperation with Val Simon. As more people have transitioned there and perfect the layout. She would pers have really taken to the forefront even pause production to make sure that of the journalism scene. However, this

Val Simon pictured with Colin Donegan, Kathryn Barry, Cassandra Scalia, Paola Cortazar, Haylen Irvan, Riley Letendre, Phoenix Gutierrez, Lily Braun, Abigail Gallup, Caitlyn Sadofsky, and Keith Scalia. Mark Melvin: Hometown Heroes his ability to help led him to discover understands the importance of commu- and to repay the people that helped By Editorial Board the need for a permanent campus as the nity and has mirrored this through his you get where you are today.” Mark Melvin, a man not Marco Island Academy student body donations. Most recently his seeking recognition but very de- quickly grew. As he came to know Jane contribution to the Class of serving of it. You might see him Watt, the Chairperson of the Acade- 2021 naming-right opportu- walking through the halls or giv- my, and her mission, he made the de- nity for a set of home bleach- ing tours of the brand new building. cision to officially get involved in the ers has reflected the impor- Regardless of the size or scope, Mark construction of the permanent campus. tance of student involvement. Melvin continually makes it a point to With his history in IT de- Mr. Melvin hopes the new help out, living to serve his commu- velopment, Melvin brought a crucial building will serve as a cata- nity, especially the students of Mar- perspective to the building and it’s lyst for opportunity and even- co Island Academy. He understands new technology. With the progres- tual success. He has been in- the importance of direct involvement sion of the new build, Melvin also be- spired by the students and the and personal connection. That’s why came a part of the Capital Campaign. sense of community on cam- Melvin invests in the little things Melvin has always followed his pus and treasures his continued like donating candy canes for the mother’s advice to, “give until it hurts.” opportunity to further MIA. holiday season and investing quali- This selflessness has become the foun- Melvin’s willingness to ty time on campus with the students. dation for his contributions to the schol- give stands true as he re- After the devastation of arship opportunities for MIA students minds students to always Hurricane Irma, fate would have it and the building as a whole. Reflecting remember to “take advan- that Melvin would find his home on back on his high school years, Melvin tage of the opportunities Mark Melvin and Michelle Melvin on site of the new building Marco Island. His will to serve and MAY 2021 FEATURESFEATURES 5 The Rhineharts: Hometown Heroes By Editorial Board tions from Pennsylvania, helped gain an ing “up the game with fundraising.” She COVID-19 has brought a lot of unex- audience with the governor which would helped change the campaign from every- pected challenges, but the Rhineharts Brenda and Scott Rhinehart have a have been impossible otherwise with one working too hard with little results are proud of how MIA has shown dream. They hope that Marco Island the size of our school. Watt’s meeting to the successful effort we see today. In resilience and work has continued Academy, a school fueled by dreams, with Rick Scott gave MIA credibility. addition, both Mr. and Mrs. Rhinehart on our permanent campus. They are will be a place to foster creativity and The Rhineharts donated a large sum of have a part in the Capital Campaign. also grateful for the new people that quality education in students for gen- money to the performing arts center at They know that the school is going have come to this island and stepped erations to come. A contribution to MIA’s new campus. Mrs. Rhinehart not- to “do nothing but flourish” and Mr. up to believe in MIA’s mission. this dream, a stage called The Rhine, ed that they chose performing arts spe- Rhinehart added that the “new building No longer will The Rhine just be a river is quickly coming to fruition as our cifically as a result of their granddaugh- is going to bring us credibility,” which in Europe. It will be an amazing perfor- school building reaches completion. ter’s involvement in theatre back in is very important for a successful future. mance space for generations to come. Before moving to Marco Island, Pennsylvania. Their the Rhineharts resided in Pennsyl- experience exposed vania where Mr. Rhinehart was a them to how much member of the Board of Directors at a school’s theatre York College. He liked being able program can im- to aid the success of their students. pact a child, which Around 2011, the couple de- led them to hold it cided to permanently make the move close to their hearts. to Marco Island. Once they had set- Christopher Day- tled in, they started their search for ett, the perform- a local cause to support. With the ing arts director at hopes of contributing an abundance MIA, tells us that of aid to their new community, the he is “very grateful two were looking to help with both for their support financial support and volunteer work. of the performing Instantly after meeting Jane Watt, arts and look for- the Rhineharts knew Marco Island ward to all of the Academy was the perfect opportunity. future productions With their pasts in education, on ‘The Rhine.’” the decision to help MIA was obvious. Mrs. The two have always been interested in Rhinehart is on the helping schools and “giving students board, and says that and their families a choice in educa- her biggest accom- tion.” Mr. Rhinehart, with his connec- plishment was help-

David Gardner: Hometown Heroes er to the art of construction. Build- Marco Island, he soon fell in love up to me, and I want to be able to By Editorial Board ing his construction company from with the island’s atmosphere. This is give back and help them.” Now, Every dream starts with the ground up, this Cape Cod native where Gardner began a new founda- students at Marco Island Acade- a humble foundation. It takes a became a successful entrepreneur. tion. Soon, this bond would lead him my will have something to look great deal of hard work and ded- He found himself on Mar- to sell his house up north and reunite up to - the new building. Stand- ication to reach your destina- co Island after receiving an offer to with his home on Marco Island. ing tall as a symbol of resilience tion. Construction is no easy feat; wine and dine with the locals. A new David Gardner continued and honor, the new MIA campus whether you are building your opportunity arose when he was giv- building bonds and creating new will embody those who worked future or a state-of-the-art cam- en the chance to buy property. In ex- foundations wherever he went. His hard to make the dream a reality. pus, the foundation must be solid. change, the trip to the island would local Lions Club acted as a new Gardner is optimistic about David Gardner is no strang- be free. After purchasing a home on slate, where he would later meet the new building because of the ex- Jane Watt. This is when citement it will bring to the commu- his legacy at Marco Island nity. He knows that MIA is special, Academy began. Watt had and that the school is student-cen- dreams of building a school tered with an emphasis on commu- on Marco Island for local nity and leadership. He is optimis- high school students. Gard- tic about Marco Island Academy’s ner had friends whose chil- ability to provide students with dren went to a large Naples new opportunities and a continued high school, and he agreed improvement to their overall learn- that there was a need for ing. Gardener loves Marco Island, a smaller high school on and he cannot wait to see how the Marco Island. It all started new school will help the island with a dream, much like a foster creativity in MIA’s students. blueprint. The two began Marco Island Academy collaborating and working would like to thank David Gardner hard to bring this dream to for teaching us to not overlook the life. Gardner generously foundation and for constantly sup- donated money and offered porting our MIA family. It all starts his help for the project. with a foundation, how you build Mark Melvin and Michelle Melvin on site of the new building “Kids always look upon it determines your success. 6 FEATURESFEATURES MAY 2021 The Iordanous: Hometown Heroes Iordanou graciously offered to help and facilities. He added, “you need a great forever be known to all at MIA as they By Editorial Board upon meeting Jane Watt, her decision curriculum, a great staff, and the proper continue score for our MIA family. Athletes display their last name was finalized. She chaired our entire facilities to help shape young minds.” proudly at the tops of their jerseys. They Capital Campaign for the new build. Building this new school will provide proudly wear their team’s name along From there, she says “the rest is histo- not only the proper with their own name as they conquer ry.” Indeed it was history, a history lead- facilities but nu- each court, field, or track. The -Iorda ing up to a home run; our new campus. merous expansive nou name is recognized as both a last At a young age, Marianne Ior- opportunities to name and a team name. Marianne and danou had a spark of curiosity when it the growing youth Dinos Iordanou are a team, husband came to athletics. However, she wasn’t of Marco Island. and wife, that work together to be the allowed to participate in sports because The Ior- change they seek in their community. her father believed it wasn’t appropriate danous are very Mr. and Mrs. Iordanou are a for women. With age, her passion for excited to see this team for change. They believe “educa- athletics grew, prompting her to work community “mov- tion is the ladder of society,” and show with her husband and donate to the Arts ing ahead and not it in their actions to support our school. and Athletics Department at Marco Is- staying stagnant.” A From investing in a new scoreboard land Academy. In addition, Mrs. Iorda- team must work co- for MIA at Winterberry Park to donat- nou had also noticed that there wasn’t operatively to move ing the Arts and Athletic center for the much of a theatre program on the island. as a well-oiled ma- new building, the Iordanous see the In theatre, a cast full of actors works chine. Mrs. Iorda- importance of working together. Ul- like that of a team. In her eyes, “teams- nou wants to see the timately, they are a team that intends manship gives kids pride, and the theat- community thrive on being successful and improving rical performances and working togeth- and for everyone the community in any way they can. er brings kids together,” so donating to to enjoy the op- When looking at a team, it is build up both programs was the perfect portunities Marco important to look at each individual way to bring the importance of working Island has to offer. player, along with their impact on the together into the lives of many students. The Iordanous will team as a whole. Marianne Iordanou is a The other player on the team, always be a part of determined woman who many students Mr. Iordanou, also sees a lot of impor- the Marco Island look up to. In New York, Mrs. Iordanou tance in education. Somewhere in a Academy family, acted as Vice-Chair of the Board of Di- small town in Greece, was a young boy and their contri- rectors for Our Lady of Mercy Acade- seeking education. His hometown did bution to building my and chaired their capital campaign not have access to quality education. up this community to build a new technology center for the When Dinos Iordanou was 19, he moved and truly believing school. When she overheard about the to the United States and worked several in MIA’s message need for funding and support at Marco jobs to be able to pay for a better educa- will help to cre- Island Academy, she knew this was a tion. He saw firsthand what school can ate a strong foun- great opportunity to contribute to their do for someone and how it impacts their dation for young new community, and an opportunity to success, so he wanted to repay society leaders. The Ior- act on their calling to help children. Mrs. by contributing to MIA’s educational danou team will Top 5 Hiking Spots In Southwest Florida

that happened in the area. The history not common, there is a chance of en- finish your trail there is a little restau- By Emily Reisinger of this trail is incredible, but the hike countering one along your hike, so ex- rant and gift shop where they offer boat needs experience and is not as easy ercise caution! The hike is reasonably tours and canoeing in Myakka Lake and as some say. If you choose this hike, easy and a good adventure for older river. This is also a prime fishing spot bring your rain boots as you’ll often children. The trail leads to a cabin with which can be a nice afternoon activity. encounter terrain that will require you a gorgeous view of the lake. You cannot Though the hike can be a bit painstak- to walk through water up to your waist. enter the 1957 cabin, but it’s still super ing, the view and experience at the end interesting to look at from the outside. make it worth it. With a large number of 4. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Near the cabin there is an outhouse, but gators, be careful and exercise caution! This is the easiest hike on the list and I definitely wouldn’t recommend using some elementary schools in the area it. This would be the perfect hike for a 1. Bird Rookery even take field trips here. The hike date with a romantic picnic at the end Bird Rookery Trail is a hike for someone is on a boardwalk, and you’ll walk and it’s not crowded, so it’s perfect for who understands wildlife, especially ga- through a variety of different ecosys- some alone time. It’s a nice, simple, tors and water moccasins. Gators are of- tems from pine flatwoods, wet prairie, and easy hike with an outstanding view. ten on the trail, so beware and careful. 5. Gator Hook Trail stands of pond cypress, bald cypress, It’s 11.9 miles, but signs tell you your Gator Hook Trail is 4.7 miles of muddy and marsh. It’s also home to a ghost or- 2. Deep Hole exact distance and you don’t have to terrain off of Loop Road. This trail, al- chid that is visible during certain parts Deep Hole is located in Myakka State do the full trail. During the wet season, though difficult, has an interesting his- of the year- it’s very rarely in bloom. Park, which has a fee to enter. Deep many spots of the hike are submerged, tory. During the prohibition era, Loop You enter through a building with a Hole Trail is 4.4 miles long and offers so you’ll have to hike through puddles of Road was used by bootleggers, smug- little cafe, museum, and gift shop that little to no coverage, so avoid hiking water. With the distance and Florida’s gling alcohol from Cuba to Miami and then leads to the boardwalk. It’s an in- it on hot days. The hike brings you to heat, I recommend you bring more wa- Tampa. At the end of the road, there credibly safe hike, but it can be quite the deepest sinkhole in Florida that’s ter than you think you’ll need, as well as was a town called Pine Crest, which crowded. You have to go, tourist or not! filled with water and is currently home some snacks. Throughout the trail, there was a rather raucous area; definitely to over 100 alligators! The Deep Hole are many spots for a nice picnic and re- not suitable for children. The town has 3. Fakahatchee Hilton Trail is also a spot for bird watching. laxation. Once you’re done with the hike now disappeared into the wilderness Fakahatchee Hilton is a 5-mile hike just When the water levels are higher, you there are some good restaurants nearby and is left uninhabitable. Gator Hook west of Copeland, Florida. The trail won’t have access to Deep Hole or view such as a Mexican Restaurant called, Road, the influence for this trail’s name, leads to a beautiful lake with many alli- of the alligators, so keep this in mind Mi Ranchito. Overall, Bird Rookery is was sourced from the gator poaching gators. Though gators on the trail are when planning your hike. Once you a beautiful hike; just hike with caution. MAY 2021 FEATURESFEATURES 7 Day in the Destination: Yosemite National Park see Bridalveil Falls, to the left is El see Lower Yosemite Falls much better. By Kathryn Barry Capitan, and at the back is Half Dome. Now, after all that walking, As an avid summer-time trav- You will drive along the right time for some relaxation. On the loop, eler, I have visited some very inter- side of the loop until you get to the continue on and drive to near the base of esting places that are full of natural Mist Trail. The Mist Trail is the most El Capitan, where you will find a small wonder. Yet, one of the hardest things epic hike in the park because there are parking pullout. There is a little trail when it comes to travel is picking out huge views throughout the entire trail. for rock climbers, but instead, cross the what to do when you only have a short Unless you have permits and are will- street to another trail going along Dev- period of time. This article will pro- ing to spend the night on the trail, you il’s Elbow in the Merced River. The vide you with the “perfect day” at each will not want to go the whole way up to trail is the Yosemite Valley trail. We destination, to save you both the time the top of Half Dome. Since you only are only taking about 100 steps on this and hassle when making day plans. have one day, my recommendation is to trail because our goal is to get out to the Our location today is Yosem- Walking up the path towards Upper and Lower just hike up to the top of Vernal Falls. It Merced River. Here, there are small is- Yosemite Falls. ite National Park. It is located in the is a 7 mile round trip trail that is mod- lands with beaches and trees in the mid- middle of California, on the eastern erate, but at times can get strenuous. dle of the river where you will eat your in the spring. Taft Point shares a trail side. For the best waterfall experienc- The big sites along the trail include the second lunch under the shade. (When with Sentinel Dome, but once you get to es (aka most crazy), go in mid to late wide, raging Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls you wade out, it only goes up to your the fork early on, take the left one. It is spring or during the summer when the at the top, and the panoramic views knees, but the water is shockingly cold only a 2.2 mile round trip that is decent- snow is still melting off from winter. I throughout. Be sure to bring a raincoat to a Floridian.) This is a great place to ly easy with some elevation gain. The went during the summer in early July. because the mist from the waterfalls is spend the afternoon because of the up payoff pitch is enormous. Taft point is Yosemite is most known for its raging pretty intense (hence called the Mist close view of El Capitan. If you have far above El Capitan (which is absolute- waterfalls, towering granite monoliths, Trail). When you get to Nevada Falls, binoculars or really good eyes, you can ly huge) and above Yosemite Falls. It is and the Yosemite Valley, surround- be sure to go to the lookout where you see climbers on the face of the rocks. If one of the highest vantage points in the ed by huge granite rock faces. Most can look down directly over the wa- you’re brave like me and want to cool valley. When you get to Taft Point and know Yosemite for El Capitan and Half terfall and take in all of its power. At off, take a daring full body plunge into the Fissures, it can be overwhelming be- Dome, yet there is so much more Yo- the top is where to eat your early lunch the river. This spot is arguably my fa- cause of the height, so keep this in mind. semite has to offer. Since we are giv- and then head back down. This is a tru- vorite in the park because it is so se- Let’s just say that if you dropped a large en limited time, let’s hit the big sites! ly awesome hike that speaks for itself. cluded, and no one knows about it. dresser from the point, you would not To have the best day, you want Once you have completed that By now, it is approaching late be able to see it hit the ground, and to get up early, preferably around 6:00 feat, I would recommend continuing afternoon, so you want to get back on the would most likely lose sight of it well a.m., pack two “lunches” and get on the around the rest of the Yosemite Valley road again and complete the Yosemite before. There are a couple of guard road fast to beat the crowds. From the road loop. If you need snacks, bathroom Valley loop. If you want, go back and see rails on the point, so you can lean your entrance gate, you will want to drive to breaks, or places to rest for a while, there Tunnel View again, because this time, it head over the edge and look down. It the Yosemite Valley loop, the most fa- are plenty of lodges around the loop. will be lit up from the nearly setting sun. is definitely a reframing experience. mous road in the park. Along it, you Next, you will come across Our last spot to end the day will The sunset makes it that much better. will get a glimpse of “Tunnel View” Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls. If be going to Taft Point and the Fissures Congratulations! You made it and Bridalveil Falls as you drive along you are up for it, I would highly rec- at sunset. Once you exit the loop, head through one very epic day in Yosem- the right side of the loop. Tunnel View ommend taking the flat paved path that back towards the entrance and take ite. Although these are my top choic- is the most photographed place in the is only one mile round trip to the bot- Glacier Point Road up to the trailhead. es, there is so much more to explore. park because you can see many of the tom of Lower Yosemite Falls. As you This road is only open during the sum- You would need much more time iconic sites from there. It is looking walk down the path, you can see both mer and autumn months, so keep that than just a day to explore the majori- down the valley. To the right, you can upper and lower, but at the end, you can in mind if you are visiting Yosemite ty of Yosemite and all of its wonders. Juggling Life as a Teenager on their own. There are so many more Marco Island Academy goes through or sick in general makes keeping By Caitlyn Sadofsky things all thrown at once and we are similar struggles. When asked about good grades even more difficult. My mom has always told me expected to juggle it all with one hand. the hardest part of this school year, The one thing I always try to how proud she is of me. It makes me All of my time is often spread Lily says that, “Preparing for state test- remember is to be positive. As a soph- feel accomplished and proud of my- too thin between the demands of school, ing and being ready for all the exams omore in high school, I will admit that self, but then I remember that I still work, sports, and clubs. When I am has been hard. I’m not used to having there are many fun and exciting mem- have so much more to go. All that I’ve asked what I like to do in my free time, all the tests, and now I have like 20.” ories that you will make throughout accomplished could be washed down I never really have a definite answer. Marco Island Academy is a school your four years. School dances, sum- the drain with any mistake. That’s In reality, I don’t have much free time. that prepares students for the rigors of mer, and weekends will help create a lot of pressure for a 15-year-old. When I’m not doing homework, work- a college education. Being the num- some of the best memories of our lives. Adults always say that the ing, or physically at school, I’m get- ber one school with the highest test Even though it’s hard to juggle years spent in high school are the ones ting ready for bed or taking a shower. scores in all of Collier County, the test- school work, sports, my job, and volun- you will never forget. Who ever said When working seven hours both days ing season is the most stressful part of teering, I know that it will all pay off in this first forgot to mention that those of my weekend and almost every day the year for both students and staff. the end. High school so far has already years weren’t all sunshine and rain- throughout the week, things get stress- On top of the already stress- brought me so many unforgettable mem- bows. What they didn’t mention was ful. The fear of failure often burdens my ful workload that students face at ories and friendships. I can only hope the stress, the fear of disappointment, mind as I realize what’s expected of me. Marco Island Academy, many also that these four years really will prepare and the pressure of success. Once ev- I know that this stress is uni- take on jobs during the school year. me for ‘the real world’. I don’t want ery detail and factor of life is forced versal and everyone feels overwhelmed Charli Noyes, a sophomore at to let anyone down, especially myself. into our developing brains, we are set at times. Imed Bouchrika, an expert on Marco Island Academy, is one of these off on our own, hoping to succeed. Our the mental demands students face, of- students. She works three to four days intelligence is classified by a number or fers a variety of statistics on the star- a week at an ice cream shop right after letter that ultimately defines our future. tling increase in student stress. The ar- school for about five hours each day. High school is basically one big ticle states that, “Three quarters (75%) Along with work, she is an active mem- test to determine how capable a person of American high schoolers and half of ber in Key Club and track. Charli also ex- is to survive in ‘the real world’. It’s the middle schoolers described themselves periences the stress of academics, saying time to learn about priorities and how as ‘often or always feeling stressed’ by that, “The most stressful part of school is to get them straight. However, this isn’t schoolwork.” It’s likely that many stu- having the pressure of keeping all A’s.” something taught by teachers. Priorities dents at MIA are a part of that 75%. With COVID-19 still around, are the things someone must figure out Lily Douglas, a sophomore at missing school for being contact-traced Students feel the stress of academics. 8 FEATURESFEATURES MAY 2021 The Evolution of Liberty

representation as portraying an ‘Idiot’s ed until 1909, when it was replaced by eagle [8], featured a full-figure depiction By Colin Donegan head with flowing hair.’ The design was the Lincoln Wheat cent, which was the of Liberty in a flowing gown clenching Since the beginnings of a quickly revised in 1794, making way for first American coin to showcase a presi- a torch and an olive branch in her hands. young nation, the personification of a revamped Liberty that would remain dent. A similar design to the Indian Head Curbing to the universal displeasure that Liberty has played a prominent role on on the large cent for just three years. cent was featured on the Three-dollar the ‘Barber coinage’ received, the sil- American coinage. Two of the most By 1796, the ‘Flowing Hair’ de- gold piece, struck between 1854-1889. ver denominations underwent their own beloved designs of Liberty will return sign that appeared on numerous denomi- The Bland-Allison Act of 1878 changes in 1916. The new dime, quarter, in 2021 as silver commemoratives. nations had been replaced by the ‘Draped authorized the government to purchase and half dollar each featured their own Although its portrayals have Bust’ series [2]. The new design portrayed large quantities of silver to convert into designs, a departure from the shared de- adopted numerous changes over the Liberty donning drapery, and was present silver dollars. As a result of this legisla- signs of their historical predecessors. centuries, the depiction still remains on the obverse of all copper and silver tion, the United States Mint issued the The dime now displayed Liberty wear- a testament to the ideals of Ameri- coins minted from 1796-1807. Full of in- new ‘Morgan dollar,’ named after its de- ing a winged cap that closely resembled ca’s foundings; freedom, opportu- triguing history, these coins remain a testa- signer George T. Morgan [6]. The coin that of the Roman god Mercury [9]. nity, equality, and of course, liberty. ment to America’s early years, and are ex- would be minted from 1878-1904, and The new quarter displayed Lib- The imagery of Liberty has ex- tremely sought after among numismatists. once again in 1921. Its revolutionary erty in a standing position clasping an isted for millenia on coins, dating back design featured Liberty wearing a Phry- olive branch and a shield in hand [10]. to coins of the late Roman Republic, in 19th Century Liberty gian cap, decorated with a ribbon stuffed Designed before the United States en- which the Roman goddess Libertas was In 1807, yet another depiction of with wheat and cotton, a symbolic nod tered World War I, the design signified portrayed on countless government issues. Liberty came about, featured on the ob- to the country’s agricultural powerhouse America’s readiness for war or peace. When precursors to revolution initiated in verse of the half dime, dime, quarter, and long featured on American coinage. Rooted in patriotic symbolism, the early 1770s, Liberty’s personification half dollar. The new design, classified as The portrayal of Liberty on the Morgan the new half dollar [11] portrayed Liberty became growingly apparent in the colo- the ‘Capped Bust’ series [3], proved to be dollar is traditionalist in style, inspired in a walking stride, draped in the Amer- nies. Liberty became an allegorical repre- popular, as seen through the duration of its by classic Greek portraits and figures. ican flag and bearing branches of laurel sentation of the early American patriots, minting, which lasted as late as 1839. Now Designed by Chief Engraver and oak, significant of civil and - mili and served as a rivalry to Britannia, the facing left, the design showcased the bust Charles E. Barber, a new design of Lib- tary glory. Since its retirement in 1947, national personification of Great Britain. of Liberty, adorning a gown and an elegant erty came about in 1892 [7]. Highlighted the ‘Walking Liberty’ half dollar has re- cap. Liberty appears to be older and more on the new dime, quarter, and half dollar, mained the last circulating American coin Post Revolutionary Liberty matured, a comparison to America as an it was clear that the design was heavily to feature the personification of Liberty, as Under the Articles of Confedera- evolving and growing nation, flourishing inspired by the classical Roman woman. all denominations were replaced by por- tion, it was the responsibility of states to upon its success and accomplishments. Also influenced by the French coins of trayals of presidents or prominent figures. mint their own coins. The Coinage Act of In the 1830s Liberty was changed the time, the design of Liberty was rooted In December 1921, a new de- 1792 established national coinage and de- once again. The new portrayal, classified in the traditional European style. Liber- sign of Liberty appeared on the ‘Peace nominations, along with the United States as the ‘Seated Liberty’ series, was present ty’s design on the coins was the center of dollar’ [12], which commemorated the Mint in Philadelphia. The legislation on most silver coins from 1836-1891 [4]. public dissatisfaction, and was criticized end of World War I. A symbol of chang- called for the obverse (front of the coin) of The design depicted Liberty in full figure for its visually unappealing design; the ing times during the 1920s, Liberty ap- coins to be inscribed with the word ‘Lib- seated upon a rock, grasping a Phrygian appearance only got worse after the coins peared younger and to have taken on the erty,’ along with her imagery and the date. cap topped on a liberty pole, popular rep- were worn slick due to heavy circulation. style of a flapper. A Philadelphia based The depiction of an allegorical figure rep- resentations of freedom and liberty made publication stated that Liberty ‘has lost resenting an American ideal on a coin was popular by the French Revolution of the 20th Century Liberty her Greek profile’ and that the Helenic much more pleasing to the masses than a late 18th century. Another indication of The years 1907-1916 marked beauty of its predecessor had been ‘su- sitting president, which was deemed too its French inspiration, the new design the beginning of the ‘Renaissance Era’ perseded by the newer ‘flapper’ type.’ monarchical by President Washington. closely replicated the 1794 painting, La of American coinage, in which the most In 1793, the first federal issue liberté, by painter Nanine Vallain. Lib- iconic and timeless coin designs would The 21st Century And Beyond intended for circulation was released. erty’s representation in the Seated Lib- emerge. Under the guidance from nu- Although Liberty has not been Dubbed the ‘Chain Cent,’ the large copper erty series is regarded as neoclassicist in merous presidential administrations, the featured on any circulating coin since cent featured Liberty with flowing hair on style, which experienced a height in pop- United States Mint revamped every ex- 1947, many portrayals of the icon- the obverse, whose untied hair symbolized ularity during the Age of Enlightenment. isting denomination during this period. ic American figure have appeared on America’s newfound freedom [1]. A linked 1859 marked the first year in In 1907 and 1908, the gold coins were non-circulating modern commemoratives chain representing the newly unified states which the iconic ‘Indian Head cent’ was revamped, replacing the ‘Liberty Head’ and bullion issues. To commemorate the dominated the reverse, or back of the coin. minted [5]. The design featured Liberty gold pieces which had been struck since 100th anniversary of the simultaneous The design was met with dis- wearing the headdress of a Native Amer- as early as 1838. Similar to the Indian minting of the Morgan and Peace dol- approving opposition from the public; ican chief, and was the size of a mod- Head cent, the new $10 gold piece por- lar in 1921, the United States Mint will an article in the Boston Argus publica- ern-day cent, a contrast to the size of its trayed Liberty wearing a feathered Na- bring back both designs as a silver com- tion went as far to describe Liberty as pre-1857 predecessors that were nearly tive American war bonnet. The new $20 memorative not intended for circulation. ‘in a fright,’ and a letter described the the size of a half dollar. The design last- gold piece, the Saint-Gaudens double MAY 2021 FEATURESFEATURES 9 Glitter and Gold ganized playlist was run by Chris ship, and Kendall Jacobs. The boys court al slow dance followed with king and By Abigail Gallup Dayett, acting as DJ for the night. consisted of Luis Aguilar, Joseph Krepel, queen dancing first and the rest of On May 15th, Marco Island A prom court of four girls and four Johnathan Watt, and Jacob Niedbalski. the court following shortly thereafter. Yacht Club hosted the MIA prom. boys which were voted upon earlier in the After the votes were count- The night was one to remember and The night was filled with week. The girls court consisted of Reese ed, Jacobs and Watt were crowned MIA’s Class of 2021will surely be missed. dinner and dancing as a student or- Jones, Casey Erickson, Emma Blanken- Prom Queen and King. The tradition-

Alex Winnik and Reese Jones. Isabella Portu, Isabella Burgos, and Sophia Lowrie.

John Creedon and Allan Borges. Hannah Jahn and Noah Blaskovich.

Cadence Snover and Jocelyn Snover. Michael Camacho and Hailey Cartwright.

Quintin Fitton and Kendall Jacobs. Prom King, Johnathan Watt and Prom Queen Kendall Jacobs. Peyton Phillips and Charli Noyes.

Kaleb Chamberlain, Nate Thompson, Grant Brusco, Michael Camacho, Peyton Phillips, Matthew Vergo, Peter Morales, Spencer Siems and Nicholas Vergo. 10 CLASSCLASS OFOF 20212021 GRADUATESGRADUATES MAY 2021

Luis Aguilar Keaton Ashby Nicholas Baker Kevin Barry Emma Blankenship Allan Borges Florida State University Workforce Military Rice University Florida State University Florida Atlantic Universityw

John Creedon Rachel Drake Casey Erickson Michael Fabregas Grace Fields Amelia Fontella Florida Gulf Coast University Florida SouthWestern State College Florida State University Florida Gulf Coast University University of Hartford Florida SouthWestern State College

Aidan Libby Brooklyn Long Danyell Long Vanessa Lopez-Ortega Morgan Maile Sutton Miller Florida State University Florida SouthWestern State College Florida SouthWestern State College University of Arizona Lynn University Florida Gulf Coast University

Peyton Phillips Nicole Politi Kirra Polley Jose Puell Connor Ragan Juan Rojas Workforce Florida Atlantic University Nova Southeastern University University of Florida Workforce Florida SouthWestern State College

Julian Totten Matthew Vergo Johnathan Watt Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Gulf Coast University University of Florida MAY 2021 CLASSCLASS OFOF 20212021 GRADUATESGRADUATES 11

Russell Brueckner Grant Brusco Michael Camacho Hailey Cartwright Tyler Chute Cody Couture Lorenzo Walker Technical College Workforce Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida Atlantic University Workforce

Koby Garcia-Lopez Kyler Howard Kendall Jacobs Reese Jones Joseph Krepel Christopher Lewandowski Florida SouthWestern State College Florida International University Florida State University Florida State University University of Florida Florida Gulf Coast University

Peter Morales Zeke Morris Nate Nicholas Jacob Neidbalski Reese Pawlowski Eddie Perez Auburn University Trade School Florida Gulf Coast University Florida State University Florida Gulf Coast University

Sofia Saavedra Taylor Savage Jasmin Schauer Spencer Siems Bridget Sweeney Megan Sweeney Trade School Florida Atlantic University Florida Atlantic University Florida Gulf Coast University Florida SouthWestern State College Florida SouthWestern State College Marco Island Academy Class of 2021 12 HEALTHHEALTH SCIENCESCIENCE MAY 2021 Piney Point Information: Leaked gypsum can pose some carcinogenic However, it is a wave that continues By Haylen Irvan risks. This means that the contamina- to wash over the environment, con- Toxic wastewater rushing into tion of local water sources can result stantly knocking it down before it has nearby neighborhoods does not sound in various cancers. Phosphogypsum the chance to get back up. Phosphate like a particularly pleasant accompani- is known to have radioactive qualities mines are littered along Florida’s west ment to the Easter weekend. However, with the presence of Uranium and Tho- coast along with some inland areas this was the case for Manatee County, rium. So, it’s probably not something and there are more than most realize. Florida on Saturday, April 3rd, 2021. you want in your backyard. As soon as the word “radioactive” was leaked, peo- When Did All of this Start? The Event ple began panicking- and rightfully so. Piney Point was a phosphate A wastewater reservoir be- mine 20 years ago, but all that remains gan leaking toxic material that has Where is this a Problem? is an abandoned reservoir containing the potential to be hazardous to the Phosphate plants are not all that stacks of phosphogypsum. In 2001, the surrounding areas. This reservoir unique. In fact, Florida is home to 27 plant closed due to bankruptcy and the potentially long term effects.” These is associated with the Piney Point phosphate plants, nine of which are ac- Mulberry Corporation handed the prop- unspecified ‘long term effects’ are the phosphate plant in Manatee County. tive. The Piney Point incident occurred erty over to the Environmental Protec- reason that many are questioning the at one of these abandoned facilities, tion Agency. A company known as HRK legitimacy of the government’s conclu- Who is Involved? where sedimentary rock is mined to use then took the property in 2006. Phos- sions regarding the leak. The demand Several news stations briefly re- in fertilizers. Here in Florida, it may not phate has a shady past with government for change has increased as the conse- ported on the toxic leak, but there are be a surprise that we have had issues with agencies like the EPA. In 1994, there quences of this leak grow in severity. still many people who are unaware of fertilizers in the past. An overabundance was a voluntary ban in the United States ManaSota-88 is a nonprofit or- the current conditions. Florida Governor of nutrient-high runoff has resulted in a in which there was a general consensus ganization that has spent years trying to Ron DeSantis toured the area and gave phenomenon known as red tide. Red tide to ban the use of phosphate in detergent fight for the health of Florida’s environ- a few comments about the situation, occurs when the nutrient-rich fertilizer because of its negative effects. The idea ment. The organization specifically fo- “What we are looking at now is trying to is dumped into large bodies of water, of radioactive detergent certainly pushed cuses on phosphate mining, oil drilling, prevent, and respond to, if need be, a real which eventually results in algal blooms many to agree and follow the ban. pesticides, and even plastic bags. Glen catastrophic flood situation.” DeSantis and oxygen dead zones. Red tide is an Compton, the Chairman of the nonprof- has expressed his concern for the flood- issue every year and alleviation efforts Why You Should Care? it, told me that, “The citizens of Florida ing, rather than the water quality issue. continue to be put on the back burner. Not only does the leak pose should know who is in control of the This is in great contrast to the immedi- health concerns for us, but the envi- future of our environment and our pock- What They’re Not Telling You ate attention placed on the Piney Point ronmental impact is significant. As etbooks.” He continued on to explain So what happens if humans leak. However, this immediate attention humans, we must remember that we how taxpayers have contributed to Pin- are directly exposed to the contaminat- has since been distorted into a govern- are sharing our environment with oth- ey Point in an attempt to make it more ed water? A scientific study from 2019 mental attempt to cover up this envi- er species, it is not ours. However, we secure and environmentally-stable. showed that daily exposure to phospho- ronmental catastrophe under the rug. must uphold certain duties by question- However, millions of dollars were go- The problem is that you can’t ing the corresponding legislature and ing to waste because of the recent leak. ignore an entire ecosystem that is hurt- improving it for the better. Multiple This leak has already caused ing. Florida is home to some of the most reports indicate that Florida’s Envi- much more damage than expected. complex ecosystems, but these diverse ronmental Department has complete- The economy, our ecosystem, and lo- habitats could all become a thing of ly denied the significance of the leak. cal communities are already begin- the past if this problem continues to Jim McCarthy is a board mem- ning to face the ‘long term effects’. endanger the flora and fauna that have ber on the Environmental Regula- The phrase, ‘see something, say some- been so carefully protected. Industri- tion Commission for Florida and after thing’ still applies. Now that you see al advancements have so far proven speaking with him, he told me, “The it, it is your turn to say something. to be one of man’s waves of success. leak at Piney Point is a disaster with Plastic Alternatives: Reusable Options the body and have the potential to cause tic as it is made of organic rather than to leading brands, which cost about By Isabella Portu health issues. Although many are unfa- synthetic material. Seaweed plastic is $2.00 for a pack of 50. The protection From ‘trash island’, to plas- miliar with it’s more scientific name, a also very environmentally friendly as of our environment doesn’t have to be tic straws killing the sea turtles, over plastic known as polyvinyl chloride is it degrades much quicker than most expensive, which is why I recommend a million marine animals are killed a common chemical in food packaging, other substitutions and does not re- reusable items like glass and stainless from plastic every year. Given the plastic wrap, cosmetics, and even pac- lease any harsh chemicals into the sur- steel that only require a single purchase. technological advancements of our ifiers. Despite its popularity in various rounding ecosystems as it degrades. Living on such a beautiful, di- time, it is unacceptable that we contin- industries, polyvinyl has been known Personally, I think the glass, verse island comes with more respon- ue to utilize such harmful materials in to result in problems including cancers, stainless steel, and cloth options are the sibilities, as it is up to us to take care products we use every day. Here are ulcers, and liver dysfunction. Polycar- most sustainable options. Investment- of our beaches and protect the eco- some more environmentally friend- bonate, another common plastic, is seen ing into these durable products only re- systems surrounding us. The smallest ly options to use in place of plastic. most frequently in water bottles. Like quires a one-time purchase and allows changes make the biggest differences One way to avoid the overuse polyvinyl, ingestion of polycarbonate the consumer to get hundreds of uses and in the conscious decision to invest of plastic is by investmenting in more can also result in adverse side effects in- out of a single product. As for commer- in sustainable products can lead to a sustainable alternatives that are made of cluding cancers, impaired immune func- cial use, like in restaurants, I believe healthier planet and a better tomorrow. glass, stainless steel, or cloth. These re- tion, and other long term conditions. there should be stricter regulations on usable options can be kept from months As scientists continue to engi- which plastic is used, as well as what to years as opposed to plastic, which is neer more biodegradable plastics, they take out products are used given that typically single-use. Not only are these are fortunately becoming more main- this industry often utilizes single-use, products healthier for our planet as they stream and readily available to manu- non-compostable plastics. In some cas- help reduce carbon emissions into our facturers and consumers alike. One of es, the environmentally friendly options atmosphere, but these products are of- the most interesting of biodegradable are much more expensive, which is why ten healthier options for ourselves as plastics that has grown in popularity many restaurants are hesitant to imple- well. Certain types of plastic such as is actually made from seaweed. This ment them. The average cost of an en- polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, and plastic is free from any of the harsh vironmentally-friendly paper plate is polystyrene can be very damaging to chemicals seen in the current plas- about $7.00 for a pack of 50, compared MAY 2021 HEALTHHEALTH SCIENCESCIENCE 13 How Sunscreen is Affecting Our Oceans unnecessary stress on the coral and de- tems in marine life if they are exposed By Madison Moyer creases the coral’s ability to protect it- to it. In many fish and marine mammals, We use sunscreen to protect self. During the bleaching process, coral Octinoxate can cause miscarriages, sex ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays, expels algae from within its tissue and changes, egg reductions, behavioral but have we ever thought about what ultimately releases all nutrients. Algae changes, disruptions in estrogen, and it’s doing to our ocean’s wildlife? is important to these corals as the algae even immune reductions. Statistically, Sunscreen is made up of an helps the coral remove waste and pro- marine wildlife like parrotfish, which assortment of chemicals, which can be duce oxygen. These conditions usual- help clean reef algae, dolphins, which both helpful and harmful. Even though ly lead to the death of these creatures, help keep the balance of the ocean by sunscreen helps to protect our skin and as of now, more than 50% of our eating other animals, and wrasses, from the sun’s damaging rays, it can world’s coral has been destroyed, with which help with reducing anxiety lev- beeswax, Raw Elements, which is bio- also severely damage marine ecosys- Oxybenzone being one of the lead- els in the ocean, have all been found degradable and reef-friendly and so tems. As we swim in the ocean, these ing causes. The loss of this coral is so to be affected by Octinoxate the most. many others. These brands don’t include chemicals wash off of us and end up vital because not only does it protect Sadly, the animals who have been ex- any dangerous chemicals and are all making their way into our waters where our coastlines from things like erosion posed usually end up dying, which can reef safe, which allows us to keep both they attack our coral reefs, fish, eels and heavy storms, but it also provides be detrimental to the species over time. our skin and marine wildlife protected. and other things that live in the ocean. many with food, and in some instanc- Today, there are over thousands The only way we can ensure One chemical that has perfected es, a source of medicine. Antiviral drugs of different sunscreen brands around our oceans are protected is by making the art of coral destruction is Oxyben- Ara-A and AZT are both medicines that the world, each with their own ingredi- more mindful choices about what we zone. Oxybenzone is a UV ray blocker have been developed from extracts of ent list and chemical makeup. Around are putting into them. When purchas- that is put into most sunscreen products. sponges found in the Caribbean reefs, a quarter of these lists have harmful ing sunscreen, it is important to know While Oxybenzone may be beneficial and without these reeds, we would no chemicals like Oxybenzone or Octinox- which chemicals are unsafe and check to humans, it’s extremely damaging longer be able to access these medicines. ate, that can be incredibly damaging to the ingredient list to ensure that it ex- to our coral reefs. This chemical con- Along with coral, many oth- ocean ecosystems. Although there are cludes chemicals that could cause our tributes to coral bleaching and several er marine animals are harmed by the many harmful sunscreens, there are wildlife harm. By taking the time to studies have shown that Oxybenzone chemicals in sunscreen. Octinoxate is also some safer alternative sunscreens make a conscious and informed deci- also damages the DNA of young coral a chemical that protects humans from like Hello Bello, which is vegan and sion, we can prevent the further degra- reefs and disrupts their normal growth the sun’s UV rays, but can also damage cruelty-free, Raw Love, which includes dation of our oceans and become part and development. Bleaching inflicts the reproductive and neurological sys- natural ingredients like coconut oil and of the solution rather than the problem. Back the Vac health problems. Some of those peo- get the vaccine to protect themselves. at the prom, hugging your grand- By Lexi Smith ple aren’t able to receive certain shots With compromised im- ma, or going to sports events with- As the United States starts to and vaccines- even something as simple mune systems people are at a high- out feeling the tension of social dis- recover from the global pandemic, the as the flu vaccine could be harmful to er risk of infection from colds and tance. But the effects of a vaccinated country has begun to lessen restrictions. someone with a weak immune system. viruses. With 583,000 Coronavirus world would not be exclusively small. Businesses and companies are allow- Due to the fact that I have deaths in the United States alone, Once herd immunity is finally ing people to return to work, and some chronic Lyme disease, I fall into the im- it’s hard to imagine what it could do reached, the United States will experi- schools are allowing in-person instruc- munocompromised category. With this to an immunocompromised person. ence a restoration of normality that lifts tion. Lockdowns are starting to ease and diagnosis I cannot receive certain vac- An increase in vaccina- the entire country on a national level. the country has begun its road to recovery. cines, including the flu shot. Because of tion rates and herd immunity is cru- The economy will flourish more than As the United States gains my weak immune system, I cannot re- cial for the protection of our entire ever before, as reborn industries facili- control over the pandemic, the amount ceive the COVID vaccine. This is wor- population, which plays into the tate commerce and the flow of money. of people receiving vaccinations has risome because if the people around me fulfillment of the social contract. The government funded vaccine will started to decline. With fewer indi- aren’t protected from COVID, they can For young people, the slow re- eventually pay off and set the country viduals willing to take the vaccine, easily give it to me. Since I am unable to turn to normalcy may be about the lit- on a newfound road to success, made the country has grown further away get the vaccine, I am relying on the peo- tle things- dancing with your friends possible by those becoming vaccinated. from the possibility of herd immunity. ple around me to At this point, herd immunity help protect me. isn’t a solidified percentage of the pop- When ulation. Dr. Anthony Fauci said, “We people who are need to have some humility here,” when not immunocom- describing the projected numbers for promised receive herd immunity. Dr. Fauci later remarked a vaccine, they that “newer surveys said 60 percent or might feel symp- more would take it.” The move toward tomatic for a day herd immunity requires the majority or so and then of the population to receive the vacci- feel better the nation and abide by the social contract. next day. For an Every person in the United immunocompro- States has a “social contract.” The so- mised individu- cial contract outlines the obligations al like myself, I of the people in which they follow to feel symptoms protect the society in which they live. for a week and Their duty is to protect both the ma- in some instanc- jority and the minority within the so- es, I’m forced to cial contract. Every citizen is directly miss school de- responsible for their contribution in pending on the se- protecting vulnerable people with- verity. Reaching in both our local and national groups. herd immunity Throughout the world, there are would help pro- people of all varieties that have weak tect people like immune systems and/or coinciding me who cannot 14 OPINIONOPINION MAY 2021 He Said, She Said: Court Packing There is no text in the Consti- teenth century during the presidencies Supporters say that packing By Colin Donegan tution that prevents the addition of Su- of John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. the court will ensure that the unethi- Introduction: preme Court justices, but Congress can During the mid-nineteenth century, the cal promotion of Justice Barrett will Months ago, former President change this by advancing an act that justice count on the Supreme Court not undermine the democratic princi- Donald J. Trump nominated Federal has to be signed by the sitting presi- fluctuated, and eventually returned to ples of the United States. Opponents Circuit Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the dent. The first incarnation of the Su- the count of nine justices that we have say, court packing is a radical proposal Supreme Court of the United States. She preme Court was established with the today. President Franklin D. Roosevelt to unfairly overthrow the partisan ma- was confirmed to the Supreme Court as passing of the Judiciary Act of 1789, proposed the Judicial Procedures Re- jority of the court that was achieved an Associate Justice on October 27th, which issued six justices to the high form Bill in 1937, which suggested justly and through due process. 2020. The addition of Justice Barrett con- court. The number of justices on the the addition of justices to the Supreme tributed to a 6:3 conservative majority. Supreme Court shifted in the early nine- Court, but this plan ultimately failed.

He Said: plained that “packing the court means Ilhan Omar are some of the only Demo- through these statistics which numbers Court packing is a ridiculous one very specific thing: expanding the crats that openly support court packing. well outside the poll’s margins of error. attempt to gain political power unjustly number of justices to achieve a politi- The reason that the mainstream Dem- Adversaries frequently spec- and a last minute solution to dissolve a cal outcome. It is wrong. It is an abuse ocratic party does not support court ulate on how the confirmation of As- fair and just majority. During his ten- of power.” As highlighted by Cruz, packing is because they know that it is a sociate Justice Amy Coney Barrett ure, former President Trump had the court packing is an unjust, last min- preposterous and unjust proposition that would affect certain groups of people. full right to nominate Associate Jus- ute, attempt to gain power unlawfully. could cost them political power. This Going off topic, they conjecture on tices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, Additionally, even Senator Joe was seen in the results of the 2020 Con- the potential decisions that the credi- and Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Biden denounced court packing. In a gressional Elections, where Democrats ble academic may make on the bench, Court of the United States. He fairly did 1983 hearing, Biden called President came very close to losing their majori- instead of citing solid reasons why this within the boundaries of his power Franklin D. Roosevelt’s attempt to pack ty in the House of Representatives. The packing the court would be beneficial. as president, therefore legally changing the Supreme Court a “bonehead idea.” fact that court packing remains a pro- Court packing would also sab- the makeup of the court in the favor of He continued by stating that it was: “a gressive ideology favored by few, shows otage the process of judicial review, the Republican Party. Outraged by the terrible, terrible mistake to make, and how uncommon and abnormal it really whose role is featured prominently in president’s opportunities and actions it put in question, for an entire decade, is, and reiterates my argument to how Alexander Hamilton’s Federalist No. of appointing three justices to the high the independence of the most signifi- it should never belong in our republic. 78. The opposition claims that this in- court in one term, many support court cant body—including the Congress in The opposing argument often formation is outdated, but I beg to dif- packing in order to balance out the par- my view—the most significant body in claims that the American people should fer. Hamilton, along with the other great ty demographics of the justices. How- this country, the Supreme Court of the decide the fate of the Supreme Court, minds that built this country, established ever, this “cheats” the system in order United States of America.” As Biden and whether to add additional justices and proposed ideas for some of the most to increase political power, no matter called attention to in this statement, or not. Just like any other president in important institutions today, and their which political party attempts this. packing the court would also threaten history, former President Trump had the accomplishments and wise ideas paved In order to better understand the balance and separation of powers, full rights to appoint justices to the court the way for generations to come and are the absurdity of court packing, I’ll use to which this country’s governmental that fit within his beliefs. In other words, still applicable to modern day problems. an analogy. Imagine you are playing systems so heavily rely on. Building it has been tradition that Supreme Court As seen in the evidence and your favorite game, and you are losing. off of history, Biden’s quote shows Justices are appointed by the President analysis above, court packing theory Instead of waiting until you will have that some Democrats also view court of the United States, who was elected blatantly disregards the visions that the leverage over your opponent, you just packing as an unnecessary manipula- by the people to represent them for four founding fathers had for our great con- rewrite the rules of the game in order to tion to acquire political advantages. years, not three and a half. In a New stitutional republic. After all, the Su- win. The same can be said about court Although opponents would ar- York Times and Siena College poll, preme Court of the United States has packing; the Democrats have realized gue that packing the court is not a new 58% of respondents stated that the size had a total of nine justices since 1869, that they are losing the game that is the idea, they usually fail to mention the fact of the court should not be increased, so why change it now over 150 years Supreme Court due to the fact that Re- that it still remains a radical idea. Cur- where just 31% responded that the court later? The late liberal Associate Justice publican justices outnumber them by rently, packing the court is only support- should be filled with additional justices. Ruth Bader Ginsburg said that “Nine double. Instead of waiting until they are ed by only the most progressive mem- So if you were to let the American peo- [Justices] seems to be a good number. in power, Democrats propose rewriting bers of the Democratic Party. Radical ple decide whether to pack the Supreme It’s been that way for a long time.” the rules and adding additional justices left-wing representatives like “Squad” Court of the United States, they would unjustly in order to win the “game.” members Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and overwhelmingly denounce it, as seen If either party turns to court packing as their solution to “fixing” one party’s majority, they will undermine the democratic principles of justice and the judiciary-the system that was put in place to resolve conflict and legal disputes. In essence, the goal of court packing was to change the political makeup of the court, and the contradic- tory solution is by adding more partisan justices, now just in one party’s favor. Therefore, the United States must firm- ly keep its nine justice Supreme Court, in order to prevent political games from threatening and overthrowing the fair majority of the court. The traditional demographics should be ensured, and one party should not be given additional justices on the court for the mere reason they are down a few in a fair system. As many political leaders have pointed out, packing the Supreme Court is just another absurd partisan at- tempt. Texas Senator Ted Cruz warned Americans to not “be fooled by Dem- ocrats’ hyperbolic rhetoric,” and ex- MAY 2021 OPINIONOPINION 15 He Said, She Said: Court Packing The comparison of the feat. Let’s not pretend that the nom- The opponents evidence em- By Abigail Gallup highest court to a simplified game is not ination of Justice Barrett was any- bodies The Federalist Papers written She Said: only unfair but shows a lack of judge- thing but the last political Hail Mary in 1788 and an oversimplified version After serving a remarkable thir- ment. What the adversary fails to men- before a close and tense campaign in of the Supreme Court. The use of the teen years on the Supreme Court, the tion is that the initial “rules” that were which Donald J. Trump would lose. word “radical” and the fear monger- Honorable Ruth Bader Ginsburg has set for Obama were then dismissed for The Americans have the right to ing that Ted Cruz and Donald Trump been replaced with the controversial Trump. I propose this question, have vote in a president who nominates the are notorious for will not stand. The Justice Amy Coney Barrett. Regard- you ever played a game where the refer- justice to represent the United States, not issue of packing the court exceeds a less of the current president, the issue ee changes the rules half way through? just the ideals of the Republican Party. party issue but goes to the standing of regarding packing the court faces two In the beginning half of this hypotheti- The argument could be made that if Don- America’s democratic foundation. It obstacles, one being the realistic abil- cal game, former President Obama was ald Trump had won the election he had is not our place to assume the stand- ity to pass an increase in justices, and refused an appointment nine months every right to nominate this Justice, but ings of the American people nor is it secondly, the morality of the decision. before the election date. This decision he didn’t. He did not win, and the Amer- the place to divide this country further. Court packing is a historical decision was made on the basis that the next ican people have spoken. The majority No longer will the American but one that will ensure that the Amer- president should elect the justice to give of the country, both in electoral votes voice be disparaged. The packing of the ican people have their voice heard and the people an indirect say in the nom- and popular votes, do not want Donald court should undergo a direct referen- represented through the Supreme Court. ination process. In the second half of What some call a “changing of the game, the referee, in this case the the rules” has already been established Senate, allowed for Trump to appoint a through written legislation submitted justice during the election. In this analo- by Franklin D. Roosevelt. Although gy, the initial rules were altered to favor this did not pass, the concept of adding former President Trump, so no won- up to 15 justices has already seen sup- der the other “team” seeks to right the port. Packing the court is by no way a wrong through the packing of the court. new or radical idea, as this concept was “The American people are perfectly ca- not only seen, but supported in 1937. pable of having their say on this issue, The change of legislation and addition so let’s give them a voice. Let’s let the of justices is the natural evolution of a American people decide,” Mitch Mc- democratic state. This evolution is inev- Connell, the Republican Senate ma- itable, especially in such turbulent times jority leader, declared when Obama when civil rights and women’s rights are sought to nominate a Supreme Court at the forefront of the conversation. As Justice. There is no written rule that former President Trump stated, “What determines the applicable timeline to separates the winners from the losers is the nomination of a justice. During the how a person reacts to each new twist 2016 election the precedent was set of fate.” The people are being met with that a nominee could not be appointed a new twist of fate and we must re- within a year of the election. Lindsay spond accordingly. The application Graham, a head Republican Senator Trump to lead the U.S., which includes dum to reflect the voice of the American of this legislation would undoubtedly explicitly stated that, “We are setting the responsibility to select justices. people, the voice that was dismissed by meet opposition from the congressional a precedent here today, Republicans In the opponents previously our incumbent President Donald Trump. committee as well as the general public, are, that in the last year… you’re not said argument, there is a hyperfixation Whether the American people decide but we must pursue this line of inquiry. going to fill a vacancy of the Supreme to conserve this distorted version of for or against packing the court, our Regardless of the possibility of Court.” Furthermore, Lindsay Graham what our Founding Fathers wanted for voice will be heard. According to Gal- accomplishment we must address the goes as far as to say, “That’s going to our country. The time for change is now, lup Polls, 46% percent of people are not ethical question. This kind of question is be the new rule. When y’all changed the and we the people have a fundamental in favor of the Amy Coney Barrett nom- hard to address, but I look to the general rules… I thought it was a really abuse duty to carry out what our Founding ination. This 46% percent is the highest behavior of the two parties for an an- of power.” This quote speaks for itself, Fathers wanted in application to mod- disapproval rate in thirty three years. swer. The opponent clearly supports the the appointment of this justice during ern time. As James Madison historically This poll only highlights the political idea that packing the court is an unethi- an election was an abuse of power. remarked in his Report of a Constitu- division between our people. Let’s not cal changing of the rules. Their analogy Within weeks of the 2020 election, that tion or Form of Government in the year assume the position of Americans, let’s is nothing more than a logical fallacy. precedent was dismissed and the nomi- 1779, “Government is instituted for the offer a direct referendum which would This analogy employs a false nation of Amy Coney Barrett was accept- common good…” and “not for the prof- give the opportunity to embody what equivalency, relating the Supreme Court ed. This hypocrisy and denial of prec- it, honor, or private interest of any man, the citizens of the United States want. to a game which can be won or lost and edent only highlights the “changing of family, or class of men.” Furthermore, Amy Coney Barrett was Don- the Constitution to the rules of said the rules.” So let us answer that call. Let the diversity of representation seen with- ald Trump’s choice, not the American game. The court has not been changed us, the American people, decide the leg- in our current political climate is dras- peoples and now it is our time to pro- in 150+ years, so it’s clear that this islation and ultimate fate of this country. tically different from that of the white, tect the values of both the majority complex issue goes far beyond a winner Former President Trump nom- male, land owning population that the and minorities that create the diversity and a loser. The Supreme Court is not inated and approved a conservative Founding Fathers accommodated when so celebrated by the American people. something to be won but it is something justice just weeks before an increas- writing our Constitution. It is the God Change is natural with the progres- to be honored with respect and reserve ingly divisive election in which he given right to vote and to be heard and sion of time, and this change will pro- with a focus on nonpartisan justices. would lose, and refuses to admit de- that is the power of the American people. tect the lives and validity of minority

Solutions: circuit panels to rule on a higher number and are ignored by the Supreme Court would help to alleviate partisan ten- As the late Senator John Lew- of cases, and the removal of partisan pol- because of the lack of space and low- sions and operations, and increase the is famously said, “Democracy is not a itics from the Supreme Court altogether. er level conflict. With the addition of justices adherence to the Constitu- state. It is an act,” It is the responsibility A possible change would be smaller circuit courts these sitting cases tion rather than their political party. of the United States to create legisla- the addition of term caps which would can be judged and the overall judicial The beauty of a democracy tion that favors the majority. In order to limit the number of years a sitting system will work in further cooperation. lies within the convergence of differ- find this majority we must compromise. judge can serve as well as the inabil- Another possible settlement ing opinions to meet at a majority ruled Common ground is the foundation for ity to be reelected. This would help would be the removal of justices agreement. These compromises fund the a good compromise. Our compromise to prevent and possibly remove par- that directly associate with a politi- growth and development of the United may start with maximum caps on term ty bias from those sitting on the court. cal party. Although this leans closer to States and it is invaluable to the dem- lengths, a higher dependency on smaller Oftentimes cases sit in line the unrealistic side of solutions, this ocratic processes of our great republic. 16 OPINIONOPINION MAY 2021 It’s Rabbit Season educate consumers and call out brands procedure usually results in skin ir- By Paola Cortazar who continue to use animal testing. ritation, cracking, or even bleeding. ‘...well, without you The question arises if ani- With the goal in mind to claim and countries that allow ani- mal testing is even necessary. Cur- the product ‘safe for human usage’ the mal testing, I’d be out of a job. rently, there are existing alternatives Draize tests are ultimately invalidated. I’d be on the streets- well not the streets, to animal testing in the cosmetic in- Rabbits are typically only used because more like a field I guess... dustry that reduces harm completely. they are cheaper, easier to handle, and you know, like a normal rabbit’ Rabbit Testing: easier to breed as opposed to any other A viral short story has con- Annually, hundreds of thou- animal. However, the anatomical differ- sumers shaking their heads as it expos- sands of rabbits, like Ralph are used ences between a human and a rabbit make es the cruel reality of animal testing. for experimentation with cosmet- the tests out to be extremely unreliable. Humane Society Interna- ic products. Specifically, most rab- Alternatives to An- tional posted a four-minute video bits fall subject to the Draize Eye imal Testing Exist called ‘Save Ralph’ on YouTube, and Skin Irritancy Tests wherein Many cruelty-free cosmetic brands, such which now runs close to 11 mil- the short film, Ralph experienced. as The Body Shop, have stuck with ingre- lion views in less than 3 weeks. The Draize Eye and Skin Irritan- dients qualified to be ’safe for human us- The content of the short story cy Test was developed in the 1940s. It is age’. This category of ingredients is typ- itself pertains to a rabbit named Ralph responsible for the restraint and testing ically all-natural, made up of fruits such who ‘works’ in a laboratory serving of harmful chemicals on animals. There as bananas, or even oils such as nut oil. as an animal test subject. Throughout are different procedures to each test. Even if not reliant on natural the video, he sarcastically describes In the eyes test, the rabbits’ ingredients, cosmetic companies have the harm brought to him as necessary paws are restrained to prevent interfer- other alternatives to testing their prod- for protecting humans. As the video Ralph the Rabbit has sparked controversy regard- ence with the experiments. From there ucts. The most popular being a recent- ing the ethics of animal testing. progresses, Ralph’s condition wors- on, they proceed to have chemicals ly developed synthetic cellular tissue ens starting with blindness and even- dripped into their eyes. It usually results that is similar to human skin. Tests like sideration towards animals’ well-being tually closing with respiratory distress. in swelling, redness, or even blindness. EpiDerm™ and EpiSkin™ have the and quality of living. Moreso, the idea of This short story advocates In the skin test, rabbits’ skin capability to replace the Draize Skin sacrificing animals to something so sub- against animal testing in the cosmet- gets shaved or scraped. Again, they and Eye irritation tests completely. jective in society, like cosmetics, is not ic industry. This social media move- are restrained to prevent experiment With this technology, the ability justifiable. These lab animals typically ment has utilized many hashtags such interference. From there on, the chem- to completely eliminate animal testing is die at the hands of experimenters and as ‘#becrueltyfree’ and ‘#saveralph’ to icals are smeared onto their skin. This possible. There is clearly a lack of con- this cruel practice must come to an end. Art Depreciation our girl. She vowed Our girl was able to rigor, while delving into their interests. By Kathryn Barry to work harder than relax and thrive, if After all, it has long been agreed that the I would like to risk telling you ever. She achieved only for an hour or arts define a person. Without the added about a promising high school sopho- nearly 100 percent in so. Not only was pressure, students would be able to tran- more. As an eighth grader, academics every class, yet her she able to truly learn sition from competitors to collaborators. balanced elegantly with friendships and effort proved futile. and explore, but also Colleges, in turn, would have to reset their a passion for the arts. Painting, photog- The weight of the rebuild friendships algorithms to judge the whole person. raphy, dance and even knitting begged college-level course and collaborate. Cre- Student athletes and artists could stop try- for attention. Athletically, the exhila- dwarfed her elective. ativity blossomed ing to beat the system, and start becom- ration of basketball and running meld- Then came out of the rubble ing the collaborators our world needs. ed her imagination with competition. sophomore year. of her lost interest. Our second solution would re- As an incoming freshman, our Our little worka- The teacher quire a curricular change. Honors art student became conflicted. While witness- holic had just come off a summer of in- mentored our youngster to enter a pho- classes could be offered at every school. ing her older brother vie for the attention tense SAT preparation, another yardstick tography contest, which she subsequent- For example, Creative Photography class of prestigious colleges, she had gleaned used by our institutions of higher educa- ly won. She was even interviewed about could be divided into two types of students: the importance of class rank. Advanced, tion. As her brother began his applica- her inspiration on National Public Radio. those looking for a more basic understand- weighted courses would surely put her tions, college planning was now fully on This experience was monumental. When ing, and those seeking more immersion in near the top of her class, yet she knew this her radar. Elite colleges clearly valued queried by the radio host if other art class- the subject. This would allow students to would sadly sacrifice the fine arts. She stellar SAT scores and a number one or es piqued her interest, she embarrassing- pursue their interests, while not sacrificing did request Creative Photography as her two class rank. She was determined to ly divulged why this would be her first, their weighted grade point and class rank. elective, but was denied, as upperclass- get there, even at the expense of her in- and last, high school art class. In order Now, I know what you are think- men took preference. The elective she terests. She requested the most rigorous to gain acceptance into ranked colleges, ing. “Woe is she; poor little girl has to was given was interesting, but not artistic. courses available, but her plan was foiled she must, once again, give up her love make a choice. Don’t we all have to Ambition brought perfect scores when she learned she must take an art of creativity. It was time to re-enter the make choices sooner or later?” The an- and athletic success. She resolved to pur- elective due to state mandate. Ironically, battlefield, wielding her pencil and- cal swer is no. Leonardo Da Vinci was a sue her arts outside school, but her rigor- she grudgingly chose Creative Photog- culator as weapons. She had become as scholar, inventor, artist and collaborator. ous schedule prevented it. Therefore, she raphy. She was appalled that she could ruthless as our system taught her to be. Our girl is not seeking sympathy… she decided to attack academics and revisit not take a higher weighted course. At this A piece of our girl runs through simply exemplifies what our system is art later. After all, what if she wants an point, art was just a figment of her past. most top students in our system. How is lacking. Interestingly, many of our high- academic career, but does not have the School was now a battlefield. one to choose as a 14-year-old? What if er-learning institutions now offer grade- class rank to attract a prestigious college? Top students were keenly aware of class her art is not good enough to put food on less courses and student-driven curricu- As freshman year was culminat- rank and did everything necessary to hold the table? She must give herself options. lums. They seek collaborative ingredients ing, her view began to blur. Peers had their place. Homework collaboration She understands the game and needs to to make delicious learning recipes. Yet, begun obsessing over weighted grade became a labyrinth; vague help became play it right. Giving up interests is per- these same institutions still judge their point averages and class rank. Curious, a strategy. Each hoped that if others fal- petuated by our system; it has always applicants with archaic measurements. our girl checked where she stood. She tered, they might spring ahead in the race been this way. Creativity and collab- Our rising junior continues to was dismayed to see her rank was third, for the silently-coveted junior year rank- oration are the first victims of this- un seek her value. She is taking all the despite achieving perfect scores. Some ing. The mentality was, “If you help, written statute. Nobody is talking about “right” classes; she does not feel she sleuthing revealed that other freshmen you might as well slit your own throat.” this dilemma… let alone trying to fix it. has a choice. As long as she is part of had been placed into a weighted, col- Then came Creative Photogra- Perhaps the most controversial, this game, she will play to win. Her lege-level course. She was unaware of phy. This nirvana did not have the kill- yet simplest solution, is to discontinue brother appears to have won. She cu- this option while picking freshman cours- or-be-killed vibe. Instead, collaboration class rankings. Students would be en- riously wonders what will come of us. es as an eighth grader. This infuriated was fostered by a true art master-teacher. couraged to take a healthy amount of MAY 2021 ARTSARTS && ENTERTAINMENTENTERTAINMENT 17 Riley’s Rad Reviews - Cobra Kai 1984 All-Valley Tournament, Johnny ple, and hurt people. Characters in Kreese became the cold person he is. By Riley Letendre has struggled to hold down a job and the show may come in and switch Another important thing to With the recent arrival of Cobra lead a good life. Daniel now owns sides, changing which morals they’re note is the long road Cobra Kai has Kai’s season 3 to Netflix, it seems a successful car dealership and has aligned with. Or better yet, they cre- taken to reach mainstream populari- one of the 1980s’ most popular fran- a picture-perfect family of his own- ate their own side. There is no to- ty. Cobra Kai made its first two sea- chises is having a stronger come- the LaRusso/Lawrence dynamic now tally right, or totally wrong, which sons in partnership with YouTube back than ever. The series has re- the complete opposite of where they allows the audience to participate Red, a “B-level” streaming service. vived The Karate Kid trilogy in a started in The Karate Kid. Because in the rivalry- making your own While it grew a small following and more successful and meaningful of Daniel’s success, Johnny’s dis- call as to who was right, rather than was somewhat advertised, they strug- way than prior spin-offs and sequels. dain for him has only grown. Upon the showrunners doing it for you. gled for viewers since the service is The Karate Kid follows Dan- running into Daniel when he needs The creators bring back every char- so limited. After season two, You- iel LaRusso upon his move to Los his car repaired, Johnny is inspired acter they can, whether it be for pure- Tube decided not to renew them for a Angeles, or “the Valley,” as it is of- to “strike first,” one of the tenets of ly nostalgic purposes or for a reason third season. The production compa- ten referred to in the film. In the first Cobra Kai’s karate, and re-opens that’s more important to the story. I ny, Sony Pictures Entertainment, al- film, he struggles in school with a the dojo for a new set of students. don’t want to spoil the special guests lowed for a third season to be filmed group of bullies, led by karate dojo As the seasons go on, the series in season three, but we get some regardless, and following months of Cobra Kai’s star, Johnny Lawrence. creates a “next generation” of karate special guests from the sequel films. “shopping around,” the creators fi- That is, at least, until he befriends his rivalry between the characters’ chil- Before the new season, we get reap- nally struck a deal with Netflix. This maintenance man, Mr. Miyagi, who dren. Plots follow Daniel’s daughter, pearances from Daniel’s mother, Lu- allowed the series to have a new teaches him karate and becomes the Sam, Johnny’s estranged son, Robby, cille, and Johnny’s Cobra Kai friends home to release season 3, and be re- father figure that he had been missing Johnny’s star karate student, Miguel, from the first film. They harp on the newed for a fourth season. Since the in his life. series’s installation The conflict on Netflix, it has between grown in popular- Daniel and ity and is more of Johnny cul- a household name minates in than it was before. the All-Val- It’s no coin- ley Kara- cidence that Cobra te Tour- Kai has reached its nament, success when it has. where The Netflix release after his of the series came at now-signa- the end of the sum- ture “crane mer, a time where kick,” Dan- we were unsure iel is vic- of what the future torious. holds (as we still The are now) with the other films Coronavirus, poli- in the orig- tics, and everything inal trilogy, else going on in The Karate the world. The Ka- Kid Part II rate Kid, like most (1986) and 80s movies, is the The Karate product of a simpler Kid Part III time, and though it (1989), fol- showcases serious low Dan- conflicts, it still is iel through seen as a positive, other kara- inspirational film te-related to many. This series escapades. In Part II, he travels with and the other students in their do- nostalgia of the original movies a is a more honest look at life than the Mr. Miyagi to visit the family Miyagi jos, in the process blurring the lines lot, recreating or referencing scenes films, but carries on the message of left behind in Okinawa, Japan- unin- between good and evil and building from the film, but not to the point how being a good person can get you tentionally getting involved in anoth- intensity in their battle for morality. where it takes away from the story. farther in life, and that sometimes you er karate battle for honor, and another Though seen on the surface An interesting thing Cobra need to fight to get what you want. romance. Part III picks up with Dan- as purely entertaining films and Kai does is it delves into the back- Watching a series like Co- iel and Miyagi returning to Reseda an action-packed series, The Ka- story of several characters from the bra Kai is an amazing experience. and trying to move on from their prior rate Kid’s universe has a far larg- original films. We get to understand It has managed to bring a franchise karate battles. A down-and-out John er story to tell in its themes. Each why the characters are who they that was thought to be dead after two Kreese, the former sensei of Cobra film in the trilogy centers on- aba are- whether they have changed for poorly-received spin-offs (The Next Kai, is struggling with no students sic conflict between good and evil, better or worse. In season one, we Karate Kid (1994), a sequel, and The and with the help of his friend, Ter- or right and wrong- Daniel always get flashbacks to Johnny’s child- Karate Kid (2010), a remake) back ry Silver, forces Daniel to participate being the side of good or right. But hood- learning it wasn’t just a walk to life. While Cobra Kai may not be in the All-Valley to “defend his title” since Cobra Kai has entered the in the park. In season two, we learn the most appealing to teenagers, I en- against a new, more brutal Cobra Kai. mix, it turns these once-straight- about what happened to Daniel’s courage more teens to give it a try. Cobra Kai comes in to play forward themes on their head. father and how this has affected his It’s a good model for how a sequel 35 years after the All-Valley tourna- In the series, both Johnny life, as well as how Kreese, John- series should be done, and it provides ment and starts from the perspective and Daniel are seen as villains by ny’s former sensei, came to be down something for everyone with its 80s of a down-and-out Johnny Lawrence. different people. We see them both on his luck. And finally, in season nostalgia, comedy, action, and drama. In the years since his defeat in the do good and bad things, help peo- three, we come to understand how 18 ARTSARTS && ENTERTAINMENTENTERTAINMENT MAY 2021 Top 8 Worst People You Meet at Disney World By Haylen Irvan If you have ever been to a theme park, such as Disney, you know that thousands of people inhabit the park daily. At Walt Disney World in Orlan- do, FL, you are sure to see many differ- ent people. Here are some of the worst people you will find lurking through the “most magical place on Earth”.

1. The Photographer Yes, Disney World has hired photographers that are willing to snap a quick photo of you at any moment thanks to the PhotoPass program, how- ever, most people don’t know that there are other photographers around the park. They can be spotted leaning out of rides trying to get an up-close shot of the ani- matronics or sitting on someone’s shoul- ders to get that perfect picture of the castle. Just be careful with these guys, because it is likely you will end up in the background of at least 90% of their pho- tos. I think I’ll PhotoPASS on these folks. 4.The Regulars 6. The View Obstructors tually sell any alcoholic beverages. This 2. The Karen THE ACTUAL WORST. These You sat down at the Festival of means that these grown men WALKED The stereotypical “Karen” people are the reason Disney is not al- The Lion King show and you just got to the area after buying drinks some- makes appearances everywhere, but ways the happiest place on Earth. These the best seat in the house. You’re in the where else. No one drinks like Gaston! at Disney, Karen is in her prime. You are the annual pass holders that feel second row with a clear view of center will most likely see her at guest rela- entitled to everything the parks have stage, then a lady sits in the row in front 8. The Park Nerds tions demanding a refund or arguing to offer. Somehow they have every of you. No big deal, right? Tell that to the This is PRESTLEY IRVAN! with the workers about the overpriced fast pass, they’re always at the front of heaping pile of glitter, ribbons, and syn- Prestley is definitely a park nerd. Imag- chicken tenders. Karens are very easy to food lines, and they’re always selected thetic fur sitting on top of her head. I’m ine sitting on a rollercoaster and as soon spot. They are quickly cutting through to participate in the shows. Seriously, talking about her mickey ears. I’m telling as the big drop comes, the person next crowds and they are on a mission. Be how do they do it? They’re at the park you they become more and more elabo- to you says, “Did you know that if you sure to step out of her way to insure as soon as it opens and they leave right rate each year. Whether it’s mickey ears, put your arms up for the picture, the your safety and the other safety of when it closes. I guess the seaweed is a hat, or a headband, there are ALWAYS crossing track above could chop your guests. Much like Cruella DeVille, if always greener in somebody else’s lake. guests walking around with some- arms off? It actually happened to a man she doesn’t scare you, no evil thing will. thing guaranteed to block your view. in the early 2000s.” These people are a 5. The Birthday Pin People different breed. They know everything 3. The Matching Shirt Family Happy Birthday! NOT! Disney about the rides, attractions, shows, and The amount of times I have gives out free pins for guests visiting even the food. I live with a park nerd seen this is insane. It never fails, every Disney that are having an “extra-mag- and every day I hear about the history time I go to Disney, there is a family ical” trip. This includes but is not lim- of Disney World. Sometimes, travel- of at least 34 people and they all have ited to birthdays, anniversaries, gradu- ing with a human encyclopedia can be matching shirts. As if that isn’t bad ations, weddings, and even first timers. great, but it can also ruin some of the enough, they make sure you know who It wasn’t long before people began magic. My sister loves telling me about they are. Glittery letters usually display figuring out that the pins hold aspe- hidden wires and cables that help create “Favorite Grandson” or “Second Cous- cial ‘power’ at the parks. When I went 7. The Tipsy Tourists the magic at Disney. Needless to say, I in Greg Twice Removed”. Believe it or with my sister, as soon as the workers Believe it or not, the Disney stopped believing that anything was real not, it can get worse. There are also the Parks franchise does in fact sell alco- at age 4. Did you know that you can ride wedding parties with “Bridesmaid To holic beverages on the grounds. Guests Space Mountain with the lights on? This Be” shirts. Who asked? I don’t think who are 21 years of age or older are means that the track, beams, and cables a soul asked. Literally no one asked. allowed to purchase various alcoholic are all visible. The whole point of the Did I mention, no one asked? It tru- beverages such as their famous Orange ride is to feel like you are floating in ly is a small world after all because Mango Fire Margarita at EPCOT or space, not like you’re in a bright, stark these families are so big that they ba- perhaps a frozen Rum & Coke at Hol- room. Going to Disney World with a park sically make up 80% of the population. lywood Studios. For the most part, alco- nerd truly makes it a whole new world. hol can be purchased almost anywhere in Disney. Sometimes, guests have a bit too much fun and end up drinking at the parks all day. These tipsy tourists truly begin appearing when Disney World hosts their Food and Wine Festival. saw her birthday pin, we were given the One time, I was walking past Gaston’s opportunity to ride in the front row on Tavern in Magic Kingdom and I saw roller coasters and sit in optimal seating a group of men all gathered in a circle at the live shows. It wasn’t long before outside of the restaurant. They were people began figuring this out and now all singing the infamous song ‘Gaston’ there are people who either save the pins from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. It or just straight up lie to get them. I know was truly a sight to see. Most of them the Mad Hatter said you have 364 un- were barely able to stand up as they birthdays, but this seems a bit extreme. were leaning on each other. Oh and the worst part, Gaston’s Tavern doesn’t ac MAY 2021 ARTSARTS && ENTERTAINMENTENTERTAINMENT 19 How has TikTok Affected Fashion Trends? zo, Xobrooklynne, Ambar Driscoll, and By Isabella Portu Flo Simpson have a range of followers Tiktok was first launched in from 59,000 to 5.6 million. TikTok has September of 2017, and since then also been an incredibly important part of has gained a total of 800 million us- teaching the younger generations, about ers. Originally, TikTok was known as different parts of the world, and speaking Musical.ly, but the name was changed up about different issues minorities face. in order to have a fresh new start and Vintage Clothing better represent the people on the app. Vintage clothing and acces- TikTok has created a place where niche sories are coming back in full force. communities can spread their messag- Going between different eras, from the es, and speak to be heard by the great- 90’s to the 70’s, depending on the day, er population. This has caused quite and bringing back some of the most an impact on the music industry, and striking and inventive styles. Vintage more importantly, the fashion industry. styles are also becoming more read- Thrifting ily available with thrifting on the rise. An example of some trending outfits. Goodwill, upcycling, and on- TikTok has only been around line shops like Depop have become a E-boy/girl/person small businesses to reach a whole new for 4 years, versus other popular apps more common, sustainable, and cheaper Darker, more edgy clothing type of audience, and more customers like Facebook which has been out for way to find unique clothing. How has has come into popularity, with chok- than ever before. Several small busi- 17 years. Considering the impact Tik- the rise in thrifting affected the environ- ers, chains, and piercings becoming nesses such as Ellecreate have had Tok has had on various movements, like ment? Well, almost 10% of global emis- a necessary asset in many people’s their sales increase substantially short- Black Lives Matter or Protect the Arctic, sions come from the clothing industry, wardrobes. They are often unique, ly after joining TikTok and taking their TikTok has allowed these organizations but with thrifting on the rise, people with several trademarks being winged advertisements to the “for you” page. to get off of their feet, when it comes to are being more open to buying second liner, chain jewelry, and often a pair Spreading Culture funding, petitions, and helping organize hand clothing, as well as selling some of of Dr. Martens thrown in as well. Smaller minorities are coming protests. Imagine what kind of social and their own. With some of the more pop- -Kick-starting Sustainable Brands forward and showing off their culture, economic reform that could be achieved ular tiktokers, such as Charli D’Amelio, Tiktok is also a great marketing op- in new and inventive ways. As well as in the future with TikTok on the rise. making videos showing their thrifting portunity for many companies, and becoming a more body positive and ac- trips. This has greatly helped to relieve stores are able to show off their wares cepting space for people of all shapes social stigmas that surrounded thrifting. in a new, free, and cool way. It allows and sizes. Popular Tiktokers such as Liz- Southern Suspects

By: Laura Alvarado

Samantha Davies is the 25-year-old head detective for Jezebel

By: Reese Pawlowski Island Police Department. The island, a small and close-knit community known for it’s safety, is rocked by the murder of star quarterback Daniel Warsaw- de- scending into a frenzy. As the island en- ters into full-out chaos, it is up to Sam to figure out who did it, working against adversities presented by her standing in the police department, her inexpe- rience, age, and gender. As the pieces fall together nearly too perfectly, one must be left to wonder- is the island more dangerous than meets the eye?

By: Arlette Villela-Hernandez

By: Michelle Armas 20 SPORTSSPORTS MAY 2021 The Run to Success: MIA Track Team exercises normally consisting of doing By Emily Reisinger circuits, speed days, or figure eights. The race to success, the toss to suc- For students interested in joining track cess, or the jump to success. From run- in future years or those who are curious, ning, shot put, discus, long jump, high circuits are a series of pushups, burpees, jump, and more, track has something situps, lunges, squats, and laps, there are for everyone. Marco Island Acade- also speed days that change depending on my’s track team has made incredible the severity of the day or what was done progress throughout the past season. that day prior; speed days normally con- This year, the coaches are Coach Watt and sist of multiple 400-meters, 200-meters, Coach Jones, both college students who and sometimes 800-meters runs. Often, have shown great leadership in managing on the days before meets, there are pasta and planning trips, practices, and meets. dinners where the runners meet up at the Coach Jones is an MIA graduate in 2020 school and run down San Marco Road, and is now a freshman in college. Coach then they eat pasta to prepare for the Watt graduated in 2018 and is now at- meet the next day. This may change de- tending the University of Florida. Coach pending on the new coaches next year. Watt and Coach Jones both participated The track athletes at MIA mostly partic- in track and cross country, running long ipate in running events, but a small per- distance, when they attended MIA and centage of athletes participate in field were offered their coaching positions events, more specifically the long jump by the Athletics Director, Mrs. Roberts. and triple jump. Coach Jones and Coach When Coach Watt was asked what Watt worked to place runners in events her biggest takeaway from the previ- that they may have never tried to see if There were also other fantastic athletes who got to truly test their limits both ous season she stated, “For me as a they enjoy the event or not. They always from MIA competing in districts like mentally and physically. With more coach, the biggest takeaway was how help encourage the runners to do their best Kathryn Barry who ran the 300-meter students coming to MIA next year important it is for me to accept help and to PR (personal record) every race. hurdles, getting a time of 59 seconds, the track team will most likely grow from others…. Coaching track espe- For the majority of runners, districts are she also ran the 100-meter hurdles and and be able to welcome new compet- cially has so many moving parts and the last meet of the season unless they a 1600-meter run. Angel Barlett got 1 itors. With the new building coming, I really learned this season how valu- advance to regionals, which one runner, minute and 21 seconds for her 400-me- new opportunities arise. Marco Island able it is to have and accept that help.” Johnathan Watt, Coach Watt’s younger ter sprint. All of the other runners end- Academy’s sports department con- The track team practiced at Mackle Park brother, did. Watt made second place in ed their season on an extraordinarily tinues to make the future look bright. 5 days a week with optional Saturday the triple jump, advancing him to the re- high note at districts, giving it their all. practices. At practice this year, there gionals where he then placed 9th. This This season has been a phenomenal were a variety of different activities and is a large feat for such a small school. learning experience for many runners Marco Island Academy’s Sports 2020-2021